Leicester City are simply on a roll this season.

Ever since Brendan Rodgers entered the King Power, the club have enjoyed an incredible rise Leicester City have won 15 of their 25 league games under the former Liverpool and Celtic coach. The whole squad is playing with the confidence of a side staking a major claim for a shout at the Premier League title let alone the Champions League places.

Much of the credit must go to Brendan Rodgers for his side’s outstanding form, but his players certainly deserve a share of the glory. It may be Jamie Vardy carrying all the plaudits for his record in front of goal but James Maddison is a man who has been just as remarkable in Leicester’s rapid rise.

The attacking midfielder has received heat in the past for his apparent arrogance and overconfidence, but his performances as of late shows he can certainly walk the walk.

4 goals and 2 assists from 11 Premier League games highlights his significance in Brendan Rodgers’ setup. James Maddison has become the beating heart of a side playing scintillating football. The game against Arsenal at the weekend was proof of the giant strides that Rodgers is leading this team into, arguably toppling the heights of when the side that so famously lifted the Premier League trophy in 2016.

With particular additions of Youri Tielemans, Ben Chilwell, Ricardo Pereira, Wilfred Ndidi and Caglar Soyuncu, this is a side that can truly match it with the best and James Maddison is at the centre of it all. Against Arsenal at the King Power, Maddison was at his sparkling best, scoring his sides second and showcasing a maturity in his game that has truly been admired since his move to the top-flight from Norwich City. The simple fact that he created the most chances out of any midfielder in the Premier League last season is a testament to his unique qualities.

No Premier League midfielder can better Maddison’s three shots per game this season, while he’s eighth in the league for key passes and 11th for dribbles per game. He’s also the fifth most-fouled player in English football’s top flight [WhoScored].

The way in which he took his goal against Arsenal was so measured and assured, he made it look easy. The shot is neither driven or curled, blasted nor shaped; it’s simply delivered where it needed to go with a minimum of fuss. Whatever you make of Maddison’s arrogance or overconfidence in himself, its these instances which tend to force his critics to swallow their own words.

As Rodgers has learned so quickly, its about finding the perfect balance between indulging such as an influential player and reminding him of his responsibilities elsewhere. As well as becoming Leicester’s focal point in midfield, Maddison has also been tasked with pressing when needed and even sacrificing his duties in the final third to drop deep and orchestrate the play in front of the opposition midfield as well as beyond it.

Getting the fans off their seats is an important role in an attacking midfielder, and Maddison certainly achieves that with great pride. He is the kind of player who seems empowered by his own confidence, as if the bigger the grin on his face, the greater the level to which he must elevate himself.

We know he can provide the spark at club level but can he do so on the international stage too?

Gareth Southgate has challenged Maddison to be ‘high performance, and low maintenance’. On the evidence of his displays in recent weeks, the England coach’s message has been received loud and clear. He has yet to feature for England as of yet and he is hoping his form will allow him the chance to prove his mettle in England’s forthcoming European qualification fixtures. Maybe even becoming a key figure for England when Euro 2020 kicks off next summer.

His decision to visit a Leicester casino, after leaving the squad due to illness, in order to watch the 2-1 defeat to Czech Republic last month was a distraction Southgate could have done without. It certainly didn’t help Maddison’s case taking that controversial decision, but now the midfielder may just be handed an opportunity to redeem himself and most significantly stake his claim for a permanent place in Southgate’s exciting England team.

James Maddison is certainly up against it though, with the likes of Ross Barkley, Mason Mount and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all vying for his role in the attacking midfield department.

Southgate will be expected to overhaul his midfield for the final two games with England only needing a point to guarantee qualification to next years European Championship.

It’s all well and good performing for your club on a weekly basis, but when on international grounds, you’re on a much higher and grander platform to perform and it is a task that lies in wait for the hugely talented James Maddison.

Maddison’s has become one of the best attacking midfielders in the Premier League over the past year but can he maintain that spark and work ethic to become the wonderful player he has been earmarked to be? Can he now replicate that form at international level? He may just be the creative spark England so desperately need.

 

 

 

Manchester United have gone behind to Crystal Palace, West Ham, Newcastle, Bournemouth and Sheffield United this season and failed to retrieve a draw out of any of those games. It is a worrying streak for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer that implies a lack of conviction and star quality in a side that is crying out for them.

The last time United came back from going behind to win came against Southampton in March, the game before that remarkable night in Paris – the night that became a fairy tale has become the origin of a nightmare period for the club. Solskjaer became permanent boss after that and since then, they have fallen behind in 11 games in all competitions and have ended up on the losing side in every single one of them.

Gone are those days when United trying to overcome a deficit was one of the hallmarks of the English game especially at Old Trafford. Sir Alex Ferguson’s great sides will attempt anything under the sun to pick up a victory, rather than even rescuing a draw. Relentless attacking prowess used to be the trick, now United are like faulty equipment, only useful in spurts.

13 goals scored in their first 11 Premier League games is certainly not good enough, with 5 players scoring only once. After going 1-0 down to Bournemouth last weekend, United couldn’t conjure up any magic to rescue the game, but for the odd 20-yard efforts and the lack of penetrative openings.

It’s worrying times for Solskjaer and he will need to be looking to solve these creative issues. United have been linked recently with a whole repertoire of attacking midfielders. Jadon Sancho, James Maddison, Kai Havertz and Bruno Fernandes to name a few. Though, one man who Solskjaer could certainly look to:

Ajax’s magician Hakim Ziyech.

It still baffles many that the Moroccan is still plying his trade in Amsterdam. With Frenkie De Jong, Matthijs De Ligt and Kasper Dolberg all opting for pastures new, many thought Ziyech will eventually follow suit by the end of the window. But when you’re one of the clubs key influences, why would you have the need to depart?

While many predicted a transitioning period, Ajax have seamlessly picked up where they left off, scoring 39 goals in their first 12 games and scoring 10 goals from 4 games in the Champions League. Ziyech has been at the centre of it all. Against Chelsea in the 4-4 draw, he once again showed why certain clubs were mad not to pursue his services last summer with another attacking masterclass. The Moroccan has either scored or assisted in 9 goals of his last 12 Champions League appearances – 5 goals and 6 assists.

So far this season he has scored eight goals with a staggering 10 assists in all competitions. He didn’t add to that tally at Stamford Bridge, but he did leave a talented Chelsea defence in tatters with his technical skill, creativity and his unerring deliveries from wide areas. It was his cross that expertly found Quincy Promes ghosting at the back post to score Ajax’s second goal.

Ziyech also had a hand in their 3rd goal, completely bamboozling Kepa scoring from a corner. Ten minutes later, he then teed up Donny Van De Beek to break Chelsea hearts once again.

It was a true representation of the ability and influence he holds in the whole squad. Ajax are never worried about lacking ideas or creativity in the final third. They simply have it in abundance with Ziyech, Tadic and Van De Beek around. It’s the reason why Ajax have been one of the most exciting teams to watch over the past year. Against, Lille on Wednesday, he was again at his sparkling best, with a goal and an assist to his name.

How Solskjaer would love a player of Ziyech’s ilk right now.

The stats from last season, as well as this season, tell its own story. 21 goals and 24 assists from his breakout year, showed why he was the subject of much interest from Europe’s top clubs last summer.

 

What’s so unique about the player, is that he could play anywhere across the attacking midfield positions. Left wing, right wing, as a no.10, as a no.8. You name it.

The Moroccan certainly has what it takes to bring back the excitement to Old Trafford. There is certainly a creative void at Old Trafford, especially with Paul Pogba on the treatment table. Juan Mata, Jesse Lingard and Andreas Pereira are certainly adequate options, but they do not hold the X-factor Solskjaer needs. United have regularly flattered to deceive with their laboured possession, failing to break down teams who defend in numbers. Despite the pace and movement United hold, there isn’t a player behind them – aside from Pogba – who can pick them out. Much of United’s play is in front of defences rather than in behind.

Ziyech could be the solution.

The former FC Twente midfielder can create something out of nothing. When faced with team that sits deep, the Moroccan can simply take a swing at his left foot and you’d bet your house it will end up in the back of the net. His goal against Valencia in the Champions League this season was simply out of this world. Picking up the ball on the right hand side, he cut in and unleashed an absolute scorcher from all of about 30-yards.

His deliveries from open play and set-pieces are so deadly. Often deployed on the right in Ajax’s system, its his knack of drifting inside and picking out passes and crosses that cause panic in the opposition. His assist for Quincy Promes against Lille in was an expert reminder. Rather than having the  qualities of a natural winger, Ziyech is Ajax’s chief creator from the right. That’s not to say he cannot perform the role of a out-an-out winger. He’s got the work-rate, skill, pace and creative acumen to be just as effective.

Hakim Ziyech has shown he deserves a bigger spotlight and platform to perform in, and there is no better place than the Premier League.

Manchester United are in desperate of need some injection and enthusiasm in their attacking play and the addition of Hakim Ziyech could certainly fill that massive void.

 

There was an instance near the end of Chelsea’s game against Watford where Mateo Kovacic seemed to almost roll down his socks as his side aimed to close out the match to pick up their seventh straight away victory. Whether it was a bit of over-confidence becoming sure of victory or as a result of fatigue, however strange it may have been, this is a man who is enjoying his football once again.

Against Watford, Mateo Kovacic followed up his world-class performance against Burnley serving up yet another masterclass as Chelsea triumphed 2-1 at Vicarage Road.

The Croatian is showing why Chelsea were right to make his loan move permanent in the summer.

Deemed surplus to requirements at Real Madrid, the Croatian has risen up from the rubble in Spain to become a vital cog in Frank Lampard’s flourishing Chelsea team. At the point of his move to Real Madrid, Kovacic was touted as one of the brightest young midfielders in world football after some scintilating performances at Inter Milan. Roberto Mancini, manager of the club at the time revealed that the Italian giants were forced to sell the Croatian because of Financial Fair Play regulations. Regardless, he was rewarded for his time in Italy with a dream move to Spain in 2015 for just €29 million.

With the expectation of being Luka Modric’s heir, it did not work out the way Kovacic would have wanted. Despite Real Madrid battling on all fronts in the Champions League and La Liga, Kovacic’s impact and involvement in the teams efforts were limited.

The emergence of Casemiro along with the brilliance of Toni Kroos and international team-mate Luka Modric meant Kovacic could only enjoy a bit-part role. When the Croatian did get the opportunities he needed under Rafael Benitez, he was deployed in a variety of positions; attacking midfield, a box-to-box player, wide right and wide left, his development wasn’t helped by Benitez’ indecision. He only scored his first La Liga goal in January 2017, two years into his spell in Madrid.

A move to Chelsea may have been the refreshment he needed. His is first season under in England Sarri brought similar issues. Underused and undervalued as Sarri stuck to his ways in trying to implement his ‘Sarri-Ball’ philosophy. As much as the fans hated the ideology, there was simply no room for Kovacic to grow. Had Sarri still been in charge now, Kovacic may well have returned back to Real Madrid.

Under Frank Lampard though, the Croatian dynamo has enjoyed a new lease of life. It certainly would have been a different story had N’Golo Kante been fit in recent weeks, Kovacic may well have been rotting on the bench once again. He has grabbed the opportunity with both hands.

While the performances against Burnley and Watford were the perfect highlight reels for Kovacic’s unique qualities. It was the away win in Amsterdam against Ajax in their Champions League group tie which was just as extraordinary. Chelsea denied Ajax the freedom to express themselves on the front foot, pressing and harrying forcing them to surrender possession in dangerous areas to counter, and much of that was down to Mateo Kovacic.

Jorginho was imperious in front of the back four, keeping things ticking over. Mason Mount pressed hard and never stopped running, but it was Mateo Kovacic who was simply brilliant with and without the ball. His 92.6% pass completion rate, losing the ball only six times illustrated his major involvement in Chelsea’s victory.

The Croatian was calm, collected and never seemed in any hurry to exert his influence in the middle. It was the complete midfield performance.

Without the ball, he is just as good. Kovacic attempted and completed three of his tackles against Watford and was successful in 100% of his aerial duels despite his short frame. It will be extremely difficult for Lampard to leave him out of the team once Kante returns from injury, and on recent evidence the French international may have to fight his way back into Lampard’s line up once he returns.

So what has changed for Kovacic?

Firstly, the Croatian has been given much more opportunities and he is repaying the faith placed in him. Secondly, his position is the same as under Sarri but he seems more himself in a system that requires his rampaging qualities on the ball. He, like many other players last season, was handcuffed by Sarri’s tepid system last season.

Frank Lampard has broken those shackles.

The Chelsea legend has freed up Kovacic a bit more, encouraging him to be more attack-minded whilst maintaining his defensive responsibilities. There is also a seamless and telepathic understanding with those around him too, especially Jorginho – both aware of each other’s whereabouts at all times. It’s because of the Croatian, Jorginho has rediscovered the kind of form that made him one of the most coveted midfielders in Europe two seasons ago at Napoli.

Mateo Kovacic has been a revelation so far this season. Proving the doubters and critics who were against his permanent signing in the summer wrong with some masterful performances. This is the player that Real Madrid were hoping for when they signed him back in 2015. However, their loss is Chelsea’s gain right now.

Mateo Kovacic is a man reborn.

 

Remember a familiar double act that used to light up Old Trafford becoming the most feared partnership in the English game? A partnership that propelled Manchester United to the pinnacle of English football. Two names that struck fear into opposition defences even before a ball had been kicked. Yes, you probably guessed it, Andy Cole and Dwight Yorke.

It seems an age since both players graced the Old Trafford faithful, and how Manchester United need a similar spark right now as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer plans to take the club back to where it belongs. A potential strike partnership involving two of their brightest attacking talents, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford could well be on the offing, a partnership that could take United to a trip down memory lane.

Against Norwich, in their 3-1 triumph at Carrow Road, Rashford and Martial were at their sparkling best especially the third goal scored by Martial, the interchanging, exquisite passing and movement tore apart Norwich’s hapless defence. It was simply mesmerising.

Who says they can’t form a formidable partnership up-front just like Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole once did? For much of the season, Marcus Rashford has been tasked with leading the line on his own. Though, its clear Marcus Rashford enjoys playing with a partner, just like he does so well for England with Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling. It is through Kane that Rashford effectively link-up play with and because of his intelligence in positioning and the awareness of movement, it makes it easy for Rashford to become so dangerous for his country.

Coming in off the left is where Marcus Rashford is at his best. At Carrow Road, we saw Rashford at his destructive best running down the left beating his opponents at will, forming an incredible understanding with Martial with their incisive one touch football and mesmeric movement. The lack of options in attack has forced Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s hand so far this season pinning all his hopes on a player who really doesn’t seem comfortable playing as a lone frontman. With Anthony Martial back and firing on all cylinders, much of the burden will be shared and that’s what Rashford needs.

It certainly would have been ideal to have both Sanchez and Lukaku as additional options but what’s the point of having unhappy players in the dressing room? Players who longer wanted to be a part of the project. It’s only right Solskjaer cut his losses.

It is fair to say the injuries to players such as Martial, Lingard and Paul Pogba haven’t helped, but Martial’s return brings a much a needed dimension to an otherwise stale attack. The understanding and brilliance conjured up with Rashford against Norwich is certainly something to build on moving forward. It is imperative Solskjaer keeps both players fit as the season progresses.

Against Liverpool, Solskjaer sprung a tactical surprise, a formula which in the long-term could become a solution to his attacking issues. The 3-4-1-2 formation gave United solidity within defence and midfield along with the opportunity to counter efficiently and quickly with Marcus Rashford and Daniel James playing as the split strikers – attacking players who broke quickly using the wings – either side of Andreas Pereira who played effectively as the teams main creative outlet on the ball. He reverted back to the 4-2-3-1 against Norwich formation, but the change in set-up showed the Norwegian’s tactical flexibility and his ability to adapt and counter his opponents threats.

Below is the system Solskjaer used against Liverpool at Old Trafford:

The change in system worked simply because it brought the best out of the players that Solskjaer had at his disposal and allowed him to fully neutralise Liverpool’s attacking threat. United showed great fight, spirit and organisation that they so regularly lack. Rashford’s goal against Liverpool was the result of United’s efficiency on the counter-attack, with Daniel James picking up the ball from McTominay and expertly beating his marker to play a fine cross for Marcus Rashford score. United may not have enjoyed the fair share of possession but they were still effective and dangerous when on the counter. It was the same story against Norwich, Daniel James crossing from the right into space and perfectly onto Rashford’s sumptuous first touch, he then exquisitely finished through the legs of Tim Krul to put United 2-0 up.

It’s been a recurring theme of United not looking comfortable in possession struggling to break teams down. Their approach play looking laboured and lacking any inventiveness though it remarkably changed at Carrow Road. It was another fine example as to how important Anthony Martial has been to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer:

As well as looking threatening on the counter, the presence of the French forward gave United much movement and freedom in attack. Most importantly, a needed presence to engage Norwich’s centre-backs, it gave Daniel James and Marcus Rashford the opportunity to effectively fill those spots in between the centre-backs and the full-backs creating uncertainty in Norwich’s frail defensive unit.

Against an admittedly open Norwich team, United scored more goals than they had managed on all their previous away days this season combined. It was simply down to the partnership of Martial and Rashford and one that Solskjaer promised ‘will grow’ in future. With Paul Pogba out until December, much of the onus will be on Martial and Rashford to provide United with the creative spark they need.

There is a greater need for much improvement and emphasis on United’s attacking play but the victory over Norwich highlighted the exciting potential Solskjaer possesses in his arsenal, with the return to fitness of Anthony Martial, United fans may just have the strike partnership they have been seeking for quite a long while.

Solskjaer could well just have his own ‘Yorke & Cole’.

 

It’s clear to see since Aymeric’s Laporte’s injury that Pep Guardiola and Manchester City are in need of reinforcements in defence. Maybe it was a mistake to allow Vincent Kompany to leave so early. Even so, it was probably a mistake not to add to their defensive pool in the summer window. Without the qualities of Laporte, City’s defensive alternatives are stretched. John Stones has been given enough opportunities to prove himself, but has failed. Nicolas Otamendi is always seen as the weak-link amongst Guardiola’s defence and with Laporte out till February, Stones keeping the treatment table warm regularly and the evergreen defensive midfielder Fernandinho filling in, there is a desperate need to make improvements to the defence. A defence that could lead to Guardiola relinquishing his Premier League title to Liverpool.

So who could Guardiola look at, to solve his recurring centre-back issue? He should look no further than Aston Villa’s centre-back maestro.

Tyrone Mings.

Composed. Assured. Dominant. Despite the terrible racist chants and abuse aimed at him from the Bulgaria fans in England’s rampant 6-0 victory, it was a debut to remember for Aston Villa’s Tyrone Mings. Those three words mentioned aren’t even enough to describe Mings’ consummate performance alongside Harry Maguire in defence. As well as impressing Southgate on his first start for his country, the Villa captain also put in a strong case to be Maguire’s permanent partner in England’s back-line, a position that has continued to become a problem for Southgate and his backroom staff.

John Stones, Michael Keane and Joe Gomez have all been tried and tested but to no avail, and it is about time Gareth Southgate looked elsewhere to attempt a ‘trial and error’ method, and the Bulgaria game gave the former Middlesborough player and coach an indication that Mings could become his long-term solution to partner with Harry Maguire.

Not just on paper, but by the stature and presence of both Maguire and Mings, England’s centre-back pairing could be formidable. We all know the qualities Maguire possesses but we also need to take a closer look at Tyrone Mings. A player that has undeservedly been under the radar as much as his England defensive counter part.

The Aston Villa captain’s rise to prominence has been remarkable.

It’s crazy and absurd to think that – having just made his dream debut for the England national team – there was a time when Mings was on the verge of walking away from football. Dropped by Southampton’s academy for being ‘too small’ – he is now a towering 6ft 5in presence – he was close to giving up on non-league football at Yate Town and Chippenham Town because he couldn’t drive and was struggling to pick up minutes on the pitch. He was a long way away from making a living in the game, having being turned down for a simple job at his local corner shop and ending up working mortgage broker. It seemed as though it would be a football talent wasted.

None of those setbacks stopped Mings, though. The Bath-based player preserved and was resilient to fulfil his aspirations. His fortunes changed when he received a call-up from Mick McCarthy to ply his trade at Ipswich Town in December 2012. Snapped up from Chippenham Town for £10,000 – it was a signing that seemed a real coup for McCarthy and Ipswich Town.

Mings had to bide his time at the club, but his chance at first-team football came in the summer of 2014 when Aaron Cresswell was snapped up by West Ham for £3.75million. Mings never looked back after that, making the left-back position his own, grabbing the opportunity with both hands. Fast, powerful, athletic and bursting with such confidence, Mings was a key part of that unheralded Blues team which made an unlikely run to the play-offs in the 2014/15 season.

He caught the eye of a number of Premier League outfits, and duly moved to Bournemouth in June 2015, in a deal initially worth £8million, which saw winger Ryan Fraser and striker Brett Pitman arrive at Portman Road. It was a move which hurt the Ipswich Town fans as Mings was a player who endeared himself to them so faithfully through his character, drive and commitment. He was also a person who gave back to his community, feeding the homeless and paying for new team shirts for some frustrated fans after he changed his shirt number from 15 to 3.

Mings’ time at Bournemouth was blighted by injury though, only making 10 Premier League starts in four years. His career seemed to spiralling out of control considering the amount of injuries he suffered but again he was offered a lifeline, moving to Villa on loan in January 2019, becoming the fulcrum of what was a successful Championship season as the club won promotion to the Premier League. He joined the club on a permanent basis last summer for a fee of around £26million.

At Aston Villa, Mings has become a born leader, a player who has finally realised and is harnessing his powerful and domineering abilities. He has become such a leader and a massive presence in the dressing room in such a short space of time. You could argue his experiences and struggles earlier on in his career has made him the player he is today.

It is unlikely Mings will have the desire to leave come January, he is the main man at Villa Park, and is embarking on a journey to become one of the most established centre-backs of his generation, and it will take huge money for Guardiola to prize him away providing he is interested in his services. However, Mings is someone Guardiola will have to look at as a long-term solution to his defensive issues. Also, we know the leadership qualities Kompany brought to the table, even when he wasn’t playing and that is what City require both now and in the near future, and there is arguably no better leader around than Tyrone Mings.

Mings has deserved all the plaudits coming his way right now, becoming the forefront of Villa’s push to remain in the big time. His dominance aerially, composure in possession, defensive positioning and awareness as well as his tall frame is a huge asset for Dean Smith at Villa Park.

It is more likely that Guardiola will look on foreign soil for his centre-back addition but the Spanish coach should look closer to home. With Phil Foden, John Stones, Raheem Sterling and Kyle Walker the only English players in his talented squad, the addition of Mings will boost his home-grown quota and provide him with a player who surely has to be considered as one of the best English talents around. Tyrone Mings deserves his spot at the pinnacle of English football, and who better to take him to that point in his career than the great Pep Guardiola.

Next stop for Tyrone Mings, Manchester City? On the surface, it looks the perfect match.

The clash between Brighton and Aston Villa last weekend was a smashing spectacle. Two teams with contrasting styles and with two managers with a point to prove as they settle into life within new territory. Nine games in, neither of Graham Potter and Dean Smith are disappointing so far

Certainly, the scoreboard showed Villa’s 2-1 triumph, but it was a far cry from the truth. Dean Smith’s Aston Villa side were played off the park in the first half as Brighton’s mesmerising, intricate and scintilating football completely bamboozled the Villa Park faithful. It was Brighton who took the lead and deservedly so through a well-worked free-kick, like something straight out of the training ground as Brighton defender Adam Webster nodded in Pascal Gros’ well-worked delivery

Aston Villa might easily have been counting the cost of their shortcomings had Brighton kept a full complement of players on the pitch. Had it not been for Aaron Mooy’s stupidity – a full-fledged tackle on Jack Grealish – the outcome of the game could have been much different and Villa could have been staring at another defeat.

However, Mooy’s incompetence led to the brilliance and inspiration of one man. A player who is truly deserving of all the plaudits coming his way, and a player looking right at home in the Premier League.

Villa’s awfully talented captain Jack Grealish.

With the onlooking England coach Gareth Southgate, it was the attacking midfielder who stood head and shoulders above everyone else on the pitch, which really is no feat considering the player is only 5ft 7in. The Brighton game was the perfect platform for Grealish to showcase his outstanding form. Every piece of Villa’s attacking play had Grealish at the centre of it, like an orchestrator at a fine and elegant soap opera. Every attack had Grealish dictating its direction truly reflected in Villa’s dramatic stoppage time winner. It was something out of the extraordinary as he picked up the ball outside the box, and almost seamlessly beat two of his markers with some intricate and swift piece of footwork which simultaneously led to a perfectly waited pass into the path of Matt Target to smash home the winner.

If Southgate doesn’t admire the talents of Grealish on this blockbuster display then we truly don’t know what will. Grealish’s performance against Brighton isn’t the first of his highlight reels so far this season. Nine games in, and it is simply one of many. Gregg Evans, an Aston Villa writer at the well-renowned Sports website The Athletic reports that Jack Grealish takes spontaneous naps at Villa’s training complex. So focused is he on becoming one of the most elite attacking midfield players in the Premier League that he holds extra individual training sessions and ‘sleeps on site after lunch to prepare his body.’ It is firmly believed that the 24-year-old is in Southgate’s thoughts for the next England squad which will be drafted in November.

As well as his naps, it is reported that the midfielder has also changed the way he eats and has recently hired a personal chef to aid him in maximising his performance. The chef, also an expert in sports nutrition, provides Grealish with daily meals and endurance-enhancing snacks to help his training regime. It’s no wonder you’ll find Grealish still full of energy in the closing minutes of matches. For too long, Grealish had been rotting away in the Championship – not to say he wasn’t performing brilliantly over there – but its in the Premier League where his gifts truly need to be celebrated.

It’s amazing how far Grealish has come seamlessly fitting into this new calibre of territory even promising Dean Smith, his manager, that there is more to come from him:

“He keeps telling me that I haven’t seen the best of him yet and he’s still growing as a player.”

A frightening thought even for the Aston Villa faithful. If Grealish really can take his game to another level against the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool in the coming weeks ahead, then it won’t only be Southgate who will be standing up and taking notice. Probably potential future suitors.

Much of the credit must be given to Dean Smith. Since his arrival from the reigns of the dugout in Brentford in 2018, Grealish has been provided with a new lease of life. Before then, we knew the talents Grealish harboured but it was that youthful arrogance and petulance at times that seemed to have flawed him. However, Smith’s arrival and his decision in placing Grealish leader in the dressing room has humbled him and the constant hard-work and graft has awarded the player with the recognition he deserves.

Deployed on the left of a front three in a 4-3-3 setup, Grealish has been given the freedom by Dean Smith to roam from his position and naturally take up telling spaces in between the lines allowing him to fully exploit the gaps in between the opponents back-line and midfield. It is through that area that Grealish ever so effortlessly weaves his magic. Jinking through opposition challenges, linking up play with the big front-man Wesley, carving out openings and chances for himself as well as his team-mates is what makes Grealish the beating heart of the teams attacking play. He is at the centre of everything. If he carries on at this sort of level, then Southgate will really have some serious selection headaches. It’s not only Grealish that is impressing, but Mason Mount and James Maddison are also staking their claim so far this season. It really is exciting that England now have such a talented and exuberant pool of young, bright and excellent attacking midfielders.

Jack Grealish is certainly amongst the top of that pool right now.

Two goals and three assists in nine Premier League games is no easy feet, especially when you’ve just come up from the second division. What is for certain though, is that Grealish is raising a fair amount of eyebrows. At the end of the Brighton game, Grealish was truly heralded by the Villa faithful, leaving the pitch to some rapturous applause. Sooner rather than later, he may just be doing the same for England.

Boldly, Mauricio Pochettino declared Dele Alli as the best player in his age group early in the Englishman’s Tottenham career. Eighteen months in, though, the player finds his career at a sticking point and the manager wondering if he must eat his words. Once a key component in Gareth Southgate’s squad, starting every knockout game for England during the World Cup, he is now on the periphery. What’s happened to Tottenham’s poster boy?

When Pochettino made his statement, Harry Kane was injured. The Argentine needed a few good performances from the players who were available. Whether or not the boss was sincere, Alli responded, scoring twice against Real Madrid in the Champions League.

That was two years ago. If ever there was an opportunity for Alli to get his career back on track, it was the Champions League match against Bayern Munich. Instead, he failed remarkably as Spurs were trounced at home 7-2.

It was a missed opportunity. Still only 23, there’s time to recover. Alli reportedly hired a nutritionist and cut back on commercial appearances to focus on rediscovering his mojo. Whether or not the changes work remains to be seen.

While 2018/19 was a season to remember for Spurs, not so much for Alli. He failed to hit the net in Tottenham’s run to the Champions League final or at all since January. It’s no wonder Southgate overlooks him for the England squad. He struggles to find a place in Pochettino’s starting XI. 

Since his return from injury in September, Alli featured in four games of eight. The three he started against Olympiakos, Colchester and Bayern all ended in disappointment, not just for the team as a whole, but Dele himself. He flattered to deceive.

The blame cannot be placed on him alone. The whole Tottenham squad is going through a rough patch. But it’s been a long while since we’ve experienced the magic Alli can conjure. In 2016/17, he scored 18 goals in 37 Premier League games, winning a second consecutive PFA Young Player of the Year award.

Since then, he has only hit 15 in 64. It’s not just the goals and assists that dried up. Alli’s numbers for dribbles, distance covered, shots and key passes also faded drastically. Last season was his worst in every category.

Against Liverpool on the weekend, Pochettino relied heavily on Alli and Christian Eriksen to exert their creative influence. Both failed miserably. Alli created zero chances for himself or teammates, made no key passes and took only one of-target shot [WhoScored]. His passing accuracy was a sub-par 71%.

So, why aren’t we seeing the spontaneous, clinical Dele Alli whose linkup play with Harry Kane was pure telepathy?

The short answer is Son Heung-min. The South Korean’s rise precipitates Alli’s fall. His marauding runs, constant movement in the final third, relentless harrying of opponents and, in Alli’s absence, his connection with Kane, make him the complete performer Dele used to be. Son assumed his teammate’s former role and won’t vacate it. Alli must find a new way to contribute.

The former MK Dons starlet used to be one of the first names on the team sheet. Now there is plenty of competition for places. Alli is no longer preferred to Eriksen, Lucas Moura and Erik Lamela and he will soon have Giovani Lo Celso, also 23 and coming back from injury, to provide further competition.

Even for England, you just cannot find a spot for Alli with a host of new players for Southgate to choose, James Maddison, Ross Barkley, Raheem Sterling, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho to list a few. Then there is Callum Hudson-Odoi and Mason Mount making names for themselves. The way things are looking, it’s difficult for Alli to find a space in either Tottenham or England’s line-up.

 

From having the world at his decorated feet, Dele Alli is now a player with all its weight on his shoulders.

The moment he received the pass from Willian, you just knew he’d have the confidence to swiftly take the ball in his stride and place the ball beyond the despairing Angus Gunn to fire Chelsea to a 2-goal lead. It was a goal truly reflecting of a player who is rewarding the belief and trust placed in him with his quality and assured performances. Mason Mount is taking in the rigours of the Premier league like a duck to water.

Chelsea’s 4-1 thrashing of Southampton at St Mary’s – a tough place to visit even for the best sides – was simply another rendition of the impact and belief that Frank Lampard is instilling into his young and fledgling Chelsea team. Lampard is building an exciting project at Stamford Bridge, and Sunday’s victory was another example as to how far this team can go. Fikayo Tomori, Kurt Zouma, Reece James Callum Hudson-Odoi, Tammy Abraham mixed with the experience of Marcos Alonso, Cesar Azpilicueta, Antonio Rudiger, Jorginho, Willian and N’golo Kante, it seems as though Lampard has inherited and is moulding a squad that could become a dominant force in the Premier League over the next few years.

There are more names in their youth setup that will surely be given the chance to strut their stuff in the Lampard era. It is a testament to the nature and qualities of Chelsea’s academy. Certainly many of these players have fallen victim to the dreaded loan system. No player wants to spend time away from their parent clubs but it is the development and experience that matters and most of Lampard’s starters have made full use of their experiences elsewhere. The way the 2019/20 season is shaping up, Lampard’s youngsters have been fully refined during their time spent away from Stamford Bridge.

Portsmouth born Mason Mount will surely have marvelled in his goal and performance against south-coast rivals Southampton. Not allowing the emotion of the occasion to stop him in his stride. His maturity levels and understanding of the game are what is shaping Mount to become one of the most exciting players to grace the English top-flight this season. 4 Premier League goals from 8 games illustrates just how crucial he is to Lampard’s mission.

Everything has literally fallen into place for Chelsea and Frank Lampard. Many will have written off their chances for success this campaign because of their inability to sign new players as a result of their transfer embargo, but the kind of players that were ready to make the step up from youth level to the first team meant that Lampard really didn’t need the stress of recruiting and implementing foreign imports to his squad. The question remains, had Chelsea stuck with Sarri and not had the transfer ban, would the likes of Tammy Abraham, Fikayo Tomori and Mason Mount been given the opportunity to flourish? It’s debatable but its a question that needs no plausible answer as Chelsea are indeed entering a new era and there is much reason to believe that it could be an exciting ride.

Relying on Eden Hazard to provide their creative spark was one thing; leaning on a 20-year-old who has played in all of Chelsea’s eight games is quite another. Yet, it is the reality for Chelsea, but the way in which Mount has expressed himself on the grand stage will be a huge encouragement for Lampard. It’s as if the academy graduate is becoming the leader of Chelsea’s creative pack, one which relied so heavily on Eden Hazard but now the mantle is taking on by the ever impressive Mason Mount. Certainly, replacing the qualities and brilliance of Hazard does not come without its pressure but it is one that Mount has the ability and the character to potentially thrive in rather than buckle under. His track record tells its own story. Mount was the creative leader during his loan spell at Chelsea’s sister-club Vitesse Arnhem where he forced Chelsea’s hierarchy to stand up and take notice. In a remarkable first full career season during the 2017/18 campaign, he played 39 games for the Dutch outfit contributing in 23 goals (14 goals, and 9 assists) which all came in the Dutch Eredivisie. Such extraordinary numbers for a player making his mark at just 18 at the time.

Mount’s improvement and development obviously didn’t stop there though. It was under Frank Lampard at Derby County where he built his reputation further. Along with Harry Wilson – now at Bournemouth on loan from Liverpool – they became the key creative elements in Lampard’s free-flowing and exciting attacking philosophy. Mount’s overall number may not have hit the heights of his days at Vitesse but his time at Pride Park was another example as to why Mount has the personality and character to thrive when faced with the pressure of becoming the teams main creative threat. 11 goals and 5 assists in all competitions in the Championship is really no practical joke. Mason Mount is the man for the occasion.

What is so uniquely impressive of Lampard’s approach is the aura he has created amongst his youngsters that there is room for mistakes but its learning from them, that’s the most important thing. It’s that sort of atmosphere that has Mount blossoming into such a fine player. His energy, tenacity especially without the ball is a unique trait in Lampard’s style, his goal against Leicester City earlier in the season for example, it was his determination and energy pressurising Wilfried Ndidi in possession which ultimately led to his cool finish past Kasper Schmeichel. That’s the licence Lampard is giving Mount, and he is rewarding the managers faith with aplomb. The youngster simply has the lot. Excellent on the ball with his close-control, technical skill and his uniqueness to simply weave past defenders and find pockets of space to become effective in the final third of play.

Mason Mount has been deployed in a variety of positions under Lampard so far this season, whether its on the left of a attacking midfield trio in a 4-2-3-1 formation or even as a no.8 within the midfield trident in a 4-3-3 formation, another reflection of the kind of versatility an flexibility that Mount provides Lampard when faced with particular teams. However, it is centrally where Mount truly thrives.

Against Southampton, he lined up in the middle of the attacking trio, and his abilities was there for all to see, picking dangerous positions in between the lines in the middle of the oppositions midfield and defence in order conjure up chances for his team mates. It’s his willingness an bravery to demand the ball even in tight areas of the pitch or when being pressed. The belief and confidence in his own ability is what sets him apart from the rest. There’s no wonder why he has earned a well deserved call up to Gareth Southgate’s England setup and even high praise. As well as being one of the first names on Lampard’s team-sheet, can he do the same for England despite the healthy competition with the likes of club teammate Ross Barkley and Leicester City’s James Maddison. There is simply no stopping Mount becoming a key figure for Southgate both now and next summer in Euro 2020.

 

Unquestionably, Mount’s best position is within no.10 role but that’s not to say he can’t do a job coming in off the left-hand side as he has done on various occasions so far this season. Wherever Lampard calls him to play, he just seems to perform so effortlessly. His almost telepathic understanding with Tammy Abraham and Willian means it really doesn’t doesn’t matter which position he plays, he is more than capable of fulfilling his duties to great effect. It’s the simple reason that Mount has now taken Barkley’s no.10 role and with Callum Hudson-Odoi returning from injury, Lampard may now have his settled 11 as shown above.

After all, Chelsea have a squad packed with consummate and established internationals. There is little to suggest that likes of Pedro and Willian have been waiting for Eden Hazard’s departure before they can step out of his shadow. Both players have been as equally as important for the club. However, both players have been unable to dominate games like the Belgian has done, and that’s where the roles of Mount and Barkley come in. The latter has been consistently on and off as of late and would need to show Lampard more if he is to become a permanent fixture in the first eleven. Not only Barkley, but Christian Pulisic, has also struggled to stake a claim so far this season. However, patience must be given to the American wonderkid and it is only a matter of time before he rediscovers his mojo and becomes as vitally important as Mount, Hudson-Odoi and Willian.

Nonetheless, with Mason Mount in this sort of rapid form, there is no stopping him progressing into one of the top midfield talents along the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Paul Pogba, David Silva and James Maddison. The way Mount is playing, you can almost be forgiven for placing his name without that classy bracket. Amongst a number of bright young gems in this squad, Lampard has undoubtedly found his diamond in a rough.

 

 

Lille are a team that is well on the rise. The fact that they are plied their trade in this years elite European competition – their first time in over 6 years – is a further testament as to why this team is one to certainly keep an eye on in the near future.

The cancellation of the season has seen the club finish fourth in the league table, capturing yet another Champions League spot for next season, along with surprise outfits Marseille and Rennes along with champions Paris Saint-Germain.

Filled with gifted, technical, skilful and pacey players, this is a team set out to excite.

Lille were the success story of the season before last, finishing second behind Paris Saint-Germain in the French 2018/19 league standings. However, after losing highly influential players most notably in Nicolas Pepe and Rafael Leao, moving to Arsenal and AC Milan respectively, many fans feared that their club’s rise was falling fast.

Though, those departures now seem a distant memory. Thanks to the shrewd and astute work done behind the scenes by sporting director Luiz Campos, Lille now hold an attacking talent that looks as every bit capable as the departing pair.

There may have been groans at the sight of losing such gifted performers in Nicolas Pepe, but the Lille faithful marvelled at the feet of yet another potential world class talent in Nigerian wonderkid Victor Osimhen. It won’t be for much longer though, with a move to Italian giants Napoli all but completed.

At just 21-years of age, with 13 goals in Ligue 1 and two Champions League goal on his resume, Osimhen has quickly established himself as one of the brightest young forwards in European football. Snapped up from Belgian outfit Charleroi for just €12m (£15.5m) last summer, the Nigerian striker has taken no time in settling in to his new surroundings. When he made the move this summer, little did he know he would come flying out of the blocks so quickly, now he is a player deserving of the high praise he has received so far, forcing fans across Europe to stand up and take notice.

Having suffered from some physical issues during his time at Bundesliga outfit Wolfsburg, a temporary spell in Belgium was just the kick-start he needed to propel his career once again. It was at Sporting Charleroi where Osimhen quickly restored his confidence. The Nigerian scored 12 times in 25 top-flight appearances in Belgium, and it is because of his blistering form in Belgium, that he garnered the attention of French outfit Lille.

Wolfsburg may have underestimated a player who made the most rapid and decisive start to a Ligue 1 career since Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.

Victor Osimhen’s blistering start to life has also taken him to the clubs history books, his goal against Strasbourg in February in a 2-0 victory took his tally that day to six goals in seven games, which made him the fastest Lille signing to reach those figures in over 50 years. A remarkable feat.

The Nigerian young striker has shown no signs of slowing down either. His form played a huge part in allowing the fans and board to quickly forget about Nicolas Pepe. The Ivorian was involved in 33 (22 goals, 11 assists) of Lille’s 68 goals last year in which they finished behind Paris Saint-Germain. Pepe’s goal return accounted for 48 percent of Lille’s goals last season, and his departure would have been felt greatly.

As well as his 13 strikes in the French league, Osimhen also laid on 4 assists taking his overall involvement to 17 out of Lille’s 35 league goals meaning he matched Nicolas Pepe’s goal-involvement from the previous year.

The Nigerian’s rise to prominence has taken everyone by storm, though.

We are talking about a young man who had to endure the passing of his mother early in his life and the fact that he grew up in a poor and unstable neighbourhood, scrounging for football boots in the dump as a young adolescent. He was even diagnosed with a bout of malaria, which played a role in his failed trials with Club Brugge and Zulte Waregem, however, these obstacles could not stop the youngster from pushing for the top, and that determination to beat such illnesses and press on is truly evident in his performances on the pitch.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYjYvP2ktvo

As well as being a threat in front of goal, its his tenacious energy both with the ball and without it sets him apart from the rest. His understanding with French international winger Jonathan Ikone is simply devastating. This is a kid that is already drawing quick comparisons to former Chelsea player and legend Didier Drogba, and the way in which he took his goal against Chelsea; a bullet header from a corner certainly took a leaf out of Drogba’s book.

Victor Osimhen is not only a reliable goalscorer with his shot conversion rate at an impressive 13.8, but his all-round play is a standout feature in his game. Whenever he’s presented with the opportunity to create chances for his fellow forwards, he’s unselfish enough to lay the ball on a plate for them. He’s a striker who loves doing the dirty work, pressing from the front, or using his languid and lean build to hold off his markers and link with his teammates. He’s a freight train when at full throttle, running down the wings or chasing down loose balls.

Another element to keep a close eye on is whether Osimhen can become the main man up-front for his country. No.9 has become a bit of a problem position for Nigeria over the last decade. Current options such as Odion Ighalo, Ahmed Musa and Kelechi Iheanacho have flattered to deceive at times, and maybe it is time for Osimhen to take the reigns. He’s certainly got the charisma and abilities required to lead his country.

The current Nigeria squad is currently blessed with a wealth of fresh young talents such as Wilfried Ndidi, Henry Onyekeru, Josh Maja, Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Samuel Chukwueze, and Joe Aribo. What’s to stop Osimhen becoming the main man within such an exciting generation of yongsters? With the striker hopefully leading the line for years to come, the future surely does look bright for the Nigeria national team.

Osimhen already looks a prospect built for Serie A, his reported next destination. His raw assets are formidable, possessing that unique instinct of getting into the right goal scoring positions, and even in the areas where he needs to improve, he has already demonstrated that he has the capacity and hunger to progress.

For now, those Didier Drogba comparisons seem a long way off. However, there is no doubting Osimhen’s abilities and his formidable time France already shows he is on the right lines to progress into a future star.

He is on course to becoming Africa’s most expensive player providing he completes his moves to Naples for a reported €50m fee + potential add ons.

Victor Osimhen to Napoli, confirmed and here we go! Tomorrow the deal will be completed for €50M + add ons to Lille. Osimhen is going to sign until June 2025 as new Napoli player. ✍🏻🔵 #transfers #Napoli https://t.co/4cHtH02uGr

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 27, 2020

Napoli manager Gennaro Gattuso may just have the striker he so desperately needs in Osimhen. He’s a different breed to Milik or Mertens and will provide them with such a raw and efficient weaponry up front. The Nigerian forward is a fighter, a real fox in the box, and a striker not afraid to do the dirty work from the front too. Just the kind of characteristics Gattuso craves.

Victor Osimhen + Napoli may be match formed in heaven.