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Arsenal legend Ian Wright has asked a “what are you doing with this girl” question of the Gunners after seeing USWNT star Jenna Nighswonger exiled from Renee Slegers’ plans. The United States international moved to north London in January but has seen limited game time across her spell in England, with the 24-year-old defender failing to make WSL matchday squads.

How much did Arsenal spend on Nighswonger?

Nighswonger made just four appearances for Arsenal on the back of her reported $100,000 transfer from NJ/NY Gotham FC. She has slipped further out of favour in the 2025-26 campaign, with Slegers favouring alternative options.

AdvertisementGettyWho is ahead of Nighswonger at Arsenal?

Katie McCabe has been lining up at left-back, with Taylor Hinds seemingly the understudy for that role. That situation is leaving a frustrated Nighswonger watching on from afar, much to the surprise of a Gunners great.

Wright's take on surprising situation

Speaking on the podcast, Wright said: "I need some clarity on what's going on with Arsenal and Jenna. [She had] a good preseason, I'm hearing from people. [She's] more than capable of playing at this level — she's not even in the matchday squads.

If she's not injured, why did they deny her a loan move? Why would they do that? So, Arsenal, answer that. What are you doing with this girl and her career? She's 24, so we're not talking about somebody who's got the time to come over here with that upheaval. She's not 19 where you think, OK, let's give her a couple seasons. She's 24, ready to go and an international. So, Arsenal, sort that out."

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GettyWhat Slegers said about Nighswonger

Slegers has said of Nighswonger’s standing in Arsenal’s plans: “We have a very strong squad and I'm so happy with the squad and we need the squad because it's going to be a long season with a lot of games and four or five competitions to compete in so that's the starting point.

“Then, me having to make decisions on selection and players who start and finish, that's something I have to carry and that's a burden for me. It's hard, it hurts but that's part of it. I think we need the squad and it was a decision for us to have the squad because we think we need the depth.”

Liverpool’s transfer window this summer has been one for the ages – potentially going down as one of the biggest summers in the history of any side in England’s top-flight.

Before deadline day commenced, Arne Slot had already spent just shy of £300m, as he looked to build on his Premier League triumph during his debut campaign in the role.

Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Hugo Ekitiké and Giovanni Leoni have all completed their respective moves to Anfield – subsequently bolstering all areas of the pitch.

It’s clear the hierarchy have wanted to back the Dutchman after his success in the early days of his tenure on Merseyside, but looks set to continue before tonight’s 7pm deadline.

Numerous players are still on the club’s radar, with Slot and the hierarchy needing to work rapidly to get deals completed before the summer window slams shut.

The latest on Liverpool’s deal to sign Guehi

In recent hours, Liverpool’s move for Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi has progressed rapidly – leading to a £35m transfer being agreed between the two clubs.

It’s now been reported that the player is having his medical in London to complete his deal before the deadline, further improving the club’s already impressive backline.

However, he’s not the only Premier League player currently in their sights, with Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers another talent the club are considering, according to journalist Matt Thielen.

He claims that the Reds are assessing a late move for the England international, especially after Harvey Elliott agreed a deal to join Unai Emery’s side earlier today.

Any deal would be an expensive one though, with his current employers currently demanding a fee in the region of £80m to offload one of their star men this summer.

Why Liverpool’s latest target would be perfect for Isak

Alexander Isak looks set to be the most expensive player in English football history – with the saga for his move to join Liverpool finally set to come to a positive conclusion.

The Reds agreed a £125m fee with Newcastle United for the Swedish international’s signature late last night – subsequently joining for more than Wirtz did earlier in the window.

The 25-year-old has been on Merseyside all day completing his proposed transfer to join Slot’s side, with just a formal announcement left until the player’s transfer can be confirmed.

Despite the massive array of attacking talent already on the books, the Swede could be further bolstered in his attempts to be a success during his time at Anfield.

A move for Rogers would offer the club-record signing a further presence around him in the final third – with the England international having the tools to provide him with key opportunities in front of goal.

His stats from his time at Villa last season highlight the talent he possesses when in possession, with such a move being yet another statement of intent from the hierarchy.

Rogers, who has been labelled “phenomenal” by Lee Hendrie, registered 2.1 passes into the final third per 90 in the Premier League last season – highlighting his ability to progress the ball into dangerous areas.

Games played

37

Goals & assists

18

Passes into the final third

2.1

Carries into the final third

2.1

Take-on success

48%

Passes into the 18-yard box

1.7

Pass accuracy

77%

Successful dribbles

1.9

Such a tally would hugely benefit Isak upon his move to Anfield, subsequently allowing him to build on his impressive tally of 23 Premier League goals in 2024/25.

The Villa star also notched 2.1 carries into the final third per 90, achieving a 48% take-on success rate – subsequently able to drive with the ball into forward areas before teeing up the Swedish international.

The Englishman’s talents are further reflected in his tally of 1.7 passes into the opposition box per 90, further showcasing his sensational ability when transitioning the play in the opponent’s half.

£80m would be another mammoth transfer fee splashed by the Reds board, but it’s one that could make the side an unstoppable force – strengthening their grip on the current crown.

If he can replicate similar stats alongside Isak on Merseyside, the pair would be able to build a deadly partnership that would massively improve their title chances throughout 2025/26.

More vital than Isak: Key Liverpool target now ready for medical in London

Liverpool are looking to seal one more signature before the end of the summer transfer window.

ByAngus Sinclair Sep 1, 2025

It wouldn’t be a summer transfer window if Chelsea were not extremely busy, would it?

This summer, the Blues splashed over £300m on nine new senior recruits, six of whom are attackers.

Well, the recent 5-1 demolition of West Ham emphasised the attacking potential that Enzo Maresca’s side possesses, but do they have a slight issue at centre-forward, one that a Cobham graduate sold for £34m could’ve fixed had he stayed?

Chelsea's striker conundrum

During Chelsea’s controversial 2-0 West London derby victory over Fulham last weekend, Liam Delap hobbled off in the 14th minute due to a hamstring injury, and this had quite the ripple effect.

At the same time, Nicolas Jackson was in Bavaria finalising a move to Bayern Munich, only for Chelsea to pull the plug on the move, despite having frozen out the Senegalese international since the Club World Cup, saying that they could not let him go.

Jackson’s agent, Ali Barat, released an angry statement and, in the end, he did complete his move to Bayern, with the Bundesliga champions paying an extortionate £14m loan fee, with a £56.2m obligation to buy having been agreed.

Instead, the Blues decided to recall Marc Guiu from his loan at Sunderland, the Spaniard having seen just 103 minutes of action for the Black Cats, scoring against Huddersfield Town in the EFL Cup, with Chelsea having to pay a penalty fee, cutting short one of the shortest loan spells in Premier League history.

It remains to be seen how long Delap will actually be sidelined for, while the returning Guiu is far from guaranteed minutes, given that Maresca has João Pedro, Cole Palmer, Pedro Neto, Estêvão Willian, Alejandro Garnacho, Jamie Gittens, Tyrique George and others from which to choose.

Nevertheless, this whole chaotic and messy situation could’ve been avoided had Chelsea kept hold of a Cobham academy graduate once compared to the club’s greatest-ever centre-forward.

Chelsea's ideal Liam Delap back-up was sold in 2021

Tammy Abraham joined Chelsea at the age of seven, but certainly had to work hard for his place in the first team at Stamford Bridge.

Following loan spells at Bristol City, Swansea City and Aston Villa, scoring 48 goals in 78 EFL Championship appearances, his breakthrough came once Frank Lampard was appointed manager in 2019.

Abraham was Chelsea’s top scorer in 2019/20 with 18 goals, including 15 in the Premier League, before bagging 12 the following campaign, part of Thomas Tuchel’s team that won the Champions League against Manchester City at Estádio do Dragão.

That summer though, the England international was sold to Roma for £42m which makes him the fourth most expensive Chelsea academy sale of modern times, behind Mason Mount, Ian Maatsen and Conor Gallagher.

He then netted 27 goals during his first season with the Giallorossi, winning the inaugural Conference League, before suffering an anterior cruciate ligament rupture on the final day of the season against Torino, which rather hampered his progress.

Where Are They Now

Your star player or biggest flop has left the club but what are they doing in the present day? This article is part of Football FanCast’s Where Are They Now series.

Now 27, he spent last season on loan at AC Milan, scoring ten times for the Rossoneri, two of which came against Roma in the Coppa Italia, before joining Beşiktaş on loan back in July.

Well, Abraham has made a bright start to life in İstanbul, scoring six goals in eight appearances for the Black Eagles, averaging a goal every 108 minutes, including a hat-trick against St Patrick’s Athletic in a Conference League qualifier in Dublin.

At his best, speaking after a Champions League victory over Lille, Rio Ferdinand compared Abraham to Chelsea’s greatest-ever striker, asserting that much of what he produced was “Didier Drogba-esque”, praising his “hold-up play” while highlighting his “magnificent touch” and beautiful finish for his goal at Stade Pierre Mauroy.

But how do his statistics compare to those of Delap? Let’s find out.

2025/26

6

0

2024/25

10

13

2023/24

1

8

2022/23

9

4

2021/22

27

0

2020/21

12

0

2019/20

18

N/A

2018/19

26

N/A

As the table documents, given that Delap is only 22 years old, he has only ever scored 25 senior goals, yet to prove himself as a regular goalscorer, even if bagging 12 in the Premier League for a very poor Ipswich side is a noteworthy achievement.

Abraham on the other hand, aside from campaigns massively blighted by injury, has been consistent in front of goal, reaching double figures in five of the last seven full seasons, including surpassing 25 goals for both Aston Villa and Roma, making a blistering start to his Beşiktaş career last month too.

So, while Delap, who is five years younger, clearly has greater potential, Abraham would certainly have proved to be a capable deputy, given their stylistic similarities too, both physical penalty box presences who like to stay within the width of the area.

Thus, for however long Delap is on the sidelines, Abraham would’ve offered the perfect cover.

Not Palmer: Chelsea hit gold on sensation who's worth way more than Simons

The international ace has been brilliant for Chelsea and Enzo Maresca.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Sep 5, 2025

Pep Guardiola was not impressed by suggestions that his Manchester City side were pegged back late on at Monaco in the Champions League due to the replacement of Rodri with Nico Gonzalez in midfield. The City boss defended the contribution Gonzalez made off the bench after coming on in the 61st minute, while he conceded that Ballon d'Or winner Rodri is not yet fit enough to play 90 minutes multiple times a week and "needs protecting" from recurring injury issues.

Rodri replaced as Man City drop points at Monaco

City led twice away at the Ligue 1 giants but were forced to settle for a point after Eric Dier equalised from the spot in the 90th minute. Gonzalez conceded the penalty for a high boot which caught the former Tottenham Hotspur man in the face, in what was certainly a moment of poor judgement by the midfielder.

Guardiola was quick to justify his decision to substitute Rodri, though, stating that the 29-year-old was not fit enough to see out the game and must be eased back into the demanding schedule required across multiple competitions for the Cityzens.

AdvertisementAFPGuardiola defends Gonzalez but makes concerning Rodri claim

Guardiola said: “Are you suggesting that they scored because Nico Gonzalez was on the pitch and not Rodri? How can you prove that?”

When asked if City can replace Rodri with just one man, Guardiola added: “We cannot play with 12. No, we cannot play with 12. I know Rodri is irreplaceable in many things. But Rodri could not play three days before because his knee was in a bad, bad condition. So, that’s why.

“So, in that moment, Nico Gonzalez, in the 30 minutes he played, was the player who recovered most balls in the transition of attack to defence. We conceded less transitions than with Rodri, who conceded more in the first half when he was playing.

“That is the reason why. I would love to tell you that ‘yes, because Rodri is not on the pitch, we concede the goal’. But I cannot prove that. Because if I had felt it, Rodri would have been on the pitch. But Rodri cannot play in certain moments, cannot play 90 minutes in many, many games. And Nico played really well against Burnley. Really, really good. He’s learning, he’s improving, and we need him.

“Because Kova [Mateo Kovacic] is not ready, and Rodri cannot sustain yet the rhythm for games, 90 minutes. He made an incredible effort in the week against United, Napoli and especially Arsenal in that way.

“I try to protect my players. Because look at what happened to Carvajal at [Real] Madrid, look what happens to players with many injuries, he’s injured again and again. So, sometimes I want the best players there, being fit, but they are still not. That’s why I have to protect the players.”

Rodri eased back in by Guardiola after extended injury lay-off

Rodri suffered an ACL injury against Arsenal over a year ago now, not making his return to first-team action until May. He has only made five starts in all competitions for his club since returning from the injury and has seen multiple minor setbacks since, including a knock picked up during the Club World Cup. His performances have yet to return to his imperious best, which is more than understandable.

Getting Rodri back to full fitness will be a priority for City in the coming months. But, as stressed by Guardiola, the midfielder must be protected, or else further injury problems may occur. In the meantime, the likes of Gonzalez must step up – as that is precisely what he is in the squad to do.

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Getty Images SportThe pressure is on as Man City look to return to their best

The games will continue to come thick and fast for Man City, who face five matches in October across three different competitions. Their next Champions League trip to Villarreal is looking all the more important following their draw in Monaco.

Guardiola has never gone two consecutive seasons in his managerial career without winning a league title, never mind without winning a major trophy. The Sky Blues may still be recovering from their limited pre-season following their Club World Cup exploits, a problem which is currently being felt to the extreme by its winners, Chelsea.

DC are unbeaten in IPL 2025, and while RCB have won the same number of games – three – the only one they have lost was at home

Shashank Kishore09-Apr-20252:15

Is 2025 finally going to be RCB’s year?

Big picture: DC’s spinner vs RCB’s middle-order batters the big contestIn three seasons since IPL 2020, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have won at least three of their first four games. Only once, in 2021, they came close to challenging for a top-two berth, but lost out to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on net run-rate despite winning nine out of their 14 games. None of those wins were at home, though – they didn’t play there because of Covid restrictions.RCB have long grappled with the home-advantage question long before it became a raging debate among teams in IPL 2025. The pitch, the altitude, the short boundaries – of which enough and more has been said over the years – make the M Chinnaswamy Stadium a bowlers’ nightmare. And RCB hadn’t really got their bowling right in all those years. They have this season.Which is why their return to the Chinnaswamy for their second home game of the season, against Delhi Capitals (DC) – they lost the first against Gujarat Titans (GT) – coupled with an excellent start is being met with optimism by fans, who haven’t forgotten the remarkable run of late results that took them into the playoffs.Related

Hazlewood eyes the dots as RCB reach unforgiving Chinnaswamy

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Rayudu backs Patidar's RCB to make it 18th time lucky

RCB's winning formula comes with a distinct Indian flavour

DC schedule has been less hectic, with at least four days off between matches, allowing players as much time on the driving range as they have had at training. There’s a relaxed vibe around the group that stems from being the only unbeaten team in the competition.In Faf du Plessis and KL Rahul, they have two first-XI batters who know the ground inside out. Not to forget reserve batter Karun Nair.They look well-rounded. They are playing as a team – no batter has scored more than 92 (Rahul), when the season’s best at the moment is 288 and the bowlers, led by Mitchell Starc, have almost all chipped in. At this stage, DC look like the team to beat.For RCB, their partnerships for the third to seventh wickets have turned their batting efforts around. Against GT here last week, for example, their Nos, 5-8 were largely responsible for ensuring they recovered from 42 for 4 to 169 for 8, 120 of which came in the last 12 overs.This has largely been down to their handling of spin in the middle overs. RCB have three of the seven middle-order batters in this IPL who average over 40 while striking at more than 150: Rajat Patidar, Jitesh Sharma and Tim David.This facet could be challenged by DC – Kuldeep Yadav taken six wickets at an economy rate of 6.00, while they also have Axar Patel and Vipraj Nigam to lend depth to their spin department.Form guideRCB WLW
DC WWWNew loyaltyDu Plessis, who became an RCB hero after leading them to two playoffs in three seasons (2022 and 2024), is now with DC. He was RCB’s top run-getter in two consecutive seasons (2022 and 2023).Team news and likely XIIsThe Impact Sub is likely to be RCB’s only selection dilemma. Rasikh Salam, picked ahead of legspinner Suyash Sharma, struggled in their previous home game against GT, conceding 35 in three wicketless overs.Royal Challengers Bengaluru (probable XII): 1 Virat Kohli, 2 Phil Salt, 3 Devdutt Padikkal, 4 Rajat Patidar (capt), 5 Liam Livingstone, 6 Jitesh Sharma (wk), 7 Tim David, 8 Krunal Pandya, 9 Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 10 Josh Hazlewood, 11 Yash Dayal, 12 Suyash Sharma/Swapnil Singh/Rasikh SalamFaf du Plessis missed DC’s previous game due to a niggle•BCCIFaf du Plessis, who missed the previous game, is being assessed for a groin strain, but DC assistant coach Matthew Mott said “he certainly looks like he’s moving around a lot better from the naked eye without having to look at him.” If he is fit to return, he will slot back in at the top with Jake Fraser-McGurk. This means Sameer Rizvi could miss out. Left-arm quick T Natarajan is nearing full fitness from a shoulder injury. If fit, he could come in for Mohit Sharma.Delhi Capitals (probably XII): 1 Faf du Plessis/Sameer Rivzi, 2 Jake Fraser McGurk, 3 Abishek Porel, 4 KL Rahul (wk), 5 Tristan Stubbs, 6 Axar Patel (capt), 7 Vipraj Nigam, 8 Mitchell Starc, 9 Kuldeep Yadav, 10 Mukesh Kumar, 11 Mohit Sharma/T Natarajan, 12 Ashutosh SharmaThe big questionRCB have the second-lowest win percentage (50) at home in the IPL. Since last year, they have won four of their eight games at the Chinnaswamy. All their three wins so far this season have come away. Do they have the squad to win more than they lose at home?In the spotlight: Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell StarcJosh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc will be featuring in the WTC final for Australia in June, but for now, they are on opposite sides. This face-off forms a nice subplot.Hazlewood has the best dot-ball percentage (72.92) among bowlers who have delivered multiple overs in powerplays so far this season. His partnership with Bhuvneshwar Kumar – they are both in the top three for powerplay economy rates – has gone a long way in RCB’s success with the ball. Across eight overs, Hazlewood has picked up four wickets while conceding just 4.6 per over. His most expensive outing so far was at home against GT, when he conceded 1 for 43 off four overs. He’ll hope for better returns on Thursday.Starc has been equally effective, picking up nine wickets at an economy of 8.9. His strike rate of 7.8 is the joint-second-best so far at IPL 2025. Starc is no stranger to the Chinnaswamy, having previously played for RCB in 2014 and 2015. The other player key to DC’s fortunes against a marauding RCB middle order is Kuldeep, whose economy of 6.00 is the best among spinners who have bowled at least five overs in IPL 2025. He has also been in wicket-taking form.Stats and trivia Virat Kohli is going harder in the powerplay than ever before. Since IPL 2024, he’s striking at 162 in his first ten balls, as against 122 in the two seasons prior to that. Kohli has a favourable match-up against Starc, having hit him for 40 runs off just 19 deliveries without being dismissed in the IPL. Bhuvneshwar’s 73 wickets are the most in the IPL during the powerplay. Trent Boult comes second with 64 wickets. Among those who have made at least 200 runs, Fraser-McGurk’s strike rate of 205 is the highest in the powerplay since IPL 2025. Axar versus RCB’s middle order promises to be a good contest. He has dismissed Jitesh twice in three innings, and Tim David twice in eight T20s. Their strikes rates against Axar are just 87 and 81 against Axar, respectively.Quotes”He doesn’t come across as being the only voice. He wants to leverage off others and make sure he’s getting the best out of the people around him.”

Manchester United scouts have now reportedly been spotted watching one of the most reliable defenders that Serie A has to offer ahead of a potential 2026 move.

Man Utd's early 2026 targets

There’s still a lot of work to be done at Manchester United even after spending around £200m on reinforcements in the summer. As highlighted by their poor start, Ruben Amorim’s side could particularly do with strengthening their backline and in midfield. Whether the January transfer window presents an ideal time to do exactly that is the big question.

To that end, several potential targets have already emerged. Reports earlier this week linked both Eduardo Camavinga and Federico Valverde with moves to Old Trafford in what would be incredibly ambitious deals for the Red Devils to pull off. However, there’s no doubt that both would be instant upgrades on Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro.

There could also be change in the dugout if Ruben Amorim fails to turn things around sooner rather than later. Reports earlier this week claimed that INEOS are already looking at the likes of Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva as potential candidates to replace their struggling manager.

The manager, himself, has since reiterated that a meeting with Sir Jim Ratcliffe was nothing more than routine this week, but the pressure is certainly building.

If the former Sporting Club boss keeps hold of his position until 2026, then he could once again receive some much-needed investment from INEOS. With scouts already spotted watching one impressive defender in Italy too, it looks as though the Red Devils are ready to welcome more fresh faces when the time comes.

Man Utd send scouts to watch Bremer

According to TeamTalk, Man United scouts have been spotted watching Gleison Bremer ahead of a potential 2026 move. TeamTalk were full of praise for the Juventus defender, dubbing him one of the most reliable defenders that Serie A has to offer. If that is the case, then it’s hard to argue that United shouldn’t be going all in on the Brazilian.

Minutes

270

360

Progressive Passes

4

9

Tackles Won

0

5

Ball Recoveries

14

14

Whilst the immediate numbers reflect harshly on Bremer, it’s worth noting that Juventus have kept 46 clean sheets in Bremer’s 93 appearances. With a record of almost one clean sheet for every two games, the Brazilian’s reliability is there for all to see.

The 28-year-old has also earned plenty of praise during his time in Turin. Analyst Ben Mattinson even went as far as to describe the defender as a “monster” in 2023 and has watched on as he’s only improved ever since.

Man Utd keen to sign £70m Champions League star with same agent as Mainoo

He’s a man in-demand…

ByTom Cunningham Sep 20, 2025

With their scouts in place, Man United would be wise to fend off any competition and welcome the South American in 2026.

Northamptonshire forced back after flying start with new ball

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay18-Apr-2025Derbyshire captain Wayne Madsen continued his prolific start to the season by leading an impressive fightback on the opening day of the Rothesay County Championship Division Two match against Northamptonshire at Derby.The 41-year-old followed a century in the first game against Gloucestershire and 96 at Leicester on Monday with 89 out of a fourth wicket stand of 169 with Brooke Guest who was unbeaten on 87 when bad light ended play at 6pm.Madsen, who this week signed a one-year contract extension, passed 25,000 runs in all formats as his side recovered from 29 for 3 to close on 216 for 4.Northants’ decision to bowl first on a cloudy but dry morning had looked a good one when they made early inroads with the new ball.Both David Lloyd and Caleb Jewell started confidently until Luke Procter struck twice in consecutive overs from the City End.Lloyd was beaten by one that swung in to trap him on the crease and Harry Came played and missed several times before he edged low to third slip for an 11-ball duck.Jewell has enjoyed life on the county circuit, scoring half centuries in each of his first four innings, so not surprisingly looked in good touch until he got a ball from Liam Guthrie that moved away enough to take the outside edge.Northants would have been relieved to see the back of the Australian but that was their last success of the session as Madsen and Guest played with assurance against inconsistent bowling.Justin Broad and Dom Leech paid the price for straying in line and length with Guest reaching his 50 which came off 69 balls in the penultimate over before lunch.The break did not disturb the concentration or eye of the Derbyshire pair who were quickly into their stride with Madsen clipping Procter to the ropes before straight-driving him for another four.He posted his 50 with a seventh four, courtesy of a misfield on the midwicket boundary, which also brought up the century stand from 142 balls, with the visitors struggling to impose any sort of control.Guest pulled Guthrie for six and the runs continued to flow until Madsen was drawn into driving at a wide ball from Broad and was caught behind.But the stand with Guest, Derbyshire’s highest for the fourth wicket against Northants at Derby, had put the hosts in a decent position before rain delayed play for two-and-a-half hours.Conditions improved enough for the match to resume at 5.35 with 22 overs to bowl but after Guest dispatched Leech to the point boundary, the umpires took the players off the field for bad light seven balls later.

Kylian Mbappe’s stunning solo goal helped France ease to a comfortable 3-0 victory and take another giant step towards qualifying for next years’ World Cup with victory over Azerbaijan in Paris. Adrien Rabiot and Florian Thavin were also on target, but there were worrying scenes towards the end as talisman Mbappe signalled to come off with what looked like an ankle injury.

France were far from their best against lowly opposition and came into the match with a mountain of injuries, but boss Deschamps made six changes to the starting XI that faced Iceland, including Liverpool star Hugo Ekitike, who made his first international start. Mbappe, who is in scintillating form for club and country, should have opened the scoring with just 17 seconds on the clock, but fired over from the edge of the box and there were two further chances squandered in the opening minutes by Malo Gusto and Dayot Upamecano. The visitors rode their luck in the opening stages and just as France began to look frustrated the deadlock was finally broken in time added on at the end of the first half, courtesy of a thrilling goal from Mbappe. The Real Madrid striker slalomed through the visitors’ defence and Ekitike got a touch before the ball was thrashed home into the corner of the goal. And it was Mbappe who set-up the second, his cross was met by Adrien Rabiot who nodded home from seven yards out. Thauvin added to the scoring, just seconds after coming on as France maintained their 100 per cent record in World Cup qualifying.

GOAL rates FRANCE players from Parc des Princes…

Goalkeeper & Defence

Mike Maignan (6/10):

Rarely called into action, was virtually a passenger for large swathes of the match. Probably could've left his his gloves back in the changing room. 

Theo Hernandez (7/10):

A useful performance, but was rarely tested in defence, played with France's very high line, supplied the assist for Thauvin's goal. 

Dayot Upamenco (7/10):

Came so very close to opening the scoring in the 18th minute, but failed to connect with a header at the back post. Calm and composed throughout, in the face of very little threat from the visitors. 

William Saliba (6/10):

A very quiet evening and had little to combat from the Azerbaijan attack. Arsenal fans will be glad he completed the match without any injury worry. 

Malo Gusto (6/10): 

Nearly bagged his first international goal in the 10th minute and would have been disappointed to see the keeper beat away his shot from just 10 yards out. 

AdvertisementAFPMidfield

Adrien Rabiot (8/10):

Almost wrote all the headlines with an audacious reverse flick which floated wide. But was on hand to confirm the win, heading home from Mbappe's cross from seven yards out. Was subbed off just a few seconds later.

Khephren Thuram (7/10):

Will be pleased with his debut performance and almost bagged a delightful strike from just outside the box in the 67th minute. Showed some neat touches and will be happy with his performance. 

Michael Olise (7/10):

Has been in thrilling form for Bayern Munich so far this season and was a constant threat in the heart of France's midfield, always looking to drive forward or find a killer pass. Wasted a golden opportunity in the 38th minute, delayed his shot which allowed the defender to smother. Subbed in the 70th minute.

AFPAttack

Kingsley Coman (7/10):

A non-stop performance down France's left wing, with his usual step-overs, tricks and flicks. Cut a frustrated figure at times as his hard work failed to produce the killer final product. Hooked in the 70 minute. 

Kylian Mbappe (8/10): 

France's talisman really should have scored after just 17 seconds, but fired over from the edge of the box. But scored a world class solo goal, skipping past defenders and firing low into the corner of the net. Sent in cross for Rabiot's goal in the second half, but worrying sight as he asked to be subbed off in the 81st minute with what looked like an injured ankle. 

Hugo Ekitike (6/10):

Was strangely subdued in the first half, but very nearly scored following a wonderful piece of individual skill, but fired low at the keeper just before the break. And he hit the base of the post with a powerful low drive just after the re-start. Subbed in the 79th minute. 

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AFPSubs & Manager

Maghnes Akliouche (6/10):

Thrilling piece of skill almost set up a goal just seconds after coming on. Showed glimpses of real class, but not on the pitch long enough to make major impact. 

Florian Thauvin (8/10):

Replaced Mbappe in the 81st minute, and scored two minutes later, courtesy of a delightful touch and finish and edge of six-yard box. What a comeback!

Christopher Nkunku (7/10):

A few neat touches, but had very little to do after coming on

Jean-Philippe Mateta (6/10):

Made his France debut, coming on in the 79th minute at the ripe old of 28! Had half a chance to score a dream goal on debut, but his shot was blocked. 

Eduardo Camavinga (6/10): 

Replaced Rabiot in the 70th minute, but had too few involvements to make a decisive impact on the game. 

Didier Deschamps (6/10):

Would have been concerned as the first-half progressed, but will be pleased his much-depleted side stayed calm and eventually took their chances. 

Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac are being tipped to spend again at Wrexham, with Tony Pulis making a January transfer prediction. He expects further reinforcements to be sought in the next window, but has warned the Red Dragons – who are taking aim at a place in the Premier League – not to “anticipate a top-six finish or immediate promotion” out of the Championship.

Meteoric rise: Wrexham have rewritten the EFL history books

The Welsh outfit have, under the guidance of their Hollywood co-owners, enjoyed a meteoric rise. The history books have been rewritten after becoming the first EFL club to secure three successive promotions. Having clambered out of the National League in record-breaking style, Wrexham now find themselves in the Championship.

Such rapid progress was always going to be difficult to maintain, with many of the opinion that a few seasons of consolidation for the Red Dragons would be no bad thing. They may have to accept that fate in 2025-26 after enduring a few stumbles out of the starting gate.

Reynolds and Mac have, however, made no secret of the fact that they want to bring top-flight football to North Wales. They helped to fund an elaborate £30 million-plus ($40m) spending spree over the summer, with Premier League pedigree being sought.

Not all of those deals, which saw more records being set at the Racecourse Ground, have provided value for money just yet. With that in mind, it is being suggested that Wrexham may be tempted to dip into the January market for even greater squad depth.

AdvertisementGetty/GOALWill Reynolds & Mac spend in January? Transfer claim

That is the opinion of former Premier League boss Pulis, with the experienced Welsh tactician telling : “I think if Phil Parkinson was given the opportunity and the chance to bring two or three better players in, or players with more experience and that little bit of quality that you need, he will.

“Wrexham are a very organised, hardworking team. But the further you go up the levels, you need that little bit of quality. You need that little bit of difference in both boxes as much as anything else. You need someone who's going to score you a goal when it's a tight game for you to win the game, or you've got a goalkeeper who makes a fabulous save that saves you the points that you had in the bag anyway.”

Former Wrexham striker Matt Jansen told GOAL recently when asked if he can see Reynolds and Mac whipping the chequebook out again early in 2026: “If they spend again, it will depend on where they are in the league. If they are in and around the play-offs… If they are mid-table or anywhere where they can’t get to the play-offs, I think they will bide their time before they go again in the summer. It will all depend on where they are in the league.”

Fourth successive promotion: Doubts cast over chances

Pulis is not convinced that Wrexham will be in the promotion picture this time around, with Parkinson being urged to help rein in expectations after facing some uncomfortable questions of his position in the dugout.

Pulis added: “The Championship has seen many clubs from the Premier League drop down and stay there. This is a league brimming with quality. Every team in the Championship possesses the ability to challenge any opposition.

“Phil Parkinson knows and understands this league, having played in it himself. I don't believe he would have approached it with the expectation of a top-six finish in the first season. The important thing for Wrexham is to settle in, aiming for a mid-table position, perhaps just below the playoffs. If they achieve that, I consider it a success for both Wrexham and for Phil.

“I don't think supporters should anticipate a top-six finish or immediate promotion. Promotion would be absolutely fantastic for a Welsh team but it's crucial to manage supporter expectations. No matter how much you give them, they will always want a little bit more. So, managing this aspect of the football club is essential today.”

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Getty Images SportWrexham fixtures: Next up for the Red Dragons

Wrexham suffered a 1-0 defeat at Stoke when returning to action after the October international break. That was their first loss in six across all competitions, but they are also without a win in four heading into a home date with Oxford United on Wednesday.

It isn’t the wildest exaggeration to say that the promoted teams that climbed up to the Premier League last season struggled significantly in the unforgiving division.

Leicester City, Ipswich Town, and Southampton only amassed 59 points in total as they unsurprisingly made up the bottom three come May, having given up a ridiculous 248 goals along the way.

Thankfully, Sunderland are flying the promoted flag high at this point, with the Black Cats, Leeds United, and Burnley already up to 23 points between them so early into the brand new season.

Amazingly, Regis Le Bris’ men find themselves positioned in a fantastic fifth spot in the league after just six games, with their stern defensive record just one standout aspect of their well-oiled unit.

Sunderland's impressive defensive displays

Sunderland definitely had both Omar Alderete and Robin Roefs to thank for their last 1-0 win on the road at Nottingham Forest.

Away from heading home the match-winner, the Paraguayan defender – who was hailed as a “warrior” at the full-time whistle by journalist Andy Sixsmith – would come away from the tense contest with three duels won and nine clearances registered to preserve the Dutchman’s clean sheet.

Roefs has also been near faultless at the back for Le Bris’ men to ensure only four goals this season have been leaked, with a high average of 3.3 saves per Premier League game so far this campaign, showing off a goalkeeper who’s always alert to the danger.

Roefs and Alderete aren’t the only striking partnership defensively that is being formed, however, with the ex-Getafe centre-back no doubt more at ease when settling into the heart of defence, knowing he has the imperious Nordi Mukiele next to him.

Games played

4

Wins

3

Draws

1

Losses

0

Team goals scored

4

Team goals conceded

2

It’s even clearer when looking at the table above that both the South American and the Frenchman have already formed a formidable working relationship, with Sunderland yet to lose when the dominant pair are side-by-side, as only two goals have also been given up across their four outings together.

This could, unfortunately, spell the end for a long-standing Black Cats servant, even after he played a vital role in Sunderland’s leap to the big time.

Sunderland star on borrowed time thanks to Alderete and Mukiele

Le Bris would, after all, be foolish to try and switch up his Sunderland starting lineups, knowing he has a duo at his disposal who look born to play alongside each other.

The Frenchman sticking with both Alderete and Mukiele for the foreseeable future will be unwelcome news for Luke O’Nien, though, with the much-loved Sunderland defender named in Le Bris’ squad for the first time this season after battling back from injury.

He could well be utilised as a utility figure moving forward, considering the no-nonsense titan can play as a full-back, a centre-back, and as a midfielder at a moment’s notice.

But, it’s far-fetched to assume he will be able to usurp either Alderete or Mukiele in the starting lineup now to take up his usual centre-back spot.

Indeed, the EFL veteran’s lack of experience at a top-flight level immediately places him below both the 28-year-old and the 27-year-old in the refreshed pecking order.

Games played

314

Goals scored

23

Assists

16

Promotions

2x

Still, nobody will ever be able to take away O’Nien’s whirlwind success story with the Black Cats up to this point, with the tough-tackling 30-year-old one key figure who helped pull Sunderland out of their League One mire to then set them on the route to competing in the Premier League right now.

Last season even saw the ex-Wycombe Wanderers battler pick up three goals to steer Sunderland to playoff final glory, away from also collecting a sturdy 16 clean sheets in league action.

However, O’Nien won’t want to overstay his welcome now if the Premier League is too gigantic a step for him to take, having already been lauded as a “remarkable” icon of the club by EFL pundit George Elek.

For the time being, O’Nien will be patient and hope Premier League opportunities fall into his lap, even if his minutes now look to be restricted by the emergence of Alderete and Mukiele.

Sunderland's 8/10 star is fast becoming as important as Xhaka & Roefs

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ByKelan Sarson Sep 28, 2025