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Rangers chiefs could take a "risk" with one potential appointment after a "very interesting" candidate emerged, says reporter Dean Jones.

When will Rangers appoint a new manager?

The Glasgow giants, after sacking Michael Beale last week, are reportedly set to make a final decision very soon as they hold a final round of interviews in London this week. Sky Sports have claimed that Rangers are holding their last round of discussions with candidates down south, with two names leading what is now a two-horse race. Both former AS Monaco manager Philippe Clement, who won a plethora of titles in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League, and Yokohoma.F Marinos head coach Kevin Muscat are in contention to succeed Beale.

Rangers currently sit seven points behind Old Firm rivals Celtic in the Scottish Premiership table, numbers which make for grim reading, and they have already lost three league games. This poor form resulted in Beale's sacking, and if results don't pick up, Rangers risk falling behind the Hoops and watching them secure a third-successive domestic crown.

The Teddy Bears have also been booed off the pitch on multiple occasions this season, highlighting the dire state of some performances. This is despite Rangers bringing in many fresh faces over the summer transfer window. Abdallah Sima, Dujon Sterling, Kieran Dowell, Jack Butland, Leon Balogun, Sam Lammers, Cyriel Dessers, Danilo and Jose Cifuentes all put pen to paper on moves to Glasgow, with a good few either sidelined or under-performing.

Rangers news: Philippe Clement update

Clement is a name with proven experience winning silverware on the continent, having lifted domestic trophies in Belgium across spells at both Genk and Club Brugge. The tactician was also head-hunted by Ligue 1 side AS Monaco and is currently without a club, surely making him an excellent candidate to step into Beale's shoes at Ibrox. Indeed, Monaco sporting director Paul Mitchell even once called him "one of the most prominent and successful coaches in Europe in recent years."

"His profile as a modern coach, with his teams playing with great intensity and [is] daring, including on the continental stage," said Mitchell.

"His ability to combine titles and the development of young players have made him one of the most prominent and successful coaches in Europe in recent years."

Jupiler Pro League

4

Belgian Super Cup

2

Belgian Cup

1

Journalist Dean Jones, speaking to GiveMeSport, shared his own Clement manager update. He believes that while the 49-year-old fancies the job, and is an extremely intriguing candidate, the club could also be taking a "risk" with his potential hire.

"Philippe Clement seems to be one that is a very interesting candidate to emerge. I think the fact he fancies the job is a good sign. In terms of credentials, I also think he is a pretty good profile fit. Appointing him would be a bit of a risk because there are going to be a few unknowns around him. But, generally, this feels like a better path to go down instead of picking someone on name and standing, like you would be with someone like Frank Lampard."

With Liverpool starting the season strongly, all is good at Anfield once again after a 2022/23 season littered with struggling and misfortune.

The Reds have charged into form since the summer, winning six matches on the trot across all competitions after starting proceedings with a draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League.

No doubt, there is more work to be done, but the club looks so much stronger, more organised, and more intense than it did last season, where months of poor form threw Jurgen Klopp's side into insignificance.

A late burst of form did result in Liverpool's resurgence, though it was too little too late as the efforts of Manchester United and Newcastle United proved too strong for the fraught Merseyside club, who could only finish fifth and ceded their spot in the Champions League.

One of the bright sparks from a gloomy campaign was the emergence of Stefan Bajcetic, who, aged 18, provided his outfit with some newfound energy and ferocity in midfield, heralded for his "exceptional" displays by his manager.

His rise is a testament to the rekindled vigour of the Liverpool youth academy, which has welcomed through vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold in recent years and rising first-team star Curtis Jones, who continues to impress this season.

Ben Doak is the latest prodigy edging his way into Klopp's plans, and what a player the Anfield side might have as he continues to make the increments with an age-belying flourish.

How much did Liverpool pay for Ben Doak?

Doak is a Scottish winger with blistering pace and a diminutive stature that allows him to utilise his low centre of gravity to great effect, whizzing and weaving through the half-spaces and wide channels to drive the ball into the danger area.

Still only 17-years-old, he signed for Liverpool from an Ange Postecoglou-led Scottish Premiership giants Celtic for a compensation fee of about £600k, having made two senior appearances for the Hoops despite residing in his formative years.

While the fee paid is quite tall for an unknown youth commodity, he already seems to be repaying the faith entrusted in his precocity and is already valued at £4m by Football Transfers, which marks a 570% increase from that initial fee already.

Clearly, there is a lot to come from this teenage talent, and it's frankly frightening to imagine how steep a rise his price might stretch to as he blossoms over the coming years.

How good is Ben Doak?

Yet to reach his 18th year, Doak has posted 11 goals and eight assists from just 27 matches for Liverpool's respective youth sides, with his performances prompting Klopp to open the door to senior action.

Indeed, having impressed during pre-season and especially after an elegant display against imperious German Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, he has already found opportunities to impress this term.

Doak came off the bench against Chelsea in the Premier League opener, and while he sat the following two matches on the bench, he remained an unused substitute and has not been included in the matchday squad for the previous encounters against Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United.

Despite this, he did earn his maiden start against LASK in the Europa League, and while he only recorded a 5/10 match rating – according to Goal – who said he 'found it tough to create anything against a tight defence. Looked a bit brighter in the second half but went off at the hour mark', he looked lively nonetheless.

As per Sofascore, the wily winger did win five of his 12 contested ground duels and succeeded with three of his six attempted dribbles; hardly groundbreaking stuff, true, but it is further evidence of a burgeoning starlet willing to put in the hard graft and work diligently toward his end goal: cementing a spot in Klopp's first-team.

Proclaimed to be a genuine "prodigy" by Liverpool reporter Keifer MacDonald, the ace is headed for glory and is undisputably one of the most promising talents in England, let alone Liverpool, but Liverpool might just have an even bigger prospect in their mix, albeit at a more rudimentary stage. Step forward, Trey Nyoni.

Who is Trey Nyoni?

That rising star is Nyoni, who is still only 16-years-old but has captured the awe at youth level during the short time he has forged his path on Merseyside.

Born in 2007, the dynamic midfielder arrived from Leicester City in the summer following their relegation from the English top-flight in May, though he is some way from making his entrance to senior action.

Despite his youth, the young Englishman (who is eligible to play international football for Zimbabwe through his parentage), has already unearthed a cutting edge to his game that has set the fans' excitement into life.

Across his first two outings in the Premier League 2 for Liverpool, Nyoni has scored in both games and recently bagged a last-gasp winner against Everton in the Merseyside youth derby.

His natural inclination for goalscoring leaves him in good standing for a rise up the ranks in the future, and while he can play on the left wing, he is best used as a creative midfielder in the No. 10 role.

Lauded for his “impressive” start to life at the club by distinguished reporter Neil Jones, who stressed that he is one for fans to keep their eye on, Nyoni is already starring at such a young age, and it is a real possibility that he will continue to grow into a first-class prospect over the coming years.

Doak is a special talent, yes, but that is not to say that his ceiling eclipses the other hopefuls residing in Liverpool's formative ranks; whisper it quietly, but the Anfield side offer a rich pool of young quality right now, and Nyoni could be one to rise to prominence under Klopp's tutelage in a few years.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have had a challenging year so far, with the club undergoing a tough 2022/23 campaign and an even more difficult summer break.

The Old Gold were bottom of the table on Christmas Day of 2022, however turned things around under Julen Lopetegui to secure survival.

The extent of the club’s financial issues came to light just prior to the opening of the transfer window, leaving the former manager restricted to who he could bring in.

As a result of the mishaps with funds, Lopetegui left his post as manager just five days before Wolves’ Premier League opener of the 2023/24 campaign, replaced swiftly by Gary O’Neil.

Luckily, the club had a host of talent that they could offload this summer to generate the much-needed funds in the attempt to balance the books, with their biggest sales coming from Nathan Collins, Ruben Neves and Matheus Nunes.

While Neves spent six years at Molineux, both Collins and Nunes were purchased only the summer prior to their exit, with the Old Gold managing to gain profit on both players at the time of their sales.

Purchased for £20.5m and sold to Brentford for £23m, the defender had fallen out of favour with Lopetegui during his short time in the Midlands, however, Nunes’ departure was far more of a shock.

How much did Wolves sign Matheus Nunes for?

Signed for a club-record fee of £42.2m in August 2022, the midfielder’s arrival at the club was highly anticipated, with him showcasing his talents in his home country at Sporting CP.

The Old Gold have a strong track record of hiring from Portugal thanks to the work of Nuno Espirito Santo and Jorge Mendes, however, not all new signings are instant hits. Nunes is perhaps a glowing example of that.

What was the reaction when Matheus Nunes signed for Wolves?

In signing Nunes, Wolves were getting a 23-year-old with the world at his feet, a player dubbed “one of the best players in the world” the season prior by Pep Guardiola.

City had defeated Sporting 5-0 in the Champions League, with the playmaker still earning a right to applause as he shone for his dejected side.

For his boyhood club, the youngster was equipped in central midfield, utilised both offensively and defensively, with attributes that charmed those around him and caused problems for the opposition.

U23 scout Antonio Mango hailed the midfielder as a “top quality” player before his move to Wolves, supported by his numbers in the 2021/22 campaign in which he shone in Liga Portugal.

As per FBref, the lively gem shone in the middle of the park for Sporting through his ball-carrying strengths, averaging 3.42 progressive carries and 2.85 successful take-ons per 90 that season.

With Joao Moutinho entering the later years of his thirties at the time, it was the logical move for Wolves to hire a refreshed source of class in midfield, which was achieved in principle by capturing Nunes.

The 23-year-old arrived as the Old Gold’s record signing, carrying the weight of being lauded as “one of the best players in Portugal” by journalist Pedro Sepulveda following his unveiling as a Premier League player.

Was Nunes really worth over £42m?

Nunes arrived in what was a difficult season for Wolves, with the club starting the campaign poorly under Bruno Lage, who was sacked as a result.

Steve Davis then took the reins temporarily before Lopetegui arrived, causing disruption in the squad and a particularly difficult atmosphere to adapt to.

All in all, the £42.2m signing lacked the ability to showcase his true value during his short time at Molineux, showing glimpses of what he could do, but nothing near enough to warrant his hefty price tag.

In a total of 41 appearances in gold, Nunes scored one goal and registered one assist in all competitions, communicating his lacklustre start to life in England.

While the one goal he did register was nominated for the goal of the season, the midfielder failed to impose himself to the level that he did at Sporting, as highlighted by the drop in his averages compared to the 2021/22 season.

As per FBref, in the Premier League the Portugal international averaged 2.15 progressive carries and 1.61 successful take-ons per 90, displaying lesser averages than those on show in Liga Portugal.

Despite not fulfilling his full potential and expectations, after a year with the club, Nunes was on the move again, with market activity that was predicted by Sepulveda along with his praise.

Where is Matheus Nunes now?

Portuguese journalist Sepulveda told Sky Sports that the now 24-year-old would be talked about in the “next transfer window” following his arrival, with him envisioning that the midfielder would move on if he hit the ground running in England.

Although he didn’t blow fans away to the level that was expected, Nunes was snatched up by Manchester City on deadline day, after a period of uncertainty over his future.

Sepulveda anticipated a “huge transfer” at the point of the Portuguese star's arrival, which came in the form of a £53m move to the treble winners.

Nunes’ exit was far from pretty, as he retaliated to O’Neil’s initially rejected bid for him from City by refusing to train or play, subsequently forcing the player to be sold.

The Old Gold eventually agreed a deal for his services in the final hours of the transfer window, gaining a profit from the price they paid for him and giving the 24-year-old the outcome he’d pushed for.

Perhaps if the midfielder had performed at a higher level at Molineux, his sale wouldn't have been negotiated, however considering his single goal and his average Sofascore match rating of 6.77, the deal was sanctionable.

From high levels of excitement to hitting reality in what was a complicated season for Wolves, the club made a profit of over £10m on the 24-year-old, with his career in the Midlands amounting to a single goal.

Like any young player signed for a high price and waxed lyrical about, the first impressions were promising for Wolves, however, the side will now adapt to life without the 24-year-old after a year of simply sufficient performances.

Manchester City could be set to lose another first-team star, with a new report claiming that he’s being targeted by the same club who are also looking to sign Bernardo Silva.

What's the latest transfer news at Man City?

Over the summer, Pep Guardiola signed four fresh faces in the form of RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol, Wolves’ Matheus Nunes, Rennes' Jeremy Doku and Chelsea’s Mateo Kovacic, strengthening his defensive, midfield and attacking ranks, but there were also a big number of outgoings.

Riyad Mahrez, Aymeric Laporte, Ilkay Gundogan and Cole Palmer were the four big players to leave the club on a permanent basis, whilst the hierarchy also sanctioned loan moves for the likes of Joao Cancelo and Taylor Harwood-Bellis, as per Transfermarkt.

At the Etihad Stadium, Silva has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona despite recently signing a contract extension, and another integral member of the squad that the Camp Nou outfit have now brought onto their future transfer radar is apparently Erling Haaland.

The Norway international has undoubtedly been the boss’ standout performer since putting pen to paper from Borussia Dortmund last summer, and therefore, the striker has emerged as a target and could be following in his teammate’s footsteps by swapping the Premier League for La Liga if the latest update is to be believed.

Is Erling Haaland leaving Man City?

According to 90min, Barcelona are “manoeuvring themselves to be a contender” in the race for Haaland.

Real Madrid have always appeared the most likely to secure his services should he leave the Etihad, but Xavi’s side are now “preparing to make their own move” for the talisman who they view as a “viable option” to succeed the 35-year-old Robert Lewandowski.

Guardiola’s star has a €200m (£172m) release clause included in his contract, and whilst this can only be activated from 2025 onwards, that hasn’t stopped his admirers from plotting a future swoop.

The M11 outfit are working to get a new long-term deal in place, but as it stands, there is “little motivation” from the player’s side to remove the current clause in his terms, hinting that his camp would be open to an exit in the coming years.

How many goals has Erling Haaland scored?

Following his arrival at Man City, Haaland has clocked up an unbelievable 68 contributions (58 goals and ten assists) in just 59 appearances, with this extremely prolific form having seen him dubbed a “monster” in the final third by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Sponsored by Nike, the left-footed machine has also recorded a total of 18 shots so far over the course of the current campaign which is more than any of his fellow teammates, via FBRef, with his positive impact having made a huge difference when it comes to securing silverware.

The Rafaela Pimenta client, who has the versatility to operate everywhere across the frontline if needed, has helped the club to secure four group trophies since joining in July 2022, and there’s no doubt that should he stay, that number is only set to increase in the seasons to come.

كشفت تقارير صحفية إسبانية عن مستجدات بشأن مستقبل لاعب الفريق الأول لكرة القدم بنادي برشلونة، سيرجي روبيرتو، في الفترة المقبلة.

وارتبط سيرجي روبيرتو بتمديد تعاقده مع برشلونة في الأيام القليلة الماضية، أثناء تواجد المدرب السابق تشافي هيرنانديز.

وأعلن نادي برشلونة ، تعيين الألماني هانز فليك مديرًا فنيًا لفريق كرة القدم الأول، خلفًا لـ تشافي هيرنانديز، بعقد يمتد حتى يونيو 2026.

اقرأ ايضاً.. مهمة خاصة لثلاثي برشلونة مع فليك.. وتير شتيجن يحسم موقفه من عرض اتحاد جدة

وأفادت صحيفة “سبورت” الكتالونية أنه على الرغم من تعيين هانز فليك مدرباً لفريق برشلونة، سيقوم النادي بتمديد عقد سيرجي روبيرتو في الفترة القادمة.

وتابعت الصحيفة الكتالونية أن خوان لابورتا رئيس النادي والمدير الرياضي ديكو لديهما تمسك كبير في الإبقاء على روبيرتو نظراً لدوره القيادي في صفوف برشلونة.

حيث أكدت التقارير الإخبارية أن دور روبيرتو القيادي بالإضافة إلى راتبه المنخفض، يعد سبباً رئيسياً في تمديد عقد اللاعب.

وشارك روبيرتو هذا العام في 24 مباراة مع برشلونة هذا الموسم، حيث أحرز 3 أهداف وقام بصناعة 3 أهداف أيضاً طوال الموسم بجميع المسابقات.

Following the reportedly imminent arrival of Wataru Endo, Liverpool could yet welcome another midfielder to complete their rebuild in the middle of the park this summer.

The Reds have already missed out on Moises Caicedo, and potentially Romeo Lavia, continuing their search for a defensive midfielder, which has now taken them to Serie A.

Who are Liverpool signing?

Despite Manchester United reportedly being in pole position to land Sofyan Amrabat this summer, Liverpool have now made contact with Fiorentina over the conditions of a potential deal, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The news follows United's hesitancy to get their deal done for the midfielder, who have been linked with making a move for the Fiorentina man in the current window.

As per Romano, the Morocco international is still at the top of United's targets, with Fred's sale, alongside the potential departure of Donny van de Beek, helping to accelerate the deal.

Read the latest Liverpool transfer news HERE…

The Manchester club's lack of urgency has seemingly opened the door for Liverpool, however, as Jurgen Klopp looks to swoop in and solve his midfield problems with Amrabat, who reportedly earns £30k per-week in Italy.

The Reds are already closing in on signing Wataru Endo, with a medical reportedly booked for Thursday, and could yet welcome one more in the middle of the park before the transfer window slams shut.

Should Liverpool sign Sofyan Amrabat?

Given the fact that Liverpool have been left without a defensive midfielder in their prime, they should be targeting Amrabat, even with United in pole position all summer long.

Welcoming the 26-year-old alongside Endo, who has plenty of experience at 30 years of age, could help balance things out in Klopp's strongest line-up.

Amrabat has received plenty of praise in the past, too, only backing his ability, with broadcaster Carlo Garganese saying during the 2022 World Cup that he's a "monster", while an opposing manager at the tournament, Spain's Luis Enrique, called the midfielder "extraordinary".

It was a tournament of high praise for the midfielder, as Morocco shocked the world to reach the semi-final stage, with even Alan Shearer having nothing but positives to say. He said, via the Liverpool Echo: "He’s been absolutely magnificent.

"I said it at the top of the show, they’re really difficult to beat and very good without the ball, and one of the reasons for that is this guy. He gives them so much protection, you can see how many tackles he’s made and he’s a huge part of their success up to now."

Statistically speaking, the Reds would also have themselves quite the upgrade on both Fabinho and Jordan Henderson in certain departments. According to FBref, the Fiorentina man makes more progressive carries, has a better take-on success and a better pass completion, with 7.93 of those being progressive per 90.

Everything points to a target that Liverpool should be looking to sign amid their midfield crisis this summer. The added bonus would be stealing in and taking Manchester United's target right from under their noses, too, all whilst solving a major issue in Klopp's squad.

As the summer transfer window continues, Amrabat is certainly one to keep an eye on, as Manchester United and Liverpool potentially do battle off the pitch.

Burnley and Manchester City are set to go head-to-head during the opening round of Premier League fixtures, with plenty to keep an eye out for during this clash.

For starters, it's a return to his former club for City legend Vincent Kompany – only this time, he'll be in claret rather than sky blue. Having led the side to their first Premier League title back in 2012, he has already etched his name into the folklore of the Etihad Stadium outfit.

Having also led Burnley to promotion from the dugout, he will no doubt receive a hero's welcome from all sides of Turf Moor when he turns up on the opening day – but that doesn't mean his former side will go easy on him.

It'll also be interesting to see how Pep Guardiola's team cope with the weight of expectation now. They won almost everything they could lay their hands on in 2022/23, topping off the league title and FA Cup glory with a Champions League win over Inter.

They'll still be on top of the world, though having made improvements through the likes of Mateo Kovacic, they've also lost key men like Ilkay Gundogan. Can their return to Premier League action see them pick up where they left off, or will they struggle to hit the same heights?

It certainly won't be straightforward. Having picked up a tip or two from his old boss, Kompany has Burnley playing football which is in complete contrast to the way Sean Dyche had them set up.

The Clarets entertained and stormed their way out of the Championship last term, and you wouldn't be surprised to see them stay up and continue that fine form this time around.

This will be a real test of their mettle, but can they match up to a side that is undoubtedly the best in the division, or will it be a crash back to reality for the opening-day hosts?

Burnley vs Man City: Who has the better head-to-head record?

When it comes to their overall records, it's no surprise that Man City are currently coming out on top in this section. Burnley have more than held their own with 30 wins, but the recent dominance of Guardiola's side has led to them picking up a number of wins over the Clarets over the last few years.

However, Kompany will be hoping that he can add to his side's win section this season.

• Burnley wins: 30
• Draws: 25
• Man City wins: 55

Burnley vs Man City: Who has more wins at Turf Moor?

When you consider how Burnley fare at home, they actually remain solid at Turf Moor when coming up against the current treble-winners. They're leading this statistic by one win – meaning that if City come up victorious on the opening day of the season, they'll tie tie things up in terms of Turf Moor meetings.

It's impressive to see that the Clarets have been able to do so well against City at home, though – and that may leave some supporters feeling that they can pull off an upset on their return to the Premier League.

• Burnley wins: 22
• Draws: 12
• Man City wins: 21

Burnley vs Man City: Who has more wins at Maine Road/Etihad Stadium?

Unsurprisingly, it's City who take this one. Whilst Burnley have done well to build something of a fortress on home territory against the Citizens, when they face them on their travels, it makes for much poorer reading.

The champions have an outstanding record against the Clarets on their own ground, with their opposition managing only eight wins over the years when they've had to play as the away team.

• Burnley wins: 8
• Draws: 13
• Man City wins: 34

Burnley vs Man City: Who has the better cup record?

In the cup games, City also have the upper hand. There is always talk about the magic of the cup, meaning that any result is possible – and in a one-off game such as this, that certainly remains the case.

However, the Etihad Stadium outfit have largely been victorious when coming up against the Clarets in these contests – including their recent 6-0 pummelling in the FA Cup only a few months ago, which will still be fresh in the memory for Burnley fans.

• Burnley wins: 2
• Man City wins: 8

Burnley vs Man City: What were the last five meetings?

18th March 2023 – Man City 6-0 Burnley (FA Cup): With Burnley flying high at the top of the Championship and playing some attractive football under Kompany, they likely would have gone into this one feeling they were capable of pulling off a shock result.

It was a match that saw the complete opposite take place. Instead, City dismantled the Clarets, with Erling Haaland bagging himself a hat-trick in the process. Julian Alvarez also got in on the act, hitting a brace to ensure a miserable night for Burnley in the cup.

2nd April 2022 – Burnley 0-2 Man City (Premier League): With the Clarets struggling at the wrong end of the table by this point, City compounded their misery by sealing a comfortable victory over their foes.

Kevin De Bruyne ensured it was the worst possible start for the home side by rifling one into the back of the net within the first five minutes, and having kept Guardiola's team at bay for a further 20, the points were then wrapped up by Ilkay Gundogan.

16th October 2021 – Man City 2-0 Burnley (Premier League): Once more, the Etihad Stadium outfit took an early lead through a Bernardo Silva strike, and despite holding their opponents for the majority of the game, it was that man De Bruyne again who bagged a second 20 minutes before the end.

3rd February 2021 – Burnley 0-2 Man City (Premier League): As it turns out, City quite like a two-goal victory over the Clarets – as well as a customary early goal.

Gabriel Jesus was quick to give his side the advantage, this time within just three minutes, to instantly put Burnley on the back foot. It was two before half-time, with Raheem Sterling, now of Chelsea, firing in a second before the break. It was then down to the away side to see out the game and pick up the win.

28 November 2020 – Man City 5-0 Burnley (Premier League): A game played behind closed doors – probably a good thing to save Burnley fans from having to watch in-person – saw the Clarets blanked again as they shipped five to City.

It was a day to remember for Riyad Mahrez, who bagged himself a hat-trick, with yet another early goal in the opening 10 minutes setting the tone.

Who has played for Burnley and Man City?

Joey Barton (Man City 2002-2007; Burnley 2015-2016, 2017): The midfielder is one of the most notable names to have featured for both clubs. He began his career with City as a teenager and was a regular in their starting XI for years in the Premier League, before they became one of the biggest sides in the division.

Barton actually produced some of his best goal contribution tallies in sky blue, bagging ten in the top tier in each of his last two seasons. It was the back end of his career that he spent with the Clarets, helping them climb out of the Championship and then marshalling their midfield upon their return to the top flight before leaving for Scotland.

Stephen Jordan (Man City 2002-2007; Burnley 2007-2010): Jordan played for City alongside Barton and also made the switch to Turf Moor from the club, albeit a lot sooner.

He was a squad player for the early part of the 2000s, managing 53 Premier League games for them and spending longer with them than anyone else in his career.

After impressing for the side, he was then snapped up by Burnley in 2007. He was a part of the side that secured a play-off victory in the Championship and stayed on with the Clarets as they were duly relegated back down to the second tier in 2009/10. As Burnley dropped down, Jordan departed for Sheffield United.

What is Burnley's biggest victory over Man City?

13 January 1962 – Burnley 6-3 Man City (Division One): For the Clarets' biggest-ever victory in this fixture, you have to go back 61 years, when they fired six past City, with the margin of glory as much as three goals. It was a Division One fixture – before the introduction of the Premier League – and saw the Clarets claim the spoils.

Burnley ended that season in second place, with Manchester City finishing in mid-table and Chelsea being relegated. How times have changed…

What is Man City's biggest victory over Burnley?

7 December 1968 – Man City 7-0 Burnley: Whilst City's latest FA Cup effort was a huge win, it doesn't quite make the cut as their biggest-ever win in this fixture.

That honour instead falls to a game that is only slightly more recent than Burnley's win and saw the side hit seven past their opponents without response. Held at Maine Road, it was a day to forget for the visitors.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are in ongoing "negotiations" regarding a summer deal to bring Real Betis midfielder Guido Rodriguez to the Premier League, according to journalist Cesar Luis Merlo.

Who is Guido Rodriguez?

Rodriguez is naturally a defensive midfielder who has played his football at the Benito Villamarin Stadium for the past three years since joining from CF America back in January 2020, and during that time, he’s become a regular feature of Manuel Pellegrini’s side having started 33 out of 38 La Liga matches last season.

However, the 29-year-old’s contract is set to expire in less than a year meaning that there’s a strong chance he could be sold for a decent fee before the end of the current transfer window, and should he depart, he won’t be short of potential suitors waiting to snap him up.

The Argentina international firmly established himself as the Spanish outfit’s both defensive and overall top-performing player with a WhoScored match rating of 6.98 during the previous campaign, and it appears that his high standard of displays have caught the eye of Fosun and Julen Lopetegui at Molineux.

Are Wolves signing Guido Rodriguez?

Taking to Twitter, Merlo revealed that Wolves are currently in talks for Rodriguez, though at this stage, it doesn't sound as if a deal is anywhere close to completion between the two parties. He wrote:

"Wolves is interested in signing Guido Rodriguez, a Betis midfielder whose contract ends in June 2024. There are negotiations underway between the clubs, but for now nothing close to being finalised."

Wolves recently lost their talisman in Ruben Neves, who has completed a move to Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Hilal, so Lopetegui will need to enter the market for a suitable replacement in that defensive midfield position, and having been lauded a “creative” number six by journalist Josh Bunting, Rodriguez could be the perfect heir.

Last season he ranked in the 99th percentile for tackles and the 98th percentile for clearances versus other players in his position, form which saw him receive three man-of-the-match awards, highlighting his desire to get stuck in and clear the danger to protect his backline.

Real Betis’ £28k-per-week earner, however, is also capable of contributing to efforts in the final third having scored seven goals and provided three assists since joining, so the fact that he’s impactful at both ends of the pitch will be yet another attractive attribute to those at Molineux.

Furthermore, the Betis star has the flexibility to operate in four different positions across the pitch, including three roles in the midfield and even at centre-back, so he would be an excellent versatile option for the manager to have at his disposal.

Finally, Rodriguez already knows what it takes to compete and be successful at the highest level having secured eight pieces of silverware since the start of his career, the most notable being when he was crowned 2022 World Cup champion with Argentina, so he could instil a much-needed winning mentality into the rest of the squad in the Midlands.

Manchester United are still interested in signing Sofyan Amrabat from Fiorentina this summer but reports of an official bid have been dismissed by Fabrizio Romano.

Is Amrabat joining United?

While not the most glamorous signing of the summer, a deal for Fiorentina's Amrabat would certainly be an excellent piece of business for any side willing to make a move for the defensive midfielder.

Having excelled at the 2022 World Cup with Morocco, helping his nation become the first African team to ever make a semi-final of the competition, Amrabat continued his fine form heading into the second half of a hectic campaign.

Fiorentina reached both the Coppa Italia and Europa Conference League final, losing both 2-1 as their first piece of silverware since the 1996/97 season narrowly evaded them.

Amrabat was crucial to La Viola's success and looks set to finally move onto bigger and better things this summer with a host of Europe's top clubs circling the 26-year-old.

The midfield enforcer has been long linked with Erik ten Hag's Man United and journalist Romano believes that the Red Devils retain a strong interest in him, albeit dismissing any rumours suggesting an official bid has been placed.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano stated: "Also important guys to mention about midfielders – Sofyan Amrabat. Many of you asking me about reports of a bid from Man United. Guys, from what I'm hearing, Man United have not made an official bid for Sofyan Amrabat yet.

"Because as I told you days ago, I told you here on my platforms, Sofyan Amrabat is on the list at Manchester United. They like him, they want to negotiate for Sofyan Amrabat, but they know that Fiorentina want something around €40-35m [£34-30m].

"So, at the moment the priority at Man United is the new striker and then, after the Hojlund deal, they will focus on potentially new midfielder and new centre-back."

He added: "Outgoings are crucial. Man United are convinced that Fred will leave the club and so this could be the first step, and then they can have conversations for Sofyan Amrabat."

Given United are unlikely to move for a midfielder until they have sorted their striker situation, a deal for Amrabat could be some way off.

Fred has been linked with a move to Fulham and such a move could pave the way for Amrabat to make the switch to Old Trafford. Scott McTominay has also been linked away which would free up even more space for the Moroccan in midfield.

Who are Man United signing?

Now that deals for Mason Mount, Andre Onana and somewhat surprisingly Jonny Evans have been finalised, United are eager, as mentioned by Romano, to add Rasmus Hojlund to their ranks.

The 20-year-old Atalanta forward appears to be the Red Devils' priority but a potential fee of £86m means a deal is not nearing completion at present. Ten Hag is not willing to sanction such an expensive move for a relatively inexperienced player, with United hopeful of reducing La Dea's asking price.

Randal Kolo Muani or Dusan Vlahovic could be alternatives, although both would likely command similarly high transfer fees. However, both strikers offer more top-flight experience to Ten Hag than Hojlund.

There are of course other midfielders on Ten Hag's wishlist, with a bold move for Joshua Kimmich having even been touted, while his Bayern Munich teammate Leon Goretzka is also reportedly being followed by the Red Devils in what would prove to be a similarly difficult transfer to pull off.

Scorecard and ball-by-ball details3:31

Fleming: Bangladesh had a very light bowling attack

An ankle and calf injury set aside, Joe Root put together a masterful unbeaten career-best 133 to power England to an eight-wicket win in their opening Champions Trophy match over Bangladesh, who would rue two major mistakes: not scoring enough in the last five overs and picking one less bowler.Two big partnerships supported England’s successful 306-run chase. Root’s 129-ball innings included 11 fours and a six, with Eoin Morgan by his side; the captain was not out on a 61-ball 75 that had eight fours and two sixes. The pair were responsible for the 143-run unbroken third-wicket stand after Alex Hales and Root added 159 for the second wicket.After Tamim Iqbal’s splendid 128 gave them a fair chance of an opening day win, Bangladesh missed out on a few more runs after Tamim and Mushfiqur Rahim fell off consecutive deliveries in the 45th over, having added 166 for the third wicket. They were timing the ball really well but those who followed could only add 44 in the last 5.2 overs.More importantly, Bangladesh went to work without an extra specialist bowler. The captain Mashrafe Mortaza had to rotate carefully between himself, Mustafizur Rahman, Shakib Al Hasan and Rubel Hossain, and also give enough overs to Mosaddek Hossain, who is at best a part-timer at this level. It didn’t work out too well for them.England’s chase began with a wobble as the out-of-touch Jason Roy scooped one towards short fine-leg where Mustafizur dived to take a stunning one-handed grab. But Mashrafe never quite looked comfortable rotating his bowlers as he had to always keep using a part-timer.And just like Tamim and co used the absence of Chris Woakes, so did Hales, Root and Morgan. First, it was the Hales-Root second wicket partnership that set England on the right course.Hales punished anything Bangladesh pitched short or too full, carving boundaries in his exclusive manner. He struck five boundaries in the arc between backward point and extra cover, apart from the straight sixes and the pushed fours through midwicket four times.Hales and Root, who hurt his ankle while trying to pull the ball in the 26th over, batted sensibly apart from the odd hack through the leg side. Hales, though, missed out on a century when he got greedy against part-timer Sabbir Rahman; a four and a six were hit, but then his slog sweep found the substitute Sunzamul Islam at deep midwicket.Root though, hardly missed a beat as he forged another quick partnership with Morgan for the third wicket. He struck three fours through the covers and twice through midwicket, and one slipped past the wicketkeeper.With Morgan picking up the pace of the innings, it was only a matter of time that Mashrafe tried to attack with his lop-sided bowling line-up. It was ultimately Mashrafe himself who created the chance in the 36th over but Tamim’s diving effort at long-on from Morgan’s lofted drive was given not out, first in a soft signal by on-field umpire S Ravi, and then followed up by the third umpire Bruce Oxenford.Root reached his 10th ODI hundred by running two in his hobbling state. He scampered whenever Morgan had pushed him, never complaining as he bashed around more boundaries in the last 10 overs.Bangladesh too banked on a big partnership: the Tamim-Mushfiqur third-wicket stand that yielded 166. The pair have often collaborated together when the chips are down but this time Mushfiqur walked in after Tamim had laid a solid foundation by the 20th over. Soumya Sarkar and Imrul Kayes had fallen just after getting set at the crease.Tamim batted resolutely in the face of Mark Wood’s bouncer barrage, but his approach factored in Woakes walking off with a left side strain after bowling just two overs. He laid into Liam Plunkett and teed off every time Moeen Ali floated one up to him. Tamim struck two superb straight drives, and the moment he got the hang of the shorter length, started pulling the ball quite well.Two of his three sixes were off Moeen, hit over the offspinner’s head while he also swung Wood over long-leg for the third six. Tamim was also delicate with deliveries angled to his body, working them fine either side of the wicketkeepers. He wasn’t fed too many full balls so there weren’t any cover driven boundaries in his innings.Mushfiqur’s 79 came off 72 balls, at a time when Tamim needed the batsman at the other end to push hard. He was severe on Jake Ball, hitting him for five of his eight boundaries. He was quick on his feet and until he over-hit Plunkett to long-on, Mushfiqur looked good for a century.In a game of small margins and with England playing without Adil Rashid, Plunkett’s last two overs that went for just seven runs, made a big difference as Bangladesh couldn’t find too many boundaries in the last five overs.That final push from Plunkett was complemented by the batsmen who chased down the 300-plus total with much ease. It would serve as a warning for the rest of the tournament, that England can and will keep stepping on the gas regardless of their situation.