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The Guinea midfielder is out of contract in the summer, and did his chances of a new deal no favours with a dreadful performance at Selhurst Park

Don't be fooled by the four-game unbeaten Premier League run; nothing about this Liverpool team is convincing.

The Reds, battered in the Champions League by Real Madrid in midweek, missed the chance to boost their chances of qualifying for next season's competition, delivering a performance high on endeavour but bereft of quality as they drew 0-0 with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

Jurgen Klopp's side hit the bar in the second half through Mohamed Salah, but barely fashioned a clear-cut opportunity throughout, and were fortunate that their hosts, without a win in nine games in 2023, wasted first-half chances of their own through Marc Guehi and Jean-Philippe Mateta.

The draw moves Liverpool up a place to seventh in the table, but represents a huge missed opportunity to put some serious pressure on the likes of Tottenham, who face Chelsea on Sunday, and Newcastle, who are without a league game this weekend as they contest the Carabao Cup final.

Klopp cut a dejected figure at the final whistle, and will doubtless reflect on yet another underwhelming display from his underperforming side, albeit one which saw them record a fourth straight clean sheet in the league.

GOAL breaks down the winners & losers from Selhurst Park…

GettyWINNER: Tottenham and Newcastle

This was a result that would have been celebrated by Antonio Conte and Eddie Howe, for sure.

Despite all their recent struggles, victory for Liverpool would have put them firmly in the mix for the top-four, moving them to within three points of Tottenham and two of Newcastle. With a winnable home game against Wolves to come on Wednesday, the game would have been very much on.

But you simply cannot rely on this Reds team. They had been unconvincing in winning at St James' Park last weekend, then eviscerated by Real Madrid on Wednesday, and here Klopp's team looked bereft of confidence once an initial 10-minute burst had amounted to nothing.

They won't be in this season's Champions League much longer, and playing like this, they can forget about playing in next year's competition as well.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesLOSER: Naby Keita

If these are the final weeks of Naby Keita's Liverpool career – and let's face it, they should be – then he hardly looks like a player determined to go out on a high.

The Guinea midfielder had a 45-minute nightmare here, his performance littered with errors and fouls, and devoid of any kind of quality.

Booked for a cynical pull on the lively Michael Olise midway through the first half, Keita tested the patience of referee Darren England thereafter, conceding three further free kicks as he continuously nibbled at the heels of Palace players.

It felt like a second yellow was inevitable, and it was no surprise to see Klopp react at half-time. On came Harvey Elliott, off went Keita. He should be off in the summer too. His five-year stay on Merseyside is coming to a pretty tame conclusion.

WINNER: Insomniacs

Those hoping for a Saturday night special under the Selhurst Park lights will have been hugely disappointed by what was served up here.

The worst game of the season? It just might have been. A game of plenty of huff, plenty of puff, but ultimately precious little skill, played out by two teams that look like they can't wait to draw a line under this season.

Palace haven't won since New Year's Eve, and lack any kind of goal threat without star man Wilfried Zaha, while Liverpool are a team that needs open-wallet surgery in the summer, if they are to have any chance of returning to the lofty heights seen in recent years.

Klopp named a starting XI with an average age of close to 30 here, and didn't it show? Liverpool were so short of speed, so lacking in ideas, that it almost felt like they settled for a draw in the closing stages. And what does that say about how far they've fallen?

Still, at least those hoping for an early night had the perfect sleeping pill. And if you're still struggling to drift off, just put this game on repeat.

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Getty ImagesLOSER: Jordan Henderson

What is it about that holding midfield role at Liverpool this season?

Having done for Fabinho – who could not even be trusted to start here, and might have been sent off when he did eventually appear – the No.6 position seemed to bring out the worst in Jordan Henderson too.

For one so experienced, some of the Reds captain's decision-making was truly baffling. Never more so than when he inexplicably stood in the line of a free-kick from Trent Alexander-Arnold in the first half, despite it being obvious to everyone in the stadium, and everyone watching on TV, that that was where the ball was heading.

Henderson had actually done okay in the first 45 minutes, but his second-half performance was dreadful, completely lacking in composure. He repeatedly hoiked the ball up in the air when calmness was required, and he got involved in altercations with Olise and Jordan Ayew as it became clear that yet another game was getting away from his side.

A skipper's performance, this most definitely was not.

ESPNcricinfo previews the teams in Division Two of the County Championship

George Dobell and David Hopps08-Apr-20160:48

What effect will one up from Division Two have?

DerbyshireElite performance director: Graeme Welch
Captain: Billy Godleman (Championship), Wes Durston (limited-overs)
Last season

In: Andy Carter (Nottinghamshire), Tom Milnes (Warwickshire), Neil Broom (UK passport)
Out: Mark Footitt (Surrey), Wayne White (Leicestershire), Jonathan Clare (released)
Overseas: Hamish Rutherford, James Neesham (T20)
2015 in a nutshell
The arrival of Graeme Welch as elite performance director encouraged much optimism last season, but Derbyshire rarely lived up to it. Mark Footitt was the outstanding bowler in Division Two of the Championship for the second successive season, but an inexperienced squad had little else to celebrate. Wayne Madsen and Billy Godleman, captains old and new, delivered with the bat, but Shiv Thakor disappointed.2016 prospects
How to replace Footitt, who has decamped to Surrey, is Derbyshire’s first challenge. Welch has raided his former club, Warwickshire, for Tom Milnes; Andy Carter – signed from Notts – has bags of ability but a poor fitness record; and Tom Taylor and Ben Cotton will look to continue their development. Hamish Rutherford can bring zip to the top order, and his fellow Kiwi Neil Broom has dusted off a dual passport at the age of 32. Youngsters such as Matt Critchley (see below) and Harvey Hosein, an excellent wicketkeeper who made a maiden first-class 50 last summer, should also progress. A Godleman captaincy – he has had his share of disciplinary problems – is intriguing.Key player
Derbyshire can probably assemble enough runs this season – particularly in the Championship – but replacing Footitt is a different matter. It would be a much easier task if Andy Carter stays fit. His wickets come well below 30, but he has managed only 29 first-class matches since his debut in 2009. A tall fast bowler, he is able to mix the short stuff and yorkers.Bright young thing
Matt Critchley was initially seen as a promising legspinner, but he made history when he became Derbyshire’s youngest first-class century maker with 137 against Northamptonshire last May. It was enough to bring him his first professional deal. Proof of developing legspin would also be enthusiastically received.ESPNcricinfo verdict
Derbyshire’s youngsters have the talent to kick on, but not enough to fill their impressive new media box or make a concerted challenge for honoursBet365 odds: Specsavers Championship, Div 2: 12/1; NatWest Blast 33/1; Royal London Cup 40/1EssexCoach: Chris Silverwood
Captain: Ryan ten Doeschate (Champ); Ravi Bopara (T20, 50)
Last season

In: Matthew Quinn (UK passport), Aaron Beard (academy), Ashar Zaidi (Sussex), Matt Dixon (UK passport)
Out: Reece Topley (Hampshire), Mark Pettini (Leicestershire), Monty Panesar, Greg Smith, Matt Salisbury, Saf Imtiaz (all released)
Overseas: Jesse Ryder, Adam Milne (T20), Wahab Riaz (T20)
2015 in a nutshell
The 2015 summer could prove to be a watershed in Essex cricket. Ronnie Irani’s appointment as cricket committee chairman brought with it impatience at Essex’s decade of near-misses in limited-overs cricket and contentment with using Division Two of the Championship as a breeding ground. Paul Grayson moved on as coach after two quarter-final defeats and his fellow Yorkshireman, Chris Silverwood, took over, bringing in a third Yorkie, Anthony McGrath as his assistant.2016 prospects
Essex must compete without Reece Topley whose impatience for Division One cricket, especially now he has graduated to England’s limited-overs sides, has seen him join Hampshire. They have responded by bringing in two fast bowlers with dual passports – Matthew Quinn, who has played for New Zealand A, and Western Australian Matt Dixon. Spin looks weak, with Ashar Zaidi, released by Sussex, carrying heavy responsibility. But Tom Westley and Nick Browne are two classy young batsmen, Dan Lawrence – the third-youngest century-maker in Championship history – is another exciting prospect and Ravi Bopara’s appointment as one-day captain will bring general delight.Key player
The suspicion that England have moved on from Ravi Bopara, at 30, will disappoint many who keep a fire burning for him through thick and thin. If Bopara can rise above that potential disappointment and bring his ebullience to bear for Essex, the final stage of his career can still be a long and successful one.Bright young thing
With Topley gone, and David Masters and Graham Napier coming to the end of long-serving careers, young Essex pace bowlers can make a name for themselves. Aaron Beard, 18, has yet to make his county debut and has had a couple of tough years with injuries, but anybody trusted to turn out for England as a sub fielder at 15 must have something going for them. He has a two-year contract and now needs the resolve and fortune to go with it.ESPNcricinfo verdict
Essex can make runs galore, and look bound to thrill again in one-day cricket, but to win their first trophy since 2008 they could need both their dual passport bowlers to fire.Bet365 odds: Specsavers Championship, Div 2 9/2; NatWest Blast 11/1; Royal London Cup 14/1Can Robert Croft inspired a Glamorgan resurgence?•Getty ImagesGlamorganCoach: Robert Croft
Captain: Jacques Rudolph
Last season
In: Craig Meschede (Somerset), Nick Selman, Timm van der Gugten (Dutch passport), Harry Podmore (Middlesex, loan)
Out: Ben Wright (retired)
Overseas: Jacques Rudolph, Shaun Tait (T20)2015 in a nutshell
Glamorgan’s surprise promotion challenge petered out in the Championship – ultimately nobody scored 1000 runs or took 50 wickets – but fourth place still felt like a county punching above its weight. There were few signs, too, that Glamorgan were about to turn Cardiff into a T20 venue to be reckoned with. The outcome was that Toby Radford left as head coach after two years to return to a role of specialist batting coach.2016 prospects
Chief executive Hugh Morris has reduced debts from £16m to less than £5m since returning to Glamorgan, where he was one of 10 homegrown players (plus Waqar Younis) who won the Championship in 1997. Welsh fervour is back in fashion with Robert Croft appointed head coach four years after he called time on a 23-year career. There is much work to do stirring the passions of south Wales and Croft will be grateful to inherit a promising crop of young players, batsmen especially. Craig Meschede is a good signing and Harry Podmore has six matches to make a Championship impact before his loan from Middlesex ends, but the task is a big one.Key player
Graham Wagg, at 32, can look back on a career with some ups and downs but 2015 was one of his best with 838 Championship runs – including a double century against Surrey – and 45 wickets, second to Michael Hogan. A repeat would make Croft’s job much easier as he tries to introduce a more settled approach.Bright young thing
Aneurin Donald was named after the great Welsh politician Aneurin Bevan, architect of the National Health Service, so he should have just the attributes to return Glamorgan to rude health. Donald’s career is still in its infancy – he was not even a regular pick in England’s U-19 World Cup side – but every sign of development for this young batsman will be lapped up.ESPNcricinfo verdict
Morris has stoutly suggested that promotion is a possibility, but with only one side going up it is hard to agree with him. Signs that Cardiff is embracing T20 would be a breakthrough.Bet365 odds: Specsavers Championship, Div 2: 10/1; NatWest Blast 20/1; Royal London Cup 25/1GloucestershireDirector of cricket: Richard Dawson
Captain: Gareth Roderick (Champ), Michael Klinger (T20, 50)
Last season
In: Chris Liddle (Sussex), Josh Shaw (Yorkshire, loan)
Out: James Fuller (Middlesex), Geraint Jones (retired), Cameron Herring, Robbie Montgomery (both released)
Overseas: Michael Klinger, Andrew Tye, Cameron Bancroft (April-May)2015 in a nutshell
Gloucestershire pepped up spirits during the first year of a new coaching team – Richard Dawson and Ian Harvey – to such an extent that they won the Royal London Cup final at Lord’s, reviving memories of the times, a decade and more earlier, when they dominated the limited-overs game. Michael Klinger was formidable with the bat and Geraint Jones wandered happily off into the sunset.2016 prospects
Gloucestershire’s squad lacks depth, especially in the bowling department, which suggests limited-overs cricket will again be their chief focus. Their Royal London triumph could be the catalyst for bigger T20 crowds at Bristol (they missed the quarter-finals by a point last season) and their intent is shown by the signing of a second overseas player, Andrew Tye, whose effectiveness for Perth Scorchers won him a place in Australia’s T20 squad. Cameron Bancroft, the WA keeper/batsman, deputises for Klinger in the Championship. Progress for Chris Dent and Roderick should help the runs tally, but James Fuller’s departure for Middlesex invites questions about their Championship attack. Bet365.com don’t fancy them for a 50-over repeat: they are out at 16/1.Key player
Wicketkeeper-captains always have it tough, but Gloucestershire have entrusted the role to Gareth Roderick in the Championship with Michael Klinger not back until late May. Roderick, born in South Africa, also bats top order, all of which means that Gloucestershire need him to shoulder a heavy burden if they are to maintain their progress.Bright young thing
George Hankins broke the record set by Kent’s Daniel Bell-Drummond for most runs in a season at Millfield School last season and continues their tradition of producing county cricketers by winning a two-year contract. Fresh back from the Darren Lehmann academy in Adelaide, he already had some sizeable 2nd XI scores to his name.ESPNcricinfo verdict
After winning the Royal London Cup, Gloucestershire will seek to spice up their T20 cricket which will make South Group stronger than ever.Bet365 odds: Specsavers Championship, Div 2: 10/1; NatWest Blast 20/1; Royal London Cup 16/1Tom Latham appears a solid signing for Kent’s top order•Getty ImagesKentHead coach: Jimmy Adams
Captain: Sam Northeast
Last season
In: Adam Rouse
Out: Brendan Nash (released), Ben Harmison (released)
Overseas: Tom Latham, Kagiso Rabada (July)2015 in a nutshell
Kent were a delight to watch in limited-overs cricket last season, but could not follow up the plaudits with trophies as they exited in the quarter-final stage in both competitions. In the likes of Sam Northeast, Sam Billings (one of only three England players signed up for an IPL deal) and Daniel Bell-Drummond they have an exciting crop of young players who are bringing fresh live to Canterbury under the wise observation of Rob Key.2016 prospects
Kent do not have the appearance of serious challengers in Division Two of the Championship, for all their batting depth, but they have been lifted by a six-week mid-season spell for the young South African quick Kagiso Rabada. Early season will be more challenging for Sam Northeast’s exciting young squad, especially with Sam Billings on IPL duty: Tom Latham has the batting attributes to help them through the tough days. In one-day cricket, though, they can surely push for a trophy. South African-born Sean Dickson can add to that batting lustre, and all it needs is one young pace bowler to take his opportunity for them to be a limited-overs side to be reckoned with. With many seeing England’s T20 future as wedded to international grounds, they need to make themselves heard.Key player
With question marks around their pace bowling stocks, Kent’s potential trump card lies in two offspinners at either ends of their career, James Tredwell and Adam Riley. Riley had a second-season dip in 2015 after he was prematurely touted as an England possible in his breakthrough year. Kent remain convinced Riley has all the attributes to become an international spinner and are delighted to have tied him to a new contract.Bright young thing
Kent have any number of bright young things when it comes to batsmen, but they are sorely in need of extra pace bowling resources. They will hope that Matt Hunn, a 6ft 5ins fast bowler, will make further strides this summer after winning a few headlines last season with five wickets against the Australian tourists but the solve the problem long term they might have to widen their developmental base.ESPNcricinfo verdict
Kent’s formidable T20 batting line-up gives them an excellent chance of reaching Finals Day, even without a heavy overseas spend, but it would take a summer of turning pitches for them to challenge for the Second Division title.Bet365 odds: Specsavers Championship, Div 2: 9/1; NatWest Blast 20/1; Royal London Cup 20/1LeicestershireDirector of cricket Andrew McDonald
Captain Mark Cosgrove (Champ); Mark Pettini (T20, 50)
Last season
In: Paul Horton (Lancashire), Neil Dexter (Middlesex), Wayne White (Derbyshire), Kevin O’Brien (limited-overs), Mark Pettini (Essex)
Out: Matthew Boyce (retired), Andrea Agathangelou, Dan Redfern, Alex Wyatt, Neil Pinner (all released)
Overseas: Clint McKay, Umar Akmal (T20), Rilee Rossouw (T20)
2015 in a nutshell
It tells you everything you need to know about Leicestershire’s form over recent seasons that 2015, when they finished bottom in the Championship, the Royal London group and won only four times in the NatWest Blast, was seen as a step in the right direction. Energised by the appointment of Wasim Khan as CEO and Andrew McDonald as coach, the club secured a first Championship win since 2012 and might have won a couple more but for inexperience. Their limited-overs form remained grim, however, and a small financial profit was overshadowed by an auditor’s report that expressed “significant doubt about the club’s ability to continue as a going concern.”2016 prospects
Boosted by the recruitment of several experienced players – all likely to feature in the first team immediately – it seems reasonable to anticipate further progress from Leicestershire. To move into mid-table in the Championship, more will be required from Ned Eckersley – who endured a modest 2015 – and the club will have to find a stronger opening partnership. Ben Raine and Angus Robson are likely to be the most important of the young players. Raine claimed 59 Championship wickets in 2015 and also contributed more than 500 runs. Off the pitch, Leicestershire have installed floodlights – crucial to their long-term survival – agreed a ground sponsorship deal and arranged to host women’s matches. They have also shaken up the coaching staff and agreed a loan from the local council. From a subterranean base, they are improving.Key player
Clint McKay will earn his money as overseas player. Impressive in 2015, he will again carry a heavy load as strike bowler and workhorse and will also be expected to fulfil the role of senior-pro in the dressing room. The fact that he was leading wicket-taker for Sydney Thunder as they won the BBL bodes well. He is vice-captain of the white ball side.Bright young thing
Aadil Ali, schooled across the road from the ground and a member of the treble-winning second XI side of 2014, made a good impression as a well-organised, patient batsman in 2015. It would provide a huge morale boost to the club if he can build on that promising start. It’s worth keeping an eye on Atif Sheikh, too. He’s left-arm, fast and has plenty of scope for improvement.ESPNcricinfo verdict
It was always going to take time to for Wasim Khan to turn things around at Grace Road and we are still in the early stages of the recovery. But, with some well-targeted recruits, Leicestershire’s results should improve.Bet365 odds: Specsavers Championship, Div 2: 25/1; NatWest Blast 25/1; Royal London Cup 50/1Monty Panesar will try to revive his career back at Northamptonshire•Getty ImagesNorthamptonshireDirector of cricket: David Ripley
Captain: Alex Wakely
Last season:
In: Richard Levi, Ben Sanderson, Monty Panesar.
Out: David Willey (Yorkshire), Stephen Peters (retired), Kyle Coetzer, Maurice Chambers (both released)
Overseas: Rory Kleinveldt, Seekkuge Prasanna (T20, possibly more).2015 in a nutshell
To reach T20 Finals Day for the second year in three – and to be the only side not from a Test ground among the four on each occasion – represented a fine achievement. They only lost three times in the Championship, too – only Surrey and Lancashire were beaten less often in Division Two – but a lack of bite with the ball meant they only won three games. Only Leicestershire won fewer. Financial problems led to the departure of several players, including the much-prized David Willey, although after some procrastination, Ben Duckett stayed.2016 prospects
At full strength, Northants still have a relatively strong, well-balanced side. They also have, in Saif Zaib, Duckett and Olly Stone, some talented, young and homegrown cricketers who can enjoy fine careers. The problem is their lack of depth. So desperate are the finances of the club that they have only 15 full-time professionals and the burden on the seam bowlers, in particular Stone, Azharullah and Rory Kleinveldt, is likely to be impossibly onerous. It is therefore understandable that the club have signed Monty Panesar, whatever his erratic behaviour and fitness issues, to shoulder some of the burden. Rob Newton and Duckett may also be pressed into service as opening batsmen. With so little depth, though, this could be a long, tough season on the pitch. Off the pitch, financial troubles threaten to drag the club under.Key player
It doesn’t take long to understand why Alex Wakely is captain. Calm, positive and good natured, he is just the sort of character required to coax this side through a long and no doubt testing season. He times the ball pleasingly, too. But Northants could do with him turning all those qualities into more tangible rewards in the form of runs. A total of four first-class centuries and average of 30 is modest for one so able.Bright young thing
Olly Stone is the sort of bowler every county in the land would want: young, quick and blessed with a good attitude, he is a former captain of the U-19s and once claimed the best figures by an England bowler (11 for 79) in an U-19 Test against South Africa. But he also has a history of back trouble – he withdrew from the EPP this winter because of it – and hardly needs the burden that seems inevitable in a 15-man squad. Saif Zaib, a 17-year-old left-arm spinning allrounder, is worth watching, too.ESPNcricinfo verdict
A decent cricket department – and some fine young players – deserve better than the management from which Northants currently suffers.Bet365 odds: Specsavers Championship, Div 2: 11/1; NatWest Blast 25/1; Royal London Cup 33/1.SussexHead coach: Mark Davis
Captain Luke Wright
Last season
In: Danny Briggs (Hampshire).
Out: Michael Yardy, Steffan Piolet (both retired), Chris Liddle (Gloucestershire), Ashar Zaidi (Essex), Callum Jackson (released), Matt Hobden (deceased), James Anyon (retired)
Overseas: Ross Taylor, Mustafizur Rahman (limited-overs)2015 in a nutshell
Hugely disappointing. Despite investing heavily in their cricket budget (the club made a loss of £141,000), Sussex’s winless 50-over campaign was followed by relegation in the Championship. The club paid for a glut of injuries to their seamers, the absence of a quality spinner and a loss of confidence from their batsmen caused, in part, by some poor surfaces in Hove. Their long-serving head coach, Mark Robinson, subsequently left to work with England’s women, Ed Joyce stepped down from the captaincy and Michael Yardy retired. Tragedy then followed with highly-rated seamer Matt Hobden dying in an accident over the New Year.2016 prospects
Anything less than promotion will probably be deemed failure at a club with a rich history over the last decade-and-a-half and a budget far bigger than some of its rivals. It is not an unrealistic prospect. The addition of Briggs should correct the spin deficit of last year, while if Ajmal Shahzad can stay fit and Chris Jordan is available, they have, alongside Steve Magoffin, a potent attack. The additions of Mustafizur Rahman and Ross Taylor – both of whom were named in the World ODI team of the year – should improve their white-ball form, while a middle-order of Joyce, Taylor and Wright could prove daunting for Division Two attacks.Key player
As captain of a squad struggling for equilibrium after change, relegation and bereavement, Luke Wright faces a demanding season. If he can get through without losing his form, fitness or easy-going manner, Sussex should be able to bounce back. His decision not to enter the IPL auction demonstrates his commitment to the role.Bright young thing
George Garton, an 18-year-old left-arm fast bowler, caught the eye with his pace during the U19 World Cup and looks to be a player of great potential. Phil Salt, an aggressive opening batsman, is worth keeping an eye upon, as is Ollie Robinson. Matt Hobden would have been the obvious man for this category, though, and it is hard to overstate the enormity of his loss.ESPNcricinfo verdict
So much change in such a short space of time means it is hard to predict how Sussex will fare, but they do have the quality and the depth to improve in white ball cricket and win promotion in the Championship.Bet365 odds: Specsavers Championship, Div 2: 7/4F; NatWest Blast 14/1; Royal London Cup 16/1Yo-Yo: Worcestershire have bounced back to Division One before•Getty ImagesWorcestershireHead coach: Steve Rhodes
Captain: Daryl Mitchell
Last season
In:
Out: Gareth Andrew, Shaaiq Choudhry (both released), Alex Gidman (retired), Richard Oliver (declined new contract)
Overseas: Matt Henry (Apr-June), Kyle Abbott (Jul-Sep), Mitchell Santner (T20)2015 in a nutshell
Encouraging. While no season that includes relegation can be considered a resounding success, Worcestershire’s Division One campaign was admirable in many ways. By some distance the smallest club (in financial terms) in the top division, they challenged throughout and eventually only fell short of survival by 13 points. Equally encouraging was the emergence of a group of young players – nearly all homegrown and secured on long-term contracts – that promised better times ahead. The seam attack, relentless for much of the season, eventually tired due to over-bowling and the lack of support given by their ineffective overseas spinners. A good T20 campaign was overshadowed by a somewhat farcical quarter-final where the club paid the price – or arguable failed to pay the price – for not hiring floodlights and saw what could have been a showcase event end amid gloom and regret.2016 prospects
Winning promotion this year -with just one team going up – is likely to prove tough. There is real talent in the squad, but a lack of depth and experience – the captain is the only 30-year-old on the staff following the injury-induced departures of Gidman and Andrew – could inhibit a sustained challenge. The choice of overseas players should help the over-worked seam attack, but a lack of spin options is a potential weakness in all formats. Such is the ability of the young batsmen – and the positive effects of a dressing room united by shared values and culture – that a promotion push can’t be ruled out, and cricket supporters far beyond Worcestershire will be hoping for the speedy return of Tom Fell. A great deal is asked of Brett D’Oliveira as opening batsman and spinner.Key player
A natural leader in a young side, only five men claimed more wickets than thickset and bustling Joe Leach (who took 59) in the Championship last year and he also added almost 500 runs with the bat. As a key allrounder, vice-captain and calm head on young, broad shoulders, he will relish the fact that much is required of him.Bright young thing
The 19-year-old Joe Clarke is an unusually talented player with a very bright future. Fast-tracked into the Lions squad over the winter – he was the first teenage batsman to win selection for the A team since Ian Bell – he has so far impressed as an aggressive batsman. But he has aspirations as a wicketkeeper and knows that taking the gloves increases his chances of a future with England. At some stage, Worcestershire may face a tricky decision, with the greatly improved Ben Cox currently much the better keeper and a more than decent batsman.ESPNcricinfo verdict
There is well-justified excitement at New Road at the emergence of an exciting group of young players. Supporters may have to be patient for another season or two, though, as those players develop and the club struggles to compete with rivals with far deeper pockets. On and off the pitch, though, the future looks brighter than it has for some time.Bet365 odds: Specsavers Championship, Div 2: 9/2; NatWest Blast 25/1; Royal London Cup 33/1

A round-up of the Sunfoil Series matches played from March 18-21, 2016

ESPNcricinfo staff21-Mar-2016Tabraiz Shamsi’s match haul of 12 for 173 and centuries from Dean Elgar (130) and Qaasim Adams (167) in the first innings lifted Titans to an eight-wicket win over Warriors, a result that helped stretch their lead at the top of the table.Titans were set 140 to chase in the final innings, a target they overhauled inside 30 overs thanks to tournament top-scorer Heino Kuhn’s 67, after rain washed out the first session of the final day.After choosing to bat, Warriors found themselves in trouble at 78 for 4 before Somila Seyibokwe (101) and Kelly Smuts (67) combined to add 157 for the fifth wicket to take their side past 200. Shamsi, however, hit back by taking the last seven wickets of the innings to restrict Warriors to 282, finishing with figures of 7 for 93.Titans’ strong response of 399 was built on Elgar and Adams’ 176-run fifth-wicket stand, after being reduced to 95 for 4. After Elgar fell for 130, Adams carried on to make his career-best score of 167, stringing together vital lower-order partnerships that took Titans close to 400. No other batsman managed a score more than 23.Shamsi came to the fore in the second innings as well by cutting through Warriors’ top order. Colin Ackermann’s 72 was the only score of note as Shamsi and Marchant de Lange (3 for 69) left Warriors reeling at 181 for 7. Gihahn Cloete and Sisanda Magala then combined to add a crucial 65-run stand for the eighth wicket, helping Warriors reach 256.A fine all-round performance by Werner Coetsee in the first innings and a patient half-century from Pite van Biljon in the second set up Knights’ three-wicket win against Cape Cobras in Bloemfontein.In the first innings, the bowlers cut through the Cobras top order, reducing them to 146 for 6. Dane Vilas, then made a counter-attacking 157 to help his side overcome the early wobble and cross 300. He found good support from Dane Piedt (44) as the pair added 132 for the seventh wicket. Coetsee was the pick of Knights’ bowlers, producing returns of 4 for 62.In response, Knights also suffered a top-order collapse that saw them reeling at 104 for 6. Coetsee then took charge of his side’s innings with a steady 149 that helped Knights secure a 35-run lead. He was helped by lower-order contributions from Corne Dry and Malusi Siboto who made 40 and 44 respectively. Shadley van Schalkwyk also chipped in with 35 at No.8. Piedt picked up figures of 5 for 106.Inspite of captain Omphile Ramela’s 109 and fifties from Andrew Puttick (64) and Justin Ontong (57), Knights dealt the Cobras regular blows to keep them to 291. Puttick and Ramela shared a 165-run stand for the second wicket after opener Simon Khomari fell for a duck in the first over. Duanne Olivier and van Schalkwyk then went about mopping up the lower order to help set their side a target of 257.In their chase, Knights were wobbly at 113 for 4 before van Biljon helped the Knights home with three wickets in hand, on the final day.A final day washout meant that Lions had to settle for a draw against Dolphins at the City Oval in Pietermaritzburg.After opting to bat, Lions had piled up an imposing 516 for 5 before declaring, on the back of centuries from Dominic Hendricks (167) and Rassie van der Dussen(130) . Opener Stephen Cook (70) and Temba Bavuma (94) played the support roles with half-centuries, before Lions declared on the second day.Lions’ bowlers built on their batsmen’s strong performance by reducing Dolphins to 126 for 5. Imraan Khan (64), Daryn Smit (88) and 44 from Keshav Maharaj helped Dolphins reach 259 for 9 at the end of the third day.

Dan Christian is the allrounder chosen by Notts Outlaws to try to fill the void left by Darren Sammy’s departure to the Caribbean Premier League

ESPNcricinfo staff18-Jun-2015Notts Outlaws have signed Australian all-rounder Dan Christian for the remainder of the NatWest T20 Blast campaign.Christian fills the void left by Darren Sammy who has departed for the Caribbean Premier League following a four-game stint with the Outlaws.Christian had only limited success during an unproductive Middlesex campaign last season, but Nottinghamshire’s director of cricket Mick Newell he can be a successful substitute for Sammy.”I keep saying that, particularly with international call-ups and injuries around, we need to be as strong as we can be,” he said. “So with an overseas vacancy available to us following Darren’s departure to the CPL, and knowing of Dan’s availability as we have for some time, it was an easy decision to bring him in.”He’s someone that tends to score his runs quickly and he also provides a very good option with the ball, which you need plenty of in T20 cricket.”Christian, who has 34 caps in white ball cricket for Australia, has amassed 146 career Twenty20 appearances including stints in the Indian Premier League with Deccan Chargers and Royal Challengers Bangalore. On English shores, he was a Friends Life T20 winner with Hampshire in 2010.He averages 20.11 with the bat, at a strike-rate of 128.53 that includes a century – 129 off 57 balls for Middlesex against Kent last season – and two fifties. His average with the bat is 27.72 with the ball at an economy rate of 8.16 runs per over.”Dan is a very aggressive and entertaining batsman to add to our line-up and also one that has lots of know-how in how to read the game and pace an innings,” added Newell.”He also has lots of experience, particularly in Twenty20, and I know he’s very keen to pass that onto our young players which is important. Darren Sammy certainly did that and I’m sure Dan Christian will do likewise.”

According to Italian publications, Juventus youngster Matias Soule is being pursued by Eddie Howe's Newcastle United.

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Newcastle interested in Matias Soule Juventus may be forced to sell Crystal Palace also interested Getty ImagesWHAT HAPPENED?

The young sensation, who is on loan at Frosinone from Juventus, has made an incredible start to the 2023–24 season. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Premier League teams are interested in the Argentine, therefore Juve director Cristiano Giuntoli visited England this week to make plans for the January transfer window. According to the report, Soule is the object of desire for both Crystal Palace and Newcastle, who are prepared to offer up to €25 million plus bonuses and the Old Lady could find it difficult to turn down such an offer.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE

According to the source, the Bianconeri are now experiencing financial hardship as a result of not playing in the Champions League and the Italian giants may have to sell one of their youngsters to balance their finances, which would need some sacrifices. According to the source, Soule may be persuaded to accept a proposition from a wealthy financial club that would more than double his present salary.

DID YOU KNOW?

The 20-year-old talent has had a spectacular start to the 2023-24 campaign, scoring six goals and providing one assist in 12 games with Frosinone this season.

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WHAT NEXT FOR SOULE?

Soule and Frosinone will next be in action when they take on Juventus' neighbours, Torino on December 10 as they look to break into the top 10 of the Serie A table.

Chris Gayle’s remarkable century on his home debut for Somerset was all in vain as Kent won by three runs in an extraordinary NatWest T20 Blast match at the County Ground.

ECB/PA31-May-2015
ScorecardAs seen in the IPL: Chris Gayle followed his 92 against Essex with something even more spectacular at Taunton, but in a losing cause•BCCIChris Gayle’s remarkable century on his home debut for Somerset was all in vain as Kent won by three runs in an extraordinary NatWest T20 Blast match at the County Ground.He struck 10 fours and 15 sixes in an unbeaten 151 off 62 balls. However, despite an innings that should have been good enough to win any game, Gayle finished on the losing side.The last over started with 17 needed, but Gayle did not have the strike; it took two balls to get it back as Sohail Tanvir was dismissed then Jamie Overton scampered a single. That left 17 off four – not impossible by Gayle standards – and it came down to 10 off two when Mitchell Claydon, who amid the carnage produced an outstanding four overs, found a priceless dot ball which meant the final-ball six, Gayle’s 15th, did not change the outcome.For the first half of the game it looked likely to be another name would be taking the headlines as Sam Northeast made a career-best 114 off 58 balls.Matthew Maynard, the Somerset coach, said: “I thought Sam Northeast played a sensational innings, but then the World boss came in and it’s different gravy. However, good Sam’s innings was it just pales a little bit. But that’s what Chris can do.”We saw him in Essex the other day and today was an even more incredible performance. Words can’t explain exactly what we have seen today. He makes it looks so easy and strikes the ball so cleanly. His knock almost brought off an incredible win today, but it just wasn’t to be.”Batting first, Kent lost Joe Denly in the second over, run out by Max Waller with the score on 10 for 1. After that, Northeast and Daniel Bell-Drummond put on a wonderful exhibition of batting.Bell-Drummond, who was dropped on 37, by Overton off Max Waller, reached his 50 in the 10th over but was snapped up by Lewis Gregory, off Waller, off the very next ball.Northeast continued to make hay as Somerset bowled too short and wide. He struck 14 fours and two sixes before passing three figures in the 18th over. Having led the home attack a merry-dance for the best part of 17 overs, he was one of four batsmen out in the final over as Kent finished on 227 for 7.Enter Gayle, who made 92 on his first appearance against Essex, and a few other batsmen who largely stood at the other end. The West Indian opener saw Marcus Trescothick hole out to cover off Matt Coles the first ball of the fourth over before watching Peter Trego play on, two balls later. At 22 for 2, Somerset appeared to be staring down the barrel of an inevitable defeat.Gayle, however, had slightly different ideas and when the Jamaican struck three giant sixes in eight balls, the host county were on their way.James Hildreth, whose form in four-day cricket has been exemplary so far this summer, refused to remain in the shadow of Gayle and played his part in a partnership of 113 in nine overs. However, the locals had come to the County Ground to see Gayle and they left with plenty over which to enthuse.The left hander struck five fours and four sixes in reaching 50 off 29 balls and continued to make light of a Kent attack that simply had no answer. He put three balls into the River Tone and as many into the St James’ churchyard.Hildreth departed in the 13th over, for 29, with Somerset still needing 93 to win and Jim Allenby followed off the second ball of the 16th over with 63 still required. However, Gayle went through three figures off just 45 balls and kept Somerset in with a chance until the penultimate ball. It was the sixth highest individual score in the history of Twenty20 cricket.Northeast, while delighted with victory, was left in awe. “I don’t know where to start. It was an incredible game and Chris’ innings was one of the best things I have ever seen. But special credit has to go to our bowlers who stuck to their plan and kept believing.”We were trying to get the other batters on strike, but you miss your length against him and it goes out of the park. When the opposition needs 15 an over, you kind of think it’s game over. But when Chris is out there and it went up to 20 needed off each over, you still know that he can do it. He is an incredible player.”

The Red Devils may be back in the hunt for Champions League qualification, but they still look like a team of individuals

"I think we can beat any opponent, away or at home," Erik ten Hag told reporters after Manchester United's crucial 2-1 victory at Aston Villa. "Sometimes away we have to believe it more, we deserved to win at Arsenal and could have won at Liverpool. It's about belief."

Sunday's three points could go a long way to ensuring United salvage a top-four finish, which seemed unthinkable just a few weeks ago. Ten Hag's side are now within five points of Villa, who are still sitting fifth, and six behind fourth-placed Tottenham, having won their last three games.

United have won four on the bounce in all competitions, their best run of the season so far, and it could continue with favourable fixtures against Luton Town and Fulham up next. On the surface, it appears the tide has turned.

But dig a little bit deeper, and it's obvious Ten Hag's side are still a mess. Villa will certainly be wondering how on earth they ended up empty-handed after a second-half barrage that saw Andre Onana finally justify his £48 million ($61m) transfer fee in the United goal.

Ten Hag may have saved his job by overseeing a mini-resurgence, but that does not mean United are back – or indeed anywhere near becoming a top side again.

Getty'Bit of an odd bunch'

"They’re better than they were, but they’re still not great," United legend Gary Neville told after the Villa game. "You still don’t see any patterns or combinations. They concede so many chances. They don’t control games. They don’t keep possession better than other teams. But they do have players who can win matches. They’re a bit of an odd bunch. They just play in moments during matches."

Rasmus Hojlund has transformed into United's main match-winner since opening his Premier League scoring account in the 3-2 win over Villa on Boxing Day, and the 21-year-old made it five goals in as many league appearances at the weekend – becoming the second-youngest player to achieve the feat in the Premier League after Nicolas Anelka.

The Red Devils also had super-sub Scott McTominay to thank for their latest win, as the Scotland midfielder stepped off the bench to head home his seventh Premier League goal of the season. But the fact McTominay is the club's top scorer in the competition despite only starting 12 games speaks volumes.

Neville is absolutely right, United are still relying on individual moments, with no clear identity to their play on or off the ball. They were overrun in midfield against Villa, which has become a theme against the top sides under Ten Hag, and it was far too easy for Unai Emery's men to get in behind the visitors' defence.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesDamning away record

The reaction to Ten Hag's "we can beat anyone" claim on social media was predictably strong. One account replied "Manchester United won’t go far with this manager if he actually believes this", while another pointed out that Arsenal had a 2.53 expected goals total compared to United's 0.98 when the hosts triumphed 3-1 at Emirates Stadium back in September.

In the 0-0 draw against Liverpool at Anfield in December, United saw 34 shots reign down on their net, and only managed six themselves, while giving up 69 percent of the possession. Yes, the Red Devils had the better clear-cut chances, but Ten Hag once again set up not to lose rather than trying to go toe-to-toe.

Incredibly, Sunday's victory over Villa was actually the first game United have won on the road against a top-nine side since Ten Hag's appointment – at the 20th time of asking. It doesn't get more damning than that.

Getty Images'Problems are still there'

On another day, United could easily have trudged off the pitch at Villa Park bemoaning another dismal away defeat. Roy Keane certainly wasn't impressed, as he admitted to that his old club "got away with it" before insisting "the problems are still there for them".

One of those is Casemiro, who struggled to keep up with Villa's relentless energy in the middle of the park. The Brazilian has been a key player for United since returning from injury, but his 31-year-old legs are starting to let him down.

Neville recently called the board "crazy" for handing Casemiro a four-year contract after his £70m ($88m) move to Old Trafford from Real Madrid in 2022, and it's hard to disagree. It's a similar story for his former Madrid team-mate Raphael Varane, with the World Cup winner now lacking the speed and intensity that made him one of the best defenders in the world in his prime.

One man who does at least still have age on his side is Marcus Rashford, but the 26-year-old has looked equally ineffective this term, and was hooked after 73 minutes at Villa after consistently giving the ball away in the final third. Rashford may have been United's talisman in Ten Hag's debut season, but he's clearly in decline now, and serious questions will be asked over his future in the summer – especially if Paris Saint-Germain do indeed reignite their interest in the England international.

On the right-flank, meanwhile, Alejandro Garnacho's failure to track back left Diogo Dalot exposed time and time again at Villa Park. The talented teenager has arguably been United's standout player in 2023-24, but if he doesn't learn to be more disciplined defensively, opposing teams will continue to get a lot of joy on that side of the pitch.

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Getty ImagesHas the story changed?

In the first half of the season, as United wrestled with an unprecedented injury crisis, Ten Hag repeatedly claimed he would "change the story" as soon as he was able to call upon a full-strength side again. The Dutchman has so far been proven right, with their recent upturn in form coinciding with the return of players like Casemiro, Varane, Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo.

Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw have also played their part, though the former has suffered a fresh injury setback that could keep him sidelined until April, and the latter came off at half-time against Villa due to a fitness scare. United definitely rode their luck in the second half without Shaw, which does not bode well if he faces another spell out.

Even though results have improved due to increased strength in depth, United scraped past Villa and Wolves in unimpressive fashion, the 3-0 scoreline against West Ham at Old Trafford flattered them, and they were outplayed by Tottenham in a 2-2 draw on home turf.

The fact Ten Hag is finally enjoying some continuity with his starting XI doesn't hide the fact United are still lacking quality across the pitch.

Eye-watering salaries are expected by any player at a top club these days, meaning wage bills across the continent continue to soar

UEFA has revealed the 20 clubs with the highest wage bills across the 2018 financial year in its annual Club Licensing Benchmarking Report, with Barcelona and Real Madrid once again splashing the most cash. 

A record 35 clubs in Europe boasted wage bills of over €100 million across 2018, while the Catalans have become the first side to boast a wage total in excess of €500m. 

Though La Liga's two biggest clubs have spent the most individually, Premier League sides make up nine of the 20 clubs with the highest wage bills.

Getty20Crystal Palace | €132m (£113m/$147m)AdvertisementGetty19Monaco | €133m (£114m/$148m)Getty Images18Leicester City | €134m (£115m/$149m)ENJOYED THIS STORY?

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Getty Images17AC Milan | €150m (£129m/$167m)

Cheteshwar Pujara says he expects to be a “different player” when he returns from his stint with defending English county champions Yorkshire

Gaurav Kalra06-Apr-20159:22

‘Will return a different player’ – Pujara

Cheteshwar Pujara says he expects to be a “different player” when he returns from his stint with defending English county champions Yorkshire. Speaking exclusively to ESPNcricinfo, Pujara said he recognises the next few months will be a test of his “character, technique and toughness”.”They are challenging conditions and as a batsman you have to accept the challenge,” he said. “When you score runs in those conditions you get a different confidence. So, technically you have to be correct. You have to be really focused; confidence has to be up to the mark. All the aspects of the game you really have to be very careful when you play in English conditions. So, in this way couple of months in Yorkshire will help me.”The weather is completely different. So, first of all you need to get adjusted to the weather and the conditions. Whatever I’ve heard so far is that initially the ball might do more than what it does in the later stages of the season. So, as a batsman it will be challenging and I’m aware about it but when I’m going there I know that I will be tested – it is a test of my character, technique and my toughness. I’ll take it as a challenge. Once you succeed in such conditions, it is a different satisfaction as a cricketer.”Pujara signed a deal with Yorkshire after failing to attract a bid at the IPL auction in February. He was released by Kings XI Punjab after an underwhelming season last year that saw him score 125 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 100.8 before being dropped from the playing eleven. Pujara admitted that he while he was a “little bit disappointed” at being ignored by the franchises, his focus was on things he could control.”As a cricketer I always try and improve my game and try and focus on things which I can do,” he said. “I definitely want to play all the formats of this game I’m working on improving my game in ODIs and T20s. I am very confident that I will be able to do so. It’s a matter of time and there are some shots that I’m working on in the nets and with more and more practice I think I will be successful.”Not only has Pujara struggled to carve a niche in T20 cricket, his stock has fallen in one-day cricket as well. He was left out of India’s 30-man list of probables for the World Cup and hasn’t made much of an impression in the five ODIs he has played. With an impressive record in List A cricket, where he has scored 3403 runs at an average of 54.01 in 77 games with 10 centuries, the 27-year-old is confident of changing the mindset that has bracketed him as a long-format specialist.”If you look at the domestic circuit (List A) records, I’ve got a very good average as well as a decent strike rate and I’ve been successful even at India A level,” he said. “It’s just that I haven’t played too many ODIs. So, I can’t talk much about international level but if I can do it at the domestic and India A level – when I went to the UK and Australia there were decent fast bowlers against whom I could score runs – I’m very confident that i can do it at the international level. It’s a matter of time and I’m very hopeful that my chance will come.”While his one-day ambitions may take longer to realise, Pujara’s immediate concern will be to revive his Test career. Having established himself as India’s number three, Pujara lost his place in the playing eleven for the final Test of the series against Australia in Sydney after a string of below-par performances. Over eight Test matches in England and Australia, Pujara scored 423 runs at an average of 26.43, going past the half-century mark just twice. While refusing to comment on being dropped, Pujara says he will “prove himself again” when the chance comes.”In Test matches, my start was really good; there were some phases where i accept that I didn’t perform well but it happens,” he said. “If you see a cricketer’s career, nobody’s always successful. You have those up and down phases. If I look at all the series, I did well in South Africa. England was a bad series although I did score in a couple of innings which were really crucial for the team.”I feel number three is the kind of position where you don’t just look at the number of runs you make but you also need to look at the team situation to make sure that the team does not lose another wicket. Once you see through the new ball, the middle-order batsmen get that benefit of playing against the old ball. There is a role which is defined. I do accept that I got starts in Australia but could not convert those starts into a big innings which I’m known for.”Pujara’s indifferent run in recent times has meant a wide chasm has developed between his home and away records. While he averages 75.23 in 13 Tests at home, it plummets to 29.4 in 14 away Tests. Pujara insisted that scoring runs for the country was important, not the conditions they were made in.”When you’re representing your nation you need to perform , doesn’t matter whether it’s in India or overseas,” he says. “I had a decent series in South Africa so it is not that I can’t score overseas. A couple of series were not up to the mark and I have been working on my game. When I play for India, i need to make sure that the team wins and I contribute to the team’s success.”With the retirement of MS Dhoni, India will be begin a new phase as Test team when they play in whites next. Having been a key member of the squad for the last couple of years, he believes the strong bonds built between the players will work in their favour.”Most of the players have played together for the A team and the Test team is almost the same since the last couple of years,” he said. “I just want to focus on the things that I can do for the team at number three and I have always enjoyed playing for the Indian team. I hope we get more success both at home and overseas. We did put up a good show in Australia though we didn’t win too many games. Going ahead we would aim to win as many matches as possible.”Pujara is waiting for his visa formalities to be completed in time for him to join Yorkshire for their season opener against Worcestershire starting on April 12 at New Road.

Queensland made a dream start in their campaign for a hat-trick of one-day titles, crushing Victoria by nine wickets in the season opener at the Gabba

ESPNcricinfo staff04-Oct-2014
Scorecard
Ben Cutting collected 3 for 13•Getty ImagesQueensland made a dream start in their campaign for a hat-trick of one-day titles, crushing Victoria by nine wickets in the season opener at the Gabba. The Bushrangers were sent in by Queensland captain James Hopes and rapidly capitulated to the pace of Mark Steketee, Ben Cutting and Luke Feldman, who skittled them for 111 in only 38 overs.Steketee, who made his one-day debut for the National Performance Squad during the winter, was playing his first game for Queensland and proved a handful, collecting 4 for 29 from eight overs. His wickets included those of Victoria’s captain Matthew Wade, caught behind for 13, and former skipper Cameron White, bowled for 6.Cutting picked up 3 for 13 and Feldman took 2 for 25 as Victoria’s batting line-up crumbled, with Peter Handscomb (20) the only man to get past the teens. Queensland’s chase could hardly have gone better as Usman Khawaja and Chris Hartley put on 93 for the first wicket and threatened to overtake Victoria without loss.However, on 38 Khawaja was stumped off the spin of Jon Holland, which brought Joe Burns to the crease. Burns (11 not out) and Hartley (46 not out) cruised past Victoria’s total in the 22nd over, ensuring that the first result of the newly-named Matador BBQs One-Day Cup was a thorough roasting of the visitors.