Arsenal are prepared to sell a "top-level" player, and he could even leave in January, with manager Mikel Arteta's personal transfer priority shared this week.

Edu makes transfer admission ahead of January

Sporting director Edu, speaking on Amazon Prime Video recently (via football.london), made a promising transfer admission ahead of the winter window.

The Brazilian has stated that Arsenal are "prepared" for what will be a hectic window, with reports suggesting that they have their eyes on strengthening a few key positions.

Edu is a "big fan" of £100m Brazilian, Arsenal will push for him in 2024

The Gunners are ready to swoop next year.

ByEmilio Galantini Dec 20, 2023

"To work for a football club like Arsenal, it is always busy isn’t it," said Edu on Arsenal's January plans.

"You need to put in a lot of effort and energy and dedicate a lot of time, but of course in January and the summer, it does intensify a bit. We are prepared. We have big people around the club to support me and the decisions. We always have our targets – it is important to be prepared for every single scenario – that is very important.

"We have so many people working on one signing – we have people who are in recruitment, leader of operations and it’s a big team effort to sign one player so that is what makes me proud because the way we are working and connecting as a club, that is what makes me so proud because I am part of it, but what makes me very happy is the way we are working today."

It is believed Arsenal want to sign two new full-backs, a new midfielder and striker, but their lavish spending in the summer means the Gunners may have to compromise on a couple of those (The Independent).

Arteta is arguably lacking options up front, with Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah standing out as his only natural choices. Injuries could severely detriment Arsenal's attacking options if they're not careful, and they've been heavily linked with a move for Brentford star Ivan Toney.

Arsenal are seen as current favourites to sign Toney, according to recent reports, and signing a new forward appears to be firmly on the agenda next month.

Arsenal prepared to sell Nketiah

Journalist Wayne Veysey has an update on this for Football Insider.

The reporter claims signing a striker is Arteta's personal "priority" at Arsenal in January, with the club also prepared to sell Nketiah in 2024.

Arsenal 5-0 Sheffield United

9.86

Bournemouth 0-4 Arsenal

7.92

Arsenal 2-1 Nottingham Forest

7.66

Crystal Palace 0-1 Arsenal

7.00

Arsenal 2-2 Fulham

6.96

The Englishman could depart as soon as the winter window as Arsenal's manager and the club's recruitment team seemingly plot an attacking overhaul.

Indeed, it is believed a January exit cannot be ruled out for Nketiah if they're presented with the right offer, coming as Arsenal seek to raise funds for new signings.

The 24-year-old, who's scored five goals in 16 league appearances, has also been called a "top-level" player by Arteta. However, it appears Nketiah could well be sacrificed in Arsenal's hunt for a prolific marksman.

Bangladesh captain happy with young pacers’ attitude despite the trio conceding 369 runs for only one wicket

Mohammad Isam in Hamilton03-Mar-2019Bangladesh were far too casual with their choice of strokes in the first innings and it cost them the Hamilton Test against New Zealand, said Mahmudullah, their captain, after the innings-and-52-run defeat inside four days.The visitors were bowled out for only 234 in their first hit despite Tamim Iqbal setting things up with his ninth Test century. The rest of the batsmen, according to Mahmudullah, chose the easier option of trying to hit out.It was a vastly improved performance in the second innings, though, as Bangladesh scored 429. Mahmudullah’s career-best 146, as well as his 235-run fifth-wicket stand with Soumya Sarkar, who also scored his maiden Test century, salvaged a lot of pride for Bangladesh. What stood out was the manner in which the pair, much like Tamim in both innings with his 126 and 74, fought tooth and nail against the bouncer barrage.

I wanted to work harder in the second innings, even if I got hit on the body, I want to give myself a chanceMAHMUDULLAH

Ultimately, however, the 481-run first-innings deficit was too much for Soumya and Mahmudullah. Soumya fell for 149, before Mahmudullah, trying to bat with the tail, holed out at deep point 20 minutes after tea. He later said that his focus in the second innings was almost diametrically opposite to how he batted the first time, when he gave away his wicket.”You have to play tough cricket in Tests,” he said. “There will be good spells from both ends, so one has to understand these things. I think we took the easier options in the first innings, and got out. I did it. [Mohammad] Mithun did it. Some other batsmen also got out in the same fashion. I wanted to work harder in the second innings, even if I got hit on the body, I want to give myself a chance.Tamim Iqbal falls over while trying to duck underneath a bouncer•Getty Images”I got out trying to pull the ball casually in the first innings. I thought that if I take a bit of time (the second time), they may get tired and then I take my chances. I tried to be patient when they were mixing the bouncers with yorkers last evening.”He was less critical about his young pace attack of Abu Jayed, Ebadot Hossain and Khaled Ahmed, who combined to take 1 for 369 in 87 overs in the New Zealand innings of 715 for six declared, saying that he was willing to be patient if they kept bowling with intent.”The bowlers tried hard. They tried bowling bouncers and also fuller lengths to swing the ball. They were positive and aggressive, which I wanted as a captain,” Mahmudullah said.”If they show the same attitude and bowl more consistently in Wellington, they are likely to get better results. But I think New Zealand batted really well. Kane Williamson, [Jeet] Raval and [Tom] Latham played really well.”Mahmudullah pointed to Tamim as an example, saying that the senior opening batsman deserved a lot of credit for battling hard in both innings.”When [Neil] Wagner was bowling bouncers at Tamim from around the wicket, he survived that period. I liked that from him, because he is our best player of pull and hook shots. It is something that I myself and others should also follow,” he said.Also crucial, Mahmudullah said, was for the batsmen to bear in mind what New Zealand’s pace attack has to offer. “Wagner kept on trying to bowl bouncers from a back of a length. [Tim] Southee and [Trent] Boult were trying to swing the new ball. I think it is their primary method, which I hope our batsmen have understood and keep in mind for the second Test,” he said.

A life ban has been recommended for Anuj Dedha, the Delhi cricketer who assaulted Amit Bhandari, the former India bowler and now chairman of selectors for Delhi’s senior and Under-23 teams.The recommendation to ban Dedha was taken on Wednesday at a Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) meeting attended by its president Rajat Sharma, members of the senior selection panel, the head coach and the team manager. The decision also found support from former Delhi and India opening batsmen Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir.Sharma said Dedha would not be allowed to carry out or be part of Delhi’s cricketing activities. “The decision will now be sent the DDCA Apex Council to be ratified,” he told ESPNcricinfo and expected it to be enforced in full overnight.ALSO READ: Mumbai teen gets three-year ban for flashing in dressing room
Bhandari, 40, was attacked by men wielding hockey sticks and iron rods during a cricket match at Delhi’s St Stephen’s Cricket Ground on Monday. Bhandari, who suffered head and ear injuries, was watching a selection trial game with two other selectors at the time. He was taken to a city hospital immediately, and Dedha, whose actions were reportedly in retaliation for not being selected in the Delhi Under-23 team, as well as one of his accomplices were arrested.”Dedha will also not be allowed to play in any club match or any tournament affiliated with the DDCA,” Sharma told . “It was Gautam [Gambhir], who mooted the idea of a life ban and also suggested that from now on, no parents, relatives or friends will be allowed to watch the trials. Only the players whether U-14 or U-16 will get entry inside the stadium premises.”The attack took place when the first match of the day was about to end, with one more match scheduled. According to eyewitness accounts, when players and DDCA officials tried to intervene, they were threatened with dire consequences.A player present at the game told that Bhandari was lucky he was able to run away and maintain distance with the attackers otherwise the injuries could have been much worse.Sharma also confirmed that selectors would be provided with more security going forward. “Wherever any trials take place in any ground and selectors are present, security will be provided,” he said. “No parent or friends of the cricketers will be allowed to enter the field while the selection procedure will take place.”

Newcastle United have waited 68 long years to lift a major domestic trophy, having had glory ripped from their grasp back in February by bitter foes Manchester United in the EFL Cup final at Wembley.

Nevertheless, with the Red Devils, as well as Arsenal, Manchester City, Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur, eliminated from the League Cup this time around, the lengthy wait could finally be over.

However, the Magpies must first get past Premier League strugglers Chelsea at St. James’ Park tonight and head coach Eddie Howe may have to piece together his side once more before they take to the field.

Newcastle team news

Having suffered three consecutive defeats in all competitions over the past fortnight, Newcastle got back to winning ways with a massive 3-0 victory against ten-man Fulham at the weekend, keeping pressure on the rest of the top four.

Nonetheless, there was still a dark cloud which loomed overhead during the emphatic win as centre-back Fabian Schar was replaced within the first 15 minutes of the game, having suffered a buttock injury and was replaced by Emil Krafth, who has seen merely 217 minutes of action in the 2023/24 campaign.

Adding insult to injury, Joelinton limped off just after the half-hour mark and was replaced by teenage sensation Lewis Miley. The red card in the first half certainly helped Newcastle to cruise to victory, but Howe will be further concerned by an injury list which is growing and growing. The manager has already confirmed that both men face scans to be fit to take on the Blues tonight, but starting either could potentially cause further damage.

With that in mind, Howe does have another solution that is staring him right in the face.

Dan Burn’s stats this season

With Schar being taken off early into proceedings against Fulham, Howe made the wise decision to throw Dan Burn in at centre-back, with the 6 foot 7 giant starting the game at left-back. Tino Livramento was brought over to the left, while Krafth held down the right-back spot.

It was a tactical change that worked in Newcastle’s favour as the side kept a clean sheet and limited the visitors to merely six shots, which recorded an xG of just 0.28 as three of their shots came from outside the penalty area.

Furthermore, Burn managed to grab himself a goal late on against his former club, leaping highest at the back post and eventually bundling over the rebound to seal the three points. This was his third goal of the season in all competitions.

The Blyth-born defender came off two minutes later for Sven Botman, who made his return to the team after three months out with a knee injury, which was welcomed by the home fans. However, Burn’s performance at the back certainly can’t be discounted as he won 89% of his total duels during the game, including 100% of his aerial duels and even contributed to 0.76 xG of Newcastle’s total 3.51 xG, according to FotMob.

Dan Burn Stats vs Fulham

Goals

1

Shots

2

Expected Goals

0.76

Big Chances Missed

1

Touches

3

Passes Into Final Third

10

Interceptions

4

Defensive Actions

7

Recoveries

3

Duels Won

8

Duels Lost

1

Stats via FotMob

In addition, Burn has started 317 of his 450 career matches as a centre-half, including 21 with the Geordie club, so it certainly won’t be unfamiliar territory for him.

The 31-year-old has been solid as a rock under Howe this season once again and the £72k-per-week man even earned praise from Premier League legend Rio Ferdinand who called him “phenomenal” after Newcastle put Paris Saint-Germain to the sword earlier in the campaign.

While Botman is now back in the team, the Dutchman did just make a six-minute cameo at the end of the match and starting him against Chelsea could potentially aggravate his knee injury.

After Burn’s heroic showing on Saturday afternoon, Howe should keep the boyhood Newcastle fan in the starting lineup as a centre-back alongside Jamaal Lascelles in Schar’s absence, with Kieran Trippier and Livramento flanking the duo as the fullbacks.

MatériaMais Notícias

O atacante Paulinho Boia será submetido a artroscopia no joelho direito na próxima quarta-feira (10) para a retirada de um corpo livre, conforme divulgou o São Paulo em nota oficial no seu site.

Brenner entrou na lista: Veja as vendas mais caras da história do São Paulo

Com dores que bloqueavam a movimentação, o jogador não treina desde a última semana e estava entregue aos cuidados do departamento médico do clube, que optou pela intervenção cirúrgica.

SIMULE OS JOGOS DO SÃO PAULO NO BRASILEIRÃO

RelacionadasSão PauloCom dores musculares, Luan vira dúvida no São Paulo; Tchê Tchê treina na equipe titularSão Paulo08/02/2021São PauloSão Paulo ganha premiação máxima em Programa de Excelência da FPFSão Paulo08/02/2021São PauloSão Paulo aposta em retrospecto positivo diante do Ceará para vencerSão Paulo08/02/2021

Após realizar exames de ressonância magnética, foi detectada a necessidade da pequena cirurgia que deverá afastar o atleta dos gramados por um curto período de tempo. O São Paulo não deu um prazo exato de retorno do ponta.

Revelado em Cotia, Paulinho Boia já disputou 29 jogos pelo time principal, sendo 20 na atual temporada. Ele já foi emprestado para o Portimonense, de Portugal e o São Bento, onde disputou a Série B de 2019.

Paulinho será submetido a artroscopia no joelho direito.

Saiba mais > https://t.co/Iy50QeHDaZ pic.twitter.com/E7P7aTLROS

— São Paulo FC (@SaoPauloFC) February 8, 2021

Leeds United experienced a turbulent transfer window this summer in the immediate aftermath of their relegation down to the Championship, a whole host of underperforming first-teamers departing before the prospect of second-tier football could even properly sink in.

The likes of Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen, Rodrigo and Marc Roca all left the club to pursue loan moves elsewhere, whilst American midfield gem Tyler Adams also left Elland Road behind to join Premier League side AFC Bournemouth on a permanent deal.

Yet, not all hope was lost completely in this transfer window with Daniel Farke going on to recruit the spine of a squad that's now third in the league and gearing up for an intense battle with Ipswich Town and Leicester City for those coveted automatic promotion spots.

Additions such as Joel Piroe, Ethan Ampadu and Joe Rodon have been excellent buys whilst duds in the Premier League such as Georginio Rutter have burst into life since the club were relegated – the latter man registering seven assists this season.

Farke could add some new players in January to his promotion-chasing squad regardless of the feel-good factor present at Elland Road at this moment in time, Leeds potentially going back in for Fortuna Düsseldorf star Ao Tanaka who is vying for a move away from the German club.

Leeds transfer latest

Leeds United were previously interested in the Japanese midfielder last transfer window and even made a bid for the player, according to reports in Germany, albeit with Farke's men opting to sign Glen Kamara instead to fill gaps over Tanaka.

The Whites could be encouraged to go back in for the 24-time Japan international with recent developments suggesting that the skilful 5 foot 11 Düsseldorf man is actively looking for a move away.

German football website Express commented on the 'tricky situation' Tanaka's club have on their hands to keep the 25-year-old past January, stating that Dusseldorf will not put 'any obstacles' in the way of their number four moving on.

The Whites could therefore consider going back in for their failed summer buy, adding competition for places in West Yorkshire to ensure first-team regulars such as Kamara don't become complacent centrally.

How Ao Tanaka compares to Glen Kamara

Whilst Leeds' Finnish midfielder is far more reserved in his game going forward – content with just spraying the ball about with ease in a holding role – Tanaka excels when he ventures further up the pitch to help his team add goals.

Farke could unearth Kamara rival in Leeds academy gem who's a "dream to coach"

The talented young gem could be the next player to make a breakthrough at Elland Road.

ByDan Emery Dec 4, 2023

Over the last year for his 2. Bundesliga employers – according to FBref – Tanaka has averaged 1.28 shots per 90 minutes when he forays forward. Kamara, on the contrary, comes in at a far lesser 0.21.

With the amount of shots Tanaka takes per match, it's no surprise to see the Japanese midfielder has four goals next to his name for his free-flowing 2. Bundesliga team this campaign.

Yet, Kamara comes out on top in the passing statistics between the two – Leeds' number eight is a key figure under Farke playing in a deep position, a calm orchestrator of attacking moves alongside partner Ethan Ampadu. Over the last year, Kamara has on average completed 92.4% of his passes per game compared to Tanaka's 85.5%.

The Japanese World Cup star could offer Leeds something more fresh and unique if he was to be signed, even potentially starting in a more advanced number ten role if required.

Tanaka's ability to be tough in a tackle for Dusseldorf and his national team but also potent in attack has even seen him be compared to Real Madrid golden boy Jude Bellingham, a comparison that will have certainly piqued Leeds' interest due to the 20-year-old's heroics of late – netting 15 goals in just 17 games for Los Blancos.

That likeness between Tanaka and the Englishman was noted by the Bundesliga official website, who stated:

'Tanaka is somewhere in between, going box to box and emerging as an on-field leader like Borussia Dortmund’s England international Jude Bellingham. Tanaka looks to clean up from deep – averaging almost nine tackles won per Bundesliga 2 game in 2022/23 – and get forward whenever possible.'

Kamara will then be sweating about the potential of Kamada joining the Whites, Farke could fancy signing the bargain £2.6m man in January and play him over the former Rangers man to catch opponents off-guard in their continued hunt for promotion.

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has been handed a transfer boost over one of his targets, coming after "further talks" behind-the-scenes.

Spurs identify signing priority for January

The north Londoners are very keen to shore up their fragile backline next month, coming after a long-term injury to Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero's absence crippled them for a time.

Van de ven remains on the treatment table but is reportedly fighting to make his comeback next month, while Romero is often walking a tightrope when it comes to risking suspension.

Tottenham favourites to sign "serious" defender who's "similar" to Maldini

Mauro Tassotti thinks he resembles the Milan legend.

ByEmilio Galantini Dec 16, 2023

Postecoglou has publicly admitted to wanting a new centre-half as a result, and it's believed they have their eyes on a few names heading into the January window.

Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite, Genoa defender Radu Dragusin and others stand out as the most regularly mentioned centre-backs linked with Tottenham lately, but Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo appear to have climbed his way to the top of sporting director Johan Lange's target list recently.

The Frenchman has been an imperious member of Francesco Farioli's side, who are contending near the top of Ligue 1. Commanding a fee of around £35 million, Todibo represents both a quality and affordable option for chairman Daniel Levy.

Spurs hold "further" Todibo talks

According to an update by The Daily Mail and journalist Simon Jones, Spurs have held "further talks" to sign Todibo with the player's representatives. Indeed, they appear to be moving for the player quickly as Postecoglou seeks to make signings as soon as possible, rather than wait nearer to deadline day.

The Australian wants three new additions in the winter; a defender, midfielder and forward. In a boost for Tottenham's head coach, Todibo is believed to be keen on joining Spurs and Postecoglou's rejuvenated squad.

Todibo is one of a number of options being discussed behind the scenes, but the in-form ace is pretty enticing given his age, quality and £35m price tag. He's also been praised by numerous high-profile figures, like former Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey and ex-Bayern Munich defender Dante.

“Of course, we would like Todibo to stay," said Dante when speaking at a recent press conference.

"But it can be complicated. We have to wait to see who will want to buy him and if everyone finds himself there. He is a leader, a very strong player mentally, he has improved a lot and he is ready to reach the very top level."

Ramsey, meanwhile, is convinced Todibo can reach the very peak.

“Jean-Clair is a very interesting character; he’s very confident and he’s a great guy around the dressing room and he’s a very, very talented player, who can go all the way to the top," said Ramsey (via Get French Football news).

"For him, it is important to keep his feet on the ground, strive for more, and take in as much information as possible."

The defender, going by recent reports, may be edging closer to making an English move – and it could well be Tottenham.

Carlo Ancelotti's side picked up a vital three points that could see them lock up the league title before the day's finished.

With Carlo Ancelotti resting most of his big guns, Brahim Diaz got the job done for Real Madrid, scoring one goal and assisting another as Los Blancos breezed past Cadiz to move within touching distance of regaining La Liga.

Eder Militao came closest for Los Blancos in the first half, his 30-yard effort stinging the palms of the sprawling Jeremias Ledesma. Ancelotti's side looked a more assertive side after the break, and Diaz provided the crucial moment, spinning his man before firing a guided effort into the top corner from outside the box.

Diaz set up the second, too, cutting back for Jude Bellingham, who got on the scoresheet within five minutes of being substituted on. Dani Carvajal could have put the game beyond doubt with 10 minutes remaining, but fired over with the goal gaping. Joselu made up for his miss, though, completing a sweeping counter-attack to seal a convincing 3-0 victory in second-half stoppage time.

Madrid are now playing a waiting game. If Barcelona drop points against Girona in the Catalonian derby, they will be league winners by the end of the day.

GOAL rates Real Madrid's players from the Santiago Bernabeu…

• Getty Images
  

  Goalkeeper & Defence

  Thibaut Courtois (6/10):

  Relatively untroubled in his first start this season. Good to keep a clean sheet as he finally brought an end to what has been a nightmare spell out due to injury.

  Dani Carvajal (7/10):

  Another impressive showing at right-back. Got forward well, and made some key interventions at the back.

  Eder Militao (7/10):

  Commanded the back line effectively as he continues to work his way back to full fitness.

  Nacho (6/10):

  As reliable as usual, even if his lack of pace was exposed on a few occasions. Assisted Joselu's goal late on.

  Fran Garcia (7/10):

  Scampered down the left with regularity, and looked better defensively than in recent weeks.

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• Getty Images
  

  Midfield

  Eduardo Camavinga (7/10):

  Broke up play, offered some attacking thrust, and went on a few interesting runs from deep. A class act, less than a week after being benched against Bayern.

  Luka Modric (8/10):

  Completed almost all of his passes, and made most of them look lovely, too. Assisted Diaz's fine opening effort.

  Dani Ceballos (5/10):

  A few nice touches, but looked like he was trying to force it too often. Puzzling that he decided to stay at the club last summer.

• Getty Images
  

  Attack

  Arda Guler (6/10):

  Lively for periods, but the game wasn't open enough for him to work his magic. Good minutes under his belt, regardless.

  Joselu (7/10):

  Frustrated for most of the game. Got in all of the right areas, but lacked service to do much after getting there. Changed his fortunes with a wonderful goal in the 94th minute.

  Brahim Diaz (8/10):

  Opened the scoring with a magical turn and finish. Assisted Bellingham's goal, too. Would start for pretty much any other team in La Liga on current form.

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• Getty Images
  

  Subs & Manager

  Jude Bellingham (7/10):

  Not a bad sub to bring off the bench. Scored within five minutes of his introduction. Otherwise kept it simple, and linked play effectively in the final third.

  Vinicius Jr (7/10):

  Almost provided a ridiculous rabona assist. Key as Madrid piled on the pressure.

  Federico Valverde (N/A):

  No time to make an impact.

  Carlo Ancelotti (8/10):

  Rotated heavily with one eye on the Champions League semi-final second leg on Wednesday. Madrid were poor in the first half, before turning it on in the second. A classy win.

Lionesses star Millie Bright has admitted that she wondered whether she would play again while on the sidelines for five months with a knee injury.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

• Bright has missed most of season with knee injury
• Lionesses star has opened up on struggles during
• Even admits she mulled over potential retirement

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Bright has missed the majority of this season because of numerous setbacks in her recovery, eventually getting back involved with Chelsea in April having not played since November. Emma Hayes' side have certainly missed her, falling short in the Continental Cup, Women's FA Cup and then the Champions League, with Bright only able to play a few minutes off the bench in the defeat to Barcelona in the latter.

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• Getty
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  But the England defender has at least provided a timely boost for Chelsea as they bid to retain their Women's Super League title and she is back in the Lionesses' squad too, in line for a first appearance for her country in seven months when they play against France later this month.

• WHAT BRIGHT SAID

  Ahead of her recall for England, Bright spoke to about how tough it has been over the last few months, admitting: "There's been ups and downs. Most people probably won't ever know about the downs. I should probably be a little bit more open about those. I don't want to accept that I've been injured and I've missed most of the last season under Emma [at Chelsea]. That's been really hard to take. I've not been able to contribute to the team when I can see they have been struggling.

  "This season more than ever has been extremely difficult. I’ve had plenty of moments where I'm like: 'Eurgh, shall I just call the season and have a break and not try any more?' I've even thought: 'Is that my career done? Shall I just call it a day?' I've not really told anyone that to be honest. It's tough."

  Speaking during Mental Health Awareness Week, Bright added: "I have this thing where I feel I need to protect the ones around me. As athletes, I think we're driven into being thick-skinned and being tough on the outside – so we don't show emotions. I let my walls down, but only with people like Levi [her fiancée], my family or Emma Hayes. She knows when I feel like I'm about to explode. She's like, 'It's written on your face, I can see it. Tell me what's wrong'. It annoys me that she knows even when I've not said anything! But it's been massive."

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• DID YOU KNOW?

  Bright hopes that speaking out about her struggles can help others. "Now more than ever in this world you have to reach out. It's so important that you tell somebody. It allows you to gather your emotions, reset and think clearly," she said. "It helps you know that you have people around you, that can support you and help you when you need it.

  "Sometimes when you're struggling, you feel so alone – but there's people in the same position and probably not really knowing where to go." Just kickstart that conversation to say: 'I'm struggling.' You don't have to be a superhero and save yourself. Someone else can do that. I imagine there are so many people around every person that loves and cares for them. It's easier to fight with people around you than doing it alone."

New Zealand captain happy to have a “somewhat settled squad”, pleased to be part of a three-Test series

Mohammad Isam in Hamilton27-Feb-2019

Kane Williamson has led New Zealand to the No. 2 spot in the Test rankings•Getty Images

The New Zealand way is to be humble, not talk big. They are now the No. 2 side in the Test rankings, but it’s difficult to get Kane Williamson to say anything more than “It’s great to have a somewhat settled squad”.They have one of the strongest pace attacks in the world, which can swing and seam the ball and can be very intimidating for oppositions, particularly in home conditions. They have a batting line-up of two A-listers and several more-than-competent supporting acts, whose runs have contributed enormously to recent wins. They have found a pack of spinners who are competing for spots. They have a standout wicketkeeper and are a brilliant fielding side.But there’s no chance of getting even one of them to act like a star.On Monday, Todd Astle and Ross Taylor acknowledged that it was the “Kiwi way” to be humble.0:18

ODI batting performance of the year: Ross Taylor, 181 not out v England

Williamson, too, wouldn’t be drawn to anything remotely close to boasting.”It’s great to have a somewhat settled squad,” he said. “Experience mixed with an element of youth. It has always been a strength of New Zealand cricket to have guys coming in. But in the last two or three years, the team has been fairly settled.”Allowing guys to feel like they belong, the core group very much feels like that. There are leaders in the group. It is a helpful thing to have this culture. With the old heads around, you can weather some of the bad days a little bit more and bring out the good ones. It is also important to do the groundwork every day you turn up.”Williamson said the team’s focus has firmly been on cricket rather than the results or the frills that come with it.”It is something that you don’t focus on. You focus on the cricket. This year, there’s a little bit more Test cricket than last year,” he said.”You turn up in every game to play the best cricket. It ends there. In terms of results, rankings and how people view it, aren’t really focusses for us. You can look back fondly at the end of the season, but we have some tough cricket coming up.”For a change, though, it’s a three-Test series – against Bangladesh, starting in Hamilton on Thursday – and that has pleased Williamson.”I think we have had a number of two-match Test series, which ended up as one-all. Both sides are saying that it would have been great to have a decider. It is great to be involved in a three-match series,” he said.