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Newcastle United emerged from the San Siro on Tuesday night without nursing a defeat, with AC Milan throwing the kitchen sink at Eddie Howe's outfit but unable to bypass the indomitable Nick Pope's goal.

It was a pleasing result after returning to Europe's elite club competition this year after two decades away, having finished fourth in the Premier League last term – especially considering Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund also make up the 'group of death'.

But, once again, the Magpies failed to take full flight, with the Daily Mail's Craig Hope claiming that it's "still not clicking on the whole", and given that the St. James' Park side have won two and lost three of their opening five matches in the Premier League, that's probably a fair assessment.

It's important to remember that the season is still in its fledging phase, and that United actually required eight league matches to bag their second victory last term.

Regardless, there are improvements to be made no doubt. And while Howe has largely opted to stick with the formula that gleaned success last term, perhaps it's now time to shake things up and climb up the table.

Who is underperforming for Newcastle?

It's perhaps a disproportionate reaction to suggest that Newcastle are struggling, but there are certainly several members of the squad who have failed to replicate last season's impressive, sustained showings thus far.

Bruno Guimaraes is a "world-class" midfielder – as has been said by his teammates – and has been the centrepiece of the club's ascent over the past few years, signing from French side Lyon for £40m in January 2022.

But he has not quite found his finest form this season. He will, of course, but the Brazilian is undoubtedly yet to gel with £55m summer signing Sandro Tonali, with The Chronicle's Lee Ryder acknowledging that argument that the pair "can't play together."

Alexander Isak, £63m club-record signing and focal frontman, is also yet to prove his worth since the summer, blanking across four matches since bagging a brace against Aston Villa in the Premier League opener, with presenter Kev Lawson noting that he needed "hooking" vs Milan.

Dan Burn, towering and versatile defender, has also received his share of criticism of late, but is it justified for a player who has performed with diligence and determination under Howe's stewardship?

How good is Dan Burn?

Signed from Brighton & Hove Albion for £13m in January 2022, Burn has been involved in Newcastle's ambitious new project from the get-go.

A boyhood Magpie, he swiftly asserted himself as an imposing presence in the centre of the defence, instrumental in Newcastle's resurgence in 2021/22, rising from the pit of the Premier League and finishing the campaign with an 11th-placed finish, with 49 points.

Hailed as a "colossus" by Magpies reporter Ciaran Kelly and an "absolute steal" by pundit Frank McAvennie, the 6 foot 6 gem found himself in the unlikely role of left-back, where he would ply his trade for the duration of the 2022/23 season, crucially aiding his side in their Champions League qualification.

As per FBref, the 31-year-old ranks among the top 1% of full-backs across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for aerial wins, the top 7% for clearances and the top 20% for blocks per 90.

A veritable wall in the Toon defence, he has been integral, but he's not exactly the most mobile of defenders, something that has been exposed several times this season.

Indeed, the £55k-per-week ace ranks among the bottom 5% of positional peers for progressive carries and the bottom 12% for successful take-ons per 90, and his lack of energy, while not negating his skill as a solid defender, is something that Howe will have on his mind as he looks to construct a team capable of winning silverware and cementing a spot in the Champions League.

Newcastle boasted the joint-best defence in the Premier League last season (alongside champions Manchester City), dominant and cohesive, but do not look to have the same level of imperiousness at present, and Howe might now be inclined to unleash his prodigious summer signing Tino Livramento, who is yet to start for the St. James' Park side.

Should Newcastle start Tino Livramento?

Livramento spent the lion's share of the 2022/23 campaign out injured, missing 43 matches and watching from the sidelines as Southampton succumbed to relegation after a miserable, disjointed season.

He had previously looked to be some talent, hailed for his "excellent" start to life on the south coast by England manager Gareth Southgate late in 2021, having joined from Chelsea for £5m that past summer.

Making 28 Premier League appearances that year and earning an average Sofascore match rating of 6.85, the 20-year-old completed 79% of his passes, averaged 1.9 tackles, 1.7 clearances and 1.7 interceptions per match, and also succeeded with 62% of his ground duels.

Traditionally a right-back, the energetic starlet – who has been projected to be a "future star" by former teammate Theo Walcott – once scored against Liverpool U21s while playing for Chelsea's development side down the left channel, and there is a sense that his dynamism could be perfect to provide cover for the Magpies on both flanks.

Having completed an initial £32m transfer to Tyneside from Saints this summer, Livramento is clearly a player held in high regard, formerly the winner of Chelsea's Academy Player of the Season in 2021.

Livramento's Strengths, (WhoScored)

Livramento's weaknesses

Dribbling

Ball retention

Interceptions

Concentration

A confident, ebullient marauder, Livramento ranked among the top 2% of full-backs in the Premier League for carry and dribble volume per 90 in 2021/22, while ranking among the top 10% for interceptions and ball recoveries per 90.

A robust, powerful, and multi-functional defender, it's surely time for Howe to provide his precocious 5 foot 11 talent with an opportunity to impress after paying the big bucks for his signature in the summer.

A trip to a raucous Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United is forthcoming in the Premier League, and with Burn's place under threat, Livramento should receive an opportunity to impress on Sunday – especially after the gruelling nature of the recent trip to Italy.

Southampton ended their 11-year stay in the Premier League at the end of last season as they were relegated back down to the Championship.

Their drop to the second tier of English football was a culmination of several years of poor recruitment as they failed to build a squad that was capable of comfortably avoiding relegation.

However, things could have been different if they were able to get some of the targets that they wanted and were unsuccessful in signing in the past.

Tino Livramento

£22.6m*

Danny Ings

£21.7m

Kamaldeen Sulemana

£21.6m

Jannik Vestergaard

£21.6m

Sadio Mane

£19.8m

*Includes the sell-on fee that Chelsea received from his move to Newcastle United this summer.

One player who the Saints failed to get a deal over the line for back in 2019 was a talented young gem who could have been their own version of Real Madrid and Croatia superstar Luka Modric.

Were Southampton interested in Yari Verschaeren?

In September 2019, it was reported that the club were interested in signing Belgian youngster Yari Verschaeren from Anderlecht, who was valued at around $15m (£12m) at the time.

The outlet claimed that the then-Premier League outfit were preparing an offer to sign the promising talent. However, a move never materialised and he remained in his home country.

Ralph Hasenhuttl was the manager of the club at the time and was seemingly keen to bolster his squad by adding the exciting midfielder to his ranks, but chairman Les Reed was unable, or opted not, to secure a deal.

Verschaeren had made his debut for the Belgium national team earlier that month and was starting to establish himself as a key player for Anderlecht at senior level.

The attacking midfielder assisted one goal in seven U19 games for the Belgian club and went on to make his first-team breakthrough during the 2018/19 campaign.

He produced one goal and four assists in ten Pro League games and then managed one strike in ten play-off matches at the end of the season.

The Saints target scored two goals and assisted one in 21 league outings for Anderlecht the following campaign as the English club showed interest in securing his services during that season.

What is Verschaeren doing now?

Since Southampton failed to snap him up during the 2019/20 term, Verschaeren has hit his stride at first-team level and been a consistently impressive performer in his home country over the last few years.

Earlier this year, Anderlecht head coach Brian Riemer lavished praise on the 22-year-old maestro as he described him as an "incredible" player who is "like Luka Modric".

This was supremely high praise from the Belgium international's manager as Luka Modric is a highly decorated midfielder who has been at the top of the game for many, many, years.

At the age of 22, Verschaeren still has plenty of time to reach those heights and make a name for himself in a major European league. However, he has been catching the eye with his performances for Anderlecht in recent seasons.

The talented ace, who was once valued at £12m, averaged a Sofascore rating of 6.91 across 36 Pro League outings throughout the 2021/22 campaign and contributed with seven goals and four assists from midfield.

He followed that up with an average Sofascore rating of 6.95 over 27 league matches last season for the Belgian giants, in which time he scored one goal and created seven 'big chances' for his teammates.

Meanwhile, only Mohammed Salisu (7.04) and James Ward-Prowse (7.23) averaged a higher Sofacore rating in the Premier League for the Saints last term. This suggests that the Hasenhuttl target could have been a top performer for the club if he was bale to translate his performances over to English football.

The Modric-like ace also produced excellent performances on the European stage. Varschaeren averaged an excellent Sofascore rating of 7.19 over ten Europa Conference League clashes as he chipped in with two goals and two assists to go along with 2.2 tackles and interceptions per game.

As you can see in the chart above, the Anderlecht star ranks highly among his positional peers in the Men's Next 14 Competitions when it comes to progressing the ball through carries and making an impact at the top end of the pitch.

He is similar to Modric, in that sense, as the Real Madrid star also excels in these statistics among players in his position across the Men's Big Five League and European competitions.

Their respective statistics over the last 365 days suggest that they are similar in style as they are both exceptional at carrying the ball forward for their teams from a central midfield position, whilst they also have the quality to impact matches with goals and assists when they get into advanced areas.

However, Verschaeren has a long way to go before he can come close to matching Modric's status within the game, as the Croatia international has a hefty trophy cabinet.

How many trophies has Modric won for Real Madrid?

The 38-year-old wizard, who won the Ballon d'Or in 2018, has racked up 23 trophies during his time with the Spanish giants, which includes five Champions League titles, to date.

He has also amassed 495 appearances and contributed with 37 goals and 77 assists from midfield, which means that he has averaged one goal contribution every 4.34 games.

Whereas, Verschaeren has scored 23 goals and assisted 21 in 154 matches for Anderlecht so far. This works out as a direct goal involvement once every 3.57 outings on average.

Both players have proven that they are able to chip in with goals and assists on a semi-regular basis to go alongside their progressive carrying skills in the middle of the park.

Therefore, Hasenhuttl, Reed, and Southampton had a nightmare with their failure to sign Verschaeren from Anderlecht in 2019 as he has developed into an outstanding young talent who is now earning himself comparisons to a legendary player in his position.

They could have benefitted from his ability on the pitch, as shown by his aforementioned performance levels in comparison to last season's squad at St. Mary's, in the short-term whilst also having a player with the potential to grow and improve further.

Nottingham Forest hero Brice Samba was a key figure just a few days ago as Ligue 1 Lens put themselves back into the British consciousness following their impressive Champions League qualification.

Indeed, Samba's new side beat Premier League high-flyers Arsenal., as he made six integral saves in the 2-1 win. His performance was one of great intrigue and continued to cement how much of a brilliant acquisition he's been since leaving the City Ground for just £4.3m.

When did Nottingham Forest sign Samba?

Brice Samba signed for Forest in 2019. Joining for an undisclosed fee on a four-year-deal, the Congolese-born stopper came from Caen initially as a backup for Manchester City loan keeper Arijanet Muric. However, with steady performances when given the chance, and Muric displaying a series of costly mistakes – Samba became the first choice between the sticks.

The season prior, he had proven his worth at Caen as they fought for Ligue 1 survival: he made more saves (142) than any other 'keeper and helped limit them to conceding just 54 goals over the course of the campaign. This was a total fewer than the surrounding teams.

How did Samba play at Nottingham Forest?

Samba enjoyed a solid three Championship seasons as an assault on the Premier League slowly came to fruition. In his first season, he took little time to get acquainted with the City Ground faithful – as top form led to receiving the Championship POTM award for November 2019. Later that term, he even found a place in the PFA Championship Team of the Year.

The pinnacle of Samba's Forest career arrived when he was a key part of Steve Cooper's team that gained playoff promotion – and his impact in the semi-finals live long in fans' memories. Against Sheffield United, 6 foot 2 Brice saved three spot kicks before playing the majority of the final against Huddersfield until he withdrew with a groin injury.

He'd given everything for the club and it was ultimately his last Forest outing. He turned down a new contract to go to Ligue 1 with Lens for a mere £4.3m. His decision was based on the raw desire of the French club despite labelling the Premier League being "a dream".

Back in his first season, then-teammate Matty Cash – seemingly anticipated Samba's growth and impact.

“His distribution is just ridiculous. His shot-stopping is brilliant — he is a fantastic goalkeeper and a big, big signing. He is a legend, he is a proper funny guy. He is professional, he does everything right on and off the field. He is a great asset to the club."

How good is Brice Samba now?

Well, to bookend this article, it's clear that Samba has grown exponentially from Championship-grade to Champions League-grade. He also popped onto the international radar, as back in March 2022 he received his first call up for the French national team.

2021/22s complete progress saw Lens jumping at the signature of the would-be-promoted keeper, and he took to Ligue 1 again similarly to how he had adapted to second-tier life in England.

In the first half of the campaign, he had nine clean sheets in just 19 games. Pushing this total to 15 in 38 games at the end of the season, he was included in the Ligue 1 TOTS as the best goalkeeper.

Samba had helped the dynamic Lens to only their third-ever Champions League participation as they finished third. His form has continued as according to FBref and FootballTransfers, the now-£22m-rated man provides outstanding numbers.

Compared to similar-level keepers, Samba sits in the top percentiles for multiple attributes. Goals against (his 0.95 per 90) reflect a top 9%. 78.1% save percentage puts him in the top 8%, and 7.8% of crosses stopped see him in the top 16% percentile. Quite the numbers; you may well suggest that Forest rue letting him so cheaply.

West Ham United's rise under David Moyes' management will forever be heralded in east London for the stunning ascent to sustained European exploits – leading to victory in the Europa Conference League last season.

Such success has meant that truly excellent players have been welcomed to the fold, with the likes of Lucas Paqueta and Jarrod Bowen coveted commodities on the European scene.

The climb to prominence even led to the attempts to sign Manchester United's Harry Maguire in the summer, but a deal wasn't agreed. Now, the Irons are believed to be back in for the titan and could move this winter.

What's the latest on Harry Maguire to West Ham?

The fact that Maguire's name remains in circulation suggests that Moyes is still optimistic that a deal could be struck in the future, and should the 30-year-old's playing time continue to cause concern such a transfer grows increasingly likely.

According to ESPN, West Ham are indeed considering a new bid for Maguire and may even lodge a formal offer in January.

It's understood that the Hammers grew weary of Maguire's unwillingness to commit to a transfer from the Theatre of Dreams and withdrew their £30m bid this summer, though with Manchester United's stance relatively unchanged a deal might be salvaged next year.

However, Maguire recently claimed that there was no agreement between the respective outfits and that he did not actually turn down a transfer to the London Stadium.

How good is Harry Maguire?

Manchester United signed Maguire from Leicester City for £80m in 2019, surpassing the world-record £75m fee Liverpool paid Southampton for Virgil van Dijk 18 months earlier.

Maguire had impressed in the Premier League but he has become a figure of debate for his poor performances and has received many vitriolic comments, branded as a "liability" by figures such as talkSPORT pundit Simon Jordan.

Despite all of the criticism, he remains a powerful and commanding centre-half and a "leader" of men, as he has been called by international teammate Kieran Trippier.

As per FBref, he ranks among the top 6% of positional peers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for assists, the top 16% for passes attempted, the top 15% for progressive carries and the top 9% for aerial wins per 90 – highlighting his ball-playing skills and imposing presence, attributes that would suit West Ham very well.

Not just an imposing unit defensively, the England international has also been known to pop up with a goal, scoring 28 goals at club level, 11 of which have come in the Premier League. Of course, he has played a great deal more games but for context, that tally was more than even Sebastien Haller managed in the top-flight of English football, netting ten times in 48 outings.

Such a glistening array of qualities could well mean the £190k-per-week star is the perfect replacement for defender Kurt Zouma, who is the West Ham captain and has been integral in Moyes' side's endeavours over the past several years.

However, as ESPN covered in their report on Maguire's transfer situation, Zouma is contracted until 2025, and while the east London side are hoping to extend his current deal, Saudi Arabian suitors are eager to exploit any hiccups in negotiations.

Zouma joined the club from Chelsea in a £30m transfer two years ago, and has been praised for his "incredible" qualities by his Scottish manager.

Clearly important to the squad's progress, Zouma's leadership could be emulated by a player of Maguire's standing, and while the Frenchman ranks among the top 4% of defenders for goals scored and the top 2% for clearances per 90, he is not known for his passing ability and ranks among the bottom 3% for passes attempted per 90.

Maguire would be an excellent replacement and one whose time in Manchester appears to be drawing to a close, earning his first Premier League start of the season last time out against Brentford but only as a by-product of injuries to Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane.

West Ham offer a starring role and a clean slate, and it's surely a transfer that would benefit all parties and is certainly one to keep an eye on over the coming months.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are back in action this evening, as Gary O’Neil’s in-form side host high-flying Newcastle United at Molineux in match day ten of the Premier League.

After a trialling summer, the Old Gold seem to have finally found their rhythm under O’Neil, with the Midlands side currently unbeaten in their previous four league games.

While confidence is high, Wolves face a huge battle this evening, as the Geordies arrive also in fine form, joining O’Neil’s side as also being unbeaten in their last four in the league.

Wolves team news vs Newcastle United

Last time out, Wolves were tested by Bournemouth, a test that they passed late into the game as Sasa Kalajdzic claimed the winner just two minutes from time at the Vitality Stadium in a 2-1 victory.

A goal early into the second-half from Matheus Cunha got the ball rolling for the Old Gold, and while neither usual culprits Hee-Chan Hwang nor Pedro Neto were on the scoresheet, both players claimed an assist to continue their fine form.

While the two forwards are crucial to keeping the side ticking in the final third, a key element to O’Neil’s setup was missing, as Mario Lemina faced suspension after receiving two yellow cards against Aston Villa.

Luckily for this evening’s hosts, the Gabonese ace is back in contention to start against Newcastle, along with Nelson Semedo who also missed the previous fixture due to suspension.

On the injury front, it’s been revealed that Joe Hodge is looking to be out of action for eight weeks after having surgery on a shoulder issue, while Jean-Ricner Bellegarde continues to nurse a calf problem.

The timing of Lemina’s return is pivotal for Wolves’ chances against Newcastle, as the Magpies pose a huge threat in midfield, a threat that could be controlled by the 30-year-old battler.

The stats that show why Mario Lemina must start against Newcastle United

When taking a look into Wolves’ squad, the numbers highlight that Lemina is O’Neil’s best-performing midfielder when it comes to tackles and interceptions in the Premier League.

The Gabon international averages 2.5 tackles and 2.1 interceptions per game this season in the league, reinforcing just how important he is to limiting the threat in the middle of the park as the ex-Southampton titan can constantly break up opposition attacks.

On the other side, Newcastle boast some stellar talent capable of building play from midfield, particularly through Brazilian duo Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.

Last season, Joelinton ranked in the top 6% of midfielders in the Premier League for his average of 1.79 successful take-ons per 90, highlighting his proficiency in possession and transitioning play upfield.

Similar strengths are found in Guimaraes’ playing style, where this term he’s averaging 1.52 successful take-ons per 90, as well as showcasing an impressive level of progressive distribution through his 1.52 key passes and 6.99 progressive passes per 90, via FBref.

For all the danger that Eddie Howe’s duo can exploit, Lemina is the best-suited player to answer their questions, as highlighted in the table below.

Mario Lemina 2023/24 Premier League

Statistic

Average

Tackles

2.55

Interceptions

2.17

Clearances

2.42

Passes blocked

0.38

Ball recoveries

6.63

Per 90 figures via FBref

Once lauded as “unbelievable” by analyst and scout Umir, the 30-year-old talent’s return could pose to be crucial to Wolves’ hopes of beating Newcastle, with his presence in the midfield incomparable to any of O’Neil’s other options.

Molineux has already seen Wolves slay Manchester City this season, with the hope there that the squad can overcome this evening’s challenge as the Geordies pay a visit.

A pundit has told Sky Sports that Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has now drilled one Spurs star into working very hard.

Spurs form and results this season

The Lilywhites look transformed by Postecoglou's arrival; winning seven out of a possible nine Premier League games while remaining unbeaten in that period. Victories over Bournemouth, Man United, Burnley, Sheffield United, Liverpool, Luton Town and Fulham have helped table-topping Tottenham to their finest start since they clinched a double in the 1960/1961 campaign.

Postecoglou has also broken a record, overseeing the best start made by a new manager in Premier League history. The mood around north London is one of real positivity and jubilation right now, and alongside their popular head coach, supporters have a key players to thank for their meteoric early-season rise. Son Heung-min, who's already scored seven top flight goals this season, has formed a very fruitful partnership with summer signing James Maddison in the forward areas.

Indeed, Maddison joined Spurs from Leicester City for £40 million over the last transfer window (BBC) – a fee which now looks like one of the bargains of 2023. His three goals and five assists, not to mention overall performances, have attracted real praise. The midfielder has also dazzled at international level, with England manager Gareth Southgate praising Maddison as a player who brings the "sunshine".

“He is in a really good vein of form," said Southgate at an England press conference.

"A really good character around the group. He connects people well. We have got the more steady, serious guys & we have a lot of guys who bring a lot of sunshine."

Aaron Lennon praises James Maddison

It's one of English football's worst kept secrets that Maddison is a serial creator going forward, having also notched a brilliant 10 goals and nine assists in the Premier League for Leicester last campaign. Now, he's found a new set of fans to entertain with his quality on a weekly basis, and it appears the sky may very well be the limit.

Former Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon has lavished Maddison with praise on Sky Sports as well, but it's for an aspect for his game you wouldn't usually associate that often with the star playmaker. Lennon has spotted something different which Postecoglou has drilled into his game – namely that he's now working very hard out of possession.

“Yeah, at the minute he’s on absolute fire," said Lennon to Sky (via Football Daily) after their 2-0 win over Fulham on Monday.

"I was watching him and he completely dictated the game. He was working hard off the ball, I think the new manager has got that into him. He must be a joy to play with, as one of those front players with him behind you, if you make the run he’ll find you. He’s the man of the moment at the minute."

Gets fouled often

Likes to cut inside

Likes to dribble

Plays the ball off the ground often

Likes to do lay-offs

Likes to play long balls

Maddison will next be in action against Crystal Palace on Friday, as Spurs look to maintain their incredible run and remain top of the table.

Glasgow Rangers have begun life under Philippe Clement excellently, going undefeated across four games in the Premiership and the Europa League and while it is still early days yet, there is some positivity returning to the club.

The Belgian has brought out the best in several players, while Sam Lammers and Cyriel Dessers even got on the scoresheet in the 5-0 drubbing of Dundee in midweek.

Indeed, that away victory was the Gers' highest outside Ibrox since a 6-1 battering of Motherwell in October 2021 and it has highlighted just how disappointing the club have been since then, struggling with their identity on the pitch.

Clement is already giving the Light Blues an identity and his playing style is favoured towards fighting for the whole 90 minutes and being as relentless as possible.

The focus now will be to continue to give the players confidence and with a chance to move into the League Cup final should they beat Hearts at Hampden on Sunday, the good times could be on their way sooner rather than later.

A key focus for the former Club Brugge manager will be his approach to the January transfer window, as the Glasgow side urgently need some improvements with regard to their squad depth.

The previous two managers – Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Michael Beale – did not exactly conduct the best business in their respective transfer windows, and it looks as though the club are paying for it now.

The duo signed players who were seemingly not up to the standard required for success at Rangers, while allowing a few first-team players either leave on the cheap, or when they could still have offered something. Cedric Itten is a prime example of both of these factors, especially with his recent form alongside a huge value increase since leaving Scotland.

Cedric Itten’s transfer value at Rangers

The Swiss striker joined the club back in the summer of 2020, with Steven Gerrard spending £2.7m to lure him to Ibrox.

He had scored 31 goals during the previous two seasons at FC St Gallen and after failing to win any silverware for the second year in succession, Gerrard was keen to bolster his attacking options.

Although he managed to score just six goals during his maiden season at the club, he helped them win their first league title in a decade and his transfer valued soared to €7.2m (£6.2m) and it looked as though with some time, he could turn into a solid piece of business for the Gers.

He spent the first half of the following season on loan at Greuther Fürth in the Bundesliga, scoring against Bayern Munich and during the January transfer window, Van Bronckhorst recalled him in order to bolster his options.

The Dutchman claimed that Itten had “different qualities” to that of Kemar Roofe and Alfredo Morelos and it looked as though he was set for a reprieve.

It proved to be a false dawn however, as he scored just twice and his future looked bleak heading into the summer transfer window.

Cedric Itten’s transfer value at Young Boys

The Swiss striker was deemed surplus to requirements and was moved on back to Switzerland for a fee of just £1.5m, which was over a million pounds less than the initial outlay just two years prior, and he has kicked on ever since, proving the move has been successful.

The centre-forward was in sensational form during his first season back in his homeland, helping Young Boys win both the top flight title and the Swiss Cup, scoring 23 goals and registering 12 goals across all competitors, and it looked as though the Gers made a big mistake.

63

36

56

30

48

8

39

3

26

4

12

2

The 26-year-old demonstrated his ruthlessness by missing only three big chances in the Swiss Super League while creating seven big chances and scoring once every 89 minutes.

Itten is proving that last season was no one hit wonder as he has scored four league goals in ten appearances, of which just four have been starts.

He currently ranks second across the squad for goals and assists (five) while also ranking second for big chances created (three) and scoring frequency (a goal every 105 minutes) and this has ensured that his transfer value has risen dramatically in recent months.

According to Football Transfers, Itten is now currently valued at €8.1m (£7m) and with an expected transfer value of up to €10.2m (£8.8m), it looks as though the Light Blues have suffered a major blunder by selling him for just £1.5m.

Cedric Itten has outscored every Rangers' player since leaving

Such is his impact back in Switzerland, Itten has outscored every single Rangers' player since he left during the 2022 summer transfer window.

Both James Tavernier and Antonio Colak scored 18 goals each last term, yet the 23 that Itten plundered trumps both of their totals by a decent margin.

The Rangers' captain has added another eight goals during the current campaign, yet the former St Gallen forward has scored seven goals across all competitions so far and this means he has found the back of the net on 30 occasions in just 56 matches, which works out as a goal every 1.86 matches, a stunning tally.

Clement could only dream about having a player who could give him a goal return like that and the mismanagement of the Swiss international striker means the club have let another talented gem through their net.

He may have endured a tough time in Glasgow but his form since moving on from Ibrox suggests that they ditched him far too soon, given his impressive goalscoring record.

Hopefully, the Belgian will ensure the likes of Danilo are given proper chances in the starting XI from which to showcase their talents once fully fit, and he could certainly be a game-changer when it comes to finding a proper out-and-out centre forward.

Itten has shone since leaving Scotland and in turn, his valuation has soared, meaning the Gers have missed out on a major profit should he sell for a high price.

They fumbled badly on the 6 foot 2 machine and, hopefully, this will be the last of such mistakes.

Newcastle United are keen on signing an "extremely important" new creative player, one they have seen up close and personal in recent tweeks.

Newcastle midfielder search

It has been no secret that the Magpies are entertaining the idea of signing a new midfielder during the January transfer window, mainly due to the 10-month suspension that Tonali has picked up for breaching betting rules while at AC Milan. The absence of the Italian has left a significant void in the middle of the park, and Eddie Howe's side are already looking jaded without him, with injuries and fatigue leading to some patchy form in both the Premier League and the Champions League.

Various players have been in the conversation to move to St James' Park and fill the Tonali-shaped void, with Newcastle reportedly keen on signing Manchester City and England ace Kalvin Phillips.

Meanwhile, the Magpies have been linked with the likes of Ruben Neves and Scott McTominay, too, and as it stands, it would be a surprise if the club didn't address the situation in January. Now, a new name has been thrown into the hat – one who can play a number of other positions too.

Newcastle interested in Dortmund's Julian Brandt

According to a transfer update from The Mirror over the weekend, Newcastle are interested in signing Borussia Dortmund star Julian Brandt, with Arsenal also believed to be in the mix.

"Borussia Dortmund attacking midfielder Julian Brandt is wanted by Arsenal and Newcastle. Eddie Howe’s Toon have had a close-up view of the 27-year-old Germany star in their two Champions League games, Brandt scoring in Tuesday night’s 2-0 defeat of the Magpies.

"They like what they have seen, also the case with the Gunners. Arsenal have been tracking Brandt although Dortmund have so far refused to consider any bids for a player they secured for around £22million."

Brandt has been a superb performer in the Bundesliga for a sustained period of time, not only catching the eye for Dortmund but also shining for Bayer Leverkusen. The 27-year-old could be exactly what Newcastle are looking for, with Brandt's statistics highlighting what a creative force he can be.

Appearances

185

Goals

36

Assists

39

That is an impressive return from midfield, but the Germany international is also a hard-working figure – something that Howe demands in his midfielders – and he has been hailed as "extremely important" for Dortmund by manager Edin Terzic in the recent past.

Brandt is also someone who Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp personally wanted in the past, once seeing him as a strong alternative to Mohamed Salah before he made the move to Anfield – the fact he can play on either wing as well as in midfield means he could still have an important role once Tonali returns.

At 27, the German is in and around the peak of his powers, and should be for the foreseeable future, but whether Dortmund would even consider selling him in the near future is certainly up for debate, especially in January.

The Champions League is usually not a place to muck about; Mikel Arteta already knows that as Arsenal manager.

Their record at Europe’s top table this season is by no means flawless, tasting defeat in France on match day two against RC Lens. The Ligue 1 side are dark horses on the best of days, shocking the Gunners 2-1 a few months ago.

Arsenal, however, are in a different place now. Just a point separates them and the last 16.

Yet, with injuries still plaguing the squad, the latest of which has seen Fabio Vieira undergo groin surgery, there could be a place among the substitutes on Wednesday night for some of Hale End’s finest academy products.

Here are three who could feature in the squad at the Emirates tonight.

1 Myles Lewis-Skelly

17-year-old midfielder Myles Lewis-Skelly is yet to make his first-team debut for Arsenal but it surely won’t be too long before the teenager earns those elusive minutes.

Recently returned from an unsuccessful World Cup campaign with England U17s, the youngster was seen training with the first-team squad on Tuesday ahead of the tie with Lens.

Boasting a goal and three assists this term for the U21s, Lewis-Skelly is one of the hottest prospects at Hale End right now, having previously been described as an “unplayable” asset by U18s manager Jack Wilshere.

Small in stature but big in heart, the teenager boasts a huge number of qualities. A scout report from Jacek Kulig highlights his ability to “play in a single pivot” and “dictate the tempo” of a game.

Further qualities lie in his ability to pass the ball progressively and bound forward into offensive areas. Such versatility in his skill set could well see him described as a mini Declan Rice. An exciting prospect indeed.

2 Ethan Nwaneri

Lewis-Skelly’s partner in crime at youth level is none other than Ethan Nwaneri, Arsenal’s youngest-ever player in the senior side.

The 16-year-old made his debut against Brentford last season but hasn’t featured again since. It’s only a matter of time before he does, however.

#1 Ethan Nwaneri

15 years, 5 months, 28 days

2022: Brentford

#2 Cesc Fabregas

16 years, 5 months, 24 days

2003: Rotherham

#3 Jack Wilshere

16 years, 8 months, 12 days

2008: Blackburn

#4 Jermaine Pennant

16 years, 10 months, 15 days

1999: Middlesbrough

#5 Paul Vaessen

16 years, 11 months, 11 days

1978: Lokomotive Leipzig

#6 Ryan Smith

16 years, 11 months, 18 days

2003: Rotherham

#7 Gedion Zelalem

16 years, 11 months, 29 days

2014: Coventry

#8 Armand Traore

17 years, 16 days

2006: West Brom

Data via Transfermarkt.

The teenager is another to have been spotted in first-team training ahead of the clash with Lens in midweek, one of multiple times he’s now been called into the senior environment.

One of the most exciting and technically gifted talents to emerge from the academy since a certain Wilshere, Nwaneri has been in red-hot form so far this season. The attacking midfielder has found the net on five occasions in six matches, while posting a further two assists.

3 Charles Sagoe Jr

An exciting winger, 19-year-old Charles Sagoe Jr is having a real breakout season at Arsenal in 2023/24.

He made his senior debut against Brentford in the Carabao Cup a few months ago from the right wing and has only been going from strength to strength as he strives to make it into Arteta’s side on a more regular basis.

In total this term, the attacker has featured 13 times for Arsenal’s youth teams, scoring three goals and supplying six assists.

Described as “one of the most consistent players” in the academy by Arteta, it’s evident the Spaniard rates him highly. That’s been seen first-hand in the fact that Sagoe Jr has been in the match-day squad at senior level on three occasions this term, including in the Premier League and the Champions League.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly ‘stepped in’ to sign a new player in the January transfer window.

Wolves summer signings

The Old Gold had a busy summer off the pitch, with Gary O’Neil replacing Julen Lopetegui days before the 2023/24 season got underway. When it came to incomings and outgoings, O’Neil didn’t really have much time or resources to play with, although a number of new players were brought in.

Matheus Cunha – Atletico Madrid

Undisclosed

Tom King – Northampton Town

Free

Matt Doherty – Atletico Madrid

Free

Tommy Doyle – Manchester City

Loan

Enso Gonzalez – Libertad

Undisclosed

Santiago Bueno – Girona

£10m

Boubacar Traore – Metz

£9.5m

Jean-Ricner Bellegarde – Strasbourg

Undisclosed

Fees according to Sky Sports

On the pitch, there has been plenty of frustration, with Monday night’s 3-2 defeat to Fulham the latest setback for O’Neil’s side. The boss wasn’t happy with the officiating after the game either, saying on VAR:

"Maybe tonight [Monday] has finally turned me against VAR. I thought it would probably help but it doesn't seem to be. I'm managing a big football club here – the difference you're making to my reputation, the club's progression up the league, people's livelihoods is huge.

"It can't be with all the technology, in the best league in the world, it can't be OK. We should discuss the game really but unfortunately we have to discuss this."

Despite the on-field setbacks, sporting director Matt Hobbs appears to be planning for the upcoming winter window, where a new defender now seems to be on the radar for those at Molineux.

Sport Witness relayed a transfer update on Galatasaray’s Victor Nelsson and a possible move to Wolves. There have been claims suggesting that Wolves have now ‘stepped in’ to sign the centre-back after his representative made a trip to England to hold talks with interested parties. The report adds that Wolves are considering an approach in the New Year, with Nelsson falling out of favour in Turkey after admitting he’s not planning to sign a new deal with his current employers.

Victor Nelsson profiled

Nelsson, a Denmark international, is 25 years of age and is primarily a centre-back who can also turn out as a holding midfielder if needed. The player is currently valued at a career-high €19m by Transfermarkt. (Victor Nelsson profile – Transfermarkt)

Wolves exploring deal to sign "exciting" new player for £2m in January

The Midlands outfit have made contact to enquire about the availability of a promising teenager.

ByChloe Chadwick Nov 29, 2023

He began his career in his native country with Nordsjaelland and FC Copenhagen before making the move to Turkey in 2021. Since then, Nelsson has featured heavily for his employers and boasts plenty of senior experience as he is approaching 100 appearances for Galatasaray. (Victor Nelsson stats – Transfermarkt)

Previously labelled as a “monster” by Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig, Nelsson could come into O’Neil’s side and provide plenty of fierce competition to the club’s current centre-back options, Max Kilman, Santiago Bueno, Toti and Craig Dawson. (Wolves centre-backs – Transfermarkt)

However, there could be competition from fellow Premier League clubs for the defender, with recent reports suggesting both Arsenal and Tottenham are keen on signing Nelsson in 2024, so it appears to be one to keep an eye on heading into the New Year.