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MLB’s winter meetings continued on Tuesday, as more deals were struck and rumors continued to fly.

The blockbuster news on Tuesday was the Dodgers signing Mets All-Star closer Edwin Díaz to a massive, three-year, $69 million deal. L.A.’s bullpen was a mess in 2025, and last offseason’s big signing, Tanner Scott, was straight up awful. The team’s closer went 1–4 with a 4.74 ERA, a 1.26 WHIP, 60 strikeouts against 18 walks in 57 innings, and posted a whopping 10 blown saves. Theoretically, signing Díaz should correct that mistake.

That was the big headline on Tuesday, but there are plenty of rumors circulating around the winter meetings. Several of the biggest we’re hearing are below.

Red Sox could look to Bo Bichette

The Red Sox want to bring free agent third baseman Alex Bregman back, but he has drawn interest from across the league. If he opted to bolt for a new home, it would leave Boston with a sizable hole in the infield. Enter Bo Bichette. Rumors are picking up steam that the Red Sox could turn to Bichette if Bregman walks. While the 27-year-old shortstop’s defensive metrics are awful, he could man the spot for a few years with Marcelo Mayer sliding over to third base.

Bichette is coming off an outstanding season for the Blue Jays in which he slashed .311/.357/.483, and set a full-season personal best with a wRC+ of 134, while producing 3.8 fWAR in 139 games. He’s a hitting machine and would fit well with a young Red Sox core ready to start making the next steps toward contention. Toronto won’t let him walk without a fight, but Boston would be an excellent fit.

Mets willing to trade David Peterson

The Mets watched Díaz leave for the Dodgers on Tuesday, and there’s another All-Star pitcher who might not be back in 2026. The team’s president of baseball operations, David Stearns, has said there is currently a “pretty active” trade market, and ’s Tim Britton and Will Sammon are reporting New York would consider parting with starter David Peterson in the right deal.

The 30-year-old lefty made his first All-Star team in 2025 and went 9–6, with a 4.22 ERA, a 1.37 WHIP, and 150 strikeouts against 65 walks in 168 2/3 innings. That followed a 2024 campaign in which he went 10–3 with a 2.90 ERA in 121 innings. Peterson is under team control through the 2026 season before hitting free agency.

Given his production and what should be an affordable salary (projected to be under $8 million) in his final year of arbitration, Peterson wouldn’t come cheap. The Mets need rotation help, so it would likely take a decent amount to pry him loose. That said, New York needs to find an outfielder to replace the departed Brandon Nimmo and may need to find a replacement for Pete Alonso at first base. Moving a valuable player to fill those holes might be the route Stearns opts to take.

Ketel Marte trade speculation continues

The Diamondbacks continue to field calls on second baseman Ketel Marte. The 32-year-old three-time All-Star is one of the big names available on the trade block this offseason, but he’ll fetch a high price if he is moved. He’s coming off a 2025 season in which he slashed .283/.376/.517, with 28 home runs, 72 RBIs, a wRC+ of 145, and 4.6 fWAR. He was also criticized for sitting out too many games.

For Arizona to move Marte, it would need a massive return. He’s owed $102.5 million over the next six years, which is an incredibly affordable contract for a player with his ability. He’s a consistent, All-Star-level performer, and while he’s leaving his prime, his deal is manageable.

Ken Rosenthal is reporting that the Red Sox are interested, along with three unnamed teams.

Dodgers not “likely” to move Teoscar Hernandez

While they have a mostly complete roster, the Dodgers are looking to rework some things this offseason. They kicked off that effort on Tuesday by signing All-Star closer Edwin Díaz, and they almost certainly won’t be done making changes. One potential deal seems to be off the table, though.

L.A. general manager Brandon Gomes said it “doesn’t feel likely” that outfielder Teoscar Hernández will be moved. After he helped lead them to a World Series title in 2024, the Dodgers re-signed Hernández to a three-year, $66 million deal last offseason. The 33-year-old proceeded to take a step back. In 2025, he slashed .247/.284/.454, with 25 home runs and 89 RBIs, while posting a career-worst wRC+ (102), and only producing 0.6 fWAR. All of those numbers were significantly lower than those he put up in 2024. It doesn’t help that he’s also a terrible defender in right field.

Hernández is expensive for an aging one-dimensional player coming off a down year, but the lack of right-handed bats available in free agency may have elevated his value. Still, it’s a big investment for a risky return. On the flip side, the Dodgers may opt to keep Hernández simply for the sake of continuity. He fits in the clubhouse, and if he underperforms again, the team is more than capable of paying to find a replacement.

L.A. is looking for another outfielder this offseason, and moving Hernández would necessitate finding a second. It’s likely he’ll stay with the team heading into 2026.

عاد ماركو أسينسيو، نجم نادي ريال مدريد السابق وفناربخشة الحالي، للحديث عن رحيله من صفوف الفريق الملكي، موضحًا أنه ليس نادمًا على هذا القرار.

أسينسيو وقع مع ريال مدريد عام 2015 قادمًا من ريال مايوركا، حيث استمر اللاعب لسنوات عديدة مع الفريق الملكي، قبل الرحيل إلى باريس سان جيرمان وعدم تجديد عقده مع الميرنجي.

وغادر أسينسيو ريال مدريد عقب نهاية موسم 2023، حيث لم يجدد اللاعب عقده ليوقع مع باريس سان جيرمان في صفقة انتقال حر.

ولم ينجح أسينسيو مع باريس سان جيرمان، حيث وقع على سبيل الإعارة في بداية العام مع نادي أستون فيلا، ومن ثم الانضمام بشكل نهائي إلى فناربخشة.

وأكد أسينسيو في مقابلة مع صحيفة ماركا، أنه لم يرحل عن صفوف ريال مدريد بسبب المال.

اقرأ أيضًا .. “عضلات بلا مهارات”.. صحفي إسباني يوضح نقطة ضعف ريال مدريد الحقيقية

وقال أسينسيو عن رحيله عن ريال مدريد: ”لا أندم على ذلك، ففي عامي الأخير فزت باللقب الذي كنت أفتقده مع ريال مدريد وهو كأس الملك”.

وأضاف أسينسيو في حديثه: ”يجب أن تعرف متى تغادر، شعرت بمودة كبيرة من الجماهير، من فلورنتينو بيريز، ومن المدرب، لكنني شعرت أن الوقت قد حان للرحيل”.

وأوضح: ”لم يكن قرار رحيلي عن ريال مدريد رياضيًا أو ماليًا، بل قرارًا شخصيًا، أردت وضع أهداف جديدة لأنني كنت بحاجة إلى تغيير في حياتي ومسيرتي المهنية، سيبقى ريال مدريد دائمًا بيتي، لأنني مدريديستا منذ صغري، لكنني شعرت أن الوقت قد حان لتجربة شيء جديد”.

وعن رئيس ريال مدريد، فلورنتينو بيريز، أردف أسينسيو: “مع فلورنتينو، والآن نتحدث عن الوداع، عشنا لحظة جميلة وحميمة. كان وداعًا رائعًا في الملعب ولكن قبل المباراة الأخيرة لي مع ريال مدريد قضيت لحظة جميلة مع فلورنتينو على انفراد، وأتذكرها بشغف كبير”.

واختتم أسينسيو: ”كنا وحدنا أنا وبيريز في غرفة واحدة، في لحظة خاصة جدًا نتحدث عن الحياة، عن كيفية انتقالي لريال مدريد، عن عائلاتنا، كان الأمر مذهلًا. لطالما جمعتني علاقة مميزة بفلورنتينو، لطالما عاملني معاملة حسنة للغاية، وهو شخص عزيز جدًا علي”.

A fresh timeline for when Sheffield Wednesday’s takeover could be completed has now been shared after several interested parties presented proof of funds worth £50m.

It’s been a chaotic couple of weeks for the Owls, who finally got the chance to show nightmare owner Dejphon Chansiri the door as he took them into administration. Since then, fans have flocked to the club shop and to Hillsborough in support of Henrik Pedersen’s side as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Norwich City in midweek.

Pedersen shared his pride in Sheffield Wednesday after a well-earned point, telling reporters: “We had courage to play today, it’s the best offensive game we have played this season. We also created big chances after the goal, so proud of the performance and we go in the right direction.

“The first half defensive[ly] we were strong, we were solid. The players are working so hard and I think they deserve better today, but we have to learn, we have to train more. But the positive thing now is we’re creating chances.”

Now on -4 points in the Championship after being hit with a 12-point deduction following their administration, survival seems almost impossible for the Owls, who are paying the price in full for Chansiri’s ownership.

Nonetheless, the good times are at least on the horizon again. The Chansiri era is over and new ownership is on its way. Just who that new owner will be is the big question.

Names such as Mike Ashley and John Textor have both been mentioned in the last week or so, but it remains to be seen whether either of the former Premier League owners make their move to buy the club.

Reporter shares fresh Sheffield Wednesday takeover timeline

The good news for those at Hillsborough is that they may not have to wait long before a new era commences. According to The Star’s Alex Miller, Sheffield Wednesday could have their takeover completed by November 23 when they square off against rivals Sheffield United.

What’s more, at least one well-funded American group has reportedly progressed to the furthest stage of the takeover process in what is a major boost for the Owls.

BBC reporter shares latest £50m step that 3 Sheffield Wednesday candidates have just taken

Things are looking up for the Owls.

ByTom Cunningham Oct 31, 2025

Co-administrator and managing partner at Begbies Traynor, Kris Wigfield also provided a positive update on the takeover process in the build-up to the Norwich game.

Although relegation seemingly looms for the Owls, everything is pointing towards positive days ahead which will feature new owners.

John McEvoy: Who is the American billionaire looking to buy Sheffield Wednesday?

England dominated till lunch with bat and ball, but India reversed the momentum from there and didn’t look back

Vithushan Ehantharajah01-Aug-20251:45

Prasidh: I’ve been picked to do a job

Stumps Now this, party people, is what it is all about. We had to wait until the last Friday of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, but here it was. The best day’s play so far has, at this juncture, put India in control, 75 for 2 in their second innings, leading by 52.That it was day two of this fifth and final Test added to the spectacle. The jeopardy of it all felt keenly, a slalom through angst and nerves. Gus Atkinson’s fourth five-wicket haul after two months out closed India’s first innings for 224. And the same man delivered the final meaningful act, removing B Sai Sudharsan lbw, the last of Friday’s 15 wickets to fall.In between, England had been dismissed for 247, a lead of 23 that looked like being a whole lot more when Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett blitzed 92 from 77 deliveries. But it was soon after that point, from lunch with England 109 for 1 and only trailing by 115, that India stirred.Related

• When India's wise guys got together and said 'so what'

• 'That was the plan' – Prasidh on verbal duel with Root

• Dropped catches leave England 'frustrated' and 'disappointed'

• India get a thrilling dose of the Zak Crawley experience

A rousing middle session from Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, 4 for 86 and 4 for 62, respectively, instigated and then completed a collapse that saw all nine wickets – Chris Woakes couldn’t bat – fall for 155. Only Harry Brook provided another meaningful contribution with 53. And if there was any doubt that they had ceded the advantage, it was confirmed in a final 16-over session.Yashasvi Jaiswal, pugnacious and still alive with 51 not out from 49 deliveries, was dropped twice. First on 20 by Brook, second on 40 by sub-fielder Liam Dawson. And though Crawley got away with his miss of Sai Sudharsan on seven, the vibe was of an already stretched team desperately reaching out for a game that may drift beyond them at some point on Saturday.When it was in England’s grasp, they could do no wrong. They made light work of what remained of India’s first innings, which resumed on 204 for 6.3:42

‘A workhorse, a man to have in the team’

After news prior to the start of play that Woakes was ruled out of the rest of the Test with a suspected dislocated shoulder, Atkinson, on his home ground, took it upon himself to take three as the final four came in just 34 deliveries.Josh Tongue made the first key incision, finishing with 3 for 53, albeit with an approach so chaotic he’d have been struck off if he was a surgeon. His first over, opening from the Vauxhall End, went for nine, but he was able to remove Karun Nair for 57 in his second. A sharp delivery that nipped into the stumps – Nair no doubt expected something short and wide either side of them – pinned the right-hand batter on the back leg. Plumb in front, Nair took one of India’s three reviews with him.Washington Sundar should have assumed the responsibility at that point as an elongated tail became exposed. But he fell five deliveries later, waltzing into a short-ball trap, heaving Atkinson to deep square-leg, where Jamie Overton sprinted in to take a smart catch.Zak Crawley scored his third half-century of the series•AFP via Getty Images

Atkinson would then skittle Siraj before Prasidh felt for a delivery outside off, completing a collapse of four for six in 18 balls. It left Atkinson with an average of 21, the fourth best for an England seamer with 50 or more dismissals, and the second-best strike rate, ever, at 34.9, for those who have taken 60 wickets.Then came Crawley and Duckett for their familiar double-act. The latter led the charge, reverse-pulling Akash Deep over the cordon, then “conventionally” ramping Siraj into the sponge for the first two sixes of the match. An attempted third did not just bring about Duckett’s end for 43, as he scuffed through to wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel, but an arm around the shoulder of the batter from the bowler.It looked a mix of jest and respect very much, though it did subsequently trigger a shift in the attitude of this match. And when Shubman Gill gathered his players on the edge of the field after the lunch break, there was a sense things were going to be very different. That it suddenly mattered more than before.1:44

‘Disappointed, but it is what it is’ – Trescothick on dropped catches

An eight-over spell from Siraj read 3 for 35 and knocked out the engine room: stand-in skipper Ollie Pope, the prized wicket of Joe Root. and Jacob Bethell seen off in the space of 12 overs of play.All three were found wanting by the right-arm quick’s late movement off the surface, with the slightest lack of bounce, from the Micky Stewart Members’ Pavilion End. Pope’s required an India review – despite striking the back pad right in front – before Root used one in vain, for 29. Bethell, making his first Test appearance since the New Zealand tour at the end of last year, simply walked for six.Maybe Prasidh could claim an assist for Root’s wicket, having riled up the No. 2 on the all-time Test runs chart. The tall quick was clearly in a confrontational mood, but was vindicated by the results elicited.Things got heated up between Joe Root and Prasidh Krishna•Getty Images

He threw a ball at Crawley upon fielding in his follow-through – the pair exchanged an immediate apology and acceptance, respectively. And he was soon in the book when Crawley, on 64, failed to clear Ravindra Jadeja at midwicket.The shot was in keeping with Crawley’s work up to that point; boundary heavy – 48 runs in boundaries in the 42 deliveries it took him to reach a third half-century in the series, and his 24th 50-plus score overall. But there was a degree of tempestuousness in the stroke. The way the opener struck down the ground and even over cover was calculated. This felt like a shot at revenge.And so, once Root arrived, Prasidh cajoled him into a back and forth which had England’s No. 4 seething. Prasidh then relieved Siraj from his end and took India through to tea with two wickets in five deliveries. Jamie Smith nicked high to KL Rahul at second slip and Overton was trapped lbw for what proved to be the final ball of the session.1:28

Bangar: Ominous signs from Jaiswal

Atkinson could and perhaps should have been more conservative and stuck with Brook, instead of holing out to mid-on for Prasidh’s fourth. But Tongue held on to allow Brook to perform marshalling duties. And though the Yorkshireman refused singles and failed to find acceptable gaps for even-number runs to keep the strike, he still ticked over to 50 from 57 deliveries.The best of his six boundaries up to that point was a sole six, overhead-flipping Siraj into the stands just in front of the dressing rooms. But Siraj would get the last laugh, as Brook’s open face offered a toe onto his own stumps.With play extended through to 7.30pm with the extra half-hour, England had the chance to make things awkward. But they found themselves immediately on the back foot as Jaiswal raced out of the gates, taking 12 off Atkinson’s second over with a punched on-drive, a guide beyond third slip, and a lash through point.1:58

Bangar on Crawley-Duckett: Haven’t seen batting of that quality

Without Woakes, Tongue opened the bowling, with a recalibrated radar that made his seven overs more consistently probing, without compromising on his knack for worldies. Rahul was undone by lift outside off, flirting and guiding off the face low to Root.But Tongue deserved more, and only Dawson will know why he was not wearing his shades instead of perching them on the top of his cap. The swish from Jaiswal seemed to come to him right out of either the floodlights or the setting sun, cannoning into his upper chest via his chin, having burst through his hands.The deflation in the stands, closely followed by elation from the Indian fans, spoke of how the tables had turned. And that elation grew to boastful cheers when nightwatcher Akash Deep worked his first ball, from Atkinson, through midwicket for four.He would face one more delivery before the umpires decided the light was not good enough to continue. Saturday will be brighter, and seemingly more so for India.

Youngster Diego Leon may “not have to wait much longer” for his senior Manchester United debut.

Despite only turning 18 in April 2025, Leon had already made over 30 appearances in senior football with Cerro Porteno in his native Paraguay. Since joining the Red Devils in the summer, Leon has played exclusively for the Man United Under-21s, where he has caught the eye with his performances.

Leon is evidently an exciting talent and Man United, no doubt, will aim to avoid a repeat of what happened with Alvaro Carreras. The teenager has been in several matchday squads for Ruben Amorim’s side, who have acquired 10 points from an available 12 in their previous four games.

Reports from Leon’s home continent of South America, as per The Peoples Person, have suggested that the wing-back could soon be handed his senior debut at Old Trafford.

Leon is highly thought of at Carrington

To be part of a Premier League squad in any capacity is a sign that Amorim has been impressed by Leon. As per journalist Christian Martin, the Paraguayan is a firm part of the club’s plans going forward.

Having signed in January, Patrick Dorgu is yet to make a strong impression for Man United. Formerly of Lecce, the left-sided player has not started a game for the Red Devils since a 3-1 loss against Brentford at the end of September.

Diogo Dalot has been starting as the left-wing-back in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system since Dorgu was dropped. Naturally suited to the right-hand side, Dalot has also struggled in the position and given the injury troubles that both Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia have faced in recent years, Leon could well soon find himself involved in a first-team game.

Reportedly, Leon will “get his chance sooner rather than later.” Top flight football in Paraguay is, of course, a different level to the English Premier League, but Leon has already played consistent senior football, a rarity for a player of such a young age.

When exactly Leon will receive his chance remains to be seen, but given the impressions he has been making since arriving in the summer, it surely can not be long until the Paraguay international makes his bow for the Red Devils.

Man Utd offered chance to sign striker for bargain in January

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Estabelecido como novo goleiro titular do Corinthians, Carlos Miguel iniciou conversas com para renovar seu vínculo com o clube. O atual contrato do jogador é válido até dezembro de 2025, mas a diretoria planeja aumentar a multa do atleta, que recebeu sondagens no início da temporada, e se proteger de eventuais propostas.

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Isso porque a multa rescisória de Carlos Miguel para clubes do exterior será reduzida de forma drástica em 2025. O valor, que é fixado em 50 milhões de euros até dezembro, cai para apenas 4 milhões de euros a partir da virada do ano.

– Carlos Miguel tinha um contrato que a multa até dezembro era 50 milhões de euros. Em janeiro, se torna 4 milhões de euros. Nunca vi isso. Já chamamos empresário, Carlos quer ter sequência, conversei com ele. Certeza que não teremos problema – revelou o presidente Augusto Melo, em entrevista ao canal “Cross”.

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No Corinthians desde 2021, Carlos Miguel recebeu sua primeira sequência como titular sob o comando de António Oliveira. O camisa 22 venceu a disputa com Cássio, barrado após a partida contra o Argentinos Juniors, pela Copa Sul-Americana e que, posteriormente, acertou sua ida ao Cruzeiro.

Ao todo, o goleiro possui 22 partidas pela equipe profissional do Corinthians, sendo metade delas nesta temporada, e apenas duas derrotas.

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CorinthiansFutebol NacionalMercado

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A Confederação Brasileira de Futebol (CBF) adiou o confronto entre Chapecoense x Ponte Preta, que seria realizado neste domingo (19), pela Série B. O motivo foi o mau tempo, pois o elenco da Macaca não conseguiu embarcar para a região sul do país.

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A delegação da equipe de Campinas já estava no Aeroporto de Viracopos quando foi informada sobre o cancelamento do voo para Chapecó. Com isso, a partida foi remarcada para segunda-feira (20< às 19h (de Brasília), na Arena Condá.

– Por conta do mau tempo no aeroporto de Chapecó (SC), a delegação da Ponte Preta não conseguiu embarcar na manhã deste sábado (18) para a partida com a Chapecoense que seria realizada neste domingo (19). A partida foi remarcada pela CBF para segunda-feira (20), às 19h – diz a nota do clube.

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Os outros confrontos referentes à sexta rodada da Série B seguem inalterados, uma vez que a competição não foi paralisada.

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ChapecoensePonte PretaSérie B

Fast bowlers confirm readiness for roles in Australia this winter as champions showcase strength in depth

Vithushan Ehantharajah15-Sep-2025, are more amenable to a reduction, though their members seem minded to disagree.The folly of it all is that this final also serves as a reminder of the wrangle for sporting integrity. This is the first time Surrey and Nottinghamshire have met this season, the pitfall of squaring a 10-team top division into 14 fixtures. Should they both end the season in the top-two spots, it would be the fourth season in a row that county champions and runners-up have squared up just the once.It is a quirk of circumstance given the previous three runners-up have all been different (Lancashire 2022, Essex 2023, Hampshire 2024). And a reflection of Surrey’s dominance and robust squad depth that they’ve prevailed in each of those previous seasons – traits which are no less apparent coming into the final eight days of this summer.Gus Atkinson, now England’s more than Surrey’s, was typically incisive for his 4 for 41. He is likely to be utilised as a load-bearing bowler for the winter’s Ashes, and got the ball rolling with the early removal of Nottinghamshire skipper Haseeb Hameed. But it was Matthew Fisher, brought in to cover for Atkinson’s international duties (and, as it turned out, absences through injury) who ended up leading the line with 5 for 61, his first five-wicket haul for Surrey after four previous such hauls for Yorkshire.Gus Atkinson made the breakthrough in the morning session•Getty Images for Surrey CCC

Fisher’s move down from Headingley to south London was a familiar story – a player hoping a new challenge will reignite a career that had looks to have struck a ceiling. By and large, it has, even if the numbers do not quite tell that story.It took nine innings for Fisher to reach double-figures for his new club, at the end of June, despite stitching together some good spells in that period. His efforts spoke of the promise that had brought about his one and only Test cap, on an unforgiving Bridgetown pitch and in even more unforgiving circumstances, given that he featured on that trip as a (premature) replacement for Stuart Broad and James Anderson.Now that that pair have finally left the scene, the likes of Atkinson and Nottinghamshire quick Josh Tongue have shunted Fisher down the pecking order, to the extent his winter remains free. Could a Lions spot on this winter’s tour of Australia be in the offing? As England look for insurance with their quicks, and with Brendon McCullum confirming that that trip will play a key back-up role for the Ashes, it would make a lot of sense.Fisher was undoubtedly Surrey’s best with the Kookaburra ball – more so than South Australian Dan Worrall who was reared on them – and has added consistency and endurance to his naturally hard length and knack of challenging both edges of the bat.He was originally introduced after 20 overs as the fifth bowler used, by which point Nottinghamshire had made it to 51 for 1. After a five-over spell from the Vauxhall End, he switched to the Micky Stewart Pavillion End and earned a much-needed breakthrough ten balls later.Profitting from extra juice from that end, Fisher went wide on the crease from around the wicket, angling into Freddie McCann then leaving him, clipping the edge on the way. A second leftie was sent back soon after when Ben Slater, composed for his 50 from 95 deliveries, fell victim to a better version of the McCann delivery; fuller, straighter, leaving Slater powerless while doing the needful of protecting his off stump just in case.Those dismissals were the first two of the final eight to fall for just 142, but the collapse felt avoidable. Joe Clarke had played engagingly for 29 before needlessly chasing a wide delivery from Atkinson with an angled bat. Brett Hutton’s unbeaten 30, while motivated by an imminent end to Nottinghamshire’s first innings, demonstrated that the surface still rewarded application, having last been used against Somerset at the end of April.South African keeper-batter Kyle Verreynne was slowly compiling before Fisher, tighter to the stumps, nipped one into middle from an initial line outside off, for a plumb lbw. Though he did receive a bit of tap as Nottinghamshire swung from the hip in pursuit of bonus points – Hutton deposited him over square leg for the innings’ only six – rewards duly came. Tongue’s booming drive brought a fifth catch for Ben Foakes, before Pennington’s wild hack left his front shin unguarded for a second leg-before.Fisher barely celebrated, jarring his right knee as he turned sharply to appeal to the umpire. He soon shook that off, leading the team back into the dressing room, ball aloft. Whatever is to come in the County Championship, both this season and next, Fisher’s present and immediate future looks far more assured.

Leeds United have to win their next Premier League clash away at Nottingham Forest otherwise the Whites will be plunged even deeper into relegation trouble.

Indeed, Daniel Farke’s men now sit precariously above the drop zone after a pitiful 3-0 loss at the hands of Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday, with the five-point gap between themselves and Forest shaved to just two points if Sean Dyche’s side gets the better of the West Yorkshire outfit.

To further pile on the worry, Dyche also has six career wins under his belt as a manager when facing the Whites, with Leeds also winless – and goalless – on the road since a 3-1 success against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Farke will need to see an immediate reaction from this devastating defeat on the South Coast, with several of his summer recruits potentially being dropped, despite many making positive starts, away from the loss at the Amex.

Why Leeds' summer business must be questioned

Across the ranks, not a single player could trudge off at the end of the 3-0 loss to Fabian Hurzeler’s Seagulls, satisfied with their efforts.

Not even their marquee signing, Noah Okafor, is immune to criticism.

The tricky number 19 did try his best to unlock a stern home side with five successful dribbles. But, former Leeds player Jon Newsome has harshly called the ex-AC Milan winger a “passenger” for how easily he can give up the ball, and that was the case, again, versus Hurzeler’s hosts when ceding possession a costly 19 times.

Moreover, Dominic Calvert-Lewin could also find himself dropped up top after another goalless showing passed him by, with just one goal still next to his name since leaving Everton behind in the summer. He arguably has to be the most questionable signing of the summer, even if he did arrive on a free transfer.

Central defender Jaka Bijol might also be made to sit out after a two-game stint in the first team, with Pascal Struijk perhaps the most logical replacement, as the £15m summer recruit failed to win a single tackle, and just one duel, as Brighton ran the hopeless away side ragged all afternoon.

Despite the hosts’ blistering nature, Bijol and the rest of the backline did make it very straightforward for Diego Gomez to kickstart his brace, when he was left in acres of room to tap home his first effort of the day for 2-0.

Farke really could ring the changes for the crunch tie at Forest, therefore, with one summer signing also at risk of being cut from the German’s starting XI.

The bold selection Farke could make

It hasn’t been exclusively doom and gloom all season long in West Yorkshire, with some positive performances potentially standing Farke and Co. in good stead to beat the drop.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

The aforementioned 3-1 away win at Wolves, in particular, saw everything click as new signings Anton Stach, Calvert-Lewin, and Okafor were all amongst the goals.

Gabriel Gudmundsson also put in a sterling effort against the now managerless Old Gold after joining from Lille in July.

Indeed, Leeds-based social media account The Leeds Press hailed the Swede as an asset that “gives everything” after the Wolves win, as seen in him registering eight clearances and winning three duels to keep the Molineux hosts at bay.

With 3.5 ball recoveries also averaged across his ten Premier League games, on top of two big chances being created, it felt as if Leeds had hit the jackpot on a perfect Junior Firpo replacement on the left flank.

Journalist James Marshment even boldly stated in late September that he has been “one of the best left-backs in the Premier League this season”. At just £10m, he had certainly proved himself to be a bargain.

Unfortunately for the Sweden regular, though, he put in a horror-show performance on the South Coast, as a rapid Yankuba Minteh turned him inside out all match.

Minutes played

90

Goals scored

0

Assists

0

Touches

72

Accurate passes

35/42 (83%)

Possession lost

16x

Dribbled past

2x

Tackles won

1/2

Total duels won

7/12

The strong and resilient full-back that had bounced back from his own-goal at Fulham in style was nowhere to be seen against the Seagulls.

He was dribbled past twice as a weak member of Farke’s defence, on top of also falling victim to an Okafor-like display, with possession given up 16 times.

James Justin could well get the nod to come in for Gudmundsson at the City Ground, therefore.

It is unlikely to be the only alteration, as Farke attempts to pick a refreshed side that can halt Leeds’ shambolic offerings on the road.

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1 ByKelan Sarson Nov 4, 2025

After suffering a brutal ankle injury against Bayern Munich that left fans fearing the worst, Morocco’s captain Achraf Hakimi may yet rise in time for the Africa Cup of Nations. Coach Walid Regragui has voiced unwavering faith in his “irreplaceable” right-back, insisting Hakimi’s recovery powers and spirit could defy medical timelines.

Diaz's tackle dampens AFCON hopes for Morocco

When Hakimi collapsed in agony after Luis Diaz’s lunging tackle during PSG’s Champions League clash with Bayern, fans feared the worst. The moment silenced the Parc des Princes and sent shockwaves through Rabat and Casablanca. Hakimi, one of PSG’s most consistent performers this season with three goals and seven assists was visibly distraught as he was carried off.

Medical examinations revealed a severe sprain in his left ankle, involving partial damage to the femoral syndesmosis and deltoid ligaments. Though PSG confirmed that surgery wouldn’t be required, the estimated six-to-eight-week recovery window instantly cast doubt on his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations which is scheduled to begin December 21 this year in Morocco.

For a player who has started majority of PSG’s games this season, the timing couldn’t be worse. PSG’s full-back line, already weakened by injuries to Nuno Mendes and Ousmane Dembele, now faced another blow. But the bigger concern was for Morocco, their captain and leader was suddenly in doubt for the country’s most important tournament in nearly half a century.

Amid rising panic, Morocco coach Regragui moved quickly to calm the storm. Speaking at a press conference two days after the injury, he reassured fans: “Achraf Hakimi is the first player I select on the list every time. I firmly believe he's a player who can recover faster than others. Achraf will do everything he can to be at the AFCON. We will support him. We will implement the best medical protocol to ensure Achraf is back for the AFCON and at 100%.” 

AdvertisementAFPRegragui’s rallying cry and Hakimi's road to recovery

Morocco’s coaching staff have already begun working closely with PSG’s medical team to tailor a recovery plan focusing on accelerated healing, physiotherapy, and progressive load management. Sources in France suggest Hakimi’s rehabilitation will be split between Paris and Rabat, allowing him to remain under close supervision while staying connected with the national setup.

This faith in Hakimi’s physical and mental resilience isn’t misplaced. Over the past five seasons, the 26-year-old has been one of the most durable players in Europe, missing fewer than 10 games through injury since 2020.

Regragui’s confidence stems as much from data as from belief. According to Moroccan team analysts, Hakimi covers 11-12 km per game, contributes largely to Morocco’s offensive transitions, and maintains one of the best defensive recovery rates among African defenders. "Achraf Hakimi is an irreplaceable player. He was a contender for the Ballon d'Or. For us Moroccans, he is the best player in the world," said the Morocco coach.

Mazraoui can play Hakimi's role at AFCON

Since his senior debut in 2016, Hakimi has been at the centre of Morocco’s modern football rise. From Real Madrid’s academy to Borussia Dortmund, Inter and now PSG, he’s evolved into one of the world’s most feared full-backs because of his precision and positional intelligence.

At the 2022 World Cup, Hakimi played every minute of Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals, contributing directly to wins over Spain and Portugal. His audacious Panenka penalty against Spain became a defining symbol of Morocco’s fearless identity. Since then, he’s captained the national team in 15 matches, leading them to a perfect start in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and earning a sixth-place finish in the 2025 Ballon d’Or, which is the highest ever by a Moroccan player.

For Regragui, Hakimi’s influence is irreplaceable having played 88 games across all competitions for Morocco while scoring 11 goals and registering 15 assists. “He drives the group emotionally and tactically,” the coach said. “He brings balance, ambition, and belief.”

But should he miss the opening games, Noussair Mazraoui, the Manchester United full-back, is ready to step up. Regragui’s faith in him is clear: “I have always considered Mazraoui to be of the same calibre as Hakimi. He is a very great player. It is up to him to help us now. I have no doubt about Noussair, he is a soldier."

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Getty Images SportMorocco’s AFCON dream pinned on Hakimi's return

For Morocco, the upcoming AFCON is more than just a tournament as the Atlas Lions will host the competition for the first time in 40 years, carrying the hopes of a football-loving nation that hasn’t lifted the trophy since 1976.

The build up has been promising. Under Regragui, Morocco have lost just two matches in their last 20, blending tactical discipline with attacking flair. Stars like Sofyan Amrabat, Hakim Ziyech and Youssef En-Nesyri have matured into seasoned leaders, while a new generation, including Bilal El Khannouss and Abde Ezzalzouli, has added creativity and hunger.

Their opening match on December 21 in Rabat against Comoros will set the tone for their campaign. Whether Hakimi starts that night or watches from the sidelines, his presence will loom large.