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TalkSPORT pundit Alex Crook has claimed that the correct decision was made after Manchester United’s  Marcel Sabitzer was not awarded a card following what appeared to be a dangerous tackle.

What did Sabitzer do in United’s win?

In the first half against Leicester, the on-loan midfielder launched a heavy tackle on defender Wout Faes, in which his studs appeared to make contact above the Belgian’s knee.

Graeme Souness claimed that Sabitzer should have been awarded a red card for the dangerous tackle, but the Austrian was controversially not even booked for the challenge.

Speaking on TalkSPORT, (1.00) Crook claimed that whilst it wasn’t the best tackle from Sabitzer, that the decision to not award a red card was the correct one.

“Having seen the replay, there wasn’t enough force in the tackle,” he stated.

“If you watch it, he actually almost tries to turn his foot away. I think Alexis MacAllister’s challenge in the game against Crystal Palace last week was worthy.

“I agree with the call on Sabitzer, there was more momentum behind that. I think it was clumsy from Sabitzer,”

A game-changing decision?

Interestingly, the Premier League backed up Alex Crooks’ claim with their explanation also being the lack of force in the tackle.

Leicester started the first half as the better team, forcing David De Gea into a number of fine saves before Marcus Rashford eventually opened the scoring, but if United were reduced to ten as a result of the Sabitzer tackle, the outcome could have been different.

Erik ten Hag’s side were already missing Casemiro through suspension, and losing another central midfielder today would have reduced their options further.

With the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle their next domestic game, Sabitzer would have missed the trip to Wembley if he was awarded the red card and given a subsequent ban, and he will be breathing a sigh of relief that the referee did not send him off.

Everton manager Sean Dyche will have an exciting option to bring back into the fold when Nathan Patterson is able to return from injury.

What’s the latest?

The Toffees have been without Patterson for a few weeks now after the right-back picked up an injury issue in the game against Brighton & Hove Albion.

Patterson sustained ligament damage in his knee and it is believed he could be out for around six weeks, which would suggest he could return in just over one week.

In his place, veteran Seamus Coleman has stepped up and played a huge role in their victory over Arsenal on the weekend as he faced up against the in-form Gabriel Martinelli.

However, speaking to Football FanCast, journalist Pete O’Rourke has claimed seeing Patterson return will provide Dyche an extra option which he could unleash:

“But I felt Seamus Coleman was excellent against Arsenal the other day as well and really stepped up to the mark as well. But yeah, just gives Sean Dyche an extra option in defence as well once Patterson’s back to full fitness.”

Something different

Coleman has been a sensational servant for Everton having now racked up 399 appearances for the Toffees after signing for just £62k back in 2009.

And up against the young Brazilian for Arsenal, the 34-year-old was able to provide Dyche with six clearances and one tackle during the 90 minutes at Goodison Park (via SofaScore).

However, the young Petterson has shown some remarkable form for the Toffees since arriving from Rangers last January.

The 21-year-old ranks inside the top fifth percentile for tackles, blocks and clearances made per 90 minutes among other full-backs (via Fbref).

And in comparison to Coleman, Patterson has been able to provide Everton with more shot-creating actions and passes per 90 minutes.

It is apparent the youngster’s form in an Everton shirt has caught the attention of those back up in his motherland with BBC man Simon Donnelly lavishing him with high praise:

“There’s no fear in his play, wants to get forward at any opportunity, he’s easily slotted into this Scotland team and has already scored a goal. I’ve seen how he’s a fan favourite for Everton and he’s going from strength to strength,” he said.

It will be interesting to see how Dyche integrates Patterson back into the side when he returns to the squad as he knows what he will get from Coleman.

However, it is apparent that with Patterson, Dyche could provide the Toffees with a bright spark down the right side of the pitch.

Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Jordan Pickford is ‘one to look out for’ in the summer, according to Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge.

The Lowdown: Lloris past it?

Hugo Lloris has been a vital player for Tottenham since arriving at the club in 2012, making 442 appearances in a Spurs shirt, but he has recently received criticism for some poor performances.

Graeme Souness slammed the Frenchman after the New Year’s Day defeat to Aston Villa by declaring that he is ‘past his sell-by date’, while Jamie Carragher labelled him a ‘liability’ live on Sky Sports after the recent 4-2 defeat at Manchester City.

As such, the Lilywhites now appear to be thinking about a long-term replacement for the 36-year-old…

The Latest: Pickford in Levy’s sights

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Bridge claimed that Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy could capitalise on a poor season from Everton in order to sign Pickford.

The reporter said: “I think if Everton get relegated, Daniel Levy would like the England goalkeeper, maybe as an option. People throw names at me and I don’t think I’d rule anyone out at this stage, I think they will all be considered, so it’s one to look out for in the summer.”

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The Verdict: Get it done?

Hailed as ‘outstanding’ by Micky Gray, the 50-cap England international has usually shone for his country and was particularly impressive at Euro 2021, a tournament in which he picked up two more clean sheets than any other goalkeeper.

While Everton have had a very disappointing 2022/23 campaign, their ‘keeper has prevented them from finding themselves in an even more perilous position, displaying that he is a big-game player with an incredible performance against Liverpool in September.

The 28-year-old was handed a remarkable 9.2 match rating by Sofascore for a display in which he made a total of seven saves from inside the penalty box, helping to seal what could prove to be an important point at the end of the season.

Given his age, Pickford could be first choice between the sticks for several years to come, and if the Toffees are relegated, then a move to Tottenham is likely to be a very attractive proposition for him so that he can continue playing top-flight football.

Manchester United are interested in possibly bringing Brentford goalkeeper David Raya, according to The Telegraph.

The Lowdown: Butland in…

The Red Devils have already bolstered their goalkeeping ranks this month by bringing in Jack Butland on loan from Crystal Palace.

United chiefs brought the Englishman to Old Trafford after Martin Dubravka was recalled by Newcastle United, with Butland to provide competition to David de Gea alongside Tom Heaton. However, it looks as if another ‘keeper addition could soon be on the cards in Spain international Raya.

The Latest: United keen on Raya

The Telegraph shared a story on Wednesday, claiming that Manchester United and Chelsea are interested in Raya.

The report states that those two clubs are ready to rival fellow top-flight rivals Tottenham in the race for Raya’s services as he enters the final 18 months of his Brentford deal.

The Verdict: Makes sense

You can see why United are on the search for another potential addition in goal, with De Gea and Heaton both out of contract at the end of the season.

Raya has gone from strength to strength with the Bees and appears to be at the top of his game with a career-high €22m Transfermarkt valuation.

He has been one of Brentford’s top performers this season, as per WhoScored, and has made more saves than any other goalkeeper so far this season (81).

Therefore, you could say that United may be targeting a player at the peak of his powers, however, they could face competition from two of the so-called big six for his signature.

Leeds United’s rumours linking them with Ben Brereton-Diaz persist, with a respected journalist expecting a patient approach to the deal.

What’s the latest?

That’s according to CBS reporter Ben Jacobs, who has suggested him as a target following reports in the past linking Victor Orta with a move.

The journalist would issue the following update, with his own input on when he thinks the Chilean might move, to GIVEMESPORT: “There are others as well that Leeds United are looking at, and I think that one of them is still going to be Ben Brereton Diaz who’s at Blackburn.

“And Brereton Diaz has already vowed to stay at the club until next summer, so they might have to play a longer game on that one. But we wait and see whether or not Leeds can influence that situation in any way shape or form.”

“Phenomenal” deal

Boasting plenty of goals for their place in the division, having scored 22 times in just 14 games, it would make sense for the Whites to focus on solidity rather than added goals.

Despite this, it seems Jesse Marsch clearly cannot resist an opportunity to bolster his attack, with Ben Brereton-Diaz proving an extraordinary option for a Premier League club willing to take the risk.

The 23-year-old has already scored nine times this season in the Championship, assisting a further three in just 24 games.

He seems poised to match his equally impressive tally of 22 in the league from last campaign.

As such, Brereton-Diaz has more than earned the label of a “dangerous finisher” that Dean Smith branded him.

Throughout his short career, he already has 52 goals to his name, which he pairs with a further 22 assists. That seems set to expand exponentially with each passing season given his blistering form following his switch in nationality.

Boasting the qualities to be a target man or a striker who comes to feet, it seems like given the continued absence of Patrick Bamford, this could be his ideal replacement.

With goals hardly at a premium at Elland Road, to sign the man dubbed a “phenomenal player” by football scout Ron Dor could remain a stroke of genius despite other urgencies.

Phil Hay revealed earlier today that Jesse Marsch would be prioritising a left back and a forward for the coming windows, and this lethal marksman could fit the bill perfectly for the latter spot.

Southampton have been told Ryan Fraser would be a ‘really nice option’ for a January transfer swoop by transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Lowdown: Jones targeting winger

The Northern Echo recently detailed that the Saints are set to make an early January move for the Newcastle United winger, who could potentially become Nathan Jones’ first signing.

With the club in the midst of a relegation battle, another attacking option may be required to fire them to safety, and with the Magpies reportedly willing to field offers for Fraser, the door could be open for a switch to St Mary’s.

The Latest: Jones reacts

Jones told GIVEMESPORT that the 28-year-old would be well-suited to a Southampton move, due to his age and his desire to leave his current club:

“I think it would be a really nice option, actually. Fraser has clearly got his mind open at the moment to a transfer.

“He’s very hungry, and he’s at an age where he still has a lot to offer. I think Southampton can definitely do worse than to be pursuing a transfer like this.”

The Verdict: Make it happen

Newcastle reporter Miles Starforth has hailed the £42k-per-week earner as being ‘superb’ in a black and white shirt, and although he has largely been a bit-part player for the Magpies this season, he could have a new lease of life with the Saints.

Most well-known for his pace, which reporter Keith Downie claimed the Republic of Ireland ‘couldn’t handle’ during a fine display for Scotland back in September, the speedster would inject new life into the Southampton attack, which has only mustered up a disappointing 13 goals this season.

The Scot has had previous success on the South Coast with AFC Bournemouth, most notably in the 2018-19 season, in which he registered seven goals and 14 assists in the Premier League, the latter tally being the second-highest of any player in the division.

Fraser is a proven performer in the Premier League, and exactly what Jones needs in his squad if he is able to instigate a change of fortunes and avoid relegation to the Championship.

Celtic have made contact with Egypt international Afsha’s representatives over a move to Parkhead, according to a fresh claim from journalist Mark Hendry.

The Lowdown: Afsha linked with Celtic

The Hoops are currently on a break from Premiership action, with the World Cup the main point of focus at the moment. Afsha – full name Mohamed Magdy – is not taking part in Qatar, though, due to Egypt’s failure to qualify for the tournament.

The 26-year-old has been linked with a move to Celtic recently, and it now looks as though the transfer is edging closer all the time, following the addition of Alistair Johnston on Saturday.

The Latest: Celtic make contact

Taking to Twitter in sharing a report for Football Scotland, Hendry confirmed that contact has now been made with Afsha’s people regarding a move to Celtic possibly coming to fruition.

The reporter tweeted:

“EXCLUSIVE! Celtic contact Afsha representatives over January transfer as Ange Postecoglou eyes further additions.”

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The Verdict: More depth for Postecoglou

Afsha could be a shrewd potential acquisition by Celtic as Ange Postecoglou looks to continue building a squad which can compete both domestically and in Europe.

The Al Ahly midfielder’s international experience of 20 caps speaks volumes about his quality, and he has also scored 35 goals and registered 42 assists in the Egyptian Premier League.

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Afsha could add an extra attacking spark for Celtic, invariably taking up an offensive midfield role, providing ammunition for team-mates and also chipping in with goals himself.

Nottingham Forest haven’t had the fairytale start to their Premier League return supporters might have dreamed of and with an ambitious transfer window in the summer that saw the club sign 22 new players, there is no doubt Evangelos Marinakis would have been hoping for better performances.

Indeed, the Tricky Trees had just begun to find their feet in the top flight in their last five fixtures ahead of the World Cup break picking up crucial points in four of those outings something Steve Cooper will be delighted about.

Forest are now just one point away from climbing out of the relegation zone after being cemented in the bottom three throughout the majority of the season so far and when they return to action against Manchester United after Christmas they will be hoping they can pick up where they left off.

Just four days after they head to Old Trafford for their first clash after the World Cup the transfer window will reopen, giving the powers at The City Ground the opportunity to add more quality to their team in their final push for survival in the second half of the season.

Marinakis sacked his head of recruitment and head scout after a review of the summer transfer window and will be hoping his newly-appointed personnel can deliver some much-needed talent that Cooper can deploy in the team.

One player who has been linked with a move to Trentside is Atalanta sensation Ruslan Malinovskyi, and the talented forward could be just what Nottingham Forest need to climb the table to retain their Premier League status.

The 29-year-old – who has a “stunning” left foot according to journalist Josh Bunting – has scored 74 goals and registered 68 assists over his career so far, with a goal contribution every 150 minutes proving that he has been a consistent and reliable goal threat.

Not only that, Malinovskyi ranks in the top 10% of his positional peers across the top five European leagues for progressive passes, shots on goal and shot-creating actions, as well as ranking in the top 20% for blocks, aerial duels, assists and dribbles completed.

Indeed, Forest will have competition to sign the £43m gem over the coming weeks as Tottenham Hotspur manager Antonio Conte is also keen to acquire the services of the player according to Fabrizio Romano.

With that being said, Cooper could get The City Ground rocking by securing a deal for Malinovskyi in January and the signing would further display the ambitious intent the club has shown to become an established Premier League side.

Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman struck gold in January 2021 when he brought in Scottish forward Ross Stewart from Ross County.

The striker has enjoyed a brilliant time with the Black Cats so far and is currently sat on 34 goals and eight assists in 72 competitive outings for the club, including five goals and three assists in seven Championship matches this term.

He is following in the footsteps of the likes of Kevin Phillips, Darren Bent, and Jermain Defoe in terms of strikers who have been successful on Wearside over the years.

There is another name who could have been on that list and that is Uruguayan predator Diego Forlan, who was wanted by Roy Keane during his tenure in charge between 2006 and 2008.

Speaking to The Athletic in 2021, the now-retired striker revealed that the Irish manager attempted to bring him to the Stadium of Light.

“I had to leave United for Villarreal. Something inside told me I needed to turn a page, start again. And I’m glad I did, that season turned everything around for me, but I could have gone back to England several times.

“Roy Keane called me when he was at Sunderland. ‘Diego’, he said. ‘I know you like a beach — we have one here at Sunderland’.”

The former Manchester United teammates did not end up linking up once again as the forward opted against arriving on Wearside. Instead, he signed for Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2007, with Keane seemingly unable to convince him to make the switch back to England.

Forlan scored 17 times in 97 matches for the Red Devils near the start of his career before finding his feet in Spain with Villarreal, where he plundered 58 goals in 125 outings.

His form for the Spanish side was enough to attract the interest of Sunderland and their failure to snap him up turned out to be a mistake on their part as he went on to enjoy a sublime spell in Madrid.

After making the move to the capital, Forlan scored 96 goals and provided 31 assists in 198 matches in all competitions. This included him netting 32 goals and assisting ten in 33 La Liga appearances in the 2008/09 campaign.

The prolific centre-forward also found the back of the net 36 times in 112 caps for Uruguay throughout his career, proving himself to be an elite striker on the international stage as well as in Spain. During the 2010 World Cup, Mark Lawrenson went as far as to say that he could “play in his slippers” in matches.

His impressive 224-goal career haul suggests that he could have been a fantastic signing for Sunderland, as he was superb in front of goal for Villarreal and Atletico, and that is why Keane made a blunder by failing to snap him up.

West Ham midfielder Declan Rice won’t sign an extension on his current deal with the Hammers, according to a fresh claim by journalist Paul Brown.

The Lowdown: Rice’s contract ticking away

The 23-year-old has matured from exciting academy graudate into arguably the first name on the Hammers’ team sheet these days, as well as becoming a dominant figure for England.

Rice’s current West Ham contract expires in the summer of 2024 however, and there is sure to be a lot of interest in him at the end of this season.

At that point, it could the last opportunity for the east London side to earn huge money for his services, unless he decides to extend his stay at the club.

The Latest: Journalist makes contract claim

Speaking to Give Me Sport, Brown claimed that Rice won’t sign a new deal with West Ham:

“I don’t think there is anyone pushing that hard at the moment to sign Declan Rice, but I think he’s trying to keep his options open and won’t be signing any contracts that tie him to the club and knock down a move in the near future.”

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The Verdict: Big blow, but unsurprising

This is clearly a negative update from a Hammers perspective, with Rice someone who will hopefully stay put for the rest of his career, having been hailed as ‘superb’ by another midfield great in the shape of Steven Gerrard.

In truth, there does seem to be a predictability about the midfielder’s exit in the near future, however, as he looks to kick on to the next stage of his career.

Rice belongs at a club playing Champions League football and challenging for major honours, and sadly, that is something that West Ham cannot provide currently. A summer exit in 2023 makes sense, with the Hammers hopefully banking a massive profit and reinvesting wisely.