Soccer

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      What happened to eight stars who left Man Utd in summer including crocked legend and unemployed ‘Luke Shaw replacement’

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED allowed eight players to leave on free transfers at the end of last season.After winning the FA Cup against Manchester City, boss Erik ten Hag clung on to his job at Old Trafford.Manchester United won the FA Cup last termCredit: RexAs he began preparations for his third season in charge, the Dutchman set about reshaping his squad.In doing so, United did not renew the contracts of eight pro players.These included two first-team stalwarts, as well as some promising youngsters… and one England international many may not have even realised was there.Those to leave have experienced mixed fortunes since departing United.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSome have gone on to exciting new projects, one has retired, and others are still without a club.Without further ado, let’s take a look at where each player to leave on a free transfer ended up.RAPHAEL VARANEFrench defender Varane suffered an injury-hit third and final season at Old Trafford.He was limited to just 22 Premier League outings last term, but did help his side win the FA Cup in his final game for the club.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOn that occasion at Wembley, it was already known that he would be leaving.He went on to sign for Como in July, linking up with boss Cesc Fabregas – but he has so far played just 23 minutes of football for the Italian side due to further injury issues. Raphael Varane removed from Como’s Serie A squad as Man Utd flop’s transfer turns into nightmare after nasty injuryANTHONY MARTIALForward Martial’s nine-year Man Utd career came to an end in underwhelming fashion last season.The last of his 317 appearances for the club came last December, as an illness followed by groin surgery prematurely ended his campaign.Martial, 28, spent much of the summer looking for a new team.And he was given a hero’s reception when he finally signed for one, sealing a shock move to Greek side AEK Athens this week.Anthony Martial endured a low-key final season at UnitedCredit: GettyTOM HUDDLESTONE Former Tottenham and England midfielder Huddlestone joined Man Utd as a player-academy coach in 2022.During two seasons at United the midfielder provided invaluable guidance to the club’s youngsters, while now and then featuring alongside them.Following nine appearances for United’s Under-21s last season, the 37-year-old retired from football in July.He initially joined Wigan as a first team coach for the start of pre-season, but this week departed for a similar role at Birmingham after receiving what the Latics called “an offer he simply could not refuse”.Tom Huddlestone played for Man Utd’s Under-21s last seasonCredit: GettyCHARLIE MCNEILLAcademy graduate McNeill left United after four years with his boyhood club.The forward, 21, made one first team appearance for the Red Devils – coming in a Europa League clash early in Ten Hag’s first season at the club.Having been on loan spells with Newport and Stevenage during his Man Utd stint – McNeill signed permanently for Sheffield Wednesday upon leaving Old Trafford.He is yet to appear in the Championship for his new club, but has scored two goals in three League Cup outings to date.McNeill is congratulated by Owls team-mate Barry BannanCredit: GettyMARCUS LAWRENCELocal lad Lawrence left United having never come close to reaching their first team.The full-back, 19, was born in Stretford, a stone’s throw from Old Trafford.He featured periodically for the club’s Under-18s before departing.Lawrence is still looking for a new club.BRANDON WILLIAMSFull-back Williams had once been thought of as the club’s best left sided defender, even usurping England regular Luke Shaw in the eyes of former United executive Ed Woodward.He played 51 times for United’s first team, including 36 appearances during the 2019-20 campaign under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Having previously been on loan at Norwich, Williams spent the final year of his United contract on loan at Ipswich.He remains without a club, and is set to go on trial for dangerous driving next March, a charge he denies.Having been working on his fitness after not playing since last December, Williams is hoping to find a club by the end of January.Brandon Williams spent last season on loan at IpswichCredit: PAKIE PLUMLEYMan Utd somewhat surprisingly signed goalkeeper Kie Plumley last September, following his release by Oxford United.During his time at Old Trafford, Plumley played the role of No2 keeper for their Under-21 side – making one appearance in the PL2.Following his United release, Plumley signed for eighth-tier side Hartley Wintney.He has since debuted for his new team, helping them beat East Grinstead Town 2-1 in the FA Cup.Kie Plumley surprisingly joined Man Utd after being released by OxfordCredit: GettyOMARI FORSONDespite being offered a new deal to stay at United, winger Forson opted to leave on a free transfer at the end of last season.Forson, 20, had begun to break through under Ten Hag, appearing seven times for United’s first team last season.READ MORE SUN STORIESDespite this, he decided to move on – signing for Serie A side Monza.After beginning the season with a muscular issue he is yet to make an appearance for his new club, but he has been named as a substitute in their last three games.Omari Forson left United to sign for MonzaCredit: Rex More

    • 263 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Man City face being expelled from ALL competitions – not just the Premier League – if guilty of alleged rule breaches

      by

      MANCHETER CITY could be kicked out of all of England’s domestic competitions if they are found guilty of their alleged rule reaches.City are facing between 115 and 130 breaches brought to them by the Premier League in an unprecedented case.Manchester City could face expulsion from more than just the Premier League if they are found guilty of their alleged breachesCredit: GettyCity are facing potential points deductions and the possibility of relegation from the Premier League if they are found to have breached the rules.And it has now been revealed that City are at risk of being kicked out of the FA Cup and Carabao Cup too.While there is also no certainty that the four-in-a-row Premier League champions would be able to compete in the Champions League and Club World Cup either.However, SunSport understands that it is unlikely that that the Cityzens would be dumped from all competitions despite the rules allowing for it to happen.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIt’s been reported that a one-off points deduction is not seen as “sufficient punishment” for City if they are found guilty of their alleged breaches.Instead the Premier League’s bigwigs are said to be looking to secure a harsher sanction, such as expulsion from the the league itself.That punishment could mean that City are then thrown out of other domestic competitions with the laws of the cups allowing for their participation to be taken away from them.For example, clause 31 of the FA Cup rules states: “Where a club has been admitted to participate in the competition but is then removed from the league in which it competes (or its league fixtures are suspended), the Professional Game Board [PGB] may remove the club from the competition.”Most read in FootballMartin Lipton’s expert viewBy Martin LiptonMANCHESTER City’s fate lies in the hands of the independent commission hearing the financial allegations that have hung over the club for the past 18 months.But while it is theoretically possible that the Etihad club could be banned from any competitions if they are found guilty it is, simply, not going to happen.Yes, if the commission decides the Prem charges have been proven, any and all punishments are available.That would include expulsion from the League and relegation into the lower tiers.But nobody, seriously, in the real world, believes City will be banished from the top four levels of the pyramid and cast into the National League – the only way in which they would be ineligible to play in the Carabao Cup.And while the FA will ratify any punishment imposed by the Prem, the commission has NO remit that allows it to impose a sanction that applies to any other competition.As in so many potential scenarios, the word “may” can do an awful lot of heavy lifting.I, for example, at 57, “may” be a shock signing for Arsenal. It won’t happen. But, theoretically, it “may”. If I suddenly win a few billion and buy the club, for example. Which “may” happen. But won’t.What is more intriguing – and could cause a difficult series of conversations – is a scenario in which City, having been found guilty – a very big “if” given the club’s vehement and persistent denials of all the allegations – were to win the Champions League this season, after being given a points deduction that ensures relegation.Under Uefa regulations, the holders of the competition have an AUTOMATIC right to try to retain their trophy.But all representatives of a country can only play in European competition if their names are proposed by the national federation.In other words, while people often do not realise it, no club can play in Europe without FA endorsement – normally something that is guaranteed.It would therefore fall on the FA – after discussions with Uefa – to decide if City’s name should be put forward. Similar issues would arise if they won either this season’s Carabou or FA Cups.As for the looming Club World Cup, City are already confirmed as participating, by dint of their 2022 Champions League win.Fifa rules do not give holders automatic entry to competitions, so even if they win in the USA next summer, they would have to qualify through Uefa.And if they are relegated even to the Championship, meaning at least a two season Uefa absence, they would have to win the Champions League in 2028 to qualify.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat offers The FA chance to kick them from the competition too, should they want to.While the EFL Cup would require City to be competing in one of England’s top four divisions to be able to play in the competition.Thierry Henry and Micah Richards pinpoint Erling Haaland’s biggest flaw that ‘Harry Kane can do’ on CBS Sports coverageShould City’s punishment see them knocked down to the National League or further then, of course, they would no longer be able to compete in the Carabao Cup.As for the Champions League, Uefa require teams to hold a Uefa license to compete in their competitions.The Telegraph report that it is unclear whether City’s potential expulsion from the Prem could be grounds for withdrawal from the Champions League with Uefa, the FA and the Premier League all having roles in the administration of Uefa licenses.This summer’s new Fifa Club World Cup doesn’t have any obvious public rules available, casting further doubt on if Pep Guardiola’s side could compete in the competition following any guilty verdicts.Man City began their trial to combat their charges this Monday and have denied any wrongdoing throughout the process. More

    • 275 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘I can’t take it anymore’ says Man City title winner Jesus Navas as he admits chronic pain is forcing him to retire

      by

      MANCHESTER CITY title winner Jesus Navas has declared “I can’t take it anymore” after admitting that chronic pain is forcing him into retirement.The 38-year-old Spaniard spent four seasons at the Etihad between 2013 and 2017, scoring eight goals in 183 outings.Jesus Navas admits crippling pain is set to force him into retirementCredit: GettyThe Spain icon won a Premier League title during his time at Man CityCredit: GettyNavas made 48 appearances in all competitions as City scooped a Premier League and Carabao Cup double in his first season.And he remained an important squad player until his return to boyhood club Sevilla.After 393 games and two Europa League wins in his first spell, Navas went on to scoop two more continental cups in 301 games with the club.He is now on a “lifetime contract” that will eventually see him move into a backroom role.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut Navas admits that could come as soon as the start of 2025 after dealing with crippling pain.The World Cup and two-time Euro winner says he “can’t take it anymore” after spending the past six months suffering.And Navas concedes he may even call time on his playing career before December.The right-back said: “Hopefully I can make it until December, because every game starts to be more difficult.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“I’ve been in this situation for four years. It is a wear and tear, it is getting more and more, more and more continuous, more intense.“It’s complicated – when you finish a game, I haven’t been able to talk for two or three days, which becomes complicated.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballers“For me, these six months were a very big challenge. I wanted to be with the team.“I hope I can make it until December because every game starts to be difficult.“I can’t take it anymore, it’s a health issue. There are days when I can’t be with my children. I have it decided.” More

    • 213 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Champions League club part ways with manager after just ONE GAME of new format following dubious record

      by

      A CHAMPIONS LEAGUE club has axed its manager after just one game in the tournament’s new format.There have been a mixture of opinions about the new system as the increased number of fixtures has players concerned for their welfare.Sergej Jakirovic has been sacked by Dinamo ZagrebCredit: GettyHis side were beaten 9-2 in the Champions League by Bayern MunichCredit: GettyHarry Kane scored four goals in the gameCredit: APDespite concerns, the first two matchdays have served up some thrilling games and lots of goals.The most goals came in Bayern Munich’s 9-2 drubbing of Dinamo Zagreb on Tuesday night.As a result of the match, Dinamo have parted ways with their manager Sergej Jakirovic.A club statement read: “GNK Dinamo would like to inform the public that a mutual termination of the contract with the former coach of the Blues, Sergej Jakirović, has been agreed upon.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”The first team will be led in the short term until a decision on a new long-term coaching solution is made by former member of the professional staff, Sandro Perkovic.”We thank Sergej Jakirovic from the bottom of our hearts for everything he has given for our club and wish him the best of luck and success in his future career.”We hereby appeal to the media and the public to be understanding towards Sergej Jakirovic and his family and not to worsen an already stressful situation.”Dinamo president Velimir Zajec – who had a spell as interim manager of Portsmouth – thanked the coach for his efforts but insisted the club’s interests must come first.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe said: “First of all, I want to thank Sergej Jakirovic for all the results he achieved.”We had a pleasant cooperation, he left an impression on me of a quality person and I wish him the best of luck in his future career.’Brain-breaking’ intro to Champions League MOTD divides fans as BBC decision shows ‘game has never been more gone'”The most important thing in these situations is to remain human, and to put Dinamo’s interests first.”It is now up to all of us to make a quality decision about a new coach in this difficult moment for Dinamo and to return to winning ways.”The heavy defeat to Bayern saw the German club set a number of records.It is the first time a club in the competition has hit nine goals in a single match.England captain Harry Kane netted four of the goals in the game, three of which came from the spot.Kane took his career tally in the Champions League to 33 as he surpassed Wayne Rooney’s record of 30.He was also the first Englishman to score four times in a single game in the tournament.One saving grace for Dinamo is that the seven-goal defeat is not the worst in the history of the competition.READ MORE SUN STORIESBesiktas and Malmo have both been beaten 8-0 in their games against Liverpool and Real Madrid, respectively.The Reds dispatched the Turkish outfit by the huge margin in 2007, while Madrid hammered Malmo in 2015.New Champions League formatEach club will play eight matches in the opening phase – against seeded opposition, in a system designed to ensure that teams play opponents of similar difficulty.The top eight teams in the “final” table will automatically go through to the last 16, where they will be joined by the eight play-off winners of ties between the sides placed ninth to 24th in the table.Despite there being just eight matches in the opening phase, European matches will be spread over 10 midweek slots.The new Champions League format also sees the implication of two additional qualifying spots.They will be awarded to the nations that are top of the “country coefficient” chart each season. More

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Referee ADMITS refusing to give Lionel Messi a card just so he could get Barcelona legend’s shirt after match

      by

      FORMER referee Carlos Chandia has admitted to purposefully avoiding booking Lionel Messi in return for the superstar’s match-worn shirt. Chilean referee Chandia was in charge of the 2007 Copa America semi-final between Argentina and Mexico when he took his opportunity to get a piece of history.Retired referee Carlos Chandia has admitted to avoiding booking Lionel Messi to get his match-worn shirtCredit: GettyChandia was in charge of Argentina’s Copa America semi-final clash against MexicoCredit: AFPArgentina led their semi-final 3-0 with just a few minutes to play thanks to goals from Gabriel Heinze, Juan Roman Riquelme and Messi himself.But despite being moments away from booking their spot in the final, they were close to being handed a huge disadvantage by losing Messi for the final.The Barcelona legend was one booking away from suspension and handled the ball in the middle of the park, giving Chandia no choice but to dish out a yellow and subsequently suspend him for the final – at least that’s what you would assume.Instead Chandia decided to bargain with Messi and offered him a spot in the final in return for his match-worn shirt.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpeaking to ESPN on the FShow, Chandia explained: “Out of nowhere, Messi lifts a ball and touches it with his hand, but in the middle of the pitch. “There was no goal-scoring chance for the Mexican team or anything like that. So, I told him: ‘This is a yellow card, but it will cost you your jersey,’ and I didn’t show him the yellow card. “There were two-and-a-half minutes left, and the score was 3-0. Showing him a yellow card would have taken away his chance of playing in the Copa America final.”The incredible offer was accepted too, according to Chandia, who explained that Messi offered up his shirt at the end of the game.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe said: “He gave me the shirt in the dressing room afterwards. In fact, he wanted to take it off on the pitch and I told him: ‘No, no, no, no; take it to the dressing room’. “And he came to the dressing room with the jersey and left it there for me.”Watch moment Cristiano Ronaldo mimics Lionel Messi’s ill-tempered rant as he cashes in on YouTube success Chandia has since admitted in a separate interview that he has now given the shirt to his son.While also suggesting that he wasn’t chosen as the referee for the final as a result of his sneaky on-field offer.Speaking to TNT Chile, he explained: “My son has it now, he keeps it. “The truth is that I think that because I didn’t give him the yellow card, Brazilians ended up saying something and that’s why I wasn’t the main referee of the Copa America final.”Fortunately for Chandia, his decision didn’t directly impact the outcome of the Copa America final with Messi and Argentina unable to life the trophy in Venezuela.Brazil ended up battering their South American opponents 3-0 thanks to goals from Julio Baptista, Roberto Ayala and Dani Alves. More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Manuel Akanji reveals major problem with Man City’s ‘Oasis kit’ that led to embarrassing moment vs Inter Milan

      by

      MANUEL AKANJI has revealed the one major issue he found with Manchester City’s new fourth kit.Pep Guardiola’s side donned the new strip during their Champions League clash with Inter Milan on Wednesday – despite playing at home.Man City debuted their new fourth kit on WednesdayCredit: AFPManuel Akanji admitted he got confused due to the colours at one point during the matchCredit: GettyThe new blue, yellow and white shirt has been co-designed by lifelong City fan and Oasis singer Noel Gallagher.But some supporters have branded it one of the worst they have ever seen.Man City defender Akanji wasn’t as harsh when giving his opinion after the match.However, he did highlight one major issue.Read More in FootballThe Swiss star explained: “I like it a lot. I’d seen it already before I was at the shooting when we did it for Puma.”One action I got confused with the referee on the sideline, I thought it was Bernardo (Silva) so I passed the ball to him.”But otherwise I like the kit a lot and I’m looking forward to playing more in it.”Officials wore bright yellow shirts and socks with black shorts during the Champions League clash.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd in the second half, Akanji appeared to get the two yellows mixed up and accidentally passed the ball to a linesman.The match between City and Inter ended 0-0 at the Etihad Stadium.Watch England star Jude Bellingham’s classy gesture to gutted Manuel Akanji after Euro 2024 penalty missDespite the result, Guardiola was pleased with his team’s performance.He said: “It was a difficult match, but we knew it beforehand.”Inter are a wonderful team. They defended well and were dangerous on the counterattack. But we played well in the second half and had at least 4-5 chances.”But we are also a fantastic team. I am very happy to coach this group and be able to attack against a team that defends so well. And let’s not forget they’re the Italian champions.” More

    • 225 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Female Champions League official reveals she’s sick of being called ‘sexy ref’ after being forced to delete Instagram

      by

      A FEMALE Champions League official has revealed she is sick of being called “sexy ref”.She was also forced to delete her Instagram after receiving sexist messages on the platform.Emanuela Rusta has revealed she is sick of being called ‘sexy ref’Credit: GettyThe Champions League official was forced to delete her Instagram due to sexist messagesCredit: InstagramRusta has made history by refereeing in the Albanian top flight and internationallyCredit: GettyEmanuela Rusta is one of Albania’s top referees and has already made history in her officiating career.The 30-year-old is the first woman to referee in her country’s male top flight and the first Albanian international referee.She is now set to take charge of Thursday’s Women’s Champions League qualifying tie between Sporting Lisbon and Real Madrid.However, ahead of the match, she has hit out at headlines calling her “sexy ref” instead of focussing on her ability as a referee.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRusta told AFP, via Marca: “They should focus more on my professionalism than on other things.”You have to fight hard to be accepted. You have to blow the glass ceiling to pieces.”Refereeing is not a question of gender, but of competence. To make good decisions you need to know the rules of the game perfectly, but also to be physically fit and have a great ability to concentrate.”Headlines written about Rusta include one calling her “the sexy referee who raises the temperature”.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMeanwhile, another from a Champions League match in 2022 claimed she “stole the show” despite only being the fourth official.She added: “The (Albanian) Referees Association has always focused on promoting women, so my case is not a coincidence or the end of the process.Refs’ chief Howard Webb reveals Declan Rice red card was correct – but Arsenal wronged by different incorrect decision”I hope that the day is not far off when there are four women refereeing a match in the top men’s category.”Although it is apparently a predominantly male environment, I feel respected and appreciated for the work I do on the field.”As long as you consider it a professional relationship, you are correct, objective and dedicated, there is no lack of help from colleagues or the Association.”Prior to becoming a referee, Rusta played basketball back in Albania before switching to football whilst studying physical education.She now balances her officiating career with working as a secondary school PE teacher.Thursday’s European clash will mark her first Women’s Champions League match as referee.However, Rusta has already taken charge of 15 Albanian men’s SuperLiga matches, including two this season.Rusta also works as a secondary school PE teacher in AlbaniaCredit: InstagramThe 30-year-old has taken charge of two men’s SuperLiga matches already this seasonCredit: GettyRusta will officiate the Women’s Champions League qualifier between Sporting Lisbon and Real MadridCredit: Getty More

    • 163 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Transfer recommendations ahead of Gameweek 5 – Manchester United assets promise short-terms gains

      by

      GAMEWEEK 5 promises to be a pivotal juncture in the Dream Team calendar.Manchester City v Arsenal is the current Premier League equivalent of an unstoppable force against an immovable object and gaffers will be split between those who captain Erling Haaland (£9.1m) and those who feel this is the week to take him on.Ten of the 20 Premier League sides have two fixtures to fulfil this coming Gameweek with eight in Carabao Cup action and two set to start their Europa League campaign.Which brings us neatly onto this week’s transfer recommendations…Roll up, roll up, get your Gameweek 5 transfers suggestionsCredit: Dream TeamMarcus Rashford (£3.8m)What a difference a week makes.Manchester United’s No10 mustered just nine points from his first three outings of the season and looked bereft of confidence but he was at the heart of an incredibly encouraging Gameweek 4 for the Red Devils.Erik ten Hag’s side followed up their 3-0 win over Southampton with a 7-0 thrashing of Barnsley in the Carabao Cup with Rashford contributing three goals and an assist across the two games.Granted, the opposition were favourable but a 32-point return has to be respected – he’ll finish as the Gameweek’s joint-top performer barring something special from an Arsenal player this evening.Rashford’s mega haul means he’s destined for a price increase so gaffers could take a short-term punt on him for one or two Gameweeks and then flip him for a tidy profit.Most read in Dream TeamAnd it’s an opportune time to employ such a tactic with Man United set to take on Crystal Palace and FC Twente.The Carabao Cup games may yield healthy returns but the top teams are expected to rotate their squad amid schedule congestion.Whereas Ten Hag will surely name strong line-ups in both Gameweek 5 fixtures as he’ll want to start the Europa League campaign with a win.All this means Rashford, with confidence renewed, should get at least 120 minutes playing time this coming Gameweek.Only Dwight McNeil (£3.5m) has created more big chances than the 26-year-old at the time of writing.Garnacho is pushing hard for a place in the starting line-upCredit: RexAlejandro Garnacho (£3.6m) also amassed 32 points in Gameweek 4, via three goals and two assists.The Argentine winger ticks a lot of boxes but he’s been limited to an average of 35 minutes per league fixture so far this season, which is a concern.If we knew the 20-year-old would start both games he would be an excellent option but that’s not a guarantee given Ten Hag’s recent team selections – proceed with caution.Dominic Solanke (£4m)First things first, Tottenham don’t look great right now.Following a painful defeat in the North London derby, Ange Postecoglou oversaw a meek performance against Coventry on Wednesday night, though his side did beat the Championship outfit in the end.That being said, we still think Spurs assets are well positioned to provide healthy returns in Gameweek 5 as they too will participate in the opening round of Europa League games.We’re backing Solanke to score his first Spurs goal in Gameweek 5Credit: GettySolanke and company have the luxury of back-to-back home games against Brentford (depleted by injuries) and Qarabag.The ex-Bournemouth striker returned from injury in Gameweek 4 and while he returned just six points from two outings, he’s a tempting option as the focal point of the attack.Admittedly, Spurs have struggled to convert possession into goals but the statistics suggest they will generate plenty of chances against the Bees – only West Ham have faced more shots in the top flight this term.Couple this match-up with a home game against Azerbaijani opposition on Thursday night and there’s a relatively good chance Solanke opens his account in Gameweek 5.The likes of Son Heung-min (£5.2m), Pedro Porro (£4.4m) and James Maddison (£4.3m) are all viable too.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWOllie Watkins (£5.6m)Aston Villa’s main man finally came to the party in Gameweek 4.Watkins scored twice against Everton last Saturday to inspire his side to a comeback victory and provided an assist away to Young Boys in the Champions League on Tuesday night.When all was said done, he added 24 points to his total – only the aforementioned Rashford and Garnacho have earned more points this Gameweek at the time of writing.Looking ahead to Gameweek 5, the Villains are due to host an out-of-form Wolves at Villa Park before travelling to Wycombe for Carabao Cup commitments.Watkins bagged 24 points in Gameweek 4Credit: GettyIt wouldn’t be a surprise if Watkins was rested for the match-up against League One opposition (he was pictured icing his ankle in Switzerland after being substituted) but the impressive forward could feast against Gary O’Neil’s mob – only Everton have conceded more league goals this season.Plus, Watkins is not merely a short-term punt, he’s potentially a set-and-forget asset.Villa are one of just seven teams with two fixtures to fulfil in Gameweek 6 (Ipswich and Bayern Munich).Dominik Szoboszlai (£4.1m)There are several Liverpool assets who should be a higher priority than the Hungary international but given Mohamed Salah (£7.6m), Luis Diaz (£5m) and Trent Alexander-Arnold (£5.9m) are already among the most-popular players in the game, there’s no need to waste time detailing their attributes.Szoboszlai is an affordable differential for gaffers who want a slice of the Reds’ action without breaking the bank.Szoboszlai looked much brighter against Milan in midweekCredit: AFPThe 23-year-old was subdued against Nottingham Forest (as were all his team-mates) but he took Milan for 11 points in midweek.He is expected to continue as the most-advanced midfielder in Arne Slot’s system for the foreseeable future.READ MORE SUN STORIESLiverpool host Bournemouth (league) and West Ham (cup) in Gameweek 5 with Wolves and Bologna to follow in Gameweek 6.Confirm your transfers for Gameweek 5 before Saturday’s 11am deadline.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More