All posts by n8rngtd.top

Leeds United are set for a massive summer in the transfer market as they aim to make themselves a competitive outfit in the Premier League ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Daniel Farke led the side to the Championship title this campaign after achieving a staggering total of 100 points, ending their two-year stint in England’s second division.

However, the real test starts now for the German, looking to avoid relegation from the top flight, something which he’s been unable to do with his previous attempts with Norwich City.

If he is to achieve such a feat, the board will need to back him heavily this summer, with a £100m spending spree mooted around Yorkshire over the last couple of days.

With the transfer window rapidly approaching, the board have already made plans for potential additions, with one name already emerging as a key target for the summer.

The latest on Leeds’ pursuit of James McAtee

In recent days, Manchester City star James McAtee has remerged on Leeds’ shortlist after previously being a target on loan ahead of the 2024/25 season.

The 22-year-old has impressed within Pep Guardiola’s squad this campaign, registering seven goals in his 27 appearances throughout the current campaign.

With his deal set to expire in 2026, the Whites have been touted as a potential destination for the youngster, but could face competition from the likes of Nottingham Forest and Bayer Leverkusen this summer.

A report from the Yorkshire Evening Post claims that Farke’s side have made an enquiry to sign the youngster this summer, but any deal would set the hierarchy back around £25m.

However, despite the links to the English star, the club already have a talent whose worth more than McAtee – showcasing the impressive recruitment conducted by the club in recent years.

The Leeds star who’s now worth more than McAtee

Over the last couple of seasons, Leeds have recruited well in the market, undoubtedly playing a massive role in their success they’ve endured this campaign.

Ethan Ampadu joined for just £7m from Chelsea back in the summer of 2023, now looking to be a bargain given his success in the side – registering 86 appearances in his two years at the club.

The Welsh international has even taken the captain’s armband during Farke’s reign, highlighting the impressive development he’s made at Elland Road since his switch.

He’s not the only person to exceed expectations, with winger Wilfried Gnonto thriving in Yorkshire over the last couple of years after his £3.8m transfer from FC Zurich in the summer of 2022.

The Italian has since made huge strides in the professional game, registering over 100 appearances for the club – producing numerous moments of magic in such a time period.

He’s managed to find the net on 22 occasions, including one of the goals against Plymouth Argyle on the final day – securing the club the Championship title as a result.

Such performances have seen him linked with huge moves away from the club in recent years, with Everton just one of the sides interested in his signature as of late.

Interest isn’t the only thing that has occurred as a result of his displays, with his market value taking a sharp upturn – now with millions more than the fee they paid for his signature.

Gnonto, who’s been labelled “monster” by one analyst, is now valued at £19.5m by FootballTransfers, an increase of over 410% since he moved to Yorkshire.

Such a value is higher than that of McAtee, who’s valued at just £15m – further highlighting the impressive work done behind the scenes over the last few seasons.

A deal for McAtee is certainly one that would bolster the attacking department at Elland Road, that’s if his goal tally from 2024/25 is anything to go by.

However, a repeat of a deal for Gnonto showcases that bargains are still there to be had in the current climate, with any subsequent deal banking the club a hefty profit in the years ahead.

Their answer to Hamer: 49ers lining up Leeds swoop for "special" £25m star

Leeds could land their own version of Gustavo Hamer in a move for this £25m star.

By
Dan Emery

May 12, 2025

Chelsea are “keen on signing” a defender, and there is now a possibility he will join on a free transfer, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Blues looking to upgrade in defence this summer

As we approach the summer transfer window, it is clear the Blues are looking to bring in a new defender, and they have identified a number of targets from within the Premier League, including AFC Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen.

It has been a real breakout season for Huijsen, with the Spaniard now attracting attention from a number of top clubs, and Enzo Maresca’s side are now believed to be the favourites for his signature, having submitted a seven-year contract offer.

Despite having both Reece James and Malo Gusto on the books, there have also been suggestions that Maresca could look to bring in a new right-back this summer, with Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina recently being named as a potential target.

Sky Sports: Chelsea in talks to sign £50m+ forward with "electric pace"

The Blues are now showing “concrete” interest in signing a forward, and they are prepared to double his salary.

By
Dominic Lund

Apr 27, 2025

Chelsea have clearly been impressed by a number of Premier League defenders this season, with Romano recently taking to X to reveal they are “keen on signing” Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who has been on their shortlist “for months”.

Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are also in the race for Guehi, so there could be fierce competition for his signature this summer, with Spurs well-known to have had a £70m bid knocked back previously.

Should none of the interested parties be able to tempt Palace into a sale this summer, there is a possibility the defender remains at Selhurst Park until 2026, at which point he will be able to leave the Eagles on a free transfer upon the expiration of his contract.

"Beast" Guehi could be top signing for Blues

Lauded as a “beast” by journalist Saddick Adams, the 24-year-old has once again been a key component of the Palace side this season, making 41 appearances in all competitions, while displaying his leadership abilities by taking on the role of captain.

The England international has three goals and two assists to his name in the Premier League, underlining his attacking threat, but most importantly, he has continued to impress from a defensive point of view, receiving very high praise from Jamie Redknapp.

Most recently, the Palace captain put in a solid performance to help his side to a 3-0 victory against Aston Villa, with the Eagles booking their place in the FA Cup final against Manchester City next month.

Captaining his side to an FA Cup triumph would be a fitting end to Guehi’s time at Palace, but given that he clearly has the talent to play for a top club, it would be wise to move on this summer.

Leeds United are preparing for life back in the Premier League after winning promotion from the Championship at the second time of asking under Daniel Farke.

The Whites and the 49ers Enterprises have already been linked with replacing the Leeds manager ahead of their top flight return due to concerns about his previous record with Norwich City.

In what would be a ruthless call from the Elland Road board, Leeds are also likely to be very busy in the transfer market to bolster their squad with quality on the pitch to remain a Premier League side.

Latest Leeds 2025 summer transfer targets: in pictures

1

Kalvin Phillips

Man City

Former Whites midfielder Kalvin Phillips has found life difficult after leaving Leeds for Man City in 2022. Recent loan spells at West Ham and Ipswich Town haven’t worked out for the defensive midfielder, who could now be on the search for another new club this summer.

Reports have linked Phillips with a return to Leeds, saying that he is keen on the idea of heading back to his boyhood club.

2

Manor Solomon

Tottenham

Loanee Manor Solomon has helped Leeds into the Premier League with some crucial displays during the run-in, and he is expected to become a permanent Whites player this summer.

The Israel international could cost around £15m, with claims he is set to be Leeds’ first signing of the window.

3

Sam Johnstone

Wolves

A new goalkeeper to replace Illan Meslier could be high up on the to-do list for Leeds, and Sam Johnstone of Wolves is thought to be of interest at Elland Road.

A goalkeeper with plenty of Premier League experience now after stints with West Brom, Crystal Palace and Wolves, Johnstone was actually on the books of rivals Man Utd early in his career and starred against Leeds back in 2023.

4

Julian Weigl

Borussia Monchengladbach

Farke has previously worked with midfielder Julian Weigl at Borussia Monchengladbach and recent claims have suggested that initial contact has taken place over a move to Leeds.

The Monchengladbach captain has plenty of experience in the Bundesliga and has even played in the Champions League, so he could add that extra bit of quality in midfield for the Whites.

5

Evan Ferguson

Brighton

With doubts at Leeds over Joel Piroe and Patrick Bamford in the Premier League, a new striker looks set to be signed ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with Brighton’s Evan Ferguson a target.

The Irishman has been on loan at West Ham for the second half of the 2024/25 season, and by the looks of things, Leeds could try their luck with a forward who could be the “next Harry Kane”.

6

Tomas Soucek

West Ham

Towering West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek is another Premier League player to be linked with Leeds, especially after falling out of favour under Graham Potter recently.

The Czech Republic international is wanted by Leeds and Everton with the 49ers even willing to pay him a whopping £120,000-a-week, an increase on his current Hammers deal.

7

Caoimhin Kelleher

Liverpool

Another goalkeeper who could replace Meslier at Elland Road is Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher, who could be a man in demand over the coming months.

Kelleher has impressed when called upon at Anfield and may well become number one for the first time in his career in Yorkshire.

8

Nico Elvedi

Borussia Monchengladbach

Another Borussia Monchengladbach player who Farke knows well is defender Nico Elvedi, who has been with the Bundesliga side since 2015.

Reports claimed that Leeds were preparing a £10m offer to sign the experienced Switzerland international if promotion was secured, something they can now do.

9

George Hirst

Ipswich Town

Leeds could look to raid the teams coming down from the Premier League, with recent rumours of a move for Ipswich Town forward George Hirst.

The Tractor Boys are looking to keep the attacker at Portman Road with a new deal due to interest from the Whites and fellow promoted side Burnley.

10

Aaron Ramsdale

Southampton

Another Premier League relegated target is goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who reportedly has a £25m release clause in his Southampton contract.

The Englishman has admirers from Leeds and the likes of Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest, although he could get regular game time at Elland Road.

Chelsea are believed to be prepared to fork out a significant sum for an alternative to right-back Malo Gusto this summer, with Enzo Maresca pondering his full-back options ahead of his second full season in charge.

Malo Gusto criticised as Chelsea handed right-back dilemma

Club captain Reece James recently returned from his injury hell to provide Maresca with much-needed reinforcement in the right-back area, but given his history of hamstring problems, there is no telling just how long he’ll be in contention for.

Chelsea can forget Delap by unleashing "Cobham's finest" 17-year-old star

Chelsea’s Cobham jewel could already be their answer to Liam Delap

1

By
Connor Holden

Apr 15, 2025

The Englishman, who was recently recalled to the Three Lions squad by new England boss Thomas Tuchel, has featured in nine of Chelsea’s last 12 Premier League games since returning from injury, missing one due to illness, so the signs have been positive.

Chelsea will be hopeful that the £250,000-per-week star can maintain this positive run of availability, but there is still a reliance on the out-of-form Gusto.

Gusto has attracted criticism throughout 2024/2025 for some sub-par displays, but Maresca will be cautious about dropping the former Lyon sensation in favour of being too overly reliant on James, as BlueCo tread carefully when it comes to the latter’s fitness.

The 21-year-old is still young and with plenty of room for improvement, though his return of just two assists in 33 appearances across all competitions will also be a concern for Maresca.

Chelsea need more threat from their full-backs on the overlap, and they ideally need a figurehead who can provide that injection of quality when they’re struggling to break sides down in the low-block.

Taking this into account, Barcelona right-back Jules Koundé could be a truly excellent option.

The France international, who can also play at centre-half, has the ability to kill two birds with one stone as Chelsea reportedly look to sign a centre-back this summer.

Arsenal are also very interested in Kounde, according to other reports, following the 26-year-old’s exceptional campaign under Hansi Flick at the Bernabeu. Kounde has started 28 La Liga matches this term, making 50 appearances in all competitions and bagging eight assists in the process – standing out as one of Flick’s key men.

Chelsea prepared to bid £68 million for Jules Koundé this summer

Now, according to reports out of Spain, it is believed Chelsea are ready to match Arsenal in the potential race for his signature.

Indeed, Chelsea are also prepared to make an offer of £68 million for Kounde, and Barca’s current financial troubles could tempt the Catalans into doing business. This bid would represent a significant profit for Barca, at a time when they really need it, and a figure of this magnitude could represent an “unexpected solution” to balance their books.

The west Londoners are apparently ready to outbid Arsenal for Kounde, and “already have a plan in place” to sway Kounde with a move to Stamford Bridge.

One sticking point could be the defender’s £224,000-per-week wages, though, which would place him among Maresca’s highest-earning players.

Declan Rice’s magical free-kick double reignited Arsenal’s season as they thumped European champions Real Madrid on a historic Champions League night at the Emirates Stadium.

The England midfielder’s superb brace was even more incredible considering he had never scored a direct free-kick in his senior career.

Now a hero in N5, he joins a list of great free-kick goalscorers for the Gunners. Here, we rank some of the best free-kicks scored by those in red and white down the years.

10 best Premier League free-kicks of all time (Ranked)

David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo have scored two of the best free-kicks in recent history, but who has scored the greatest in the PL era?

By
Lewis Thompson

Jun 15, 2024

9

Mesut Ozil v Liverpool

2014/15 Premier League

Arsenal were flying when they took on Liverpool at the Emirates in April 2015, with Arsene Wenger’s side coming into the game on a six-game winning streak.

Backed to see off the Reds as they looked to overtake Manchester City in second place, the Gunners went ahead just before the break through Hector Bellerin.

Minutes later, Arsenal were awarded a free-kick on the right-hand side, with Mesut Ozil standing over it.

And despite placing it on the ‘keeper’s side, the German doubled Arsenal’s lead with a superb effort, which set the Gunners up for a 4-1 victory.

8

Cesc Fabregas v Aston Villa

2009/10 Premier League

With their title bid threatening to falter, Arsenal were struggling to break down a stubborn Aston Villa team that had been a thorn in the Gunners side.

Level on points with their opponents at the time, it was a must-win game. But with Arsenal toiling, a less-than-fit Cesc Fabregas was summoned to give the home side the advantage they craved.

Around 25 yards out, the captain stepped up to put his team in front with a superb curling effort that Brad Friedel could do nothing about.

7

Robin van Persie v Sunderland

2007/08 Premier League

Robin van Persie’s strike against Sunderland would probably still be travelling had it not nearly shattered the Emirates crossbar back in 2007.

His thumping early free-kick against the Black Cats was past Craig Gordon like a bullet, and was one of those you could watch over and over again.

The Dutchman then popped up late on after the Gunners had dropped a two-goal lead to take them to the top of the table.

6

Thierry Henry v Roma

2002/03 Champions League

Thierry Henry had such a knack for scoring great free-kicks, he could have his own ‘best of’ compilation.

But one of his finest has to be his clincher in the Stadio Olimpico against Roma in the Champions League, which not only secured a superb away win in the second group phase for Arsenal, but a magical European hat-trick.

Goalkeeper Francesco Antonioli had absolutely no chance.

5

Mikel Arteta v Aston Villa

2011/12 Premier League

Some free-kicks just stay hit, and Mikel Arteta certainly proved this against Aston Villa in the 2011/12 season.

During a routine victory for the Gunners, Arteta put the icing on the cake with a screamer into the net from miles out.

Shay Given appeared to have been expecting a shot into the opposite corner, but once he’d made the wrong decision, the ball was already past him.

4

Declan Rice v Real Madrid

2024/25 Champions League

This may be fresh in the memory, but Declan Rice’s first strike against Real Madrid was befitting of the occasion, not to mention a thing of beauty.

Having spotted the potential to curl one around the outside of the wall, Rice’s strike lit up the Emirates, handing Arsenal the lead over the European champions.

It was also Arsenal’s first direct free-kick goal since Martin Odegaard scored against Burnley in September 2021. The relief and ecstasy was tangible.

For the moment alone, it will likely be a special memory for years to come.

3

Thierry Henry v Wigan

2005/06 Premier League

Thierry Henry was up to his old tricks against Wigan in 2005, producing a superb free-kick – with a cold celebration to go with it.

Having built a reputation for taking free-kicks quickly, referee Graham Poll made it very clear he had to wait for the official’s whistle.

Clearly disturbed by this, Henry responded by placing an inch-perfect free-kick in off the post, leading him to ask the referee, “is that enough?”.

2

Santi Cazorla v Hull

2013/14 FA Cup

Arsenal had often been accused of lacking leaders, and when the Gunners were 2-0 down to Hull City in the 2014 FA Cup final, it looked like those concerns would re-emerge as their trophy drought threatened to extend further.

But after being handed a free-kick, Santi Cazorla scored perhaps his greatest Arsenal goal under the Wembley arch by torpedoing a strike past Allan McGregor in the Tigers net.

It set Arsenal up for the dramatic comeback that won them the trophy, and gave the supporters a moment to treasure forever.

1

Declan Rice v Real Madrid

2024/25 Champions League

The term ‘top bins’ has been around for a while now, but this may well be the ultimate epitome.

Having just scored a screamer past Thibaut Courtois in the Real Madrid goal, Declan Rice lined up what he hoped would be another screamer.

Buoyed by his earlier effort, Rice smashed home an all-timer to double the Gunners’ lead on the night and score what is surely the best free-kick the club has ever seen, with the ball arrowing into the top corner.

When you consider the importance, the opposition and the perfect execution, it is going to be hard for anyone to top this.

Ranking The Top 10 Free Kicks Of All Time

Football Fancast runs down the top ten best free kicks in football history.

By
Alex Roberts

Dec 10, 2023

Manchester United have reportedly tabled an offer to sign Sergio Ramos on a free transfer after the Real Madrid legend's departure from Monterrey. The 39-year-old made his final appearance for the Mexican club in their Liga MX play-off semi-final defeat to Toluca on 7 December, and it has been said that he is eying a return to Europe.

• United turn to Ramos amid defensive turmoil

  Although deep into the twilight of a remarkable career, Ramos demonstrated during his time in Mexico that he retains a competitive edge. After arriving at Monterrey in February 2025, he contributed seven goals in 32 matches, a remarkable tally for a centre-back, while anchoring their defence with the aggression and leadership synonymous with his peak years at Real Madrid. Speaking after Monterrey’s elimination from the Liga MX playoffs, Ramos revealed with unmistakable finality that he had played his last match for the club.

  A report from, relayed by , has suggested that the World Cup winner is prioritising a return to Europe, seeking one final challenge before retirement. United, aware of both his quality and availability, have moved quickly and are regarded as the favourites to land him. However, negotiations are said to only be in the initial stages, and nothing has been "finalised".

Advertisement

• Getty Images Sport
  

  A longstanding courtship rekindled

  This is far from the first time the Premier League giants have pursued Ramos. In 2015, United were in advanced talks to lure Ramos away from Madrid and lodged a bid of £28.6 million, as reported by at the time. Ramos later admitted he had seriously considered the move before ultimately committing to a new five-year deal in Spain.

  "I stayed where I should have stayed, Real Madrid, but I was indeed close to playing for United," he admitted in a 2023 interview with "It was not to be, but I do keep that admiration for the club, to the Premier League and the players, because the rhythm of play, the pace is different, and it's a league we can all learn a great deal from, all of us."

  United made another attempt in 2023, tabling a late proposal worth around £73,000 per week, but Ramos dismissed it almost immediately. According to reports at , the swiftness of his refusal surprised United officials, who had taken too long to finalise their terms. 

• A sentimental homecoming at Sevilla

  After snubbing United, Ramos returned to Sevilla, the club where he came through the academy and began his professional career two decades earlier. He accepted a significantly reduced salary to make the move happen, describing it as an obligation to his family and to the memory of Antonio Puerta, the former Sevilla player who died in 2007 and with whom Ramos had forged a close bond.

  "I think it was a debt to my grandfather, to my father, to Sevillismo, to (Antonio) Puerta [a former Sevilla player who died in 2007], and many things that have meant a lot," the player shared. "I think it was time."

• Getty
  

  A career etched into football history

  With 180 caps for Spain, more than any male player in the nation’s history, he was central to the side that lifted the World Cup in 2010 and claimed back-to-back European Championships. His tenure at Real Madrid brought five La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns, while his reputation for clutch goals, fearless defending and indomitable presence has endured across generations. However, it remains to be seen whether his ageing legs have enough gas to sustain the high intensity of the Premier League.

The Blue Jays may have just gotten a massive boost after reaching their first World Series in 32 years.

Shortly after beating the Mariners in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series Monday night, All-Star shortstop Bo Bichette said he plans to be active for Toronto's matchup with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Bichette hasn't played since injuring his knee sliding into home plate against the Yankees on Sept. 6. The 27-year-old has been forced to watch the entire postseason from the dugout, but finally feels like he's healthy enough to return.

During the postgame celebration after the Blue Jays beat Seattle 4–3 in Game 7, Bichette was asked if he'd be able to play in the Fall Classic. He had a confident answer.

"I'll be ready," Bichette said.

If he can come back, that is a big addition to a Toronto team that needs to find any advantage it can against the heavily-favored Dodgers. The defending World Series champions have almost no weaknesses, so the Blue Jays have to bring their best to the table. They're significantly better with their starting shortstop in the lineup.

Bichette put up big numbers in 2025

Bichette had one of his best seasons in 2025 and had he not missed time in September, it may have actually been best. If you don't count two partial seasons in 2019 and 2020, he notched career-bests in batting average (.311), on-base percentage (.357), OPS (.840), and wRC+ (134) in 2025. He also added 18 home runs, 94 RBIs, and racked up 3.8 fWAR.

He'll be a free agent as soon as the World Series is over, and now it appears he'll definitely play more games in a Blue Jays uniform before that happens.

India await in second assignment of women’s summer, but new head coach likes what she’s seen so far

Valkerie Baynes08-Jun-2025England Women can expect a tougher test of their new set-up when India arrive later this month, after West Indies’ tour ended in 3-0 sweeps of both T20I and ODI series.Such results don’t appear to be optimal preparation for the world’s No.2 ODI side to take on third-ranked rivals and World Cup hosts India. However, they provided a confidence boost after the nadir of six months ago, and allowed the hosts to experiment, gleaning some valuable insights in the process.It turns out the solution to their top-order conundrum in the 50-over format had been staring them in the face all along. England’s depth of talent has so often been boasted about as a welcome product of the professionalisation of the domestic women’s game, but by bringing that to the fore rather than leaving it in the background amid a reluctance to tinker, they have strengthened their batting and bowling options.”We are under no illusions that we are going to have tougher times ahead,” Charlotte Edwards, England’s new head coach, said on Saturday. “But equally, what we are seeing already is that appetite for people to want to keep getting better too – they can’t stand still because there’s someone probably in county cricket now scoring runs who’s winning games of cricket.”Reuniting Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont as openers after five years was hugely successful, with both scoring back-to-back centuries in twin partnerships worth more than 200 each across the first two games. So too was the introduction of Linsey Smith and Em Arlott to the ODI bowling ranks.So much so that, in the third and final ODI in Taunton on Saturday, Jones dropped back to the middle order (where she wasn’t required) and Beaumont was rested along with Smith, coincidentally just as it was announced that fellow left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone would take a wellbeing break with a view to feeling ready to take on India.Charlotte Edwards wants to be able to pick from a pool of 25 players for every England match•Getty ImagesArlott, who made her international debut during the T20I leg of the tour and was rested for the second ODI, returned with devastating effect on Saturday, taking two wickets for one run in the space of six balls as West Indies lurched to 3 for 4 inside four overs.Meanwhile, Sarah Glenn made her first appearance of the series in Taunton and took 3 for 21 after a five-hour rain delay to help contain West Indies to 106 for 8 from 21 overs. She was subsequently named player of the match as England cruised to a nine-wicket victory with Nat Sciver-Brunt scoring an unbeaten 57 opening alongside Sophia Dunkley.Emma Lamb, who like Arlott and Smith had been called up after dominating the start of the domestic 50-over competition, scored a quick-fire 55 in the second ODI before making way for Alice Capsey to move up to No. 3 and score 20 not out.Of course England had the luxury to try just about anything against an already under-strength West Indies who travelled without injured big hitters Chinelle Henry and Deandra Dottin and were further depleted when star allrounder and captain Hayley Matthews succumbed to a shoulder problem. Matthews had been player of the T20I series, despite her side failing to win a match but was ruled out of the second and third ODIs after aggravating the injury while fielding in the first in Derby.Related

• Amy Jones: 'Setting the tone is a cool responsibility'

• Jones, Beaumont make back-to-back centuries as England seal 2-0 lead

• Hayley Matthews out of third ODI against England with shoulder injury

• Nat Sciver-Brunt 57* leads England to 3-0 sweep in rain-wrecked final ODI

• Ecclestone to take time away from cricket to prioritise wellbeing

But the fact that the third ODI amounted to batting practice for England’s regular middle-order, who had up to that point been under-used, and that a re-jigged bowling line-up got their job done illustrated that their desired competition for places has arrived – something not present for the failed T20 World Cup and Ashes campaigns.”It is going to be difficult to pick teams moving forward,” Edwards added, “but that’s the place we wanted to be and we don’t want to be picking from 15 or 16 players. We want to be picking from a pool of 25 players, which I genuinely think we are now. We’ve probably got there quicker than I thought we would.”A significant factor has been Edwards’ insistence on England-contracted players playing domestic cricket in the lead-up to the West Indies series.While some will rest ahead of India’s arrival, others were set to leave the ODI squad and rejoin their domestic teams for the Vitality Blast as early as Sunday.”There’s a group of fast bowlers now really vying for a few spots,” Edwards added. “I don’t think we’ve had that, probably in the last five years, in terms of about five or six bowlers who could all open the bowling for England. And a really good group of batters who are really pushing each other to get better and better, which I think is a really healthy place to be in as a team. It makes it harder for us now to select teams, but equally more exciting for us moving forward.”England play five T20Is against India starting at Trent Bridge on June 28, followed by three ODIs. And while Edwards admitted that, with this year’s World Cup in mind, she would have preferred to have played more ODIs, England will host the T20 World Cup in a year’s time.”That’s why we played around with the team a little bit today,” she said. “But equally, we understand that the T20 format is a format that, for next summer is really important as well, so we’ll manage that.Linsey Smith took her chances after a long period out of the selectors’ thoughts•ECB via Getty Images”We absolutely know that, in a couple of weeks’ time at Trent Bridge, that’s going to be tough. They’re one of the best teams in the world, they’ve got some of the best players, so we’re going to have to be right on it when we get to the 28th of June. But we’ve taken a lot of confidence from this and that’s the most important thing. We can only play what’s in front of us and we’ll look to do that again when we play against India.”West Indies failed to qualify for the 50-over World Cup immediately before heading to England. That they couldn’t put up more of a fight in the T20Is, despite knocking England out of that World Cup last October, was unsurprising given their over-reliance on Matthews.There were some small highlights for West Indies, who will return home to host South Africa in the first of three ODIs starting on Wednesday, then three T20Is.At just 20 years of age, Realeanna Grimmond offered cause for optimism with her half-century on ODI debut in the second game in Leicester, as did 21-year-old Jannillea Glasgow with a 24-ball 44. But their development, along with that of teenage quick Jahzara Claxton is a long-term project.Shane Deitz, West Indies head coach, expected to have Henry back to face South Africa and said Matthews’ recovery would be managed through that series, but Dottin remained another month away from full fitness.”We had a chance to bring some players in and that’s what we’re looking for,” Deitz said. “Our season, so to speak, begins in February next year – 2026 is a massive year for us. We’ve got 15 ODIs that obviously go for the next World Cup qualification, a Test match [against Australia] and a World Cup.”What we do over the next eight months off the playing field is going to be the key thing for our performance next year. We’ve got a lot of things we can work on off the field, the team culture and then a lot of fitness and skill work. We’ve got a great opportunity now to play a few games against South Africa and then have a really good off-field programme for seven or eight months, and then come back in 2026 and take on the rest of the world.”

Gary Neville thought taking the Valencia job in December 2015 would begin his route to eventually becoming England manager; instead, his four-month stint in Spain drained his confidence, made him ill and put him off coaching for life. Neville's was a shock appointment as the former Manchester United defender took over one of the biggest clubs in La Liga despite having no club coaching experience, little knowledge of Spanish football and no grasp of the language.

It was widely accepted that the ex-England full-back had got the job due to his business relationship with Valencia owner Peter Lim, whose popularity at the Mestalla was already waning one year after buying the club.

Neville, who later admitted he accepted the offer as a favour to Lim after he invested in his businesses, including Salford City, had only retired from playing four years previously. He was at the height of his career as a star pundit on , famed for his no-holds-barred opinions. Thus him being parachuted in as coach of one of the top clubs in Europe, six-time La Liga winners and two-time Champions League finalists, felt like an experiment dreamed up by reality television producers – and it made for gripping, car-crash viewing.

• Getty
  

  'Not a club for apprentices'

  Many past coaches had earned the Valencia job through years of hard work on the touchlines, and so for Neville it was a first job that was too good to turn down. He said at his presentation, which was attended by scores of British journalists: "If I’d have turned down this job, I could have said goodbye to my credibility in football because it’s a massive club and I’m honoured and proud to be here. Sitting on television, talking about coaches for these last few years, the time had come for me to stand up."

  England’s then-director of football Dan Ashworth egged Neville on, telling him it was "the perfect move" to eventually succeed Roy Hodgson as Three Lions' boss, perhaps as soon as the following summer once Euro 2016 was out of the way.

  But before he had begun work, Neville was given a warning by club legend Santi Canizares, who said: "Being a good analyst is not the same as being a good coach. Valencia is not a team for experiments, it’s not a place for a coach to get his apprenticeship. It is one thing to give your opinion and another to get things working on the pitch."

  Canizares was soon proven right. Valencia were beaten 2-0 by Lyon in Neville’s first game in the dugout as they exited the Champions League group stage. Neville demonstrated his lack of experience when he turned his 4-3-3 formation into a 4-2-4 in search of an equaliser, but all he succeeded in doing was cede the midfield to Lyon, who soon scored again.

Advertisement

• Getty
  

  Embarrassed by Barcelona

  Neville made a worrying start in La Liga too, taking just two points from his first three games. In his fourth, Valencia held Real Madrid to a 2-2 draw, a result which led to Los Blancos sacking Rafa Benitez, but no corner was turned as Los Che went more than two months without winning a league game. 

  There was some respite in the Copa del Rey, though their cup run ended in harrowing fashion as they were slaughtered 7-0 by Barcelona in their semi-final first leg at Camp Nou. Neville's television colleague Jamie Carragher watched that game from the press box, laughing his head off as each goal went in, while on the touchline, Luis Enrique showed no mercy, keeping Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar on the pitch until the end before snubbing Neville’s attempt at a handshake after the game.

  Neville felt the then Barca coach was "sending a message that I didn’t belong" before he then faced a firing squad made up of the Valencia media, several of whom urged Neville to resign during the post-match press conference.

  Fans did the same, chanting 'Gary go now' in the stands of Mestalla, while one individual waited for Neville as he got off the bus after one away game, urging him to go home.

  "I lost my confidence," Neville later recalled. "It got to the point where I didn’t even want to take training sessions – I was handing it over to my coaches. I felt embarrassed doing the sessions in broken English where everything was done through a translator."

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Set on fire

  Neville ended a 10-match wait for his first victory in La Liga when his side overcame Espanyol, and they followed that up with victory at Granada and a 10-0 aggregate win over Rapid Vienna in the Europa League. Things were starting to look up, and Neville was feeling hopeful when he took a group of journalists out to lunch in early March.

  But it proved to be a false dawn. Valencia lost five of their next seven games in all competitions, including being knocked out of the Europe by Athletic Club on away goals. The final straw for Lim was a 2-0 defeat in mid-March at home to Celta Vigo, which left Valencia six points above the relegation zone. By contrast, when Neville took over, they were only five points off the Champions League positions. 

  The defeat to Celta came the day after the Las Fallas festivities, when Valencia locals set effigies on fire, and among them was one with Neville’s face attached to it along with the 7-0 scoreline against Barcelona. By the end of the game that followed, the chants of ‘Gary go now’ were deafening, and Neville was swiftly informed by Lim that he was going to be relieved of his duties, although the announcement did not come until 10 days later.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• Getty
  

  Communication problems

  Neville had few allies during his short-lived spell in Spain. "I came out of many press conferences feeling like I’d been given a right grilling," he recalled. "There were no fellow managers putting their arm around me either."

  Athletic Club manager Ernesto Valverde changed his system three times in one game and Neville had no response: "He toyed with me like I was a little puppet. I could feel it on the touchline. That’s what inexperience feels like."

  Then there was Diego Simeone, whom Neville felt was "strangling me gently, he was almost torturing me in football terms over 90 minutes" as Atletico Madrid stormed to victory at Mestalla.

  Neville approved Valencia hiring the former Liverpool assistant Pako Ayesteran to help him communicate his ideas in February 2016 and insisted that when he left, so would Ayesteran. Goalkeeper Diego Alves did not understand the news when Neville first explained it, believing the coach was resigning and told him not to. As it turned out, Neville was gone a few weeks later, with Ayesteran replacing him.

  "The biggest problem Gary had was not being able to express himself," Ayesteran said later. "It is not the same through a translator: you can’t transmit the same passion, the same emotion." Indeed, Spanish television show poked fun at his communication problems almost weekly. Take his hilarious exchange with the Granada manager Jose Sandoval, who accused Neville of "protesting all game". Neville responded: "No protesta, no protesta. F*ck off."

They meet United in Qualifier 1, while Qalandars and Kings face off in the Eliminator

Danyal Rasool20-May-2025PSL 2025 is nearing an end, having completed the group stages in Rawalpindi following a brief suspension two weeks ago. The game between Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi was an effective knockout – the most consequential of the four group games since the league’s resumption. The tournament now moves to Lahore, where it will stay till the final on May 25. Quetta Gladiators and Islamabad United kickstart the playoffs with Qualifier 1, while arch-rivals Qalandars and Karachi Kings face off in the Eliminator. ESPNcricinfo looks at how each team’s campaign has unfolded, and what it tells us about the season’s denouement.

Quetta Gladiators

There was a sliding-doors moment for Gladiators two weeks into the tournament. They had played just three games due to a quirk of the scheduling, having lost two convincingly, and were on track to make it three losses in four against Kings. Kings needed 66 runs off the remaining 69 balls with nine wickets in hand when the Gladiators bowlers somehow found a second wind. Gladiators eventually pulled out a five-run win, which forced the Kings captain David Warner to remark that his side had handed the opposition the game.Catalysed, Gladiators have become an unstoppable behemoth since. They won all their remaining completed matches, finishing three points clear of the field at the top of the table. Abrar Ahmed has been arguably the best legspinner this season, second on the wickets charts with an economy rate under 7.50. Mohammad Amir and Khurram Shahzad have each made match-winning contributions, while Faheem Ashraf has rediscovered some of his better all-round form.At the top, captain Saud Shakeel opening the batting is arguably a point of weakness, but there is significant power hitting among Gladiators’ ranks elsewhere. Finn Allen and Rilee Rossouw will return for the playoffs, while local players Hasan Nawaz and Khawaja Nafay can inflict damage in their own right. With two bites at a spot in the final, Gladiators look well-poised for a first final since they won their only title six years ago.United’s Sahibzada Farhan and Alex Hales form arguably the best opening combination this PSL•PCB

Islamabad United

Maybe what separates United’s genius from their madness is just hindsight. The defending champions were heavily criticised for throwing away their momentum after they appeared to be running away with the league after winning their first five matches. They then rested five players for the sixth game, and duly got pounded by Qalandars. That lightning in a bottle they had captured suddenly gone, United lost four on the bounce, and were in slight danger of missing out on the playoffs altogether.The break, though, has done them good. The old United was back in its full pomp in a dismantling of Kings that saw them claim a place in the qualifier alongside Gladiators. In this kind of form, there is perhaps no side that can truly live with United.Alex Hales showed himself to be the perfect replacement with Colin Munro no longer available, and alongside Sahibzada Farhan, forms arguably the best opening combination in the league. Shadab Khan is having another excellent all-round season, while no bowler with as many wickets as Imad Wasim is nearly as economical as his 7.06. With Ben Dwarshuis, Tymal Mills and Salman Irshad as the frontline quicks, United’s weakness perhaps lies in the absence of a truly premium fast bowler, but they have plenty of cover elsewhere to compensate. United are a team that can blow hot and cold, though Monday, when they thumped 251 batting first against Kings, suggests, ominously for the league, that there will be more of the former than the latter.Kings captain David Warner has taken to the PSL with surprising enthusiasm, while James Vince is the second-highest run-scorer this season•PCB

Karachi Kings

Kings missed out on each of the last three playoffs, so there’s progress already. It has been something of a stop-start season as Kings alternated between wins and losses for the first six games, before doing just enough to secure passage to the playoffs ahead of the league’s temporary suspension. The hammering at United’s hands, though, was a reminder of the gap that exists between Kings’ average performances and the very best at the top of the league.Kings have never truly managed to build up a head of steam this season, and just as they strung three wins together, they found themselves railroaded into the Eliminator by United. Their top three is as imposing as any in the league, with Warner, who has taken to the PSL and this Kings project, with surprising enthusiasm. Tim Seifert and James Vince, the second-highest run-scorer this season, flank him. Mohammad Nabi is the most economical spinner, while Abbas Afridi is the highest wicket-taker, and Hasan Ali is not far behind, even if they have tended to be expensive.It is Kings’ domestic core in the middle order, though, that may expose a soft underbelly. Khushdil Shah has exploded into life from time to time, but there is an air of vulnerability beyond the top three which Kings haven’t quite shaken off. It is what led to that infamous collapse against Gladiators early in the season, and, on Monday against United, Kings lost seven wickets for 34 runs – they went from 80 for 1 to 114 for 8 – to seal their fate.Fakhar Zaman has a strike rate of 155.04 in PSL 2025

Lahore Qalandars

Qalandars came within one match of exiting in the first round for the seventh time in ten years, but produced a clutch performance in a rain-shortened game to ward off that fate. Much like Kings, Qalandars’ season has waxed and waned. Consistency has proved elusive, but enough individuals in their squad have come up with performances when points on the board were needed.Qalandars remain heavily dependent on the timeless Fakhar Zaman, the third-highest run-scorer in the league; he has a superior strike rate to the top two. After an uncertain start, his opening partner Mohammad Naeem’s flashes of brilliance give Qalandars firepower up top without needing to turn to overseas players. Rounding off the domestic top three is Abdullah Shafique, who also ranks among the top eight for runs. Throw in a strike rate of 147.15, and flying powerplay starts are almost guaranteed.Qalandars’ major worry lies at the other end. Their charge to successive PSL titles came courtesy of a world-class bowling attack in Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Zaman Khan and Rashid Khan. They still have three of those four, but none has proved remotely as effective. Haris’ economy is a staggering 10.66, the highest of all specialist bowlers in the tournament.Qalandars have also been most affected by player departures. Daryl Mitchell, Sam Billings and Sikandar Raza, all key contributors at various stages, will not be available during the playoffs, and though the Qalandars have drafted in Kusal Perera, Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Shakib al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, it remains to be seen whether those shoes have been filled.