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Glasgow Rangers will want to avenge their loss to St. Mirren in the Betfred Cup when they travel to Paisley to take on the Saints in the Scottish Premiership on Wednesday afternoon.

Steven Gerrard will be well aware that it won’t be a walk in the park for the 54-time Scottish champions, having borne witness to a humiliating last-gasp defeat at the hands of Jim Goodwin’s side earlier this month.

Besides that humbling defeat, Rangers have been in scintillating form since the start of the season, with 18 wins, two draws and no defeats in the top flight. But with games coming thick and fast this month and next – they play Celtic three days after facing the Saints – Gerrard will want to rotate his squad in the midst of a busy schedule.

With that in mind, Gerrard may decide to bring Calvin Bassey back into the fold to face the Saints at St. Mirren Park.

The 20-year-old has featured seven times in the Premiership this season, but has only started on three occasions so far, with his last appearance coming by way of the fateful quarter-final against St. Mirren in the Scottish League Cup.

He has been left as an unused substitute on the bench for the past three games in the top flight, with 28-year-old defender Borna Barisic preferred in his place instead.

Gerrard’s undisputed first-choice left-back put in an immense shift against Hibernian, but if the Ibrox boss does decide to give Barisic a break, then Bassey surely must be his first port of call to replace the Croatian on the left side.

Equally capable of playing at centre-back or full-back, the Englishman, who turns 21 in a matter of days, could cause Goodwin’s side all sorts of problems bombing up and down the flanks with his bursts of pace and pinging crosses into the box.

Gerrard has been effusive in his praise for the Leicester City academy product, telling reporters after the Europa League game against Standard Liege:

“I thought Calvin was outstanding. For someone who has very little experience, to come into a game as big as that and at that level and perform the way he did made us very proud.

“He’s a fantastic kid, a kid who wants to learn, who wants grow and evolve and with team we’re really confident we can help polish him up and get him to become even better than he is.

“He’s got real interesting attributes right now and he showed them on Thursday night, which was fantastic to see.”

In seven appearances in the Premiership this season, Bassey is averaging 1.7 tackles and one interception per game, via WhoScored.

It’s fair to say that the youngster has turned out to be an absolute gem ever since he arrived at Ibrox in the summer. He bagged his first goal for the club against Falkirk in the Betfred Cup and his endurance and durability could be key for the Gers keeping another clean sheet if he is selected.

AND in other news, Steven Gerrard dealt huge blow as Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack remains sidelined due to injury…

Liverpool are already making moves to try and solve their current defensive disaster. With Virgil van Dijk likely to be out for the rest of the season and both Fabinho and Joel Matip also sidelined, it’s crunch time for Jurgen Klopp.

The manager needs to make quick decisions if he wants to save Liverpool’s chances of silverware this season. As it stands, Joe Gomez is the club’s only fit senior centre-back, which is not a situation anyone expected to see them in.

The Reds have been admirers of Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly for months now and look to have reignited their interest in his services. However, splashing the cash on the Senegal international could end up doing more harm than good to this Liverpool side.

Should Liverpool sign Koulibaly?

At face value, Liverpool would be foolish to pass up the opportunity to bring the 6ft1 powerhouse to Anfield. The Mirror has reported that Napoli would be willing to let the centre-back leave if an asking price of £65million is met. Whilst this is a pretty hefty amount given the current financial climate, it’s doable for the reigning Premier League champions who just splashed £41million on Diogo Jota.

Koulibaly is already tried and tested and would slot into the Liverpool side nicely. He would also make for a superb partner for van Dijk once he returns from injury. When Napoli faced the Reds back in November 2019, the 29-year-old won 100% of his aerial duels and contributed eight clearances, two blocks and 100% of his dribbles, showing a likeness to Liverpool’s No.4 (via Sofascore).

Roberto Firmino was unable to make any sort of impact on that game, with Koulibaly going as far as clearing his huge chance off the line to keep Napoli in the game.

However, whilst he would be a hugely beneficial addition to this Liverpool side, signing the Senegalese defender could also be very costly.

Divock Origi looks set to be leaving the club in January in search of a loan move. International football is currently his priority and he is looking to give himself the best possible chance to feature for Belgium in the EUROs. This will leave Klopp with only Firmino to deploy as his striker, which is a worrying thought for the holding champions.

Fabinho is set to return after a few weeks and could make a huge impact once he returns, this means the Reds can arguably survive until the summer with him, Gomez and Matip. But should Origi leave, Liverpool cannot move forward without a back-up senior striker.

Michael Edwards has a huge predicament on his hands as he decides where to spend the club’s money in January. One player gained could be detrimental in another area of the team.

In other news, Antonio Rudiger should be serious transfer option for Liverpool in January…

Glasgow Rangers sporting director Ross Wilson has hardly put a foot wrong since he first arrived at the Ibrox outfit from Premier League side Southampton. Now he has a chance to give a lifelong fan a dream chance to play for Steven Gerrard’s side if recent reports are to be believed.

What’s the story?

According to The Sun’s Alan Nixon, Rangers are considering a shock move for Norwich City midfielder Kenny McLean in January.

It’s claimed that Gerrard is closely monitoring the situation as he is well aware that McLean has been in and out of the Canaries first team since they were relegated from the Premier League.

The Ibrox boss is believed to be eyeing a swoop for the Scotland hero in the winter transfer window after he helped Steve Clarke’s side secure their spot for the Euro 2020 Championships next summer by scoring his penalties in the play-off shootout victories over both Israel and Serbia.

Rangers are reportedly lining up either a deal to be paid in instalments or an initial loan deal with the option to buy in the summer. However, McLean signed a new contract with the Canaries only a couple of months ago, which ties him down at Carrow Road until 2023.

Wilson’s time to shine

This is Wilson’s time to shine as he notoriously drives a hard bargain, having developed a reputation for being the key figure in the club’s recruitment during his time at St Mary’s. He oversaw the arrival of former Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk before selling him to Liverpool for a huge profit.

McLean has scored one goal in eight games in the Championship so far this season, despite the fact he has only started four of those games. The Scottish international may decide a change of scenery is in his best interests with the Euros just around the corner.

With the 28-year-old potentially looking to leave Carrow Road and with Norwich feeling the impact as a result of these unprecedented circumstances, the Canaries may have to cash in on the Scotsman sooner rather than later.

McLean, whose market value is estimated at £2.88m via Transfermarkt, has made 72 appearances for Norwich, scoring five goals and supplying eight assists in all competitions so far.

Once hailed as an “irreplaceable” dynamo by Norwich boss Daniel Farke, the former Aberdeen and St Mirren man should be able to hit the ground running. He also has experience of playing in the Europa League qualifying rounds, which is surely an added bonus.

The centre-midfielder, who can also be deployed as an attacking midfielder or out wide, could be the perfect deputy for Rangers star Joe Aribo, who himself has become a versatile option under Gerrard, having replaced Ianis Hagi on the right-wing in recent weeks before the international break.

However, the Gers are hardly short of options in the midfield, as Gerrard can call upon the likes of Steven Davis, Bongani Zungu, Glen Kamara, Ryan Jack and Scott Arfield as well. However, Arfield isn’t getting any younger, whilst it remains to be seen if Davis will be offered a new deal or not, as his current contract will run out in 2021.

Wilson may feel that he will be able to negotiate a cut-price deal with the Canaries for McLean in the coming months as the Euros loom ever nearer, with the Scotsman keen to add to his 16 caps for his country so far.

AND in other news, Watch out Arfield: Bongani Zungu sends a timely reminder to Steven Gerrard with South Africa display…

According to a report from Calciomercato, Tottenham could re-sign Christian Eriksen in January as Inter Milan entertain the possibility of a swap deal involving either Danny Rose or Dele Alli. This report comes just a week after prominent Italian journalist Mario Sconcerti claimed that the Dane’s situation is now a ‘serious case’. 

Eriksen, who left north London for the San Siro back in January, has found game time difficult to come by under Antonio Conte – particularly this season.

Eriksen return on the cards

On the fringes of Conte’s plans, the £45 million-valued ace could well leave Inter just one year after putting pen to paper on a deal – with journalist Fabrizio Romano recently ruling out the possibility of a loan move.

Indeed, as the transfer guru puts it, Eriksen’s departure from the Serie A giants will have to come in the form of a permanent move – and Jose Mourinho’s side are now being touted with a return for their former star.

As explained by Calciomercato, a swap deal including either Rose, who would strengthen Inter’s left side, or Alli is being entertained as a real possibility – especially considering both men find themselves in a difficult situation under Mourinho.

Transfer Tavern take

Gareth Bale’s return to Hotspur Way was deemed a fairy tale, and with this report now claiming another hero could feasibly return, the story of happy reunions may not have ended yet.

Described as a player ‘Jose really likes’ by Lilywhites legend Graham Roberts and as a ‘genius’ by Glenn Hoddle, Eriksen’s return to Spurs could definitely get fans talking.

Whether or not the move eventually happens is a different story, but judging by these recent claims, you cannot rule it out.

In other news: Spurs have received an ‘amazing’ ENIC update,  find out more here.

A number of Manchester United fans have been reacting to footage which has emerged on Twitter of Harry Maguire being turned inside out by Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold in training for England.

Maguire has endured a frustrating start to the season on a personal level, with the defender coming under scrutiny. The Englishman has been part of a United backline that has shipped three goals against Crystal Palace, two against Brighton and six against Tottenham Hotspur in their first three Premier League matches.

In the Red Devils’ 6-1 humbling by Tottenham at Old Trafford in their last game before the international break, Maguire delivered a terrible performance, making one error leading to a goal and also giving the ball away on 11 occasions, as per Sofascore.

The 27-year-old would have been looking to go away with England and put his club form behind him in the upcoming games against Belgium and Denmark in the UEFA Nations League. However, footage has now emerged on Twitter of the defender being spun by Alexander-Arnold in training before the Liverpool defender found the back of the net with a well-taken solo effort.

Many Manchester United fans were quick to point out that this sort of form is typical of what Maguire has been producing during the opening stages of the season.

United fans slate Harry Maguire as footage emerges

United fans, can Maguire rediscover his best form or is this starting to be a real concern? Let us know your thoughts by commenting below!

Aston Villa striker Mbwana Samatta is set to be the subject of a loan offer from Turkish side Fenerbahce, according to a report from A Spor.

Villa boss Dean Smith saw the likes of Keinan Davis, Wesley and Samatta struggle for consistent form last season and the latter is now being linked with a move away from the club.

Despite arriving in January for £9.45m, Samatta’s future with the Claret and Blue side now looks bleak with the Midlands club opting to bring in Ollie Watkins from Brentford.

Watkins netted an impressiveÂ26 goals in the Championship last term for Brentford and the youngster will be expected to start ahead of the aforementioned trio.

To add to Watkins’ arrival, Villa are also now being linked with Lyon striker Bertrand Traore, with a latest report claiming that talks are underway over a £19m transfer.

Reacting to the potential exit for Samatta this summer, fans were pretty split. Some were happy to see the back of the £8.55m-valued man given he has only scored twice in 16 appearances for the club, whilst others were keen to give him another chance having only joined in January…

Do you think Samatta should leave Villa on loan? Let us know in the comments section below…

Manchester United are reportedly in the market for 23-year-old Donny van de Beek from Ajax this summer.

According to a report from Voetbal International (via Sport Witness), Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is interested in bringing the midfielder to Old Trafford and the club are ‘preparing an offer’ for him.

The report claims that, despite no official moves being made as of yet, negotiations with United are likely to ‘start soon’.

Real Madrid are also reportedly interested in snapping up the Netherlands international but the Red Devils are confident they can beat the La Liga side to his signature. However, Los Blancos have already offered €50m (£44.6m) for Van de Beek.

The attacking midfielder’s performances this season warrant such intense interest from big clubs. He has tallied eight goals and six assists in the Eredivisie this term and 10 goals and 11 assists overall (via Transfermarkt).

United have struggled this season but are on the rise and will be pushing for a spot in the Champions League once the campaign resumes this month. The addition of a clinical midfielder could be what the Reds need to continue their positive run of form into next season.

Man United’s issues with Paul Pogba are ongoing, with former Liverpool player Danny Murphy claiming the club cannot afford to play both the Frenchman and Bruno Fernandes (via Express). Reports linking Pogba away from Old Trafford have been circulating but the current financial climate has put a lot of big money moves on hold.

If the club decide to put an official bid in for Van de Beek, United could be looking at their solution to the inconsistent Pogba, who has barely featured this season. Whether the France international leaves this summer or not, he could end up being completely cast aside in favour of the Ajax man.

Van de Beek has notched up an impressive senior career total of 41 goals and 34 assists during his time in his home country and now could be the time to search for pastures new. Man United is certainly an eye-catching team and, as a player who is still young, he will have plenty of room to grow and showcase his ability in arguably the biggest league in the world.

What’s your take, United fans? Should the club sign Donny van de Beek this summer? Join the conversation in the comments below!

Newcastle United fans are loving the latest news surrounding their imminent takeover after reports emerged suggesting that the UK government wouldn’t intervene in any deal.

The Telegraph claim Conservative MP Giles Watling’s request to investigate the Saudi Arabia-backed bid over piracy of sports in the Middle East state will be rejected.

Instead, the Digital, Culture, Media & Sport select committee will focus on the impact that the pandemic has had on the sectors it oversees.

It means that the only green light left to overcome is that of the Premier League, who are still undergoing the owners and directors test.

Hilariously obscure Premier League players – Can you name them all?

World Class score: 95% | Expert score: 80% | Veteran score: 65% | Intermediate score: 45% | Amateur score: 30% | Try Again: 5%

The Magpies faithful have been lapping up this latest report on social media after it was relayed by popular fan account @NUFC360.

United’s takeover may be dragging on and on, but it appears as if it is slowly edging ever closer to being official.

Here’s how the supporters have been reacting…

AND in other news, Lee Ryder claim on Mike Ashley amid Newcastle takeover…

In a Q&A on The Chronicle, Lee Ryder revealed that players he had to spoken to at Newcastle are “excited” about the club’s new future.

What did he say?

The Magpies are deep in discussions over entering new ownership, and whilst things have not been ratified or confirmed just yet, Ryder has claimed that Newcastle’s stars are very much looking forward to a fresh era at St James’ Park.

The Greatest Bargains in Premier League history – How much did they cost?

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He said: “The players I have spoken to are excited about the prospect of a new era at the club. Nobody will complain about the chance to be part of the club when it enjoyed an elevated status. I just hope that people keep their eye on the ball.

“There are a few young players who need to be tied down on deals like Matty and Sean Longstaff. This would be a great time to sort their contracts out given the pair could be worth £100million to the club at some stage.”

Excitement

Whilst Newcastle fans are rightfully excited about finally escaping their Mike Ashley nightmare, the players themselves will no doubt be feeling similar thoughts of hope.

The work Rafa Benitez and Steve Bruce have done in ensuring the Magpies’ Premier League status over the past couple of seasons has meant that some major financial investment could really kick-start things and take the club to the next level.

The prospect of seeing major new signings will only excite the players as well as the fans.

With 70 minutes gone against AFC Bournemouth, Tottenham Hotspur were 3-0 up and cruising.

However, by the time that the game was over they were hanging onto their lead by a thread, following two goals from Harry Wilson.

Despite the late struggles, Spurs’ admin celebrated the win as the final whistle blew, with the three points coming courtesy of a Dele Alli brace and volley from Moussa Sissoko.

However, there were many fans who couldn’t get past how close the team’s defence came to falling apart, especially as it wasn’t the first time.

Against West Ham United, they conceded two goals to ensure hearts were still beating quickly in the final moments, while there were also two goals conceded in the Champions League against Olympiacos.

Therefore, supporters have demanded that their team stops shipping goals, specifically at times where they should be able to comfortably secure the win.

As well as the frustration, there was appreciation shown for Jan Vertonghen and his last-ditch tackle that made sure Spurs did eventually take all three points.

This came when Callum Wilson had been released through on goal, but the Belgian was able to make a sliding intervention when the Bournemouth man was waiting for the ball to drop.

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