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“We’d love to win tomorrow and silence the crowd,” Labuschagne further said about Afghanistan getting a de facto home crowd in Lahore

Danyal Rasool27-Feb-20252:05

Are Afghanistan the second best white-ball team in Asia?

Marnus Labuschagne has “no issues” playing against Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy on Friday. The two sides take each other on in their final group game in Lahore with plenty on the line for both; victory for either side guarantees qualification to the semi-finals.However, invariably, there is attention around Australia’s decision to boycott any bilateral cricket against Afghanistan in protest at the Taliban’s policy to ban women and girls in the country from playing cricket, and their broader social exclusion. Australia have continued to play afghanistan in ICC events since the Taliban took over in 2021, with the two sides playing at each of the 2022 T20 World Cup, the 2023 ODI World Cup, and the 2024 T20 World Cup.”It’s an ICC tournament,” Labuschagne said. “And our game, as the schedule came out, we’re playing Afghanistan. Personally, for me, which I can speak of, I’ve got no issues about playing tomorrow. But obviously there has been some stances from us at Cricket Australia in the past. But we’re just focusing on tomorrow where we are playing Afghanistan.”Related

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Australia are not the only side to opt for different approaches to bilateral and ICC events when playing Afghanistan. On Wednesday, England’s game against Afghanistan went ahead after the ECB rejected calls by dozens of UK politicians to boycott the game. Afghanistan’s English coach, Jonathan Trott, told the BBC earlier this week the men’s team knew the situation in Afghanistan was “not right”, and a number of Afghanistan players over the last year have put out public statements of protest against the increasing restrictions on Afghan women in public life. Afghanistan eventually won a close contest by eight runs to eliminate England from the tournament.It leaves them within touching distance of making the semi-finals of their second successive ICC event in front of what is likely to be a de facto home crowd in Lahore. It is something Australia have plenty of experience dealing with.”We’d love to win tomorrow and silence the crowd,” Labuschagne said. “But for us it’s all about making sure we stick to our process and really engage in the game. We must be ready to play and whatever gets thrown at us – doesn’t matter what the situation is – that we come out and perform at our best.”However, they may not even get that chance. Australia’s training was forced indoors due to rain in Lahore on Thursday, while Afghanistan cancelled an optional training session. There is further heavy rain forecast overnight, as well as for the earlier part of Friday. Eight years after multiple rain-affected games saw Australia eliminated from the 2017 Champions Trophy in the group stages, a rained-out game here would have the opposite result; it guarantees Australian progression to the semi-finals.”I think as players you always want to play,” Labuschagne said. “Obviously, if the whole match rains out, I think that means that we go through to the to the semi-finals – but obviously we’d love to be able to win the game tomorrow and finish top in the pool. I think that’s something that we want to aim to do and make sure we’ve won all our matches leading up to the semi-finals. But those things are out of our control, so I will have to make sure we’re ready to go tomorrow if it is a shortened fixture.”

Crystal Palace are looking to source fresh reinforcements and could now be set to close in on their next signing after making a decisive move in recent days.

Crystal Palace prepare for FA Community Shield clash

After their historic FA Cup victory, Crystal Palace have the chance to claim another piece of silverware in the FA Community Shield against Liverpool at Wembley this weekend.

Speaking ahead of the tie, Oliver Glasner has confirmed the Eagles will go all out to win the trophy despite being up against the odds in light of the Reds’ status as Premier League champions.

“We are facing the champions. A team who invested £300m, buying high-quality players. It is a great challenge. We will be ready. I don’t expect they will be in the best possible shape, the same with us at the beginning of the season.

“We will go for winning the next trophy. When you have the chance to win a second trophy in three months, go for it.”

Eberechi Eze has been frequently linked with a move to Arsenal, which reports suggest could turn Crystal Palace in the direction of West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta should their star man move across London.

Tosin Adarabioyo is also on the Eagles’ radar and could become a statement addition if circumstances align, though it remains to be seen where Glasner will opt to strengthen with less than two weeks until the Premier League season kicks off.

Now, the Eagles may be moving closer to announcing a new addition ahead of their return to competitive action, according to reports.

Crystal Palace make decisive move for Arnau Martinez

According to Tuttosport, Crystal Palace have made a decisive move to sign Girona full-back Arnau Martinez, who is also said to be a target for West Ham United and Juventus.

Said to be available between £8.7 million and £10.4 million, the Eagles have stepped up their efforts in a decisive manner and they hold the advantage of recently negotiating with Girona to sanction Odsonne Edouard’s potential move to the La Liga outfit.

As pictured, the former Celtic striker is still on the books and no deal has been sealed yet, but effectively carrying out two transfers between both entities would potentially be advantageous to Crystal Palace in terms of profit margins.

Martinez, who is predominantly a right-back, featured 39 times last season for Girona across all competitions, registering three goals and three assists.

Labelled “intelligent” by scout Jacek Kulig, the Spain Under-21 cap made 18 chances in La Liga last term and appears to fit Crystal Palace’s exciting style of play from full-back, though it remains to be seen whether they will win the race for his signature.

Newcastle United might not be able to count on Alexander Isak for much longer as the player seeks a move away from St James’ Park.

Eddie Howe will now need to sign a striker or two in order to have his squad ready for the Premier League and Champions League campaigns.

Benjamin Sesko is a reported target for the club, and Newcastle would be willing to break their club-record transfer fee to sign him.

Could Howe perhaps chase another young striker instead, however? One who is even more prolific than Sesko…

Newcastle’s search for a striker

The likes of Julian Alvarez and Yoane Wissa have been earmarked as targets by Howe to bolster the club’s attacking options of late.

Both would be excellent signings, but Howe could go down a different route by making a move for Porto starlet Samu Aghehowa this summer.

That is according to the Guardian, who relay information that Newcastle might see Aghehowa as a potential alternative to Sesko.

One sticking point may be the price, as he has a release clause of €100m (£87m), although it remains to be seen whether Howe can negotiate a potential deal.

Aged just 21, he could be an ideal long-term Isak heir and, dare I say it, even better than Sesko.

Why Newcastle want to sign Samu Aghehowa

Across his senior career thus far, Sesko has scored 90 goals across 210 games, which works out as a goal every 2.3 matches.

In comparison, Aghehowa has netted 54 goals in 117 matches during his embryonic senior career thus far, averaging a goal every 2.1 matches.

On this basis, the young Spaniard is even more prolific than Sesko, and there is no doubt that he will get even better over the next few years.

He burst into life during his maiden season with Porto. Aside from registering 30 goal contributions in all competitions, Aghehowa also finished the season with a 23% goal conversion percentage, created five big chances and scored every 119 minutes in the Portuguese top flight.

Matches (starts)

30 (23)

Goals

19

Assists

3

Shots (on target)*

2.7 (1.1)

Big chances missed

18

Pass completion

79%

Big chances created

5

Key passes*

0.6

Dribbles*

0.4

Duels won*

3.3

It was no wonder that talent scout Jacek Kulig hailed the youngster as a “monster in the making” and for having “such a complete profile” after just a few months at Porto.

His debut campaign was a successful one indeed from a personal point of view, and it is no surprise he is being linked with moves to the Premier League.

When compared to his peers across men’s next 14 competitions, the 21-year-old ranks in the top 4% for goals (0.76) per 90.

Furthermore, the striker ranks in the top 14% for touches in the opposition penalty area (5.45) per 90 and in the top 16% for total shots per 90 (3.1).

These statistics show just how prolific the player is in front of goal, and if Howe was serious about making a move for the youngster, Aghehowa could be a wonderful signing.

Much will depend on how far they are willing to take their interest in Sesko. But if the Magpies are looking for someone even more prolific, Aghehowa should be at the top of their list.

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Arsenal have officially announced the signing of Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP, taking sporting director Andrea Berta’s summer spending past the £200 million mark – which means exits could be necessary.

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Gyokeres has joined the Gunners for an initial fee of around £55 million, a number that could rise to £64 million with add-ons (The Athletic), after the Sweden international travelled to London this weekend for a medical.

The 27-year-old’s 54 goals in all competitions last season suggests that Gyokeres could be worth every penny if all goes to plan, with the lack of a prolific number nine long viewed as the missing piece of Mikel Arteta’s jigsaw.

However, following their deals for Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Noni Madueke and Cristhian Mosquera on top of Gyokeres, Berta has now spent hundreds of millions on reinforcing Arteta’s squad.

If Arsenal manage to sign Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze too, with the Eagles reportedly holding out for his £68 million release clause, the north Londoners could end this transfer window spending closer to £300 million.

Taking this into account, and the fact Arsenal currently boast the third-highest wage bill in the Premier League, Berta’s next priority is sealing some departures as well as potentially striking an agreement for Eze.

With PSR lingering in the background, top flight clubs are only permitted a loss of around £105 million over a rolling three-year period. If Arsenal surpass this limit, they face sanctions.

So far, there have been no indications that the club are in any real danger of this, but Berta still needs to monitor the club’s revenues/spending.

Gabriel Jesus gives green-light to leave Arsenal as Flamengo prepare offer

According to South American news outlet RTI Esporte, Flamengo have held talks with striker Gabriel Jesus, and they’re preparing to make an audacious loan-to-buy bid for the Brazilian.

Jesus has apparently gave the “green light” to negotiate a move to Flamengo, and if a move materialises, the clubs would split his £265,000-per-week wages 50/50. Flamengo’s interest comes despite the former Man City star’s lengthy lay-off, with Jesus currently out of action after sustaining an ACL rupture in Arsenal’s FA Cup defeat to Man United last season.

With Gyokeres arriving, the 28-year-old will have to compete with both Arsenal’s new signing and Kai Havertz for a place up front once he returns to full fitness, so a temporary move away could suit all parties as Arsenal look to trim their salary books.

Jesus enjoyed a purple patch of form under Arteta last season – grabbing six goals and an assist in all competitions from early December to January after a lot of criticism – with his injury coming at an extremely unfortunate time.

كشف الإعلامي أحمد شوبير عن تفاصيل جديدة تتعلق بعدد من اللاعبين الأساسيين في النادي الأهلي، وموقفهم من المشاركة في المباريات القادمة، مؤكدًا أن الجهاز الفني يتعامل بحذر مع الملف البدني تجنبًا لتفاقم الإصابات.

قال الإعلامي أحمد شوبير في تصريحات عبر برنامجه الإذاعي صباح اليوم الإثنين: “هناك حالة قلق بخصوص موقف بيكهام ومحمد بن رمضان، وهذا ما دفع عماد النحاس لمنحهما يومين متتاليين من الاستشفاء والراحة، ويبدو أن اللاعبين كانا في حاجة فعلًا لهذا القرار”.

وتابع: “اليوم سيتم حسم موقف بيكهام وكذلك أشرف بن شرقي، لكن لو كنت مكان الجهاز الفني، فلن أشرك بيكهام أو رمضان، ومن الأفضل منحهما وقتًا إضافيًا للراحة حتى تعود الأمور إلى طبيعتها”.

وواصل: “بالأمس قرر عماد النحاس إراحة مجموعة من اللاعبين خوفًا من الإجهاد، وهم: كوكا، تريزيجيه، مروان عطية، محمد هاني، طاهر، ياسر، ومحمد شريف”.

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وأضاف: “أما كريم فؤاد فما زال غير محظوظ، فبعدما اقترب من التعافي بشكل كامل انضم للمنتخب بقيادة حلمي طولان، لكنه حتى الآن لم يتعافَ بنسبة 100%، وبالتالي لا يزال بعيدًا عن المشاركة، وبالنسبة لبن شرقي، فهو في حالة جيدة ولا يعاني من إصابة خطيرة”.

وأشار شوبير: “أشرف داري سيلحق بمباراة الزمالك، بينما أحمد سيد زيزو يجاهد من أجل المشاركة، لكن من وجهة نظري الشخصية ستكون مشاركته صعبة”.

وأوضح: “أما إمام عاشور فقد غادر بسلامة الله، لكنه ما زال بحاجة للراحة، وسيخضع لبرنامج غذائي وفحوصات طبية جديدة بعد أسبوع لضمان عودته بنسبة 100%. من البداية قلت إن الأمر يحتاج شهرًا كاملًا على الأقل منذ إصابته في مباراة إنبي وحتى عودته للملاعب”.

واستكمل: “لا يجب الحديث الآن عن تجديد العقود أو غيره، الأولوية لصحة اللاعب، فالصحة أهم من أي شيء، ونسأل الله له الشفاء والعافية”.

واختتم شوبير: “زيزو يريد بأي طريقة أن يلحق بمباراة الزمالك، لكنني أقولها بوضوح: لا توجد مباراة في العالم، حتى لو كانت نهائي كأس العالم، أهم من صحة اللاعب، الأهم أن يعود سليمًا ومعافى ليقدم أفضل ما لديه عند العودة”.

Everton are now close to signing a “strong” £34 million player after agreeing personal terms, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Everton set to turn to alternative targets after missing out on Tete

Signing a new right-back has become one of David Moyes’ priorities in this transfer window, as the club decided to let Ashley Young leave, following the expiration of his contract. Seamus Coleman has signed a new one-year deal to remain, but Moyes wants more competition in that area of the team and earmarked Fulham’s Kenny Tete as a target.

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The Toffees were confident of landing the defender after discussing details over a contract, but instead, Tete decided to sign a new contract at Fulham and remain at Craven Cottage. The right-back has extended his stay until 2028 and believes Fulham is a “special club where he can develop”.

This news means Everton have to continue their search for a new right-back, and the BBC have reported that alternative targets for the Toffees could include Kyle Walker-Peters, who is a free agent after leaving Southampton, or Vladimir Coufal, who is also a free agent and knows Moyes well from their time at West Ham.

While they assess their options for a new right-back, the Premier League side appear to be closing in on their second signing of the summer.

Everton close to signing £34m Barry after agreeing personal terms

According to Romano, Everton are now close to signing striker Thierno Barry from Spanish side Villarreal.

The Italian states that the deal has advanced, as the Toffees and the player have now agreed personal terms; all that remains are the final details, and then this transfer is complete.

It’s been widely reported that Barry has a release clause worth £34 million, and Villarreal’s sporting director, Fernando Roig Nogueroles, has been clear that if the player is to leave, it will be for around that price.

He said: “We want the player, and if he were to leave, it would have to be, if not for the release clause, something very close to it. If not, he won’t leave.”

Thierno Barry’s 24/25 La Liga stats

Apps

35

Starts

25

Goals

11

xG

12.41

Goals per game

0.3

Shots on target per game

0.7

Goal conversion

15%

Assists

4

xAG

1.95

Big chances created

7

The Toffees are said to be prepared to pay that sum of money but may look to pay in installments to reach that figure in total. The arrival of Barry, who has been dubbed a “strong physique”, has just got more important for Everton, as on Monday, Dominic Calvert-Lewin announced that he was leaving the club following the end of his contract, meaning options at the top end of the pitch have just become even lighter.

Barry’s expected arrival will likely see him become Moyes’ regular striker, as his physical presence and stature make him the perfect striker in a Moyes team.

Leeds United have now made an approach to sign a “true gladiator”, who could replace Junior Firpo, according to reporter Ben Jacobs.

Leeds eyeing new defenders amid Firpo uncertainty

Firpo’s Elland Road future has been up in the air for quite some time, and the left-back is now looking increasingly likely to be heading for the exit door this summer, with Real Betis recently submitting a proposal to re-sign their former player.

The Dominican Republic international is out of contract at the end of this month, and Daniel Farke’s side have now started running the rule over potential replacements, with widespread reports suggesting Aston Villa left-back Alex Moreno is of interest.

With Firpo set to leave for nothing, however, there may be a desire to bring in a replacement on a free transfer, and Jacobs has now taken to X to reveal the Whites have now made contact over a deal to sign a new target.

Indeed, according to the GiveMeSport correspondent, Leeds have now made an approach for Atletico Madrid defender Reinildo, who is set to be available on a free transfer upon the expiration of his contract after the upcoming Club World Cup.

There may be competition for the left-back’s signature from within the Premier League, however, with Sunderland and Nottingham Forest making proposals of their own, while the defender also has “options” from Turkey and Saudi Arabia.

"True gladiator" Reinildo has experience at the highest level

The Mozambique international was a bit-part player for Atletico Madrid in the 2024-25 campaign, making 19 La Liga appearances and often being left on the bench, but he is experienced at the top level, having tested himself in the Champions League and Europa League.

Once lauded as a “true gladiator” by scout Jacek Kulig, the 31-year-old’s experience could be useful in helping Leeds avoid the drop next season, but there are some doubts over whether he would be an upgrade on Firpo.

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In fact, the 28-year-old has even outperformed Reinildo across some key metrics for defenders over the past year, despite being more well-known for his ability on the front foot, having picked up 14 goal contributions in the Championship last season.

Average per 90

Reinildo

Junior Firpo

Tackles

2.13

2.27

Clearances

2.82

3.51

Aerials won

0.89

2.10

As such, despite Reinildo’s top-level experience, the evidence doesn’t suggest that he would be a real upgrade on Firpo, and it may be worth Farke giving his current left-back a second chance to prove himself in the Premier League, should a move to Betis fail to materialise.

Manchester United’s recent fortunes would suggest that a place in the Europa League final isn’t quite guaranteed, not just yet, although Ruben Amorim’s men certainly have one foot in the showpiece following a stunning first-leg triumph on Thursday night.

Up against an Athletic Bilbao side who had conceded just 12 goals at home all season in LaLiga and in European competition combined, the Red Devils romped to a brutal 3-0 win in San Mames, maintaining their unbeaten run in this year’s edition.

After a nervy opening – which saw Inaki Williams notably guide his effort over the crossbar – the visitors took control through Casemiro’s backpost header, before ever-reliable skipper, Bruno Fernandes, converted from the penalty spot following a last-ditch foul on Rasmus Hojlund.

With Dani Vivian dismissed for the action that led to the spot-kick to compound matters for the home side, United swiftly extended their advantage just minutes later, with that man Fernandes rounding off an intricate team move just before the break.

A fourth and potentially tie-clinching goal did not emerge after the interval, although Amorim can have few complaints on a night in which his experienced heads, in particular, kept their cool.

Casemiro and Fernandes rise above the rest

If the former Sporting CP boss is to have any reason for negativity following Thursday’s convincing win, the Portuguese tactician may be concerned at the shaky start which his side endured, with Victor Lindelof notably among those to have needlessly squandered possession in the early exchanges.

Touches

Casemiro (109)

Accurate passes

Victor Lindelof (97)

Key passes

Bruno Fernandes (3)

Crosses

Bruno Fernandes (5/7)

Shots on target

Bruno Fernandes (3)

Successful dribbles

Ugarte & Sannadi (2)

Defensive actions

Casemiro (9)

Duels won

Casemiro (10)

Possession lost

Nico Williams (20)

The Swede did, thankfully, redeem himself soon after with a vital goal-line block, with Manuel Ugarte also enjoying his own in-game redemption, having shaken off a careless beginning to ultimately register two assists on the night, including a clever backheeled flick for Fernandes’ second.

Some initial nerves may have been understandable, although in the case of the captain and Casemiro, the experienced pairing proved to be “the difference again”, in the words of journalist Samuel Luckhurst, having been head and shoulders above the majority of their teammates.

For Fernandes, such a performance has simply become the norm, with the influential skipper now boasting 37 goals and assists this season in all competitions, including seven goals and four assists in the Europa League alone.

To see the 30-year-old pulling the strings is no surprise, although for his veteran teammate, this recent resurgence has been a welcome one, not least considering it appeared as if he was approaching the end of a storied career not too long ago.

Once looking like “he is playing in Soccer Aid” under Erik ten Hag last term, as per pundit Jamie Redknapp, Casemiro has been reborn in the Amorim regime, with the return to Spain seeing the former Real Madrid warrior win ten of his 12 attempted duels, alongside getting on the scoresheet.

A starter in every knockout stage game in the competition, this redemption arc continues for the 33-year-old – much like it does for Harry Maguire.

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The importance of Fernandes and Casemiro was evident as even at 3-0, Amorim opted not to rest the star duo despite making a raft of changes, with the two men simply pillars in this developing 3-4-3 system.

Performance in Numbers

Want data and stats? Football FanCast’s Performance in Numbers series provides you with the latest match analysis from across Europe.

In a similar manner, the fact that Maguire was withdrawn just after the hour mark was also a sign of his growing stature under the new regime, with Amorim unable to afford an injury setback to the 6 foot 4 Englishman.

The 32-year-old hasn’t been a stranger to periods on the sidelines this season, having actually only featured on 34 occasions, although at present he looks the real bedrock in a back three that repeatedly chops and changes with each passing game.

A player his manager previously described as “perfect” for this setup, following the extension of his contract by a further 12 months, Maguire looks at home in the centre of the defensive trio, having been largely untroubled against the Basque outfit.

There was one hairy moment just prior to his withdrawal, amid appeals from the home crowd for a red card following a ‘foul’ on Maroan Sannadi, although it was otherwise plain-sailing, with the former Leicester City man spraying passes with ease after racking up a 97% pass accuracy rate in total.

Much like last month and his stoppage time heroics to clinch victory over Lyon, it was actually his impact in the final third that was most memorable from Maguire’s outing, with the towering defender proving an unlikely menace down the right flank, before whipping in a cross that eventually found its way to Casemiro, via the head of Ugarte.

The sight of the big man twisting and turning truly was a joy to behold, with that marking another “glorious” moment – as per The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell – in the revival of a player who was memorably stripped of the captaincy by Ten Hag back in 2023.

There were even suggestions that a move to West Ham United was on the cards that summer, yet now the £190k-per-week powerhouse looks a key cog in the Amorim machine – with the aforementioned Luckhurst noting his ‘solid’ 8/10 performance on the night.

In an era of pursuing younger and younger signings, with the aim of looking to the long-term, the likes of Maguire, Casemiro and Fernandes are proving that experience and class are simply priceless.

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The decision for Liverpool to extend the contract of star centre-back Virgil van Dijk is one that has delighted supporters, undoubtedly so given his importance to Arne Slot.

He joined the Reds for a mammoth £75m back in January 2018, providing a leading presence at the heart of the defence – allowing the side to enjoy success in the Premier League.

The Dutchman has featured in every minute of their league season to date, allowing the club to be within touching distance of claiming a record-equalling 20th league triumph.

His extension takes him to the summer of 2027, having another two years to try and win even more trophies at Anfield, cementing his place as one of the best defenders to ever play the beautiful game.

However, he could be joined by one player in the backline in 2025/26, with Slot and the hierarchy both working together to complete a deal for an in-demand talent.

The latest on Liverpool’s pursuit to land Dean Huijsen this summer

In recent weeks, reports have emerged linking Liverpool with a move to land Bournemouth centre-back Dean Huijsen during the summer transfer window.

It was stated that the Reds’ hierarchy have already met the Spaniard’s representatives over a potential switch to Anfield, but they aren’t alone in their pursuit of the 20-year-old.

Chelsea, Real Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United have all also been credited with an interest in the youngster, who has a £50m release clause in his current deal at the Vitality.

However, despite the ambitions of landing Huijsen, another defensive name has emerged on their shortlist, in the form of Nottingham Forest talent Murillo.

According to CaughtOffside, the Reds hold a firm interest in his signature, but would have to pay a fee in the region of £70m for his services given the Reds’ potential top-five status come the end of the season.

Why Murillo would be a better signing than Huijsen

There’s no denying that Bournemouth star Huijsen will be at the top of many Liverpool fans’ list of targets this summer, offering Slot another dimension at the heart of his defence.

His form on the south coast has seen the Cherries battle for a place in Europe next season, leading to rumours around his future away from the club in the near future.

Given his release clause, it’s highly likely he will depart Andoni Iraola’s outfit this summer, but the Reds need to swerve a deal for his services and prioritise a move for Murillo instead.

Whilst the Brazilian would cost an additional £20m compared to the Spaniard, it’s a cost worth taking, having a much higher ceiling to thrive at the top of European football.

When comparing the pair’s respective stats from the ongoing season, the Forest star has massively outperformed Huijsen in numerous key areas – further highlighting the talent he possesses.

Murillo, who’s been labelled “one of the best defenders in the Premier League” by one analyst, has kept more clean sheets, whilst also winning more of the tackles he’s entered to date.

He’s also posted a higher tally of blocks made per 90, alongside more clearances made and aerials won – showcasing the defensive ability he possesses, subsequently playing a huge role in Forest’s success.

Games played

32

27

Clean sheets

15

7

Tackles won

1.5

1.1

Blocks made

2.1

1.4

Clearances made

7.2

6.9

Take-ons completed

79%

40%

Aerials won

66%

59%

The Brazilian has also starred with the ball at his feet, completing more of the take-ons he’s attempted, often catching the eye with his dazzling efforts.

Whilst £70m may be a huge sum for another defender, it’s a fee that is certainly worth it given the performances produced in 2024/25 – potentially being in the league’s Team of the Year.

It would take a lot of convincing to take him out of Forest’s side, given the success they’ve endured this season, but the prospect of moving to Anfield could be one that may tempt Murillo into a huge switch.

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ByEthan Lamb Apr 23, 2025

Whoever you are as a batter, the Player of the T20 World Cup has a delivery to deal with you

Andrew Fidel Fernando01-Jul-2024An angled-in length ball that zips away to clip the stumps, a series of pinpoint yorkers tailing in, a wicked offcutter, a floater into the toes, a nasty throat-high bouncer, a whole over in the channel – whoever you are, if you have held a bat and you tried to hit a cricket ball with it, our guy has something that will shake you.The ambit of this article is to discuss Player of the Tournament Jasprit Bumrah’s exploits in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. But how to hem player in to parameters? No bowler can be all things to all humans. Bumrah comes close.The obvious starting points are the aesthetic marvels. In the final, his third ball, angled in to Reeza Hendricks, pitching on a line that suggested it was heading for middle and leg, darted deviously away to catch off stump two thirds up. This is, on first sight, perhaps the ball of the tournament – the Koh-i-Noor that glitters in India’s crown. Hendricks, bless him, had no chance. It is likely no other batter in this tournament would have done either.Related

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You take that delivery, bleach the players’ clothes, put red dye into the ball, take the vast majority of the TV viewership away (sorry Test cricket, we wish you were more loved), and that off bail still does its wild somersaults. The bat still finds itself prodding balefully down the wrong line. The bowler still wheels away beaming.You could cut together a highlights reel for any bowler at this T20 World Cup, and as wonderful as many have been (Rashid Khan, Anrich Nortje, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Arshdeep Singh all had great tournaments), none have a collection of spectacular deliveries that quite have the dazzle of the Bumrah gems.If one magic ball in a major final is not enough, how’s a reverse-swinging full delivery to slip between bat and pad and graze leg stump in the 18th over (see you later, Marco Jansen)? In the semi-final, how’s a perfectly pitched offcutter to draw Phil Salt into a big shot down the ground, before spitting it past the inside edge and into the stumps? Or ball to Babar Azam on a spicy New York deck, angled in, pitched back of a length, making a mess of the batter’s decision-making, ending with a neat catch to first slip? How to match such a set for variety? For charisma?No matter what your skills are as a batter, Bumrah can find a way past your defences•Pankaj Nangia/ICC/Getty ImagesBut say you’re a sceptic/curmudgeon/pragmatist/bore. Sure, these were great deliveries, but were they not a mere handful of balls over the course of a month-long event?Not to worry. Bumrah’s got you covered.He may make more raids into the realms of the unplayable than most bowlers, but where Bumrah lives, where he has built a body of work, is by being unhittable. In this World Cup, largely played on bowler-friendly tracks, Bumrah took this bowling virtue to an extreme. No other bowler from a side that played in the Super Eight had a better economy rate than his 4.17. Of the 124 runs he conceded off 178 balls bowled, 32 runs were “not in control” by ESPNcricinfo’s measures – 26% of the runs he conceded.Bumrah had 15 wickets of his own in this tournament, but the data suggests that his magnificent control also created wicket opportunities for team-mates. Arshdeep, Bumrah’s most-frequent collaborator at the top and tail of an opposition innings, finished with 17 dismissals, equalling Farooqi’s tournament-high tally.