Preview: Liverpool vs. Brighton & Hove Albion - prediction, team news, lineups

Liverpool will be looking to return to winning ways in the Premier League when they host Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield on Saturday.

The visitors, meanwhile, will be competing in their first match under new manager Roberto De Zerbi.

Match preview

The fact that the Reds cannot overtake Brighton in the table even if they beat them at the weekend shows what a slow start the title hopefuls have made to the campaign.

Indeed, Liverpool have won only two of their six league games so far, although their upcoming fixture against Brighton will be their first domestic match for four weeks due to a combination of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and the recent international break.

Jurgen Klopp's side were disappointing against Everton in a 0-0 draw at Goodison Park, although both teams had chances to win the Merseyside derby, with Jordan Pickford performing excellently to deny the likes of Darwin Nunez and Mohamed Salah.

The Reds did manage to claim a victory in their last match, though, with Joel Matip's 89th-minute header helping them to a 2-1 win against Ajax in the Champions League. Having been thrashed 4-1 by Napoli in their opening group game, those extra two points could prove crucial in terms of helping them through to the knockout stage.

Their attention must return to improving their league form and position, though, with Anfield likely to be full of vigor having gone so long since last seeing their team play. However, having drawn against Brighton at home last season, Klopp will be all too aware of the potential banana skin facing his team, especially with a new manager in the opposition dugout.



Like their forthcoming opponents, Brighton have not played in the Premier League for almost four weeks, with Graham Potter's last game in charge of the club prior to his move to Chelsea turning out to be a thumping 5-2 win over Leicester City.

The Seagulls showed excellent resolve to come from behind after Kelechi Iheanacho opened the scoring within the first minute, with Patson Daka levelling the scoreline to make it 2-2 at half time.

Alexis Mac Allister was in excellent form on the day - as he has been for much of the season since dropping to a deeper midfield role - and capped his performance by scoring from the penalty spot before curling a delightful free kick beyond the reach of Danny Ward. The Argentina international could have had a hat-trick, but saw his vicious strike from the edge of the area disallowed for a tight offside call.

It remains to be seen how quickly and dramatically De Zerbi looks to change what had proven to be an increasingly winning formula under Potter, who helped his side to 13 points from the opening six games of the season.

The Italian became known for implementing a very attacking style at Sassuolo in Serie A, but he is unlikely to go gung ho from day one, especially with a trip to Anfield representing one of the toughest managerial debuts any manager could face.

Liverpool Premier League form:

D

D

L

W

W

D

Liverpool form (all competitions):

L

W

W

D

L

W

Brighton & Hove Albion Premier League form:

W

D

W

W

L

W

Brighton & Hove Albion form (all competitions):

D

W

W

W

L

W

Team News



Liverpool will remain without Andrew Robertson (knee), Naby Keita (thigh), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (hamstring), Calvin Ramsay (back) and Kaide Gordon (pelvis) for the visit of Brighton on Saturday.

However, Ibrahima Konate, Curtis Jones and Caoimhin Kelleher could all be available to be named in the matchday squad for the first time in a competitive match this season, although the trio may not be risked given the amount of games to come in October.

Jordan Henderson also returned from injury to make a late cameo for England during the Three Lions' 3-3 draw against Germany on Monday, and he could be named in the starting XI in order to provide valuable experience in midfield.

Diogo Jota, who created Salah's opener against Ajax and generally looked lively in a central role, is likely to receive the nod ahead of Nunez and Roberto Firmino having fully recovered from a hamstring injury.

Brighton, meanwhile, will travel without Jakub Moder (knee) and Adam Lallana (calf), who will be desperately disappointed to miss out on playing against his former club.

De Zerbi generally favoured a 4-2-3-1 formation at Sassuolo, but he may retain Potter's preferred back three system for now, with the 43-year-old unlikely to make many changes to the starting XI that thrashed Leicester last time out.

Enock Mwepu has been suffering from a fever, though, which ruled him out of competing for Zambia during the international break, and he is likely to be left at home as a precaution.

As such, Leandro Trossard could move further up the pitch, with wing-backs Tariq Lamptey and Pervis Estupinan potentially fighting for a spot on the opposite flank to Solly March. The former could win that particular duel in order to allow March to play on his natural left side.

Liverpool possible starting lineup:

Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Henderson, Fabinho, Thiago; Salah, Jota, Diaz

Brighton & Hove Albion possible starting lineup:

Sanchez; Veltman, Dunk, Webster; Lamptey, MacAllister, Caicedo, March; Gross, Trossard; Welbeck

We say: Liverpool 2-1 Brighton & Hove Albion

We expect Brighton to come flying out of the traps under their new manager and make life very difficult for Liverpool.

However, the Reds showed some signs of returning to their best against Ajax, and they should be able to get over the line in the end.

For data analysis of the most likely results, scorelines and more for this match please click here.

Top tip

Our expert tipster partners at Sporita.com are predicting a home win in this match. Click here to find out what else they are predicting for this game and for more of their tried-and-tested football tips.

Previews by email

Click here to get Sports Mole's daily email of previews and predictions for every major game!

Share this article now:

     

LA

Read Next:

Salah, Alisson, Fabinho left out of initial Liverpool pre-season squad

>

Arsenal XI vs Tottenham: Confirmed team news, predicted lineup and injury latest for Premier League derby

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was coy during Friday’s press conference ahead of the north London derby against Tottenham, with injury question marks over several key players.

Thomas Partey (knee), Kieran Tierney (head) and Takehiro Tomiyasu (unknown) all returned early from international duty, while Oleksandr Zinchenko did not join up with Ukraine after missing the victory over Brentford before the break due to a calf problem.

Zinchenko and Partey, in particular, have been key to Arsenal’s fine start to the season but Arteta refused to be drawn on whether either or both would be available to face Spurs on Saturday.

“They are part of the team,” Arteta said.

Meanwhile, Arteta added there is “no timeframe” on Emile Smith Rowe’s comeback after the midfielder underwent surgery on a long-standing groin problem.

Arteta reveals latest on ‘very difficult’ Smith Rowe injury blow

Arteta insists Arsenal have learned lessons from Tottenham implosion

Spluttering Spurs can target naive Arsenal’s soft centre in derby

Introducing a gold winner of 2022’s AXA Startup Angel competition

The England international has been struggling with the injury for several months and on Thursday the club confirmed he had gone under the knife and would not return to training until December at the earliest.

“After a surgery it’s very difficult to give a timeline,” Arteta said. “The first process, how his bones heal, how is his first reaction, is he in pain, is he not, how is he adapting? We need to go step by step. We know before the World Cup he’s not going to be involved and then we have a break and we have to use it in the right way.”

Arsenal predicted XI to face Tottenham (4-3-3): Ramsdale; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Odegaard, Xhaka, Partey; Saka, Jesus, Martinelli.

Preview: Arsenal vs. Tottenham Hotspur - prediction, team news, lineups

The Premier League returns following the international break with a blockbuster North London derby on Saturday lunchtime, as Arsenal play host to Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates.

One week after the women's teams made history in their North London derby, the men's crops will battle for supremacy and the chance to sit pretty at the top of the Premier League table.

A total of 47,367 supporters made the journey to the Emirates to watch Arsenal Women thump Tottenham 4-0 during the men's international break, and if Saturday's contest is anything as one-sided as the Women's Super League version, Gooners are in for a treat.

Taking after his namesake Patrick, Arsenal new boy Fabio Vieira scored the pick of the bunch as Arsenal ran out 3-0 winners over Brentford on September 18, during which William Saliba and Gabriel Jesus headed home for the dominant Gunners in the first half.

Having successfully avenged their 2-0 loss at the Brentford Community Stadium last year - irking some with their 'Nice kick about with the boys' comments - Arsenal ensured that they would head into the international break one point clear of Spurs and Manchester City in first place.

Ending a four-game run without a clean sheet was also a sight for Mikel Arteta's sore eyes, as his Arsenal side continue to demonstrate a ruthless streak notably absent in teams gone by, even if their only Big Six clash so far this season ended in a 3-1 defeat to Manchester United.

The hosts have also prevailed in each of their last six Premier League matches at their Emirates headquarters, although they have conceded at least one goal in all of them, and Tottenham's famed attacking line have more than one incentive to silence the home crowd.



After facing countless calls from Tottenham fans to drop the goalless Son Heung-min to the bench due, Antonio Conte's bold move paid dividends against Leicester City, as the South Korea international ended his profligate streak in some style.

Son was introduced into the match in the 59th minute, and by the 86th minute he was confirmed to be walking home with the match ball, as his 13-minute hat-trick complemented strikes from Harry Kane, Eric Dier and Rodrigo Bentancur in a 6-2 romping.

Conte joked that Son can expect to be benched week in week out if he delivers similar super-sub performances in the future, as Tottenham remain on the coat-tails of Arsenal and reigning champions Man City in third spot prior to the trip across the capital.

The Lilywhites bounced back from their Champions League disappointment at Sporting Lisbon in perfect fashion versus Leicester, but only two of their last seven competitive matches away from home have ended in victory, and the Emirates is not their happiest hunting ground.

A 3-1 Arsenal triumph in this fixture last season means that Spurs have failed to win any of their last 11 North London derbies away from home in the league, but they served their capital counterparts a slice of humble pie with a 3-0 win in May, and Conte's crop are not the same side that Nuno Espirito Santo led to their demise at the Emirates last term.

Arsenal Premier League form:

WArsenal Premier League form:

W

W

W

W

L

W

Arsenal form (all competitions):

W

W

W

L

W

W

Tottenham Hotspur Premier League form:

D

W

W

D

W

W

Tottenham Hotspur form (all competitions):

W

D

W

W

L

W

Team News



While Arsenal are sure to be without Mohamed Elneny (hamstring), Emile Smith Rowe (groin) and Cedric Soares (knock), there is optimism that Kieran Tierney, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Thomas Partey will all shake off their physical problems to be ready for the contest.

Takehiro Tomiyasu is also set to feature after his release from Japan due to 'club circumstances', while Martin Odegaard battled back from a knock to feature for Norway in the international break and will most likely demote Vieira to the bench.

Smith Rowe - who scored in this fixture last season - is now out until December after undergoing groin surgery, but there may be a place in the squad for Reiss Nelson as he aims to make his first competitive appearance of the year following a quadriceps injury.

A slice of personal history could also be on the line for Arteta, who is aiming to become only the third manager in Arsenal's history to win their first three league games against Spurs at home, following in the footsteps of George Morrell and Terry Neill.

Tottenham have concerns of their own on the injury front for Saturday's derby, as number one goalkeeper Hugo Lloris withdrew from France duty with a thigh injury, and it is currently unclear if he will be fit to return this weekend.

Lloris's issue was described as a small one, but Fraser Forster is on standby, and Conte will also hope to have Ben Davies (knee) and Lucas Moura (tendon) fit and available here.

Ivan Perisic has also been given the all-clear after being forced off for Croatia in the international break due to a rough challenge from teammate Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, but Dejan Kulusevski has reportedly returned to England with a hamstring problem.

The Sweden international is therefore a doubt for the contest, which could see Richarlison hold his spot in the attack, but there have been calls for Conte to switch to a 3-5-2 and introduce Yves Bissouma from the off.

Arsenal possible starting lineup:

Ramsdale; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Xhaka, Partey; Saka, Odegaard, Martinelli; Jesus

Tottenham Hotspur possible starting lineup:

Lloris; Romero, Dier, Lenglet; Perisic, Bentancur, Hojbjerg, Sessegnon; Richarlison, Kane, Son

We say: Arsenal 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur

Arsenal's streak of failing to keep clean sheets at home and Tottenham's consistent run of scoring against the Gunners bodes well for those in white, but a North London derby at the Emirates always seems to galvanise the home support.

Arteta's side could receive numerous fitness boosts, are demonstrating a far more effective ability to press high, and can recover well from in-game setbacks, which should help them to a narrow victory on Saturday against a Tottenham side who still have some questions to answer on the creative front.

For data analysis of the most likely results, scorelines and more for this match please click here.

Top tip

Jurgen Klopp explains Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota Liverpool training absence and confirms four injured players

Liverpool injury latest on Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Curtis Jones and Andy Robertson, with Jurgen Klopp also giving updates on Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota and others

Jurgen Klopp has eased concerns over Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez and says both are in contention for Liverpool's visit from Brighton on Saturday.

Neither striker was pictured in training at the AXA Centre on Thursday as Klopp and his staff welcomed back the players from their international commitments.

That sparked fears that both returned to Merseyside with problems to contend with but Klopp says they are ready for the meeting with Roberto De Zerbi's Seagulls this weekend as he provided an update on a host of injured players.

Some are still out, that's Andy Robertson, that's Curtis Jones, that's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, that's Naby Keita. Definitely these four [are out]," Klopp confirmed.

"Diaz and Jota? Yes, they came back from the international duty and it's how it always is [after] a long flight, I didn't see them yet, I have heard they are good.

"Darwin, [missing training] was a precaution after the games, same for Diogo, that's it I think."

Klopp also revealed the plans for Calvin Ramsay and Ibrahima Konate after both came back into the fold on Thursday.

Ramsay is yet to play for Liverpool since his summer move from Aberdeen while Konate's most recent appearance was the Champions League final in late May.

Klopp added: "Calvin is not ready to play but I am over the moon that he can train now, that's really good.

"He just needs to train, train, train and he will probably play for the Under-21s and he can get a game there because we play now all the time, that's fine.

"Caoimhin Kelleher, he will play this weekend for the U21s. He's obviously not had a game yet this season and hasn't played for a long time. He looks good in training and is completely fine.

"Ibou (Konate) looks good in training too, so, yes, he is completely back. For the weekend, it depends on training today but he is back and that is good

Arsenal continue to track Dusan Vlahovic as Former Gunner wants Arsenal to return for Serie A star

Kevin Campbell wants Arsenal to sign all the best players they can get, and now he is urging them to return for Dusan Vlahovic.

They have long admired the Serbian and desperately wanted to sign him when he played at Fiorentina.

But he chose a move to Juventus, where he has been playing until now.

He is not happy in Turin, and his goal return has been worse than at his former home.

This has opened the door for another club to sign him. However, should Arsenal reignite their interest?

Campbell thinks so even though they have since bolstered their attack with Gabriel Jesus.

He tells Football Insider:

Liverpool and Arsenal set to battle it out for £17.5m attacker

Liverpool and Arsenal are among the clubs set to battle it out for Norwegian striker Andreas Schjelderup.

Schjelderup is regarded as the next big talent to come out of Norway since Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. At just 18 years old, Schjelderup has already managed five goals in ten games this season for Nordsjaelland.

Now, according to Calcio Mercato  Liverpool and Arsenal are interested in the striker. The report claims that Nordsjaelland are holding out for around £17.5m for the attacker, and have already rejected a £3.5m bid from Sevilla.

Schjelderup’s contract is set to expire in 2024, meaning if the young forward wants to leave the club, he should be able to force a move next summer.

If Schjelderup refuses to sign a new contract in 2023, then Nordsjaelland will be forced to cash in to avoid losing him on a free transfer.

A move to Arsenal could be of interest to the Norwegian, as he can link up with fellow countrymen Martin Odegaard. Also, Mikel Arteta has shown immense faith in young players at Arsenal, so Schjelderup could be given a chance to impress sooner than at other clu

bs.

Thiago Alcantara's Mesmeric, He Is The Most Aesthetically Pleasing Footballer To Watch

Thiago Alcantara received a standing ovation at Anfield after producing arguably his best performance in a Liverpool shirt on Tuesday night.

The Reds moved to the top of the table after blitzing Manchester United for the second time this season, putting four past their rivals without reply to make it 9-0 on aggregate across two games.. 

Mo Salah struck twice, with Luis Diaz and Sadio Mane also on target in a wholly dominant performance from Jurgen Klopp's side.

But while it was the frightening front three who did the damage, Thiago was the best player on the pitch by a country mile.

United simply could not get near him during his 80 minutes on the pitch. He was always a step ahead, creating so much time and space for himself with shimmies and turns that had fans, viewers and commentators purring.

Jamie Carragher let out a few strange noises watching Thiago strut his stuff, while the iconic Peter Drury said the Spaniard "does things with football which ought to be illegal" during his commentary.

It was a perfect summary of Thiago as a footballer and he was truly a joy to watch in his latest outing. His passing, whether playing through the lines or switching the play across to the full-back or winger, was bang on the money.

In fact, in the first half, the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich man completed 98% of his passes - which is quite ridiculous accuracy when you think of it.

What's more, he had the most touches with 129, the most accurate passes with 105 and the most passes in the final third with 25.

They are a just a few of the areas he led in the statistics department.

Thiago has a special swagger about him on the pitch and genuinely plays like he's in his back garden. Bruno Fernandes tried to press him on a number of occasions but failed each time.

He beat him with his deft trademark turn and there was another instance where Thiago flicked the ball over his head and controlled it with ease.

Thiago is quite possibly the most aesthetically pleasing footballer in world football and everything he does looks easy on the eye.

But he was also extremely effective without the ball and made crucial interceptions and blocks to regain possession for his side - winning seven out of seven duels and completing three tackles and two interceptions.

Thiago himself downplayed his display post-match and focused on praising the team, but Klopp had no problem waxing lyrical over his No.6.

"Not bad eh? He is a world-class player. He can be pretty dangerous with and without the ball," Klopp told Sky Sports.

"Thiago played a good game. So from our point of view, there is really nothing to moan about. We really don't take this for granted.

"He didn't want to come off! He wanted to stay on the pitch - I like the desire behind that! He played a proper game. Football is outstanding, but his counter-pressing was mad. That makes the full package. I couldn't respect it more.

"He is an outstanding player. We have to make sure that he can keep his rhythm and that he can play as often as possible."

Martin Odegaard: Arsenal Captain highlights show how he dominated the game

Martin Odegaard is rather good, isn’t he?

The Arsenal midfielder ran the show against Leicester City at the weekend as the Gunners returned to the top four in the Premier League.

Mikel Arteta‘s side beat Brendan Rodgers‘ men 2-0 on Sunday at the Emirates to reclaim fourth place.

Thomas Partey put Arsenal one-nil up by the 11th minute with a towering header before Alexandre Lacazette doubled their lead in the second half after Leicester defender Caglar Soyuncu was penalised for handball following a lengthy review by VAR.

But it seems Odegaard’s showing certainly hasn’t gone unnoticed after a stunning highlight reel of the Norway international emerged on social media.

The 2mins 20sec montage shows the 23-year-old completely bossing the Leicester midfield like a prime Mesut Ozil.

In the clip, he can be seen spraying passes left, right and centre in the middle of the park.

WATCH: Martin Odegaard was dominant as Arsenal beat Leicester 2-0 on Sunday

Check out the video below…

Martin Odegaard vs Leicester City

Stepping up every game! #ARSLEI pic.twitter.com/LUKBaeqgaY

— ArsenalVideo (@arsenal_video) March 14, 2022

The former Real Madrid flop also showcased he has improved in every area of the pitch as he is shown repeatedly winning possession back for the Gunners.

One interception came in an attacking position on the edge of the box. But the pick of the bunch was arguably his perfectly-timed sliding tackle to incept a pass from Luke Thomas.

Unsurprisingly, Odegaard received lots of praise for his performance post-match, none more so than Arteta, who claimed ‘he’s come a long way since his arrival’.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “He was terrific again today, in every aspect of the game; what he had to do in defending, when we were high and deep; in build-up phases; in the final third, the way he understood and managed the game when he was needed.

“He’s come a long way since his arrival, he is showing great maturity and responsibility on the pitch and he makes the other players better, I think.”

WATCH: Are Chelsea’s problems good for Arsenal?

Check out the video below…

Arsenal paid Madrid £30 million to sign Odegaard last summer following a successful loan spell at the Emirates.

Asked if Odegaard should be considered a bargain with the benefit of hindsight, Arteta replied: “I don’t know, it’s still a bit early to say that.

“We were certainly convinced he was a player that could fit in our clubs, in with our morals.

“He has every value that we want players to represent this club, and then he has the quality for what we want to do.

“We are really happy with him.”

Jurgen Klopp replacement review He’ll be the next Liverpool manager”- Australian manager backed to succeed

Paul Slane backs Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou to be the next Liverpool manager

Speaking to Grosvenor Sport , former Celtic player Paul Slane has backed Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou to be the manager to succeed Jurgen Klopp on the manager’s hot seat at Liverpool.

Paul Slane shows immense praise for the Celtic manager, who, in his first season at the club won the Scottish Premiership. The 57-year-old Australian manager was the boss at Yokohama F.M before he took the role as Celtic’s manager in the summer of 2021.

“I think he’ll be the next Liverpool manager when Jurgen Klopp decides to go or Liverpool decide to part with him. Who else takes the Liverpool job after Klopp?”

Shane sounds pretty confident about the fact that the former manager of Australia would be the new manager of Liverpool, once Jurgen Klopp departs.

Jurgen Klopp signed a contract extension in April

Slane might be very receptive to the manager, considering he has been impressive since joining Celtic as a manager however, to claim that he can make the shift from Celtic to Liverpool is rather ridiculous.

Postecoglou started his career in the Japanese national league and then only managed teams in the Australian league before making the switch to Celtic. Considering he is a great manager, he would still need to do more in Europe to be considered among the top managers.

Notwithstanding the fact that Jurgen Klopp signed a contract extension in April which will keep him at the club until the end of the 2025/26 season, it would be wise to acknowledge that the German is here to stay and continue his project unless something drastic happens.

Klopp is the right man to take the club out of the current slump (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

The chances of Klopp being sacked are completely minimal with the board having full trust in a manager who has brought the successful times back at Anfield and made Liverpool one of the strongest teams in Europe.

Only last season we were competing for a historic quadruple and there is an acceptance that Liverpool have started the season slowly but ultimately Klopp is the right person to bring the team back to its best.

Liverpool XI vs Brighton: Predicted lineup, confirmed team news and injury latest for Premier League

Trent Alexander-Arnold will be glad to be back with his club as Liverpool host Brighton in the Premier League this weekend.

Domestic action returns after the international break, in which Alexander-Arnold played no part for England against Italy and was then dropped from the squad for the Germany clash, with the right-back looking increasingly likely to miss out on the World Cup.

There are no such selection issues for him at Liverpool, but on the opposite side of the pitch Andy Robertson is expected to be out, with the left-back not yet fully recovered from a knee injury. Kostas Tsimikas should start in his place.

Ibrahima Konate has not played at all this season due to a knee problem, but he is nearing a return and was pictured in full training ahead of Brighton’s visit to Anfield. He is unlikely to be rushed straight back into action though.

Gareth Southgate explains why Kieran Trippier is ‘ahead’ of Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold for England

Gareth Southgate explains why Kieran Trippier is ‘ahead’ of Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold for England

Jordan Henderson is also available again and will compete with Harvey Elliott for a spot in midfield, while Thiago is set to make his first Premier League appearance since the first weekend of the season.

Diogo Jota featured for Portugal against Spain during the international break and asked to be brought off in the second half, as he continues to build his fitness after missing pre-season. With Luis Diaz returning late from Colombia duty, Jota will be hoping to get the nod from Jurgen Klopp.

The Liverpool boss also has a decision to make through the middle. Roberto Firmino has three goals and three assists in his last two league starts at Anfield, but Darwin Nunez is also available.

Predicted Liverpool XI (4-3-3): Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Fabinho, Thiago, Elliott; Jota, Firmino, Salah.

Cristiano Ronaldo's sister admits Man Utd ace is "on his knees" and slams "sick" critics

Katia Aveiro has leapt to Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo's defence as her brother faces an unprecedented barrage of criticism in his native Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo's sister has accused Portugal fans of "spitting on the plate they eat from" as the Manchester United superstar faces an unprecedented wave of criticism in his homeland.

Katia Aveiro posted a lengthy message on social media leaping to her brother's defence after the Portuguese media called for him to be dropped for Tuesday night's Nations League clash with Spain. Anti-Ronaldo sentiment only increased after Portugal were defeated 1-0 by La Roja, although manager Fernando Santos insisted he will persist with the 37-year-old.

Ronaldo's struggles on the international stage come against the backdrop of a deeply-disappointing start to the season at club level. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has started just one Premier League game for United and his only goal came against Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League.

With her brother more in the spotlight than ever, Katia Aveiro has lashed out at Portugal fans, accusing them of being "sick", "petty" and "forever ungrateful" towards their captain and the leading goalscorer in men's international football. She also declared Ronaldo remains "the best player in the world" as she posted an Instagram story of him sat on the ground looking dejected during Portugal's defeat by Spain.

"He has his family and those who love him by his side. They will always be by his side, no matter what," the 44-year-old wrote of Ronaldo. "But the current times don't surprise me at all. The Portuguese spit on the plate they eat [from], it has always been that way. That's why when someone appears from the ashes and changes mentalities, it bothers... With you always, my king. Calm down."

Katia Aveiro then launched into an attack on her brother's detractors, adding: "It is necessary to give a hand to those who have always given theirs to Portugal. But the Portuguese are sick, petty, soulless, stupid, ungrateful and forever ungrateful. This guy who's sitting, he's on his knees... There's no one to give him a hand.

Liverpool receive huge boost as Jürgen Klopp can now fix issue using Champions League final star

Liverpool's defence hasn't been at its very best this season. But Jürgen Klopp will receive a timely boost from one of the stars of the Champions League final.

It hasn’t been a good season so far for Liverpool’s defenders.

Ever since the opening day of the season, the Reds have looked uncharacteristically poor, not to mention sloppy, at the back. Liverpool didn’t give away a single penalty in all of 2021/22, but Virgil van Dijk gave one away against Fulham on the opening day. He later followed that up with another one in the 4-1 humiliation against Napoli.

So it’s with that in mind that Klopp has received a defensive boost, with the news (RMC) that Ibrahima Konaté has been given permission to rejoin the squad. Konaté has been out since picking up an injury against Strasbourg in pre-seas

on training in July, and returned to his native France for treatment.

Konaté isn’t likely to be drafted straight into the first team by Klopp, given that he’s only just returned, but his return will no doubt be welcomed by the German coach.

Konaté was beginning to hit his stride towards the back end of last season. He needed to show patience in earning his position alongside Van Dijk, owing to the great form of Matip, but as the quadruple neared, Konaté begun to form a solid understanding with Van Dijk at the heart of the defence. He was probably the best man in red in the Champions League final

Liverpool should seize on £125m Inter Milan truth as second brutal year gives FSG transfer edge

Liverpool and FSG felt the effects of the pandemic, but made it through largely unscathed. That could give them major transfer leverage over Inter Milan

The pandemic hit essentially every football club over the last two years, but several in particular were hit very hard. FSG made themselves very unpopular with the attempted use of the furlough scheme, over which they backtracked, but in truth Liverpool avoided the worst effects.

Of the European royalty, Juventus, Barcelona and Inter Milan were undoubtedly rocked the most. Of course, their colossal losses weren’t just due to the effects of the pandemic. In the case of Juve and Barca, it was through reckless spending, living way beyond their means in transfer fees and wages.

In the case of Inter, it wasn’t that they were reckless in a Juventus or Barcelona kind of way, it was that they simply don’t generate the kind of revenue that allow them to compete at the highest levels of the European game. Antonio Conte’s arrival came with hefty requests from the fiery Italian in order to break the Old Lady's nine-year hegemony of the Italian game.

By the end of the 2020-21 season, Inter had indeed broken the run that Conte had himself initiated back when he was Juventus coach at the beginning of the 2010s. But that success, albeit seismic, came at a huge financial cost.

Last season, Inter Milan posted financial losses of £220m (€245m), the highest ever recorded by a Serie A side (until Juve broke it this season, having just announced losses of a staggering £228m). A year later, Inter’s losses aren’t quite as steep, but they still came in to the tune of approximately £125m (€140m).

This means that, unquestionably, a player or two will have to be sold next summer. And one of them could be midfield dynamo Nicolò Barella.

Cristiano Ronaldo's disasterclass against Spain shown in highlights reel

Before kick off there were calls for Cristiano Ronaldo to be dropped by Portugal, and his performance against Spain won't have done his defence to stay in the team any good.

This could quite easily be described as the worst period in Ronaldo's career, as far as form on the pitch is concerned, as the five time Ballon d'Or winner approaches his 38th birthday.

He has been dropped by new Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, only starting three games this season, with only one of those being a win.

It looks unlikely that he will force his way back into the starting line up of a team who look better without him right now, especially after a summer where he wanted out of Old Trafford.

However, now his place in the Portugal team for the World Cup is coming into question, even though he's recently said he also wants to play at Euro 2024, with Portuguese outlet A Bola using the headline 'Less Ronaldo, More Portugal,' ahead of the Nations League group decider against Spain.

A Bola's headline called for 'less Ronaldo.'

They argued that his lack of game time and goals meant he should have been benched, with the former Real Madrid star failing to score and giving away a penalty in the previous game against Czech Republic.

Despite the headline, Fernando Santos decided to start the superstar forward against their neighbours on Tuesday night, with fans remembering his hat-trick against the same opponents at the 2018 World Cup.

But the match and performance were far from a throwback to Russia, and compilations of his highlights show he was far from his best.

Shots were missed, passes went askew and he was generally left looking pretty frustrating. One fan even sarcastically, or at least you have to hope it was, put the goat emoji alongside the video.

We have to accept he's not the same guy anymore."

A United page added, "Cristiano Ronaldo still has the mentality, but his abilities are fading, and it's normal with age. No matter how much you love him, have to admit it's time to gradually step aside.

"I'm not criticising him. Just a reminder that every good thing MUST come to an end."

Portuguese football journalist Zach Lowry added, "There is absolutely zero explanation for Cristiano Ronaldo to still be a starter for Portugal in 2022. Not when there's Rafael Leao, Pedro Neto, Joao Felix and so many other talented players waiting in the wings.

"Another anonymous performance from him today."

And it wasn't just his performance being criticised, with the Portugal captain spotted throwing away the armband after the match was over.

Cristiano

Bukayo Saka told to complete Arsenal transfer exit and team he should join amid contract talks

Arsenal transfer news: Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has continued to shine for both club and country, but now there's a dilemma surrounding his future amid contract negotiations

The future of Arsenal superstar Bukayo Saka is one that will be discussed for some time. Or at least until he decides to pen a new deal at the Emirates Stadium.

Saka's current contract ends in less than two years' time and Arsenal are keen to tie him down to a longer deal. However, all the while he does not sign a new deal, other clubs will start sniffing around, with Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp a keen admirer, amongst many others.

Former England goalkeeper David James has claimed that Saka should leave Arsenal to join Manchester City in the future. It comes amid links between the 21-year-old and a potential move to join Pep Guardiola's side, who have seen a huge squad turnover during the summer.

It saw them lose the likes of Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus, who have been influential players in the attack over the years. With Saka continuing to impress for both club and country, it comes as little surprise that there would be interest in a player with plenty more to come.

The winger added yet another accolade to his collection in the past week, being voted the 2021/22 England men's player of the year. "This is such a special honour for me and I’m very grateful to everyone who voted," He said on social media shortly after receiving the award.

Former England shot-stopper James has told GGRecon that the Arsenal academy graduate should join Manchester City rather than signing a new deal. He said: "I do like what Mikel Arteta is doing at Arsenal and Bukayo Saka is a big part of that, I can, however, understand why players want to move. Sometimes you find yourself in a situation where you’ve been at a club for a while, and even when things change, you still feel that you need a change yourself.

"If there’s a chance of Saka moving to Manchester City, then he’d be joining the best team in England over recent years. Arsenal are currently the best team in England as we speak, purely from their league position, but more than likely Manchester City are going to challenge them for that position.

"The question is, would Saka be given enough game time at Manchester City? It’s almost guaranteed rotation when you’re fit because that’s what Pep Guardiola does. Anyone who goes to Manchester City knows they’re not going there to play every game..."

"I believe he’d be a wonderful addition for Manchester City. I’ve got a lot of Arsenal friends, so I believe he should move to Manchester City."

Just Arsenal NewsReport – Arsenal loanee could change clubs in January

Marcelo Flores

Arsenal allowed Marcelo Flores to leave on loan at the start of this campaign because they wanted him to gain more experience.

Although he hasn’t broken into the Gunners first team yet, Mexico has capped him, and that shows he is a tremendous talent.

The attacker could have joined several clubs temporarily in the last transfer window, but the proposal of Real Oviedo convinced him and he enlisted with them.

The La Liga2 side was hoping he would help them gain promotion to the Spanish top flight this term.

However, he has played less than 50 minutes of league football this season.

This could change everything, and he is getting frustrated at the lack of playing time being afforded to him.

El Desmarque reports the youngster wants to play more, and he understands he needs patience.

However, if things don’t change, he could ask to leave them in January to find another temporary home.

Just Arsenal Opinion

Flores is at an age that he needs to play regularly, and it makes little sense that it has not happened for him so far.

We have high hopes for him, and the only way he can develop himself is to start playing more often than he is doing now.

How Arsenal could line up for North London derby amid seven-man injury crisis

Arsenal are set to host the first fixture after the September international break with a crunch tie against Tottenham in the North London Derby. The Gunners, however, have had disrupted preparation for the match due to continuous injury concerns.

Thomas Partey and Martin Odegaard have been suffering from injuries in recent weeks, which forced both players to miss games for Arsenal leading up to the international break. Despite this, they were still called up to play for their nations over the past two weeks.

This all but confirmed Odegaard’s return to full fitness as he played in both of Norway’s fixtures. The same cannot be said for Partey, however, meaning Arteta will have a tough selection choice ahead of the match against Spurs on Saturday.

READ MORE: Mikel Arteta's new Gabriel Jesus Arsenal plan at risk amid shock Liverpool swap deal offer

 captain Odegaard is expected to be fully fit for the clash with Tottenham at the weekend. The Norway international had picked up a knock in training, missing the victory over Brentford just before the break for international duty.

Fabio Vieira marked his full Arsenal debut In the Premier League with a stunning strike against Brentford, which put his side 3-0 up in the second half of the match at the G-Tech Community Stadium. The midfielder had a disrupted start to life in North London following a knock suffered on Portugal duty at the start of the summer, but announced his presence in resounding fashion in West London. His place in the starting lineup came as a result of an injury to Odegaard and the 22-year-old took his chance in convincing fashion.

However, Odegaard’s return from injury would likely see Vieira go back to the substitutes' bench, due to the fact that the Norwegian has been one of Arteta’s most important players in the past year, and having the club captain on the pitch for arguably the biggest derby of the season seems a more likely option.

With Vieira still adapting to English football, Odegaard is certainly further ahead in his development. And with the club captain fit for the crucial match against Tottenham, it would seem likely that Odegaard comes back into the starting line-up at the expense of Vieira.

Midfielder Partey picked up a thigh injury earlier this season, missing a number of games, but made his return to the first team in the 3-0 win against Brentford just before the international break. The Ghana international was due to start in his nation's friendly with Brazil, but had to pull out of the line-up.

Partey has had to return to the club early from the international break due to a knee problem. "We didn’t want to take that risk in a friendly game to play him against Brazil," Ghana boss Otto Addo said. "But surely playing a player like him against a squad like Brazil would have been helpful."

With his injury being described as a precaution by the Ghanaian manager, it is likely that Partey will be ready to play against Tottenham on Saturday. The 29-year-old would presumably start alongside Granit Xhaka, and Odegaard in Arteta’s trusted midfield three.

Takehiro Tomiyasu was Arsenal's only defensive injury concern as he was sent back home by Japan, but Ben White has currently been starting ahead of him at right-back, and the Englishman should be fit seeing as though he was not called up to international duty. Meanwhile, Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba finished the international break without an injury, meaning the three players' spots in defence are likely to stay the same.

Mikel Arteta’s left-back decision is still up in the air as football.london understands that Oleksandr Zinchenko is set to return for the North London Derby at the weekend. The Ukraine international was another doubt, having not been called up for his nation due to a calf issue in an official statement, but he appears to have shaken off any concerns to be available for the game.

Other than Bukayo Saka, Arsenal’s forward line were not called up for international duty, meaning Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus should be fit to play in the derby, alongside Saka who did not pick up an injury while away with England.

Liverpool news and transfers LIVE - Jude Bellingham rival, Joao Gomes claim, Naby Keita future

 Liverpool transfer news, rumours, gossip and speculation including updates on Moises Caicedo, Sadio Mane, Trent Alexander-Arnold and more

Liverpool are said to be prepared to pay the required £53.4 million to Flamengo for midfielder Joao Gomes with the likes of Real Madrid sniffing around. Borussia Dortmund are said to be linked with a move for Naby Keita as the Reds target Jude Bellingham.

And don't forget to subscribe to our FREE Liverpool FC newsletter, our YouTube channel and listen to our Blood Red Podcast, with all your favourite ECHO regulars including Paul Gorst, Ian Doyle, Joe Rimmer, Sean Bradbury, Theo Squires, Mark Wakefield, Charlotte Coates, Keifer MacDonald, Richard Garnett, Tom Cavilla and regular host Matt Addison.

Declan Rice makes Jude Bellingham 'future' claim

England midfielder Declan Rice believes Jude Bellingham is ‘the future of English football’ amid speculation over a move to Liverpool.

The midfield pair started in both of England’s Nations League games this week in the clearest sign yet that Southgate has made his decision in that area. Bellingham led the comeback from 2-0 down against Germany on Monday night with a mature and commanding performance.

The 19-year-old has been the subject of plenty of praise over the last week, with the Three Lions manager citing a ‘top-level mentality’ as the Borussia Dortmund star’s biggest quality - and now midfield partner Rice has hailed the promising midfielder as ‘the future of English football’.

Chelsea join Bellingham race

Chelsea are trying to play catchup in the race for Jude Bellingham, according tothe Telegraph.

The London club - recently acquired by Todd Boehly - have attempted to make contact with the 19-year-old's camp, despite being informed that both Liverpool and Real Madrid are at the forefront.

Boehly still believes he and his team have plenty of time to make a big play for the teenager, with Borussia Dortmund looking likely to sell their £130million-rated star at some point over the next 12 months.

The Reds have spent months forging relationships with both club and player, according to the report, but Boehly is thought to have shouldered the responsibility himself as he is without a sporting director.

Rice explains Bellingham interest as Chelsea plot transfer amid Liverpool race(Image: Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)

11:19KYLE NEWBOULD

Morning headlines

Here are your Liverpool FC morning headlines as Gareth Southgate sends another blow to Trent Alexander-Arnold's World Cup hopes while Declan Rice makes his Jude Bellingham 'future' prediction

Fabrizio Romano details Reds midfielder links

Fabrizio Romano has joked that Liverpool will be linked with '20-30 midfielders' over the coming months, with it being common knowledge that the Reds are actively hunting for midfield reinforcements.

Jurgen Klopp's side have been long-time admirers of Jude Bellingham, but face stiff competition from the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester City for the teenager. Meanwhile, recent reports have linked Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez with a move to Anfield after an impressive start to the season in Portugal and with Argentina.

But Romano, writing forCaughtOffside, has played down talk of Fernandez links, adding that there are likely to be many more links between now and January.

We’ve heard a lot about Jude Bellingham, and now Enzo Fernandez is making headlines! Honestly, I think Liverpool will be linked with 20-30 midfielders in the next months as it’s public knowledge that they’re looking for a top midfielder in 2023. As for Enzo Fernandez, he has just arrived at Benfica, he’s focused on Benfica and on the World Cup – no one close to him wants to speak about a potential

Mikel Arteta handed eight-man Arsenal injury crisis ahead of North London derby

 The Gunners already have two stars ruled out of Saturday’s visit of Tottenham, while three more have returned early from international duty with various injuries

Arsenal are sweating on the fitness of a number of players ahead of Saturday’s North London derby with Tottenham Hotspur following the latest round of international fixtures.

The Gunners take on Spurs in Saturday’s early kick-off, where a win would extend their lead at the top of the table to four points, but they could now be without up eight players for the contest in what has

become an injury crisis for Mikel Arteta

Mohamed Elneny and Emile Smith Rowe had already been ruled out of the fixture, but early returns from international duty for injury prone stars Thomas Partey, Kieran Tierney and Takerhiro Tomiyasu leaves Arsenal ’s squad stretched to its limits

 Partey, who withdrew from Ghana’s starting lineup just moments ahead of last week’s game against Brazil after reporting discomfort in his knee, is the biggest concern and has already missed four of Arsenal’s eight games this season due to a persistent thigh problem.

The midfielder’s latest injury has raised new doubts about his long-term availability and, while his latest setback is not thought to be serious, his past record means the club’s medical team will not be taking any chances and rushing him back into action.

Tierney has become second choice at left back this season following Oleksandr Zinchenko’s summer arrival but, despite performing admirably in Scotland’s 3-0 win over Ukraine last Wednesday, he has also returned to north London early due to concussion protocols.

Is Arsenal's lack of squad depth already coming back to haunt them? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

The Scotsman was withdrawn from Saturday’s 2-1 win against the Republic of Ireland following a clash of heads and was forced to withdraw from the squad as a result, which could provide Arteta with a left back selection dilemma on Saturday.

That’s because Zinchenko is already out with an injury of his own. The 25-year-old is struggling to recover from the calf strain which ruled him out of the recent 3-0 win at Brentford and is ruled out of Ukraine’s Nations League decider against Scotland tonight.

Another defender in Tomiyasu has also returned from international duty. The Japanese right back impressed in his side’s 2-0 victory over the United States on Friday, but flew back to London ahead of tonight’s clash with Ecuador due to club circumstances.

Ghana boss confirms imminent Thomas Partey return ahead of North London Derby Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey tipped for injury comeback ‘very, very soon’ as Tottenham derby looms

 Ghana head coach Otto Addo has provided a positive injury update on Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of Saturday's North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.

After missing three Premier League games with a thigh injury, Partey returned to the Gunners starting lineup for the 3-0 win at Brentford earlier this month.

The 29-year-old then linked up with the Ghanaian national team ahead of two friendly fixtures against Brazil and Nicaragua.

However, Partey appeared to suffer another injury setback as he was left out of their opening game against Brazil last Friday due to discomfort in his knee.

Addo has since confirmed that the 40-cap international will return to Arsenal to undergo tests on his knee, but he believes that the midfielder could make a swift recovery.

Ghana boss confirms imminent Thomas Partey return ahead of North London derby

Speaking to reporters ahead of Tuesday's clash with Nicaragua, Addo said: "Hopefully Thomas will be healthy very, very soon.

"We didn't want to take that risk in a friendly game to play him against Brazil, but surely playing a player like him against a squad like Brazil would have been helpful."

Partey is expected back in London this week ahead of undergoing a scan to determine the severity of his knee injury, and the Ghanaian medical team are confident that the midfielder will recover quickly.

A speedy recovery could therefore see Partey involved in Arsenal's Premier League showdown with North London rivals Spurs this weekend.

Ghana boss confirms imminent Thomas Partey return ahead of North London derby

Meanwhile, Arsenal trio Martin Odegaard, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Reiss Nelson could also be fit to feature in the North London derby.

Both Odegaard and Zinchenko have been suffering with minor calf injuries, with the latter missing Ukraine's final three UEFA Nations League fixtures this month, while Nelson has been sidelined since August with a thigh problem.

However, a recent report claims that all three players could be in a position to return to the matchday squad for the visit of Spurs at the Emirates Stadium.

Elsewhere on the injury front, Kieran Tierney is doubtful for Saturday's game after sustaining a head injury in Scotland's win over the Republic of Ireland, while Takehiro Tomiyasu was absent from Japan's friendly draw with Ecuador.

Mohamed Elneny remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, while Emile Smith Rowe (groin) and Cedric Soares (knock) are both doubtful and will be assessed ahead of kickoff this weekend.

Thomas ParteyClick here fo

r more stories about Thomas Partey

Liverpool currently have eight first-team players sidelined through injury, with long-term absentee Ibrahima Konate among those expected back to earliest.

The Reds have found injuries a persistent issue throughout the campaign so far, which has undoubtedly contributed to their hit-and-miss form on the pitch.

A 2-1 win over Ajax last time out served as a boost to morale, however, and a 17-day gap in fixtures has allowed a number of players valuable time to rest and recover.

That includes those on the treatment table, of which there are eight.

Here is the latest on Liverpool’s injury situation, including expected return dates for the likes of Konate, Andy Robertson and Curtis Jones.

Caoimhin Kelleher

Injury: Groin

Out since: July 4

Expected return: Early October

The latest we have heard on Kelleher’s groin injury – detected on day one of pre-season and the subject of division between Jurgen Klopp and the Republic of Ireland setup – is that he is “back very soon.”

Kelleher missed the latest Ireland squad but has already been pictured heading out for sessions at the AXA Training Centre, so he can be considered available imminently.

Ibrahima Konate

Injury: Knee

Out since: July 31

Expected return: Back vs. Brighton

Absent since the final friendly of pre-season, Konate has undergone his rehabilitation both on Merseyside and in his native France, but he is now back in training.

The 23-year-old could even be part of the matchday squad for the visit of Brighton on October 1.

 

Andy Robertson

Injury: Knee

Out since: September 7

Expected return: Early October

One of Liverpool’s most-used players this season, Robertson picked up a knee issue in the 4-1 defeat to Napoli and was pictured in a brace soon after.

He was subsequently left out of the Scotland squad to play Ukraine and the Republic of Ireland, but Klopp expects him back “after the international break.”

The timeframe for Robertson’s recovery is still loose, though, with Kostas Tsimikas set to start against Brighton.

 

Calvin Ramsay

Injury: Back

Out since: July 4

Expected return: October

Ramsay has also been out since the start of pre-season with various issues, most notably his back, but Klopp explained last month that he is “closer and closer” to joining first-team training.

The Scottish right-back is already working outside, so involvement at some point in October can be expected.

 

Naby Keita

Injury: Thigh

Out since: August 21

Expected return: November

Nursing a thigh injury picked up in the final days of the transfer window – amid ongoing speculation over a move back to Germany – Keita has now missed over a month of action.

Called up by Guinea only to not join up with the squad, the midfielder is not likely to be back until November – which could well mean he is not back in action before the World Cup.

 

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Injury: Hamstring

Out since: July 15

Expected return: November

Oxlade-Chamberlain is in the same situation as Keita, with Klopp saying this month that the No. 15 could be involved “somewhere in October” at the earliest.

It would be no surprise if Oxlade-Chamberlain plays no football between now and the World Cup.

 

Curtis Jones

Injury: Calf

Out since: Early September

Expected return: Early October

Having yet to play for Liverpool since the Community Shield in July, Jones will be hoping to have turned the corner on his calf issues.

Out with a stress reaction, the 21-year-old

recently took to Instagram to reveal he is “back soon,” which could even see him rejoin the squad against Brighton.

Get the expert lowdown on Jones’ injury situation here

 

Kaide Gordon

Injury: Pelvis

Out since: February

Expected return: Unknown

The hope is that Gordon is nearing a return to light training, having missed much of the last seven months with various injuries, the latest being a pelvic problem.

Recently, LFCTV commentator Steve Hunter explained that the club were being “careful” with the fitness of their No. 49, though thev player himself will be eyeing a comeback before the League Cup clash with former club Derby.

Liverpool FC could look to complete a swap deal in January involving Naby Keita and Jude Bellingham according to BILDReports in Germany claim Borussia Dortmund would be happy to accept as they are targeting Keita on a free for next summer

Liverpool Jude Bellingham Transfer Problem

Liverpool have reportedly been told Borussia Dortmund would accept Naby Keita plus cash in exchange for Jude Bellingham. The Guinean previously enjoyed a successful stint in the German top flight with RB Leipzig but has been unable to replicate this form on Merseyside during his four-year stint at the club.

It is no secret that Jurgen Klopp would like to sign the promising young midfielder with the club facing an increasingly pressing need to improve his options in the centre of the park in the short and long term. However, the Reds will face stiff competition for his signature with the teenager attracting interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe including Real Madrid and Manchester United. 

There are also hurdles to overcome with his price tag. Dortmund are expected to want in excess of £100m for the prodigious talent. This will certainly prove to be too much for Liverpool this winter and as such the club have been forced to consider more creative solutions in their pursuit of the England international. 

They have an opportunity to strike a swap deal though, with German outlet SportBILD reporting that Dortmund would be willing to entertain an offer including Keita. The same report claims Dortmund are interested in Keita and would take him plus cash for Bellingham - and would even accept such a deal if it was proposed in January.

The Guinea captain’s contract expires next summer but Klopp is keen to extend his deal. Keita however has failed to settle in England, regularly spending more time on the sidelines than he does on the pitch, making 117 appearances and scoring 11 goals since arriving in 2017. His departure would likely be well received by the Anfield faithful should it coincide with Bellingham’s arrival. 

The former Birmingham City midfielder has received strong praise from former Liverpool goalkeeper David James who believes he is worth every penny of his asking price given his immense potential. 

Will Maguire be dropped by England after more mistakes? Southgate reacts to Germany disasterclass from Man Utd defender

 Harry Maguire made more high-profile mistakes during England’s 3-3 draw with Germany, but Gareth Southgate believes dropping him is “impossible

WHAT HAPPENED? The Manchester United defender, who has slipped out of favour and onto the bench at Old Trafford, conceded a penalty at Wembley on Monday night after giving the ball away on the edge of his own box to Bayern Munich youngster Jamal Musiala. He looked rusty throughout, as a lack of domestic game time catches up with him, but the 29-year-old can count on the full support of his international boss heading towards the 2022 World Cup finals in Qatar.

WHAT THEY SAID: Southgate told reporters when asked if Maguire’s form is a source of concern and could lead to him being replaced in the Three Lions’ favoured starting XI: “I know everyone will focus on Harry but there were some very important moments that Harry delivered during the two matches. Luke Shaw was another example of somebody [who delivered moments], he’s an outstanding footballer.

“So what do we do? Not pick Luke Shaw because he’s not playing enough football or do we pick a player who can do what we saw tonight? That’s always going to raise debate but I think in these moments we’ve got to back our best and our most experienced players unless we’re in a situation where it’s almost untenable and impossible to pick them.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE: England captain Harry Kane claimed afterwards that Maguire had picked up a “decent injury” late on against Germany which left him playing on “one leg”, while the man himself has posted a message on social media in which he sought to shrug off more costly errors. Maguire said: “Mistakes are part of the game, I apologise. Great fight back and spirit to get us back into the game by the lads. Take the positives and look forward to Qatar. The tough times will make us stronger.”

DID YOU KNOW? England are winless in their last six games in all competitions (D3 L3), their longest run since April-June 1993 (also six). It’s their longest ever winless run going into a major tournament

Man United alert as English striker wants Premier League return

 Manchester United interested as AS Roma star Tammy Abraham seeks Premier League return. 

Manchester United interested as AS Roma star Tammy Abraham seeks Premier League return

Manchester United target Tammy Abraham wants a move back to the Premier League from AS Roma

The 24-year-old signed for Jose Mourinho’s team in the summer of 2021 from Chelsea. Abraham has thrived in his time in Serie A. The centre-forward was previously satisfied staying in Italy. However, he has changed his mind and is looking to get back to English football.

The Red Devils are eyeing a move for Abraham. Graham Potter’s team are also in the race for their former star. And Arsenal have also been credited with an interest in the 24-year-old.

Manchester United target Tammy Abraham wants a move back to England from AS Roma. 

Abraham came up through the Chelsea ranks. After a few impressive seasons on loan in the Championship, the England international came back to the Stamford Bridge side.

In the 2019/20 campaign, Abraham had a breakout season with Chelsea. The 24-year-old played 47 times for the Blues in all competitions, scoring 18 goals and providing six assists.

However, with the dismissal of Frank Lampard, Abraham lost his place in the Chelsea starting lineup. The centre-forward then moved to Roma for the 2021/22 season. The 24-year-old featured in 53 games in all competitions for the Italians, scoring 27 goals as they won the inaugural UEFA Conference League.

Tammy Abraham is attracting interest because of his form with AS Roma. 

Considering Abraham’s form, many PL clubs are evidently looking to acquire his signature. United seemingly need to bolster their forward line in the upcoming transfer windows.

More Manchester United News

Manchester United opted against signing Villarreal centre-back Pau Torres as Erik ten Hag wanted Lisandro Martinez

Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham to snub Manchester United for Real Madrid

Michael Carrick ‘not surprised’ by the quality Christian Eriksen has brought to the Manchester United midfield

Erik ten Hag has a number of attacking options at his disposal. However, there is seemingly uncertainty around some of our star forwards.

Abraham was on the bench for Gareth Southgate’s team in the recent UEFA Nations League fixtures against Italy and Germany. The 24-year-old is evidently a backup to Harry Kane in the national setup. It will be interesting to see if the centre-forward finds a move back t

o England after the World Cup.

Liverpool are in the hunt for Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez to partiner Thiago Alcantara who has a £106.5m release clause in his contract.

 With Jurgen Klopp having to deal with an ageing, struggling midfield at the moment, a new midfielder could be a priority over the next two transfer windows.

Arthur Melo was brought in towards the end of the summer transfer window, but he doesn’t appear to be a long-term solution for Liverpool.

Enzo Fernández's great goal on his Champions League debut with Benfica

Now according to O Jogo (via the Liverpool Echo), Liverpool are still interested in Benfica midfielder Fernandez. The report claims that the midfielder has a £106.5m release clause in his contract and Liverpool don’t rule out signing him in the short or long-term.

Liverpool recently dealt with Benfica for the transfer of Darwin Nunez, so the relationship between the two clubs should be good.

At just 21 years old, Fernandez could solve Liverpool’s midfield issues for many years. The likes of Fabio Carvalho and Harvey Elliot have been playing in the midfield three for Klopp this season, but Fernandez will offer Liverpool more defensive stability, having played in a more deeper role during the early stages of his career.

“Get back to Kirkby!” – Liverpool fans react to Alexander-Arnold’s England omission

 Liverpool fans have had plenty to say after Trent Alexander-Arnold was left out of England’s squad to face Germany on Monday.

The Reds right-back was one of five players to be omitted from Gareth Southgate’s final matchday squad before the World Cup begins in November.

The England boss has consistently overlooked Alexander-Arnold, with the likes of Kyle Walker, Reece James and Kieran Trippier ahead of him in the pecking order.

If Alexander-Arnold, a player who has registered 66 assists in his six years as a Liverpool player, can’t make the squad at a time when England haven’t scored in any of their last three games, then the writing appears to be on the wall.

Jurgen Klopp, however, certainly won’t be complaining about the fact his most creative player hasn’t played a single minute over the course of the international break.

Here’s how Liverpool fans have reacted to Alexander-Arnold’s England snub:

As good as it is for Liverpool that Trent isn't playing pointless international games, you've got to wonder how Southgate looks at a talent like him and willingly leaves him out. He's only featured in 5 of England's last 31 games which is just absurd considering his quality.

From a selfish point of view, it's great that Trent is coming back early, but from his point of view, he'll be gutted. I hope he goes to the World Cup. It's what players dream of.

One of the many reasons I admire Trent Alexander-Arnold as a professional and a person is that he keeps reporting for England duty even though he knows that the manager, Gareth Southgate, does not really believe in him. It's sad, it's a waste, and it's England's loss. #ENG #LFC 

Trent Alexander-Arnold and Fikayo Tomori left of of England’s squad against Germany tonight by Gareth Southgate. Harry Maguire, Eric Dier, Conor Coady and Luke Shaw still in the squad.

The favoritism

Gareth Southgate left Jordan Henderson out of a recent England camp because he “didn’t need to know anymore about him”. Southgate leaves Trent Alexander-Arnold out of his England squad having played 5 of 31 matches in the World Cup lead up.

How can Southgate really afford to overlook a player of Alexander-Arnold’s creative threat, at a time when his side are without a win in five games and without a goal in three?

Alexander-Arnold will be disappointed, and will be even more so if he is not included in England’s World Cup squad.

From a Liverpool perspective, though, England’s loss can only be our gain

Arsenal news: Edu set for £40m transfer battle as target makes major Cristiano Ronaldo admired by Arsenal transfer target The latest Arsenal news with updates on Pau Torres, Mykhaylo Mudryk and Eric Cantona's criticism of Stan Kroenke

 Speaking to The Athletic, Eric Cantona blasted Stan Kroenke's decision to move Arsenal away from Highbury to the Emirates Stadium back in 2006. The ex-Manchester United star said: “The trips are about going inside the passion of football, understanding the story of a club, how football is used, then how you live your life.

"We were speaking about my favourite football stadiums earlier but now all the stadiums are called Emirates or Allianz. These stadiums lost the soul and history of the club, like Arsenal and West Ham.

"I played at those old stadiums, like Highbury and Upton Park. I spoke with some Arsenal fans and they hate these (new) stadiums.

"These fans lost the soul of their clubs. Fortunately, Old Trafford is still Old Trafford. Anfield is still Anfield.”

Edu set for Chelsea and Tottenham transfer battle

All three London clubs explored the possibility of bringing in Villarreal star Pau Torres in the summer but were put off by his £40million valuation, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

In his CaughtOffside column, Romano wrote: “Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham also explored this possibility but didn’t want to spend €40-45m. I think it’s a very good opportunity on the market; he has experience, quality, left footed. A very good CB.”

Torres will have just a year remaining on his current deal with the La Liga outfit next summer which could spark a bidding war between the Gunners, Blues and Lilywhites.

Mykhaylo Mudryk makes Cristiano Ronaldo admission

Mikel Arteta could look to bring in his very own 'Cristiano Ronaldo' after transfer target Mykhaylo Mudryk revealed in an interview with The Times that he mirrors his game on the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.

Mudryk said: “It’s more comfortable for me when I play on the line where I can show all my potential one against one. I have more space to move to the front and I can create a lot more chances when I play on the line.

"There are more people in the middle. But, you know, the middle is also OK for me. My inspiration is Cristiano Ronaldo because of what you can do if you work hard and believe in yourself.

"I like the way Cristiano plays. I see myself like that - a winger. But I need more time to change my position from 11 or 7 to 9. With time it is possible.”