Tag: liverpool news

New Premier League club enter race for Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen

Liverpool are interested in a move for Bournemouth’s star defender Dean Huijsen, talkSPORT understands.

The 19-year-old centre back has shone on the south coast this season and just had his first Spain call-up after spending his youth career with the Netherlands.

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Huijsen has quickly become one of the most wanted defenders on the planetCredit: Getty

Linked to numerous European giants, the former Juventus and Roma defender has been put at the top of Real Madrid’s summer wishlist, according to MARCA.

Huijsen responded to the news by saying he was ‘flattered’ by links to Los Blancos who are understood to also have interest in Arsenal’s William Saliba.

However, Liverpool may well need Huijsen more and have more game time to offer, given that captain and key defender Virgil van Dijk is approaching free agent status with a new contract nowhere to be seen.

Amsterdam-born Huijsen has a £50million release clause, and Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes previously worked with the Cherries.

Bournemouth left back Milos Kerkez is also on the Reds’ radar, having shone this season while Andy Robertson has struggled on Merseyside.

Hughes will have signed the Hungarian left back at Bournemouth, but not the Spanish defender.

The Cherries are well on course for their best ever season, and look set for a debut European campaign in 2025/26, with a Champions League berth still on the cards.

Andoni Iraola’s side have conceded the fifth fewest goals in the league, with their defence standing out.

Discussing Huijsen, the Basque coach said: “I didn’t know about his mentality because when you sign someone that is 19, you see, okay, it looks like he’s going to be a good player.

“But you are not sure if he’s ready to perform straight away against the best opposition. That is what he’s facing in the Premier League.

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Van Dijk’s contract expires this summer and Konate’s in 2026, meaning a new centre-back may become a priorityCredit: AFP

“And he showed since the first day, I think he started playing the season against Forest. He played really well.

On his best attributes, Iraola said: “I think his mentality, his head.

“I think he’s confident. He is not afraid of marking any forward and I think he’s calm on the ball.

“He knows what he’s doing, he’s under control. Sometimes he will make mistakes like all the others, but there is always a reason for the things he does.

“And for someone that is 19, it’s really strange to find this at this level.”

Despite being on course for just their second league title in 35 years, Liverpool look set for a rebuild in the summer.

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Huijsen’s all-round game as a teenager has been exceptional

The club restructured their management and scouting department in the summer following the departure of Jurgen Klopp, and signed just one player in £14m Federico Chiesa from Juventus.

Speaking to the BBC in January, new head coach Arne Slot said: “I do know that in the background we are definitely working on strengthening the squad in the summer.

“That would mean, in my opinion, that we will be able to challenge for every trophy we play for.”

Van Dijk isn’t the only player whose contract is expiring in the summer, with Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold also approaching departures, the latter to Madrid.

Next summer Ibrahima Konate and Robertson also have contracts expiring, and fill the positions that Huijsen and Kerkez do at Bournemouth.

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March 20, 2025
Liverpool set to play friendly in Australia days after end of Premier League

Liverpool are set to jet off to Australia for a one-off friendly just days after the Premier League season comes to an end.

The Reds are expected to take on an A-League All-Stars team in front of 100,000 fans at Melbourne Cricket Ground following a gruelling campaign, where they can still clinch two major trophies despite their Champions League heartbreak.

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Liverpool were knocked out of the Champions League on Tuesday nightCredit: Getty

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Slot’s side will now travel to Australia as they won’t be in the Champions LeagueCredit: Offside via Getty

The Reds’ recent elimination at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain has cleared the way for a post-season trip Down Under following their final league fixture against Crystal Palace on May 25.

Should Arne Slot’s side lift the Premier League title, as many expect they will, a victory parade could be held in the streets of Liverpool on Monday May 26.

Their match against the All-Stars is set to take place just days later, coinciding with the A-League’s grand final festivities, which will end in the championship decider on the weekend of 31 May – the same weekend as the Champions League final.

Discussions between the Australian Professional Leagues and the Victorian government had explored the possibility of multiple European heavyweights coming to Melbourne.

However, scheduling around the Champions League final – which will be played at Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena on May 31 – proved a challenge.

Liverpool, the Premier League’s most-watched club in 2023/24 with a staggering 471million cumulative viewers, has always been the preferred option.

The club has a history of drawing massive crowds in Australia. A sold-out MCG crowd of 95,000 witnessed their 2-0 victory over Melbourne Victory in 2013.

In 2015, Liverpool played in front of 50,000 and 53,000 fans against Brisbane Roar – who were formerly managed by Anfield legend Robbie Fowler – and Adelaide United.

Their 2017 visit saw them defeat Sydney FC 3-0 in front of nearly 73,000 spectators at Stadium Australia.

Last year, the MCG hosted an exhibition match between Newcastle and Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham, attracting 78,419 fans.

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Newcastle played an exhibition match against the A-League All Stars in May

Newcastle triumphed in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw.

Two nights later, a youthful Newcastle side, featuring Socceroo Garang Kuol, suffered an 8-0 thrashing at the hands of the A-League All-Stars, coached by Patrick Kisnorbo.

This time, Liverpool is only expected to play a single match against the All-Stars.

With three Victorian clubs currently in the A-League’s top six, there’s also a strong chance that the league’s grand final will take place in Melbourne.

Liverpool are currently dominating the Premier League title race, sitting 15 points clear of Arsenal.

Their star-studded squad features Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah, Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk, and world-class Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker – all of which are global names for football fans.

Jason Cundy claims Liverpool ‘had it coming’ after crashing out of the Champions League Vs PSG

Despite their penalty shoot-out defeat to PSG bringing an end to their Champions League run, the Merseysiders are still in strong contention for two trophies this season.

Initially, a quadruple was on the cards with the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup all looking hopeful.

However, now it seems as though the league title is all but theirs, and the League Cup final against Newcastle on Sunday brings them their first chance at silverware.

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March 12, 2025
Troy Deeney defends himself against claims of Mohamed Salah ‘agenda’

Troy Deeney has defended himself against accusations that he holds an agenda against Liverpool star Mohamed Salah.

The former Watford striker has faced a backlash after his take on why Salah could be overlooked for the Ballon d’Or despite leading the Reds’ Premier League title charge with a staggering tally of goals and assists.

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Troy Deeney received criticism for his comments on Mo SalahCredit: talkSPORT

The Egyptian has directly contributed to over 50 goals this season – scoring 30 goals in 39 games in all competitions, while also providing 22 assists.

Unsurprisingly, Salah has been thrust into the mix for this year’s Ballon d’Or and many believe a successful end to the season with Liverpool could see the 32-year-old crowned the first African winner of the award since George Weah in 1995.

Deeney had previously gone on record saying he does not believe Salah is world class, although conceded the Egyptian is a contender to scoop the 2025 Golden Ball.

However, a clip of Deeney explaining why Salah might be overlooked for the gong has gathered traction online and triggered more than a few angry responses.

He said: “Salah wasn’t in the top ten in the African [Player of the Year] votes. I just feel like he’s harshly treated because when you watch Mo Salah, he’s great and his numbers are sensational but he doesn’t make you feel like a Thierry Henry or an Eden Hazard. That goes against him.

“His numbers are fantastic and his consistency is unbelievable, but at this moment in time he doesn’t make you give you that warm feeling inside, like: ‘Oh my God, look at how great and gracious this person is’.

“That is what unfortunately is holding him back.”

Deeney’s comments sparked a reaction from former footballer and passionate Liverpool fan Adebayo Akinfenwa, who responded in a video posted on his social media accounts.

“Where is this narrative that Mo Salah is not gracious?,” he said “We’re talking about current Mo Salah.

“What is not gracious about Mo Salah bringing down the ball from a 60-yard goal kick while a player’s marking him?

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Salah is in a league of his own this season having fired Liverpool to the cusp of the titleCredit: AFP

“What is not gracious about Mo Salah’s vision? What striker doesn’t miss chances, what striker doesn’t have a bad touch?

“Current Mo Salah, give him five chances and he finishes two, assists two and misses one. Right now, Mo Salah has to be the front runner for the Ballon d’Or.”

Speaking on talkSPORT on Friday, Deeney explained that the initial clip was not a criticism of Salah but rather what obstacles could get in the way of him winning the award.

“The big man is entitled to his opinion. He does what he does and he says what he says,” Deeney said of Akinfenwa.

“My point is, when I say gracious, there’s a very limited amount of people in your whole footballing career where you watch and you’re like, ‘Oh my God’.

“Eden Hazard in his pomp at Chelsea when he was dropping the shoulder and going past people, there were times you were just like, ‘How is he doing that?’

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Deeney says watching Salah doesn’t excite him like when he watched Hazard tear the Premier League apart in a Chelsea shirtCredit: AFP

“There are a lot of time where Salah can control a ball relatively easily, misses it and it runs out of play.

“There have been games this season where he’s been poor, scores and everyone forgets about it. That’s fine because that’s his job.”

“My opinion is I think he goes on to win it [Ballon d’Or], which is what I said in the actual podcast. I think he deserves to win it this year but the actual conversation was around why he was harshly treated.

“When you look at him, he doesn’t give you that, that’s just my opinion.

“I don’t have an agenda against Mo Salah. I think Salah’s going to win everything, he’s been excellent this year.

“But when I look at him he doesn’t give me that warm, fuzzy feeling.”

Troy Deeney doubles down on ‘world-class’ Mohamed Salah claim and names Liverpool star’s one weakness

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February 28, 2025
‘Too good’ – Richards pinpoints moment he knew Mo Salah would become a superstar

Micah Richards – talent scout?

The ex-Manchester City defender is adamant he knew how good Mohamed Salah was going to be before all of us.

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Salah’s heroics against City were another exclamation mark on an astonishing season

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Salah is in a league of his own this season, as are LiverpoolCredit: AFP

Salah added yet another goal and assist for Liverpool in a comfortable 2-0 win over Manchester City to put the Reds 11 points clear at the top of the Premier League.

Two more goal involvements make it 41 for the season (25 goals, 16 assists) and Salah is now just six more from the best-ever Premier League campaign.

Now widely considered an all-time great of English football, such a rise never looked possible during a failed 18-game stint at Chelsea from 2013 to 2014.

However, shortly after that, on loan at Fiorentina, then teammate Richards could tell how good the Egyptian kind was.

read more on mohamed salah

“We knew he was special though, even at Basel, when he went to Fiorentina, then at Roma,” Richards said after the match.

“It obviously didn’t work for him at Chelsea but when he came to the Premier League with Liverpool I just knew.”

With his fellow pundits showing some scepticism, Richards continued: “Honestly, there’s an interview where I say this player is too good for Fiorentina, we shouldn’t have him.

“He came there on loan and I just knew how special he was. His touch, his technique, how selfish he was in front of goal.

“We went to Juventus in the Coppa Italia and he ran for 40 or 50 yards against some of the best defenders in the league at the time, I just knew he was special.”

Salah is the current favourite to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or with Liverpool not just top in England, but they were the best team in the league phase of the Champions League, and have a Carabao Cup final date against Newcastle next month.

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Richards knew we were witnessing greatness back at Fiorentina

Comparing Salah to other greats on the list of best-ever seasons, Manchester United legend Roy Keane explained what Salah’s got that the likes of Thierry Henry, Luis Suarez and Didier Drogba also had.

“They’re all strikers, but we still class Salah as a winger,” he began. “I think if you’re going to be successful at any big club you do need that one world class player.

“You can have brilliant players around you, but whether it’s [Eric] Cantona, [Wayne] Rooney, [Cristiano] Ronaldo, you need that one player who’s almost ahead of everyone else to get you over the line and make the difference in tight games and Salah does that week-in, week-out.”

Jamie Carragher also gave his view, adding: “This is going to end up being the greatest season we’ve ever seen from an individual, I have no doubt about that.

“It’s not whether he finishes above those players numbers, it’s how far, and if he sets the bar so high that in the future nobody can get there again.

“We are seeing something special, this is an all-time season.”

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Salah’s on the verge of equalling his incredible first season at Liverpool where he scored at will

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Is that the title race done?

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February 23, 2025
Why Liverpool boss Slot is still on the touchline to face Man City despite red

Liverpool boss Arne Slot will still be on the touchline against Man City this Sunday despite recently receiving a red card.

The Dutchman was sent off in the aftermath of his side’s 2-2 draw with Everton in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.

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Liverpool boss Slot was one of four red cards on WednesdayCredit: Getty

Slot was among the people handed their marching orders by referee Michael Oliver after tensions flared following Everton‘s late equaliser.

Liverpool looked on course to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table after coming from behind thanks to goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah.

However, James Tarkowski’s thunderous 98th-minute strike earned the home side a share of the spoils to dent their rivals’ title bid.

The goal was awarded after lengthy VAR checks for a possible foul and an offside and also came after referee Oliver turned a blind eye to Salah being tripped on the edge of the Everton penalty area.

David Moyes‘ men duly came down the other end and found a vital equaliser, which left Slot infuriated on the touchline.

After the final whistle, the Reds boss shared a tense exchange and an angry handshake with Oliver, which led to the official brandishing a red card.

The Premier League later had a story on its website on Thursday suggesting that Slot would be consigned to the stands for two games.

Slot’s dismissal was said to have been for using ‘offensive, insulting, or abusive language’ – with his assistant Spike Hulshoff also sent off.

They said: “Liverpool head coach Arne Slot was dismissed at the end of the Merseyside derby for using offensive, insulting, or abusive language. He is handed a two-match touchline ban as a result.”

Despite this, that part of the story on Slot’s ban was deleted just an hour later to spark confusion over the 46-year-old’s suspension.

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This is how the statement on Slot’s suspension initially lookedCredit: Premier League

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It was removed quickly with a decision yet to be confimedCredit: Premier League

It was then confirmed last Friday that Everton, Liverpool, Slot, and his assistant were all charged by the FA.

A statement read: “It is alleged that both clubs failed to ensure their players and/or technical area occupants did not behave in an improper and/or provocative way following the final whistle.

“The Liverpool manager allegedly acted in an improper manner and/or used insulting and/or abusive words and/or behaviour towards both the match referee and an assistant referee after the match had finished.

“It is alleged that Liverpool’s assistant manager acted in an improper manner and/or used insulting and/or abusive words and/or behaviour towards a match official, which led to his dismissal.

“It is further alleged that he acted in an improper manner and/or used insulting and/or abusive words and/or behaviour towards a match official after being sent off.

“Everton, Liverpool, Arne Slot and Sipke Hulshoff have until next Wednesday, 19 February, to provide their respective responses.”

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Slot was left furious as Liverpool let their lead slip late onCredit: Getty

They have since provided those responses and accepted the charges.

But the matter is now with the FA who are yet to decide on the potential punishment for the pair.

A hearing will be taking place over the next few days to determine what is going to be handed out.

This has meant that despite the charges, Slot, who has already served a touchline ban this season, was still allowed on the touchline against Wolves last weekend and Aston Villa in midweek.

And he can remain in the dugout against Man City as he is yet to receive the ban for his red card.

Former Feyenoord gaffer Slot was previously absent for the Carabao Cup quarter-final win over Southampton in December.

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Ex-Everton man Heitinga could be tasked with the responsibility of maintaining Liverpool’s title bidCredit: Getty

He handed the reigns to Hulshoff for the 2-1 win against the Saints after accumulating three yellow cards in the Premier League.

When Slot and Hulshoff are to miss a game in the near future due to their midweek red cards, then John Heitinga may be given the nod.

The former Everton defender joined Slot’s Liverpool coaching staff last summer and even attracted managerial interest from West Brom.

The 41-year-old spent the previous season at West Ham as an assistant but left alongside now-Toffees manager Moyes.

Heitinga started his coaching career at boyhood club Ajax in 2017, shortly after retiring with them as a player.

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Arne Slot and Liverpool and Everton stars SENT OFF in chaotic scenes after derby

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February 23, 2025
Why Liverpool boss Slot is still on the touchline to face Man City despite red

Liverpool boss Arne Slot will still be on the touchline against Man City this Sunday despite receiving a red card over a week ago.

The Dutchman was sent off in the aftermath of his side’s 2-2 draw with Everton in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.

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Liverpool boss Slot was one of four red cards on WednesdayCredit: Getty

Slot was among the people handed their marching orders by referee Michael Oliver after tensions flared following Everton‘s late equaliser.

Liverpool looked on course to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table after coming from behind thanks to goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah.

However, James Tarkowski’s thunderous 98th-minute strike earned the home side a share of the spoils to dent their rivals’ title bid.

The goal was awarded after lengthy VAR checks for a possible foul and an offside and also came after referee Oliver turned a blind eye to Salah being tripped on the edge of the Everton penalty area.

David Moyes‘ men duly came down the other end and found a vital equaliser, which left Slot infuriated on the touchline.

After the final whistle, the Reds boss shared a tense exchange and an angry handshake with Oliver, which led to the official brandishing a red card.

The Premier League later had a story on its website on Thursday suggesting that Slot would be consigned to the stands for two games.

Slot’s dismissal was said to have been for using ‘offensive, insulting, or abusive language’ – with his assistant Spike Hulshoff also sent off.

They said: “Liverpool head coach Arne Slot was dismissed at the end of the Merseyside derby for using offensive, insulting, or abusive language. He is handed a two-match touchline ban as a result.”

Despite this, that part of the story on Slot’s ban was deleted just an hour later to spark confusion over the 46-year-old’s suspension.

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This is how the statement on Slot’s suspension initially lookedCredit: Premier League

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It was removed quickly with a decision yet to be confimedCredit: Premier League

It was then confirmed last Friday that Everton, Liverpool, Slot, and his assistant were all charged by the FA.

A statement read: “It is alleged that both clubs failed to ensure their players and/or technical area occupants did not behave in an improper and/or provocative way following the final whistle.

“The Liverpool manager allegedly acted in an improper manner and/or used insulting and/or abusive words and/or behaviour towards both the match referee and an assistant referee after the match had finished.

“It is alleged that Liverpool’s assistant manager acted in an improper manner and/or used insulting and/or abusive words and/or behaviour towards a match official, which led to his dismissal.

“It is further alleged that he acted in an improper manner and/or used insulting and/or abusive words and/or behaviour towards a match official after being sent off.

“Everton, Liverpool, Arne Slot and Sipke Hulshoff have until next Wednesday, 19 February, to provide their respective responses.”

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Slot was left furious as Liverpool let their lead slip late onCredit: Getty

They have since provided those responses and accepted the charges.

But the matter is now with the FA who are yet to decide on the potential punishment for the pair.

A hearing will be taking place over the next few days to determine what is going to be handed out.

This has meant that despite the charges, Slot, who has already served a touchline ban this season, was still allowed on the touchline against last weekend Wolves and Aston Villa in midweek.

And he can still be on the touchline against Man City as he is yet to receive the ban for his red card.

Former Feyenoord gaffer Slot was previously absent for the Carabao Cup quarter-final win over Southampton in December.

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Ex-Everton man Heitinga could be tasked with the responsibility of maintaining Liverpool’s title bidCredit: Getty

He handed the reigns to Hulshoff for the 2-1 win against the Saints after accumulating three yellow cards in the Premier League.

When Slot and Hulshoff are to miss a game in the near future due to their midweek red cards, then John Heitinga may be given the nod.

The former Everton defender joined Slot’s Liverpool coaching staff last summer and even attracted managerial interest from West Brom.

The 41-year-old spent the previous season at West Ham as an assistant but left alongside now-Toffees manager Moyes.

Heitinga started his coaching career at boyhood club Ajax in 2017, shortly after retiring with them as a player.

Arne Slot and Liverpool and Everton stars SENT OFF in chaotic scenes after derby

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February 21, 2025
Leaked message shows Palace boss call Liverpool target likened to Messi a**hole

Crystal Palace co-owner John Textor appears to be in hot water having reportedly called of one of his Lyon players an ‘a**hole’.

The American businessman, who has a 45 per cent stake in Palace, was caught slamming Liverpool-linked Rayan Cherki and his entourage.

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Cherki has regularly been linked with a Lyon exitCredit: Getty

Textor, who failed with a bid to buy fellow Premier League club Everton, is also the main shareholder of cash-strapped Lyon.

Highly-rated Cherki is among the most valuable players in the squad, with Liverpool said to be keeping tabs on a cut-price move.

The 21-year-old was the subject of strong transfer interest in the summer as he entered the final year of his contract, however, Lyon held firm over the attacker’s price tag.

In November, Textor warned suitors that Cherki will not be available for cheap, saying: “We lost €15million [£12.5m] from his potential sale [to Paris Saint-Germain] last summer, but now his value is way higher.

“He should stay in January, but it’s up to Rayan, as is always the case in football.”

Now, French outlet Foot Mercato have published a WhatsApp exchange said to be from Textor conducted at the start of the summer window.

The 59-year-old slammed Cherki and his entourage during supposed negotiations with Borussia Dortmund – who were credited with an interest in signing the player by reports in Germany last July.

Alleged messages from Textor to an unnamed rival European club president said: “It’s July 4th, and I’m still listening to this little a**hole who you would like to sign. Are you still interested?

“Dortmund has now spoken to us, for the first time, and I am happy to tell them to go f*** off… I just need to know that you still want the player. Thx.”

A follow-up response saw Textor reply: “Terrific… I think the kid is a good kid. I think his team of people are total a**holes. I will send him a message tonight that Dortmund can f*** off. Thx!”

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Leaked screenshots said to be from Textor went viralCredit: X @footmercato

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Textor has since confirmed he rejected offers for CherkiCredit: X @footmercato

Cherki was also linked with a summer transfer to Lyon’s domestic rivals PSG before a move to Dortmund collapsed.

Towards the end of the window, Fulham agreed a £17m deal with Lyon for the French U21 international only for him to reject the move.

He ultimately stayed put at Lyon and was reintegrated into the first-team squad – extending his contract until 2026 in September.

Cherki has since scored three goals and laid on a further three assists in 13 Ligue 1 appearances this term.

The club’s homegrown talent has also registered six goal contributions in as many Europa League games under Pierre Sage.

He was also part of France’s squad that scooped an Olympic silver medal at the Paris 2024 Games.

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Textor holds a 45 per cent stake in Crystal PalaceCredit: Getty

His progression has seen him compared to some of football’s greats, with a former OL president giving him the ultimate compliment.

“Cherki is comparable to (Lionel) Messi in terms of technical quality,” Jean-Michel Aulas told Téléfoot.

However, the playmaker himself recently revealed he has been following the example set by the Argentine’s nemesis.

Cherki said: “I had lots of idols but the one that I think is the best and the example to follow is Cristiano Ronaldo.

Manchester United and Liverpool target only has eyes for one club in January

“Regarding his work and his longevity, that is the example that you have to follow.”

Textor meanwhile has a 45 per cent stake in Palace through Eagle Football Group but has been trying to sell his shares since February.

He is vastly experienced in the world of football ownership – with Ligue 1 giants Lyon, Brazilian league leaders Botafogo and Belgium’s RWD Molenbeek also under his remit.

Textor is believed to have held talks over a bid for Championship side Watford, as reported by talkSPORT at the end of last year.

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January 13, 2025
Liverpool vs Manchester United will go ahead despite bad weather

Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Manchester United will go ahead on Sunday afternoon, it has been confirmed.

There were two meetings with fan safety a concern due to weather conditions in the region.

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Liverpool are set to host rivals Manchester United at Anfield later on SundayCredit: Getty

Rain, snow, and ice have blighted Liverpool and the North West in recent days.

And conditions on Sunday have seen gritters deployed in the area.

However it has been announced the game will take place as planned.

A statement read: “Today’s fixture against Manchester United will go ahead as planned. Two safety meetings were held earlier to assess the weather and travel conditions.

“We thank everyone involved in helping us to get this game on today. If you’re travelling to Anfield then please take extra care. We look forward to seeing you there.”

Earlier a statement from Liverpool on Sunday morning said: “A safety meeting was held this morning to assess the weather and travel conditions for today’s fixture against Manchester United at Anfield.

“At this stage the match is planned to go ahead as normal and every effort is being made to get the game on.

“A further safety meeting will take place again at midday to assess the latest conditions.

“We will update supporters just as soon as we can. Please take extra care out there, Reds.”

A post from Liverpool City Council added: “Our gritters are now out on their 3rd run since yesterday afternoon.

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Weather in Liverpool has been inclement in recent daysCredit: Getty

“If you have to travel in your car or van, please drive carefully.”

Liverpool will be keen for the clash to go ahead to avoid a fixture pile-up later in the season.

Arne Slot’s side already boast a game in hand over their Premier League title rivals following the postponement of the Merseyside derby last month.

Their scheduled clash with Everton at Goodison Park on December 7 was called off just hours before kick-off due to bad weather.

As it stands, it remains to be seen when that match will be added to the calendar – though it will likely be squeezed into a midweek encounter under the lights.

Another postponement today would cause added heartache for Liverpool who are still fighting in the Champions League and Carabao Cup, with their FA Cup clash with Accrington Stanley on the horizon.

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Liverpool have the chance to go eight points clear at the top of the table if their clash with United goes ahead

Should their game with United go ahead, Liverpool will have the chance to extend their lead at the top of the table to eight points.

Nearest challengers Arsenal were held to a 1-1 draw away at Brighton on Saturday.

Meanwhile Chelsea – currently nine points the Reds – drew 1-1 against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

Liverpool boast a brilliant record against United at Anfield having failed to taste defeat on their home ground since 2016.

Incredibly, Liverpool haven’t conceded against the Red Devils since their 3-1 victory in December 2018 – which led to the sacking of Jose Mourinho.

Since January 2016, Liverpool have scooped four victories and have been held to four goalless draws.

Liverpool Fan insists Trent Alexander Arnold is average and wants him to leave Liverpool

One of those stalemates came in their last Anfield meeting, with Slot hoping his side will emerge victorious this time around.

Liverpool will also be desperate to inflict more woe on United, who have suffered five Premier League defeats in their opening eight games under boss Ruben Amorim.

United, who sit seven points above the relegation zone in 14th spot, have also lost their last four matches in all competitions.

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January 5, 2025
Liverpool star could leave just five months after arriving

Federico Chiesa continues to be linked with an early exit from Liverpool with reports claiming the Italian is eyeing a return home.

The 27-year-old was the only new arrival under Arne Slot this summer but has made just four appearances for the Reds in five months.

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Chiesa has featured just once since the start of September due to injuryCredit: Getty

Chiesa moved to Anfield on deadline day on a cut-price deal having been frozen out by his former club Juventus.

Slot’s only other activity in terms of incomings was an arrangement that will see Giorgi Mamardashvili arrive in 2025.

Joining for £10million rising to £12.5m, Chiesa’s transfer was similarly labelled as opportunistic for a winger now hampered by injuries.

According to reports in France, the deal hasn’t worked out and the player is already looking for a way out of Merseyside this winter.

Foot Mercato claim Chiesa is looking to reignite his career with a loan move back to Italy in order to gain some much-needed playing time.

Napoli are said to be the favourites to land the Euro 2020 winner but face competition from Inter Milan and his old club Fiorentina.

His wages will likely prove a sticking point in negotiations, with all three clubs needing Liverpool to cover part of his salary.

The outlet adds that Chiesa has been convinced by Italy head coach Luciano Spalletti that returning to Serie A would help him regain confidence and match fitness – with doubts over his spot in the national team.

Chiesa was once one of Europe’s most-highly rated prospects before suffering a devastating ACL injury in 2022.

His chances of hitting the ground running at Liverpool were hindered by his lack of pre-season after being shown the door by Juventus.

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Chiesa has only played one minute in the Champions League and featured in one Premier League match

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The winger was put on a specialized training programme after joiningCredit: AFP

Chiesa managed just 78 minutes across three Liverpool appearances – most of which were in the Carabao Cup – before yet another injury.

He did not play at all between September 25 and December 18 and was put on a specialized training programme to get him up to speed.

During this period, doubts over the forward’s long-term future first emerged but were emphatically dismissed by Liverpool boss Slot.

When asked about Chiesa’s future in October, Slot said: “[Parting ways with Chiesa] hasn’t gone through my mind at all. First and foremost is that he gets fit again and then we can see where he is.

“He missed pre-season [with Liverpool] and in pre-season [with Juventus] he was on low-intensity sessions as he had to train with three or four players separate from the group.

“Going from then to a high-intensity league, to a high-intensity playing style is difficult in general for every player, but especially if you had a pre-season like this.”

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Chiesa was one of the most sought-after young stars at FiorentinaCredit: Getty

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Chiesa was a thorn in England’s side in the Euro 2020 finalCredit: AFP

Chiesa finally made his comeback appearance during the 2-1 Carabao Cup win over Southampton before Christmas.

The Italy international was introduced at half-time at St Mary’s and completed the rest of the quarter-final victory.

On Chiesa’s performance on his return Slot added: “I saw ups and downs. I saw some really good moments and I saw some moments where I felt like, ‘OK, you can do better than this’.

“For me, that’s completely normal if a player’s been out for so long, plays his first game in five or six months probably (three months).”

New Liverpool signing Federico Chiesa reveals he has celebration of iconic Anfield goal scored by his father Enrico Chiesea framed in their family home

However, he has not figured in either of Liverpool’s two Premier League games since then.

Chiesa was absent from the 6-3 win at Tottenham due to illness while he was an unused substitute for Boxing Day’s triumph over Leicester.

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December 28, 2024
Simon Jordan reluctant to see David Coote gone despite ‘terrible judgment call’

Referee David Coote is now the talk of the Premier League, and former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan has had his say.

Coote made headlines worldwide when a video emerged online appearing to show him making derogatory comments about Liverpool and former manager Jurgen Klopp.

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David Coote is under investigation after calling Jurgen Klopp a c***Credit: Getty

The official, who oversaw the Reds 2-0 win over Aston Villa last time out, called the coach a ‘German c***’ and Liverpool ‘s***’.

Coote has since been suspended from his post while refereeing body the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) have launched an investigation.

Much of the talk revolves around whether Coote can officiate Liverpool games again, or even operate in the Premier League, with former Anfield great Danny Murphy saying he thinks the 42-year-old is ‘finished’ in the top flight.

Giving his thoughts on the matter, fellow talkSPORT host Jordan said: “This is what he’s invited upon himself. So he has to reap the particular whirlwind that he started spinning because he’s the one that opened his mouth and made a terrible judgement call.

“This isn’t an allegation. We’ve seen the video. Unless AI is involved, this is coming out of his mouth and this is what he said.

“Now, it’ll be interesting to see how he can find his way through this because the inherent responsibility will have to be on him.

“Howard Webb [PGMOL head] didn’t invite this. Howard Webb doesn’t want this. He wants a refereeing fraternity that is beyond reproach. So he wants them to be in a situation where the noise is dialled down and he’s trying to establish this. And out of the ether comes one of his elite referees making childish, immature, unprofessional observations.

“Can he redeem himself? Can he find his way back? Should he be dropped into the EFL? And people say, well, if you get punished in the Premier League, is it any less valuable in the EFL? You get the castles from the Premier League? I don’t know. But should a man lose his career over some stupid observations? I’m reluctant to suggest that should be the case.”

Liverpool as a club are yet to respond to the video, and Jordan thinks they may be best to stay put given what’s happened.

Asked how he would have responded as Palace’s chairman, he said: “My reaction to it now would be to believe that I would be objective and go, let the PGMOL deal with it. That’s their job, that’s their problem, they’ve created this situation, get on with doing your jobs. I’ve got a football club to run.

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Coote was last in action at Anfield over the weekend but his future could now be in doubtCredit: Getty

“But I also know how tribal you are when you’re indexed and inside the bubble and so you can’t help but feel that the evidence that you’ve heard and seen about decisions that you were party to as the owner of the football club and watched and you thought, well that’s a bit strong, that’s not right.

“You will be sucked into that narrative and ultimately feel a certain way about it. Look, I’d like to think I’d be objective and let the course of action unfold around this rather foolish fellow’s observations.”

PGMOL head Webb is now in a difficult position, having taken a very public approach to his job as refereeing head.

The former official hosts a show with Michael Owen where he discusses refereeing incidents, while he’s also known to travel to clubs and publicly apologise for botched calls.

When asked if he would call Webb to discuss the story, Jordan responded: “I don’t think I would, I don’t know what I’d achieve by doing it.

“If I’m playing to the gallery, if I’m going to do an interview with the local press in Liverpool, telling them how offended I am on behalf of them.

“Or I look at it and go, you’re a bloody fool, you’ve said stupid things and you’re going to reap the whirlwind of it.

“No doubt people are not going to stop until you’ve been forced to leave refereeing and your vocation and disappear into a third world country and referee over there perhaps, because people might forgive you there.

“But the point is that I look at it and say, what would be the point of discussing it? Besides, what am I going to do with it?

“Am I going to pick up the phone to Howard and say, I think that’s unacceptable? Howard doesn’t need to be told what’s come out of that guy’s mouth is unacceptable.”

Video emerges appearing to show Premier League referee David Coote making foul-mouthed comments about Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp

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November 12, 2024