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Aston Villa were subject to their fourth consecutive Premier League defeat on Saturday evening as Tottenham beat the Villans 4-0 at Villa Park as a hat-trick from Heung-Min Son as well as a Dejan Kulusevski strike saw the Lilywhites cruise to victory.

In fairness to Steven Gerrard’s side, the scoreline isn’t a fair reflection of the game with the West Midlands outfit having 19 shots, eight of which were on target. However, it’s another poor result for the 41-year-old’s side.

Moreover, it was another tricky outing for striker Danny Ings who was gifted a start, an opportunity that wasn’t taken.

As a striker, the Englishman will be judged based on his goals tally which right now stands at just five.

Having swapped the south coast for the Midlands last summer when joining Aston Villa from Southampton for £25m, the 29-year-old has struggled to find the back of the net on a consistent basis in claret and blue.

For the Saints, Ings scored an impressive 46 goals in 100 matches at a tally of a goal every 2.17 games. At Villa, the forward’s tally stands at one every five matches.

Against Tottenham, the Englishman was lively in the area, but it was clinical edge that he was lacking, seeing three shots blocked, two go off target and one saved.

However, throughout his 70-minute spell, the striker was limited to just 29 touches, according to SofaScore, losing possession on eight occasions, an average of every 3.6 touches.

The 29-year-old also recorded a disappointing 69% passing accuracy and failed to make a block or interception.

It’s still a puzzle that Gerrard is trying to solve with Ollie Watkins also enduring a quiet campaign for his standards this term.

The 26-year-old has netted eight goals this season having scored 16 in his first campaign as a Villa player.

Finding a system that incorporates both players and allows them to fulfil their maximum ability has been a struggle all season for both Gerrard and his predecessor Dean Smith and will certainly be a priority for the Villa boss over the summer.

If not, it may mean that after just one year at Villa Park Ings’ tenure in claret and blue could come to a conclusion. Saturday was certainly a test for the Englishman to see if he could enjoy a change in fortunes, one that he ultimately failed.

In other news: Aston Villa’s “crazy” £22.5m-rated talent could now leave, fans will surely be fuming

According to reports out of Spain, West Ham United and by extension manager David Moyes have set their sights on Real Madrid striker Luka Jovic as the Galacticos reportedly make a decision on the player’s future.

The Lowdown: West Ham set for interesting summer?

As the Hammers now become outside contenders for a top four place, with London rivals Tottenham and Arsenal seemingly in better positions, their pull in the next transfer window could hinge on whether they qualify for the Europa League or if they even go on to win the competition this season.

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Moyes has reportedly earmarked the signings of a centre-half and striker as major priorities for the club, with moves attempted in the winter, including for the likes of Darwin Nunez (Benfica) and Duvan Zapata (Atalanta).

As those transfers failed to come to fruition, West Ham must now look to the summer in an effort to boost Moyes’ options for 2022/23, with news now surfacing on a brand-new striker target in Galacticos forward Jovic.

The Latest: West Ham ‘fight’ for Jovic…

As per Spanish sources, West Ham and Moyes are eyeing a move for the Serbia international, who is allegedly ‘fed up’ with life at the Bernabeu.

Real Madrid, who are also eager to see him leave the capital, are ‘looking for the Balkan striker’s exit’ as the Irons ‘fight’ for his signature alongside their Premier League top-four competitors Spurs and Arsenal.

In addition, with both player and club eager to see Jovic depart, this report claimed that ‘all roads reach an imminent agreement’ with any interested club willing to negotiate.

Indeed, it seems that if West Ham take their interest further, a quick-fire summer deal could be on the cards.

The Verdict: Make a move?

Jovic’s return for Eintracht Frankfurt points towards a striker with much ability when at the very peak of his powers. The 24-year-old notched a brilliant 17 goals and five assists over 25 Bundesliga starts in the 2018/19 season, perhaps illustrating why West Ham and Moyes have set their sights on him.

In more recent times, during Jovic’s brief return to Frankfurt on loan last year, their ex-manager Adi Hutter lavished the forward with praise, branding him a ‘world-class’ player after a brace against Schalke 04.

Still fairly young, and reportedly on the market for around €30m (£25m), West Ham could give Jovic a new lease of life in the English top flight and take advantage of Real Madrid’s willingness to strike a quick agreement.

In other news: Blow for Moyes as journalist says ‘underrated’ West Ham ace is now ‘ready to leave’, find out more here.

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Manchester United and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer continued the extraordinary turnaround of their season – save for the loss to PSG last week – with a 2-0 victory over top-four rivals Chelsea in the FA Cup 5th round, meaning that they progress to a quarter final clash with Wolves.

The win also meant that Solskjaer’s record at the Old Trafford helm extended to 11 victories in 13 games since taking over from Jose Mourinho in December and so the Norwegian’s case for remaining in the role beyond the end of the season grows, while the pressure mounted on his Chelsea counterpart, Maurizio Sarri.

On paper, the Blues have one of the strongest midfield’s in the league – few boast a World Cup winner or a Ballon d’Or nominee and Chelsea have both in N’Golo Kante, but the Frenchman was uncharacteristically dominated in the middle of the park as his side were knocked out of the FA Cup on Monday night.

A huge part of United’s 2019 success has been the incredible form of Paul Pogba, who, against Chelsea, scored and assisted for the ninth and sixth times, respectively, since the ‘Baby-Faced Assassin’ took the wheel.

It has long been clear that relieving the former Juventus man of his defensive duties would help him to become the free-roaming, game-controlling, all-conquering midfielder that United thought they were getting when they splashed a then-world-record £89m to bring the number 6 back to Old Trafford in 2016.

However, even with the likes of Nemanja Matic and Fred in the side – both were intended to give Pogba as much attacking freedom as possible – it still didn’t click with Mourinho in charge. Now, though, the whole camp seems a lot more comfortable with what is being asked of them and the 2018 World Cup winner’s teammates seem far more willing to work hard for him, as well as for Solskjaer.

The former striker has done in a matter of weeks what Mourinho failed to do in over two years and that is to get the best out of Pogba, but a huge part of the 25-year-old’s new-found ‘freedom’ can be attributed to the performances of those around him, a transformed Marcus Rashford included.

Rashford’s runs in behind have meant easy assists for Pogba, but the numbers put in by a different player show exactly why the midfielder was allowed to completely boss the Blues on Monday.

Ander Herrera put in an enormous shift alongside the giant Frenchman and his tireless defensive work meant Pogba could get up the field and into dangerous areas to, first, assist, then score.

The former Athletic Bilbao man completed an impressive 6 tackles and 5 interceptions as he made Kante look like Kevin McDonald and, while Pogba stole the headlines, Herrera took as many touches (58) and also got on the end of the number 6’s inch-perfect cross to nod the visitors ahead on the half-hour mark.

Often known for their eye for a pass, Spanish midfielders are rarely recognised for their physical presence but Herrera won the most aerial duels (2) in the United ranks and was only bested by compatriot Marcos Alonso (3) on the pitch.

If the 29-year-old can continue putting in performances like this, Pogba will rule the midfield for years to come.

How much money could you make busking for a week as a freestyle footballer? Find out in the video below…

West Ham manager David Moyes has admitted there is still uncertainty regarding the fitness of forward Jarrod Bowen ahead of the clash with Everton. 

The lowdown: Ongoing complications

The 25-year-old was forced off with an ankle injury as the Hammers succumbed to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Liverpool at the beginning of March and hasn’t been seen since.

That’s despite an initial prognosis suggesting that the issue wasn’t serious, with hope the in-form attacker would make a prompt return to action after the club themselves announced he had sustained ‘no significant damage’.

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Now as a crunch clash at both ends of the table with Everton looms, Bowen’s participation remains in question.

The latest: Cause for ‘concern’

Giving a fresh update to the media ahead of the clash at the London Stadium, Moyes confirmed that the right-winger remains doubtful despite his return to training at Rush Green.

As quoted by journalist Jack Rosser on Twitter, Moyes was coy on the likelihood of Vladimir Coufal and Bowen featuring: “A chance that both of them could make it. I’m not sure if they’re ready and match fit, that would be a concern.”

This follows a report from Rosser for the Evening Standard stating that Bowen has an ongoing ankle issue and is in need of injections in order to strengthen the area prior to matches.

The verdict: A huge miss

Whilst Moyes and the supporting staff will be cautious of rushing the Englishman back, there can be no quantifying the impact Bowen’s absence has had on the Irons’ top-four hopes.

Despite maintaining a slim chance of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League spot via the Premier League final standings, winning the Europa League would now appear to present the most viable option for a place amongst Europe’s elite next season.

With 12 goals and 11 assists in 32 appearances across all competitions this term (Transfermarkt), getting the man hailed as ‘amazing’ by Kevin Phillips back to full fitness for the challenges ahead will be crucial to West Ham’s chances, even if it means leaving him out against the Toffees today.

In other news, West Ham halt contract talks with key player. Find out who it is here.

Manchester United have reportedly contacted Robert Lewandowski’s representatives ahead of a possible summer swoop.

The Lowdown: Ten Hag incoming…

The Red Devils look set to bring Ajax boss Erik ten Hag to Old Trafford ahead of the 2022/23 campaign to take over from Ralf Rangnick.

Fabrizio Romano revealed on Monday that United are set to complete a contract agreement with Ten Hag and that contact has been made with Ajax over a €2m clause.

Ten Hag previously demanded to be 100% involved when it comes to signings, departures and new contracts, and it looks as if Lewandowski is a potential target.

The Latest: Lewandowski contact

Sports Witness relayed an update from Sport regarding the Bayern Munich striker on Monday. They claimed that United are on the search for a star striker this summer and have contacted Lewandowski’s camp to make their interest known.

The 33-year-old, valued at around ‘€140-150m’ (£117m-£125m) last year according to Di Marzio, will be entering the final 12 months of his Bayern deal in the summer, with Barcelona also name-checked in the latest report.

The Verdict: Ronaldo replacement?

Edinson Cavani is set to leave United over the coming months, which will leave Ten Hag with just Cristiano Ronaldo as the only recognised senior striker on the books.

Ronaldo’s future is also thought to be in doubt, so should he depart, then Lewandowski, described as ‘unplayable’ by Sky Sports analyst Statman Dave, could be a perfect replacement.

However, if Ronaldo remains at Old Trafford, then pursuing a younger forward could be a wiser move, with Benfica’s Darwin Nunez on their radar after a stellar 2021/22 campaign.

In other news: ‘Problems…’ – Fabrizio Romano now shares fresh blow for Man Utd and Erik ten Hag on Twitter. 

Flocking to Twitter, a number of West Ham fans have gone into meltdown following a deadline day update from Hammers insider ExWHUemployee.

The Athletic’s West Ham correspondent Roshane Thomas has reported that as it stands, the Hammers are not expecting to sign a player this window.

This comes following numerous transfer links, many of which have come in the past week, with a number of deals seemingly close to being agreed.

Marseille defender Duje Caleta-Car was one deal fans expected to go through following multiple discussions between the two clubs. However, the negotiations came to a halt as an agreement could not be made regarding the structure of the deal. West Ham were looking for a loan deal with an option to buy, whereas Marseille were demanding a permanent sale.

Just today West Ham had a bid rejected for Benfica star Darwin Nunez, as the club looked to bolster their attacking options with a new striker. It was thought that the club were considering an improved offer, but it appears unlikely that this eventuality materialises.

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West Ham fans fume at Ex’s post

A Hammers fan shared The Athletic’s report on Twitter, asking popular insider ExWHUemployee for confirmation of the news.

Ex confirmed the news, saying: “That’s my feeling at this point yes. Unless something dramatic changes.”

Fans flooded the comments with hysteria, with many entering into meltdown following the club’s lack of transfer activity. Here’s what some of them had to say…

“I think this will be the final year of my season ticket until they are gone, if we don’t sign anyone”

Credit: @Jimlad66

“Never even come close to having a bid/offer accepted all month. Something seriously wrong with how we handle our business.”

Credit: @WestHamXtra

“Pathetic, oh well Declan knows the ambition now”

Credit: @tayloriw

“Thats Rice and Bowen leaving in the summer and us back to relegation battles”

Credit: @lynnfan99

“Only 6:20 but can we go to bed Ex?”

Credit: @Perkins_SZN

“We’re a joke.”

Credit: @HammerForLife

“It’s embarrassing now”

Credit: @andrewgreen1970

In other news: West Ham United: Fans fume at disappointing Caleta-Car news

Manchester United have been boosted in their efforts to sign Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong this summer following a fresh transfer update.

The Lowdown: United linked with De Jong move

Erik ten Hag has been confirmed as the Red Devils’ new manager ahead of next season, with the Dutchman hopefully making numerous good signings in the summer as they look to improve drastically in the Premier League.

One player with whom United have been linked is De Jong, with the 24-year-old impressing for Barcelona this season, chipping in with three goals and three assists in La Liga.

A fresh update further suggests that Ten Hag could get his man, with the pair having worked together during a successful spell at Ajax.

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The Latest: Journalist provides De Jong update

Speaking on El Chiringuito [via Barca Universal],  journalist Jose Alvarez claimed that Barca would be happy to let De Jong leave if a €70m (£58.9m) offer were to arrive on their desk.

The Dutchman’s current deal at Camp Nou expires in the summer of 2026.

The Verdict: Sign him up, Erik

De Jong could be a perfect summer signing for United, with midfield an area which has often come in for criticism at Old Trafford.

The Netherlands international would bring poise and control in the middle of the park, enjoying a 91.4% pass completion rate in La Liga this season, along with being hailed as ‘extraordinary’ by his manager Xavi.

De Jong joining United would feel like a statement signing, and the fact that he and Ten Hag know each other so well would further suggest that it would be a match made in heaven.

In other news, Erik ten Hag is reportedly keen on bringing a Premier League player to United. Read more here.

Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou has revealed that right-back Josip Juranovic missed the win over Aberdeen in the week with an illness, The Scottish Sun report.

The Lowdown: Nervy win

The Hoops continued their winning run following the international break with a 3-2 win at Pittodrie on Wednesday.

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Jota and Matt O’Riley seemingly put Celtic on the way to another straightforward win, however, the hosts were level after scoring twice in five minutes in the second half.

Celtic netted a winner through Jota shortly after conceding a second, which keeps them top of the Scottish Premiership by one point ahead of rivals Rangers.

The Latest: Postecoglou’s comments

The Scottish Sun’s Ryan Rowe shared comments from Postecoglou on Thursday afternoon (16:15). Postecoglou admitted that Juranovic has ‘an illness’ and was hopeful he would return on the weekend.

The Celtic boss couldn’t guarantee that, though, revealing he will be available against Bodo/Glimt next Thursday should he miss a second consecutive game.

“He’s got an illness.

“He’ll be back at the weekend, hopefully, and if not he will definitely be back for the midweek fixture next week.”

The Verdict: Best to leave him out?

Anthony Ralston has started the last two games at right-back ahead of Juranovic, who was labelled as ‘excellent’ by Alan Hutton for his display against Rangers.

It could be best for the summer signing to miss a third game against Raith Rovers on Sunday, with Ralston potentially keeping his place.

That would give Juranovic, who has been a regular this season, the best possible chance of making Celtic’s Europa Conference League first-leg clash with the Norwegian side.

You’d expect that the Hoops should be able to cope without Juranovic against the Championship side, with Postecoglou possibly ringing the changes once again.

In other news: ‘Hatate has…’ – Potentially worrying claim on Celtic star after Aberdeen. 

Celtic have been warned about a potential disaster in the summer with Cameron Carter-Vickers…

What’s the talk?

Journalist Pete O’Rourke has stated that the Hoops may be concerned about interest from south of the border in the central defender.

Leicester and Wolves have both been linked with a summer swoop for the Tottenham man, who is said to be valued at up to £10m.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “They will be worried because if it comes down to finances and money, Celtic aren’t able to compete with these Premier League clubs.”

Disaster

Ange Postecoglou must avoid a major disaster at the end of the season by ensuring that the club splashes the cash to sign him on a permanent basis as quickly as possible.

The Hoops have a headstart on their competitors because he is already in the building and they have a direct line of communication with Tottenham because of his loan. This means that Postecoglou can speak to Carter-Vickers, in person, and convince him to re-join the club in the summer instead of attempting to sign for a Premier League team.

Ex-Spurs man Jan Vertonghen dubbed him an “absolute beast” and his performances in the Premiership this season have lived up to that hype. He has averaged a phenomenal SofaScore rating of 7.35 across 26 appearances, with the Hoops keeping an impressive 14 clean sheets in that time.

The USA defender has shown that he can consistently deliver quality displays in the Scottish top-flight, winning 68% of his individual duels in the division. Carter-Vickers has made 2.1 tackles and interceptions and 4.2 clearances per game as he has helped the club to the top of the table as it stands.

Therefore, it would be a disaster to lose the centre-back as he has made himself a crucial member of the squad. Postecoglou will not want to go into next season without him, because of his displays, and must now make sure that the board spend the £10m required to sign him from Tottenham on a permanent basis and secure his future at Parkhead.

At the age of 24, he also has the potential to improve further and develop as a player. He has the room to grow and increase his value over time, which means that Celtic would be buying a player who makes their current team tick with his superb performances whilst also keeping him as an investment to potentially sell on in the future for a profit.

AND in other news, Celtic handed huge summer boost on “outstanding” £42k-p/w dynamo, Ange will be buzzing…

Aston Villa captain Tyrone Mings is ‘at risk’ of losing his place in the team, transfer insider Dean Jones has told GiveMeSport.

The lowdown

Mings, a Villa mainstay, has started 29 of their 31 Premier League matches so far this season, with only injury or suspension keeping him out of the line-up.

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Villa paid just over £20million to sign him from Bournemouth in the summer of 2019, and he signed a contract extension in September 2020. His £80,000-per-week deal runs until the end of the 2023/24 season.

Mings has faced criticism in recent times, with journalist Zach Lowy insisting in February that he was ‘far too error-prone to be a starter, let alone captain’ and urging Villa ‘to move on from him and upgrade with a new CB this summer’.

Steven Gerrard has said he will pick his ‘long-term’ skipper in the summer and admitted that he could recruit someone from elsewhere to don the armband.

The latest

Jones, speaking to GMS, says Gerrard will be considering Mings’ ‘position in the side’ in light of a succession of errors in recent seasons.

He explained:

“I think his position in the side has to be at risk at this stage,” he said. “He has also made quite a few errors over the past couple of years.”

The verdict

Since Villa were promoted to the Premier League, Mings has made five errors directly leading to an opposition shot and four leading to a goal and given away two penalty kicks (via SofaScore).

And those figures don’t account for more subjective errors.

It seems that Gerrard is determined to strengthen at the heart of his defence, with Football Insider claiming he plans to approach his old club Liverpool over a deal for Joe Gomez.

Gomez, valued at £19.8million by Transfermarkt, is described as his no. 1 target.

His public comments about the captaincy might have been a veiled challenge to Mings, who could be fighting for his spot in these final weeks of the campaign. If he can respond, then perhaps it will be enough to avoid the axe.

In other news, Villa could make this move after Sean Dyche’s sacking.