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Everton are reportedly interested in signing Rangers star Glen Kamara, as Steven Gerrard tries to keep hold of the Finland star.

The Lowdown: Kamara wanted by several clubs

There were many players who stood out for the Gers in their Scottish Premiership triumph last season, but Kamara was arguably as good as anyone.

The 25-year-old shone in the middle of the park for Gerrard’s men, making 28 league appearances, and his form is rumoured to have alerted the likes of Arsenal, Leeds United and Watford.

The Latest: Everton enter the race

According to Eurosport, Kamara is ‘being pursued’ by Everton following Rafa Benitez’s arrival as manager, with Brentford also mentioned as possible suitors and Watford getting another mention.

An unnamed Russian side is also believed to be showing a strong interest, weighing up a ‘big money offer’ in the process.

The Verdict: Hard to keep hold of him

As hard as it may be to accept, the Scottish Premiership simply isn’t strong enough or glamorous enough anymore to tempt top players who have the option to test themselves in tougher divisions.

Kamara is a top-class footballer who was starring for Finland at Euro 2020 earlier in the summer – Gerrard has hailed him as both ‘fantastic’ and ‘excellent’ – and he may feel that a fresh challenge is required.

In an ideal world, Gerrard will entice him to stay put, but it looks increasingly as though their key midfielder may end up elsewhere next season, and the Gers’ attention may soon need to turn to ensuring they get the best deal possible.

In other news, the signing of one Rangers player has been lauded – find out who it is here.

Barbadians Vasbert Drakes and Corey Collymore snubbed the media on Monday evening, denying the public the chance to hear their perspective on the West Indies cricket tour of India and Bangladesh

26-Dec-2002Barbadians Vasbert Drakes and Corey Collymore snubbed the media on Monday evening, denying the public the chance to hear their perspective on the West Indies cricket tour of India and Bangladesh.When asked if he had any comments for the media, Collymore snapped: "No, I going home," but was still seen lingering at Grantley Adams International Airport even after reporters left. Drakes, on the other hand, went from smiling and kissing his son to shouting and pointing at photographers who were taking his picture.This reaction by theall-rounder, who recently made his debut for the team because of changes in the eligibility rule, was clearly a shock to people waiting for family and friends at the airport.In sharp contrast were Pedro Collins and Ramnaresh Sarwan. Collins was the first person through the automatic gates and was embraced by his family and friends, but he spoke briefly to the media.The bowler said he felt he had to take charge of that department after Mervyn Dillon went home early with an injury, but then he too was hurt and had to be rested."Other than that I think we had a decent tour. I think the guys played some wonderful cricket, and the batting really clicked for us,"he said.Commenting on the different conditions, he noted: "The pitches were a bit different in Bangladesh, they give a bit more bounce, more carry. The pitches in India were mostly batting wickets . . . but once you bend your back it is hard work, and hard work will pay off."Although it is the Christmas season, Collins does not intend to eat, drink and be merry.He is very aware that the team has to be in camp by January 13 to prepare for the ICCWorld Cup."The physiotherapist gave everybody a programme you have to go through everyday. We have the camp coming up, so instead of being lazy I am going to be active," he said.

A number of Liverpool supporters have reacted negatively to a rumour claiming that the Reds are willing to pay £55m for Youri Tielemans.

Gini Wijnaldum’s exit to Paris Saint-Germain has left a potentially gaping hole in Liverpool’s midfield ahead of next season, so a new signing may be needed.

Jurgen Klopp may still have some great options in the middle of the park, but Jordan Henderson and Thiago are now in their 30s and Curtis Jones remains a work in progress.

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One player who has been linked with a move to Anfield in the past is Tielemans, who enjoyed an excellent season for Leicester City in 2020/21, scoring a brilliant winning goal in the FA Cup final against Chelsea two months ago. He also featured in every Premier League game for the Foxes, with six goals and four assists in the top flight (Transfermarkt).

A fresh update has now emerged, with Voetbal24 [via LFC Transfer Room on Twitter] claiming that Liverpool are happy to table a £55m bid for the Belgium international this summer, and that the 24-year-old ‘really wants’ to join the Reds.

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Liverpool fans don’t like Tielemans rumour

Despite Tielemans’ decent return in 2020/21, rumours of a possible £55m offer have not gone down well with some Reds fans, who provided their thoughts on Twitter.

“Stop this nonsense. Tielemans is not far better than Curtis – I’d rather groom Curtis than buy Tielemans”

Credit: @chibix12

“Not convinced with him as a player”

Credit: @dhim_13

“I wouldn’t spend anything like that on him, can’t see us doing it either without selling first”

Credit: @Corballyred

“I’m cutting ties immediately”

Credit: @tijaniro

“Cutting ties with this despicable institution”

Credit: @Arv_2110

“I don’t want this guy please”

Credit: @takumilfc

In other news, Liverpool are reportedly willing to pay £25million for one player this summer. Find out who it is here.

England’s Holly Colvin is set to make history as the first overseas player for New South Wales women

Cricinfo staff30-Jun-2008England’s Holly Colvin is set to make history as the first overseas player for New South Wales women. Colvin will further bolster the dominant Breakers side and her spin partnership with Lisa Sthalekar has been described by coach Richard Bates as “exciting”. Bates used to be Colvin’s coach for England so he is well aware of her capabilities.”It is very exciting to have Holly onboard for the 2008-09 summer,” said Bates. “I believe we now have two of the best spin bowlers in women’s international cricket in our squad.Clare Connor, head of women’s cricket at the ECB, added: “In terms of World Cup preparation, there could be no better opportunity for Holly than joining the New South Wales Breakers squad. She will have daily access to every component of the NSW programme including their strength and conditioning coaches, spin bowling expertise, nutrition advice, and physio support should she need it.”Breakers’ break from tradition comes as part of a reciprocal deal between Cricket Australia and the ECB. This year, overseas players have been allowed in the Super Fours competition for the first time, with Australia’s Alex Blackwell and Leah Poulton taking advantage of the arrangement. The pair are also playing county cricket.Jenny Gunn will head to Western Australia from South Australia in the winter. She has been playing club cricket in Sydney and flying across to Adelaide for state matches. If she continues to play in New South Wales she will face flying even further for Western Fury’s home matches.

Everton are back at Finch Farm for pre-season but despite the arrival of Rafa Benitez, there are no fresh faces among the playing staff.

Of course, the Toffees had to contend with major international tournaments but they need to conclude their business sooner rather than later.

What’s the word?

Fortunately, Benitez and Marcel Brands are beginning to make headway in the market.

Denzel Dumfries will reportedly become an Everton player while they’ve now submitted a bid for an elite centre-back.

According to Calcio Mercato (via Inside Futbol), the club have made an offer to sign colossal centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly.

Claims emerged earlier this week that suggested the Senegalese defender was attracting the interest of the Merseyside outfit with Benitez keen on a reunion.

The Napoli defender is currently valued at £35m according to 90min.

A big coup

If Everton are able to get this deal over the line it would be a significant coup.

After all, Koulibaly has long been thought of as one of the most impressive defenders in Europe. Valued at £100m a few years ago, he was being linked with some of the biggest clubs in world football.

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However, with the defensive stalwart now in his 30s, perhaps suitors are less willing to pay a large sum of money for his services.

Everton desperately need to improve in defence, though. They ended 2020/21 with one of the worst records for goals conceded in the Premier League’s top ten, something a 5-0 defeat to Manchester City on the final day didn’t help.

Koulibaly could bring leadership, power and finesse to a backline that needs some sort of rejigging.

Benitez would surely know how to get the best out of him too after the pair worked together in Naples.

Attracted by the idea of being reunited, it’s evident that the Spaniard adores his qualities. Koulibaly played 39 matches under the 61-year-old’s stewardship between 2013 and 2015.

It was at that time that the Senegal international became more recognised. During the 2014/15 campaign, he earned a career-high WhoScored average match rating of 7.32 in the Champions League.

Koulibaly made a mighty 2.3 interceptions per game, as well as completing 86.8% of his passes. On that evidence, it’s hardly a surprise to see his former teammate, Pepe Reina, label him “extraordinary.”

The defender combines power with technical elegance and would be a huge coup if Benitez can get a deal over the line.

Not only is he one of the game’s elite centre-backs, but Benitez already knows him incredibly well.

AND in other news, Everton eye swoop for “phenomenal” 30-goal beast, he could be their new Lukaku…

A round-up of the County Championship action on Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Cricinfo staff16-Jul-2008
Ben Harmison celebrates taking the wicket of Stewart Walters on his way to 4 for 27 at Guildford © Getty Images
Leaders Kent endured a wretched day at Taunton where Somerset scored 427 and then reduced the visitors to 13 for 3 by the close. Five batsmen passed fifty, led by Zander de Bruyn’s 81, as Kent’s bowlers struggled to cope without Yasir Arafat who left the field with stomach cramps after four overs. James Tredwell came in for some severe punishment on an easy surface, shipping seven sixes on his way to 2 for 94. Somerset maintained a good pace all day, even when losing three quick wickets either side of lunch. Kent were left with a tricky five overs in gloomy and more bowler-friendly conditions and they lost Joe Denly, Martin Saggers and Robert Key. Key’s wicket, held at the second attempt by wicketkeeper Craig Kieswetter, was the hammer blow off the last ball of the day.Surrey’s woes continued as they were bowled out for 220 by Durham at Guildford, and it was only thanks to 113 from Scott Newman that they avoided a complete collapse. The Harmison brothers took six of the wickets to fall, but the lion’s share went to Ben who finished with 4 for 27, including three in 19 balls to polish off the innings. Surrey, missing several regulars through injury, including Mark Ramprakash who withdrew with a stomach upset, were fairly well placed on 199 for 4 when Liam Plunkett had Newman caught low down by Michael Di Venuto at second slip. Their last six wickets then fell for 21 runs on a pitch which contained few demons. Durham had problems of their own as Jimmy Ormond removed Di Venuto and Shivnarine Chanderpaul to leave them on 44 for 3.Hundreds from Murray Goodwin and Carl Hopkinson helped Sussex to reach 316 for 5 against bottom side Hampshire at Arundel. The innings got off to a shocking start as they crumpled to 25 for 4 before the pair shared a fifth-wicket stand of 194. Even when Hopkinson departed after completing his maiden first-class century, Robin Martin-Jenkins (57*) helped Goodwin add another 97 by the close, both batsmen benefiting from dropped catches. Earlier, Chris Adams and Matt Prior both fell for 0 and Michael Yardy was cruelly run-out at the non-striker’s end by a deflection from the bowler.
Jeff Evans raises his finger as David Balcombe celebrates running out Michael Yardy at Arundel © Getty Images
A fifth-wicket stand of 157 between Jim Troughton and Tony Frost bailed out Warwickshire against Middlesex in the top-of-the-table clash at Uxbridge. The pair came together with the leaders wobbling on 78 for 4 but were largely untroubled during their stand, although Ed Joyce at short leg did drop Troughton when he was on 32.Five Derbyshire batsmen passed fifty as they closed on 352 for 6 against Northamptonshire at the County Ground. Aside from a ten-ball spell midway through the day when David Wigley took three wickets, the bat dominated. Paul Borrington, Greg Smith, Wavell Hinds and Jonathan Clare all made half-centuries, and Graham Wagg was unbeaten on 81 at the close.

Speaking to Football Insider, Kevin Phillips has claimed that Everton manager Rafael Benitez may have implicitly told suitors to ‘come and get’ James Rodriguez.

The lowdown

When asked about the Colombian’s future, the 61-year-old refused to ‘talk about individuals’ because it’s ‘not fair for the other players’ (via Liverpool Echo).

Patrick Boyland and Greg O’Keeffe, Everton correspondents for The Athletic, wrote in June that ‘question marks remain’ over whether Rodriguez be keen to stay in the absence of Carlo Ancelotti, who brought the 30-year-old to Goodison Park last summer after previously working with him at Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, but the Italian has now returned to Los Blancos.

Rodriguez was directly involved in 10 Everton goals in 21 starts last season, scoring six goals and setting up four (via WhoScored). However, the Colombian struggled with his calf, causing him to miss a total of 11 games between December and April.

The latest

Phillips interpreted Benitez’s response as an indication that Rodriguez will be free to leave and thinks that interested parties will be on high alert after the Spaniard’s subtle remark.

“It’s definitely a hint or a sign,” the former Sunderland striker told Football Insider.

“He doesn’t want to comment on it and I understand that managers don’t want to sometimes. But that’s almost a way of saying ‘He’s there, come and get him’ without actually having to say those words.

“Managers always like to make a statement and I think that might be his way of saying it judging by the way he’s answered that question.

“From my experience, that suggests that the player will be made available.”

The verdict

Ability-wise, Rodriguez is surely the standout player in Everton’s squad. There were a number of matches season in which he showed his class, carving the opposition open.

It isn’t all down to talent, though. Supporters wouldn’t necessarily want the Colombian to stay put unless they were certain that he remained fully committed. Also, some fans may have grown frustrated with his persistent fitness struggles, particularly when he’s said to be banking £140,000 every week, which makes him the joint-top earner in the squad.

Phillips’ comments on Rodriguez’s future may indeed be pertinent.

In other news, this Everton starlet is growing ‘impatient’. 

Mohammad Asif is trying to hire the services of Dr Graham Durgan, a sports medicine expert from England, to plead his case

Cricinfo staff24-Jul-2008
Mohammad Asif will attend a hearing in Lahore regarding his detention in Dubai for allegedly carrying a banned substance © AFP
Mohammad Asif, the Pakistan fast bowler, is trying to hire the services of Dr Graham Durgan, a sports medicine expert from England, to plead his case against the dope charges after he tested positive for a banned substance during the Indian Premier League.”Nothing is final as yet,” Shahid Karim, Asif’s lawyer, told . “But we are holding talks to secure the services of Dr Durgan.” Asif had also tried to hire Mark Gay, who is an anti-doping expert, but didn’t receive a response from the British lawyer.Asif had asked for the B sample test, which was scheduled for July 28 at a World Anti-Doping Agency accredited laboratory in Switzerland, to be postponed in order to give him time to prepare his case and make travel arrangements. Karim said that they had sent two requests for postponement to the IPL, who hadn’t accepted or rejected the request.The IPL doping case is not the only cloud currently hovering over Asif. His 19-day detention in Dubai for allegedly carrying a banned substance is also the subject of a separate inquiry within the Pakistan board. Reports from Dubai authorities on the matter have finally been received by the PCB and Asif has been asked to attend a hearing in Lahore on Thursday.”We have received reports from Dubai regarding Asif’s detention there and will now be hearing the player’s side of the story,” PCB chief operating officer Shafqat Naghmi, one of the committee members, told . He said that the committee could take a decision on Asif after the hearing.Asif was in detention in Dubai from June 1 to 20 for suspected possession of an illegal substance. The case against him was dropped by the Dubai public prosecutor on the grounds of insignificance, though it was speculated that behind-the-scenes help had been provided by the Pakistan government and the board, who share close ties with the monarchy in the UAE.

Some Liverpool supporters have been reacting positively to Fabinho’s hilarious impression of a Scouser in a social media post.

The start of the 2021/22 season is edging closer all the time, with excitement building ahead of the Reds’ Premier League opener away to Norwich City next month.

The majority of Liverpool’s squad are now back in pre-season training, although some are still enjoying some time off after their involvement in summer tournaments.

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One of those is Fabinho, who helped Brazil reach the final of Copa America, which they lost to arch-rivals Argentina.

On Sunday, the 27-year-old was taking part in a fan Q&A on Instagram and a video emerged on Twitter of him doing an impression of a Scouser, as requested by a supporter.

Fabinho is heard saying “Want some chicken, lad?” in what is an excellent impression, illustrating that he has integrated nicely into the Merseyside community.

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Liverpool fans love Fabinho’s impression

These Liverpool fans took to Twitter to show their appreciation for the Brazilian’s “outstanding” Scouse accent.

“Class”

Credit: @ethanabs_

“I LOVE HIM, I LOVE HIM, I LOVE HIM, I LOVE HIM, I LOVE HIM”

Credit: @adamwhite_01

“Outstanding from Fabs”

Credit: @ParisPinney

“Yes Fab”

Credit: @hells_bells_10

“Absolutely superb”

Credit: @GregThompson7

“Fabinho is too funny! Great accent!”

Credit: @kop_girl77

In other news, two clubs are reportedly interested in signing one Reds player this summer – find out who it is here.

Aston Villa manager Dean Smith has suffered a major blow after John Terry’s departure from the club was confirmed.

What’s the story?

The former Chelsea centre-back joined Villa as Smith’s right-hand man back in October 2018 and has helped the club get promoted to the Premier League and achieve a solid campaign last season.

However, he has confirmed that he will be leaving with immediate effect as he looks to begin his own managerial career.

He said: “It has been a tremendous honour and privilege to have spent these last three years at Aston Villa, but I feel now is the right time to make the extremely difficult decision to move on.

“I want to be as respectful to the manager and everyone at Aston Villa as I can and, having given my future serious consideration over the summer, I genuinely don’t feel it is fair to move into a new season without being certain of seeing that through.”

Dean Smith will be devastated

Make no mistake about it, while Terry may have announced his departure before the start of the new season, it doesn’t take away from this being a major setback for Smith.

The Birmingham Mail’s Ashley Preece responded to the news on Twitter by saying: “A big blow losing JT, a man who’s been a huge & vital part of Villa’s rise. He’s left his mark at #avfc with Konsa and Mings the big beneficiaries. A dignified way of leaving knowing he didn’t want to disrupt Villa’s campaign. A great servant.”

As Preece says, Terry’s influence extends beyond just being an assistant to Smith, but also a valuable coach – especially in defence – to the likes of Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings, with the latter now an established England international who went to Euro 2020 this summer.

Terry has been at the club for a good number of years and has been a key part of their rise back to the top flight, so losing him will leave Smith devastated.

Not only will the Villa manager miss out on Terry himself, but he will also have to now find a replacement for him with just a couple of weeks left before the new Premier League season.

Meanwhile, Ashley Preece has dropped a major update on the future of this Villa man…it’s not Grealish