Asghar Afghan’s four-year stint as captain of the Afghanistan team across the three formats has come to an end, with the Afghanistan Cricket Board ushering in a new leadership era with Rahmat Shah, Gulbadin Naib and Rashid Khan taking charge of the Test, ODI and T20I teams respectively.Rashid, the face of Afghanistan cricket globally, will also be the vice-captain of the ODI side, while Hashmatullah Shahidi will be the deputy of the Test team, with Shafiqullah performing the role for the T20I side. All the three new captains are under 30 – Rashid is 20, Rahmat 25 and Naib 28 – suggesting a long-term vision; Afghan turned 31 in December last year.According to Azizullah Fazli, the ACB chairman, the changes will provide opportunities to young captains, who are the future of the game in the country. He told ESPNcricinfo, “The World Cup provides us with the opportunity to play against nine Full Members. So we thought it is a good time to introduce change in leadership.”Fazli stressed that Afghan would continue to be a part of the national squad as a senior player who can mentor the new captains. Afghan replaced Mohammad Nabi as the captain immediately after the 2015 World Cup.Asghar Afghan led Afghanistan through a crucial phase in their cricketing journey•Getty Images

Under his captaincy, Afghanistan played 56 ODIs, 46 T20Is and two Test matches. Crucially, he led the team in its historic maiden Test match, against India in June 2018, and more recently to their first Test win, against Ireland.Two of the major architects of the victory over Ireland were Rahmat and Rashid. Rahmat cracked two match-turning half-centuries, while Rashid finished with a match haul of seven wickets including a crucial five-for in Ireland’s second innings.Of the three new captains, Rashid is the only one with any major captaincy experience. He has been a part of the leadership group anyway, and led Afghanistan in four matches – they lost three of them – at the World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe last year while Afghan was indisposed. Rashid, currently playing in the IPL for Sunrisers Hyderabad, has also led Band-e-Amir Dragons and Kabul Zwanan 16 times in T20 cricket, with ten wins and six defeats.Rahmat, meanwhile, has no experience of leadership at first-class level, though he has led the Mis Ainak region four times in List A cricket, losing all four matches. Naib, too, is an inexperienced leader, having led on just two occasions in first-class cricket and nine times in List A cricket for two different teams – the Boost region and the Mis Ainak region.

Aston Villa are enjoying a fantastic campaign and could be able to improve their prospects of a lofty finish in the Premier League table after it emerged that they are now keen on a teen sensation, according to a report.

Aston Villa looking for January reinforcements

Positivity is the main overriding feeling at Aston Villa as they continue to sustain their consistent form in the Premier League under Unai Emery, which the Spaniard will hope to continue by bringing in further reinforcements in January.

According to Football Transfers, the Villans are in the market for options on the flanks this month and they are now said to have made approaches for Galatasaray man Wilfried Zaha and Lazio's Brazilian star Felipe Anderson.

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The outlet claim that Emery is a huge admirer of Zaha and tried to bring him to the Emirates Stadium in 2018 when he was in charge of Arsenal; nevertheless, the Ivory Coast international is happy in Turkey and isn't expected to move on this month.

Roma playmaker Paulo Dybala is the talk of European football right now due to his low release clause of about €13 million (£11.2m) that is set to expire on January 15th, and reports in Italy, via Birmingham Live, indicate that the Villans have spoken to his entourage over a potential move to Villa Park.

Nevertheless, one man who won't be coming to join Aston Villa this window is Dybala's teammate Leonardo Spinazzolla, as confirmed by transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. Now, there is cause for excitement in the West Midlands after latest reports, which suggest that Aston Villa are keen on one of Europe's finest rising stars this month.

Aston Villa keen on Roony Bardghji

According to HITC, Aston Villa are among a clutch of sides keen on Copenhagen sensation Roony Bardghji and contact is believed to have taken place over the availability of the Sweden international. His current employers would demand at least £20 million before considering a sale, though they would prefer to keep him for the rest of the season.

Roony Bardghji key statistics – (Sofascore)

Shots per game

1.5

Chance conversion

28%

Big chances created

2

Key passes per game

1.2

Team of the week inclusions

1

Average match rating

7.21/10

The outlet claim that Tottenham Hotspur, Brentford, Newcastle United, Bayer Leverkusen, Borussia Dortmund, Juventus and Napoli are also showing interest in the 18-year-old, who has burst onto the scene this term and spent time in England over Christmas, where his future was discussed with intermediares.

Labelled "superb" by talent scout Jacek Kulig, the Kuwait City-born winger has shown a clinical edge in front of goal this term, registering 11 strikes in 30 appearances across all competitions (Bardghji statistics – Transfermarkt).

Chelsea and Manchester United have previously been linked with a swoop for the youngster, indicating that there will be a tense battle for his services over the course of the next few weeks. Aston Villa are clearly in the hunt for a winger though and could make a major statement by fending off competition to bring Bardghji to Villa Park.

MatériaMais Notícias

O Flamengo só depende de si para repetir1980, 1982, 1983, 1987, 1992, 2009 e 2019 e ser campeão brasileiro. Restam duas rodadas, sendo a próxima considerada uma “final” contra o Internacional, já que o Rubro-Negro pode assumir a liderança, se vencer, ou perder o título para o Colorado, caso perca. E, para evitar a segunda opção, Hugo Souza terá uma missão essencial nesta que pode ser considerada a primeira decisão do jovem pelo Rubro-Negro.

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A primeira decisão pelos profissionais, diga-se, já que Hugo, pelo sub-20, foi campeão nacional em 2019. Agora a missão é de “gente grande”. E o camisa 45, no auge de seu 1,96m, tem dado conta da responsabilidade que é assumir a vaga de Diego Alves, fazendo valer a sua altura e, principalmente, o seu talento.

Por falar em Diego Alves, o goleiro titular, que só atuou em dez partidas neste Brasileirão, seguirá como ausência por conta de uma lesão muscular na coxa esquerda. Ainda sem saber se jogará na última rodada da competição, ele não se recuperou a tempo para o duelo diante do Inter. Portanto, Rogério Ceni já sabe que o camisa 1 será baixa pela quarta partida consecutiva.

DE OLHO EM RECORDE E NO SONHO

Assim, Hugo Souza irá para mais um jogo como titular, mais precisamente o 23º – de 25, ao todo – na temporada. Os dois seguintes, caso Hugo também jogue a última rodada, podem torná-lo protagonista do seguinte recorde no Flamengo: o goleiro mais jovem aganhar o Brasileiro como titular do clube.

+ Gols, passes, posse, desarmes, faltas… A ‘final’ entre Fla e Inter em números

Hugo tem 22 anos e superaria Raul (que tinha 36 anos no primeiro título, em 1980), Zé Carlos (25 anos em 1987),Gilmar (33 anos em 1992), Bruno (25 anos em 2009) e Diego Alves (34 anos em 2019).

Conhecido como Neneca, o jovem arqueiro pode ficar marcado na história de forma significativa, não só pelo título e o consequente recorde citado acima, mas também por quase ter deixado o clube.

Em setembro de 2020, por exemplo, um dos empresários de Hugo (André Bahia) chegou a dizer que o Flanão tinha projeto para o então quarto goleiro do elenco profissional.

Hoje, a dois passos de um feito memorável, Hugo Souza não esconde o sonho:

– A distância encurtou e só dependemos da gente. É continuar entrando em campo e fazer o nosso melhor, porque é difícil segurar a gente se conseguirmos isso. A gente precisa ser decisivo nas horas que o time precisa. Estamos firmes e estamos fortes – disse, recentemente, antes de postar:

– Seguimos em busca do nosso sonho, lutaremos até o final! Isso aqui é Flamengo!

‘FINAL’ JÁ É AMANHÃ

Fla e Inter se enfrentam às 16h deste domingo, no Maracanã, pela 37ª rodada.

+ Falta pouco! Confira e simule a tabela do Brasileirão

Líder do Campeonato Brasileiro, o Inter conquista o título em caso de vitória. Empate ou vitória do Flamengo deixam a decisão para a última rodada, na qual o Rubro-Negro encara o São Paulo, no Morumbi, enquanto o Colorado recebe o Corinthians, no Beira-Rio.

Celtic have the opportunity to dip into the market to improve their squad this month after the January transfer window officially opened for business last week.

Brendan Rodgers was a busy man throughout the summer ahead of the 2023/24 campaign as the Northern Irish boss brought in a host of new additions.

The Scottish giants brought him back for a second spell at Parkhead to replace Ange Postecoglou, who departed for Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur.

They then backed him in the market with the signings of Marco Tilio, Gustaf Lagerbielke, Hyeok-kyu Kwon, Hyun-jun Yang, Odin Thiago Holm, Maik Nawrocki, Nat Phillips, Paulo Bernardo and Luis Palma.

However, those signings did not push the Hoops on to the next level as they finished rock bottom of their Champions League group and were knocked out of the League Cup during the first half of the season.

Rodgers is now looking to make further additions to his side this month and has been touted with an interest in impressive winger Nicolas Kuhn.

Celtic transfer news – Nicolas Kuhn

The Scottish Sun reported earlier this month that the Hoops are keen on a possible swoop to sign the forward from Austrian side Rapid Vienna before the end of the window.

It was claimed that the Bhoys have been keeping tabs on the young attacker's progress this season and they now have the opportunity to make a move for him ahead of the second half of the campaign.

The report stated that Rodgers would like to bolster the attacking options within his squad and has identified Kuhn as a player who could do just that.

It was also claimed that Rapid Vienna could demand a fee within the region of £2m for the former Bayern Munich prospect, who they signed for £500k.

The Scottish Sun also revealed that a number of players could be on their way out of Parkhead over the coming weeks, which could open up space for Rodgers to make further signings.

Alexandro Bernabei is one player who could be on the chopping block as he is said to be attracting interest from teams in Europe and Argentina. He is currently behind Greg Taylor in the pecking order and could be in search of regular game time.

It was also revealed that Melbourne City are keen on a deal to bring Marco Tilio back to the club on loan. The Australia international has made two Scottish Premiership appearances for the club this season – both as a substitute.

He has not convinced Rodgers to give him regular game time and Kuhn could be brought in to replace the Australian whiz to offer more of an impact for the first-team during the second half of the season.

The 24-year-old dynamo's impressive form for Vienna suggests that he could come in as a big upgrade on current Celtic forward Daizen Maeda, if the club can strike a deal for his services.

Daizen Maeda's season in numbers

So far this season, the Japan international has not been a consistent performer at the top end of the pitch for the Hoops as either a scorer or a creator of goals.

Maeda has registered three goals in 17 Premiership appearances but is not able to blame a lack of service from his teammates for his lack of goals as he has missed eight 'big chances'.

This shows that the 26-year-old forward has left a lot to be desired in front of goal as the attacker has not made the most of the opportunities that have been created for him.

He also failed to score in four Champions League matches and this means that Maeda has failed to provide quality as a scorer or finisher domestically or in Europe.

Creativity has not been his strong suit, either, as the Hoops ace has only provided two assists and made 0.5 key passes per match across his 17 league outings.

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Maeda produced eight goals and five assists in 35 Premiership appearances last season, and missed 11 'big chances'. This means that his lack of consistent end product is not a new issue for Celtic.

He has not been able to make up for his below par finishing with impressive creativity. The experienced forward has assisted seven goals in his last 42 league games for Celtic and has not averaged more than 0.8 key passes per game in that time.

The statistics that show why Kuhn could be a big Maeda upgrade

Rodgers could land a big upgrade on Maeda by securing a £2m deal to sign Kuhn before the end of the January transfer window due to his creative ability.

The German wizard would not provide more quality as a scoring option from the wing as he has only scored two goals from 16 Bundesliga appearances this season.

However, his record at youth and reserve level suggests that the potential is there for him to develop into a better goalscorer in the future.

Nicolas Kuhn's youth/reserve career (via Transfermarkt)

Club

Appearances

Goals

Assists

FC Bayern Munich

37

Six

Three

RB Leipzig

53

27

Eight

Ajax

57

17

12

Hannover

Two

Two

Zero

As you can see from the table above, Kuhn enjoyed an impressive career in development football as a winger with the quality to influence games on a regular basis with goals and assists.

Whilst he has not been able to carry over his goalscoring form, the Rapid Vienna star has showcased his impressive creativity this season.

Kuhn, who was described as "absolutely rapid" by UEFA licensed coach @Inverthewing on X, has created 11 'big chances' and made 1.8 key passes per game in his 16 league outings this term.

The Hoops target, who has racked up seven assists in all competitions, has created seven more 'big chances' than Maeda in one less appearance and averaged 1.3 more key passes per game than the Celtic forward.

He has also completed an impressive 3.1 dribbles per game with a success rate of 62%. Whereas, the Japanese winger has averaged 1.2 per match with a 49% success rate in the Premiership.

These statistics suggest that they are both wasteful in front of goal but Kuhn could be a big upgrade for Celtic both in terms of driving the team up the pitch in transition with his dribbling skills and how much the whiz can create for his teammates in the final third.

As the January transfer window looms, the turning rumour mill is starting to gather speed, with Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp likely to be keeping a keen eye on potential openings.

His side have enjoyed an excellent resurgence after falling by the wayside last year, currently topping the Premier League table after 16 matches – having fixed the broken midfield with four exciting summer additions.

But work is needed across different departments, especially with success on the cards across multiple fronts, and the German manager appears to have identified a teenage talent who could augment the flourishing formative fold.

Liverpool transfer targets – Kenan Yildiz

According to Italian outlet Calciomercato – via Sport Witness – Liverpool are interested in 18-year-old Juventus attacker Kenan Yildiz, having been recommended the Turkish talent by sporting director Jorg Schmadtke.

Given Juventus' well-documented financial struggles, Yildiz's sale could be granted if the Serie A side's €30-40m (£26-34m) valuation is met, with sources in the country believing that the Merseyside outfit boast the financial means to achieve such a deal.

With the Old Lady striving to recuperate funds ahead of spending and settling books in 2024, Yildiz's sale looks to be a real possibility, something Klopp's team could take advantage of.

How Kenan Yildiz compares to Bobby Firmino

Hailed for his "simply brilliant" form in Turin by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Yildiz has not quite cemented a spot in Massimiliano Allegri's Juventus first-team. However, he has chalked up five senior appearances.

All coming in the Serie A this season, the three-cap Turkey international – who scored on his first start against Germany – is evidently a talented player and is noted for his lightning speed and deft dribbling ability by Kulig, with an added emphasis on his remarkable creativity.

Typically fielded as a centre-forward, Yildiz is also competent across both flanks and could bring a sense of dynamism that would really improve Liverpool's squad, joining the likes of Stefan Bajcetic, Ben Doak and Harvey Elliott as stars touted for illustrious futures.

Having plundered 17 goals and eight assists from 52 outings for Juventus' youth outfits, the fleet-footed starlet could bring a unique set of skills to the Anfield side, perhaps even boasting the quality to serve as Roberto Firmino's successor, with the legendary Brazilian departing the club on a free transfer in June after 362 appearances, 111 goals and 79 assists.

Firmino has long been regarded as one of the silkiest and most artful forwards in the Premier League, the fulcrum of Liverpool's devastating and iconic attacking triumvirate alongside Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah.

In a quirky analogy, Klopp once proclaimed that "football is an orchestra", with Firmino, who he called the "complete" player, being the rhythm.

Yildiz offers a similar kind of versatility and creativity, meaning he could be the perfect addition to succeed the 32-year-old, who has forever etched his name into Anfield's lore after elegantly charging immense offensive success and proving to be almost irreplaceable in his craft.

While Juventus have a gem on their hands, circumstances mean that Liverpool could succeed in pulling off a deal, and must now do so to continue the resurgence and ensure a glittering foundation is paved at the base of Klopp's rekindled team.

You may be forgiven for not having watched too much Asian football aside from the odd glimpse of a nation appearing at a World Cup or two. However, considering the names and stories within, new eyes will hopefully be drawn to the continent's major tournament in the coming weeks.

After their first-ever victory in 2019, the next AFC Asian Cup takes place in Qatar and has subsequently been moved due to the desert nation's temperatures. So who will stand out in 2023's Asian Cup? Football FanCast has picked a crop of talents new and old, that could do great things for their respective nations (and even careers) at Asia's next footballing showpiece.

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ByJack Salveson Holmes Jan 3, 2024 10 Hokky Caraka – Indonesia Forward, PSS Sleman

Starting with the first of a handful of gifted young Indonesians, and with the superbly named Hokky Caraka Bintang Brilliant. Only using his first two names, 19-year-old Hokky Caraka plays for PSS Sleman in Indonesia's top flight.

Life in senior football has seen a gradual and steady rise since his formative inclusion in the first team set up in 2021. It's also been said that Hokky has risen through adversity to chase his footballing dream – even travelling 60 kilometres just to get to training. Three senior outings came before 2022-23's 11-game glimpses, but it's been this term where the forward's found his feet. While 20 club appearances have reaped three goals and one assist, it's fair to say that Caraka has boosted his 'hidden gem' status with exploits for the national team.

Since 2022's first run out in Merah Putih colours, Caraka's ascent has been rapid. In July 2022, there were four goals for Indonesia's U19s against Brunei. Then, September saw an U23 debut. His form for them continued with 5 goals in 12. The U23s outings that same month saw a goal in two before the senior team called the revelation up. Here he has two in three – and with the Asian Cup almost upon us, the 5 foot 10 right-footed striker's likely involvement will no doubt have neutrals considering if Indonesia can take some vital chances. There could be huge upsets against group D opponents Japan, Iraq, and Vietnam.

9 Ramadhan Sananta – Indonesia Forward, PERSIS Solo

The second player to watch is 20-year-old Ramadhan Sananta. Sananta plays for PERSIS Solo in the top tier and has already moved about a fair bit – he is a title winner to boot. This is perhaps already due to his scoring exploits as his record is already an impressive sight.

At his first club, PS Harjuna Putra, he scored 9 goals in 12 games. Clearly, this got him snapped up by top-tier Persikabo 1973 – yet here his form faltered with limited chances. Four games brought zero goals, yet he got a move to PSM Makassar and was widely credited for the South Sulawesi club's domestic success. In a historic term where PSM won Liga I for just the second time, a 19-year-old Sananta scored a more-than-helpful 11 goals in 24 games.

To make matters even better for the ever-improving finisher's resume, his international career has also brought the goals. In just seven appearances for the national team – Sananta has notched four goals. Before that for the U22s, Ramadhan scored five superb goals as he powered his side to victory at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia as the tournament's top scorer.

8 Elkan Baggott – Indonesia Defender, Ipswich Town

Ending what's become a miniature Indonesia hype-fest is centre-back Elkan Baggott. The only one of our three Indonesian internationals who doesn't ply his trade in the country, Baggott plays for Ipswich Town in the EFL Championship. Born in Thailand, 21-year-old Elkan has an English father and an Indonesian mother. He learned to play football at school in Indonesia, and that's who he represents at international level.

Part of an intriguing Indonesian generation of footballers, Baggott debatably has the highest pedigree of the bunch. Currently plying his trade in his father's country, Ekan continues to learn under a very progressive young manager Kieran McKenna at Ipswich Town in the English second tier.

Before this, the 6 foot 4 defender cut his teeth in prior seasons with loan moves to King's Lynn Town in the National League, Gillingham and briefly Cheltenham Town in League One. While Caraka and Sananta might do the scoring, Baggott forms the base of a key Indonesian spine. He could play a big part in Qatar and already, he has a steady 19 caps with 2 goals.

7 Firas Al-Buraikan – Saudi Arabia Forward, Al-Ahli

In a league where youth is sometimes neglected for the overpriced near-fictional sums for Europe's scrapheap and wantaway stars, Firas Al-Buraikan sticks out like a sore thumb. A home-grown talent? Why bother with Firmino, Saint-Maximin and Mahrez? Yes, that's a slightly bitter take on Saudi Arabia's recent spending exploits, but within an environment of buy-to-win, Al-Buraikan's talent has been slowly blossoming, and the Asian Cup could be another photosynthetic moment for the 22-year-old.

Since breaking through, a trip to Europe hasn't been on the cards (yet) – but he's grown excellently in the Roshn Saudi League. Although his Al-Nassr career didn't take off with four goals in 28, a move to Al-Fateh was much-needed. At the Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Stadium, Al-Buraikan became a reputable hitman and notched 33 goals in 65 games, adding 9 assists.

This prompted a switch to Al-Ahli, where he's smashed 13 goal involvements in 14 games already. For the national team, he's got six in 36 and as he's hit fine domestic form, he could evolve into the Green Falcons' beacon up top.

6 Ali Al-Hamadi – Iraq Forward, AFC Wimbledon

While Iraq don't immediately spring to mind in football terms, a crop of players look to disprove that. AFC Wimbledon's Ali Al-Hamadi is one of them. The 21-year-old striker, born in Iraq before moving to the UK at an early age, has seen excellent growth since his time with Tranmere Rovers' and Swansea City's youth setups. Eventually moving into the senior ranks of Wycombe Wanderers and showing formative glimpses on loan at National League outfit Bromley, Al-Hamadi has found a serious groove with League Two Wimbledon since January 2023.

As the above video shows, Al-Hamadi has stormed into the Wombles' hearts with his hat-trick against Tranmere. In a wider scoring tally, an exceptional 2022/23 saw ten goals in 19 games. This season, he has 17 in 29 with 7 assists – and with League Two seasons being 46 games long, it's a frightening prospect what the Iraqi youngster could eventually end up with.

The national team have involved the Maysan-born finisher since 2021. Although he's only scored 3 times in 11 outings – fortunes could change if he brings his domestic form into the upcoming AFC competition.

Group A

Group B

Group C

Group D

Group E

Group F

Qatar

Australia

Iran

Japan

South Korea

Saudi Arabia

China

Uzbekistan

UAE

Indonesia

Malaysia

Thailand

Tajikistan

Syria

Hong Kong

Iraq

Jordan

Kyrgyzstan

Lebanon

India

Palestine

Vietnam

Bahrain

Oman

5 Hwang Hee-chan – South Korea Forward, Wolverhampton Wanderers

Hwang Hee-chan is the first South Korean gem to be included in this feature. Perhaps at times a little hit or miss at Wolves since his move from Salzburg initially on loan in 2021/22 – 'Hwangso' (or 'The Bull', as Korean fans affectionately call him) has certainly been pulling his weight this season.

The 27-year-old looks to be reaching his prime and has steadily adapted to Premier League life. Before joining Wolves, Salzburg saw 45 goals in 126 games, with the 2019/20 season alone trailblazing Hwang onto the radars of multiple teams. Here, alongside the likes of Erling Haaland, Patson Daka and Enock Mwepu to name just three – Hwang contributed goals and assists galore.

Across all competitions, he registered 16 goals and 22 assists across 40 games. 11 goals and 12 assists came in the league's 27 outings alone as Salzburg claimed their 14th title – their seventh on the bounce.

Moves to Hamburg and RB Leipzig were unsuccessful. However, after formative adaptation, his comfort at Wolves has grown admirably. Like Al-Hamadi, it's really a case of carrying recent domestic form and energy over to international tournament football as Hwang has enjoyed his best Premier League season yet, as the poaching forward has ten goals and three assists heading into the new year.

If this confidence continues, he could easily add to his 22 direct goal involvements in 59 South Korea matches and become a main focal point alongside Son Heung-min.

4 Lee Kang-in – South Korea Midfielder, Paris Saint-Germain

Following Hwang to the Asian Cup is midfielder Lee Kang-in. Similarly to his compatriot, Lee has had to bide his time when it comes to finding his true form in Europe. Alternatively, Lee had to negotiate wonderkid status and the weight that bears – yet after graduating through Valencia's youth and senior ranks, it was his time at RCD Mallorca that was more than productive.

With an eagle eye for a pass, Lee is also an adept dribbler – and in the 2022/23 season, he became one of the best dribblers in the 'big five' European leagues by making the highest success rate of dribbles and the sixth-highest number of successful dribbles.

Of course, with PSG ruler Kylian Mbappe deserving of only the finest service – Lee was bought by the Parisians in July 2023 to become the first South Korean to play for the club.

An excellent member of a core contingent of skill in South Korea's ranks, it's no wonder the Taegeuk Warriors will be among the favourites to do well.

3 Wataru Endo – Japan Midfielder, Liverpool

Wataru Endo may seem like a bit of a gimme or a sort of replacement inclusion. However, unlike the midfielder's somewhat emergency Liverpool cover-move – the 30-year-old is more than qualified to be seen as a major aid for Japan's clinching of that record fifth Asian Cup title, particularly as the side's skipper.

Part of the squad that lost out to Qatar in 2019's Asian Cup final, Endo has all the tools as a midfield battler and captain to spur Japan on to historic greatness. At Endo's former club, VFB Stuttgart, sporting director Sven Mislintat summed up the consummate pro's sheer influence in 2021.

"As a player and as a person, he’s simply incredibly valuable. He’s one of these anchors, a focal point in our system. Whether he plays as a centre-back or as a defensive midfielder, it’s good that he’s there and performs.”

2 Kim Min-jae – South Korea Defender, Bayern Munich

Rapid ascents have been commonplace in this piece thus far with brilliant youngsters aplenty. However, the theme can continue with senior pros. 26-year-old Kim Min-jae has gone from the depths of the South Korean third division to Europe in just six years, and continues to push his boundaries at Bayern Munich.

Kim's quality is demonstrated by perhaps just how brief his stints at (especially European) clubs have been so far as managers wrestle for the 6 foot 3 unit's signature. Now settled at Bayern after Fenerbahce and league-winning Napoli, Kim can no doubt bring South Korea back to the top of the pile. South Korea haven't won the Asian Cup since way back in 1960. Napoli hadn't won a Serie A title for 33 years before prime Kim's impact…

In that title-winning term, Napoli conceded just 28 goals with Kim largely responsible. Given the aforementioned talent in midfield and his teammate below, the 'monster' (as nicknamed early in his career) could yet inspire his nation from defence.

1 Son Heung-min – South Korea Forward, Tottenham Hotspur

Completing this feature, as well as our core of South Koreans, comes Spurs' Son Heung-min. For 31-year-old Son, the importance of a solid Asian Cup run and just how long it's been since victory won't likely be lost on him.

Now undertaking the role of captain, the predominantly positive attacker has evolved into a new figure at club level and for his country – particularly with the former's departure of Harry Kane. Son's stat sheet is quite something while trying to demonstrate his box-office quality. With amazing goals (such as the one featured below), the Korean's consistency has been debatably wasted by trophy-shy Tottenham.

In the white half of north London, Son has netted a jaw-dropping 157 goals in 393 all-competition games, with 85 assists to boot. For his country, Son has a little way to go if he's to beat the legendary Cha Bum-kun's scoring record of 58 goals. Son needs 18 more goals, and although not at all likely he could do it in this one tournament alone – goals, creation and success could be an extra motivation for Tottenham's star.

Widely considered to be his nation's finest modern export, Son's quality has been matched by those around him and now South Korea could grab a first AFC trophy since 1960's win on home soil.

Napoli have reportedly made a transfer decision on Khvicha Kvaratskhelia amid interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Premier League clubs.

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Kvaratskhelia in demand after a stellar seasonNapoli keen to hold on to himSet to offer him a fresh contract with renewed release clauseWHAT HAPPENED?

According toNapoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is not keen on selling Kvaratskhelia during the upcoming summer transfer window. Napoli aims to retain the services of the Georgian international, especially with star striker Victor Osimhen poised to depart the club.

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Despite the significant increase in his market value, De Laurentiis remains steadfast in his stance and is working to offer him an extension to fend off any possible interest from any potential suitor. Moreover, a fresh release clause could also be negotiated which could be around €150 million (£130m/$162m).

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According to reports in Italian media, Kvaratskhelia currently earns around €1.2 million per season but could see wages spike to at least €4.5m including add-ons upon signing the new deal. It will also see his contract extended until 2028 with the Partenopei.

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WHAT NEXT?

As Napoli prepare for the upcoming season, the potential retention of Kvaratskhelia signals their intent to compete at the highest level. After a disappointing campaign, which will see them miss out on European qualification, De Laurentiis remains determined to turn around the fortunes of the club and Kvaratskhelia's continued presence in Napoli's ranks promises to be a significant factor in the club's pursuit of glory.

استطاع منتخب مصر الأول لكرة القدم، الفوز على الرأس الأخضر بثلاثية دون رد، خلال المباراة التي انتهت منذ قليل في تصفيات كأس الأمم الإفريقية 2025.

وتواجه منتخب مصر والرأس الأخضر على أرضية ملعب استاد القاهرة الدولي في إطار مباريات الجولة الأولى بتصفيات أمم إفريقيا.

وسجل رامي ربيعة هدف مصر الأول في الدقيقة 23، بعد عرضية من زيزو قابلها ربيعة برأسية سكنت الشباك.

طالع أيضاً.. ترتيب مجموعة مصر في تصفيات كأس أمم إفريقيا بعد الفوز على الرأس الأخضر

وأحرز عمر مرموش الهدف الثاني في الدقيقة 45 من عمر الشوط الأول، بعد تمريرة من مصطفى محمد قابلها مرموش بتسديدة مباشرة في الشباك.

وأضاف إبراهيم عادل الهدف الثالث في الدقيقة 70، بعد متابعته لتسديدة مصطفى فتحي ليضعها داخل الشباك.

ويتواجد منتخب مصر في المجموعة الثالثة التي تضم إلى جواره منتخبات الرأس الأخضر وبوتسوانا وموريتانيا.

بهذا الفوز يحتل منتخب مصر صدارة ترتيب المجموعة الثالثة برصيد 3 نقاط، بينما يأتي الرأس الأخضر بالمركز الرابع والأخير بدون نقاط. أهداف مباراة مصر والرأس الأخضر في تصفيات كأس أمم إفريقيا

West Brom are in the race to sign a "superb" international player on loan in the January transfer window, according to a fresh update.

West Brom transfer news

The Baggies continue to look like strong promotion contenders in the Championship this season, with Carlos Corberan guiding his side into the playoff positions currently.

While an automatic spot is looking difficult, given the relentless nature of Leicester City and Ipswich Town, West Brom look like one of the best of the rest. For them to continue this consistency, new signings in January could be needed, however, in terms of having as many options as possible, and keeping players fresh come the business end of the campaign.

Peterborough United ace Kwame Poku has emerged as a rumoured transfer target for the Baggies, with six goals and seven assists coming his way this season, and Barnsley midfielder Callum Styles has also been seen as a potential addition at the Hawthorns.

Now, a fresh claim suggests that West Brom could be looking to the Premier League for January reinforcements, with a temporary move for one player in the offing.

West Brom want Conor Bradley

According to TEAMtalk, West Brom have made contact with Liverpool youngster Conor Bradley over a loan move in January, but face stiff competition for his signature.

"TEAMtalk has been informed Liverpool are ready to loan out defensive prospect Conor Bradley in January and are fielding enquiries from a host of clubs.

"TEAMtalk has been told that up to a dozen clubs have made contact with the Reds as Bradley would be a player in real demand if they allowed him to leave. Among those interested are Burnley, Leeds, Middlesbrough and West Brom."

Bradley could be a really astute signing by West Brom, with the 20-year-old even in action for Liverpool on Thursday night, playing all 90 minutes of his side's 2-1 defeat to Union SG in the Europa League.

The right-back's playing time for the Reds is clearly going to be limited, however, considering Trent Alexander-Arnold is among Europe's leading players in his position, and Joe Gomez also represents a solid option, so a loan move could make perfect sense for everyone.

The 13-time capped Northern Ireland international has been hailed by veteran international colleague Jonny Evans in the recent past, with the Manchester United defender saying of him:

"I thought Conor Bradley was superb the other night [against Kosovo], and Shea Charles came in during the summer and that is what we want to see – young lads making an impression and hopefully bring the country forward."

Bradley could come straight in and provide competition for Darnell Furlong at right-back, easing his workload and giving Corberan an extra option in that position, and he is someone who will have learned from playing alongside some world-class footballers, from Mohamed Salah to Virgil van Dijk.

John Percy drops massive West Brom takeover update

There has been a significant development at the Hawthorns.

ByHenry Jackson Dec 13, 2023

There is clearly a lot of interest in the Liverpool man – a switch to Burnley would allow him to remain in the Premier League – but the lure of the Baggies could still be great, as they chase promotion back to the top flight, making this one to watch.

Rohit Sharma and Mahela Jayawardene credited collective, not individual, brilliance for Mumbai’s sustained success

Deivarayan Muthu12-May-2019Mumbai Indians closed out April with four successive games on the road and then edged Sunrisers Hyderabad in a crazy super-over finish at the Wankhede. As things panned out, they had to win their final league game, also at home, against Kolkata Knight Riders to top the points table. Rohit Sharma’s men ticked it off and pressed onto topple Chennai Super Kings in the first qualifier at Chepauk. All of this resulted in a welcome four-day break for Mumbai before the final.Rohit found time to visit the Tirupati temple while the rest of his team-mates and their families got together for a squad dinner in Hyderabad. On the eve of another Mumbai v Super Kings final, Rohit and coach Mahela Jayawardene were in a similar relaxed state of mind and urged their players to shelve emotions, too, and not get ahead of themselves.”Every now and then we’ve spoken to the guys about not getting too emotional about the finals or playoff games you play,” Rohit said. “We just want to focus on the game at hand and not think too far ahead. That particular thing has helped us as a team moving forward. So, I don’t think we need to change anything else, and continue to focus in that direction. If we keep doing that, it’ll work for years to come as well.”Not letting emotions cloud their judgement so far has been central to Mumbai’s run to the final. Lasith Malinga was the side’s bowling mentor last season, but they got him on board again as a player in the IPL 2019 auction after he had worked on his fitness and rediscovered his bowling rhythm. Mayank Markande, who was Mumbai’s biggest success story last season, couldn’t quite replicate his form this season, and was left out in favour of Rahul Chahar, who has produced crucial breakthroughs in the Powerplay as well as middle overs. Suryakumar Yadav had a patchy start to the tournament, but peaked against Super Kings in the first qualifier to launch Mumbai into the final.”It’s important we trust a group of players,” Jayawardene said. “And we identify the guys who are performing and who are in form and once you’re transparent about that everyone understands what’s the best XI and they pick themselves quite easily. Mayank [Markande] started the season, but we felt Rahul [Chahar] was bowling much better and his rhythm was better. So, we went with that option. Same with Lasith [Malinga].Rahul Chahar is pumped after dismissing M Vijay•BCCI”Last year, Lasith was injured and not in great form. This year we thought he was back in form and would be a good foil for [Jasprit] Bumrah because at the back end lots of teams are leaking runs in that department. So, we want to have experience there. So, it’s a collective decision. It’s not an easy one, but as long as you’re honest and there’s a process behind the decision-making, things become easier and that entire group understands that and that’s transparent. That has helped us become consistent over the years and that’s been a part of the success as well as they come out and play fearless cricket in that environment.”Having beaten Super Kings three times in three games this season and twice in three IPL finals, Mumbai head into this IPL final with a significant advantage. When asked if performing against Super Kings brings the best out of Mumbai, Rohit simply downplayed the rivalry and said that anyone could beat anyone in the IPL, citing the example of Rajasthan Royals defeating Mumbai twice this season, but still suffering a premature exit.”I wouldn’t agree with that [Super Kings bringing the best out of Mumbai?]. The tournament itself is the biggest challenge,” Rohit said. “Every team has threats in their team. You have to be good on that particular day to beat any team. Royals for example, have not qualified but they’ve beaten us twice. MI v CSK – the reason there’s a lot of hype around is because they’ve been so successful in winning the championship. That’s probably the reason everybody looks forward to this clash and there’s a lot of talk going around these two teams. I see every team as a threat, because if you lose the grip at any stage against any opposition, you might not have the result you’re looking for.”Both Rohit and Jayawardene credited collective, not individual, brilliance for Mumbai’s sustained success. Five bowlers have claimed 10 or more wickets for Mumbai this season and although Rohit hasn’t quite fired like he can, Quinton de Kock, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Suryakumar and Ishan Kishan have all made telling contributions with the bat.”Finding different match-winners is something we spoke of at the beginning of the season,” Jayawardene said. “It takes pressure off key players as well – otherwise, they are going to a game under pressure. Whereas when you have six-seven guys to win a battle for you out there, it gives you opportunities to win matches. That’s something we realised you require in such a tournament. And playing home and away as well – different conditions suits different players. Another factor is that opposition also finds it difficult to plan or have an idea how we approach different games because different guys are actually performing.”I’ve always believe that teams wins championships, individuals can win you matches, but you need a good group and team to win championships. That’s something we’ve tried doing.”