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Celtic maintained their place at the top of the Scottish Premiership table this weekend as they beat Motherwell 2-1 in dramatic fashion on Saturday.

The Hoops did not take the lead until Luis Palma struck in the 87th minute and then appeared set for late heartbreak as the hosts equalised in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

However, Denmark U21 international Matt O'Riley became the hero for Brendan Rodgers as he popped up with a 97th-minute winner to secure all three points for the Bhoys.

How did Luis Palma perform against Motherwell?

The Honduras international, who joined from Aris FC during the summer transfer window, caught the eye off the bench with an impressive cameo.

As per Sofascore, Palma provided two key passes, one of which created a 'big chance', and completed nine of his 11 attempted passes to go alongside his goal.

The 5 foot 10 ace, who was a hero alongside O'Riley, scored his first goal for the Hoops as he cut inside onto his stronger right foot from the left flank and whipped a shot, which may have been a cross, into the far corner from the edge of the box.

Rodgers must now unleash the 23-year-old ace from the start in the Premiership as the exciting winger is yet to make his full league debut for the club and he could form an exciting link-up with O'Riley at the top end of the pitch.

How many chances has O'Riley created this season?

The former MK Dons star, who has scored five goals in seven top-flight outings, has created 17 chances for his teammates so far this term.

This comes after the 22-year-old produced a whopping 84 key passes and provided his teammates with a staggering 16 'big chances' in the Premiership during the 2022/23 campaign.

He has made 0.6 more key passes per match than any other Celtic player this season and made 0.2 more per game than any of his teammate's last term at league level.

These statistics show that O'Riley is the club's outstanding creative threat from a central midfield position and Palma is a player who has the potential to profit from the Danish gem's invention.

How many goals did Palma score last season?

The Honduras international scored 13 goals and produced eight assists in 36 matches across all competitions for Aris in Greece last term.

He was a lethal scorer at league level for the Greek side as the Celtic ace scored 11 goals and only missed one 'big chance' in 20 Super League starts.

Palma, who was described as "ambitious" by Rodgers, rarely passed up a big opportunity in front of goal as he found the back of the net 11 times from just 7.84 expected goals, which shows that the young wizard is a phenomenal finisher from a wide position.

The summer signing has now showcased his ability in front of goal with the strike against Motherwell on Saturday and that is why Rodgers must finally unleash him from the start in the Premiership to see how he fares over 90 minutes.

O'Riley's outstanding level of chance creation from midfield could provide Palma with the opportunities he needs at the top end of the pitch to carry his superb scoring record over from Greece to Scotland.

Halfway-line goals are a rarity in football. Not many players possess the vision, technique and execution to pull off such an audacious strike.

But every now and then, someone across the globe pops up with a moment of magic from long range, catching a goalkeeper unawares with a mischievous effort.

That has led Football FanCast to take a trip down memory lane and revisit what we consider to be the top 10 best goals scored from inside the opposite half. We’ll be ranking the strikes on the difficulty of execution, from ‘easiest’ to hardest.

Without further ado, here’s our selections:

11 Xabi Alonso v Newcastle

21st September 2006: Liverpool 2-0 Newcastle United

Xabi Alonso netted a wondergoal from inside his own half as the Reds eased past Glenn Roeder’s Newcastle United side in the 2006/07 campaign.

Alonso’s effort was struck from a colossal 70 yards out, and it’s not the only time the Spaniard has scored from his own half, having netted a similar strike a season earlier against Luton Town in the third round of the FA Cup.

Though, we’ve been harsh adjudicators and left that goal out of our list.

Champions League

2005, 2014

UEFA Super Cup

2006, 2014

FA Cup

2006

Community Shield

2006, 2007

European Championship

2008, 2012

World Cup

2010

Copa del Rey

2011, 2014

LaLiga

2012

Supercopa de España

2013

Bundesliga

2015, 2016, 2017

DFB-Pokal

2016

DFL-Supercup

2017

10 Maynor Figueroa v Stoke City

12th December 2009: Stoke City 2-2 Wigan Athletic

Wigan defender Maynor Figueroa put the visiting Latics back in front after striking a quickly taken free kick from inside his own half, catching out Stoke City goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen.

The effort wasn’t hit with much height, but rather a driven effort, leaving Sorensen with little chance to get back in time to make a stop.

Even more spectacularly, the long-distance strike found the top corner, making it that bit more pleasing to the eyes of football purists.

The goal came ahead of the January transfer window, with Manchester United and Sunderland both said to be interested in acquiring his services.

Though, the Honduras international remained at the Latics and was later awarded Goal of the Season by the BBC’s Match of the Day programme.

Every MOTD Goal of the Season since 2000

Honduras

181

5

3

0

Wigan Athletic

87

5

2

1

Houston Dynamo

63

2

3

0

Hull City

43

0

1

0

Colorado Rapids

10

1

0

0

9 Wayne Rooney v West Ham United

22nd March 2014: West Ham United 0-2 Manchester United

Spoiler alert, Wayne Rooney features twice on our list, which is quite incredible. The Manchester United forward was at the double against West Ham back in 2014, with his first strike, although from slightly inside the opponents’ half, particularly memorable.

Rooney used his physicality to roll Hammers defender James Tomkins before unleashing a sensational half-volley which looped over Adrián and bounced in.

David Beckham was in attendance at the ground and was seen applauding Rooney’s astounding strike, which was similar to his own marvellous effort against Wimbledon in 1996.

Read more: 10 memorable David Beckham moments

“Everybody probably flashbacked to Beckham’s goal and there was a bit of similarity in it tonight. I was saying to Wayne, ‘it bounced before it went in and we were worried the bounce was going to go over the bar’. He’s a top player and he’s scored a great goal,” David Moyes said post-match.

Premier League

29

17

12

Champions League

9

2

8

EFL Cup

2

0

2

8 Charlie Adam v Chelsea

4th April 2015: Chelsea 2-1 Stoke City.

Stoke City’s Charlie Adam levelled against the soon-to-be Premier League champions Chelsea just before the break with a 65-yarder, lobbing a true world-class goalkeeper in Thibaut Courtois.

“I never knew I had that much power, to beat a quality goalkeeper like that is something special. One that I will always remember. It was one of them that sat up nicely and I saw the goalie off his line. I was lucky enough that it went in.

“Once in a lifetime this can happen to you, it’s great on an individual level – a great way to get my 50th goal in English football – but the team lost and that is the disappointing thing,” Adam said.

Chelsea boss José Mourinho was full of praise for the strike, despite being on the receiving end of it: “It was a fantastic goal, every player in the world would like to score a goal like that. Diego Maradona to Lionel Messi to all these brilliant players. Not all of them did score that goal in their careers.

“Charlie Adam has condition for a 50-metre shot, so normally he would anticipate the moment we lost the ball, but it’s a great goal.”

Adam’s technique should be marvelled at for years to come, as the former Liverpool midfielder demonstrated a masterclass in long-distance shooting. He even managed to swerve the ball, making matters more complicated for Courtois. Simply brilliant.

Team

Appearances

Goals

Assists

Trophies

Scotland

26

0

7

0

Stoke City

179

22

17

0

Blackpool

98

35

22

0

Rangers

81

15

11

1

Dundee FC

65

12

19

0

Liverpool

37

2

9

1

Reading

27

2

4

0

St Mirren

2

0

0

0

7 Harry Kane v Darmstadt 98

28th October 2023: Bayern Munich 8-0 Darmstadt 98

Harry Kane settled in quickly to his new Bayern Munich surroundings, having completed a £100m move from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2023

The England skipper netted 44 times in 45 outings in his debut campaign, whilst laying on 12 assists, though, one goal stood out more than any other.

As Bayern notably secured a thumping 8-0 victory against Darmstadt 98, Kane continued his prolific goalscoring fortunes – netting a hat-trick.

The 30-year-old’s second goal saw him lob the backtracking Marcel Schuhen from inside his own half, Beckham-style. The superbly executed strike didn’t even bounce, as it soared straight into the centre of the goal.

Bundesliga

32

36

8

Champions League

12

8

4

DFL-Supercup

1

0

0

6 David Beckham v Wimbledon

17th August 1996: Wimbledon 0-3 Manchester United

Perhaps the most iconic halfway-line goal, certainly in Premier League history…

David Beckham’s spectacular effort against Wimbledon catapulted his profile to superstardom. It had fans in complete amazement and Becks recalled Sir Alex Ferguson shielding him from the public spotlight following the game – aware that the flock of media attention could affect him.

“I went up to the boss. I thought he was going to say, ‘Great goal’ and put his arms around me. He said, ‘Straight on the bus — and don’t talk to anyone.’ But that was his way of protecting me. He didn’t want me speaking to any media because he knew what that goal was going to do.”

England

115

17

42

0

Manchester United

394

85

120

14

Real Madrid

159

20

52

2

Los Angeles Galaxy

124

20

42

2

AC Milan

33

2

9

0

Paris Saint-Germain

14

0

2

1

5 Ismaïla Sarr v West Bromwich Albion

8th August 2022: West Bromwich Albion 1-1 Watford

Ismaïla Sarr broke the deadlock in quite brilliant fashion, executing a beautifully struck chip from inside his own half to put the visitors ahead at The Hawthorns.

His initial touch is worth noting, too, as he brought down a looping ball elegantly before pivoting and pulling off the extraordinary – a strike that was later crowned EFL Goal of the Season.

Though, the Senegal international would’ve left the field disappointed by his performance, despite scoring perhaps the best goal of his career.

With the score one apiece, Sarr stepped up to take a penalty in the 73rd minute but saw his effort saved by David Button. A contrasting day of emotions for the former Stade Rennais winger.

4 Nayim v Arsenal

10th May 1995: Real Zaragoza 2-1 Arsenal

The Parc des Princes staged the 1995 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup final, as Spanish outfit Real Zaragoza met reigning champions Arsenal.

The cagey affair burst into life when Juan Esnáider’s volley beat David Seaman in the 67th minute before John Hartson found the leveller just eight minutes later.

As the encounter ticked into the final minute of extra-time and with penalties looming, Nayim produced a moment of genius, looping a 45-yard volley over Seaman’s head to win the cup in quite extraordinary fashion.

“I had played against Arsenal for five years with Tottenham and remembered they always played with a high defensive line, with the goalkeeper acting like a sweeper, so before the game, I told my team-mates and our coach that we should try and shoot from the halfway line,” Nayim said.

“I was going to pass to a team-mate but I looked up and I saw Seaman coming out so I just kicked it. I was very lucky. It’s my first goal against Arsenal after playing against them half a dozen times. For me, it’s something special as a former Tottenham player.”

Supercopa de España

1986

Copa del Rey

1988, 1994

FA Cup

1991

Community Shield

1991

UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup

1995

3 Wayne Rooney v West Ham United

29th November 2017: Everton 4-1 West Ham United

Wayne Rooney completed a hat-trick with a remarkable first-time effort from 59 yards out, as Everton cruised past the visiting Hammers back in 2017.

The strike perfectly soared over two leaping West Ham defenders and shot-stopper Joe Hart – who could only watch on helplessly.

It just edged his previous goal in our rankings due to the distance from where it was hit and the difficulty of taking it on first-time. Most players would’ve either hesitated and taken a touch or shanked it – which is completely understandable, by the way.

The difficulty rating is off the charts…

2 Kemar Roofe v Standard Liège

22nd October 2020: Standard Liège 0-2 Rangers

Not only did Kemar Roofe find the net from inside his own half, which is remarkable in itself, but he also used nimble footwork to skip past two players to make room for the shot which sealed a Europa League victory for Rangers in 2020.

The Gers forward struck from 54.6 yards out, lobbing it over backtracking ‘keeper Arnaud Bodart, who ended up being nowhere near it, in all honesty.

Roofe’s marvellous effort broke the record for the longest-distance goal ever scored in the UEFA Europa League.

Genius innovation from the former Leeds United forward.

Premiership

24

14

4

Europa League

7

2

0

SFA Cup

3

2

0

Europa League Qualifying

1

0

0

League Cup

1

0

0

Despite starting slowly, Leeds United's Championship season is up and running and Daniel Farke will be delighted with the way that his side have ploughed into third-place after 15 matches.

The engine did falter at the start, however, and as a consequence, Ipswich Town are eight points clear in second, despite five victories from six matches for the Whites.

It was always going to take a while to gel together, though, with a hive of transfer activity occurring at Elland Road across the summer following Leeds' relegation from the Premier League, ending a three-year stay.

Despite losing the likes of Jack Harrison, Rodrigo and Tyler Adams (not an exhaustive list), the Yorkshire club rebuilt under Farke's command, with Joel Piroe, Ethan Ampadu, Glen Kamara and co all bolstering the fold, with stars such as Wilfried Gnonto and Georginio Rutter retained.

For all of the talented acquisitions, Farke will be eager to utilise the club's excellent youth influx and cherry-pick the best options to improve the performances; this has already been evidenced through the likes of 17-year-old Archie Gray, who is currently subject to £40m transfer attention from Liverpool.

There is more to come, and based on the short but sweet impression that Mateo Joseph has made this season, he might be next in line to break into the first-team.

Mateo Joseph's youth statistics

Born in Santander, Spain, Joseph enjoyed prolific success with Racing Santander as a youth before joining Espanyol in 2017, scoring 14 goals from 21 appearances across the 2021/22 campaign and earning the attention of Leeds, who completed the signing of the player in January 2022 for an undisclosed fee.

Considered a player with "great potential' by Javier Rodriguez Alonso, Joseph has now plundered 20 goals and three assists from 33 outings for Leeds' development sides, having also made six senior displays – including three appearances in the Premier League – last season.

This year, after a productive pre-season, Joseph has only featured twice in the Premier League 2 but has clinched two goals and an assist from as many matches.

The eight-cap England U20 international has also found a place on the bench in the Championship on two occasions, though he is still awaiting his first senior showing of the campaign.

His rate of scoring this term surpasses that of Patrick Bamford, with the long-time Leeds player perhaps at a crossroads in his career at the club, and could find that he is left behind as Farke's engine churns forward.

Why Mateo Joseph should replace Patrick Bamford

Bamford has completed 158 appearances for United, scoring 51 goals, and was instrumental in guiding them to the Premier League and cementing a spot in the division, but his past few campaigns have been blighted by injury and a loss of form.

Impressed by the rising star's talent, Leeds' U21 manager Michael Skubala said: "He’s in a good place, he’s scoring goals, he’s a character, but he still needs to keep working hard. His finishing ability is top-drawer. He’s been training like a warrior and you can see that in his game."

Such attributes are glowing examples of why he would succeed under Farke's wing at senior level, and it might indeed be wise to promote him to the first team with regularity in the place of Bamford, whose best days at the outfit might now be behind him.

Bamford has only featured seven times this season, though he was absent for the start of the campaign due to a hamstring injury, but having yet to receive a starting berth and score his first goal, the 30-year-old is looking increasingly expendable, with Joel Piroe and Georginio Rutter both ahead in the pecking order.

The one-cap England international did have the opportunity to put his side ahead several weeks ago against Stoke City in the second tier but skied his penalty over the bar.

Division

Season

Apps

Goals

Assists

Championship

23/24

7

0

0

Premier League

22/23

28

4

2

Premier League

21/22

9

2

2

Premier League

20/21

38

17

8

Championship

19/20

45

16

4

Championship

18/19

23

9

2

*Sourced via Transfermarkt

The £70k-per-week striker still ranks among the top 11% of forwards for interceptions per 90, as per FBref, but it appears that his ship has sailed and his lack of minutes over the past several seasons could inhibit him from cementing a regular starting spot with Leeds once again.

With Joseph's dynamic skills and a prolific edge to perfectly complement the existing forwards, Bamford might find that he is playing his last year at the side, with priority handed to a player who could grow into a first-class phenom in the future.

The 20-year-old boasts 18 goals from just 28 games in the Premier League 2, and while the professional level is a whole other ballpark, he possesses the innate talent to wedge his way into Farke's plans.

Ultimately, the goal at Elland Road is to craft a campaign that will open the door to the top flight once again, and with the endeavours in the Championship confirming the squad's capability of securing a spot either in the automatics or in the play-offs, this is more than attainable.

The crux of Leeds' demise last year stemmed from the lack of stability, the wayward transfer activity, and the absence of cohesion on the pitch; now, Farke has instilled a winning mentality and will look to maintain that into the new year, and indeed beyond.

Bamford has not really contributed to this budding revival and it is hard to imagine that he will play a central role in the 2024/25 Premier League season, should Leeds secure promotion.

With Piroe and Rutter among the Whites' thriving forwards, Joseph would be an excellent addition to complement their talents and serve as an understudy.

The hope now will be to see the exciting prospect start to earn a place in the senior set-up, which could kick off a long and successful partnership.

With West Ham United vying for a European place yet again in the Premier League this season, David Moyes could turn to the January transfer window to cement his side's place in the top six and potentially beyond. The Hammers currently sit as high as sixth and just seven points adrift of the top four in what could be a dream campaign in England's top flight.

Those at the London Stadium will be well aware that there's still a long way to go, but the winter window could suddenly put an even greater positive spin on their season so far if they land their targets. Among those that they're reportedly eyeing is a rival player who knows all about qualifying for European football.

West Ham transfer news

When West Ham lost Declan Rice to Arsenal in the summer, it was easy to worry about just how they'd replace the midfielder and splash the cash gained from his departure. Months later, however, and those fears have been firmly put to bed. The Hammers signed Edson Alvarez and James Ward-Prowse to boost their midfield, before turning their attention to Mohammed Kudus, who has starred further forward. Now, they could repeat their transfer genius by landing a defensive target on the cheap.

West Ham want breakthrough Serie A star with "extraordinary qualities"

A breakthrough star appears to be catching the eye of West Ham United.

ByLuke Randall Jan 1, 2024

According to Football Transfers, West Ham have made contact to sign Eric Dier, who will be allowed to leave Tottenham Hotspur this month. The defender's current contract runs out in the summer, meaning that the Lilywhites are on course to lose him for free if they do not cash in this month. Given that Moyes is reportedly impressed by Dier and sees him as a player similar to summer target Harry Maguire, a deal could certainly be on the cards for West Ham in the transfer window this month.

"Reliable" Dier desperately needs move

Dier's game time shows just how much he needs a Spurs departure. The England international has started just one Premier League game for the Lilywhites this season, even amid injuries to both Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero.

A January switch to West Ham would be coming at the perfect time for both parties. Dier would be staying at the top level in England's top flight, with West Ham competing for a place in the top six, and the Hammers would be getting a player with the experience that could make all the difference in the remainder of the campaign.

It's been some fall from grace for Dier since Ange Postecoglou arrived since he was once at the centre of praise from former boss Antonio Conte. Conte said via The Daily Mail: "What I can tell you is that Eric has improved a lot since I arrived. We are talking about a reliable player, 100 per cent focused in every game. He is not a player who alternates with a big performance then a drop. He is providing great continuity in his role and playing every game. I can also tell you he is a really good guy, with great will, desire to work and improve."

Even despite his struggles under the Aussie manager, there is no question his experience and know-how could add crucial depth and leadership to a Hammers side riding the crest of a wave.

West Ham have held loose talks to sign a striker who’s allegedly spoken with Thomas Frank about joining Tottenham, according to a report this week.

West Ham identify striker targets ahead of January

West Ham are accelerating their pursuit of centre-forwards ahead of the January transfer window, with Nuno Espírito Santo making the signing of a number nine one of his absolute priorities.

The Hammers currently languish in the relegation zone with just 13 points from 15 Premier League games, having scored a meagre 17 goals all season, even if they’ve enjoyed a recent mini-revival under Nuno.

Sunderland 3-0 West Ham

West Ham 1-5 Chelsea

Nottingham Forest 0-3 West Ham

West Ham 0-3 Tottenham

West Ham 1-2 Crystal Palace

Everton 1-1 West Ham

Arsenal 2-0 West Ham

West Ham 0-2 Brentford

Leeds 2-1 West Ham

West Ham 3-1 Newcastle

West Ham 3-2 Burnley

Bournemouth 2-2 West Ham

West Ham 0-2 Liverpool

Man United 1-1 West Ham

Brighton 1-1 West Ham

Niclas Füllkrug’s potentially imminent departure has intensified the need for another option upfront, with the German flop expected to complete a return to the Bundesliga after managing just three goals in 29 appearances since his £27 million arrival from Dortmund last year.

Man United’s Joshua Zirkzee is one option under consideration by West Ham.

The Dutch forward has struggled for opportunities under Ruben Amorim and was previously labeled a “future West Ham player” last year, and you can make a case that Zirkzee’s versatilitywould suit Nuno’s system far better than Fullkrug.

West Ham are also monitoring Midtjylland sensation Franculino Dju, who has scored a pretty incredible 21 goals in 30 total appearances this season.

The 21-year-old represents a younger, longer-term investment compared to more experienced alternatives, while Union Saint-Gilloise’s Promise David continues to attract West Ham interest after his impressive performances for the Belgian champions.

West Ham 'set to sign' prolific Tottenham starlet as Mark Noble seals 'coup' of a deal

The Hammers sporting director played a key transfer role.

ByEmilio Galantini Dec 6, 2025

A bigger name option who’s been repeatedly linked comes in the form of ex-Brentford star Ivan Toney.

The Al-Ahli striker, who’s been on fire in Saudi Arabia with 50 goal contributions (42 goals, eight assists) in 62 appearances, is reportedly under catching West Ham’s eye prior to January.

Toney has only managed to make one England squad since moving to the Middle East last year, and with the World Cup looming, reports suggest he could be tempted to move back to the Premier League.

West Ham hold 'informal' talks to sign Ivan Toney

According to some media sources, Toney has even spoken to Frank directly about a potential move to Tottenham next month.

However, as per journalist Graeme Bailey, both Spurs and the Irons could be set for disappointment.

Writing for TEAMtalk, Bailey says that West Ham have held ‘informal’ talks to sign Toney, but a move back to England for the 29-year-old hinges on Thomas Tuchel.

The Three Lions boss wasn’t impressed by Toney the last time he was called up in the summer, so the prospect of him playing his way into the World Cup squad is already slim at best.

Because of this, the forward and his camp aren’t anticipating a call-up, regardless of where he moves from now until the squad selection.

This lack of hope threatens to quash any hope of West Ham, or indeed Spurs, signing Toney, with a potentially huge financial bill also coming as a major roadblock.

If Toney returns to England under two years after his Saudi move, the attacker would be forced to pay massive taxes, but if he waits until the summer, the fees would be more kind in that regard.

It therefore makes more sense for the player to wait until later in 2026 to consider a move back to the UK, by which point Spurs or West Ham may have already signed their desired new target man.

Taking this into account, a potential move to the London Stadium for Toney is seen as a long shot.

Striker greenlights January exit with West Ham bid expected ahead of immediate move

He wants to leave.

ByEmilio Galantini 4 days ago

Following their shock decision to sack Tony Mowbray, Sunderland's first priority must be finding a new manager and one who can pick up where Mowbray left off to guide the Black Cats towards the play-offs in the Championship.

So far, we've seen the likes of Will Still and Kim Hellberg linked with the Sunderland job, as those at the Stadium of Light continue their search for the next manager in the all-important hot seat.

Whoever arrives will have the almost immediate responsibility of making their mark on the Sunderland side through the January transfer window, which could make or break their season. That said, the Black Cats are reportedly already eyeing a move for one particular La Liga gem.

Sunderland transfer news

Sunderland don't operate with the biggest budget in the Championship, instead often relying on cheap moves or smart loan deals to keep their promotion hopes alive. We've seen the likes of Amad Diallo arrive before becoming a crucial player in a short loan period at Sunderland in what is the perfect example of how wise they can be in the transfer market. Now, they could show off this transfer tactic yet again to welcome a La Liga gem to Wearside.

According to TEAMtalk, Sunderland are eyeing a move to sign Sevilla youngster Musa Drammeh, who is available for a cut-price in January with his contract coming to an end in six months. The Black Cats have already reportedly sent scouts to watch the forward play for Sevilla Atletico – Sevilla's B team – this season and could now strike to land a bargain deal.

Sunderland aren't the only Championship club reportedly interested in Drammeh, however, with Birmingham City also eyeing a January move for the young striker, who is on the verge of a first-team debut at Sevilla.

Drammeh is ready for first-team football

Drammeh's stats show that he is a player ready for first-team football, whether that be for Sevilla or, indeed, another European club. The forward has scored five goals and assisted a further two strikes in 13 appearances for the La Liga side's B team in the current campaign so far. And at 22 years old, Drammeh must start making steps towards bigger and better things.

We saw last season just how much young players can thrive at Sunderland through the success of Diallo. If the Black Cats can now land another young gem in the form of Drammeh, they could finally have a replacement for their former loanee's star power. Heading into the weekend, only Watford and Preston North End have scored fewer goals than Sunderland in the Championship's top ten this season, highlighting just how important it is for them to reinforce their attacking options when the January transfer window opens.

Sunderland could forget Still by appointing EFL boss who plays "similar system"

The Black Cats could poach this exceptional EFL manager to replace Tony Mowbray, forgetting about Will Still instantly if the deal was successful.

ByKelan Sarson Dec 8, 2023

Of course, Sunderland must first find a new manager after Mowbray's dismissal before turning their attention to additions who have the chance to transform things at the Stadium of Light ahead of a key promotion push. Whether Drammeh is part of that push as a new arrival remains to be seen, however.

Arsenal return to Premier League duty this evening as they take on Brentford at the Emirates, and they will be hoping to secure all three points which would take them top of the table.

This would depend on the final result between Manchester City and Liverpool in the early kickoff on Saturday, but a win would prove that Mikel Arteta’s men are going to be title challengers once again.

The Spaniard may make a change or two from the last tie against Burnley prior to the international break, but much will depend on whether a couple of players are ready to be unleashed in the starting XI.

Arsenal team news vs Brentford

Arteta discussed a few of his players while speaking to the press on Friday morning, most notably Gabriel Jesus and Martin Odegaard.

He said: "He [Jesus] is available. He played 96 mins in a really competitive match.

"He had a long flight. I have to see the condition."

With regard to Odegaard, the manager sounded hopeful that he would play a part in the match, saying: "Hopefully yes. We have another training session today."

If the Norwegian maestro is ready to play, then he must be included in the starting XI this evening as he could make the difference.

Martin Odegaard’s season in numbers

The 24-year-old enjoyed his best campaign to date last season as he registered 23 goal contributions – 15 goals and eight assists – in the top flight, and it so nearly helped the club win a first title since 2004.

He hasn’t quite been at this scintillating best during the current campaign, but he has still scored five times and grabbed an assist while missing four matches through injury.

The 5 foot 10 gem was hailed as “exceptional” by City manager Pep Guardiola – underlining how good he has been recently – and if the Gunners hope to have any sort of success this season, Odegaard will be vital.

The former Real Madrid starlet currently ranks first among the squad for shots on target per game (1.1) in the Premier League, along with ranking second for big chances created (two), third for key passes per game (1.7) and fifth for successful dribbles per game (0.8), indicating just how effective he has been going forward.

Arteta started Kai Havertz in his place in midfield against Burnley, yet the German international failed to have the required impact, making just one key pass during his 59 minutes on the pitch, while completing only 17 accurate passes during the match.

Havertz has scored only once in an Arsenal shirt since joining from Chelsea, and he hasn’t quite hit the ground running in north London.

Arteta must now start Arsenal's "clinical" dynamo over "lively" returning ace

Mikel Arteta will have some choices to make ahead of the fixture…

ByRosie Tudball Nov 25, 2023

This could lead to Arteta boldly ditching the former Blues man in place of Odegaard, who would clearly have a much bigger impact.

A return to the starting XI for the skipper would give the supporters a massive boost and could spur them to victory against the Bees.

If Arteta can keep the Norwegian sensation fit and healthy for the remainder of the campaign, the north London side will have a wonderful chance of claiming their first Premier League title in 20 years.

Arteta won't rush his recovery, however, but if he is ready, the 24-year-old must be unleashed from the first whistle today.

The January transfer window is just around the corner and Leeds United may dip into the market to bolster their playing squad next month.

Daniel Farke is reportedly looking to add to his forward options as the Whites continue to battle for an instant return to the Premier League by winning promotion out of the Championship.

It was recently reported that the Whites and Italian side Salernitana are both interested in a possible swoop to sign Haugesund forward Sory Ibrahim Diarra.

The Yorkshire-based outfit could land an upgrade on Patrick Bamford and an exciting partner for Georgino Rutter if they are able to win the race for his signature ahead of the second half of the 2023/24 campaign.

Bamford's season in numbers

So far this season, the former England international has made 12 appearances as a substitute and is yet to contribute with a goal or an assist.

He has racked up 1.53 xG (Expected Goals) but has failed to find the back of the net on any occasion. The 30-year-old has not provided any threat at the top end of the pitch.

This has come off the back of his return of four goals from 8.61 xG across 28 Premier League appearances for Leeds during the 2022/23 campaign.

These statistics show that the English attacker has significantly underperformed in front of goal since the start of last season, which is why Farke may look to replace him in January.

The statistics that show why Leeds should sign Diarra

The 23-year-old ace, Diarra, could come in as an upgrade on Bamford if he is able to translate his form over the last few years over to English football.

Throughout 2023, the 6 foot 1 marksman has produced eight goals and three 'big chances' created for his team in 25 Eliteserien appearances. He has also managed one goal and two assists in three cup matches for the Norwegian side this year.

Diarra arrived in Norway from Romanian side Petrolul, where the talented youngster racked up 16 goals and five assists in 29 matches. This included 15 goals and five assists in 22 outings during the 2021/22 campaign.

These statistics show that the Haugesund marksman has been in fine form in front of goal in recent seasons, whereas Bamford has consistently underperformed in the final third for the Whites.

Diarra could thrive alongside Rutter at the top end of the pitch at Elland Road as the French whiz is a sublime creator who could provide the forward with the chances he needs to score.

The 21-year-old magician has created a staggering 16 'big chances' and assisted eight goals in 19 Championship starts for Leeds so far this season.

He ranks within the top 1% of forwards in the division for assists (0.44), Expected Assisted Goals (0.41), and shot-creating actions (4.30) per 90 this season.

Farke has unearthed his own Ousmane Dembele in "unplayable" Leeds ace

The talented youngster has hit the ground running at Championship level this season.

ByDan Emery Nov 28, 2023

These statistics show that the ex-Hoffenheim gem is one of the best, if not the best, creative talents in the Championship due to his ability to consistently unlock opposition defenders with his incisive play.

Therefore, Rutter could be the perfect player to help Diarra hit the ground running as he has the quality to put chances on a plate for the Mali-born finisher to carry his impressive goalscoring form over to England to become Farke's much-needed Bamford upgrade.

Arsenal are back in action this evening, as Mikel Arteta’s side look to right their wrongs in the Champions League against Sevilla.

The Gunners face a trip to the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium in their third fixture of Group B, and will hope to hunt down RC Lens who currently top the group after beating Arteta’s side last time out.

The loss to Lens broke Arsenal’s undefeated start to the 2023/24 campaign, with the north Londoners poised for another challenge in Europe this evening.

What is the latest Arsenal team news?

Not only will the Gunners hope to turn their form around in the Champions League, but also in general, after being held to a 2-2 draw against Chelsea in the Premier League in their most recent fixture.

It was a dull performance by the north Londoners' standards at Stamford Bridge, calling for an improved showing in Seville tonight in order to take back control in the group.

Against Chelsea, goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale was absent from the squad due to the birth of his child, however, the Englishman is set to return to the fold as confirmed by Arteta during his pre-match press conference.

The 25-year-old could even find himself with a role greater than being on the bench, after David Raya’s questionable performance against the Blues raised questions over the rotation of Arsenal’s shot-stoppers.

The Spaniard recorded one error that led to a shot, as well as being criticised for his positioning for Mykhailo Mudryk’s goal that gave the hosts the lead in the second half.

Raya was described as having a “terrible time” by journalist Joe Prince-Wright during the London derby, however he wasn’t the only player from the favoured XI to have a poor outing at Stamford Bridge.

Should Martin Odegaard start against Sevilla?

Usually Arsenal’s saviour, captain Martin Odegaard was far from his best against the Blues, as highlighted by his mere 36 touches and losing possession 11 times in midfield.

Once lauded as “exceptional” by Pep Guardiola, the Norwegian maintained a pass completion rate of just 80% against the Blues, and failed to record a single shot to tell the tale of his anonymous display in west London.

In form that’s unusual for the £240k-per-week ace, Odegaard was also far from impressive against Lens last time out in the Champions League, somewhat decreasing his claim to a spot in the starting XI against Sevilla.

Against the French outfit, the midfielder was again a backseat passenger for Arsenal, recording only 49 touches and losing possession nine times, raising the question of whether rotation could inspire him to rediscover his form.

Arteta isn’t short of personnel that could thrive if he made the bold decision to drop Odegaard this evening, with the likes of Emile Smith-Rowe and Fabio Vieira queuing for the chance to showcase their skills in the starting lineup.

It would be a critically bold move for Arteta to drop his captain, however, Odegaard’s performances of late have been questionable, and most commonly the key to unlocking past form is healthy competition.

Arsenal need a win tonight, and the Spaniard has several decisions to make with reference to his squad choices after the mediocre performance against Chelsea last weekend.

Glasgow Rangers have already started their winter transfer business with intent, bringing in striker Fabio Silva on a loan deal to Ibrox until the end of the current campaign.

It proves that Philippe Clement isn’t resting on his laurels following a positive start to his spell at the Gers and is clearly looking for ways to bolster his squad.

With the winter break in operation until 20 January, the Light Blues have a week left to prepare for the second half of the season and, considering they are fighting on both domestic and European fronts, more signings are a necessity rather than a want.

With this in mind, a few names have been mentioned regarding a potential move to Ibrox, but the latest player could perhaps be the most exciting link yet…

Rangers transfer news – Oscar Zambrano

It comes as no surprise to any of the supporters that Clement is targeting a midfielder this month, especially as this area of the first team has been struck with plenty of injuries to key players.

The likes of John Lundstram, Jose Cifuentes, Ryan Jack, and Nico Raskin were all unavailable at one stage, leading to the 49-year-old coach playing Dujon Sterling and Kieran Dowell – a right back and attacking midfielder – as his pairing at the heart of the midfield at one stage.

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, the Light Blues are watching midfielder Oscar Zambrano, yet they face an almighty battle to secure his signature this month.

Fabio Silva

2024

Todd Cantwell

2023

Nico Raskin

2023

Aaron Ramsey

2022

James Sands

2022

Mateusz Zukowski

2022

Amad Diallo

2022

Scott Wright

2021

Jack Simpson

2021

Ianis Hagi

2020

Celtic are also keen admirers, but it is the clout of the Premier League which may prove to be the destination for the 19-year-old talent.

Luton Town and Brighton & Hove Albion have discussed making a move for the player, according to Bailey, yet it is AFC Bournemouth who are emerging as the frontrunners for his signature.

An alleged price tag of £5.5m may prove to be a stumbling block unless Clement can move on some deadwood this month, but he will have to be swift considering the teams who are watching him.

The youngster could very well be Clement’s own Moises Caicedo, with the pair sharing similar attributes from their favoured deep-lying midfield role, and it would be a stunning coup for the Glasgow side if they managed to pull off a move.

How Oscar Zambrano compares to Moises Caicedo

Like the current Chelsea gem, Zambrano started his career in his homeland, currently turning out for Ecuadorian outfit LDU Quito, whereas Caicedo played for Independiente before securing a career-changing move to Brighton in 2021.

Caicedo likes to dictate the play from deep and possesses wonderful physical and technical abilities, which have made him a standout so far in his young career.

The 22-year-old currently ranks in the top 4% with regard to pass completion percentage per 90 minutes when compared to positional peers across Europe (90.1%) while last season in the Premier League, the youngster made 100 tackles, good enough to rank him second behind Joao Palhinha. It's clear, therefore, that he can influence the game from the heart of the midfield.

U23 scout Antonio Mango praised Zambrano for his performances at the U20 World Cup in May 2023, saying: “Ecuador may have scored 12 goals at U20 World Cup (Highest) but Zambrano is one to have caught my eye. His discipline and awareness combined with terrific passing ability is fantastic. The Unsung Hero.”

It is clear he could turn into Caicedo 2.0 and this is a move which Rangers simply cannot let escape, especially with his ceiling being so high and the fact he has the potential to make the club a massive profit in the future.

Oscar Zambrano’s career statistics

The 19-year-old has already made 48 appearances for his club side since making his debut back in 2022 and is clearly on a fast track to a career in Europe in the not-too-distant future.

During the 2023 league campaign for his club side, Zambrano finished with a stunning 91% pass success rate along with losing possession just 4.8 times per game and recovering 4.3 balls per game, already showcasing his Caicedo-esque abilities at such a tender age.

This has led to praise from a variety of courses, with South American football expert Nathan Joyes dubbing the midfielder as a “classy operator” who is “very mature for his age” last month as Premier League sides circle him like vultures.

He still has plenty of development to do, but moving to Rangers and experiencing the chance to win trophies and play European football could be ideal for the teenager to begin what could be a productive career in Europe.

He has yet to make his debut for Ecuador, but it surely won't be long before he makes the step-up and his displays in the U20 World Cup last year will surely put manager Felix Sanchez on high alert.

Zambrano started all of Ecuador’s four matches in the competition, and he was sublime throughout. Not only did he achieve an 89% pass success rate, but the midfielder also demonstrated his wonderful defensive abilities by making 2.5 tackles and 1.8 interceptions per game, along with winning 57% of his ground duels.

While not known for his attacking skills, he did average 2.3 key passes per game for his nation, along with succeeding with 100% of his dribble attempts, proving that he could perhaps play a hybrid role in the future, which would be a big advantage for Clement.

The Belgian coach is desperate to reinvigorate his midfield with some young talent and Zambrano certainly fits the bill.

Although the lure of the Premier League may prove to be too much for Rangers to cope with, Clement will regret not making a more concrete offer for a player who could explode and shine on the continent, similar to Caicedo last season for Brighton.

He eventually made the move to Chelsea for a staggering fee of £115m. It may be too early to discuss this type of fee with regard to Zambrano, yet it shows just what could be achieved by developing highly-rated young talent.