Sport Live Blogs

DANI ALVES has completed an emotional free transfer back to Barcelona.But his new team-mate Sergio Aguero is at risk of never playing football again after an irregular heartbeat was discovered.
The Argentina will have to sit out a minimum of three further months of action.
Meanwhile Frank Lampard has rejected the chance to take over Norwich at the 11th hour.
As a result of the former Chelsea boss’ decision, the Canaries are set to offer recently dismissed Aston Villa chief Dean Smith the manager’s job.
Norwich sacked Daniel Farke last week, despite him earning a crucial first win of the season at Brentford away.
But one manager who will be going nowhere is England’s Gareth Southgate.
The FA are set to tie Southgate down to a new deal which will take him through to Euro 2024 and make him one of the highest paid Three Lions bosses ever.
We’ve also got all the latest on a potential transfer for Declan Rice as well as updates from Chelsea, who are eyeing a swoop for Attila Szalai in January.
Get all the latest football news, updates and transfer gossip below…
LOAN STAR – By SunSport’s Charlie Wyett
Hakim Ziyech looks set to leave Chelsea on loan in January.
Dortmund are interested in landing the Moroccan forward who has featured just 10 times for Thomas Tuchel this season.
Blues manager Tuchel was already considering letting Ziyech leave before the end of the August window but a move failed to materialise.
Dortmund were one of the clubs interested in signing the former Ajax star, 28, when Chelsea paid £33.3million for him in the summer of 2020.
Ziyech has three years remaining on his deal at Stamford Bridge, making a loan deal the most likely option.
The Bundesliga side are likely to be joined by other sides in the January window looking to sign him.
Tuchel has preferred to hand minutes to Ross Barkley and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who were both loaned out under Frank Lampard last season, over the Moroccan.

OLE RODGERED – Exclusive by Neil Custis
Brendan Rodgers has been put forward as the No1 candidate to take over at Manchester United.
A leading agent has been sounding out potential successors to under-fire boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
As SunSport revealed last month, the Red Devils board have a four-man shortlist to replace Solskjaer if they decide to sack him.
They were Leicester boss Rodgers, Antonio Conte, Zinedine Zidane and Erik ten Hag.
Former Chelsea title winning boss Conte was interested but was not prepared to wait around once the Tottenham offer came along.
Out-of-work Zidane guided Real Madrid to three Champions League titles in two spells but indicated that he would not be interested in the Old Trafford hotseat.
There was a cool reception from Ajax coach Ten Hag who did not want to discuss any hypothetical openings with the agent.
But United have been informed he is confident they could get Rodgers out of Leicester.

HE’LL DU – By SunSport’s Paul Jiggins
Tottenham are plotting to snatch Serbian sensation Dusan Vlahovic from under the noses of rivals Manchester City and Arsenal.
New Spurs boss Antonio Conte wants another striker in January to take the weight off Harry Kane.
The ambitious Italian only took charge of the North Londoners at the beginning of this month.
But he has already made it clear to chairman Daniel Levy and managing director of football Fabio Paratici that he needs more options in attack.
Vlahovic is top of Conte’s shopping list after bagging 21 goals for Fiorentina in Serie A last season.
The frontman, 21, has netted eight goals in 12 league games this term and Italian giants Juventus are also keen.
He was already on Paratici’s radar when the Italian joined Spurs as their new recruitment guru last summer.
With Vlahovic’s contract due to expire in 2023, Fiorentina are said to be willing to cash in on their £65million-rated marksman.
UNITED FRONT
Arsene Wenger’s plans to host a World Cup every two years have been dealt a blow by unimpressed Premier League clubs.
The ex-Arsenal boss had put forward a scheme to play the tournament biennially rather than once every four years as it currently is.
The Frenchman is now Fifa’s chief of football development and has also suggested extending international windows.
But all 20 top flight clubs have unanimously rejected the proposals amid concerns for player welfare and a packed domestic calendar.
Premier League chief executive Richard Masters confirmed the united front and warned against tinkering in future.
He said: “The Premier League is committed to preventing any radical changes to the post-2024 Fifa International Match Calendar that would adversely affect player welfare and threaten the competitiveness, calendar, structures and traditions of domestic football.”

KANE IS ABLE
What a goal this was by Harry Kane!
The moment the Spurs man sealed his perfect hat-trick tonight

FULL TIME: ENGLAND 5 ALBANIA 0
The Three Lions ease through the second-half to seal an excellent 5-0 victory over Albania at a packed Wembley Stadium.
Harry Maguire set Gareth Southgate’s side on their way in the ninth minute, nodding home Reece James’ delivery.
Harry Kane then made it 2-0 with a close range header, before teeing up Jordan Henderson to make it three.
The Spurs star then made it 4-0 with a left-footed drive, before sealing his perfect hat-trick with an excellent right-footed volley on the stroke of half-time.
A low-key second-half was to follow, but fans were treated to the international debut of Emile Smith Rowe, with the Arsenal star coming on for Raheem Sterling in the 77th minute.
GUNNER BE SPECIAL
Emile Smith Rowe is on for his England debut!
Arsenal’s No10 replaces Raheem Sterling in the 77th minute for his first Three Lions senior appearance!
Still 5-0 at Wembley.
NOT KEANE?
Manchester United legend Roy Keane believes there is ‘something going wrong’ regarding the club’s England representatives.
Discussing Mason Greenwood, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho on ITV prior to the Three Lions’ clash against Albania, Keane said: “Every case is different, Sancho hasn’t been getting many minutes recently.
“The issue I suppose with Rashford and Greenwood is that whenever they’re selected it seems to be an issue.
“I know they’ve had injuries, I understand that, but we know their quality and when Gareth is asked about them he says ‘yeah I spoke to Marcus…’ It seems like a big conversation.
“It’s as if there’s something going wrong, there’s something amiss with some of these United lads.”
He added: “They’re young and hungry but a change of scenery will probably do them the world of good, there’s negativity around United at the moment with the bad results.
“There’s this idea that they need to save their club and do something about it on the training pitch there.
“I think for the two young lads to come here, change of scenery and again, get some minutes under your belt.”
KEANE TO CRITICISE
Here are Roy Keane’s full quotes regarding Harry Maguire’s first-half celebration.
The Man United legend huffed on itv: “He thinks he’s shutting the critics up. But I think It’s embarrassing.
“He’s been a disgrace the last couple months for Man Utd.
“He thinks if he scores there, he’s going to shut his critics up. Embarrassing.”
‘EMBARRASSING’
Roy Keane has labelled Harry Maguire’s celebration against Albania tonight as ’embarrassing’.
The Man United cupped his ears after scoring England’s first tonight.
But Keane felt the gesture was ’embarrassing’, as one goal doesn’t make up for his ‘disgraceful’ Man United performances.
Fellow itv pundits Jermain Defoe and Ian Wright were also critical of the red Devils skipper.

ROY RAGE
Manchester United legend Roy Keane made a cheeky dig at Tottenham prior to tonight’s England clash with Albania.
Referencing Kane’s slump after not getting a move to Manchester City, the Irishman said: “He’s got to liven up. He’s got to liven up.
“He’s got to look at himself and say, ‘get over these disappointments’.
“Listen, he plays for Spurs he should be used to disappointment.”
HALF TIME: ENGLAND 5 ALBANIA 0
Wow, what a perfect start for the Three Lions at a sold out Wembley Stadium tonight.
Manchester United star Harry Maguire nodded them into the lead in the ninth minute, before a Harry Kane double either side of a Jordan Henderson strike put Gareth Southgate’s side into a commanding position.
The Spurs man then made it a perfect hat-trick, when he volleyed home a corner on the stroke of half-time.
This could finish any number!
GOAL! HARRY KANE HAT-TRICK!!! 5-0!
It’s terrible marking but what a volley by Harry Kane!
The Spurs ace showed off acrobatic skills by volleying a corner home to make it a perfect first-half hat-trick!
What an opening 45 for Gareth Southgate’s men!
GOAL! HARRY KANE!!! 4-0!
33. England are running riot at Wembley!
Harry Kane certainly isn’t goal-shy tonight!
The Spurs man gets in-behind the Albania defence before shifting the ball onto his left-foot and rifling the ball home.
This could be any number!
GOAL! JORDAN HENDERSON!!! 3-0!
28. Jordan Henderson makes it 3-0 to England with just his second Three Lions goal!
The Liverpool midfielder one-twos with Harry Kane before slotting past the Albania goalkeeper.
England absolutely flying at Wembley!
DAN BUT NOT OUT
It’s official, Dani Alves is back at Barcelona!
The Catalan giants have confirmed that the 38-year-old has agreed a deal until the end of the season.

GOAL! HARRY KANE!!! 2-0!
18. England have grabbed a second, and it’s that man Harry Kane!
Jordan Henderson one-twos with Phil Foden before clipping an inviting cross into the middle.
And skipper Harry Kane makes absolutely no mistake from close range.
MAG-NIFICENT
Here’s that Harry Maguire header.
He definitely enjoyed that one!

GOAL! HARRY MAGUIRE!! 1-0!
Manchester United star Harry Maguire has nodded England into the lead at Wembley!
The big centre-back rises above his marker to meet Reece James’ free-kick and power a header past the helpless goalkeeper.
What a start for the Three Lions!
KICK-OFF!
England are underway against Albania!
A sell-out Wembley crowd seems right up for this!

BELE UP
Ousmane Dembele has become the first Barcelona star to fall foul of strict new boss Xavi after being fined for arriving 87 minutes EARLY for training.
The Nou Camp legend, 41, officially replaced Ronald Koeman as manager last week.
Xavi immediately introduced TEN golden rules his stars must abide by.
One of those was to ensure you arrive for training no later than 90 minutes before the usual 10am session.
Xavi is keen for the Barcelona squad to enjoy a light breakfast together before doing some individual gym work before the group session.
And unfortunately for Dembele, that means he technically arrived three minutes LATE after clocking in at 8.33am.
ESPN reporter Jordi Blanco Duch revealed: “Dembele will pay the first fine for being late.
“He arrived at the Sports City at 8:33 in the morning, when the deadline for arrival at the dressing room 8:30 – with training at 10:00.”
JU WISH
Paul Pogba has put Juventus at the top of his wishlist as he edges towards a free move away from Manchester United in the summer, according to reports.
The France midfielder, 28, is out of contract at Old Trafford at the end of the current season.
Pogba re-joined United in a then-world-record £89million move from Juventus in 2016.
And the 2018 World Cup winner wants a return to the Old Lady, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

BULL FIGHT
Manchester United and Arsenal could be set to miss out on RB Leipzig’s talented youngster Dominik Szoboszlai.
LaLiga giants Atletico Madrid have entered the race to sign the 21-year-old and reports suggest they could be in pole position.
AS reports United are a more likely Premier League destination than the Gunners if Szoboszlai does favour a move to England.
The North London club tried to bring him to the Emirates last year but he opted for a five-year deal in Germany instead.
Any renewed offer would need to trigger the player’s reported €60million (£51m) release clause.
FULL TIME: MOLDOVA 0 SCOTLAND 2
That’s it! Scotland have booked their play-off place ahead of next year’s World Cup next year.
Without the suspended, in-form Lyndon Dykes, the Tartan Army managed to prevail courtesy of goals by Nathan Patterson and Che Adams.
Craig Gordon’s late penalty save ensured a comfortable finish in Chisinau.
ALBANIA XI vs England
And here’s how the visitors line-up for tonight’s World Cup qualifier against England at Wembley.

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FRANK LAMPARD has rejected the chance to take over Norwich at the 11th hour.As a result of the former Chelsea boss’ decision, the Canaries are set to offer recently dismissed Aston Villa chief Dean Smith the manager’s job.
Norwich sacked Daniel Farke last week, despite him earning a crucial first win of the season at Brentford away.
But one manager who will be going nowhere is England’s Gareth Southgate.
The FA are set to tie Southgate down to a new deal which will take him through to Euro 2024 and make him one of the highest paid Three Lions bosses ever.
We’ve also got all the latest on a potential transfer for Declan Rice as well as updates from Chelsea, who are eyeing a swoop for Attila Szalai in January.
Get all the latest football news, updates and transfer gossip below…
NEW BEGINNING
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Mark Bosnich has advised keeper Dean Henderson to join Newcastle.
Bosnich told talkSPORT: “Newcastle are a club who are on the go and on the move – but they are also in a perilous position right now.
“New manager. It’s important to get your spin right and the goalkeeper is an integral part of that.
“He should go and should go as soon as he possibly can”
DOUBLE OR QUITS
England manager Gareth Southgate is being offered a double-your-money £6million-a-year salary to extend his contract, SunSport understand.
But the FA fear Southgate will not agree a deal beyond that because he could be looking at a return to the Premier League.
Full talks are set to start following the final two World Cup qualifiers against Albania and San Marino.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham announced during Euro 2020 he wanted the 51-year-old manager to extend.
But the Three Lions head coach has been adamant that he will not discuss the offer until the national team has qualified
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ALV THAT
Barcelona legend Dani Alves has reportedly agreed a sensational deal to return to the Nou Camp.
According to Sport, Barca are currently finalising a move for Alves, who is currently a free agent.
The cash-strapped Blaugrana are also set for a financial boost as the right-back has sensationally agreed to play for ONE EURO-A-WEEK.
The club’s bigwigs have one more meeting scheduled with the Brazilian and his team before an official announcement can be made.
But there are not thought to be any stumbling blocks between the two parties and the move will soon be made official
‘MAIN CONCERN’
Arsenal great Nigel Winterburn has urged the club’s board to back manager Mikel Arteta in the transfer market.
Winterburn told SunSport‘s William Pugh: “I think that the fans will always have a voice, particularly if they’re not happy with how things are being run behind the scenes.
“Arsenal are starting to invest a bit more money in the transfer market, they’ve certainly invested heavily this season.
“We have the owners there, we just need to make sure that we are starting to travel back in the right direction.
“We’ve fallen away from that top four, but now we need to go back in that direction.
“As long as Arteta has finances to keep improving the squad, then that would be my main concern”
EMILE SMITH WHOA
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has compared Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe to Robert Pires and Alexander Hleb after his England call-up.
Ferdinand said on his FIVE YouTube channel: “There’s a team, there’s a united team.
“There’s a togetherness that I haven’t seen at Arsenal for a long time. There’s nobody doing more right now than Emile Smith Rowe.
“He reminds me, with more end product it seems right now and I think he’ll go onto levels, his style is a little bit Hleb.
“He plays low, socks similar, the way he moves and manipulates the ball, can keep people off balance all game.
“He’s got a bit of Hleb about him. He’s got a Robert Pires vibe a little bit”
STERLING BOOST
Arsenal appear to have received a transfer boost amid their interest in Manchester City ace Raheem Sterling.
Sterling has been largely sidelined by City boss Pep Guardiola and is thought to be open to a move away from the Etihad with the Gunners and Barcelona linked.
According to AS, however, new Barca head coach Xavi has asked the club to ditch their previous plans for the January transfer window as he performs a full assessment of the squad.
The club legend is also said to be particularly focused on La Masia’s most promising young talents
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ROM-ING CHARGE
Chelsea superstar Romelu Lukaku suggested he could return for the Premier League clash against Leicester after the international break.
Lukaku has been out with an ankle injury and it was reported he and fellow forward Timo Werner will be back later this month.
Lukaku tweeted: “Being on the sideline these last weeks… I realise how much fun it is to just train and compete against other teams!”
“Soon though”
GOING FOR THE KIM
Chelsea star Hakim Ziyech has been linked with a move to Borussia Dortmund ahead of the January transfer window.
According to Bild, Ziyech ‘definitely wants to leave’ the Blues and Dortmund could consider taking him on loan.
The Bundesliga giants’ manager Marco Rose and consultant Matthias Sammer will hold talks to discuss January targets after the match against Hertha Berlin on December 18th.
Therefore, the club’s concrete plans are expected to become clearer next month
STILL ON
Arsenal legendary boss Arsene Wenger is refusing to back down on his plan for a World Cup every two years.
Wenger said at a special fundraising event for the Twinning Project at the London Palladium, said: “The calendar is fixed until 2024 and nobody knows what will happen after that.
“It needs to change because we need a more modern relationship between national team football and club football.
“Covid has added to the problems. Today the whole world plays in Europe and that means that in the international break the players have to travel from there back all over the world for qualifiers”
MANE BLOW
Liverpool may have suffered an injury blow ahead of their match with Arsenal after the international break.
Sadio Mane went off injured during Senegal’s 1-1 World Cup qualifier with Tongo on Thursday.
The winger landed awkwardly after colliding with an opponent during an aerial challenge and appeared to have suffered a knock to his hip or ribs.
The Reds take on the Gunners at Anfield on November 20 and the extent of the 29-year-old’s injury is not yet known
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UTD WE STAND
Manchester United ace Marcus Rashford says lack of education is to blame for the racist abuse he and other players receive on social media.
Rashford was targeted along with United team-mate Jadon Sancho and Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka after their missed penalties in the Euro 2020 final shoot-out against Italy.
The England international said: “I think educating ourselves on, and championing other cultures, can only benefit our understanding. Discrimination usually stems from a lack of education. It’s a defence mechanism.
“Instead of stigmatising differences, we should be celebrating them. How boring would the world be if we were all the same?
“Books are a great source for us to highlight different characters and better understand background and journey”
GRAVE NEWS
Ajax star Ryan Gravenberch has delivered a blow to Manchester United and Liverpool as he expressed his desire to sign a new deal with the Dutch champions.
Gravenberch told Voetbal International: “I am very happy at Ajax, and I don’t yet want to leave.
“I am in talks with the club about a new contract. Things are progressing, and hopefully they will turn out well.
“I don’t feel like this is my last season with Ajax. I feel that I can still learn a lot here, and I still want to win a lot of trophies with the club.
“I’ll never forget the magical atmosphere at our Champions League games in the 2018-19 season, which I watched from the stand.
“And now I’m playing in these games myself. The fans’ support truly drives us on”
ARD TRUTH
New Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard has vowed to take the club to Europe after replacing Dean Smith.
Gerrard called time on his successful three-and-a-half year stint at Rangers to fulfil his ambition of managing in the Premier League.
Gerrard said: “Aston Villa is a club with a rich history and tradition in English football and I am immensely proud to become its new head coach.
“In my conversations with Nassef, Wes and the rest of the board, it was apparent how ambitious their plans are for the club and I am looking forward to helping them achieve their aims”
ALBANIA TEAM NEWS
Albania manager Edoardo Reja is boosted by the return of Endri Cekici from suspension ahead of tonight’s clash with England.
And Southampton’s Armando Broja, who’s on-loan from Chelsea, has returned to full fitness for the encounter at Wembley.
However, Atalanta ace Berat Djimsiti suffered a forearm fracture on international duty last month and is not available.
Albania are third in Group I, five points behind leaders England and two away from second-placed Poland
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FEELING FRANK
Frank Lampard is set to be appointed as new Norwich manager.
The Canaries sacked Daniel Farke on Saturday, just hours after he guided them to their first win of the season.
Lampard held conversations with the Carrow Road board on Monday and, according to talkSPORT’s Jim White, has now agreed to take over the Premier League’s bottom club.
However, SunSport understands that the former Chelsea manager has NOT yet been offered the job
THREE’S A CROWD
Newcastle want to sign three-out-of-favour Manchester United aces in the January transfer window.
Donny van de Beek, Jesse Lingard and Dean Henderson have all seen limited game time under United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
And according to the Daily Mail, Henderson wants to leave Old Trafford to play first-team football if he can’t reclaim the No1 spot from David de Gea.
Van de Beek has spent a full season at the Red Devils, but has failed to stamp down a first-team spot.
And Lingard is looking to fight his way back into England contention for next year’s World Cup in Qatar and his chances of doing that in Manchester look unlikely
JUVE GOT NEWS
Manchester United ace Paul Pogba is prepared to lower his wages to rejoin Juventus next summer.
But that is if Juve successfully qualify for next season’s Champions League tournament.
That is according Gazzetta dello Sport, who report that the midfielder is keen on a return to Turin.
The France international’s deal at Old Trafford expires in June
GET YOUR FIX
The Premier League have revealed their schedule for next season and confirmed how the winter’s World Cup in Qatar will fit.
The Prem will kick off on the weekend of August 6, 2022.
It will then be played up to November 12-13, before players join up with their international teams from November 14.
The Premier League will resume on Boxing Day after the World Cup Final, which takes place 8 days before on Sunday 18 December.
The final round of games will be on May 28, 2023, when all matches will be played simultaneously
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ENGLAND TEAM NEWS
England are set to face Albania tonight at Wembley Stadium as they are pushing for World Cup qualification.
Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate has lost West Ham’s Declan Rice (illness), Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford (leg injury) and Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse (illness)
Southgate will also be without Chelsea’s Mason Mount and United’s Luke Shaw due to a dental issue and concussion respectively.
That has allowed Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe to gain an international call-up, which could lead to a debut tonight
TRANSFER BLOW
Arsenal have been joined by Juventus in the bidding war for Fiorentina star Dusan Vlahovic.
That is according to Tuttosport, who report that Vlahovic is at the top of their list .
The Serbia international has netted 10 goals in 12 games this season, eight of which have come in Serie A.
And after failing to replace Cristiano Ronaldo in the summer transfer window, the Bianconeri are in need of a new centre-forward.
Although the Gunners could be willing to meet the Viola’s £68million asking price, Vlahovic may not be keen on moving to north London
FIVE GUYS
New Barcelona boss Xavi has drawn up a five-man shortlist as he prepares to bolster his squad after his arrival.
That is according to Sport, who report that the club legend is keeping tabs on Manchester United’s Edinson Cavani and Arsenal’s Alexandre Lacazette as solutions to lead the line in Sergio Aguero’s absence.
If neither of those sign then Barca may look to acquire RB Salzburg’s Karim Adeyemi.
Another area Xavi will be looking to improve is on the wings with Manchester City star Raheem Sterling linked.
Meanwhile, if Sterling is unwilling to consider Barcelona then the Spaniard may opt instead to try and sign Bayern Munich’s Kingsley Coman
SHIR THING
Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo showed his human side after Portugal’s goalless draw with Ireland at the Aviva Stadium.
A young girl went past security and made her way to the pitch to meet her idol.
Ronaldo then gave her a hug before delivering his shirt and yet another hug.
Portugal now need to avoid defeat against Serbia to punch their ticket to the World Cup in Qatar

NO CHARGE
Paris St-Germain women’s midfielder Aminata Diallo has been released without charge by French police investigating an attack on her team-mate Kheira Hamraoui.
Diallo was arrested on Wednesday in connection with the attack, but was subsequently let go after being questioned.
It’s not clear what will happen next in the investigation as a 34-year-old man was also released after his arrest for the alleged crime.
And the French authorities are also keeping tight-lipped on the proceedings.
SILKY SHANE 
Republic of Ireland defender Shane Duffy left Cristiano Ronaldo blushing with a superb Cruyff turn during his side’s draw with Portugal.
Stephen Kenny’s side earned an impressive goalless draw with the Euro 2016 winners at the Aviva Stadium as their form continues to improve.
And Brighton defender Duffy provided one of the highlights of the evening with a silky piece of skill which left Ronaldo bamboozled.
The Cruyff turn displayed by the Seagulls centre-back was a demonstration of the confidence the Ireland players are beginning to feel under Kenny.
GOOD MORNING FOOTBALL FANS 
Steven Gerrard was officially named Aston Villa’s new manager – with the former Rangers chief to be backed in the January transfer window.
The Liverpool legend, 41, has enjoyed success north of the border with Rangers since taking over in June 2018.
In his first managerial role, Gerrard led the Glasgow side to their first Scottish Premiership title in a decade in 2020-21.
And with his stock continuing to rise, the 114-cap former England midfielder has replaced Dean Smith as manager after his sacking following a FIFTH consecutive Prem defeat at Southampton.
The Kop icon has signed a two-and-a-half year deal at Villa Park and will be in charge for the first time next Saturday at home to Brighton.
Meanwhile, Gerrard’s ex-England team-mate Frank Lampard  is set to be appointed Norwich City’s new manager, according to reports.
The Canaries sacked Daniel Farke on Saturday – just hours after he guided them to their first win of the season.
Lamps held conversations with the Carrow Road board on Monday and, according to talkSPORT’s Jim White, has now agreed to take over the Premier League’s bottom club.
However, SunSport understands that Lampard has NOT yet been offered the job.
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FRANK LAMPARD is on the verge of becoming Norwich’s new manager.The Chelsea hero will replace Daniel Farke, who was dismissed last weekend.
Elsewhere, Steven Gerrard has been confirmed as Aston Villa’s new manager after the departure of Dean Smith.
The ex-Rangers boss has signed a two-and-a-half year deal with the Villans.
We’ve also got all the latest on a potential transfer for Declan Rice as well as updates from Chelsea, who are eyeing a swoop for Attila Szalai in January.
Get all the latest football news, updates and transfer gossip below…
FIREMAN SAM
Sam Allardyce has not ruled out taking another job in the game.
Sacking season is now in full swing – and Allardyce may yet be asked to fulfil his role as Fireman Sam saving clubs from relegation.
He said: “I keep making a fool of myself by saying I’m retiring and then going back.
“So I’d still be up for it if another offer comes in and I’ll know I’m really finished only when I stop getting offers.”
Big Sam didn’t get the call from dive-bombing Aston Villa after the sacking of Dean Smith – with Steven Gerrard now his successor.

MARS DELIGHT
Matteo Guendouzi has seemingly ruled out a return to Arsenal next summer, with the Marseille loanee insisting he wants a ‘long-term’ transfer.
Guendouzi, 22, is currently on loan at Stade Velodrome after finding himself frozen out by Gunners boss Mikel Arteta.
He told RMC Sport: “I am on loan. I am focused on what I have to do with Marseille.
“I want to be a part of Marseille for the long-term.
“I am very comfortable here and I want to continue have fun in Marseille.”

WRIGHT TIME TO GO?
Arsenal legend Ian Wright believes Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has ‘reached his level’ as Manchester United boss.
He said on Wrighty’s House: “Every pundit is seeing and saying the same thing, no direction, no coordination, no structure with great players.
“If they get it right in situations, they are going to beat teams. But anyone who is organised against Man United, like we saw at Leicester, like we saw Liverpool do at a canter, you’ll cause them a massive problem.
“And that is happening simply because the manager has got to his level.
“I’m looking at ex-Man United players, Rio [Ferdinand], Roy Keane, now we are starting to hear stuff, they cannot wait to say this player is not good enough, that player is not good enough.
“We say it flippantly. But this manager has reached his level.”
CAN IT BE DON?
Jadon Sancho could be used as a WING-BACK when Manchester United take on Watford.
The Red Devils return from the international break with a trip to Vicarage Road on November 20.
And with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer desperate to get the best out of his stuttering squad, that could see a major shake-up for the £73million winger.
Sancho, 21, has featured for just 342 minutes in the Premier League this season, starting three times.
Here’s how United could line-up against the Hornets.

BARNES STORMER
John Barnes claims Steven Gerrard is using Aston Villa as a ‘stepping stone’ to become the next Liverpool boss.
Gerrard’s stunning Villa Park move was confirmed on Thursday morning, with Rangers receiving £3million in compensation for their title-winning gaffer.
Barnes told BonusCodeBets: ““The Premier League is where managers want to be, and everyone is aware that Steven Gerrard is focusing on the Liverpool job.
“But if that won’t be around for two or three years, clubs like Aston Villa are one of the more attractive jobs, and they can eventually push into the top six, given the size of the club.
“Will a bigger club come along? No one can know for sure. If Celtic beat Rangers this year, would Steven still have had the same hype?
“If he aspires to manage in the Premier League, it’s a decent club for him.”
MIC DROP
Micah Richards has joked that Jamie Carragher may choose to defend new Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard in the same way Gary Neville has with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Gerrard, 41, was confirmed as Dean Smith’s successor at Villa Park on Thursday morning.
And Richards was quick to question what Gerrard’s ex-teammate Carragher’s approach will be when critiquing him on Sky Sports.
Speaking on Twitter, Richards said: “I wonder if Carragher is gonna protect Gerrard like Neville protects Solskjaer. But that’s not my business.”
Jabbing back at Richards, one social media user said: “We can wait for the Man City legend to become manager for you to criticise. Oh wait there aren’t any.”
Another added: “I’m not sure Gerrard will need the same amount of protection that Ole does.”

IRON BRU
Kevin De Bruyne revealed Manchester City trained for just TEN MINUTES the day before facing rivals United.
Pep Guardiola’s side cruised to a 2-0 win over their neighbours last Saturday thanks to an Eric Bailly own goal and Bernardo Silva effort after a defensive mix-up.
And after that red-hot performance you wouldn’t have known that City had hardly trained the day before.
De Bruyne told Dutch podcast Mid Mid: “The day before a game we usually train tactically, based on how the opponent plays.
“Before United, Pep said: ‘We don’t know how they are going to play. We shall see’. And we stopped training after 10 minutes or so.
“Often Pep knows how the opponent is going to play. This time he didn’t know, so he didn’t know what to do.
“We have done what we always do, but he didn’t know beforehand if they would play with five at the back, with four, a diamond in the middle, or with three up front.”

TOON IN FOR RABIOT
Newcastle are reportedly lining up an ambitious £13million move for Juventus star Adrien Rabiot.
But they face a fight to convince the Frenchman to join them over fellow suitors Real Madrid.
Calciomercato claims Rabiot has emerged as a top target for new Toon boss Eddie Howe in January.

REDS RETURN
Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard’s return to Anfield next month will NOT be shown on TV.
The Liverpool legend was announced as Dean Smith’s successor on Thursday as he departed Rangers after three years in charge.
And his arrival at Villa Park means he will now have to coach his side against the club he made more than 700 appearances for between 1998 and 2015.
Aston Villa travel to Anfield to take on Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool side on December 11.
However, BT Sport and Sky Sports have already selected their Premier League games for December – and Liverpool vs Aston Villa is not one of them.
Instead, the game will take place at 3pm on the Saturday when the UK television blackout is in force.
The matches aired on Sky that weekend will be Brentford vs Watford, Norwich vs Manchester United, Leicester vs Newcastle and Crystal Palace vs Everton.
Meanwhile, BT Sport are showing the early kick off on Saturday between Manchester City and Wolves.

JUVE KEEN ON MARTIAL AND LACAZETTE
Anthony Martial and Alexandre Lacazette are both reportedly being targeted by Juventus if they fail to land Dusan Vlahovic.
The Old Lady are battling both Arsenal and Tottenham to sign the Serbian striker from Fiorentina.
The 21-year-old is out of contract in 2023 and has so far resisted penning an extension, leading to speculation he could soon be departing for £68million.
Juventus are desperate to snatch him from their Serie A rivals – however they have also allegedly drawn-up a list of five potential alternatives.
Calciomercato claims boss Max Allegri has identified both Manchester United outcast Martial and Arsenal’s Lacazette as other options.

HE DID MY ED IN
Trent Alexander-Arnold rates Eden Hazard as his toughest-ever Premier League opponent and has explained why.
Hazard’s form and fitness have nose-dived since quitting the Blues for Real Madrid two years ago.
But asked to name his best top-flight rival, Alexander-Arnold had no doubts.
The England star, 23, told Amazon Prime: “Eden Hazard, yeah. The best by probably a little bit of a distance.
“Maybe De Bruyne, but directly against an opponent would have to be Hazard.
“Yeah – speed, agility, his awareness, his intelligence on and off the ball is unreal.”

PREMIER LEAGUE NEXT SEASON
Things get underway on August 6 – the weekend before the start of the campaign this year.
Club bosses agreed that the season will start early because of the winter World Cup getting underway on November 21.
The season will include 34 weekend Match Days, three mid-weeks and one Bank Holiday round.
And there will still be a standalone weekend for the FA Cup final.
Prem chiefs have tried to keep the season as close as possible to the usual format – while incorporating the break needed for the World Cup to take place.

BON APPETIT
West Ham will reportedly trigger a one-year extension clause in Angelo Ogbonna’s contract if the ace is injured for the rest of the season.
The Athletic claims Ogbonna, 33, faces a nervy wait after sustaining a cruciate ligament injury during Sunday’s 3-2 win over Liverpool.
The veteran Italian will be sidelined for at least a few months.
But there are fears he could miss the rest of the campaign when further scans and test results come back.
However, if David Moyes’ worst fears are realised, West Ham will not abandon Ogbonna in his hour of need.
Instead. the Hammers will apparently trigger a year-long extension clause in his contract – which is due to expire next summer.
That will give Ogbonna the necessary time and treatment to fight his way back to full fitness under the eyes of West Ham medics.
And Ogbonna will therefore get another shot to impress once he’s back after becoming a key man this season.

MORE FROM THE PREM
In a statement, a Premier League spokesperson said: “The Premier League 2022/23 season dates have been confirmed.
“The season has been adjusted to accommodate the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 which will take place in the middle of the domestic calendar.
“The Premier League season will start on 6 August 2022. Match Round 16 will be the last set of matches played over the weekend of 12-13 November ahead of the call-up period for the tournament beginning on Monday 14 November.
“The League will resume on Boxing Day following the FIFA World Cup Final, which takes place on Sunday 18 December 2022.
“The final match round of the campaign will be played on 28 May 2023, when all games will kick off simultaneously as usual.”
PREM PLAN
The controversial 2022 World Cup in Qatar is set to wreak havoc to the Premier League schedule.
England’s top-flight will break for SEVEN weeks while the tournament goes on – with the final pencilled in for December 18.
It comes 16 Match Days into the season – three before the halfway stage.
The Prem will then resume just a week later on Boxing Day 2022.
With the World Cup lasting 28 days, the last 16 round of the Carabao Cup will take place in the midweek before Christmas, before the December 26 fixtures will see the resumption of Prem activity.
That’s after breaking following the conclusion of games on the weekend of November 12-13.
The season will then finish on May 28, 2023.
The season will, as revealed by SunSport in September, finish on Sunday May 28, with the FA Cup Final the following Saturday, a week before the Champions League Final.

‘MAIN CONCERN’
Arsenal legend Nigel Winterburn has urged the club’s board to back Mikel Arteta in the transfer market.
He told SunSport: “I think that the fans will always have a voice, particularly if they’re not happy with how things are being run behind the scenes.
“Arsenal are starting to invest a bit more money in the transfer market, they’ve certainly invested heavily this season.
“We have the owners there, we just need to make sure that we are starting to travel back in the right direction.
“We’ve fallen away from that top four, but now we need to go back in that direction.
“As long as Arteta has finances to keep improving the squad, then that would be my main concern.”
FEELING FRANK
Frank Lampard is set to be appointed Norwich City’s new manager.
The Canaries sacked Daniel Farke on Saturday – just hours after he guided them to their first win of the season.
Lamps held conversations with the Carrow Road board on Monday and has now agreed to take over the Premier League’s bottom club.
It is his first job back in the dug-out since he was axed by Chelsea in January following his 18-month stint in charge at Stamford Bridge.
The ex-Derby boss was linked with the Newcastle job before Eddie Howe’s appointment.

MAUR DIFFICULT
Mauricio Pochettino has raised some eyebrows by labelling Ligue 1 as the ‘most physical league in the world’.
The ex-Southampton and Spurs boss believes the football on the other side of the channel is tougher than the action in the Premier League.
Pochettino told getfootballnewsfrance: “My impression is that it is a very complicated league.
“The quality is there. I think it’s the most physical league in the world. I think the talent is amazing, and there are great coaches too.
“Every single game you can see all the teams have quality, have the capacity to win the games, never give up.
“I think it’s a very, very good league, and we are so happy to be here.
“I’m not saying that it’s a better league than the Premier League, but I think that in the way that the games are here – I think they are more physical than in the Premier League.”
RON BOD
Manchester City ace Ferran Torres has revealed he looks to Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo as his physical and nutritional inspiration.
Torres reckons Ronaldo changed how footballers treat their bodies which has led him to get a personal trainer and nutritionist.
Speaking to El Desmarque, Torres said: “He [Ronaldo] is my point of reference.
He has changed football in terms of nutrition, taking care of yourself, investing in your body.
“This is a long-term process in which what you do today has repercussions for tomorrow. Football is more physical, and you have to be prepared.”
SPURS SLUR
Former Arsenal chief David Dein has revealed that Patrick Vieira’s first words in English was a Tottenham slur.
Dein brought Vieira to Arsenal in 1996 along with ex-boss Arsene Wenger.
And to get Vieira accustomed to life in London, Dein got the retired midfielder an English teacher to help the Frenchman master the language.
But Dein got a shock when he checked in on Vieira a few weeks later to see how he was getting on.
Dein recalled: “After a couple of weeks I went down to the dressing room and I said: ‘Patrick, can you speak something in English?’
“He said ‘yes Mr. Dein’. I said: ‘What can you say?’ He looked at me and he said: ‘Tottenham are [explicit].’
FEELING FRANK 
Frank Lampard s set to be appointed Norwich City’s new manager.
The Canaries sacked Daniel Farke on Saturday – just hours after he guided them to their first win of the season.
Lamps held conversations with the Carrow Road board on Monday and has now agreed to take over the Premier League’s bottom club.
It is his first job back in the dug-out since he was axed by Chelsea in January following his 18-month stint in charge at Stamford Bridge.
TEAR GERRKER
Steven Gerrard has bid farewell to Rangers with a heartfelt post to Instagram.
The Liverpool legend was confirmed as Aston Villa boss today after a successful three years north of the border.
n an emotional post to Instagram, Gerrard said: “I want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone associated with Glasgow Rangers, especially the fans, for the love and support you’ve all shown me during my time in Scotland.
“Winning “55” will always hold a special place in my heart – each and every one of you played a part in that and, believe me, there will be many more to come.
“I hope in time you can understand and accept my decision to move on but I honestly fell in love with the club and will always follow the team.
“Once a Ranger, always a Ranger #55”
FOOTBALL REVOLT
The Prem and other leading European leagues have joined forces with fan groups in a bid to block forced changes to football.
Supporters Direct Europe boss Antonia Hagemann said the tie up with the European Leagues umbrella group was a move to “save European football”.
The two sides agreed to work together to protect domestic football structures, governance of the international game and inclusion and diversity.
Jacco Swart, managing director of European Leagues, said: “Fans are a key stakeholder in football.
“It is a natural step to converge and work together to protect domestic football in the interest of all professional leagues and their clubs and fans across Europe.”
Hagemann added: “Fans and leagues share common principles and we now want to put them into action. This relationship is crucial. To save European football we all need to work together.”
HOPE UTD
Marcus Rashford says lack of education is to blame for the racist trolling he and other players get on social media.
Rashford was targeted along with Manchester United teammate Jadon Sancho and Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka after all three missed penalties in the Euros final shoot-out against Italy in the summer.
Rashford, said: “I think educating ourselves on, and championing other, cultures can only benefit our understanding. Discrimination usually stems from a lack of education. It’s a defence mechanism.
“Instead of stigmatising differences, we should be celebrating them. How boring would the world be if we were all the same?
“Books are a great source for us to highlight different characters and better understand background and journey.”
HOLIDALE
Aaron Ramsdale has revealed England’s heroes were treated to an incredible ‘lads holiday’ during their Euro 2020 campaign – including a private Ed Sheeran gig.
The Three Lions reached the final only to lose to Italy on penalties.
But Arsenal stopper Ramsdale, 23, has recalled the amazing treat day they enjoyed between their final group game against Czech Republic and last 16 win over Germany.
The England ace – pushing Jordan Pickford for the No1 jersey amid a red-hot run of form – revealed their St George’s training facility was turned into the perfect play area for big kids.
He even revealed the national team FaceTimed Tom Cruise before being treated to an advanced screening of Top Gun: Maverick.
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STEVEN GERRARD has been CONFIRMED as Aston Villa’s new manager after the departure of Dean Smith. The ex-Rangers boss has signed a two-and-a-half year deal with the Villains.
Meanwhile, his ex-midfield partner for England Frank Lampard looks set to be joining Norwich as their new manager, reports suggest.
We’ve also got all the latest on a potential transfer for Declan rice as well as updates from Chelsea, who are eyeing a swoop for Attila Szalai in January.
Get all the latest football news, updates and transfer gossip below…
‘MAIN CONCERN’
Arsenal legend Nigel Winterburn has urged the club’s board to back Mikel Arteta in the transfer market.
He told SunSport: “I think that the fans will always have a voice, particularly if they’re not happy with how things are being run behind the scenes.
“Arsenal are starting to invest a bit more money in the transfer market, they’ve certainly invested heavily this season.
“We have the owners there, we just need to make sure that we are starting to travel back in the right direction.
“We’ve fallen away from that top four, but now we need to go back in that direction.
“As long as Arteta has finances to keep improving the squad, then that would be my main concern.”
FEELING FRANK
Frank Lampard is set to be appointed Norwich City’s new manager.
The Canaries sacked Daniel Farke on Saturday – just hours after he guided them to their first win of the season.
Lamps held conversations with the Carrow Road board on Monday and has now agreed to take over the Premier League’s bottom club.
It is his first job back in the dug-out since he was axed by Chelsea in January following his 18-month stint in charge at Stamford Bridge.
The ex-Derby boss was linked with the Newcastle job before Eddie Howe’s appointment.

MAUR DIFFICULT
Mauricio Pochettino has raised some eyebrows by labelling Ligue 1 as the ‘most physical league in the world’.
The ex-Southampton and Spurs boss believes the football on the other side of the channel is tougher than the action in the Premier League.
Pochettino told getfootballnewsfrance: “My impression is that it is a very complicated league.
“The quality is there. I think it’s the most physical league in the world. I think the talent is amazing, and there are great coaches too.
“Every single game you can see all the teams have quality, have the capacity to win the games, never give up.
“I think it’s a very, very good league, and we are so happy to be here.
“I’m not saying that it’s a better league than the Premier League, but I think that in the way that the games are here – I think they are more physical than in the Premier League.”
RON BOD
Manchester City ace Ferran Torres has revealed he looks to Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo as his physical and nutritional inspiration.
Torres reckons Ronaldo changed how footballers treat their bodies which has led him to get a personal trainer and nutritionist.
Speaking to El Desmarque, Torres said: “He [Ronaldo] is my point of reference.
He has changed football in terms of nutrition, taking care of yourself, investing in your body.
“This is a long-term process in which what you do today has repercussions for tomorrow. Football is more physical, and you have to be prepared.”
SPURS SLUR
Former Arsenal chief David Dein has revealed that Patrick Vieira’s first words in English was a Tottenham slur.
Dein brought Vieira to Arsenal in 1996 along with ex-boss Arsene Wenger.
And to get Vieira accustomed to life in London, Dein got the retired midfielder an English teacher to help the Frenchman master the language.
But Dein got a shock when he checked in on Vieira a few weeks later to see how he was getting on.
Dein recalled: “After a couple of weeks I went down to the dressing room and I said: ‘Patrick, can you speak something in English?’
“He said ‘yes Mr. Dein’. I said: ‘What can you say?’ He looked at me and he said: ‘Tottenham are [explicit].’
FEELING FRANK 
Frank Lampard s set to be appointed Norwich City’s new manager.
The Canaries sacked Daniel Farke on Saturday – just hours after he guided them to their first win of the season.
Lamps held conversations with the Carrow Road board on Monday and has now agreed to take over the Premier League’s bottom club.
It is his first job back in the dug-out since he was axed by Chelsea in January following his 18-month stint in charge at Stamford Bridge.
TEAR GERRKER
Steven Gerrard has bid farewell to Rangers with a heartfelt post to Instagram.
The Liverpool legend was confirmed as Aston Villa boss today after a successful three years north of the border.
n an emotional post to Instagram, Gerrard said: “I want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone associated with Glasgow Rangers, especially the fans, for the love and support you’ve all shown me during my time in Scotland.
“Winning “55” will always hold a special place in my heart – each and every one of you played a part in that and, believe me, there will be many more to come.
“I hope in time you can understand and accept my decision to move on but I honestly fell in love with the club and will always follow the team.
“Once a Ranger, always a Ranger #55”
FOOTBALL REVOLT
The Prem and other leading European leagues have joined forces with fan groups in a bid to block forced changes to football.
Supporters Direct Europe boss Antonia Hagemann said the tie up with the European Leagues umbrella group was a move to “save European football”.
The two sides agreed to work together to protect domestic football structures, governance of the international game and inclusion and diversity.
Jacco Swart, managing director of European Leagues, said: “Fans are a key stakeholder in football.
“It is a natural step to converge and work together to protect domestic football in the interest of all professional leagues and their clubs and fans across Europe.”
Hagemann added: “Fans and leagues share common principles and we now want to put them into action. This relationship is crucial. To save European football we all need to work together.”
HOPE UTD
Marcus Rashford says lack of education is to blame for the racist trolling he and other players get on social media.
Rashford was targeted along with Manchester United teammate Jadon Sancho and Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka after all three missed penalties in the Euros final shoot-out against Italy in the summer.
Rashford, said: “I think educating ourselves on, and championing other, cultures can only benefit our understanding. Discrimination usually stems from a lack of education. It’s a defence mechanism.
“Instead of stigmatising differences, we should be celebrating them. How boring would the world be if we were all the same?
“Books are a great source for us to highlight different characters and better understand background and journey.”
HOLIDALE
Aaron Ramsdale has revealed England’s heroes were treated to an incredible ‘lads holiday’ during their Euro 2020 campaign – including a private Ed Sheeran gig.
The Three Lions reached the final only to lose to Italy on penalties.
But Arsenal stopper Ramsdale, 23, has recalled the amazing treat day they enjoyed between their final group game against Czech Republic and last 16 win over Germany.
The England ace – pushing Jordan Pickford for the No1 jersey amid a red-hot run of form – revealed their St George’s training facility was turned into the perfect play area for big kids.
He even revealed the national team FaceTimed Tom Cruise before being treated to an advanced screening of Top Gun: Maverick.
PLEASED AZEEZ
Arsenal star Alexandre Lacazette has praised Portsmouth loanee Miguel Azeez for scoring his debut goal for the club.
19-year-old Azeez, who’s on loan from Arsenal got on the scoresheet for Pompey against Crystal Palace’s under-21s, and took to Twitter to celebrate his achievement after the game.
Azeez posted “Win, goal, assist, last night.”
His goal caught the attention of Lacazette who chipped in with three smiling face emojis and love hearts.
SCOT THIS TIME
Scott McTominay will miss Scotland’s World Cup clash against Moldova tomorrow after picking up an injury.
It’s been revealed that the Manchester United midfielder has picked up a throat infection that will keep him out of the tie.
However, reports suggest that McTominay could be back in the Scotland squad by the weekend if he recovers.
McTominay’s absence will be a huge loss for Steve Clarke’s side as the 24-year-old scored the winning goal in Scotland’s previous World Cup tie last month against Israel.
NO RETURN
Dani Alves’ return to Barcelona is set to be BLOCKED by LaLiga chiefs as they do not believe the claim his salary will be ONE EURO.
The Brazilian full-back enjoyed eight supremely impressive years at the Nou Camp between 2008 and 2016.
And, despite the Catalan giants’ current financial crisis, they are keen to try and secure his return at the age of 38.
However, according to Esport 3, LaLiga are expected to refuse Alves’ second spell at Barcelona as they do not accept the club’s proposal that his wage will be just one euro.
The links with a second stint at Barca come two months after the ex-Juventus and PSG man had his Sao Paulo contract ripped up.
KOP24
Steven Gerrard has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract at Aston Villa.
The former Rangers boss, 41, was confirmed as Villa’s new manager on Thursday morning.
He has put pen to paper on a contract which could see him stay at Villa Park until the summer of 2024, according to Sky Sports’ Andrew Dickson.
Coincidentally, that is also when Jurgen Klopp’s contract expires at Liverpool.
First Gerrard will have to impress with Villa after they invested heavily in the squad last summer.
SIGN POGBA
Liverpool legend Steve McManaman has urged Real Madrid to sign Manchester United ace Paul Pogba.
Pogba’s contract runs out next summer so McManaman reckons the Frenchman won’t be a gamble for Los Blancos.
And the 28-year-old will also bring a fresh pair of legs to Real’s ageing midfielder, according to McManaman.
The ex-Real ace told Horseracing.net: “It’s an easy move for Real Madrid to take him. You’re getting him on a free so you’re really not taking much of a gamble.
“So you take into account what you have in the team -they’ve got Luka Modric who’s 36, Toni Kroos is into his thirties, Casemiro will be 30 in February.
“That’s what you’re looking at. Of course you’ve got a number of players in and around the squad as well. I don’t think it would be a big issue to bring Pogba in.”
NOT HAPPY
Virgil van Dijk has declared war on Arsene Wenger – insisting: Your World Cup plans will wreck players’ health.
And the Liverpool defender said he and his Kop teammates will hold showdown talks with the former Arsenal boss.
VVD said: “A meeting is planned for the near future between Liverpool players, including myself, and Arsene Wenger.
“It is to do with the plan to stage the World Cup finals every two years, and we will give our opinions as players.
“I think that when senior players from Liverpool and other clubs give their opinions, the authorities have to listen to us.
“The numbers of matches are piling up. On the one hand, playing in games is the greatest thing we can do.
“But we also need to take a good look at players’ health and safety, and the gap between the end of one season and the start of another.
“That is in order that everybody can recover properly.”
TYL HIM UP
Arsenal are keen on a move for RB Leipzig’s American sensation Tyler Adams.
The versatile 22-year-old has a reported release clause of just £32.25million.
And according to German outlet SportBILD the Gunners are keeping a close eye on the midfielder.
Arsenal were linked with Adams in the summer but after splashing the cash on the likes of Ben White and Aaron Ramsdale a move never materialised.
However Mikel Arteta and Emirates chiefs are now eyeing another swoop for their long-term target.
SAK SPEED
Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has teased England teammate Kyle Walker about being faster than him.
Walker posted an image of himself and Saka on Instagram, and it seemed they were competing for who was the fastest.
He captioned the post: “Had to give him a head start!”
Saka posted in the comment section and joked that he beat his national teammate in the race.
He commented: “You lost bro” with laughing emojis.
STEVIE GLEE
Steven Gerrard has officially been named Aston Villa’s new manager – with the former Rangers chief to be backed in the January transfer window.
The 114-cap former England midfielder has replaced Dean Smith as manager after his sacking following a FIFTH consecutive Prem defeat at Southampton.
The Kop icon has signed a two-and-a-half year deal at Villa Park and will be in charge for the first time next Saturday at home to Brighton.
Gerrard said: “Aston Villa is a club with a rich history and tradition in English football and I am immensely proud to become its new Head Coach.
“In my conversations with Nassef, Wes and the rest of the Board, it was apparent how ambitious their plans are for the club and I am looking forward to helping them achieve their aims.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everybody associated with Glasgow Rangers for giving me the opportunity to manage such an iconic football club. Helping them secure a record-breaking 55th league title will always hold a special place in my heart.
“I would like to wish the players, staff and supporters the very best for the future.”
ATT WILL DO
Chelsea have reportedly agreed a £20million fee to sign Fenerbahce defender Attila Szalai.
According to CNN Turk, he will sign a six-year contract at Stamford Bridge and join up with Thomas Tuchel’s squad in January.
Szalai, dubbed the Hungarian Virgil van Dijk, is expected to earn an annual salary of around £3.4m.
He will likely be the eventual successor to 36-year-old Thiago Silva as the Brazilian’s contract comes to an end in the summer.
Szalai’s valuation has soared since joining Super Lig giants Fenerbache from Cypriots Apollon Limassol in January – for just £1.8m.
TCHOU ON THAT
Chelsea are monitoring Monaco star Aurelien Tchouameni but several clubs are interested in the youngster, according to reports.
Monaco are now looking for £42million to let him leave but that fee could rise once again, according to Tuttosport.
And Chelsea could be rivalled in their transfer bid by Juventus, who have reportedly entered the race to sign the 21-year-old.
Liverpool, Manchester City and Real Madrid are also said to be keen on Tchouameni.
With more than two-and-a-half years left to run on his contract, Monaco possess a good deal of negotiating power.
And given multiple clubs want Tchouameni, the French outfit could use that to drive up their asking price even further.
GOING FOR GAZ
Antonio Conte wants to bring Gareth Bale back to Tottenham for a third spell, according to reports.
The Welshman’s contract expires in the summer but there is a chance Spurs may move in January, according to Spanish journalist Eduardo Inda.
He told El Chiringuito TV: “Daniel Levy would like to take a Real Madrid player who is always injured.
“He wanted to sign Eden Hazard, but Conte has told him ‘no’ because he knows him from when he trained at Chelsea and says that he has little intensity and that he is not a very hard worker.
“The most striking thing is the player that Conte has asked Levy to take him to London. He is Gareth Bale.
“Bale ends his contract at the end of the season, but in winter he would not be free.”
NOT HAPPY
Gary Neville has slammed Premier League bosses for decision to not support homeless charity Shelter.
Top-flight clubs were hoping to back Shelter’s #NoHomeKit initiative by all wearing their change kits on Boxing Day.
However, while the Football League has confirmed their support, the Premier League has said it goes against their rules.
Their stance infuriated Neville who raged on Twitter: “Imagine refusing a request to raise money and awareness for homelessness.”
But the ex-United star reckons Prem sides can change the league’s bosses mind and force them to ‘u-turn’ like prime minister Boris Johnson.
Neville added: “A Johnson-like U-turn on its way if the clubs push hard!”
HOWE AMBITION
Eddie Howe has revealed that he felt Newcastle was the perfect fit for him upon becoming their new boss.
Howe believes his and the Toon’s ambitions align and he can’t wait to get going on Tyneside.
speaking at his first press conference, he said: “Everything just felt right.
“The pull of the club is huge, the size and the history of the club and obviously the new ambitious plans. I just thought it was the perfect fit for me.”
SHAW’S IDOL
Manchester United ace Luke Shaw has revealed that ex-Chelsea star Ashley Cole was his idol growing up.
Cole was the Blues’ No.1 left-back when Shaw was a kid, and the sight of him bombing up and down the wing at Stamford Bridge was a huge inspiration for the United defender.
Shaw told Fan Nation: “With Ashley Cole, I looked up to him. He was one of the best left-backs in the world for a number of years.
“(He) obviously played for England and I used to go to Chelsea games when I was younger and watch him and with me being a left-back.
“I always looked up to him and wanted to be like him because if I could be anything like him then you know you are doing something right.”
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