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RFC: Fans react to McGregor news

Fans of Glasgow Rangers have been reacting to a post on Twitter, in which Rangers confirmed that Gers goalkeeper, Allan McGregor, has penned a new deal at Ibrox.

According to a statement posted on the club website, McGregor has put pen to paper on a one-year contract extension with Rangers, a deal that will see the 39-year-old remain at Ibrox until the summer of 2022.

Commenting on the shot-stopper’s new deal, the Rangers manager, Steven Gerrard, heaped a considerable amount of praise on the former Scotland international, claiming that McGregor has been “outstanding” since his arrival in 2018, as well as suggesting that the ‘keeper is well in contention for being one of the club’s best-ever number ones.

And, after the club relayed the news on Twitter, fans of Rangers flocked to have their say on the matter, with many appearing delighted at the prospect of McGregor remaining at Ibrox for a further year.

So, what exactly did these Rangers fans have to say in reaction to the news regarding Allan McGregor’s contract?

“This better not be an April Fool’s.”

@cjnovo992

“Yessss. This season’s save montage would be lovely.”

@ggh1992

“FINALLY.”

@RFCMatt7

“Class news.”

@nathrfc1

“Delighted with that. A real hero of this season.”

@alanmurdoch70

“Superb news.”

@r_i_mac83

“This, this right here… is content.”

@Logan81316517

“Things you love to see.”

@StuartY19

“Absolutely brilliant.”

@petermartin41

“The best ever news. What a boy. What a keeper, man.”

@TB72_

In other news: this source dropped Rangers’ plans for a sensational summer signing; ‘outstanding’ 25-goal star in the mix – find out more here!

Noel Whelan hails Leeds hero Stuart Dallas

Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan is the latest to heap praise on Stuart Dallas following his weekend heroics.

Marcelo Bielsa picked up arguably their best win of the season on Saturday afternoon, clinching a dramatic 2-1 triumph away to Manchester City. Liam Cooper’s red card just before the interval saw Leeds have to battle with 10 men for more than half the game, but they dug deep at the Etihad Stadium.

Dallas was the hero on the day, scoring both of his side’s goals, including the stoppage time winner, as he again outlined his importance.

[freshpress-quiz id=“351040″]

Dallas lauded by Whelan

Speaking to Football Insider, ex-Premier League attacker Whelan waxed lyrical over the 29-year-old, describing him as an ‘incredible’ player:

“Just simply immense. He was my player of the year last season and he hasn’t let up since then. He has been exactly the same this year. The man is just incredible for Leeds United.

“Everything you want from a player, he has got: character, desire, hunger and professionalism. The last goal highlights that.

“He was busting a gut to get forward having done so much defensive work. He should have been drained and shattered but what a run.

“He is Mr. Leeds at the moment. Dallas can do no wrong, whatever position you play him in. His fitness levels are through the roof. When you are shattered, to produce a finish and run like that… Wow, incredible.”

Transfer Tavern take

Dallas may not be the most fashionable footballer, but there is no denying how influential he is for Leeds, proving to be such a key cog in the machine. His match average of 2.2 successful tackles is the fifth-highest at Elland Road, while just two players can better his 53 passes per game (WhoScored).

His versatility makes him a priceless squad member, allowing him to thrive in several positions, and his fitness levels and eye for goal – he has scored seven times in the league this season, joint-second at Leeds to Patrick Bamfod – also stand out.

In other news, Marcelo Bielsa is set to build his team around one player next season – find out who it is here.

Birmingham must swoop for Paterson

Lee Bowyer’s Birmingham City side are considering a move for Jamie Paterson this summer.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to Football Insider, who claim that the Blues, as well as Nottingham Forest, Stoke City and Millwall, are interested in a move for the Bristol City attacking midfielder, who will be available to sign on a free transfer upon the expiry of his contract at Ashton Gate at the end of the season.

Potential bargain

It is unsurprising to learn that a host of second-tier sides are interested in Paterson, as the 29-year-old has a huge amount of Championship experience under his belt, scoring 39 goals and providing 35 assists over his 243 appearances in the competition.

And, while he has not been a regular under Nigel Pearson this season, the former Walsall star has shown that he can still be relied upon when required, scoring three goals and providing two assists over his 20 league appearances this term, as well as making an average of 1.3 key passes and taking one shot per game.

Furthermore, the attacking midfielder’s versatility is something that could prove extremely valuable at Birmingham, with Paterson comfortably being able to operate from the left-hand side of midfield, central midfield, left-wing, right-wing and even upfront.

Aside from his fine performances, his wealth of Championship experience and his versatility, it is also hard to ignore the financial attractiveness of a deal for the midfielder.

Currently earning a rather modest wage of £7,100-per-week, a deal for the player Lee Johnson once dubbed as “outstanding” is likely to be one that Birmingham would comfortably be able to afford, while, as the 29-year-old is out of contract, there would be no transfer fee for the Blues to stump up.

As such, it would seem as if a move for Paterson would tick a great many boxes for Bowyer and his side, who will be looking to kick on in the Championship next season after a strong finish following the former Charlton manager’s appointment at the club back in March.

In other news: Birmingham must land “frightening” 11-goal star this summer, Bowyer would love him – opinion

Celtic face competition for van Ewijk

Celtic were linked with a summer move for ADO Den Haag defender Milan van Ewijk earlier this month.

Reports from the Netherlands claimed that the Hoops, along German trio Schalke, Hamburg and Darmstadt and Belgian side Gent, were all keen on the 20-year-old.

Van Ewijk to Celtic latest

Voetbal International, cited by Sport Witness, has now provided an update on the situation. They claim that Celtic, who have ‘expressed their interest’ over van Ewijk, will now have to move quickly if they want to get him.

That’s because Dutch side Heerenveen are now ready to move for the youngster to fill their right-back void.

Transfer Tavern take

It seems as if a new right-back is required at Parkhead this summer after Jeremie Frimpong and Hatem Elhamed left earlier this year.

Voetbal International have labelled van Ewijk’s development as ‘stormy’ and describe the youngster as ‘one of the few bright spots’ at the club.

The right-back, who has also played as a centre-back, has missed just 51 minutes of Eredivisie action this season.

He currently holds a £675,000 Transfermarkt valuation and is out of contract in June 2022, so, if the Hoops are quick, they may well land an exciting talent who appears to be getting better with each passing month.

In other news: Premier League club readying bid for Celtic ace over double his market value, find out more here. 

Gers failed in Osayi-Samuel bid

As per Turkish outlet Fotospor, Glasgow Rangers made a £5m offer for Bright Osayi-Samuel before he moved to Fenerbahce in January.

Gers failed in Osayi-Samuel bid

The 23-year-old completed a move to the Turkish giants in January after the Ibrox outfit had been linked with a move for the former QPR man (The Athletic).

Reportedly, the Gers offered £5m for his services, as did Celtic.

Shame

Osayi-Samuel is clearly an exciting talent. Called “dangerous” by QPR boss Mark Warburton towards the end of last year (via West London Sport), the winger managed five goals and nine assists in the Championship last term (Transfermarkt). Fenerbahce are one of Turkey’s biggest teams and are regulars in European competition – they represent a big upgrade from the Loftus Road outfit.

With just one assist to his name in seven league games, Osayi-Samuel is yet to really get going at his new club. Ross Wilson and co could well be disappointed he did not decide to move to the 54-time Scottish champions, but the Gers did at least go out and sign Scott Wright last month instead. If they can qualify for next season’s Champions League, the Gers will be in a good position to at least bring in a player of the Nigeria native’s quality.

In other news, Rangers fans slam this journalist’s article.

Spurs’ Mourinho inspired Man Utd’s win

Tottenham Hotspur legend Gary Mabbutt has told Football FanCast that Manchester United took inspiration from Jose Mourinho’s tactics to beat Manchester City at the weekend.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men won 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium, as goals from Bruno Fernandes and Luke Shaw ended City’s run of 20 successive victories in all competitions.

City’s last defeat before the game against United came in north London, as Spurs won 2-0.

Goals from Son Heung-min and Giovani Lo Celso proved decisive that day and the statistics are remarkably similar.

In north London, Spurs had 34% possession; United had 34% possession at the Etihad Stadium. Spurs had two shots on target, United had six.

Quite simply, both Spurs and United used their time on the ball better than Pep Guardiola’s side, as they utilised efficiency over possession.

Mabbutt believes that Mourinho’s tactics inspired United as they picked up all three points.

City did not fall into the same trap against Spurs at the Etihad, as they won 3-0.

Speaking exclusively to FFC, he said: “They go to Man City and basically they did to Man City virtually exactly what Spurs did to them in Man City’s last defeat, whereby you deny them space, they need that space to create their fantastic opportunities and to create their free flowing football.

“They were denied space by Spurs and by Man United, and both teams won two goals to nil.

“So yes, I mean, it’s just showing that every single team are fallible, every single team can be beaten. Get your tactics, right, which I thought Solskjaer did and, obviously, Jose did in the game at the new stadium at Spurs.

“And yes, so for me, it showed other teams that watch and go over those games, what do they do in those games that make it difficult for Man City, take those points and try and put that into when you play against them.”

Spurs will be aiming to repeat that 2-0 victory in the League Cup final when they take on City at Wembley.

A victory at the national stadium would end Spurs’ 13-year trophy drought, as they have not lifted a cup since their League Cup triumph over Chelsea back in 2008.

They have a blueprint to follow.

Terry leaving could set Villa back

Speaking exclusively to Football FanCast, ex-Aston Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie has suggested that his old side could be hit hard by a potential John Terry exit.

The former Chelsea and England captain, who has been assistant head coach at Villa since 2018, was linked with the Bournemouth job last month and has spoken about his desire to be a No.1 in the past.

It means a Villa Park departure in the near future could be possible, and Hendrie believes such a development could handicap the Villans due to the impact Terry has had on the team’s defence this season.

When asked if Terry leaving the Midlands club would impact Dean Smith’s side, Hendrie told FFC in an exclusive interview:

“I think JT’s put his spin on things, hasn’t he? Listen, what JT comes with is bags of experience. You only need to look at the games he’s played in, where he’s played at. You know, he was an outstanding defender. So, yes, he would be missed at the club.”

Speaking on Terry’s influence further, the former Villa player added:

“I’m pretty sure you take him out of the equation, and you haven’t got someone who’s going to give them that guidance. I see JT when I go down to the games and he’s very demanding on that back four and the goalkeeper. I think you’ve got to give JT a lot of credit.”

Terry and the rest of Villa’s coaching staff definitely deserve praise for the team’s defensive improvement this season. At present, the Villans’ have the joint-third best record in the Premier League for goals conceded.

Yerry Mina let Everton down in FA Cup

Yerry Mina was a disappointment for Carlo Ancelotti despite Everton’s amazing 5-4 FA Cup victory at home to Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night.

The Colombian was recalled to the starting line-up for the Goodison Park affair having been rested at Manchester United last Saturday, but was unable to demonstrate why he was right to be brought back into the side.

Everton were far from a resolute unit in defence against Spurs and needed goalkeeper Robin Olsen to produce two sublime saves to deny the visitors a 3-0 lead in the first-half, having seen those in front of the AS Roma loanee frequently leave him wanting more.

Mina was particularly suspect in the second period when he gifted Erik Lamela a chance to test Olsen once again, with the Argentine maestro able to play a quick one-two with Heung-Min Son to get in behind and lift the ball into the back of the Blues’ net.

The former FC Barcelona defender positioned himself to go with Lamela’s run only to be caught flat-footed when Son played an instant pass through, leaving the towering 6 ft 5 titan desperately trying to stick a foot out to no avail.

Gylfi Sigurdsson had found himself at fault for two of Tottenham’s goals on Wednesday night when he failed to contain Davinson Sanchez at corners, yet atoned for his errors by producing a vastly influential display to have a hand in four of the five goals Everton struck.

Alex Iwobi also left supporters underwhelmed by his performance, as a quick search of his name on Twitter shows, with the Nigerian unable to create many chances and eventually taken off for Bernard moments after Richarlison put the Toffees 4-3 up.

Yet Mina was worse than Iwobi, having failed to make amends for his role in Lamela’s strike and often prove to be a target for Tottenham to exploit.

Mina and Iwobi shared SofaScore’s lowest match rating among those who started for Everton at 6.2 out of 10. Yet the £18m-rated Colombian saw his night end with even less merit with WhoScored, who marked him at a game-low 5.4 thanks partly to his role in Lamela’s goal.

That’s because he also failed to offer any successful tackles having not attempted to win possession in a challenge once, and made no interceptions while Lucas Digne broke up Spurs’ play on three occasions, Michael Keane once, Ben Godfrey twice, Abdoulaye Doucoure once and Tom Davies twice.

Ancelotti can usually rely on Mina to at least attempt one tackle a game with the £120,000-per-week centre-half winning 1.1 of 1.3 per outing in the Premier League this season, along with offering 1.1 interceptions.

Mina additionally lost four of his five total duels in the midweek affair, with the 26-year-old unable to live up to his usual standards of 4.9 won a game with a 63% success rate in the top-flight over 18 outings thus far this term.

The defender now faces an anxious few days before Everton host Fulham on Sunday, when his place in the side could once again come under threat.

AND in other news, Everton face heightened competition for a 17-y/o talent seen as the heir to a £101k-p/w colossus

David Moyes must swallow his pride and start West Ham winger Said Benrahma

David Moyes must swallow his pride and start Said Benrahma after the Algerian brought an immediate spark to West Ham United’s offence at Southampton on Tuesday night.

The Brentford loanee was forced to settle for a seat on the bench at St. Mary’s with Moyes favouring a recall for Pablo Fornals on the left-flank, while handing Manuel Lanzini a first Premier League start of the season besides Tomas Soucek.

Lanzini rarely saw enough of the ball to make a telling contribution as the Irons were forced to settle for a scoreless draw on the south coast, where Soucek ran for miles to aid defensively on a night his offensive contributions were often ineffective.

Fornals also let Moyes down on his return to the starting line-up with the Spaniard frequently drifting into a central role and vacating his duties on the wing, ultimately restricting the visitors’ efforts with no true outlet to spring attacks down the channel.

Moyes ultimately saw enough from his starting options to replace Lanzini with Benrahma in the 60th-minute and immediately saw an uptake in West Ham’s attacking threat, with the summer arrival’s direct runs adding a different dimension to the side.

Even still, Moyes was not totally impressed by what the 25-year-old produced against Southampton, feeling the Algerian – who Paul Robinson believes can be a “fantastic” No. 10 – had to do better when denied a first West Ham goal by a fine close-range save from Alex McCarthy in the 85th-minute.

“The minute I saw it break to him I was expecting the goal,” Moyes said, via quotes by the Newham Recorder. “I haven’t had a chance to look at it back yet, but I am told the keeper made an excellent save.”

Moyes has been claimed to not fancy Benrahma’s talents, hinting toward the reasons behind the 6-cap international only starting two fixtures since moving to the London Stadium on an initial season-long loan.

But the former Manchester United boss must swallow his pride and accept that Benrahma must be starting for the Hammers, as the 25-year-old wizard has once again proved why he has to be playing in either a central or wide role and not from the bench.

No West Ham player recorded a higher number of accurate passes than Benrahma in the final half-hour at St. Mary’s on Tuesday night, where he completed each of his eight efforts of which six came in the final-third, per WhoScored.

He additionally beat his marker with his sole recorded attempted dribble and took a game-high two shots with one on target, double the total efforts attempted by Lanzini during his hour on the field.

AND in other news, a £7m-rated West Ham dud betrayed David Moyes with a sloppy Saints horror show.

Leeds target Tavernier can replace Harrison

Leeds United have emerged as one of the clubs interested in the services of Marcus Tavernier. According to TEAMtalk this week, the Whites have been listed alongside Everton, Leicester and Wolves as parties circling a potential move for the Middlesbrough star.

Tavernier has attracted a lot of attention thanks to his convincing performances on the wing. But his immense versatility is another very intriguing factor which has got potential buyers on the end of Boro’s rod.

As highlighted by Transfermarkt, the 21-year-old makes easy work of adapting to new positions across the pitch. Despite being a left midfielder by trade, Tavernier is comfortable playing on the opposite flank as well as in central midfield and further forward in both the engine room and on the wing.

This will make him a vital asset to Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds side, who are seriously lacking creativity in other positions. Patrick Bamford is the team’s highest scorer so far this season with 10 goals – next behind him is Mateusz Klich with a huge drop down to three, according to BBC Sport.

Adding a young, quick and creative wide man to their roster will really give Leeds a boost in attack. It will also alleviate pressure from Bamford, who is the main source of the team’s goals.

As it stands, the Whites have just one recognised left-winger/midfielder on their senior roster. Jack Harrison is the only man who can comfortably fill that role and he is currently only at the club on loan.

Leeds have an option to buy but it remains to be seen whether the Manchester City ace will return to the Etihad in the summer or move to Elland Road permanently – the former would leave Bielsa with very few cards to play on the left.

Tavernier, who is currently on a £4,900 per week deal with Boro, would be a very tactical bit of business. Not only would he fill a gaping hole in the Leeds squad, but his eagerness to develop will be a welcome gift to the newly promoted Whites.

According to Transfermarkt, he is on six goal contributions for the season so far, just one less than Harrison. Playing with a clinical goal poacher like Bamford would massively up his numbers and indeed, Leeds’ threat as a Premier League side once more.

In other news, the emergence of Crysencio Summerville could mean trouble for Ian Poveda…

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