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Tag: TALKING POINTS

  • Hero’s recall amid injury carnage, with Socceroos already in China’s head — Talking Pts

    Hero’s recall amid injury carnage, with Socceroos already in China’s head — Talking Pts

    The biggest moment of the Socceroos 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign has arrived.

    Weren’t we there five days ago? Yep, all of Australia’s remaining three games in the third round are likely to be played with an all-or-nothing undercurrent.

    Next up, China in Hangzhou tonight (10pm AEDT kick off) and once again it is must win.

    PROJECTING CALM WHILE THE STAKES ARE HIGH

    Milos Degenek made his first appearance for the Socceroos in 528 days last week when he was sent on as a second half substitute against Indonesia in Sydney.

    The versatile defender, now with 46 caps to his name, is tailor made to handle the eve of a match like the one that looms against China.

    Usually, a player guaranteed to feature in the game would accompany coach Tony Popovic to the final press conference. Degenek might just be in line for cap number 47 given his presence in-front of a packed media room or maybe he was sent to handle questions about pressure like Roger Federer used to hit a cross-court backhand or Ricky Ponting a pull shot.

    Those who have followed Degenek’s journey in life and football would’ve known what was coming when he was asked about the magnitude of the game. His perspective is shaped by the testing route his family took to even get to Australia in the first place from Croatia. The 30-year-old has told stories of a childhood spent dodging bombs in underground bunkers.

    “I think there’s no pressure. Pressure is something that when you wake up in the morning and you have to provide food for your family; that’s pressure. This is just joy and love,” said Degenek.

    “The fact that we do this, we’re very grateful and we’re very happy to be able to play in games like this that are of very high importance.”

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    The ‘kick up the backside’ behind Socceroo’s revival as European form sparks key WC qualies acts

    Wake-up call sparks forgotten ace’s return; Poppa masterstroke as exiled star fires — Talking Pts

    Two-minute, two-goal blitz sparks key win for Socceroos’ World Cup qualifying hopes

    Mitchell Duke of the Socceroos heads the ball against Saudi Arabia.Source: Getty Images

    FITNESS OF THE SQUAD

    Popovic has 25 fit and healthy players to choose from.

    Strikers Adam Taggart (groin) and Kusini Yengi (hamstring) were left behind in Sydney and they’ve since returned to the Perth Glory and Portsmouth in England respectively.

    Mitch Duke was recalled to the squad at short notice after initially missing selection due to a lack of game time and goals at Japanese side Machida Zelvia, while Western Sydney Wanderers forward Brandon Borrello was sent on when Taggart was substituted at half-time against Indonesia.

    Popovic was giving little away when asked about the make-up of his strike force.

    “Mitch has come in. He’s looking good, he looks sharp and well. He’s very accustomed to the Socceroos shirt and what’s required so he’s fitted in easily,” he said.

    “We have options for [tonight] in that striker position and we have some ideas that the players are aware of.”

    SET PIECE PSYCHOLOGY

    The Socceroos scored two goals from corners against Indonesia and in the psychology stakes, defender Cameron Burgess believes that could help Australia before a ball has even been kicked in Hangzhou.

    Australian players had been used to running around the region and using their size and strength to dominate set pieces. The Socceroos scored four set piece goals from six games in the second round of World Cup qualifying. One came in each of the first four outings.

    It has led to a quirk where injured centre back Harry Souttar has the equal fourth most goals of any Socceroo that is still playing professionally. Only Mathew Leckie (14), Jackson Irvine (13) and Mitch Duke (12) have more. The defender is level on 11-goals with Jamie Maclaren. But Australia had only scored one goal from a set piece from its last eight World Cup qualifiers prior to kick off against Indonesia at Allianz Stadium on Thursday night. Lewis Miller and Irvine both nodding home from corners signalled that a key weapon in the side’s arsenal was firing again.

    “If you look across world football, set pieces play a massive part in the game,” said Burgess.

    “They’re a huge weapon and we see it as such, and then you have the psychological factor where, if you’re scoring goals from set-pieces, you’re going up with that extra little thing in the back of your mind that we can score off this and then the opposition feel the same way.”

    The 1.94m Burgess, who plays for Ipswich Town in the Premier League, hopes China was paying attention to the rout of Indonesia and the way Australia cashed in on corners.

    “They’re obviously going to be worried about that I guess and that’s just human nature, that’s the psychological factors in how the game of football works. They’re huge weapons for us and we’ve always seen it that way and that’s something we definitely work on.”

    Craig Goodwin and Cameron Burgess of Australia celebrate a goal by teammate Lewis Miller against Indonesia.Source: Getty Images

    WHAT WILL CHINA BRING TO THE TABLE?

    The last time Australia played China was Popovic’s first match in charge. The new era got off to a shaky start with China scoring first at Adelaide Oval in October. That’s one of just six goals China has scored in seven games as the Socceroos recovered to win 3-1.

    Burgess believes Australia will have to ride out an early onslaught.

    “They came out firing and obviously got the goal as well. They’re a pretty direct team and look to do things quickly,” he said.

    “We’re expecting a fast start. The same as the other night really so we have improvements to make on that and hopefully we can start the game better than we did the other night.”

    The other night Burgess is referring to is the 15-minute period where Indonesia put Australia under immense pressure in Sydney; a period where they could easily have been 2-0 down and on the ropes. The fact the Socceroos recovered to win 5-1 showed maturity and character.

    While this game could follow a similar pattern – China sit in last place in group C and must win to have any hope of securing an automatic qualifying spot to the World Cup next year – Australia’s quality should see them through if they can take their chances like they did against Indonesia. And they will have their chances. China’s opponents have had an average of 13.71 shots per game during the third round and enjoyed 72% of possession.

    “They’re going to be coming out swinging,” said Burgess.

    “They’re playing at home in-front of what looks to be a big crowd as well. Under no illusions it is going to be a difficult task for us. We need to stamp our authority on the game and do what we can do to hurt them as well.”

    TIME FOR BURGESS TO LEAD THE BACKLINE

    Any side would struggle without the giant presence of Harry Souttar, but as the towering Socceroo rehabilitates a ruptured Achilles tendon, the responsibility for organising the central defensive trio is likely to fall on the broad shoulders of Burgess again.

    “I think I put that leadership pressure on myself a little bit anyway,” said Burgess.

    “I’ve been doing that for a number of years. I think it comes with age and experience.”

    Popovic wasn’t happy with Australia’s backline against Indonesia. He felt they “weren’t great,” on edge and “a little bit sloppy.”

    Burgess has struggled for consistent game time at Ipswich this season and while his timing and movement looked a little off initially against Indonesia, he insists he still feels sharp. Burgess’ 11 Premier League appearances have included minutes against Manchester City, Nottingham Forest, Tottenham and Manchester United to name a few. A similar situation faced good mate Souttar last season, who was limited to four games in all competitions at Leicester but enjoyed the continued confidence of former Socceroos boss Graham Arnold. Burgess is hoping the national team can also offer him refuge.

    “It’s not great not playing. I’d love to be playing every minute of every game as would everyone. However, the one upside is how hard we train there,” said Burgess of life at a top flight club.

    “You get a real buzz because you’re here to play games. When you do get the chance to play it’s a great feeling. So, coming into camp to try and play minutes and help the team you get that adrenaline buzz.”

    Socceroos coach Tony Popovic.Source: Getty Images

    THE STATE OF PLAY

    Australia sits second in group C behind Japan. Three points against China will see them stay there and allow the side to prepare for the final window in June against Japan and Saudi Arabia with confidence.

    The Socceroos are on 10 points with Saudi Arabia on nine and the chasing pack of Indonesia, Bahrain and China on six.

    The reward for finishing first or second in the group is a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

    Third and fourth from each of the three groups progress to the fourth round and will be split into two groups of three. The group winners there also automatically qualify for the expanded 48 team tournament.

    The runners-up of each of those groups advance to the fifth round for a home and away showdown. The winner advances to an inter confederation play-off for the final spot at USA, Canada and Mexico.

    The fourth and fifth rounds are appointments the Socceroos are desperate to avoid.

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  • Poppa masterstroke as exiled star fires; wake-up call behind forgotten prodigy’s return: Talking Pts

    Poppa masterstroke as exiled star fires; wake-up call behind forgotten prodigy’s return: Talking Pts

    The Socceroos might’ve finished 5-1 winners against Indonesia in their crucial World Cup qualifier in Sydney and taken a giant step towards automatic qualification for next year’s World Cup in North America, but coach Tony Popovic made it clear there’s still plenty of room for his side to improve describing the performance as “solid but it wasn’t great.”

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    Goals to Martin Boyle, Nishan Velupillay, Lewis Miller and a double from Jackson Irvine send Australia to China with three vital points in the bag and full of confidence, but all too aware that its job half done when it comes to jumping the hurdles this international window presented.

    The mental resilience the side showed to escape unscathed – albeit with some fortune – from a tricky 15-minute opening period is also a sign of growth as is a welcome surge in the way chances were finally converted into goals. This result bloats Australia’s goal difference column too and that could be one less thing to worry about come the final matchday of round three in June.

    It wasn’t all good news though with Martin Boyle and Adam Taggart coming off at halftime. Popovic revealing post-game that both have fitness concerns.

    OMINOUS SIGN BEFORE A BALL WAS KICKED

    A crowd of 35,241 packed into the Sydney Football Stadium and the Indonesian fans not only made their presence felt but had the decibel reader reaching its upper limits.

    The Indonesian national anthem was greeted with full voice by those in red and more than one Socceroos player turned to look at the raucous away end. It did not sound,

    look or feel like a Socceroos home game until the goals started flying in.

    Remarkably, the Team Garuda faithful were still chanting at 5-1 down in the second half.

    “It’s part of football and it’s what we love about it, that teams can come away from home and bring that energy and atmosphere,” midfielder Jackson Irvine said.

    “I thought our fans were equally brilliant and pushed us in the key moments of the game and gave us that extra leg up probably when we needed it.”

    A TALE OF TWO PENALTIES

    Perspective is in the eye of what colour jersey you were wearing.

    The decision to award Indonesia a penalty in the seventh minute after the Brisbane Roar’s Rafael Struick was ruled to have been fouled by the recalled Kye Rowles was

    contentious through an Australians lens, but while it was on the softer side it was the right call.

    Kevin Diks dulled the debate by hitting the woodwork. A sprawling Mat Ryan guessed the right way in any case and might’ve saved it.

    Indonesia coach Patrick Kluivert, in his first match in charge, believed his side struggled to shrug off that setback.

    “If you shoot the penalty in it would be a totally different match of course,” Kluivert said.

    “From that moment we changed something in our minds.

    “We had a grip of the game. I think that we played better than Australia.

    “If you score 1-0, I’m sure it will be a totally different game.”

    10-minutes later Australia was sent to the spot after Nathan Tjoe-A-On pulled off a tackle on Lewis Miller in the box that looked more like something James Tedesco would execute on this ground in a Roosters jersey. Boyle did the honours from the spot.

    The goal helped calm the nerves after the Socceroos were let off the hook just moments prior. The side looked far more settled from that point and Australia led 3-0 at the break thanks to two more goals from Velupillay and Irvine.

    “It’s the hardest I’ve been pressed in a home game in a long time,” Irvine said.

    “There was absolutely no time on the ball in the middle of the park.

    “Once we broke that pressure it looked like we were going to score every time we went through.”

    3-0! Socceroos dominant first half surge | 01:31

    POPPA PULLS THE RIGHT SELECTION CALLS

    This was not an easy squad to pick.

    Six regular starters were missing through injury and Popovic had key calls to make when it came to his starting wingers and striker.

    As Velupillay wheeled away to celebrate with the fans in the 20th minute he had fellow winger Martin Boyle and striker Adam Taggart to thank for the opportunity.

    Boyle’s pass found Taggart whose lunging effort resulted in Velupillay being able to run onto the ball and calmly slot Australia’s second.

    “It’s a special moment for the boy,” Popovic said.

    “Starting your first game, pressure, a stadium that’s full. It doesn’t come bigger than that.

    “When he looks back, he should be really proud of that.”

    This was the first time Boyle had seen minutes under Popovic after failing to get on the pitch in the November window against Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. 14-goals and 9

    assists in 36 games for Hibernian in Scotland made a compelling case for selection.

    Velupillay is working his way back into form after a nasty ankle injury suffered against Saudi Arabia in Melbourne. To start him in a game of this magnitude was bold. Taggart deserved his spot after five goals in his last 11-games for Perth Glory in the A-League but hadn’t even been picked in a squad by Popovic yet before this window.

    For a goal that released the pressure valve in this campaign to be created by two players who’d never featured under this manager and scored by one still not quite at

    top form domestically must be applauded.

    Unfortunately, Taggart and Boyle were both substituted at half time with potential fitness issues. Taggart appeared to feel for his groin multiple times just before the break. Asked if there was anything amiss with both players Popovic said “there could be.”

    “They both had a bit of a niggle, maybe Adam a little bit more than Martin Boyle.”

    “Adam was definitely coming off and Martin was a bit of a precaution.”

    IRVINE GOAL A FULL CIRCLE MOMENT

    Jackson Irvine is the heartbeat of the Socceroos midfield. His goals in the 34th and 90th minutes were the 12th and 13th of his international career and came on the same

    ground where he scored his first ever for Australia in 2017.

    “From a personal point of view a special night,” he said.

    “I never take it for granted being here and I haven’t played in this stadium since that night.”

    THE RETURN OF DANIEL ARZANI

    Arzani replaced Velupillay in the 72nd minute and was greeted by warm applause. It was his first appearance for Australia since a 26-minute spell in a World Cup qualifier

    against Bangladesh in June last year.

    His last minutes prior to that came against Kuwait in a friendly match in 2018. That was just before the anterior cruciate ligament tear on debut at Celtic that would change the trajectory of his then skyrocketing career.

    It took just two minutes for Popovic to call Arzani to the sideline for a chat after his introduction, but generally he worked hard in defence and looked lively in attack.

    All of this after Popovic told Arzani his effort in camp during the October international window last year “wasn’t good enough” and that his “level was really poor in

    training.”

    It appears to have been the wake-up call the 26-year-old – once dubbed the next big thing in Australian football – needed.

    Five months on from that camp and Arzani has impressed his mentor this time around. Popovic does not give out easy minutes even with Australia 4-0 up at the time.

    It was an impressive response from a player who can only enhance the fortunes of himself and his country with similar application.

    Socceroos calm ahead of crucial clashes | 01:56

    STATE OF THE PITCH

    There’d been concerns about the state of the Sydney Football Stadium pitch in the days prior to kick-off and those fears weren’t alleviated once the game got underway.

    Several players lost their footing or looked unsure on the ball. It was not ideal and hampered the fluidity of the game.

    “Tough pitch for the players,” Popovic said.

    “Very hard underneath and slippery on top. The players were in two minds. Half the players wore studs, and half the players had moulds. It was a difficult one for them tonight. It took a lot out of them.”

    MAT RYAN BACK TO HIS BEST ON AN HISTORIC NIGHT

    Lost in the euphoria of scoring five goals was the three incredible saves Mat Ryan pulled off between the sticks.

    On a night where the goalkeeper became the third most capped player in Socceroos history with 97, moving ahead of another former skipper in Lucas Neill and now only

    behind Mark Schwarzer with 109 and Tim Cahill on 108 appearances, Ryan was immense.

    He stopped Jay Idzes’ header from a freekick in the 5th minute, made a superb diving save to his left in the 53rd minute and another clutch reflex save down low to his right

    in the 84th minute.

    “I have to say I’m not surprised after seeing him when he came into camp,” Popovic said.

    “Just a different demeanour and that comes from playing.

    “You can see he’s full of confidence and he showed that when he came in. He was a real presence around the group and tonight he stood tall.”

    The fact the captain was dropped to the bench for the first three games of Popovic’s tenure now seems a distant memory. His move to Lens in France from Roma in Italy

    has been a masterstroke.

    Davidson hoping to re-ignite Roos career | 02:26

    ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT AT THE BACK

    Australia’s backline was hardest hit by the current run of injuries between November and March.

    Popovic picked Lewis Miller, Jason Geria, Cameron Burgess, Kye Rowles and Aziz Behich.

    Geria, Burgess and Rowles formed the central trio of that combination, and the coach made it clear there was plenty to work on. Indonesia’s goal was well taken, but the lead-up was scrappy.

    “The goal they scored probably summarised how we defended,” Popovic said.

    “They didn’t create, we gave them chances, we gave them the penalty, we gave them the goal as well.

    “Defensively we weren’t great, we were a little bit on edge, a little bit sloppy in our defending.”

    WHERE ARE THE SOCCEROOS AT WITH PROJECT POPPA AND WHAT’S NEXT?

    Project Poppa is progressing, but it’s far from the finished article. That’s not a bad thing, but just the reality of only being in the job for six-months.

    “I aim quite high,” Popovic said with a smile when asked how far along the side is when it comes to implementing his game style.

    “They’re not where we want to be, but that’s not a negative that’s a positive. They’ve taken strides forward and it’s not easy to do what they did tonight.”

    Popovic pointed to decision making as an area that needs work.

    “How do we identify quicker what is happening on the field?” he said.

    “That will happen with more games together.

    “I felt that this camp or this window of the first game is the first time I’ve felt in training and just around the hotel that this group is now starting to build into something.”

    Now, it’s off to China for their next qualifier on Tuesday night.

    Australia remains second in group C and in control of its own fate when it comes to securing automatic qualification for next year’s World Cup.

    That goal could be a maximum of three games away.

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  • Ange’s $26m transfer fix for Spurs; United star eyes exit as City collapses: PL Talking Pts

    Ange’s $26m transfer fix for Spurs; United star eyes exit as City collapses: PL Talking Pts

    Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs rollercoaster continues to roll on and he has an injury crisis on his hands that will force the North London club to hit the transfer market.

    Meanwhile, a United talisman could be on the move, while City’s woes continue on the other side of Manchester.

    Read below for all the latest Premier League talking points!

    WHY TOTTENHAM MUST HIT THE TRANSFER WINDOW IN JANUARY

    Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou was scathing in his assessment of Timo Werner, who arrived at the North London club in January 2024.

    The German winger is one of Tottenham’s most recent arrivals, and he was intended to provide depth, pace and energy to a depleted attacking line.

    Postecoglou pulled Werner from the field at halftime in a draw against Rangers, and was later asked about the player’s response to his comments.

    “I’ve got no time for that sort of stuff anymore. We’re in a fight here, collectively we’re in a fight. I’m not going to go around worrying about people’s bruised egos,” he said.

    Spurs’ biggest issue is their injury crisis, but his comments serve as a big message to the Tottenham squad.

    Postecoglou has been without a host of big-name players that make up their regular starting side.

    Guglielmo Vicario, Rodrigo Bentancur, Yves Bissouma, Heung-Min Son, Destiny Udogie, Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven have all been sidelined.

    So the former Celtic boss called upon teenagers Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall to start against their Scottish rivals.

    Ange Postecoglou, manager of Tottenham, looks on before the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Tottenham Hotspur FC at St Mary’s Stadium on December 15, 2024 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    “I’m pulling kids out of school. I literally am. I’m getting notes from their teachers saying young Lucas (Bergvall) has missed another day of school,” he said.

    With Spurs sitting in 10th and disappointing losses coming against Ipswich and Bournemouth in recent weeks, Postecoglou must hit the transfer market in January and it’s almost certain he will bring in defensive reinforcements.

    On the attacking front, South Korean winger Min-Hyeok Yang is set to arrive, having already signed a contract in July until 2030.

    However, he’s only 18-years-old and could take time to develop before he becomes a candidate to start, potentially getting minutes on the bench.

    In defence, according to Spanish outlet AS, Postecoglou is set to recruit Paraguayan defender Omar Alderete from Getafe in the La Liga.

    He is predominantly a centre back, but also can ply his trade off the left and he reportedly has a release clause said to be worth around $26 million AUD.

    Meanwhile, according to Football Insider, Abdukodir Khusanov, who plays for Lens in the Ligue 1, has also caught Postecoglou’s eye.

    He’s reportedly been scouted on multiple occasions by Spurs, and the 20-year-old is reportedly also the subject of interest from rival Premier League clubs, namely Newcastle United.

    Epic free kick sees draw for Bournemouth | 00:53

    UNITED SUPERSTAR ON THE OUTER IN ARMORIM REVOLUTION

    New Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim dropped Marcus Rashford ahead of the cross-town derby against Manchester City.

    The Red Devils secured a 2-1 win in that clash, and the 27-year-old’s time at the club could be coming to an end.

    It’d be a considerable move for Rashford, who made his debut at his boyhood club as an 18-year-old, joining United’s youth system at only seven.

    He’s played 287 games for the Red Devils, and now he’s openly admitted he believes it’s the right time to leave Old Trafford.

    “For me, personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps,” Rashford said to Henry Winter, a prominent football writer.

    “When I leave it’s going to be ‘no hard feelings.’ You’re not going to have any negative comments from me about Manchester United. That’s me as a person.

    “If I know that a situation is already bad I’m not going to make it worse. I’ve seen how other players have left in the past and I don’t want to be that person.

    “When I leave I’ll make a statement and it will be from me. It’s disheartening to be left out of a Derby, but it’s happened, we won the game so let’s move on.

    “It’s disappointing, but I’m also someone as I’ve got older I can deal with setbacks. What am I going to do about it? Sit there and cry about it. Or do my best the next time I’m available.”

    Rashford has been a heavily criticised figure during his time at United, revealing he believes he is “misunderstood”.

    “I’m halfway through my career. I don’t expect my peak to be now. I’ve had nine years so far in the Premier League and that’s taught me a lot, that’s helped me grow as a player and as a person. So I don’t have any regrets from the last nine years,” he said.

    “I have my own dreams. I’ve achieved parts of it. But I’m not at where I want to be. But the problem is when you get there, you create another thing.”

    The dangerous attacker will likely command a significant transfer fee ahead of a potential January move, but it’s shaping as a disappointing end for a figure once revered as the face of Manchester United.

    Marcus Rashford of Manchester United applauds the fans as he looks dejected after defeat to Nottingham Forest during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Nottingham Forest FC at Old Trafford on December 07, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    CITY’S WOES CONTINUE

    Winning four Premier League titles in-a-row is a staggering feat, and the drop off Manchester City are experienced has been forecast for years.

    But Pep Guardiola’s outfit are dropping to new lows in the run to Christmas, winning just one of their last 11 games.

    The Spanish super coach has won every trophy under the sun during his time in the sky blue side of Manchester, but as his continue to get beat on the pitch, Guardiola is showing signs of a coach under siege off it.

    “They implode on themselves, which is the reason why everybody says they’re fragile. Pep Guardiola’s reaction on the sideline, that all adds to it, and as players, you see everything,” former Socceroos goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer said to Optus Sport.

    “Everybody is seeing for the very first time a manager in Pep Guardiola being under such intense scrutiny now, questioning his ability to get themselves out of the situation.

    “Maybe there’s an element of… players seeing stuff from him that they’re not buying into anymore. Maybe finger pointing is happening.”

    Manchester City now sit nine points from the top of the Premier League ladder, and Guardiola himself even went as far as admitting he’s the one to blame for City’s woes after their 2-1 derby loss to United.

    “I’m the manager and I’m not good enough, simple as that. I have to find a way to talk to them, to train them in the way we need to play, to press the way we need to press. I’m not good enough. I’m not doing well. That is the truth,” he said.

    So what has gone wrong? Arsenal legend Thierry Henry believes his transfer decisions have put them in a vulnerable position.

    “We all know, it’s the first time and we’re allowed to say it, that we can challenge his decisions in the way of letting Cole Palmer go, Riyad Mahrez, Julian Alvarez,” Henry said on Sky Sports.

    “Ilkay Gundogan came back and it’s not the same Gundogan who scored 17 goals a season.

    “You’re missing those goals. Erling Haaland is scoring the same goals, a few less than in his first season but he’s doing what he does usually.

    “I’ve seen him miss sitters in every season but where are the goals of Mahrez, Alvarez or Kevin De Bruyne, Gundogan – where are those goals?”

    However, there could be light at the end of the tunnel and the French striker was of the belief if anyone could turn City’s fortunes around, it is Guardiola.

    “One thing I will say about this team, it’s the first time it’s happening like this to him in his career. Let’s not kill the guy or this team because of what’s happening,” he said.

    Ange’s Spurs strike in under 37 seconds | 01:11

    SET PIECES CARRYING ARSENAL’S ATTACKING WOES

    Arsenal have scored a league high eight goals of their total 29 from set pieces.

    That figure includes two penalties, but it raises a question — are Arsenal too reliant on dead ball situations?

    Overall, the Gunners attacking output has been down. They’ve scored 29 goals in 16 appearances in the 2024/25 season, compared to 33 and 40 at the same stage in campaigns.

    It’s also been more than three games since Kai Havertz scored Arsenal’s last goal from open play, which came against West Ham.

    Nicolas Jover is the man who has been credited with Arsenal’s success from set pieces, but dead ball scenarios alone won’t be able to spark a title resurgence.

    As it stands, Chelsea and Liverpool sit four and six points clear in first and second place, and Arsenal dropped crucial points in their last outing against Everton.

    For former Arsenal women’s player Karen Carney, Arteta’s side rely too heavily on the impact of Bukayo Saka.

    “They’re very right side dominant,” she said on Optus Sport.

    “[Teams] set up a game plan to eradicate that, and [apart from] being good from set pieces, then you’re thinking where else you’re going to get goals from.

    “The left side isn’t giving us the output that [they] want. And that’s why I’m saying if they don’t go and get someone for the left side, I think they won’t ever kick on to the levels where they want to get to.

    Nicolas Jover, Set-piece coach of Arsenal reacts during the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Arsenal FC at Craven Cottage on December 08, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    “Saka and Odegaard are their main guys, and if you block that, there is a problem. I think the rest of the team is built on really good physicality, and they’re a hard team to beat.”

    Meanwhile, Arsenal legend Thierry Henry echoed that opinion and labelled Arteta’s attacking style “predictable”, whilst admitting it is a positive sign to be scoring off set pieces.

    He compared the Gunners’ attack to that of Liverpool, explaining Saka has limited attacking options at his disposal beyond Martin Odegaard.

    “Think about Liverpool, when Mo Salah cuts inside, you have Joe Gomez, Diogo Jota, or [Darwin] Nunez running [on the left], or Conor Bradley sometimes on the inside running. Look at what Bukayo Saka has,” Henry said

    “But it’s predictable, we all know he’s going to play with [Martin] Odegaard, everyone sees that. Can you beat the line?

    “You can pass to Declan Rice and enjoy a quick three vs. two. That’s called creating, playing between the lines, attracting an opponent one way and going the other way to see what you can do.”

    While Arteta remained coy when speaking on potential transfers, Arsenal could target another strike option to command the left wing spot over Gabriel Martinelli.

    “The amount we generate in the match and how little we concede, I fully trust my players,” he said on Wednesday.

    Newcastle ace Alexander Isak has previously been linked with a move to the North London club, while former Premier League defender floated the idea of recruiting Dutch playmaker Xavi Simons.

    “For his size, he’s quite physical and he’s very good technically, so I believe he’s the type of player that would thrive in the Premier League,” Johnson said.

    “£66 million’s not too bad for a player that’s going to be knocking on the door for a starting place in the team.”

    UGLY WOLVES SCENES AS TENSIONS BOIL IN RELEGATION BATTLE

    The Wolves are in a relegation battle, and tensions are clearly running high in Wolverhampton.

    In their last two Premier League games they’ve been involved in post-match stoushes, with the latest coming after a 2-1 loss to Ipswich Town.

    Not only does the loss boost the chances of a relegation rival, it also gave them a three-point buffer from Wolverhampton who now sit in 19th place with only two wins.

    Gary O’Neil was sacked following the defeat, and Portuguese manager Vitor Pereira is in talks to replace him.

    But the real issue looks to be a lack of emotional control from the playing group.

    Rayan Ait-Nouri received a second yellow card after the final whistle, being walked down the tunnel by teammate Craig Dawson after a grapple with Ipswich’s Wes Burns.

    Meanwhile, striker Matheus Cunha pushed and shoved with a member of Ipswich’s coaching staff in staggering scenes.

    The latest incident came only days after Mario Lemina had the captaincy stripped off him after arguments between he and his teammates and coaching staff broke out.

    “We are under a lot of pressure,” O’Neil said.

    “I understand the players being emotional but we have to keep control better.”

    While O’Nell will no longer have to deal with the turmoil in the Wolves dressing room, it’s going to be a big ask to turn the club’s fortunes around.

    Only last season Wolverhampton were playing an entertaining brand of football, finishing in 14 with 13 wins.

    Last campaign saw Luton town finish in 18th place with 26 points as the highest-placed team to go down. So can Wolves conjure up 17 points in their remaining 22 games?

    The midlands club will likely experience a ‘new manager bounce’ when their next mentor arrives, but it’s a big ask.

    Liverpool escape with 10-man draw | 03:11

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  • Eddie Howe ‘under pressure’ with Brentford star tipped for elite move

    Eddie Howe ‘under pressure’ with Brentford star tipped for elite move

    Ruben Amorim’s honeymoon period at Manchester United may be over as he slipped to a worrying feat.

    Amorim oversaw United’s 3-2 loss to Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford, which condemned him to back-to-back losses for just the second time in his managerial career.

    9

    Ruben Amorim has now lost back-to-back fixtures in charge of Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty

    One of Amorim’s key men was partly to blame for the result, as he was one of a number of individuals named in talkSPORT duo Jamie O’Hara and Jason Cundy’s winners and losers from Saturday’s action.

    Winners

    Jhon Duran

    Jhon Duran was handed a rare start for Aston Villa and he made the most of it, as his goal proved to be the winner against Southampton.

    The Colombian proved to be a menace for the Saints’ backline and will hope to retain his spot in the starting lineup for Villa’s Champions League fixture against RB Leipzig on Tuesday.

    “He deserves to be in the winners this week,” Cundy said.

    “He takes his time, bides his time and I know he wasn’t happy a couple of weeks ago when he got pulled off in the Champions League but he got the all-important goal.

    “Villa weren’t great today, I thought that Southampton might have got something but Southampton are only heading one way.”

    Frank Lampard

    Granted, Frank Lampard‘s achievement may not have been part of the Premier League action, but it can’t go unnoticed.

    Lampard secured his first win as Coventry City boss

    9

    Lampard secured his first win as Coventry City bossCredit: Getty

    The 46-year-old picked up his first win as Coventry City manager and did it against Millwall at The Den.

    Coventry’s win also consigned Millwall to an unwanted 116-year first as it was the first time the latter had lost four-straight league games to the Sky Blues since they first faced off in 1908.

    Given Lampard’s West Ham and Chelsea ties, it makes the historic defeat all the more brutal.

    “Well done on his first win,” Cundy said.

    “I think he’s unbeaten so far as Coventry manager and they go up to the dizzy heights of 14th and just 10 off those play-off places.

    “He needed that and Millwall away, it’s a horrible place to go.”

    Will Lampard be able to lead Coventry on a play-offs charge?

    9

    Will Lampard be able to lead Coventry on a play-offs charge?Credit: Getty
    Mbeumo and Wissa have a combined tally of 18 Premier League goals

    9

    Mbeumo and Wissa have a combined tally of 18 Premier League goalsCredit: Getty

    Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa

    One of the most lethal double acts in the Premier League were at it again.

    Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa both got on the scoresheet in Brentford’s 4-2 win over Newcastle, with the former providing the assist for Kevin Shade’s 90th-minute strike.

    With their goals, Mbeumo and Wissa took their Premier League tally to nine each.

    “Brentford at home, of course they win and of course they score loads of goals,” Cundy said.

    “I’m kind of torn between Mbeumo and Wissa, so I’ll give it as a collective.

    Troy Deeney URGES Eddie Howe to win a trophy & elevate English managers to elite status

    “I like the pair of them – Mbeumo, I’m a big fan and if he carries on doing what he’s doing then the big dogs will be looking at him.

    “He’s definitely on the radar.”

    Losers

    Rob Jones

    Referee Rob Jones was the man who gave Rico Lewis his marching orders during Manchester City’s draw with Crystal Palace.

    Lewis received a second yellow for a tackle on Palace’s Trevoh Chalobah, but replays showed it was the latter who appeared to make first contact.

    Given it was a second yellow and not a straight red, the decision could not be reviewed by VAR.

    Upon seeing Lewis’ red card during the match, Cundy said: “The Rico Lewis second yellow card, I’m not having it mate. Okay. I’m not having it.

    Jones made the controversial decision to send Lewis off against Crystal Palace

    9

    Jones made the controversial decision to send Lewis off against Crystal PalaceCredit: Getty

    “I’ll tell you what, if football really wants to move down the track of improving VAR – this has bugged me for a while – a second yellow card for a red, why it cannot be looked at by VAR?

    “It is an absolute mystery.”

    So it should come as no surprise Jones found his way into Cundy’s losers.

    “I’m throwing a ref in there, mate,” Cundy said.

    “I’m throwing Rob Jones in there.

    “It’s just such a terrible decision.”

    Lewis' second yellow card has sparked a massive debate about VAR

    9

    Lewis’ second yellow card has sparked a massive debate about VARCredit: Premier League productions

    Eddie Howe

    The criticism is coming thick and fast for Howe as Newcastle’s winless streak extended to a fourth game with the 4-2 loss to Brentford.

    Newcastle’s defeat also left them five points off the top six, not an insurmountable gap but one Toon fans won’t be overly pleased with.

    “I don’t care what you say, he is under pressure,” O’Hara said.

    “They’re 12th in the table.”

    Cundy replied: “Under pressure seems harsh. OK, he’s under pressure. He’s under the spotlight.

    Can Howe turn Newcastle around, or is the season starting to slip away?

    9

    Can Howe turn Newcastle around, or is the season starting to slip away?Credit: Getty

    “People are looking at him and waiting to see what happens in the next couple of weeks.

    “When you’re under the spotlight, you’re under pressure. It’s Eddie watch.”

    Andre Onana

    The Manchester United goalkeeper was a late inclusion, but given his calamitous error against Nottingham Forest, it didn’t come as much of a surprise.

    Forest forward Morgan Gibbs-White took a shot from the edge of the box and it went straight in the direction of Onana.

    However, Onana misread the direction of Gibbs-White’s shot as he fell over to his right.

    It proved to be a costly action as Forest recorded a 3-2 win.

    Onana had a moment to forget against Nottingham Forest

    9

    Onana had a moment to forget against Nottingham ForestCredit: Sky Sports
    The United goalkeeper's howler proved to be costly

    9

    The United goalkeeper’s howler proved to be costly

    “He’s going in – what was he doing?” Cundy said.

    “He dives the opposite way and falls into his own goal with the ball.

    “He’s about three feet away from it in the end.

    O’Hara said: “It’s one of the worst saves I’ve ever seen – it wasn’t even a save because he missed the ball.”

    On the flipside of the result at Old Trafford, Chris Wood’s winner cemented him as Forest’s all-time Premier League goalscorer, with a tally of 25.

    Aston Villa earned their first clean sheet in eight games with the 1-0 win over Southampton.

    Mbeumo and Wissa’s brilliance inspired Brentford’s 4-2 win over Newcastle, with the four-goal haul placing the Bees as the league’s equal-top goalscorers.

    There was also meant to be the small matter of the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park, but the fixture was postponed due to Storm Darragh.

    Results from Saturday’s Premier League action

    Results from Saturday’s Premier League action

    Brentford 4-2 Newcastle

    Aston Villa 1-0 Southampton

    Crystal Palace 2-2 Manchester City

    Manchester United 2-3 Nottingham Forest

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  • Ruthless call puts stars on notice; moments that exposed Socceroos’ biggest issue: Talking Pts

    Ruthless call puts stars on notice; moments that exposed Socceroos’ biggest issue: Talking Pts

    Former Socceroos coach Graham Arnold tried to warn anyone who would listen.

    Qualifying for the 2026 World Cup wouldn’t be easy.

    Watch every ball of Australia v India LIVE & ad-break free during play in 4K on Kayo | New to Kayo? Get your first month for just $1. Limited time offer.

    FIFA’s decision to expand the tournament from 32 teams in Qatar to 48 in Canada, USA and Mexico made it a harder message to sell.

    After all, the Socceroos have qualified for the last five editions of football’s showpiece event. How on earth could Australia miss out with double the spots on offer through Asia?

    Arnold had raised the alarm time and again about the record amounts of investment being ploughed into national team programs across Asia – teams Australia had rolled through with relative ease in the past.

    His warning, in some respect, has come to fruition during this qualifying campaign.

    The Socceroos are enduring another rocky road to a World Cup. The latest speed bump in the route will come in Bahrain on Wednesday morning (AEDT) where Australia can either keep their fate in their own hands or face two agonisingly tense international windows next year.

    BAHRAIN PRESENTS A BIG CHANCE

    The Socceroos currently sit second in Group C during the third round of qualifying but have just one win to their name. No second placed side, in any of the other qualifying groups, has fewer victories.

    Second place presents the golden prize of automatic World Cup qualification come the final international window in June next year.

    The only reason they are still in charge of their own destiny is because other sides have continually let opportunities to take control of their own fate slip.

    Saudi Arabia, perceived from the outset as a fellow group heavyweight, like the Socceroos, have one win, three draws and one defeat.

    China, in fourth place, have one more victory to their name than Australia, but have lost three of their five qualifiers.

    The only pattern is that there isn’t one.

    Consistency, apart from Japan who sit seven points clear at the top, has been elusive across the board.

    Spurs star cops 7-game suspension | 00:42

    Under Tony Popovic there are signs the Socceroos are starting to find their rhythm. Since taking over in October he has secured five points from three games. It has been a solid, but not spectacular start.

    The game against Bahrain is must win; especially with Saudi Arabia taking on last placed Indonesia in Jakarta.

    The reality of their situation has breached the walls of the camp. Harry Souttar was short, but sharp when asked about it in his final appearance before the cameras prior to the match in Riffa.

    “Very important,” the giant centre back said.

    “Obviously you can see the table, apart from the leaders Japan, you see how tight it is. It’s a huge game for us and it’s one we’re going to try and do our best at to get the three points.”

    Australia, Saudi Arabia and China all enter this matchday on six points with Bahrain on five.

    The margins are slim.

    KEEP THE EMOTIONS IN CHECK

    Bahrain set the first dose of third phase drama in motion back in September.

    The world number 76 left the Gold Coast with a 1-0 win in what turned out to be Arnold’s second last game in charge after a six-year tenure.

    Bahrain not only frustrated the Socceroos via an 89th minute Souttar own goal, but also by staying on the turf for lengthy periods after any contact.

    Stand-in captain Jackson Irvine believes the side let it become “the story of the game” and the teams leadership group has vowed to not let their opponents get under their skin again.

    “Of course, you want to maintain that discipline and not let it rattle us away from our game, but at the same time, you don’t want to let teams get away with certain kinds of behaviour and you need to have each other’s backs,” Irvine said.

    “Probably in the first game against them, we didn’t find that balance well enough.

    That’s the biggest thing you want to avoid. You want that drama to not be the centre of the game. You want our performance to be the main focus.”

    England thrash Ireland to earn promotion | 00:53

    SOCCEROOS MUST BE RUTHLESS IN FRONT OF GOAL

    The Socceroos have taken 58-shots during the third round with 14 of those classified as on target. Yet, after five games, they’ve scored only four goals.

    Now, like most statistics, they can be misleading or largely irrelevant when placed in context.

    The Socceroos haven’t scored enough goals, but it’s clearly not through the number of shots being taken.

    58 in five games is a large number.

    What that statistic, and even shots on target fail to measure, is both the quality of the chances and ones that should’ve ended up in one column or the other but didn’t due to decision making.

    The Socceroos should’ve beaten Saudi Arabia in Melbourne on Thursday night and to avoid a repeat performance against Bahrain they need to find a ruthlessness in-front of goal.

    In Melbourne, Mitch Duke had a chance to shoot after a superb bit of pressing from Aiden O’Neill forced a turnover on the edge of the Saudi 18-yard box. Instead, the veteran striker decided to lay it off to Ajdin Hrustic who under hit his shot into the waiting hands of goalkeeper Ahmed Al-Kassar.

    Similarly, Brandon Borrello found himself through on goal and one-on-one with the goalkeeper in the 84th minute. The Western Sydney Wanderers forward opted to square it to Riley McGree instead of finishing the chance himself. McGree was thwarted by a scrambling defender.

    Those two moments were pivotal.

    “It’s probably when you look at them all together, it probably looks like we need to have that more clinical edge,” Irvine said.

    “Whether it’s someone taking more responsibility earlier without the hesitation or whether it’s squaring the ball in the right time for someone else to have an easier moment.

    “There’s no right or wrong answer. It’s just about making sure we find that clinical edge individually and collectively to be able to put the ball in the back of the net.”

    Craig Goodwin’s return from suspension should help their pursuit of goals.

    The 32-year-old has seven goals to his name for his country and five of those have come in the space of 10-appearances in 2024.

    Socceroos survive late scare v Saudi | 03:00

    FIX THE EARLY WOBBLES

    The team, by their own admission, have been poor in the first 20-minutes of games so far in the third round.

    A lack of possession and a low percentage of passes completed have been consistent themes.

    On occasion, it has come through their own doing while in other matches, an aggressive press from the opposition has induced multiple mistakes with the ball.

    It has left the side chasing games once they’ve composed themselves, in what has proved to be crucial time lost.

    Having a squad of 26 in Bahrain allows training to become match simulation.

    A particular area of focus, according to Irvine, has been playing out from the back under pressure. Whether Bahrain will be bold enough to pressure Australia so high up the pitch remains to be seen, but the Socceroos are bracing for that possibility given how effective it has been against them so far.

    “It is a question of sometimes the players on the pitch being able to identify solutions in those moments, about trying to find answers quicker,” he said.

    “That was the main focus of training yesterday. Especially in and around our box and being calm and trying to find solutions in those areas. It was a topic of conversation post-game after Saudi and we’ve looked at it this week.”

    RYAN BENCHING HAS PUT PLAYERS ON NOTICE

    One of Tony Popovic’s first tactical decisions was to drop long time goalkeeper and captain Mat Ryan to the bench and promote Aston Villa’s Joe Gauci in his place.

    Gauci, who has seen some gametime for Villa this season in the League Cup, has played the last three games for Australia. Ryan, who is yet to take the pitch for his new club Roma in Serie A, is enduring his longest ever run out of the starting side since becoming a mainstay in 2013.

    According to Irvine, Ryan’s demotion has proved anyone, no matter how entrenched they may seem in the side, is capable of being dropped.

    “It shows everybody how key your performances have to be and you have to be on it all the time to make sure you maintain your place in the team,” he said.

    Ryan is now 32 which is still relatively young for a goalkeeper and will no doubt continue to fight for his place.

    At the very least he’ll be an experienced sounding board for 24-year-old Gauci who is just taking his first steps at a large European club.

    That is a journey Ryan knows well.

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  • ‘Can’t carry on’: Fear Spurs will ‘turn’ on Ange; secret behind Reds re-boot: PL Talking Pts

    ‘Can’t carry on’: Fear Spurs will ‘turn’ on Ange; secret behind Reds re-boot: PL Talking Pts

    The Premier League is just over a quarter of the way through the 2024/25 season, and it’s been a mixed bag so far.

    Get all the latest football news, highlights and analysis delivered straight to your inbox with Fox Sports Sportmail. Sign up now!!!

    Arne Slot has his Liverpool outfit firing, and they’re fixed atop the ladder after 11 games, while their rivals Manchester United are rebuilding with a new manager, again.

    Elsewhere, Ange Postecoglou’s up and down campaign is continuing, while Manchester City slumpt to a career first under Pep Guardiola.

    Read below for the biggest Premier League Talking Points!

    ANGE’S SPURS ROLLERCOASTER CONTINUES

    It’s been and up and down season for Spurs, seesawing between brilliant victories and horror defeats, with the latest coming against Ipswich Town.

    Ange Postecoglou’s men conceded two first half goals and failed to chase down their opponents, despite Rodrigo Bentancur netting in the 69th minute.

    The defeat resulted in ugly scenes post-match, with Postecoglou stopping in the tunnel after a fan was said to have yelled at him, however it’s unclear what was said.

    Regardless, it’s a sign of a fan base that’s beginning to become frustrated, and in true Ange fashion he put the onus on himself.

    “It’s just down to me. I’m not getting consistent performances from the players,” he said to BBC post-match.

    “It’s something I need to address. I’m the person in charge so that’s usually the way it goes. I take responsibility when their performances don’t meet the levels that they should.”

    He also labelled his team “passive”, an interesting word considering the high line press that’s instilled by the manager, which sees his players constantly on the move.

    “There are different reasons (to why we lost). Today was a bit different to other times. We were way too passive.

    “If you give the opposition that much of a head start it takes a lot to claw it back.”

    What made Spurs’ loss even worse was it marked Ipswich’s first win upon return to the Premier League, their first victory in the top flight in 22 years.

    Tottenham have now lost five of their first 11 Premier League games, and went down to Galatasaray in their most recent Europa League tie.

    It’s fair to say Tottenham are out of the running for the title, sitting 12 points behind Liverpool despite Postecoglou’s success in second seasons at his past clubs.

    Spurs are yet to win two games in-a-row in the Premier League, and their season has been a true rollercoaster.

    For former midfielder Jamie O’Hara, there’s potential for the fans to begin to feel sour around Postecoglou’s position at the club, despite the red-hot start they enjoyed last season.

    “Spurs are all over the place at the back… defenders crossing over, not tracking runners,” he said on Sky Sports.

    “You watch it and go, so easy, so easy. That can’t carry on. Eventually the fans will turn. OK, we like exciting football, but we don’t want to come back from 2-0 down every week.”

    Tottenham fans will be desperate to finish in the Champions League placings, but their next run of five games will be a big test.

    Postecoglou’s men face Man City, Fulham, Bournemouth and Chelsea in the league before facing off against Roma in Europe.

    To stop his runaway train, Postecoglou will be desperate to some strong wins, and City could spark what could be a monumental comeback for his out of sorts outfit.

    EPL Wrap: Ipswich sink Ange’s Spurs | 02:55

    ARE ARSENAL OUT OF THE TITLE RACE?

    Over the past two seasons, it’s largely been a two-horse title race, with Manchester City the frontrunners and Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal trailing closely behind.

    However, with the emergence of Arne Slot’s Liverpool, and a horror run of results, the Gunners are quickly slipping out of contention.

    Arsenal are without a win in their last four Premier League games, dating back to a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth.

    They’ve also drawn with Liverpool, which could be considered a decent result, while going down to Newcastle and also sharing the spoils with Chelsea in their most recent fixture.

    Arsenal sit in fourth on the ladder, on 19 points equal with Chelsea, Nottingham Forest and Brighton — tallying five wins and four draws.

    At the same time last season, having played 11 games, Arteta’s side had won seven and drawn three, with only a single loss and five more competition points.

    They trailed eventual premiers City by only three points. This season they’re behind current leaders Liverpool by nine, a margin that could be considered a mountain too high.

    So where’s it gone wrong for a team that showed so much promise in their development towards a title? They have struggled to score goals without Martin Odegaard, who is clearly their most creative player in midfield.

    Injuries, namely to Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber, have also played a part alongside disciplinary issues including red cards to Rice, William Saliba and Leandro Trossard.

    Odegaard’s been sidelined since September, and only returned against Chelsea over the weekend, having scored only five goals across their last five Premier League games, whilst also conceding six.

    For former Bright boss Graham Potter, Odegaard’s presence is a huge bonus for Arteta’s side.

    “Especially with Odegaard missing, problems with centre-backs, build-up not as clean, Odegaard is huge miss from creative aspect,’ he said.

    “It’s not as simple as him being fit and playing 90 minutes but he gives confidence to everyone else.”

    Arsenal have also had the most red cards by a considerable margin since Boxing Day 2019, with 18 players being sent off.

    The next most being Wolves and Everton who have received 13 red cards each.

    But outside of those issues, after a horror run of results, former Premier League striker turned pundit Troy Deeney believes one more loss and the Gunners can kiss the title goodbye.

    “Lose one more time and I think Arsenal are out of it. They are going to have to beat Liverpool home and away and beat City as well,” he said.

    Arsenal’s Belgian midfielder #19 Leandro Trossard reacts after missing a late chance during the English Premier League football match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge in London on November 10, 2024. The game finished 1-1. (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP).Source: AFP

    HOW ARNE’S ‘SLOT’TED RIGHT IN

    It’s a tale as old as time itself. A new manager joins a Premier League club, struggle in their first season before the game plan embeds itself into the squad and they see the fruits of their labour.

    But not for Arne Slot, who has begun life at Liverpool with a bang and the Dutch manager is priming his side for a title charge in his first season in Merseyside.

    Liverpool are sitting five points clear of title favourites Manchester City after 11 games, winning nine and only losing once so far.

    In fact you have to go back to September 15th to find their last loss, going down to Nottingham Forest, who are having quite the season themselves.

    That result is the only time they’ve tasted defeat since the Premier League began, also enjoying a faultless Champions League campaign, having only conceded a single goals in ties with Bayer Leverkusen, RB Leipzeg, Bologna and AC Milan.

    So what’s the secret? Because Manchester United will be desperate for their new manager to have even half the success Slot’s had at Anfield so early in his tenure.

    For Slot, he believes his tactical approach wasn’t too far removed from Jurgen Klopp, the man who led Liverpool for a decade.

    “My expectations were not about the amount of wins or those kinds of things. When you come into a new club you want the team to play, as soon as they can, to the standards you want them to play, getting across your ideas as soon as possible,” Slot said on TNT Sports.

    “I inherited a team that did really well last season and for so many seasons before, so there was not a reason to change lots of things, just keep the things they do really well.

    “In general, I think the things Jurgen likes his team to do, and I like my team to do, is press really high. Sometimes in different formations, but the idea is the same – and we both like to score goals.”

    Liverpool were clearly a tasty outfit to take over, and the former Feyenoord boss has a staggering amount of talent at his disposal.

    Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk are world class, while the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ibrahim Konate, Luis Diaz, Alexis MacAllister, Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai and Diogo Jota are top tier Premier League players.

    However, each and every one of those were players signed by Klopp, and it’s often the case a manager wants to stamp his mark on his new club with signings.

    But instead, Slot’s used what he had at his disposal and Erik Ten Hag could potentially take some notes.

    No manager has won more points than Slot after their first 11 games, and Liverpool have only equalled their current total once. That year, the 2019/20 season, they won the title.

    Is that a sign of things to come? It sure looks that way.

    Liverpool’s Dutch manager Arne Slot (L) congratulates Liverpool’s French defender #05 Ibrahima Konate (C) after the English Premier League football match between Liverpool and Aston Villa at Anfield in Liverpool, north west England on November 9, 2024. Liverpool won the game 2-0. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP).Source: AFP

    CITY’S WOES CONTINUE… BUT CAN THEY BOUNCE BACK?

    Manchester City are one of the most dangerous teams in world football, and in recent years have been the most dominant force in England.

    But now Pep Guardiola’s men have lost fair games in-a-row. It’s the first time this has happened since 2006.

    That was two years before the club’s financial takeover and 10 years before Guardiola stepped foot in England as manager of the blue portion of Manchester.

    But what’s more is it’s the first time in the history of Guardiola’s career he’s lost four games on the trot. That’s quite staggering.

    Their most recent loss came against Brighton, while the remaining three saw the City powerhouse go down to Sporting Lisbon, Spurs and Bournemouth.

    All four teams are solid in their own right, but should have been light work for a team of City’s quality.

    Following the loss to Sporting, Bernardo Silva said his side were in a “dark place” and now

    Guardiola has been asked if the dynasty has came to an end.

    “It’s what the people want, right?” he said. “That’s normal — we won a lot. I would just like to have all the squad (available).”

    But City’s problems could simply come down to injuries, and the sheer amount of football they’ve played so far this year.

    Ballon d’Or winner Rodri is sidelined with an ACL injury, and he’s pivotal in the defensive midfield role.

    Ruben Dias, John Stones, Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake were all also unavailable against Brighton, while Jeremy Doku, Kyle Walker, Jack Grealish, Oscar Bobb and Kevin De Bruyne have also spent time sidelined.

    With that amount of key players injured, any team in almost any sport would hit a rough patch.

    “We cannot do it every three days, three days, four days, three days with the (injury) situation we have,” Guardiola said, before adding: “I would love to have the players (back).”

    Dias, Stones, Walker, Doku and Grealish are all due to return in the coming weeks, while De Bruyne’s fitness will only build after the Brighton tie.

    So with a host of big names nearing a return, City should be able to turn their current mess around. However, they’ve now got a five-point buffer to claw back on current ladder leaders Liverpool.

    Brighton comeback sinks Man City | 00:50

    HAVE CHELSEA FOUND THEIR SWEET SPOT?

    Chelsea have been a peculiar outfit for a number of years now, purchasing a host of players for big money whilst not being able to deliver.

    But now, under new manager Enzo Maresca, the Blues finally looked to have found a clear path and direction.

    Chelsea have lost only one of their last 10 games and sit in third on 19 points, and Maresca has done what his predecessors have been unable to do.

    He’s locked down a group of players he believes are his best, using them strictly in the Premier League and important games while youngsters and fringe players have been injected into their remaining Caraboa Cup and Conference League games.

    Instead of chopping and changing, and attempting to keep everyone happy, he’s stuck to his guns and players like Moises Caicedo, Levi Colwill, Nicolas Jackson and Wesley Fofana.

    Throw in the mix Cole Palmer, who is arguably the most in-form player in all of world football, and there’s finally some stability at Stamford Bridge after a long period of uncertainty.

    “When you look at that squad, you’re thinking how are they going to get any continuity?” Former Liverpool gun Michael Owen said on Optus Sport.

    “But he really has stuck to his guns, stuck to a group of players and he’s been pretty consistent with who’s been playing.

    “That’s exactly what the doctor ordered for Chelsea at this moment of time so it’s been impressive so far, the stability he’s brought, it’s exactly what Chelsea needed.”

    Meanwhile, club legend and former legend Frank Lampard also weighed in on Maresca’s tough stance, sticking with his group of preferred players.

    “I worked with that squad for a short time when I went back and they had 30 players which you would call frontline players, internationals, and it’s harder when you try and juggle it,” Lampard said.

    “You’re trying to keep everyone happy. Sometimes you do have to be a bit brutal and I think they got to a tipping point in the summer of, ‘this is the direction’.

    “Now the players that are the strong core of this team, I think now are going to develop without that problem.”

    Chelsea’s Portuguese midfielder #07 Pedro Neto (R) shoots to score their first goal during the English Premier League football match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge in London on November 10, 2024. (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP) /Source: AFP

    UNITED’S SHOPPING LIST IN AMORIM REVOLUTION

    Ruben Amorim is the man tasked with turning around Manchester United’s fortunes, and he is set to arrive at Old Trafford this week amid problems with his working visa.

    During his tenure at Sporting Lisbon, the Portuguese manager has implemented a 3-4-3 formation, but players are given a chance to roam.

    While his striker is the main man, the wingers outside of him are given a pass to slot in behind and fill gaps, becoming makeshift attacking midfielders.

    For goalkeeper Andre Onana, he believes his squad have what it takes to adapt to Amorim’s high intensity style of play.

    “It’s a different system but my teammates are all pragmatic. I think everyone here is capable of playing in each system so I don’t think this will be an issue for us,” he said to the BBC.

    “We have big players, they will step up.”

    Amorim himself also said: I know how I am going to play in the beginning, because you have to start with a structure that you know.

    “Then you will adapt with the players that you have, some injuries, or no injuries, what kind of players have the abilities to defend, attack, I will discover that in the next few weeks.

    “We don’t have a lot of time to train, so I have to show something that I know very well. You can take whatever you want from that.”

    So it’s fair to say Amorim will be implementing his tried and tested game plan, with Bruno Fernandes a perfect man to find gaps as his key No.10.

    Another position that Amorim will desperately need to strengthen is the right wing slot, considering how important his wingers are in his formation.

    Erik Ten Hang signed Brazilian Antony to fill that slot, however he’s endured a tough time at Old Trafford.

    According to Teamtalk, United are keen on the services of Lisbon’s rising star Geovany Quenda who has been a revelation under Amorim.

    Multiple clubs are also keen on his services, however the link to his former coach could be a crucial factor in any potential move for the 17-year-old.

    However, the incoming coach has poured cold water on any moves in January for Sporting players, despite also hinting Pedro Goncalves could be another target.

    The midfield gun has been a crucial figure under Amorim, and played a major role in the club’s pair of titles in recent years.

    United have also been linked with Swedish marksman Viktor Gyokeres, however he’s also a target of a whole host of worldwide big hitters.

    On the defensive end, reports emerging from Italy have claimed Amorim wants to recruit current Juventus captain Danilo, whose contract expires at the season’s end.

    He’s on the lookout for a new club, and the Italian giants could be enticed to sell him to get a return before his time ends.

    However, with Lenny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt being big money defensive signings this season, it remains to be seen whether more centre backs will be recruited.

    Sporting Lisbon’s Portuguese coach Ruben Amorim gestures during the Portuguese League football match between SC Braga and Sporting CP at the Municipal stadium of Braga on November 10, 2024. (Photo by Miguel RIOPA / AFP)Source: AFP

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  • Fury over ‘coward’ act as horror blow to shape title race; ‘narky’ Ange called out: Talking Pts

    Fury over ‘coward’ act as horror blow to shape title race; ‘narky’ Ange called out: Talking Pts

    Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was once City manager Pep Guardiola’s assistant and the respect between the two men has previously softened the battle for supremacy between the two sides.

    But after finishing second to City in each of the past two seasons, the Gunners were keen to make their mark on the champions.

    Kai Havertz barrelled into Rodri within seconds at the Etihad to set the tone for a bad-tempered tussle between the title favourites.

    Scroll down for more Premier League Talking Points!

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    Arsenal felt harshly treated when Leandro Trossard was sent off at the end of the first half for kicking the ball away, receiving a second yellow card.

    But as the visitors dug deep, tensions flared between the benches.

    Arsenal’s attempts to waste time drew the ire of City players, coaches and fans.

    Erling Haaland responded by throwing the ball at Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes’s head in celebration of City’s late equaliser — meaning they have still not been beaten at home since 2022.

    Haaland also sparked fiery post-game scenes with his post game remarks to Arteta, telling the coach to “stay humble, eh” before having heated words with Gabriel Jesus who he told to “get the f*** away” from him.

    “What you talking about? Get the f*** away from me you f***ing clown,” Haaland said before Arteta eventually difused the situation by pulling his players away.

    Haaland won’t face retrospective punishment for throwing the ball into the back of Gabriel’s head, although he is still under fire.

    “You know what really boiled me up properly? Haaland’s coward move – throwing the ball at Gabi’s head when he’s not looking, when his back is turned to him,” Arsenal legend Ian Wright wrote on Instagram.

    “It’s a coward’s move. Gabi would look you in the eye.

    “That’s what bothered me more than anything else. I thought you [Haaland] were bigger than that.”

    Erling Haaland sparked fiery post game scenes.Source: FOX SPORTS

    MAN CITY’S RODRI ‘OUT FOR SEASON’ AFTER ACL INJURY: REPORTS

    Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri could miss the rest of the season due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury, according to reports in Spain on Monday.

    The 28-year-old limped off during City’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday after going down holding his right knee.

    ESPN and Spanish sports daily Marca reported that tests on Monday have confirmed an ACL tear.

    Rodri’s loss would be a huge blow to City’s hopes of winning a fifth consecutive Premier League title and ambitions of reclaiming the Champions League.

    The former Atletico Madrid player has lost just one of his last 84 games for club and country.

    He has been touted as a potential Ballon d’Or winner this year after his influential role in City’s latest Premier League title and Spain’s success at Euro 2024.

    “Rodri is strong. He leaves the pitch in this action because he felt something, otherwise Rodri stays there,” City boss Pep Guardiola said after the Arsenal match.

    “He’s the best holding midfielder in the world, he is a potential Ballon d’Or winner. I would love for him to win (the Ballon d’Or).”

    City were already light in cover for Rodri and his absence leaves a gaping hole in the middle of Guardiola’s midfield.

    Mateo Kovacic has deputised in the holding midfield role early in the season as Rodri was bedded in slowly after his exertions in winning player of the tournament at Euro 2024.

    Just last week Rodri had warned leading players could go on strike over an ever-expanding schedule.

    He played over 5,000 minutes in 63 games for City and Spain last season. “I don’t know what’s going to happen, but it’s something that worries us because we are the guys that suffer,” he said on the increasing physical and mental demands placed on players.

    “Someone has to take care of us because we are the main characters of this, let’s say, sport, or business, whatever you want to call it.

    City face Watford in the League Cup on Tuesday, little over 48 hours after the Arsenal match.

    Rodri could miss the rest of the season due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury.Source: Getty Images

    ANGE ‘GETTING NARKIER BY THE GAME’

    Ange Postecoglou eased some pressure on his position at Tottenham after Spurs beat Brentford 3-1 following last week’s loss to bitter rivals Arsenal.

    Rumblings have been growing around the Australian’s job due to a poor start to the season, which has seen Spurs win just two of their opening five games, while they only snatched a late win over Championship side Coventry in the EFL Cup.

    Heading into the weekend, Postecoglou insisted it would take time to leave a successful mark on Tottenham, telling fans to “embrace the struggle”.

    Beating Brentford did little to lighten the mood of Postecoglou who cut an irritated figure postmatch as he was forced to take questions about goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario getting away with handling the ball outside the penalty area.

    EPL Wrap: Ange’s Spurs bounce back | 02:28

    “Okay, look I guess we were lucky to get the result,” a clearly irritated Postecoglou said in a sarcastic tone.

    There’s little doubt Postecoglou would’ve preferred the press conference to focus around Tottenham’s improved performance, and the scintillating football the club is capable of under his mentorship.

    Instead, he appears to be growing increasingly frustrated, drawing criticism from the Daily Mail’s Matt Barlow.

    “If points were handed out for irritability Tottenham would not be wallowing in midtable. Not with Ange Postecoglou setting the tone,” he wrote.

    “Getting narkier by the game, in a hurry to take umbrage, seemingly aghast there have not been more gushing reviews about his team’s performances.”

    Beating Brentford did little to lighten the mood of Postecoglou who cut an irritated figure postmatch.Source: AFP

    MAN UTD STADIUM REGENERATION COULD ADD £7.3BN TO BRITISH ECONOMY

    A proposed regeneration of the area around Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium could generate £7.3 billion ($14.3 billion) annually to the British economy, according to an economic feasibility study commissioned by the club.

    However, mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said on Monday no public money would go towards the project.

    United are considering whether to pursue a £2 billion plan for a brand new 100,000-seater stadium or redevelop the existing 74,000 capacity Old Trafford.

    Burnham has backed the ambitions to redevelop the stadium alongside a “mixed use” neighbourhood featuring apartment blocks, shopping centres and new public transport stations.

    Global advisory firm Oxford Economics revealed the regeneration project could deliver 92,000 new jobs, more than 17,000 new homes and an extra 1.8million visitors per year to the area.

    “This could be the biggest regeneration scheme I’ve ever seen in this country,” said Burnham.

    “We hope it’s the best football stadium in the world, which brings benefits to residents around it.”

    The project is being spearheaded by United co-owner, British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, who bought a minority stake in the club earlier this year.

    Although Ratcliffe initially hinted he could pursue government assistance in order to fund a “Wembley of the north”, that appears now to have been ruled out.

    Last week United appointed globally renowned architects Foster + Partners to work on the plans.

    Fans are being asked for their views on the redevelopment, with former United captain Gary Neville, part of an Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force, urging supporters to take part.

    A model of a new Old Trafford Stadium is seen on The Old Trafford Regeneration Stand on the first full day of the annual Labour Party conference in Liverpool, north-west England, on September 22, 2024. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP)Source: AFP

    US-BASED GROUP REACH DEAL TO BUY EVERTON

    Everton announced on Monday that the US-based Friedkin Group has reached an agreement to buy Farhad Moshiri’s majority stake in the struggling Premier League club.

    The deal is subject to regulatory approval from the Premier League, the Football Association and the Financial Conduct Authority.

    The group, led by American billionaire Dan Friedkin, had entered a period of exclusivity to negotiate a possible purchase in June, before Everton announced the following month that no deal would be struck between the parties.

    American investment firm 777 Partners were unable to complete a deal earlier this year.

    John Textor, who has a 45 per cent share in Crystal Palace, had appeared to be in the frame, but Everton’s statement on Monday confirmed an agreement had been reached with Friedkin.

    “Blue Heaven Holdings and the Friedkin Group confirm that they have reached agreement over the terms of the sale of Blue Heaven Holdings’ majority stake in Everton Football Club,” the club said.

    A spokesman for The Friedkin Group said: “We are pleased to have reached an agreement to become custodians of this iconic football club.

    “We are focused on securing the necessary approvals to complete the transaction. We look forward to providing stability to the club, and sharing our vision for its future, including the completion of the new Everton Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock.” The club are putting the finishing touches to a new stadium and are preparing to leave Goodison Park, which has been the club’s home since 1892.

    Friedkin, who also owns Serie A side Roma, has a net worth of $7.6 billion, according to Forbes.

    “The potential addition of Everton to our portfolio does not alter our focus on AS Roma. If anything, the multi-club symbiosis will only help Roma,” Friedkin said in a statement published on the Roma website.

    Sean Dyche’s side are second from bottom of the Premier League after four defeats in their opening five matches.

    Everton have remained in the English top flight for the last 70 years but have survived a number of battles to avoid relegation in recent seasons.

    Last season they were docked a total of eight points for breaching Premier League financial rules.

    The Liverpool-based club posted losses of just under £400 million ($534 million) for the four years between 2019 and 2023.

    British-Iranian businessman Moshiri first bought a 49.9 per cent stake in Everton in 2016, before increasing his holding to 94.1 per cent in 2022.

    Despite their recent struggles, Everton are one of England’s most historic clubs. Only Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City have won more top-flight titles than their total of nine.

    But the last of those came in the 1986/1987 season and the club have not won a trophy since 1995.

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  • Emotional moments in Roos victory; ‘pretty horrible tackle’ adds to injury woes: Talking Points

    Emotional moments in Roos victory; ‘pretty horrible tackle’ adds to injury woes: Talking Points

    The Socceroos are through to the next stage of AFC (Asian Football Confederation) qualifying for the 2026 World Cup – and with two games in hand.

    In the next stage, 18 nations are split into three groups of six. The teams play their group rivals twice each – home and away.

    The top two teams from each group qualify directly for the World Cup in 2026.

    The Socceroos will be hoping to achieve that result – but there are still spots for grabs if they miss out on the top two spots, so long as they finish in the top four teams in their group.

    The six teams who finish third and fourth are then placed into two groups, with the top team from each group qualifying for the World Cup.

    The second-placed teams play off against each other for the chance to compete in an inter-confederation playoff.

    All this is to say that the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams means there’s plenty of places for AFC nations to compete in the tournament.

    But for the Socceroos, they’ll be hoping to get the job done at the next stage.

    Yengi goal gives Socceroos perfect start | 00:52

    WHY THE NEXT MATCHES AREN’T DEAD RUBBERS

    While the final two fixtures in this stage of qualifying seem to be dead rubbers, there’s a crucial reason why Arnold and the Socceroos are taking them very seriously: FIFA rankings.

    The groups in the next stage are decided by seedings based on rankings – which means the top three teams in Asia are all drawn into different groups.

    The Socceroos are hoping to be one of the top three highest-ranked teams in the AFC and therefore avoid being drawn in a group with heavyweights such as Japan and Iran, currently the top two ranked teams in the AFC.

    As it stands, the Socceroos are ranked 23rd on the live rankings, just above South Korea – who were held to a shock draw by Thailand last Thursday but beat them on Tuesday night.

    If the Socceroos win their final two matches, they’ll retain their place as the third-ranked AFC team and therefore avoid Japan and Iran in the next round.

    Arnold said: “Next camp, I’m saying this openly and honestly, those FIFA ranking points are crucial at this moment, winning these games.”

    Further down the track, FIFA rankings also come into play when it comes to the World Cup draw – so every match is important.

    That also means we might not see too much experimentation when it comes to June’s fixtures against Bangladesh and Palestine.

    Arnold said: “I’m not into giving caps away. To earn a cap, it needs to be deserved and the reward of it.

    “But some of the older boys, maybe they need a break – especially after they come off the back of the (2022) World Cup and they go back to their clubs, and then they’ve had an Asian Cup in the middle of their season. So maybe they’ll need a break.”

    He added: “Sometimes they come with us, it’s 10 days of their holidays gone and they got a shorter break. Some players, after a long season, they need a good holiday, clear the brain, freshen up, then we get ready to go again.”

    Australian Head Coach Graham Arnold. Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty ImagesSource: Getty Images

    EMOTIONAL MOMENTS SHOW SPECIAL CONNECTION

    There were two especially touching moments in Tuesday night’s victory.

    The first came inside two minutes, when Craig Goodwin teed up his former Adelaide United teammate Kusini Yengi for a maiden international goal. The pair celebrated by doing Goodwin’s typical goal celebration together.

    The second was when debutant Patrick Yazbek assisted second-gamer John Iredale for his own maiden international goal, with Iredale in tears as he was mobbed by teammates.

    Yengi said to Network 10: “To score my first goal is amazing.

    “Me and Goody have a great connection. We played together at Adelaide. He assisted my first professional goal at Adelaide and now assisted my first goal at the Socceroos. It’s an amazing moment for me and to have that moment with Goody as well is even more special.”

    Goodwin said of that moment: “Really, really happy for him. He’s gone across to England and put in some really good performances there (with Portsmouth) and he’s starting to get his opportunity now at national team level. I’ve spent a lot of time with him at Adelaide and I think he’s someone who has a really bright future ahead of him.

    “As his game develops and he starts to play more games and gets more consistency at that level, I think he’s someone who has the potential to go really high in the game.

    “With the physical attributes that he has, and if he can fine tune some of the other areas, he’s going to be very tough to handle.”

    Speaking of Iredale’s emotional maiden goal, Goodwin added: “It’s brilliant. You’ll never be able to really recreate that moment – scoring your first goal for your nation. For me it was scoring against Vietnam in Melbourne. I had the same thing, the same emotions that come over you because it’s everything you dream of as a kid.

    “To be able to score for your nation – and for these boys to do that – you are fulfilling a childhood dream. It’s brilliant for him.”

    Goodwin continued: “We are a tight-knit group. It’s great. Every chance we have to celebrate boys, you can see every person ran over to Kas (Kusini) when he scored, everybody ran over to Johnny when he scored. Even boys are applauding when lads are coming on to make their debut with Patty (Yazbek) and Nissy (Nisbet).

    “So it’s a fantastic group that we have here and we’re really proud when we can celebrate each other.”

    There certainly was plenty to celebrate.

    Khalil Khamis of Lebanon and Patrick Yazbek of Australia. Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty ImagesSource: Getty Images

    ‘PRETTY HORRIBLE TACKLE’ ADDS TO INJURY WOES

    For all the positivity to come out of the big win, there was a very sad scene: Ajdin Hrustic limping off the pitch with the help of two trainers, hardly able to use his left foot at all. Hrustic had copped plenty of whacks all night with no protection from the referee, and it all culminated in a horror tackle in the 51st minute which left him in a crumpled heap on the turf.

    Coach Graham Arnold was bitterly disappointed at the incident, saying afterwards: “The medical side, the medical team are looking after (Hrustic). But I will say if there was VAR that was red. It was a pretty horrible tackle, when you look at it back.”

    “He’s hobbling around the dressing room,” he added.

    Making just his second Socceroos appearance since June 2023 – and his first start since September 2022 – it was a nightmare outcome for Hrustic, who had showed flashes of brilliance in both matches. He assisted Craig Goodwin’s first goal with a sensational dink over the backline and should have scored himself when Goodwin teed him up with a superb cut-back in the first half.

    But after a horror year and a half, where serious injury and then club exile saw him tumble out of the Socceroos’ spotlight, Hrustic seemed poised to get back to his best and make up for lost time.

    “I’ve still got unfinished business with the World Cup,” he said after Thursday’s win.

    “I’ve got a lot to work for and there’s a lot ahead of me. I’m taking it step by step, but I’m excited.”

    Fingers crossed it’s only a minor injury, because the Socceroos can ill-afford to suffer more blows to their squad.

    Riley McGree and Jordy Bos went down in Thursday’s win, while the squad is already without a host of star names including starters Aziz Behich and Martin Boyle, plus the likes of Alex Robertson, Marco Tilio, even Mat Leckie.

    With the Socceroos not back in action until June, hopefully a host of players return to fitness and are available for contention.

    If not, Arnold will be well-pleased with the performances of his youngsters and can be confident they’ll be ready to take another step up.

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  • No answer to striker headache; injuries give huge opportunity for next gen: Socceroos Talking Points

    No answer to striker headache; injuries give huge opportunity for next gen: Socceroos Talking Points

    Familiar issues were painfully clear to see as the Socceroos battled past a Lebanon side that put up a hell of a fight on Thursday night.

    The Socceroos struggled to create much in the way of chances, outside of a lucky fifth-minute goal from Keanu Baccus that he joked was deliberate – but really was intended as a cross.

    Defender Kye Rowles made it 2-0 in the second half off a corner, but the Socceroos’ worrying inability to carve out opportunities from open play was on full display once again despite a win that moves Australia closer to the 2026 World Cup.

    Even a change to a 4-4-2 formation didn’t spark much life into a Socceroos attack that has long struggled to break down opposing defences.

    There was, certainly, flashes of brilliance and reasons for optimism. Ajdin Hrustic showed flashes of his instinctive, creative best – something the Socceroos have missed with the playmaker having been stuck in club purgatory for just about all of 2023, where he managed all of 45 minutes for the national team.

    “He gives you that little bit of X factor,” coach Graham Arnold said. “Some of the flicks around the corner, the little chips over the top – those type of things are what we’re wanting, and what we need in the final third against some of these opponents.”

    And there was the caveat that many of the players had just one training session together after assembling in Sydney, while Arnold also pointed to a Commbank Stadium turf that “wasn’t an easy pitch to play on”.

    Here are the biggest talking points from the two-goal win in Sydney.

    ‘We can do better’: Socceroos claim ‘sloppy’ win despite worrying double injury blow

    Player Ratings: Maiden goal caps stellar night for selfless Roo; exiled star shows what we missed

    Keanu Baccus’ early goal failed to spark the Socceroos into life in a nervy win.Source: Getty Images

    NO CLEAR ANSWER TO BIG NO.9 ISSUE

    When Graham Arnold named his 25-player squad for this pair of fixtures, one thing stood out: the inclusion of a full SIX strikers.

    Since the retirement of Tim Cahill, no number nine has well and truly made the shirt their own. There has been no shortage of good players given a shot in that position, but with focus turning to the World Cup in 2026, it remains one of the biggest headaches for coach Graham Arnold.

    The biggest problem is that many of his striker options are in their 30s – and may not still be fit and firing by the time 2026 comes along.

    In the current squad, there is 36-year-old Bruno Fornaroli, 33-year-old Mitchell Duke, and 30-year-old Adam Taggart, while Brandon Borrello is 28.

    By the next World Cup, Arnold will be lucky to have all of them available for selection – or perhaps even a couple of them.

    Kusini Yengi (25) started against Lebanon alongside Taggart – the two most in-form attackers at club level – while John Iredale (24) debuted off the bench alongside Duke.

    The four each had promising moments but none made a real statement that they should be the starting No.9 moving forward.

    No centre forward has scored for the Socceroos since before the Asian Cup in January – now a six-game drought.

    All six of the players offer unique skill-sets, as Arnold said when announcing his squad.

    “All of them bring something different,” Arnold said.

    That was on full display tonight.

    Taggart frequently ran in behind the defence, Yengi is strong and loves to dribble at opponents, Duke is an excellent hold-up player and tireless in pressing, and Iredale is fast and physical.

    “Six centre forwards in the squad is an exciting prospect for us,” Jackson Irvine said this week, “and it will be interesting to see how that unfolds over the next couple of games.”

    Tonight none of them put their name up in lights.

    Arnold will have his fingers and toes crossed that one of the six grabs the reins on Tuesday and makes the number nine their own.

    Kye Rowles was beaming after scoring a maiden international goal.Source: Getty Images

    DEFENCE DOES THE JOB AGAIN

    Thursday’s victory made it eight clean sheets from the Socceroos’ last ten matches – an impressive record in defence.

    Sure, all-but-one of those matches have come against lower-ranked opponents, but you can’t deny that the Socceroos success is being built on a foundation of a strong defence – even if that clean sheet was somewhat fortunate, given Lebanon finished the better side and struck the post late on.

    Harry Souttar continues to defy his lack of club minutes at Leicester City in England’s second tier, while Cameron Burgess has converted his strong form for Leicester’s high-flying Championship rivals Ipswich Town into solid performances for the Socceroos. The third centre-back, Kye Rowles, has become one of the most dependable performers for the team, even despite being pushed out to left back to replace the injured Aziz Behich.

    The depth at centre-back is extremely pleasing – as is their knack of scoring goals.

    “That’s what we need, we need everyone to score!” Arnold told Channel 10 with a wry smile.

    Souttar already has 11 to his name for the Socceroos, while man of the match Rowles scored his first against Lebanon.

    Rowles and Souttar are both 25, while Burgess is 28. The trio could have locked down the centre-back spots for the foreseeable future.

    Meanwhile Maty Ryan, the captain and first-choice number one, was typically solid between the sticks and made two fine saves.

    While depth on at both fullback spots remains something of a concern, the defence – and particularly that core group of four players – is in rude health.

    The defence was excellent once again.Source: Getty Images

    INJURIES WILL FORCE MORE SHUFFLING … AND MORE CHANCES

    Arnold’s selections for the Asian Cup and this pair of World Cup qualifying fixtures made it clear that he’s looking towards the future.

    Asked pre-game if it felt like a ‘new phase’ for the team, Arnold told Channel 10: “Yeah look, the things I said before the Asian Cup about regenerating the squad came – hopefully – through thick and clear.

    “With some of the older boys out injured in this game – Craig Goodwin, Mat Leckie’s still injured, Martin Boyle, Aziz Behich – the young ones that we gave a chance at the Asian Cup, this is a great opportunity for them.”

    Keanu Baccus (25) and Connor Metcalfe (24) were both impressive after being named in the starting XI on Thursday night, while the returning Ajdin Hrustic also reminded Arnold what he can offer the team.

    But a pair of first-half injuries – to Riley McGree and 21-year-old Jordy Bos – means that Graham Arnold will be forced into more changes for the Lebanon rematch in Canberra on Tuesday.

    Arnold immediately ruled both out of that match, while Baccus earned a yellow card that will see him suspended on Tuesday night.

    The Socceroos will have Craig Goodwin available, with the winger recovering from an illness and ready to play the second match.

    “(Goodwin) is so good he’s already down in Canberra waiting for us,” Arnold said. “He’ll be available on Tuesday.”

    21-year-old Patrick Yazbek and diminutive 24-year-old Josh Nisbet will be hoping to debut in the midfield in that game, while 23-year-old winger Samuel Silvera has been in strong form for Middlesbrough in England’s second tier and will also hope to get on the pitch.

    While the raft of injuries to veteran players has left the squad short on experience, it’s a huge opportunity for the next generation to make their mark.

    And should the Socceroos win on Tuesday, Australia will be guaranteed a place in the next stage of World Cup qualifying with two matches to spare.

    In that case, matches against Lebanon and Palestine in June will become dead rubbers – and Arnold might be tempted to roll the dice on blooding a whole raft of young guns.

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  • Arnold slams clubs over selfish act that could end Aussie Olympic dream: Socceroos Talking Points

    Arnold slams clubs over selfish act that could end Aussie Olympic dream: Socceroos Talking Points

    The Socceroos are preparing to take to the field for the first time since their heartbreaking Asian Cup quarterfinal defeat to South Korea, with attention now fully focused on the road to the 2026 World Cup.

    Coach Graham Arnold announced his squad for the two qualifiers against Lebanon today, but had plenty of selection headaches amid an injury crisis – particularly in one problem position.

    And as Arnold looks to the future, three potential debutants could get their shot.

    Here are the big talking points from today’s announcement.

    Arnold has had plenty of selection headaches to deal with.Source: Getty Images

    ARNOLD WHACKS EURO CLUBS

    Arnold has been forced into a difficult balancing act in selecting this squad – just as he did in the Asian Cup in January – over whether or not to select under-23 players.

    The U23 Asian Cup next month will decide which nations qualify for the Olympic Games in Paris. Yet next month’s tournament is not held during a FIFA window, meaning clubs are not obligated to release players to compete for the Olyroos.

    Arnold has tried to convince them to let talented youngsters players play for the Olyroos by omitting them from his Socceroos squads.

    That was the case for 20-year-old centre-back Alessandro Circati, who was left out of the Asian Cup squad and is again absent this time around.

    Parma is hunting promotion to Italy’s Serie B, making it understandable they are reluctant to lose any players in the closing stages of the season.

    But if he hoped leaving Circati out of the Socceroos team would mean Parma let him play for the Olyroos, those hopes are fading fast.

    “That’s to be determined. But I have to say, I’d be doubtful about that,” Arnold said.

    Circati debuted in a friendly against New Zealand last year.Source: Getty Images

    He slammed European clubs for pressuring players to turn down international call-ups and focus on their domestic careers.

    “Tony Vidmar [Olyroos coach] at the moment is getting quite a number of overseas-based clubs refusing to release players in April. I spoke to [Circati] and I think it’s one thing a lot of people need to understand: the pressure that kids get put under from their clubs overseas to [not] play for Australia is a lot.

    “Alessandro and even [uncapped 20-year-old] Cristian Volpato, exactly the same. They just want to focus on their club careers at this moment in time. I do believe that Alessandro, especially, will play for Australia, and I do believe Cristian will want to play for Australia. It’s just at the moment, the timing is probably not right for them – especially with Alessandro; they’re going for promotion with Parma to get up in Serie A.”

    Arnold is well-placed to comment on the plight of the Olyroos, having led them to both the 2008 and 2020 Olympics.

    Selecting a squad is difficult enough. It’s made even harder when balancing the needs of the under-23 team – and when clubs don’t play ball.

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    Standard’s Aiden O’Neill is missing due to injury and suspension.Source: AFP

    INJURY CRISIS PROVIDES BIG CHANCES

    Two of the Socceroos starting XI from their last match – the Asian Cup quarter-final against South Korea – have been ruled out of this squad.

    Winger Martin Boyle suffered a nasty concussion playing for Hibernian, while veteran left-back Aziz Behich, a teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, has suffered an ankle injury.

    Behich played every minute of the Socceroos’ five Asian Cup matches, while Boyle started all five matches and scored two goals.

    But the list of injured players is much longer – “12 or 13” in total, Arnold says.

    Wingers Marco Tilio (on loan at Melbourne City, hamstring injury) and Awer Mabil (Grasshopper FC in Switzerland) are both injured.

    Midfielder Aiden O’Neill is battling an ankle injury, but would have been ruled out regardless after picking up a red card against South Korea. Highly touted 21-year-old midfielder Alex Robertson is out with a torn thigh muscle.

    Meanwhile, there’s an added worry for Arnold after Lewis Miller – who was named in the squad – hobbled off with injury this morning.

    “He called me straight from the dressing room this morning, it’s too early to rule him out,” Arnold said.

    “He’s going to have scans and get checked on and then we’ll deal with that in the next couple of days.”

    Australia’s defender #19 Harry Souttar consoles Australia’s defender #20 Lewis Miller after their defeat in the Qatar 2023 AFC Asian Cup quarter-final football match between Australia and South Korea at Al-Janoub Stadium in al-Wakrah, south of Doha, on February 2, 2024. (Photo by HECTOR RETAMAL / AFP)Source: AFP

    It means the Socceroos have been forced into a number of changes, but also provides a significant chance for players to stake their claim in the starting side.

    That is particularly the case for wingers – with nailed-on starter Boyle a key absentee. Jordy Bos (more on him below) and Craig Goodwin (32) are the likely first-choice starters, though Middlesbrough’s Sam Silvera (23) could get his shot.

    Brandon Borrello (28) has recovered from the ankle complaint that ruled him out of the Asian Cup and has been recalled, with the Western Sydney Wanderers attacker hoping his versatility can give him a greater opportunity at the national team level.

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    Kusini Yengi, the 25-year-old striker for Portsmouth in England’s League One, also looms as one to watch this window. He was deployed on the right side of the attack this week against Burton. After missing a wide-open goal, the Aussie gun recovered to score a panenka penalty and turned it into a brace in the second half.

    He now has 10 goals and two assists in 23 appearances in all competitions – but his surprise start at right-wing could convince Graham Arnold he can perform in a wider role rather than just as a striker, where there’s plenty of competition for places.

    Besides Yengi, there’s veteran Mitchell Duke, uncapped John Iredale, and the A-League trio of Bruno Fornaroli, Brandon Borrello and Adam Taggart.

    “All of them bring something different,” Arnold said.

    Kusini Yengi missed a sitter – and ended up caught in the net!Source: Getty Images

    BIG QUESTION OVER LONG-TERM PROBLEM POSITION

    With Aziz Behich injured, the Socceroos are left with just one specialist left-back in the squad: 12-cap Jordy Bos. The 21-year-old left-back is enjoying a stellar season at KVC Westerlo in Belgium, scoring a sublime long-range strike on the weekend.

    But at the Asian Cup, he played exclusively as a winger – and scored his maiden Socceroos goal just moments after coming off the bench in the opening match – with Arnold repeatedly stating that he believes the youngster is more suited to an attacking position.

    Yet Behich is 33 years old, and it is unclear whether he will be capable of playing in the next World Cup in 2026.

    It means the Socceroos have a big question mark over the future at the position.

    Bos’ undoubted potential has led many to believe he could lock down the role for the foreseeable future.

    In the Asian Cup warm-up match against Bahrain, Bos delivered a faultless performance in that position, and he previously impressed in the left-back role against Bangladesh last year.

    But Arnold is likely to stick to his guns and deploy Bos as a winger this time around, especially with the absence of Boyle leaving the frontline a little lean.

    Bos is more suited to the left flank, but Craig Goodwin could be deployed on that side with Bos shifted to the right.

    South Korea’s midfielder #26 Yang Hyun-jun is marked by Australia’s defender #16 Aziz Behich during the Qatar 2023 AFC Asian Cup quarter-final football match between Australia and South Korea at Al-Janoub Stadium in al-Wakrah, south of Doha, on February 2, 2024. (Photo by Giuseppe CACACE / AFP)Source: AFP

    Assuming Arnold does deploy Bos in attack, Kye Rowles is most likely to deputise on the left.

    Arnold said: “Kye Rowles can also play there, it’s a good thing what we did last year in some friendlies, trying different ways (of lining up).

    “Jordy’s obviously playing that role at Westerlo, it’s a familiar role for him.”

    The left-footer is typically deployed as a left-sided centre-back and has formed what is clearly Australia’s first-choice partnership with Harry Souttar.

    The pair played together in four of the five Asian Cup matches, with Souttar partnered by Cameron Burgess in the other.

    Rowles has been used at left-back before, notably in back-to-back games against Mexico and England late last year.

    It appears the most likely option for the upcoming pair of matches against Lebanon, which would give Burgess a chance to nail down a position alongside Souttar in the heart of defence.

    Souttar, of course, remains in virtual exile at club level, having made just four appearances for Leicester all season in all competitions (not due to any fault of his own, but rather that Leicester’s other centre-backs have been outstanding).

    But Souttar’s performances at the Asian Cup proved that despite his lack of match minutes he can be relied upon to deliver for the national team – and means that Rowles could be forced to play at left-back whenever Behich is absent.

    Arnold said his lack of game time was a concern but added: “The way he plays for us, the goals he scores – he’s probably our leading scorer in my reign!”

    “I know he’s working extremely hard and I know he’s ready for these games.”

    23-year-old Sydney FC fullback Joel King has been viewed as a long-term prospect at the troubling left-back position after impressing at the Tokyo Olympics and in four Socceroos appearances.

    He was an unused substitute at the 2022 World Cup but has fallen down the pecking order since then. All four of his Socceroos appearances came in 2022, and missed out on this window due to only just having recovered from a toe injury.

    29-year-old Callum Elder at League One side Derby County could have been in the mix for a recall, only to suffer an ankle sprain a fortnight ago.

    Outstanding 21-year-old Jacob Farrell of the Central Coast Mariners could be the next in line. He will feature this window for the Olyroos (U-23s) at the West Asian Football Federation (WAFF) U-23 Championship in Saudi Arabia, a crucial preparation for the Olyroos ahead of the U23 Asian Cup which doubles as Olympic qualifiers.

    Graham Arnold will certainly be keeping a close eye on Farrell – and many other Olyroos stars – as he looks to build his squad for the future with the World Cup firmly in mind.

    For now, however, Arnold faces a conundrum over whether to stick with Bos as a winger or shift him to left-back, where he has both the potential and the opportunity to be the long-term answer to a major selection problem.

    Tom Glover (R) could be in line to debut.Source: Getty Images

    THREE POTENTIAL DEBUTANTS

    Behind captain Maty Ryan, there are two young goalkeepers: Joe Gauci of Aston Villa and Tom Glover of Middlesbrough. The highly talented duo headline the list of potential replacements for 31-year-old Ryan, though the Socceroos’ first-choice number one shows no signs of slowing down.

    Glover has been in Socceroos camps multiple times – most recently in October in London – but has not yet debuted. The 26-year-old has played 20 times for second-tier Boro this season and could well earn his first cap should Arnold look to blood the next generation.

    23-year-old Gauci has not yet debuted for Premier League club Aston Villa after his groundbreaking move in the January transfer window, but has two caps for the Socceroos already and is perhaps already ahead of Glover in the pecking order.

    On the other end of the pitch, Germany-based striker John Iredale would be a shock debutant given his patchy form in the Bundesliga 2 this campaign, with three goals and an assist in 16 appearances in all competitions.

    The striking position is an area where the Socceroos are struggling for depth, particularly in the younger generation, and the 24-year-old boasts plenty of physicality – which could help his case for a debut.

    Perhaps the most intriguing decision among the selections was that of defensive midfielder Patrick Yazbek.

    The 23-year-old has been absolutely stellar for Norwegian side Viking FK this campaign and certainly deserves to be in the Socceroos. With Aiden O’Neill and Alex Robertson both ruled out, he is more than capable of stepping up as Keanu Baccus’ back-up in the defensive midfield role.

    Yet questions have been raised over whether he would be better off playing with the under-23s in Saudi Arabia, where he had been called up before being poached by Arnold’s Socceroos.

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