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Kohli also revealed how Dravid helped bring perspective about “when the right time is”

Shashank Kishore15-Mar-2025The recent Australia tour left Virat Kohli experiencing “the most intense kind of disappointment” he had previously only felt in the summer of 2014, after he went through a wretched tour of England without a single half-century in 10 innings.Like he was all those years ago in England, Kohli was frustrated by his vulnerability outside the off stump during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. After starting the series with an unbeaten 100 in India’s win in Perth, eight of his other trips to the crease ended with his outside edge being snaffled up by the wicketkeeper or in the slips. In all, he managed just 190 runs in nine innings at 23.75.”If you ask me the intensity of how disappointed I’ve been, the most recent Australia tour would be the one that’s most fresh. So it might feel the most intense to me,” Kohli said at an event moderated by Isa Guha at the RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit in Bengaluru.Related

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“For a long time, the tour of England in 2014 bothered me the most. But I can’t look at it that way. I might not have an Australia tour again in four years. I don’t know. You have to make peace with whatever’s happened in your life. In 2014, I still had the chance to go in 2018 and do what I did. It might not have been the case. It might have been another blunder. But it didn’t turn out that way.”So, there’s no such guarantees in life. I think when you are at a stage for a long period of time, when you perform, people get used to your performances. They start feeling for you more than you feel sometimes. This has to be corrected.”Kohli revealed he had moments in Australia where the lack of scores made him over-eager to correct things with every ticking innings. However, he understood the importance of soaking in the disappointment, before making a hasty decision.”Once you start taking on the energy and the disappointment from the outside, then you start burdening yourself way more,” Kohli said. “And then you start thinking about things, like ‘I’ve got two or three days left on this tour, I need to make an impact now.’ And you start getting more desperate. That’s something I’ve surely experienced in Australia as well.”Because I got a good score in the first Test. I thought, right, ‘let’s go.’ There’s going to be another big series for me. It doesn’t turn out that way. For me, it’s just about the acceptance of, ‘okay fine, this is what happened. I’m going to be honest with myself. Where do I want to go? What are my energy levels like?'”I’m not sitting here in 48 hours or 72 hours-time to make a decision like ‘let me go.’ Spend time with family. Just sit down. Let everything calm down. And see how I feel in a few days. And within five-six days I was excited to go to the gym. I was like, okay fine. It’s all good. I don’t need to tweet anything right now.”

“It pretty much comes down to just the pure joy and enjoyment and love for the game. And as long as that love is intact, I will continue to play the game.”Virat Kohli

In saying everything he did about overcoming disappointments and facing challenges, Kohli also stated the “joy, enjoyment and love for the game” was still intact. But a recent conversation with former India captain and coach Rahul Dravid helped bring perspective about “when the right time is.””Me playing the game is not for achievement,” he said. “It pretty much comes down to just the pure joy and enjoyment and love for the game. And as long as that love is intact, I will continue to play the game. I have to be honest about that with myself. Because the competitive streak doesn’t allow you to find the answer.”Recently, I had a very interesting conversation with Rahul Dravid when he was our coach. He said you always have to stay in touch with yourself. Figure out where you are placed in your life. And the answer is not that easy, because you might be going through a lean phase and you feel like ‘this is it.’ But it might not be.”But then when it was time, he said my competitive streak would not allow me to accept it. Maybe one more. Maybe six more months, whatever. So, I think it’s a fine balance. And you have to just pray and hope that you get clarity when it comes. At this point in my life, I feel pretty happy. I still love playing the game. Don’t get nervous, I’m not making any announcements, as of now, everything is fine.”

There was no murmur on Snicko, but third umpire Sharfuddoula saw a big deflection on normal replays and made up his mind

ESPNcricinfo staff30-Dec-2024

Yashasvi Jaiswal had to leave the field in contentious circumstances•Associated Press

India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed in unusual circumstances during the final session on day five of the Boxing Day Test at the MCG after an on-field not-out decision for caught-behind was overturned by the third umpire despite Real-time Snicko not confirming the edge.Jaiswal, batting on 84, attempted to hook a bouncer from Pat Cummins, the ball was caught by wicketkeeper Alex Carey, the Australians appealed, on-field umpire Joel Wilson said not-out, and Australia reviewed the decision.While Snicko showed a flat line as the ball passed the bat, regular replays showed a big deflection. Third umpire Sharfuddoula went by what he saw – the deflection – and overturned the decision in Australia’s favour. Jaiswal was seen chatting with the umpires before walking off. His dismissal meant India’s last hope of saving the Test was gone. They were left tottering at 140 for 7 in a chase of 340 and eventually went down by 184 runs.Related

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“I don’t know what to make of that because the technology didn’t show anything, but with the naked eye it seemed like he did touch something,” Rohit Sharma told the press after the game. “I don’t know how the umpires want to use the technology, but in all fairness, I think he did touch the ball…”It’s about the technology, which we know is not 100% – more often than not we are the ones falling on the wrong side of it… that’s where we are unfortunate.”Cummins, meanwhile, was clear that Jaiswal had hit the ball and knew he had hit the ball.”Think it was clear that he hit it, heard a noise, saw a deviation, so was absolutely certain that he hit it,” he said. “As soon as we referred, you saw him drop his head and basically acknowledge that he hit. On screen, you can see he hit it. Ultra Edge, don’t think anyone has complete confidence and didn’t really show much, but fortunately there was enough other evidence to show it was clearly out.”Like Rohit, who saw the deflection too, Simon Taufel was in agreement with the third umpire, saying the deflection was “conclusive evidence” and said Sharfuddoula was well within his rights to do what he felt was correct.”In my view, the decision was out,” Taufel said on . “The third umpire did make the correct decision in the end. With the technology protocols, we do have a hierarchy of redundancy and when the umpire sees a clear deflection off the bat there is no need to go any further and use any other form of technology to prove the case. The clear deflection is conclusive evidence.”In this particular case, what we have seen from the third umpire is they have used a secondary form of technology, which for whatever reason hasn’t shown the same conclusive evidence of audio to back up the clear deflection. In the end, the third umpire did the right thing and went back to the clear deflection and overturned the umpire field. So, in my view correct decision made.”Sunil Gavaskar, speaking on Star Sports, however, wasn’t happy with the evidence, or lack of it, on Snicko being ignored.”We have seen so many times that the ball swings late after going very close to the edge of the bat. We have seen it so many times, haven’t we, that the ball does not take the edge, but goes very close and swings later after hitting the seam,” he said. “From afar it seems that the ball has taken the edge. I am talking about a forward defence, not talking about this hook shot.3:00

The Jaiswal dismissal – Manjrekar’s verdict

“The optical illusion suggests there is an edge. It was this optical illusion here as well. If the technology evidence suggests it is not out, then you cannot give it out.”On the live broadcast on Star Sports, Mark Nicholas and Sanjay Manjrekar called it a “brave” call by the third umpire.”On Jaiswal’s dismissal, I think it’s very brave of the third umpire to over-ride Snicko,” Nicholas said. “I think that’s pretty rare too.”Manjrekar said, “These are not the best angles, there was one angle given which was front-on, and that’s where you see the deflection when you see it visually, then you see the Snicko that reconfirms everything. Any other umpire would have gone, well, if the Snicko was not showing it – and I love Snicko as a technology – I’m not going to give that out. That also would be accepted by us.””I don’t know if any other umpire, I mean my guess is that it runs off both bat and glove, that’s a total guess,” Nicholas added. “I think that’s the problem watching that replay. Or any other replays.”

GOAL US writers evaluate the state of the USMNT after a 2-0 loss to South Korea and subsequent 2-0 victory over Japan

So, there's improvement from you. The USMNT were battered 2-0 by South Korea on Saturday. Suddenly, their fixture against Japan seemed massive. Must-wins don't really "exist" in friendlies. But if they did, Tuesday night in Columbus is what it would look like.

And for the first time, Mauricio Pochettino coaxed what felt like a performance out of this USMNT. Sure, there were the caveats of the fact that Japan generally played a B team. But the U.S. won comprehensively, controlling the ball when they had it and the spaces when they didn't. A 2-0 win was the final scoreline, but few would have been surprised by four or five based on the caliber of performance. 

There were a few keys to this all.

The first was a switch in formation. Pochettino went to a back three, which offered much improved balance to his side. The second was a complete showing from Christian Pulisic, who played his best with a lovely assist and countless big moments. And perhaps the most important was the . The U.S. were on it from the first minute. Japan never really got into the game, something the hosts made sure of. 

What can we take from all of this? Are the improvements a stroke of fortune against a lesser opponent? A false dawn ahead of tougher games to come? Perhaps a bit of both. Either way, it's encouraging, which might be enough.

GOAL US writers break down the 2-0 win over Japan in the latest edition of… The Rondo. 

• Getty Images
  

  How encouraging was the win over Japan?

  Tom Hindle: Pretty encouraging, without being world-changing. The USMNT showed that they can play in a different system, dominate an opponent, and, crucially, look pretty steady defensively. Sure, Japan rested the majority of their top players, but this was a good display that will open up further tactical options in the future. 

  Ryan Tolmich: So, yes, there's an obvious caveat here with Japan rotating their squad, but this is less about scoreline and more about the eye test. Aesthetically, the U.S. played a much better game, one with clearly-defined roles and ideas that, ultimately, did produce a win. The key wasn't necessarily the result, but how they got there. It offered a glimpse into the way forward, and that was much better than what we saw against South Korea.

  Alex Labidou: Encouraging is the wrong word. Needed is the right one. Context is key, and yes, it's important to note Japan heavily rotated their squad. But considering the amount of backlash for Pochettino and his team, there are likely a few exhales by U.S. Soccer right now. As big as the win was, the way the USMNT secured it might be the most important factor. The team played a three-man backline and played with some gusto, as opposed to waiting for the first punch. More of this, please.

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• Getty Images
  

  Is Folarin Balogun the nailed-on No. 9 now?

  TH: He always should have been. When everyone is fully fit, the USMNT don't have a striker who comes close. He scored 20-plus goals in a big-five league in his early 20s, and has been held back by injuries since. But he's twice the player Josh Sargent is, and a fair bit ahead of Ricardo Pepi, too. 

  RT: In pencil, not pen. Balogun probably has the highest ceiling of any USMNT forward but, in a striker race, ceiling doesn't matter nearly as much as goals. With Pepi's return imminent, Balogun isn't the only contender in this race. But Balogun's showing was great news for the USMNT, who could head into the World Cup with multiple strikers they can trust after struggling with that very problem during the last cycle.

  AL: Nailed-on is probably a stretch, and Pepi might have a few things to say here. But Balogun showed the skillset that made him such a highly-coveted recruit a few years ago. He was clincial in his chance, but more impressive were the things he was doing off ball. Silky with his runs and pressing when needed, he’s likely the most complete striker in the pool – when he’s healthy. That’s still a big if, considering his track record.

• Getty Images
  

  Should Pochettino switch to a 3-4-2-1 full time?

  TH: It really depends on the opponent. The system doesn't necessarily get the best out of everyone – where the hell does Weston McKennie fit here? – but as a default, for a solid 90 minutes, it's certainly an option. And options are a good thing.

  RT: Absolutely, yes.The system is perfect for the pieces Pochettino has at his disposal. Given the lack of wing depth and the abundance of wingbacks, this system puts this team's most dangerous players in places where they can create the most danger, which is the whole point of a tactic, isn't it? Sure, more experimentation is needed and, of course, things can change by the summer. But right now, this makes too much sense.

  AL: Roll with what works. No more need for tinkering – until it doesn’t work.

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• Getty Images
  

  Which World Cup outsiders made their case?

  TH: Ehhhh. Did anyone prove that they should be there full time? Tough to say. When it comes down to it, Pochettino will probably go with talent over a couple of decent showings in friendlies. But Max Arfsten and Alejandro Zendejas might have played their way into the team, which is never a bad thing. 

  RT: The two wingbacks, Alex Freeman and Arfsten, should now feel pretty good about solidifying backup roles. If the U.S. does stick with this system, both seem capable of contributing not just on the road to the World Cup, but at the tournament itself, should one of the starters be unable to play. While starting spots seem pretty far out of reach, both  can certainly play their way onto the plane, particularly if the U.S. continues with these tactics.

  AL: Zendejas was participating in just his second USMNT camp under Pochettino. For a team that doesn’t have much depth in width, it is inexcusable that the Club America winger hasn’t been more involved.

MatériaMais Notícias

Após a vitória sobre o Puerto Cabello, por 2 a 0, na terça-feira (18), pela Copa Sul-Americana, alguns dos jogadores estrangeiros do São Paulo procuraram dedicar o resultado ao técnico Rogério Ceni, que entrou no duelo ameaçado de demissão por conta dos placares adversos registrados pelo clube nos últimos jogos.

Autor do segundo gol tricolor na partida, o primeiro com a camisa do clube do Morumbi, o uruguaio Michel Araujo destacou como fundamental a participação de Ceni em sua chegada.

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+ ATUAÇÕES: Em noite ruim, Marcos Paulo salva, e Calleri mostra que faz diferença em vitória do São Paulo

Vindo de empréstimo do Fluminense, o jogador vem se destacando pela versatilidade e integrou os 11 iniciais desde que foi apresentado.

– Foi um momento inexplicável, fazer um gol no Morumbi, uma emoção muito grande. Consegui responder ao treinador, ele botou muita confiança em mim, vinha de um momento difícil. Esse jogo que faço é por causa desse cara, trabalhador, sincero. Estamos aqui para fazer o melhor para o São Paulo. A vitória só saiu no final, mas está valendo.

Outro que tratou de elogiar Ceni foi Calleri. O argentino, sempre coerente em suas entrevistas, fez questão de enfatizar a importância do treinador.

– Rogério merece essa vitória. Está se falando muita coisa, só quero dedicar a ele, é um cara que ganhou tudo pelo clube, um ídolo, e muito trabalhador. Ele precisava dessa vitória, nós também. Vamos felizes para a casa, mesmo não tendo feito um bom jogo.

+ Confira os jogos, classificação e simule resultados da Sul-Americana-23 na tabela do LANCE!

West Ham United really struggled to get going last season in the Premier League, even after Graham Potter took on the reins.

The Hammers did manage to bow out of their unmemorable 2024/25 campaign in the top flight with back-to-back away victories at Manchester United and Ipswich Town. Still, the ex-Chelsea manager will have his work cut out for him to turn his fortunes around, with those two away-day wins making up a large chunk of his meagre five wins as Irons boss.

He will hope he’s given adequate time to leave his mark on the Hammers set-up, having only lasted a rash 31 games in the Stamford Bridge hot seat, with the likes of Kyle Walker-Peters already entering the building this summer, marking the start of West Ham’s makeover.

Up next, the Hammers could welcome in some attacking additions, with one target already in mind who might well be the top-flight club’s second coming of Jarrod Bowen.

West Ham prepare offer for £6m sensation

Of course, the Hammers are likely to be on the hunt now for an immediate Mohammed Kudus replacement, after the one-time fan favourite in East London defected over to enemy lines to join Tottenham Hotspur for £55m.

James McAtee might well be the replacement for Kudus that West Ham have up their sleeve, alongside Potter and Co. also reportedly showing interest in the services of Shakhtar Donetsk ace Georgiy Sudakov as their net widens out to Ukraine.

A new, up-and-coming centre-forward might also be on their agenda – even after Potter’s recent comments played down the importance of bringing in fresh talent up top – with West Ham-oriented website Claret and Hugh relaying information that the Hammers are reportedly considering an offer for breakout Wycombe Wanderers star Richard Kone.

Already this summer, Kone has been subject to a £6m bid from Luton Town, on top of interest coming from Brentford, Celtic, and Crystal Palace, but it’s West Ham who now allegedly lead the charge for the former non-league attacker.

Hull City

131

54

14

Hereford Town

8

1

1

Bowen also once found himself in the non-league scene with Hereford Town, before going on to solidify himself as a Premier League-worthy talent in the EFL with Hull City, as Kone now braces himself for that next gigantic step in his own career after a whirlwind campaign with the Chairboys.

Why Kone can be West Ham's next Bowen

Nobody at the London Stadium would have anticipated how vital Bowen would eventually become to the West Ham cause when he first joined the camp for £22m back in 2020.

There was a lot of excitement in the air that he would be a success story, though, having fired home a clinical 54 strikes for the Tigers in the demanding Championship, but even Bowen wouldn’t have anticipated that after 238 clashes in East London, he would be captaining the side after amassing an astounding 125 goals and assists in total for his Premier League employers.

Bowen has even become a regular on the international stage for England, with Kone surely harbouring his own dreams of representing the Ivory Coast if a move to West Ham comes to fruition, off the back of a potent season leading the line for Wycombe.

Having still been on the books of non-league outfit Athletic Newham last year, it’s a remarkable rise Kone has undergone in such a short space of time, with Bowen acclimatising to the EFL equally well when jumping ship from Hereford to Hull.

Games played

41

Goals scored

18

Assists

3

Goal conversion %

18%

Touches*

34.0

Accurate passes*

11.1 (65%)

Total duels won*

5.9

As can be seen looking at the table above, the Ivorian excels when being utilised as a poacher, with his venomous 18 league strikes coming about from just 34 touches of the ball on average per League One affair.

Bowen might well be whipping in many a cross in for Kone to latch onto, therefore, with the 22-year-old’s prowess in the air – which saw him win an impressive 5.9 duels on average in League One – also making him a suitable fit for the Premier League’s intense nature.

Labelled as a striker who “has got everything” by Wycombe great Joe Jacobson, it wouldn’t be the wildest shout to expect Kone to grow even more confident if East London came calling, mirroring Bowen’s sharp ascent in the process.

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Ben Stokes has called for more player input over the international schedule, ahead of an overloaded 12-month period for England’s red- and white-ball sides.Speaking ahead of the third and final Test against West Indies, England’s Test captain reiterated his long-held criticisms of a congested fixture list, further complicated by the rise of franchise cricket. Having previously worried about its effect on the quality of cricket, Stokes is wary of the negative impact it could have on the development of England teams as a whole.While Stokes’ focus is on building towards the Ashes in the winter of 2025-26, the limited-overs set-up is looking towards a new dawn, with a decision to be made imminently on the futures of head coach Matthew Mott and captain Jos Buttler. Such are the commitments ahead for both squads, it is highly unlikely that each will progress at a similar rate.Related

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After the conclusion of this series in Edgbaston, the Test team will reconvene for a three-match series against Sri Lanka which begins at Emirates Old Trafford on August 21. The day after the third Test is due to finish in September, England begin a T20I series against Australia.That is followed by an ODI series against the same opponents that finishes just eight days before the start of a three-Test series in Pakistan. Three days after that tour concludes, England begin an ODI series in Antigua, which ends in St Lucia eight days prior to the first Test against New Zealand in Christchurch.The start of 2025 offers some respite with no overseas Tests in the first half of the year, but England will play five white-ball matches in India as preparation for the Champions Trophy in February. The home season then plays host to four visiting teams, with an ODI series in Ireland running parallel to the India Test series.England are blessed with a playing pool that can be adequately split for the obligations that await. But the pull on their multi-format players such as Harry Brook, Mark Wood and even Jofra Archer, who is mooted to return to the Test side in 2025, will become a problem, particularly as they continue to seek opportunities on the T20 franchise circuit.Stokes believes his role as Test captain allows him to have a firm hand on the tiller when it comes to what is best for his team. But he acknowledged problems on the horizon and urged boards such as the ICC, who produce the Future Tours Programme (FTP), and the ECB, who rubber-stamp it, to collaborate more with players at an uncertain time for the game’s ecosystem.ESPNcricinfo Ltd

“I hope not,” answered Stokes when asked if his ambitions with the Test team will be hampered by the schedule. “It is something that does need to be addressed.”Who knows what international cricket is going to look like, with all the franchise stuff that is going on as well? It does need to get looked at. The landscape is constantly changing. I don’t think anyone can put their hand on their heart and say they know what cricket is going to look like in even two years’ time.”I think some consultation might be quite nice, obviously to Jos (Buttler) and myself. The FTP could maybe see the people playing in it consulted, and I think we could have some good input in that.”Asked whether he had been consulted on the recent FTP running from 2023-27, Stokes was tight-lipped: “Yes and no. Make of that what you will.”He was similarly guarded when asked about his own white-ball career, unwilling to entertain the question on the eve of a Test match. Having reversed his ODI retirement to play in the 2023 World Cup, he subsequently opted out of the T20 World Cup last month to focus on his Test duties. He also refused to acknowledge reports in last week that he has signed a bumper £800,000 deal with MI Cape Town in the SA20, which clashes with the India white-ball series at the start of next year.

India turn their attention to the Super Eight stage of the tournament now where they will face Afghanistan on Thursday

ESPNcricinfo staff15-Jun-2024

No cricket, no cry – the Indians can still play football on the wet ground•ICC/Getty Images

Match abandoned The T20 World Cup 2024 game between India and Canada was called off due to wet outfield. There wasn’t a lot of rain on the day – a passing drizzle – but the ground at Lauderhill had taken enough water on Friday when USA and Ireland had to settle for a point each as well for it to still be unfit for play.There were two inspections by the umpires and the groundstaff worked hard for over three hours but nothing could be done to convince the officials that the outfield was safe enough.India turn their attention to the Super Eight stage of the tournament now where they will face Afghanistan on Thursday. Canada’s campaign, though, has come to an end, but it was a memorable one where they upset Ireland and can also look forward to an improved chance of making the 2026 T20 World Cup. Only one of the participating teams in the Americas regional qualifiers can go through to the World Cup. But now that USA are already through, Canada stand a stronger chance making it through the pathway.Lauderhill is meant to host one more match at this T20 World Cup – Ireland vs Pakistan on Sunday. Both teams have already been eliminated from the tournament. There is forecast for rain in the morning which may once again affect the cricket.

Ange Postecoglou enjoyed the most glorious vindication as he lifted the Europa League after leading his Tottenham Hotspur side to victory against Manchester United, making good on a promise that was scoffed at by detractors when made.

However, there’s no detracting from the fact that Spurs have flattered to deceive this season, 17th in the Premier League with one match left to play, having been battered by injuries and consequent struggles for any measure of fluency.

Things need to change next season, and Daniel Levy will certainly be wrestling over the manager’s seat, with Postecoglou’s future uncertain in spite of his success in ending the club’s interminable trophy drought.

However, by doing so, the Aussie tactician has salvaged something special from this difficult year, placing Tottenham in next year’s Champions League group stage. By doing so, it’s opened the door for exciting signings to strengthen the squad.

Spurs favourites to seal statement signing

As per Spanish sources, Tottenham are the favourites to sign RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons this summer after unlocking the door to Europe’s elite stage.

Leipzig failed to qualify for Europe this term and have thus informed Simons he will be allowed to leave, though they will demand €80m (£68m) for his release.

Liverpool had been in the running for the Dutchman but have moved to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz instead, with the German side looking for a €150m (£126m) payment. However, the Lilywhites will feel that they can secure a signing every bit as impactful and for almost half the cost.

Why Spurs must sign Xavi Simons

Described as a “superstar” in the making by analyst Ben Mattinson, Simons left Paris Saint-Germain to make his name at Leipzig back in the summer of 2023, playing the coming campaign as a loanee before signing permanently in a €50m (£42m) deal.

Alternating between central attacking midfield and wider berths, he’s been an invariably prolific presence, posting 44 goal contributions from 76 matches in all competitions.

Described as a “game-changer” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Simons has the potency to make a stunning impression in Postecoglou’s Spurs squad, but he also has the strength and solidity to thrive in the wider lens of English football.

When looking at how he compares with Liverpool’s soon-to-be-signed superstar in the Bundesliga this year, you begin to see that Tottenham could bag themselves a winner here.

Matches (starts)

25 (25)

31 (25)

Goals

10

10

Assists

7

12

Shots (on target)*

2.0 (0.9)

2.3 (1.3)

Touches*

68.0

73.4

Pass completion

83%

82%

Big chances created

12

17

Key passes

2.0

1.8

Dribbles*

1.3

2.6

Ball recoveries*

5.1

3.6

Tackles + interceptions*

1.6

1.3

Duels won*

5.4

5.2

Honestly, there’s a case to be made that Simons has enjoyed the better Bundesliga campaign, marginally outperforming last year’s Player of the Season across many of the underlying metrics and proving he has what it takes to thrive in the Premier League, confident in the duel and precise with his passing.

This robust Netherlands star is exactly what Tottenham need, and though at £68m he’d prove their record signing, it would be money well spent for a team now with a unique opportunity to put the year’s issues in the past and turn toward a sustained period of success.

It would make quite the statement, retorting to Liverpool’s capture with their own version, one who could go punch-for-punch with the German in the Premier League.

Without question, Wirtz is one of the most exciting midfielders of his generation. Former Leverkusen striker Patrick Helmes has even said he’s “probably the best midfielder in the world.” However, his loyalties obviously lie with the Werkself.

If anything, Simons’ metrics simply highlight the calibre of player Postecoglou would be bringing into his ranks, ready to steer this Tottenham team toward an illustrious new era.

Spurs hit gold on "sensational" monster who's becoming their new Dembele

The impressive international could be a star for Spurs.

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Nottingham Forest are ready to make a sizeable offer to complete the signing of a new centre-back this summer, according to reports in the player’s homeland.

Nottingham Forest's Champions League hopes damaged

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side blew a wonderful opportunity to jump back to third in the Premier League on Thursday night, losing 2-0 at home to Brentford. Forest’s performance looked nervy throughout the evening, with the team and the supporters aware of the magnitude of the occasion, and they simply couldn’t produce the desired display and result.

The Reds’ defeat leaves them sitting sixth in the league table with four matches remaining, as they prepare to make the trip to Crystal Palace on Monday evening, which is another tough game against a side who have just reached the FA Cup final.

Granted, Forest are only behind fifth-place Chelsea on goal difference – a top-five spot will seal a place in next season’s Champions League – but Nuno’s men are clearly wobbling and are in need of a big result.

Nottingham Forest willing to make offer for Gatti

According to TuttoSport [via Sport Witness], Nottingham Forest are willing to make a big offer to sign Juventus centre-back Federico Gatti this summer. Everton and West Ham are also mentioned in the report, though it is stated that the 26-year-old is happy to stay put at Juve, despite it being financially beneficial to move on and earn more than his current £42,000 per week.

It looks as though Forest will need to present quite the package to both Juve and Gatti to tempt them into a move, and if the situation changes he could be a fantastic addition at the heart of the defence.

Nikola Milenkovic and Murillo have been outstanding throughout this season, forging a great understanding at the back, but increased competition for places is still essential in that area, especially if one of the centre-backs leaves this summer.

Gatti is now an experienced player who has made 103 appearances for one of the biggest clubs in Europe in Juve, and Danilo once described him as “humble”, saying: “Gatti is an example for all of us, a humble boy who works a lot. He has had difficult moments, but he is strong, and he showed Juventus until the end.”

Appearances

28

Starts

26

Minutes played

2188

Goals

1

Assists

0

Clearances per game

2.6

Aerial duel wins per game

1.3

Pass completion rate

95.2%

Gatti’s quality on the ball is highlighted by a 95.2% pass completion rate in Serie A this season, while his defensive expertise is oultined by an average of 2.6 clearances per game in the competition.

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For now, it looks like Forest will have to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements, but the hope is that Champions League qualification gives them a better chance of signing Gatti.

Turning their attention towards the summer transfer window and navigating any PSR concerns, Aston Villa have reportedly joined the race to sign a South American wonderkid.

Aston Villa facing PSR concerns

As successful as the Villans have been on the pitch, that success may well come at a price amid concerns over profit and sustainability. Those at Villa Park haven’t been afraid to spend big in recent seasons, but after making losses of more than £105m across the last three campaigns, they are in danger of breaching PSR rules, according to reports.

After Chelsea decided to sell their woman’s team to a sister company in an attempt to comply with the rules and find a loophole, Aston Villa seem to have taken note and are now looking at selling similar stakes. Whether criticised or not, it would be quite the way to avoid any punishment.

Amid such problems, meanwhile, Champions League qualification may prove to be more important than ever if Villa want to ease their concerns and avoid having to sanction frustrating sales.

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The Midlands club already sold Jhon Duran for big money during the January transfer window before welcoming Marco Asensio and Marcus Rashford on loan, but should look to avoid a repeat of such a departure this summer.

Whether that’s in their hands remains to be seen, however. What hasn’t helped ease their concerns is David Ornstein’s recent report that Morgan Rogers is among those attracting big admirers ahead of the summer transfer window. It’s a narrative that Aston Villa must put to bed as soon as possible before turning their focus towards signing one particular star.

Aston Villa set sights on South American talent Rayan

Whilst Aston Villa must spend wisely if they are to spend this summer, one young forward slots into the category of players they should be able to afford in the coming months and one they should do everything to avoid missing out on. According to The Boot Room, Aston Villa have now joined the race to sign Rayan from Vasco da Gama.

The 18-year-old winger has attracted plenty of attention from interested parties in the Premier League, with Villa joined in line for his signature by Liverpool, Nottingham Forest, Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Described as a “physical, bulldozing forward” by South American football expert Nathan Joyes, Rayan is still just 18 years old and a player who looks ready to complete his first move into European football.

Unai Emery rarely needs to convince players about his Aston Villa project these days, and Rayan should be no different. Like others before him, the forward would thrive under the Spaniard.