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Tottenham celebrated a huge victory midweek, beating Manchester City 2-1 in the Carabao Cup to secure a spot in the quarter-finals of the tournament. However, the win came with a significant setback, as defender Micky van de Ven was forced off the pitch just 14 minutes into the game due to a hamstring injury.
The Dutchman’s distress was visible as he left the pitch in tears, raising immediate fears about the extent of his injury.
Physio Scout, a trusted source on X for injury analysis and updates, has now provided an insight into van de Ven’s condition.
Expert analysis on Micky van de Ven’s injury
According to the expert, the injury likely stemmed from an intense sprint and deceleration, which could have worsened a pre-existing tightness in his hamstring.
Physio Scout suggests that this may not be as severe as initially feared. The recovery times vary significantly depending on the type and severity of a hamstring injury.
If it is merely a case of tightness, van de Ven could be back in action within a week. However, if scans reveal a Grade 1 strain, he might need two to four weeks of recovery, while a more serious Grade 2 strain could see him out for up to six weeks.
He shared the following update:
“…There is a possibility he did his hamstring on the sprint/deceleration phase too. Physio was seen performing hamstring tests on him.”
“Possible Recovery Times: If tightness: Less than a week. Grade 1: 2-4 weeks. Grade 2: 4-6 weeks…”
Micky van de Ven came off early with a hamstring injury in Spurs vs. Man City after a recovery challenge. He was seen in tears coming off.
Prior to the match, he was seen feeling his right hamstring a little, possibly indicating tightness that he played through.
In the… pic.twitter.com/mTBYKpUYO9
— Physio Scout | Football Injury Analysis (@physioscout) October 31, 2024
Though the scan results are still pending, the assessment hints at a minor issue, largely because the 23-year-old displayed pre-match signs of tightness.
Radu Dragusin’s time to step up
In van de Ven’s absence, Tottenham are set to lean on Radu Dragușin as a centre-back option. The Romanian defender has seen limited minutes this season, mostly due to the regular pairing of Cristian Romero and van de Ven.
Dragusin has been linked with a move away due to lack of playing, but he now has a valuable opportunity to step up and make an impact in Spurs’ defence, showcasing his abilities and potentially solidifying his spot under manager Ange Postecoglou.
As the Lilywhites face a busy fixture schedule in the coming weeks, van de Ven’s recovery will be closely monitored.
The post “There is a possibility” – Injury expert shares update on Micky van de Ven’s expected return appeared first on CaughtOffside.
https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/10/31/injury-expert-micky-van-de-ven-update/
Tottenham could be facing a challenging winter transfer window, with potential changes on the horizon in defence.
Although Spurs strengthened their squad over the summer and have high hopes for the arrival of promising South Korean talent Min-hyuk Yang in January, they may have to contend with outside interest in one of their defenders.
One key player under the spotlight is Radu Drăgușin. After joining from Genoa for €25 million earlier this year, Drăgușin arrived with high expectations and was seen as a solid addition to Tottenham’s defence.
However, he has found limited playing time so far, largely due to the consistent partnership of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven at centre-back.
This lack of regular minutes has sparked rumours of a potential exit, with Serie A leaders Napoli reportedly showing keen interest in the Romanian defender. These reports have been further fuelled by the player’s own agent who has constantly been speaking about his player’s future.
Tottenham could be dealt with double January blow
Adding complexity to the situation, reports from Rai Sport’s Paolo Paganini via CalcioNapoli24 indicate that the Italian club may not only pursue Dragușin but also look to bring in Lecce’s rising star Patrick Dorgu in a dual January move.
The transfer expert said:
“Be careful because Napoli is ready to make a double move in January. One is Dorgu from Lecce and the other is Dragusin from the Premier League.”
Dorgu, a left-back known for his speed and versatility, has been on Tottenham’s radar as they seek to add depth to their defence. Yet, Napoli’s reported interest in Dorgu could create obstacles for Spurs if they decide to move forward with an offer.
Chance for Dragusin to seize his opportunity following MVDV’s injury
While Dragusin’s appearances have been limited, he recently demonstrated his defensive quality during Tottenham’s 2-1 Carabao Cup win over Manchester City, where he played a key role after coming on from the bench.
With van de Ven now facing a possible spell on the sidelines following an injury sustained during the match, the Romanian defender could see increased playing time, giving him a chance to make a greater impact at Spurs during the upcoming busy fixture period.
The post Antonio Conte could deal Tottenham a double blow in January appeared first on CaughtOffside.
https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/10/31/tottenham-napoli-double-january-blow/
Ruben Amorim is set to replace Erik ten Hag as the manager of Man United over the coming weeks and the Portuguese coach is already making the same mistake as his predecessor at Old Trafford.
The Manchester club removed the Dutch coach from his role on Monday following the Red Devils’ 2-1 defeat to West Ham last weekend, which added to the underwhelming 2024/25 campaign being experienced by the Premier League giants.
The hierarchy at United moved fast to secure Ten Hag’s successor and got a deal wrapped up for Sporting CP’s highly-rated coach Ruben Amorim in days.
The Portuguese coach has already agreed to become the new manager of Man United and it will see the Red Devils part ways with €11m in order to lure him away from Lisbon as that is the release clause in the 39-year-old’s contract, reports Sky Sports.
Amorim will begin work at Old Trafford on November 11, reports Fabrizio Romano, and the Sporting coach may already be making a mistake that Ten Hag made regularly whilst the manager at Man United.
Will Ruben Amorim make the same mistake as Erik ten Hag at Man United?
Although Amorim has yet to officially be confirmed as the new Man United manager, it is being reported that the Sporting coach could be about to make the same error Ten Hag did at Old Trafford.
According to TEAMtalk, the Portuguese coach has asked United to reunite him with Sporting’s Goncalo Inacio, Marcus Edwards and Pedro Goncalves in 2025.
This would be a huge mistake on the 39-year-old’s part as Ten Hag regularly brought players he worked with in the Netherlands to Old Trafford and given the gap between the Premier League and Eredivisie, many of these players failed – Antony being the prime example.
History is likely to repeat itself if the Sporting coach goes down this path but given that Amorim has yet to step through the door at Old Trafford, it is hard to believe that the Portuguese coach is already making demands regarding future signings.
The post Ruben Amorim already making same worrying mistake as Ten Hag at Man United appeared first on CaughtOffside.
https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/10/31/ruben-amorim-erik-ten-hag-man-united/
Big Liverpool twist: Star player rejects several contract offers; European club now in advanced talk
Liverpool’s standout right-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold, has become the subject of intense transfer speculation.
According to the latest report from Spanish outlet Sport, the 26-year-old has already turned down multiple contract extension offers from the club.
This situation has raised concerns for Liverpool, as Alexander-Arnold’s unique playmaking abilities have been crucial to the team’s success and established him as one of the top right-backs in the world.
Currently, in the final year of his contract, the Reds have reportedly attempted to secure Alexander-Arnold’s future with a series of renewal proposals, yet the England international seems open to exploring opportunities beyond Anfield.
Real Madrid have emerged as a potential destination, especially after their primary right-back, Dani Carvajal, suffered an ACL injury ruling him out for the season.
With Los Blancos seeking a long-term solution for the right-back position, the possibility of pairing Trent with fellow England star Jude Bellingham could make a move particularly appealing for both the player and the club.
PSG in advanced talks with Trent Alexander-Arnold
The report adds that PSG have joined the race to sign him as they want to pair him and Hakimi together, with the Moroccan on the right-wing and Trent as right-back. In fact, the report claims that the club are in advanced talks to sign him.
It further adds that while Liverpool do not want to sell him, they could be forced to they fail to convince the player to sign a new deal with the club and if they receive a strong offer in January.
Interestingly, PSG’s Achraf Hakimi has recently been linked with a move to Anfield, with reports suggesting that the Reds have identified him as a replacement for their number 66.
Despite the ongoing saga, there remains a possibility that the player could end up staying at his boyhood club, as indicated by his recent comments.
Alexander-Arnold’s journey with the Merseyside club began at the age of six when he joined the academy in 2004. By 18, he was already making his mark on the senior team, helping Liverpool secure major titles, including the Champions League and Premier League.
With the January transfer window approaching, Liverpool must decide how best to address the situation: by securing Alexander-Arnold’s commitment or preparing for a future without one of their most influential homegrown talents.
The post Big Liverpool twist: Star player rejects several contract offers; European club now in advanced talks – report appeared first on CaughtOffside.
https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/10/31/trent-alexander-arnold-rejects-several-contract-offers/
Leeds United are reportedly focused on bringing Lewis O’Brien to Elland Road in the upcoming transfer window, according to TEAMtalk.
After the heartbreak of last season’s promotion play-off final loss to Southampton, Leeds are now building a squad designed to reclaim a spot in the Premier League.
Leeds United showing interest in Lewis O’Brien
Currently third in the Championship, Leeds have been hit by an injury crisis that’s left their midfield vulnerable, with key players Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev sidelined.
O’Brien’s combination of Championship experience and versatility makes him an ideal fit, potentially helping Leeds maintain momentum in their promotion campaign.
Renowned for his balanced play style, O’Brien brings a blend of defensive solidity and attacking prowess that could provide Leeds with much-needed dynamism.
He has impressed on his loan with MLS side LAFC, which is set to conclude in December, opening the door for Leeds to negotiate with Nottingham Forest. However, with Southampton, Sheffield United, and Stoke also expressing interest, competition for O’Brien’s signature is likely to be intense.
However, it has been noted that among the clubs linked with him, Leeds in particular are actively in hunt for a new midfielder. They were recently linked several players, hoping to sign them on a free transfer, including Cheikhou Kouyate.
There were also reports linking the club with a reunion with former midfielder Kalvin Phillips, before the Ipswich manager quickly shut those rumours down.
The steady rise of Lewis O’Brien
O’Brien’s career has been marked by steady progression and resilience. Starting at Huddersfield Town’s academy at age 11, he quickly distinguished himself, emerged as a key player and was later named Player of the Year for the 2019–20 season.
His performances earned him a move to Nottingham Forest in 2022. Although first-team opportunities were limited there, he continued to gain experience through subsequent loans to D.C. United in MLS, Middlesbrough, and most recently, LAFC, where he has logged 15 appearances, adding a goal and an assist. (Transfermarkt)
O’Brien’s contract with Forest is valid until 2026, though LAFC have an option to buy him upon the completion of his loan deal.
For Leeds, securing O’Brien could be instrumental in their push for promotion. Adding a midfielder of his quality and experience would strengthen their squad and provide the consistency needed to navigate the Championship schedule.
The post Leeds United eyeing versatile MLS star to bolster midfield for promotion push appeared first on CaughtOffside.
https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/10/31/leeds-united-target-lewis-obrien/
Tottenham legend Glenn Hoddle has admitted that he will never understand why the North London club sacked Jose Mourinho the week of the League Cup final in 2021 and believes it has shaped the future of Spurs.
Many were surprised when the former Chelsea boss took over Tottenham in 2019 but the idea behind the appointment was that the legendary coach would bring a long-awaited trophy to North London before his time was up.
Mourinho’s time with Spurs did not go to plan, however, the serial winner was on the verge of achieving his goal in 2021.
The 61-year-old brought Tottenham to the League Cup final in 2021 where they faced the tough task of trying to overcome Pep Guardiola’s Man City side.
Results in the build-up to Wembley were very underwhelming for Mourinho and Tottenham, but the logical thing would have been to decide on the Portuguese coach’s future after the cup final. However, Levy opted to sack the legendary football figure the week of the big game, leaving the inexperienced Ryan Mason to face Guardiola and Man City.
Levy’s plan backfired as Tottenham would lose the final 1-0 and it is a decision Spurs legend Glenn Hoddle doesn’t understand to this day.
Glenn Hoddle will never “understand” Jose Mourinho decision at Tottenham
Glenn Hoddle is this week’s special guest on Stick to Football, where the former Tottenham star discussed various moments in his life from Spurs to managing England.
While discussing the current state of Tottenham, the pundit admitted that he believes Daniel Levy made a massive mistake at Spurs in 2021 by sacking Mourinho before the League Cup final.
Hoddle was asked: “If they won something Glenn playing a brand of football that isn’t the Spurs way, should the modern fan be ok with that?
To which the 67-year-old responded: “They tried that with Conte. No, I think there is a massive mistake that Daniel Levy made. Jose got them to a cup final, it was a League Cup final, a stepping stone, but he sacked him on Monday, that doesn’t make sense to me and it never will.
“I don’t understand that at all. He brought him in to win a trophy and he has a good record against Pep and City as well.”
The former England coach went on to explain that if Tottenham won that cup, it could have led to more success down the line as it would have attracted more players to the North London outfit.
The post Tottenham legend admits he will never “understand” one major Daniel Levy decision appeared first on CaughtOffside.
https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/10/31/tottenham-glenn-hoddle-jose-mourinho/
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard is under mounting pressure in Saudi Arabia.
https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1970071/steven-gerrard-al-ettifaq-jordan-henderson
Leicester City have been praised for the astute signing of Jordan Ayew in the summer transfer window.
Manchester United under interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy thrashed Leicester City 5-2 in the League Cup last night, doing something Erik ten Hag had not managed to do in his final 6 months.
While the defeat was a significant one for the Foxes, there were a few positives for them to build on as they look forward to the season ahead.
In a match where United dominated early on, the Red Devils scored four goals in the first half. Although, Leicester managed to respond before the break, with Bilal El Khannouss and Conor Coady capitalising on defensive lapses from the hosts.
United ultimately regained control, and Fernandes sealed their victory with a fifth goal in the 2nd half.
Jordan Ayew’s impressive performance draws praise
Among the positives for Leicester was the performance of summer signing Jordan Ayew, who impressed football pundit Courtney Sweetman-Kirk.
Speaking on Sky Sports live broadcast, she commended Ayew as a “really clever signing” by manager Steve Cooper, praising his experience and work ethic.
While some may have initially questioned the move, Sweetman-Kirk noted that Ayew’s contributions on the field are becoming increasingly evident.
As quoted by Leicester City News, she remarked:
“I think Ayew has actually been a really clever signing for Leicester.”
“I think initially maybe a few raised eyebrows but you think about the experience he’s got in the Premier League. He’s already popped up with a few important goals. He works ever so hard for the team as well.”
Jordan Ayew makes impactful start at Leicester
Ayew, who joined Leicester on a two-year deal for £5 million with an additional £3 million in potential add-ons, has already demonstrated his impact with goals in both league and cup play.
He scored his debut goal for the club in an EFL Cup against Tranmere Rovers in a 4-0 win. Perhaps most significantly, Ayew scored a last-minute winner against Southampton in the league, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure.
With over 280 appearances in the Premier League and significant experience in Ligue 1, Ayew’s expertise offers Leicester much-needed stability and resilience as they navigate a challenging season, currently sitting 15th in the league standings.
His consistency and hard work align perfectly with Cooper’s vision of building a strong, reliable squad capable of handling Premier League demands.
Ayew’s contributions extend beyond scoring, as he brings a level of composure and leadership that Leicester needs to rise in the standings.
The post “Really clever signing” – Sky Sports pundit praises Leicester City for pulling off brilliant transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.
https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/10/31/steve-cooper-praised-jordan-ayew-signing/
Aston Villa have continued where they left off last season under Unai Emery but one star who hasn’t carried over his 2023/24 form is Leon Bailey.
The winger played a key role in helping the Birmingham club secure Champions League football for this season, producing 10 goals and nine assists for Villa in the Premier League.
Bailey’s overall total for the 2023/24 campaign saw him score 14 goals and assist a further 14 across 52 games, which highlights how important he was for Emery’s team.
The opening phase of the current season has not gone to plan for Bailey at Aston Villa and the 27-year-old has not been impressing his manager.
The Birmingham club were knocked out of the EFL Cup on Wednesday night by Crystal Palace and after the match, Emery commented on the Jamaican’s form.
“There’s still work to do with Leon Bailey to get to the same level as last year,” the Spanish coach said Emery via Jacob Tanswell.
“With Jaden, he needs minutes to get confident. McGinn and Maatsen played well. Kosta needs minutes to get experience. After my analysis, I am going to see how we can improve with them.”
What has happened to Leon Bailey at Aston Villa?
There could be many reasons behind Bailey’s lack of form, one being the injury he was carrying at the start of the season, however, it is something he will need to change if he is to stay a regular starter in Emery’s team.
The winger has been in and out of the Spaniard’s starting 11 as he has produced just three assists across 12 games this season.
The Jamaica international can be lethal on his day and Villa fans hope to see him return to his best soon as it will be a big help for their ambitions of staying in the Champions League next season and beyond.
The post Aston Villa star with 28 G/A last season is not impressing Unai Emery anymore appeared first on CaughtOffside.
https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/10/31/leon-bailey-unai-emery-aston-villa/
Liverpool could finally land long-term target in 2025 as European giants now willing to listen to of
Liverpool have been put on alert as Real Madrid are willing to listen to offers for Aurelien Tchouameni during next summer’s transfer window.
That is according to Relevo’s Jorge Picon, who reports that concerns have grown at the Bernabeu over Tchouameni’s performances this season and as a result, the La Liga champions are willing to listen to offers for the midfielder next summer.
The French international has been a key member of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad throughout the opening part of the 2024/25 campaign having started in all but one of Los Blancos‘ 11 La Liga matches, however, the 24-year-old has been below par along with several other stars in the Real Madrid team.
It has been a difficult start to the season for the La Liga champions and following their hammering at the hands of bitter rivals Barcelona last week, Ancelotti’s men currently trail the Catalan club by six points in the standings.
The Madrid-based club miss Toni Kroos in their midfield but this news seems like an overreaction to Tchouameni’s underwhelming showings of late but it could open an opportunity for Liverpool next summer.
Aurelien Tchouameni situation will have Liverpool on red alert
Liverpool have been long-term admirers of Tchouameni ever since the midfielder was at Monaco and made an attempt to sign the French international during the summer of 2022 before he opted to move to Real Madrid.
The Merseyside club are still in the market for a number six after failing to bring one to the club during the summer as a deal for Martin Zubimendi fell through.
This latest update on the future of Tchouameni could be great news for Liverpool as it might provide Arne Slot with a quality solution to the minor problem ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
The post Liverpool could finally land long-term target in 2025 as European giants now willing to listen to offers appeared first on CaughtOffside.
https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/10/31/liverpool-real-madrid-aurelien-tchouameni/
