It has been a slow day for Leeds United transfer news but Whites fans will be happy to hear that Barry Douglas looks set to stay at the club despite continued rumours of a transfer to Scottish Premiership champions Celtic.

According to Leeds Live, Douglas has stated that the alleged interest from Celtic has died down in recent weeks and that it was simply the media making something out of nothing.

The Daily Mail were one of the first sources to comment on the Leeds United player rumour, stating that the former Dundee United man had held talks with Hoops regarding a potential move to Celtic Park.

However, Douglas is regarded as one of the most important players for morale and fans will be hoping to see the 31-year-old take to the field on a regular basis this season. He certainly brings versatility to this Leeds squad.

Douglas made just 17 appearances for the club last season, with Marcelo Bielsa opting to go for three defenders more often than not. With a slight tweak to the formation, the left-back could feature prominently for the Whites in 2020/21.

Meanwhile, Sky Sports report that Celtic are interested in Paris Saint-Germain left back Mitchel Bakker – a move that would suggest the Hoops have moved on from Douglas.

With the transfer window open for another month, fans will be following the Leeds United transfer rumours religiously in a bid to track departures ahead of their return to the Premier League.

Douglas is capable of helping Leeds avoid relegation this season and Bielsa is likely to adapt his formation depending on the fixture. With that in mind, Douglas’ versatility could prove very important to Leeds in the coming months.

Wolves To Rival Leeds For Belgium Midfielder

Reports in Holland have claimed that Wolverhampton Wanderers and Leeds United are just two of the clubs interested in Belgian youngster Mike Tresor Ndayishimiye this summer.

Ndayishimiye joined Eredivisie outfit Willem II on a permanent deal in January following an impressive loan spell from NEC Nijmegen.

The Belgian youngster scored five goals and recorded three assists in just 20 league games last season, while also notching four goals and three assists in the KNVB Cup.

According to reports, Ndayishimiye has attracted attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, with the likes of Leeds, Wolves and Standard Liege showing interest in the midfielder.

However, a move to the Premier League is likely to be tempting for the player and, if given the choice, Elland Road may be his top destination. He looks well suited to Marcelo Bielsa’s attacking style of play.

Ndayishimiye came through the ranks at Anderlecht, one of Europe’s most prestigious youth teams, and reports state that Willem II may entertain offers of around £6.5 million.


*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*

September 6, 2020

By Alex McMahon

Alex McMahon Sport
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Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.

He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.

As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible. 
 

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According to the latest Leeds United transfer news columns, the Whites are favourites to sign Crysencio Summerville from Feyenoord this summer.

Reports in Holland suggest that Summerville favours a move to Elland Road over a number of interested parties, including Rangers and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Voetbal International have claimed that Leeds are the “main candidate” to sign the 19-year-old before the transfer window shuts in October.

Summerville is a talented prospect and Leeds could be getting an absolute bargain for an estimated £1.3 million. He lit up the Dutch Eredivisie last season whilst out on loan at ADO Den Haag.

We revealed earlier this month that Summerville wanted to stay at Feyenoord for years to come but that may change with a chance to play in the Premier League.

Leeds are one of the biggest clubs in England and the Whites are primed to enjoy a long and successful future in the top flight.

If you believe Leeds transfers rumours, Summerville could be a key figure at Elland Road in the not-so-distant future.

Martinez Move Not Off Just Yet

Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa is keeping a close eye on developments and rumours regarding Arsenal goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

The Whites could do with some help at the goalkeeper position and Martinez has hinted at a summer exit from the Emirates Stadium.

The Argentinian has stated that he doesn’t want to play second fiddle to Bernd Leno, having played a key role for the Gunners in their successful FA Cup campaign.

According to the Mail on Sunday, Bielsa is a huge fan of his compatriot but Leeds will face stiff competition for his signature with around 10 clubs showing interest in the Arsenal star.

This Leeds United transfer rumour has blazed on throughout the summer and will only come to a head when Martinez and Arsenal come a decision on his future at the club.

Loan Deal Preferred For Batshuayi

It looks like Chelsea are going to sign Leeds United transfer target Michy Batshuayi to a new contract before loaning him out for the 2020/21 campaign.

Batshuayi has plenty of Premier League experience and has been linked with an Elland Road switch ahead of Leeds’ impending return to England’s top flight.

With Chelsea signing the likes of Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech this summer, Batshuayi has been deemed surplus to requirements for the time being in west London.

Frank Lampard has praised Batshuayi’s patience but understands that he wants regular first team football and the Chelsea boss is willing to let the Belgium forward leave the club.

A loan deal looks the most likely scenario ahead of 2020/21, though Leeds may be given an option to buy following the conclusion of his spell away from Stamford Bridge.


*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*

 

September 6, 2020

By Alex McMahon

Alex McMahon Sport
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Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.

He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.

As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible. 
 

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Less than 24 hours after we reported on Jhon Chancellor’s potential move to Elland Road, today’s Leeds United transfer news suggests that the Brescia man has opted for a switch to Brighton & Hove Albion instead.

According to Italian news source PianetaSerieB.it, the Seagulls have managed to beat Leeds to Chancellor’s signature with less than one week to go until the 2020/21 season.

He looks well suited to English football and Leeds fans will be gutted to miss out on this transfer.

Leeds and Brighton have clashed throughout the summer transfer window, with twists and turns regarding Ben White’s future. The defender spent last season on loan at Leeds but the Seagulls stood firm over their asking price for the 22-year-old.

With White tied down on an extended contract at the Amex Stadium, Leeds turned their attention towards Chancellor but it looks like he will also end up on the south coast. If true, this is a major blow for Leeds ahead of their return to the Premier League.

However, reports have also linked Leeds with a move for Tottenham Hotspur’s Juan Foyth. Marcelo Bielsa could focus primarily on attempting to sign the Spurs man before the summer transfer window slams shut.

Leeds Set For Talks Over Barcelona Star

Barcelona midfielder Rafinha could move to Leeds United ahead of the upcoming Premier League campaign, according to talkSPORT sources.

Having been loaned out to Celta Vigo last season, Rafinha has struggled to hold down a spot in the first team at Camp Nou and a summer exit could be on the cards.

Reports suggest that Barcelona are asking for £14 million to sign the 27-year-old and he is one of the top Leeds United player rumours to follow throughout the transfer window.

While Celta Vigo are keen to sign the midfielder on a permanent deal, the Spanish side are unwilling to match Barcelona’s valuation and the door is open for Leeds to swoop in.

Rafinha is allegedly keen for a Premier League switch so a move looks likely if Leeds and Barcelona can agree on a fair transfer fee for all parties.

Gvardiol Deal Edging Closer To Completion

Leeds are one step closer to completing a move for Dinamo Zagreb’s Josko Gvardiol. Reports in Croatia state that the Whites will pay £17.7 million to bring the defender to Elland Road.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the progress on his Twitter account, writing “agreement to be reached soon for Josko Gvardiol to Leeds. Confirmed. Talks still on for Rodrigo De Paul.”

It has been a busy summer for Leeds United transfer rumours with a flurry of activity ahead of their return to the Premier League. Leeds fans will be hoping that the club are well placed to build for a long future in England’s top flight.


*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*

September 6, 2020

By Alex McMahon

Alex McMahon Sport
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Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.

He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.

As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible. 
 

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Everton midfielder Fabian Delph has been a popular name in Leeds United transfer news articles this summer and the Goodison Park club have reportedly claimed that they are open to offers for the England international.

The Times are reporting that Delph is one of four players that Everton are willing to let go ahead of the 2020/21 campaign and his Premier League experience would certainly benefit Leeds.

This isn’t the first time that Delph has been linked with a move to Elland Road, with reports hinting at a potential bid from Leeds back in July. However, nothing materialised on that occasion.

With Everton now openly stating that Delph can leave the club, Leeds might be tempted to place an official bid for the former Manchester City man. On paper, Delph looks well suited to Marcelo Bielsa’s style of football.

The England international would bring a wealth of experience to Elland Road and versatility is one of his biggest strengths. Delph has played left back, as well as centre midfield, at the highest level of the game.

It would be some coup if Leeds could bring Delph back to Elland Road, with the midfielder starting his professional career at the club some 14 years ago. Still only 30 years old, Delph has plenty left in the tank and could thrive under Bielsa.

Green Light Given For Foyth Departure

Tottenham Hotspur have put Leeds transfers target Juan Foyth up for sale ahead of the 2020/21 Premier League season.

Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa is looking for defensive reinforcements after missing out on Brighton & Hove Albion defender Ben White.

With Robin Koch already acquired, Bielsa may look for an additional centre-back to bolster the squad ahead of Leeds’ return to the Premier League.

Foyth was popular under former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino but has struggled for game time under Jose Mourinho. A move to Elland Road could be on the cards if Leeds cough up a bid in excess of £15 million.

Joe Bryan To Extend Fulham Contract

Leeds had been linked with a potential move for Fulham’s Joe Bryan but reports claim that he has opened talks with current suitors Fulham over a new contract.

According to Football Insider sources, Fulham are looking to offer Bryan a lucrative deal in an attempt to prevent the 26-year-old from leaving Craven Cottage this summer.

With the likes of West Bromwich Albion, Newcastle United and Leicester City also showing interest in Bryan, the Fulham defender is a man in demand and the Cottagers will hope that a new deal ends any speculation of a switch.

Following his brace in the 2019/20 Championship playoff final, Bryan’s stock has increased this summer and he has featured prominently in Leeds United player rumours.


*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*

September 5, 2020

By Alex McMahon

Alex McMahon Sport
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Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.

He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.

As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible. 
 

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One of the biggest Leeds United transfer news stories of the summer, it looks like Marcelo Bielsa is prioritising a move for Thiago Almada ahead of the 2020/21 Premier League season.

According to South American outlet Ole, Leeds will need to spend an estimated £22 million to sign the 19-year-old this summer.

Labelled by many as the next Carlos Tevez, Thiago has been linked with the likes of Manchester City and Manchester United – but Leeds may have first dibs on signing the youngster.

The Velez Sarsfield star has a release clause in his contract though Leeds should have no trouble matching that figure. However, the South American side are yet to receive an official bid from Elland Road.

Thiago has scored nine goals in 46 appearances in two years at his current club but he looks like a top prospect for the future.

It would be some coup if Leeds can beat the Manchester clubs to his signature ahead of their return to England’s top flight. Keep your eye on Leeds United player rumours for the latest transfer news and gossip.

Leeds Target Lopes Will Come At A Price

Hull City manager Grant McCann has stated that midfielder Leonardo Da Silva Lopes will not come cheap this summer despite the club dropping into the third tier of English football.

The Tigers were relegated after a disappointing 2019/20 campaign but Da Silva Lopes was the one bright spark and he has been linked with a number of Premier League clubs.

However, McCann recently commented on the situation and laid out the club’s view on Da Silva Lopes’ position, “Leo wants to leave. He made that very clear at the end of last season.

“We’ve had a couple of offers for him, but none that match our valuation. He’s been back in the week after being ill. Leo is contracted here, so until someone meets the valuation – he will be our player.”

West Bromwich Albion are just one of the teams rivalling Leeds for Da Silva Lopes’ signature this summer but Hull may need to budge on their asking price if a deal is to be agreed.

Luis To Choose Milan Over Leeds?

It looks like Florentino Luis will move to AC Milan after the player’s agent confirmed he had met with the Serie A giants last week.

The 21-year-old defensive midfielder is one of Europe’s top prospects but looks set to make the switch to Italy’s top flight despite strong rumours of a move to Elland Road.

According to Tutto Mercato, Benfica have had a number of offers for Luis in recent months but AC Milan looks the most likely landing spot ahead of the 2020/21 season.

Leeds and Fulham are two of the English clubs linked with a move for Luis but AC Milan may be willing to offer a more lucrative package than the two newly promoted clubs.


*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*

September 5, 2020

By Alex McMahon

Alex McMahon Sport
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Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.

He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.

As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible. 
 

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As the Leeds United transfer news columns continue to focus on Rodrigo De Paul, Leeds fans will be happy to know they have shown interest in signing Feyenoord winger Crysencio Summerville.

According to reports in the Daily Telegraph, Leeds have opened talks with the Dutch giants over a potential for the teenager. The Whites have focused on investing heavily in youth ahead of their return to the Premier League.

Summerville impressed while out on loan at Dutch Eredivisie rivals ADO Den Haag but Leeds may come in with an offer that Feyenoord just cannot refuse.

Summerville made 22 appearances for Den Haag last season, notching two goals and three assists. As recently as July, the teenager stated that he was happy at Feyenoord and wanted to stay at the club for years to come.

He is one for the future but looks capable of doing a job at the highest level of English football if required. Leeds will have to tempt Feyenoord with a lucrative enough to snap up this hot prospect.

Leeds To Rival Brighton For Jhon Chancellor

Leeds have already had to deal with Brighton & Hove Albion this summer with the Ben White transfer saga and it looks like the Whites will do battle with the Seagulls once again in the race to sign Jhon Chancellor.

According to Tuttosport, Brescia may look to cash in on the centre-back having dropped out of Serie A ahead of the 2020/21 campaign. Both Premier League clubs have shown interest in the 28-year-old though neither side has made an official bid for the Brescia man.

Chancellor has played for his native Venezuela on 17 occasions and stands at a gigantic 1.98 metres tall. This would make him one of the tallest defenders in the Premier League and his threat at set-pieces has been well documented in the press.

With three goals in 27 appearances for Brescia last season, Chancellor is a danger in the air whilst averaging 5.6 clearances per game according to WhoScored. He ticks all the right boxes to thrive in the Premier League and Leeds may be tempted by his £4 million price tag.

Now Or Never For Leeds In Kent Pursuit

Reports in Scotland have stated that Leeds are ready to raise their original bid by 40% in an attempt to lure Ryan Kent away from Rangers this summer.

The Elland Road hierarchy have shown plenty of interest in the Rangers man in recent weeks despite Steven Gerrard’s continued stance that Kent will not be leaving Ibrox.

However, the Scottish Sun claim that Leeds are willing to offer Kent a package that will see a huge increase in salary – and Rangers may not be able to stop him from leaving before the end of the current transfer window.


*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*

 

September 4, 2020

By Alex McMahon

Alex McMahon Sport
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Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.

He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.

As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible. 
 

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The hottest piece of Leeds United transfer news today suggests that Rodrigo De Paul could yet move to Elland Road this summer despite a snag in a potential deal for the midfielder.

According to ESPN journalist David Amoyal, Udinese have accepted that he is likely to leave the club this summer and Leeds have opened initial talks to bring the 26-year-old to Elland Road.

Labelled as a player with “bit of a nasty streak in him”, De Paul would bring added bite to the Leeds midfield ahead of the club’s impending return to the Premier League.

Previous reports have hinted that De Paul could stay in Italy but Amoyal believes that the only Serie A side that he would join this summer is Juventus.

The latest rumours in Italy claim that Leeds have agreed a £31 million fee for the midfielder but Whites fans may have to wait a little longer before a deal is officially announced.

It would mean that Leeds would break their club record transfer fee for the second time this summer, having signed Rodrigo from Valencia for an estimated £27 million.

Although described as a player with a nasty streak, De Paul’s disciplinary record isn’t terrible on reflection. The Udinese midfielder is physical but looks well suited to the Premier League.

Robinson Urges Leeds To Sign Experienced Keeper

Paul Robinson believes that Leeds must sign a veteran goalkeeper ahead of their return to England’s top flight later this month.

Illan Meslier heads into the 2020/21 campaign as Leeds’ primary option at the position, with Kiko Casilla now the club’s second choice shot stopper.

However, Leeds could do with an experienced top flight goalkeeper – not only on the pitch but to help the club with crucial insight on the training ground.

Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Robinson said, “Illan Meslier has done very well when he’s come in. Kiko Casilla has the experience, though.

“He’s been the number one for Leeds for the majority of the time under Marcelo Bielsa. I think you need three strong goalkeepers in the Premier League.

“Tottenham have just taken in Joe Hart – look at the three keepers they’ve got. Premier League sides tend to have three strong keepers.

“I’d like to see Leeds strengthen in that area. Meslier has done really well so far, but what happens if he gets injured?

“I’d like to see them sign an experienced, older goalkeeper who can come in and play in the Premier League if needed. Someone like Pepe Reina.”

Reina joined Serie A giants Lazio on a free transfer at the end of last season but a player of that calibre would certainly give Leeds a huge boost ahead of their Premier League return.


*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*

 

September 4, 2020

By Alex McMahon

Alex McMahon Sport
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Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.

He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.

As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible. 
 

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Saturday sees the 54th running of the Sprint Cup being run at Haydock Park, a race that features some of the fastest horses in Europe.

Be Friendly won the initial running of the race in 1966 and there is a statue in his memory right next to the paddock at the Merseyside track. Be Friendly registered back-to-back victories in 1966 and 1967 and is the only horse ever to do so thus far.

The Sprint Cup is steeped in history with Champions including classic sprinters such as the late Sir Peter O’Sullevan’s Be Friendly, Danehill and G-Force, and three times winning jockeys Lester Piggott, Pat Eddery and Willie Carson.

Let’s take a look at all the Sprint Cup trends and statistics with a view to aiding you with your online betting:

  • Age: 8/10 winners were aged between 3 and 5.
  • Rating: 9/10 winners had a rating of 111 or higher.
  • Season Form: 10/10 winners had at least 3 runs that season.
  • Course Form: 7/10 winners had at least one previous run at Haydock.
  • Group Form: 8/10 winners had at least one win in a Group 1-3 race.
  • Last Time Out: 3/10 winners won on their last run before the Sprint Cup.
  • Price: 7/10 winners were in the top 3 in the betting.

Runner-by-Runner Guide:

Brando (Kevin Ryan)

The Kevin Ryan team is represented by a trio of runners in this race and naturally one of those runners is Brando, runner-up in 2018 and fourth last year.

The eight-year old does go on soft ground, as his second to The Tin Man in 2018 thus proved, but all his best form has been on quick crowd and he does look up against it here.

Dream Of Dreams (Sir Michael Stoute)

Bounced back to winning ways in spectacular fashion in the Hungerford Stakes at Newbury and a reproduction of that run would leave the others trailing in his wake in this.

The six-year-old handles soft ground and he is also a course and distance winner. What is there not to like about him and his chances?

Glen Shiel (Archie Watson)

A winner of three of his last four starts and his Group Three triumph at the Curragh last time was a highly commendable effort.

The six-year-old is also the first ride in a Group One in Britain for Hollie Doyle. No pressure there then!

Hello Youmzain (Kevin Ryan)

Winner of the Diamond Jubilee Stakes and also victorious in last year's Betfair Sprint Cup, the four-year-old was also second in the Prix Maurice de Gheest over six furlongs at Deauville and comes into this race at the top of his game.

Can he emulate Be Friendly and win back-to-back renewals of this contest? Well 7/2 in our horse racing betting says he can.

Summerghand (David O’Meara)

Stewards’ Cup winner and perhaps one of the greatest Placepot horses in the land at the moment, but whether he can make the frame in this, his toughest task to date, looks a little improbable.

He did however finish a neck second in Listed company last weekend so one can never say never.

Tabdeed (Owen Burrows)

Tabdeed defeated The Tin Man in the Hackwood Stakes at Newbury in July and has not been seen out since.

This will be his first run in Group One company and there is a suspicion that he may not be entirely at home on any ground resembling soft.

The Tin Man (James Fanshawe)

The eight-year-old boasts form figures of 1-2-2-3 in this race and it would be folly to write him off just yet, just for the sake of backing a younger rival.

The Tin Man seems to come alive at this venue and should be shortlisted for a place at least.

Art Power (Tim Easterby)

Three-year-old is Art Power was a Group Three winner at Naas in July and Tim Easterby is chasing down a third Sprint Cup following Pipalong (2000) and Somnus (2003).

He needs to bounce back quickly from his poor Nunthorpe performance and if there is plenty of juice in the ground on Saturday, he could do just that.

Golden Horde (Clive Cox)

Three-year-olds have an excellent record in this race in recent years and Clive Cox will be hoping that the trend continues this weekend.

Golden Horde recorded his biggest career success in the Group One Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot and his other top level efforts this season have been solid.

Haydock looks perfect for him and he should run a big race.

Lope Y Fernandez (Aidan O’Brien)

Placed in the Irish 2000 Guineas, Prix Jean Prat and Prix Maurice De Gheest so far this term, the Lope De Vega-colt deserves a change of luck and a win of his own.

The niggling doubt about him is whether he needs further than this six furlongs? He’ll probably be running on late again after the bird has flown one suspects.

Archer’s Dream (James Fanshawe)

Like the Tin Man, this is another horse owned by Fred Archer Racing, and this four-year-old is another likeable sort.

Archer’s Dream scored over course and distance on his latest start on soft ground and he has to come into the reckoning should Haydock conditions turn out like that again.

Forever In Dreams (Aidan Fogarty)

Aidan Fogarty’s star filly Forever In Dreams could well be the forgotten horse in Saturday’s feature race.

A former Listed prize winner at this racecourse, Forever In Dreams comes into this event on the back of a couple of great races this season at the Curragh with the most notable of those being her close second to Glen Shiel in the Phoenix Stakes.

The four-year-old looks well overpriced.

Queen Jo Jo (Kevin Ryan)

Kevin Ryan’s grey filly ran a fine second in the City Of York Stakes earlier this month and she also finished second here in Listed company back in June.

She will have to prove herself at this level but she could well be a contender.

Sprint Cup: 888 Prediction

A really hot renewal but Hello Youmzain looks a gutsy enough horse to battle his way to victory again.

Each-way punters should look no further than Forever In Dreams who looks well poised to do herself justice.

888sport suggests: Hello Youmzain and Forever In Dreams.


*Credit for the main photo belongs to Jae C. Hong / AP Photo*

 

FIRST PUBLISHED: 3rd September 2020

September 3, 2020

By Steve Mullington

Steve Mullington
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    Steven is a sports and horse racing enthusiast and is a member of the Horseracing Writers and Photographers Association (HWPA) in the United Kingdom.

    He is a regular visitor to Paris Longchamp for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe and a lifelong fan of the Aintree Grand National, a subject he writes about 52 weeks of the year. Last year he reached the impressive milestone of attending the last 30 renewals of the Grand National.

    Steven graduated from the University Of Lancaster in 1996 with a B.A (Hons) in Urban Policy & Race Relations (major) with Contemporary Religions & Belief Systems (minor) and still wonders if any of these help him find the winners?

    He writes for a number of websites and online publications and you can sometimes hear him at the weekend discussing racing on a number of local radio stations. 

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    The final Grand Slam of the calendar year, the US Open can be a chance at history or an opportunity to redeem a disappointing season. For many of these tennis betting favourites, it was usually the former.

    Best Men's US Open Players:

    New York is an exciting place to travel to on the back of a great season, but the pressure can be crippling for those who have underwhelmed in the preceding months.

    Featuring many of the top 10 tennis players ever, this article looks at the greatest players in the history of the US Open. It isn’t all about titles won, though, with Bjorn Borg sneaking into the list.

    Stefan Edberg

    A six-time Grand Slam winner, Edberg lifted the US Open in back-to-back years. Edberg only made the semis on four occasions, in 1986, 1987, 1991 and 1992.

    It was the two early nineties tournaments when he was victorious, but poor runs before and after his successes leave him 10th on this list.

    Edberg’s winning percentage at the US Open was lower it was at Wimbledon and the Australian Open – he doesn’t make the top 10 all-time in that category.

    Only 10 players ever have won multiple US Opens, though, and that was enough for Edberg to sneak on this list.

    Bjorn Borg

    Borg never won the US Open in his glittering career. His record at Flushing Meadows is still superb. Borg’s 81.6% winning percentage is tenth among players with at least 20 wins, and he was a four-time finalist.

    The Swede twice fell to Jimmy Connors and twice to John McEnroe in the final, with his 1980 clash with McEnroe ranking among the best US Open finals.

    Only Novak Djokovic and Ivan Lendl have lost more US Open finals than Borg.

    Andre Agassi

    Although a two-time US Open champion, Agassi could never replicate his Australian Open dominance at his home Slam.

    Agassi won four times on the hard courts in Melbourne, but he suffered disappointments aplenty in New York.

    Four finals losses, thrice to Pete Sampras, once to Roger Federer, left Agassi with a what-might-have-been record at the US Open.

    Agassi holds the record for the most consecutive appearances at the tournament, however, appearing in 21 in a row from 1986 through to 2006.

    Ivan Lendl

    Lendl made it to the US Open final on eight occasions, winning three and losing five. His loss to Mats Wilander was an epic, and he was unfortunate to face so many all-time greats.

    Only five players have more US Open titles than Lendl, though. He’s fourth all-time in tournament wins and sixth in winning percentage.

    Making the final in eight years in a row is a spectacular achievement.

    Lendl’s career is perhaps underrated – he’s one of the greatest US Open winners, and was a couple of match wins away from being right at the top of these rankings.

    Novak Djokovic

    Still a prominent name in online betting, there’s plenty of time for Djokovic to ascend into the top three of this list.

    Although fifth in total wins, the Serbian is second all-time in winning percentage.

    There’s a case for Djokovic to be higher. He’s already one of the greatest players ever, and he’s on course to strengthen his candidacy for that crown.

    Djokovic has only lost nine of his 26 Grand Slam finals, but five of those came in New York. Following a fourth-round exit in 2019, he will be atop the US Open tips for this year’s tournament.

    Rafael Nadal

    The King Of Clay has reigned over the hard courts of New York. Nadal has won four of his five US Open finals, making him one of five players to win four or more US Open titles in the Open Era.

    Nadal has missed the tournament in the past and has often played through injury.

    He doesn’t have the same consistency in New York as he does elsewhere, and he has opted to sit out in 2020 too, citing concerns over coronavirus.

    As a result, he’s down in eighth in aggregate wins, which seemed an appropriate tiebreaker to put him fifth.

    John McEnroe

    Between 1978 and 1984, McEnroe made the semis of the US Open on all but one occasion. He won four titles in that span and finished runner-up in 1985.

    On top of his brilliance as a singles player, McEnroe also won four doubles titles in New York, making him the most successful player in US Open history.

    Partly down to era, McEnroe had a short singles peak compared to the modern greats. That worked against him here.

    Jimmy Connors

    Connors made the semi-final or better from 1974 to 1985. He won five titles along the way, and was twice a runner-up. His record of 98 US Open match wins is still nine clear of Roger Federer.

    An entertainer and so often controversial, Connors played up to the partisan New York crowds. He was a gritty opponent and played a different style in the serve-and-volley era.

    In his pomp, only the bravest tennis tips went against him.

    Pete Sampras

    The leader in all-time US Open winning percentage, Sampras won five US Opens in his career.

    He was a force to be reckoned with at Flushing Meadows throughout his career, but it was his final title that was most memorable.

    Clearly on the wane and having struggled through the season, Sampras lost in the second round at Wimbledon and entered the US Open as the 17th seed.

    He had a challenging path to his record-equalling eighth US Open final, but he navigated superbly. Meeting his old rival Agassi in the final, Sampras found top form and ended his career on a wonderful high.

    Roger Federer

    Deep into his thirties, Federer remains a stalwart of the best tennis betting tips.

    When it comes to peak US Open performance, Federer is far clear of the rest. He won all five of his titles in a row in the 2000s and looked unbeatable throughout.

    His recent record in New York is patchier, perhaps the late-season fatigue plays a greater part as he’s got into the back end of his career, but Federer’s record of five straight titles and a further two finals warrants top spot.


    Visit 888 Sport for smashing tennis bets

     

    *Credit for the main photo belongs to Amy Sancetta / AP Photo*

     

    FIRST PUBLISHED: 3rd September 2020

     

     

    September 3, 2020
    Body

    Sam is a sports tipster, specialising in the Premier League and Champions League.

    He covers most sports, including cricket and Formula One. Sam particularly enjoys those on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean – notably MLB and NBA.

    Watching, writing and talking about sports betting takes up most of his time, whether that is for a day out at T20 Finals Day or a long night of basketball.

    Having been writing for several years, Sam has been working with 888Sport since 2016, contributing multiple articles per week to the blog.

    Sam Cox
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    The list of the fastest goals in Premier League history is a mixed one.

    We have a goalkeeper, we have the all-time record scorer, and we have a striker renowned for not scoring. The circumstances are varied, some aided by the weather, others by calamitous defending.

    Fastest Premier League Goal:

    1. Shane Long - 7.69 seconds

    2. Ledley King - 9.82 seconds

    3. Alan Shearer - 10.52 seconds

    4. Christian Eriksen - 10.54 seconds

    5. Mark Viduka - 11.9 seconds

    6. Dwight Yorke - 12.16 seconds

    7. Chris Sutton - 12.94 seconds

    8. Kevin Nolan - 13.48 seconds

    9. James Beattie - 13.52 seconds

    10. Asmir Begovic - 13.64 seconds

    Several of these goals, coming in the first 10 seconds or so of a match, will have had a major impact on Premier League Odds.

    There is something chaotic about a goal so early. It sends the Soccer Saturday team into panic, and to use a cliché loved by commentators, it throws gameplans out the window. Here are the 10 fastest Premier League goals in history…

    10) Asmir Begovic

    Aided by the blustery Potteries wind, Asmir Begovic owns the record for the 10th earliest goal in top flight history and, by quite some margin, the fastest Premier League goal by a goalkeeper.

    With the ball trickling back to Begovic soon after the kick-off, he decided to go for an agricultural hoof up the field.

    Little did he know he would be celebrating a goal soon after as the wind swept the ball towards the goal, bouncing over Artur Boruc and into the net to become only the fifth goalkeeper to score a Premier League goal.

    9) James Beattie

    Chelsea didn’t concede many in 2004/05, but James Beattie took just 13.52 seconds to get the break through for Southampton.

    A Joe Cole error gave Beattie a chance, and the journeyman striker unleashed a volley from range that flew past Petr Cech.

    Chelsea were atop the outright winner odds, but Beattie’s strike made it a challenging afternoon for Jose Mourinho.

    8) Kevin Nolan

    Kevin Nolan and Kevin Davies were the heart of a surprisingly competitive Bolton side in the mid-noughties.

    It was Davies who set up Nolan in 2004 for an opener in 13.48 seconds against Blackburn Rovers. The two linked up often, but there weren’t many occasions when Davies was crossing the ball. This was one of them.

    7) Chris Sutton

    Alan Shearer and Chris Sutton are one of the Premier League’s great striker partnerships.

    In April 1995, they linked up like they did so many times over the years. A long ball was flicked on by Shearer in April 1995, and Sutton chased it down.

    Sutton calmly finished, and Rovers were leading Everton within 13 seconds. At the top of football betting all season long, Blackburn lifted their first, and only, Premier League title the following month.

    6) Dwight Yorke

    Best known for his stint in the red of Manchester United, Dwight Yorke earns his place on this list in the colours of Aston Villa.

    Facing Coventry City in 1995, Yorke headed home a cross just over 12 seconds into the match.

    5) Mark Viduka

    Back in the days when Leeds were a top four betting favourite, Mark Viduka’s got an extremely early goal similar to several others on this list.

    Alan Smith got a touch on it to put Viduka through in March 2001, and moments later Leeds were 1-0 up against Charlton.

    The former Celtic striker finished the 2000/01 season with 17 Premier League goals, a tally only bettered by Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink and Marcus Stewart. Leeds had to settle for fourth, one point outside the Champions League places.

    4) Christian Eriksen

    Christian Eriksen netted the fastest goal at Wembley in 2018, an accolade that might never be beaten.

    Spurs, playing at home to Manchester United, had time for a Harry Kane knock-down, and a touch from Dele Alli, before Eriksen found the net before the 11-second mark.

    3) Alan Shearer

    There was no quick team move for Shearer’s entry on this list. Manchester City goalkeeper Carlo Nash lost his footing as a backpass approached, allowing Shearer the easiest of rapid goals.

    Newcastle finished third in 2002/03, but it wasn’t Shearer’s most prolific season – he finished with 17 league goals, only good for sixth in the scoring charts.

    2) Ledley King

    Ledley King held the fastest goal record for the best part of two decades. King scored in under 10 seconds against Bradford in December 2000.

    His ambitious effort from range took a wicked deflection, bouncing into the far corner. King’s shock opener kick-started an epic, with Bradford fighting back to force a 3-3 draw.

    1) Shane Long

    The 'fastest Premier League goal' feels like a very Shane Long record to hold. Long is a striker with a reputation for goal droughts, a player who works tirelessly for little reward, but has the pace to harass defences.

    He’s never an online betting favourite to open the scoring, but he did just that against Watford in April 2019.

    Watford took kick-off and played it back to Craig Cathcart. Typically, Long hustled to close down the Hornets’ centre-back and blocked his attempted long pass.

    It ricocheted behind the defence, Long chased it down, and dinked over Ben Foster to secure his place in the Premier League record books.


    *Credit for the main photo belongs to Frank Augstein / AP Photo*

    June 24, 2023
    Body

    Sam is a sports tipster, specialising in the Premier League and Champions League.

    He covers most sports, including cricket and Formula One. Sam particularly enjoys those on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean – notably MLB and NBA.

    Watching, writing and talking about sports betting takes up most of his time, whether that is for a day out at T20 Finals Day or a long night of basketball.

    Having been writing for several years, Sam has been working with 888Sport since 2016, contributing multiple articles per week to the blog.

    Sam Cox
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