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The January transfer window gives Graham Potter the chance to mould the Blues squad in his image, but who will be deemed surplus to requirements?

January is a time for resolutions, making changes and starting afresh, and Chelsea seem set to adopt that notion of renewal as they ring in the new year.

The month could bring the first stage of a squad overall at Chelsea in 2023, as the fat is trimmed from a bloated squad and new owner Todd Boehly continues to splurge his riches with a flagrant disregard for what outsiders may think.

In the weeks leading up to the window, manager Graham Potter had the unique opportunity to work closely with those members of his squad who were not involved in the World Cup for an extended period, away from the glare of the public eye and media scrutiny.

He should now have a good idea of who and what he needs to add to his squad, and who has become surplus to requirements.

Here are GOAL's six players who could well depart Stamford Bridge in January…

Getty ImagesHakim Ziyech

Although his influence waned as the tournament progressed, Ziyech placed himself front and centre of the shop window as he made history with Morocco in Qatar.

The wide man has long been linked with AC Milan having flattered to deceive since swapping Ajax for west London in 2020, and his languid style would suit the slower pace of Serie A.

However, Ziyech's performances at the World Cup will also have served as a reminder to Graham Potter of exactly what he is capable of, and an impactful cameo against Nottingham Forest on New Year's Day could mean he is set for a run in the team.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesChristian Pulisic

Pulisic was used sparingly by his manager before the World Cup, but his strong showings in Qatar with the United States have immediately made him a more prominent figure in Graham Potter's thinking.

Nevertheless, if this run in the team comes to an abrupt end like so many others before it, ambitious Pulisic has intimated that he is prepared to seek a move away in order to secure regular game time.

Speaking in December, the American said: "Right now I'm absolutely back at Chelsea. Focused and ready to finish the season. But you know how things work in football. Things change quickly and anything can happen."

Getty ImagesEdouard Mendy

Mendy's name being among those on this list would have been inconceivable a matter of months ago.

The goalkeeper was out of form and injured when Potter was installed at the helm, and he has paid the price. Potter turned to Kepa Arrizabalaga in his absence and has stood by the Spaniard in the weeks since when picking his strongest XI, with Mendy restricted to a back-up role.

The Champions League and AFCON winner is unlikely to settle for playing second fiddle, and Milan has been rumoured as a possible destination on a short-term deal as they seek cover for injured Mike Maignan.

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Getty ImagesCarney Chukwuemeka

Carney Chukwuemeka's unexpected summer transfer to Chelsea was greeted with much fanfare as the Blues gazumped a number of top European clubs to sign the exciting talent from Aston Villa.

Things haven't worked out yet, though, with the star of England's glorious Under-19 European Championship campaign rarely afforded an opportunity under either Thomas Tuchel or Potter.

The 19-year-old is on the fringes of the first team but well down the pecking order, so a loan is surely being considered behind closed doors – especially at such a crucial stage in his development. There would no doubt be a queue of Premier League suitors.

Harry Kane’s struggles at Bayern Munich may be generating “hilarity for miserable souls”, but he is being backed to break a trophy duck in Germany.

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England captain moved to Germany in 2023In danger of missing out on major silverwareExpected to honour more than 12 months of dealWHAT HAPPENED?

That may not happen this season, with the England captain enduring a testing debut campaign at the Allianz Arena. He has delivered on a personal front, registering 29 goals through 30 appearances, but is in serious danger of seeing elusive major silverware fall out of reach once more.

AdvertisementWHAT JORDAN SAID ABOUT KANE

Bayern have slipped off the Bundesliga title pace, and are trailing a Champions League last-16 encounter with Lazio, but Kane is being tipped to spend more than 12 months in Munich. Former Crystal Palace chairman Simon Jordan has told the : “Anyone who looks at Bayern Munich’s woes as some form of retribution for Harry Kane upping sticks to Germany, where titles are apparently a given for his new club, is particularly mean-spirited. It is ironic given the upheaval, upset and lack of achievement at Tottenham that, after winning the title for 11 years in a row, it looks like Bayern are going to miss out this season. Cue much hilarity for miserable souls who seem to take delight in Kane’s failure to win a trophy. But, really, it is unfair to suggest Kane is complicit in Bayern falling short. He has done his job, scoring 25 goals in 22 games, so placing any criticism at his door is ridiculous. I’ve never been of the view that his lack of trophies reflects poorly on him. The guy scores 25-plus goals a season come rain or shine. That is the definition of a world-class striker and there are so few about. That’s why they command so much money and why they are so difficult to buy. Although Kane could be the perfect signing for any elite Premier League club looking for that elusive world-class striker, I don’t see him coming back to England this summer. If I were him I would want to stay until I had won something, otherwise what was the point in going?”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Jordan went on to say, with Kane committing to a contract through to 2027: “In fact, a barren year would be even more reason to stay. The fact that the allegedly wonderful, revolutionary and innovative manager Thomas Tuchel will not be there is unlikely to affect his thinking either. Would his appetite to win trophies have been sated by winning something with an all-conquering Bayern this season? No. So why would he leave after one year when they haven’t won anything? At the time of his transfer I questioned whether a Bundesliga title would be meaningful to the England captain, but he made his choice and I don’t see him cutting and running just because Bayern are having a poor season. He went to Germany to win things and it is more likely than not that they will win something next year. They are certainly a better bet than any Premier League side who might want to sign him — apart from Manchester City. In the unlikely event that Bayern were happy to cash in, Kane would obviously interest England’s top clubs. Chelsea and Arsenal may have most need for his services and are perhaps able to meet his expectations. But a move to either of Tottenham’s arch-rivals is a flight of fancy and would be the ultimate legacy killer for a player who appears to pride himself on loyalty and integrity.”

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WHAT NEXT FOR KANE?

There has been talk of Manchester United being ready to rekindle their interest in Kane, but the Red Devils cannot offer guarantees of trophy triumphs and Kane – who will lead his country into a quest for Euro 2024 glory this summer – is expected to stay put after stepping out of a professional comfort zone and moving his young family to Germany.

USWNT star and 2023 NWSL Cup finalist Rose Lavelle sent a good luck video on social media to FC Cincinnati ahead of their MLS Playoff match.

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FCC set to play Conference semifinal SaturdayUSWNT star in attendanceNo. 1 seed has high expectations in playoffsWHAT HAPPENED?

The official FC Cincy account posted the clip on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, highlighting that the superstar footballer would be in attendance Saturday evening. Lavell herself just played in NWSL final – unfortunately just coming up short in an OL Reign loss to Gotham FC – but maybe she'll bring some good luck to her hometown team on the evening.

AdvertisementWHAT LAVELLE SAID

Speaking while wearing an FC Cincinnati hat and jersey with a winter coat on, Lavelle said: "Hey guys, it's Rose – I'm so excited to be at the game tonight and I'm so excited to cheer on the Orange and Blue. Let's get the win, VAMOS FCC!"

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The expectations are beyond the ceiling this postseason for Cincy; they're the No. 1 overall seed and sport the 2023 MVP favorite on their roster in midfielder Lucho Acosta. On top of that, they won the MLS regular season award by finishing top of the table, being handed the Supporters' Shield as a result. Now, Pat Noonan's side are set to take one 2022 MLS Cup finalists, Philadelphia Union, in their biggest test yet. However, with Lavelle – a World Cup champion – in the stands, cheering them on, they might just get over the line.

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Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR FC CINCINNATI?

FCC are headed to the Eastern Conference finals, and have a date with the Columbus Crew. Lavelle's attendance proved to be lucky after all, with Pat Noonan's side now set to host their intra-state rivals on December 2.

With South Africa’s ODI squad “almost finalised”, the franchise cricketers in the country have one last opportunity to make a mark in the domestic 50-over competition and impress selectors ahead of the World Cup

Firdose Moonda10-Oct-2014South Africa’s franchise cricketers have 16 days to try and force their way into the national team for next year’s World Cup. The one-day competition, which starts today and will go through five rounds before October 26, is the only 50-over domestic cricket that will be played before the 2015 tournament. It is also the last chance for fringe players to catch the selectors’ eyes.Although South Africa’s ODI squad has been declared “almost finalised” by the convener of selectors Andrew Hudson, he has assured hopefuls that they are welcome to bang down the door. “We have a domestic series at home and we will keep an eye on that. If there are outstanding performances domestically, I will never rule that out,” Hudson said last month, when the squad to tour New Zealand and Australia was announced. “We want to send a message to franchise cricketers to say if you perform at domestic level you will be considered.”For the likes of Jacques Rudolph, Colin Ingram, Farhaan Behardien, Lonwabo Tsotsobe, Rory Kleinveldt and Marchant de Lange, that will come as welcome news. They have all represented South Africa in the past and are all looking for ways to make a comeback.Titans’ coach Rob Walter confirmed to ESPNcricinfo that Rudolph only made himself available to the franchise for the 50-over competition in order to push for a World Cup spot. Rudolph’s recent form hints that may not be too far-fetched an aim: he topped the run charts in the English one-day competition with 575 runs at 82.14.Ingram and Behardien were the third and fifth highest run-scorers in last year’s South African one-day cup, and both have been spoken of as outside candidates for a reserve batsman spot. Tsotsobe, Kleinveldt and de Lange will hope to be included as additional bowling options, especially as Vernon Philander’s limited-overs form has been inconsistent recently. Tsotsobe, however, admitted a recall would not come easily.”It’s difficult to get back into the national side because there is a lot of competition. But competition is healthy and I’m getting my confidence back,” Tsotsobe said. “I’m getting there, I think I’m 100 percent. I still need to bowl a couple of overs just to make sure I’m on the right path. If I produce results, the selectors will reward good performances.”While the six players mentioned above, and a few others, will dream that the five matches to come could see them claim wild-card spots for the World Cup, the reality is that there is only one gap South Africa will look to fill. Following Jacques Kallis’ retirement and Faf du Plessis assumption of the No.3 role, there is a conundrum regarding how many lower-order allrounders South Africa need in their team. Ryan McLaren has already laid claim to one spot, but if there is a need for a second bowling all-rounder, a player like Albie Morkel, David Wiese or Chris Morris could come into contention.Morkel may not get the chance to stake a claim because he is out of action until early December with an ankle problem. Wiese has a similar injury, but is expected to return for at least some of the matches. Morris is also expected to feature regularly after recovering from surgery over the winter and taking seven wickets in the Lions’ first game in the first-class competition. He sat out the second game with an injury, but is likely to return soon.Morris was called up to South Africa’s ODI side during last year’s Champions Trophy, and he could be seen as a welcome addition to a team still searching for glory at an ICC world event.

A round-up of the Pro50 Championship matches played on January 21, 2015

ESPNcricinfo staff21-Jan-2015An all-round showing from Mashonaland Eagles helped them to a 43-run victory against Mid West Rhinos. Chamu Chibhabha, Brendon Taylor and Ryan Burl all scored half-centuries to help them to 281 for 9 before the bowlers shared the wickets around to seal the win. Chibhabha and Taylor set up the innings with brisk innings, before Burl blitzed 53 off 29 with five fours and two sixes. In the chase, Rhinos got off to a woeful start, falling to 37 for 3 and then 109 for 6. That they got past 200 was primarily down to a knock of 58 from No. 7 Prince Masvaure, and cameos of 20-something from the tail. Sikandar Raza was the most successful of the Eagles bowlers with 3 for 43 off 10. The defeat meant Rhinos had lost their fifth game in six matches in the tournament to stay bottom of the table.Hamilton Masakadza scored 85 at better than a run-a-ball to help carry Mountaineers to 255 for 9, before the bowlers combined to shoot out current table-toppers Matabeleland Tuskers for 124. Roy Kaia played the supporting role to Masakadza, with 56 off 78. In reply, Tuskers were in danger of setting an embarrassing low at 28 for 5, but a couple of 30s from Nkosana Mpofu and captain Godwill Mamhiyo helped them gain some respectability before Brian Vitori slammed 29 off 13 to lift them past the 100 mark. Tendai Chatara, with 4 for 31, and Natsai M’shangwe (5-1-6-2) proved to be the destroyers-in-chief.

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

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.

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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.

Barcelona have used CGI technology to reveal what Camp Nou will look like once a spectacular €1.5 billion (£1.3bn/$1.6bn) upgrade is completed.

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La Liga giants upgrading their famous homePlaying at the Olympic Stadium for nowHope to see construction completed in 18 monthsWHAT HAPPENED?

The elaborate Espai Barca renovation project has been in the pipework for some time, with the Catalan giants having to work hard in order to put the relevant finances in place. Construction is now well underway, with one of the most famous venues in football being stripped back to the bare bones.

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Defending La Liga champions Barca are playing home games at the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium while Camp Nou is given a facelift that is expected to take around 18 months to complete – with the iconic ground in need of modernisation to bring it screaming into the 21st century.

DID YOU KNOW?

Barcelona have posted a video on social media showing supporters around the world what Sportify Camp Nou will become once work is finished – with a spectacular new home being delivered for the Catalan giants.

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WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

A domed roof is being added to Camp Nou, which leaves about one third of the pitch open to the elements through a central aperture, while the famous steep stands will flare out away from the ground as every effort is made to make the stadium as intimidating and atmospheric as possible.

Rafael van der Vaart criticised Jordan Henderson's transfer to Ajax as he claimed that the English midfielder's arrival has not made anyone happy.

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Van der Vaart slammed Henderson's transferQuestioned Ajax's decisionHenderson yet to win a match in EredivisieWHAT HAPPENED?

The former Liverpool captain arrived at Ajax after signing a two-and-a-half-year deal during the January transfer window following the mutual termination of his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. Since moving to the Netherlands, Henderson has appeared in three games but has yet to win in the Eredivisie.

Now, Ajax legend Van der Vaart has slammed the club's decision to sign the veteran midfielder as he feels that the player's arrival has not made anyone happy.

AdvertisementWHAT RAFAEL VAN DER VAART SAID

Speaking on Ziggo Sport's football talk program Rondo [via , the former Real Madrid and Tottenham midfielder said: "Players have been brought in with zero quality, then you have to sit out this season. They got Jordan Henderson, that doesn't make anyone happy. You will see that you will get through Thursday against Bodo/Glimt with all the luck in the world. Better get out then."

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The 33-year-old left Premier League giants Liverpool last summer to move to Saudi Arabia, where he joined Al-Ettifaq, who are managed by his former colleague and Reds legend Steven Gerrard. But just six months into his contract, Henderson expressed his desire to leave as he was unable to adjust to the conditions in the Middle East. In the Saudi Pro League, the England international appeared in just 17 matches and provided four assists.

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Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR JORDAN HENDERSON?

The England star will be next seen in action for his club on Thursday in the Europa Conference League as Ajax take on Bodo/Glimt.

The ICC board has decided that any formal decision on suspending the USA’s Associate membership status will not be taken until the ICC annual conference this June in Barbados

Peter Della Penna16-Apr-2015The ICC board has decided that any formal decision on suspending the USA’s Associate membership status will not be taken until the ICC annual conference this June in Barbados. In a press release following Thursday’s board meeting in Dubai, however, the ICC said it was “not satisfied” that the USA Cricket Association is compliant with all of its membership obligations.In the interim, ICC chief executive David Richardson will lead a task force to USA at some point in the next two months to “meet relevant stakeholders in USA cricket in order to prepare a comprehensive report”. This report will be reviewed at the ICC annual conference in Barbados.The outcome is another reprieve for USACA after it was put on notice at last year’s annual conference in Melbourne for being in violation of governance statute 3.1, which relates to the ICC member being the sole governing body for cricket in a country. A resolution was passed in January removing the stipulation but the member must instead prove it is the body “responsible for the administration, management and development of cricket in the country.”In a country where there is a dispute between two rival boards – as is the current situation in USA, with the clash between USACA and the American Cricket Federation – the ICC will recognise a member board if it can provide a letter of support from the country’s National Olympic Committee. Neither USACA nor ACF has been able to secure a letter of affirmation from the USOC. In the absence of such a letter, the ICC has the power to determine which among multiple boards will receive its recognition.The ICC sent a letter to USACA dated January 28 outlining numerous governance violations by the American body. One of the issues was that USACA’s general elections for both 2012 and 2015 violated its own constitution because the elections should have been held by November 30, 2011 and 2014. Another issue was that USACA has allegedly breached a Memorandum of Understanding related to the terms of a $200,000 loan from the ICC with the ICC concerned that some of the money was spent to repay USACA’s mounting legal fees instead of being used for administrative costs associated with cricket activities.USACA has also been in violation of Associate Membership statute 2.1, which mandates a full-time chief executive or general manager be employed along with another full-time development officer. USACA’s chief executive position has been vacant since Darren Beazley announced his resignation in March 2014 while Andy Pick resigned as USACA’s High Performance Manager in October 2013 after two months in the role due, in part, to interference in squad selection for the ICC World T20 Qualifier, which was held that November in the UAE.The letter to USACA, signed by ICC president N Srinivasan, stated that “unless USACA is able to remedy the concerns above to the board’s satisfaction,” the ICC would consider suspending USACA “with immediate effect and no further notice.”American Cricket Federation chief executive Jamie Harrison had led an online campaign over the past week to garner support for the ICC to suspend USACA. Although that did not occur, the ACF issued a statement on Thursday in which it supported the ICC’s announcement of a task force being sent to meet with stakeholders in America.”Today’s decision by the ICC validates the ACF’s long-standing position that all relevant stakeholders in the USA need to be heard,” the statement said. “ACF welcomes this opportunity to sit across the table from representatives of the ICC and discuss with them the future of the game in America.”