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Everton will be hoping to return to winning ways when they take on Wolverhampton Wanderers in their Premier League clash at Molineux this evening.

Rafa Benitez’s charges have fallen to consecutive defeats at the hands of West Ham United and Watford in recent weeks following a fast start to the season, dropping the Toffees down to ninth in the table.

However, injuries to several key players have played their part in Everton’s recent slump and a much-needed victory over Wolves could take them back to within three points of the Champions League qualification places.

In Friday’s press conference, Benitez revealed he has no fresh fitness concerns, while star forward Richarlison is doing well in his return to full fitness.

The Spanish tactician is still expected to be without Abdoulaye Doucoure, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Yerry Mina for many weeks, but their enforced absences will present plenty of opportunities for fringe players to impress.

With that in mind, here’s how Football FanCast expects the 61-year-old to line up for today’s trip to the Midlands, with two changes from the side that started last time out…

England’s No.1 goalkeeper Jordan Pickford will keep his place between the sticks after carrying his good form at the end of last season and at the Euro’s into the current campaign.

Ahead of the 27-year-old is set to be a familiar back four. Although they conceded five goals against Watford in their previous outing, Mina’s hamstring problem means all of Lucas Digne, Ben Godfrey, Michael Keane and Seamus Coleman are likely to feature from the off.

There could be many changes made by Benitez in the Everton engine room, though. Doucoure’s absence was ruthlessly exposed by the Hornets, meaning a change of shape may be brought in to compensate.

That means Jean-Philippe Gbamin may get his first league start of 2021/22, lining up alongside Tom Davies and Allan in the midfield as the Blues look to sure things up in the centre of the pitch.

In attack, the £4.5m-rated Salomon Rondon is likely to be axed after failing to find the back of the net in his seven outings so far this term. That means, despite a lack of fitness, Richarlison starts up top. He is accompanied by Demarai Gray and Andros Townsend who occupy the wings.

And, in other news…Forget Doucoure: Rafa must unleash £65k-p/w EFC “monster”, he could be a game-changer 

Leeds United were knocked out of the Carabao Cup fourth round on Tuesday night by Arsenal thanks to goals from Calum Chambers and Eddie Nketiah.

Marcelo Bielsa chose a very strong starting line-up for the game, and would no doubt have been left very disappointed with how some of his first-team regulars performed, not least Tyler Roberts.

The Wales international has endured a nightmare start to the current campaign, with his latest shocker against the Gunners meaning he has now gone 12 games without a single goal or assist.

Against Arsenal, he was similarly ineffective, struggling to really get a hold of the ball and link up with the likes of Rodrigo and Dan James up top – in fact, he made just six successful passes in the entire time that he was on the pitch.

None of his three shots found the target, while he made no successful dribbles, and it was no surprise that Bielsa eventually hooked him for Joe Gelhardt just minutes into the second-half.

And, writing in his post-match player ratings, Leeds Live’s Beren Cross was particularly critical of him.

He said: “Not a whole lot fell for him, but another game with limited impact going forward from Roberts, who was hooked very swiftly after another failure to execute a promising opportunity with his back to goal and Arsenal out of shape.”

That feeling was shared by The Yorkshire Evening Post’s Graham Smyth, who added: “A couple of nice moments aside, didn’t take his chance again. Little surprise to see him withdrawn.”

Given Gelhardt is now seriously pushing for a place in the first-team, Roberts’ underwhelming display at the Emirates on Tuesday will have given Bielsa plenty of food for thought going forward.

Does the Leeds boss finally drop the underperforming Welshman, and give Gelhardt the chance to shine from the off.

Meanwhile, this Leeds star just embarrassed Bielsa vs Arsenal…

Sky Sports pundit Paul Robinson believes that Celtic have pulled off an “amazing bit of recruitment” following the arrival of striker Giorgios Giakoumakis from VVV-Venlo.

The Lowdown: Giakoumakis arrives with a big reputation

Playing his part in an outstanding 2020/21 campaign, the Greece international earned headlines after finishing as top scorer in the Eredivisie with 26 goals [The Scotsman].

After completing a move to Glasgow on deadline day, former Tottenham goalkeeper Robinson believes that the Hoops have landed a bargain in the 26-year-old as they seek to reclaim the Premiership title.

The Latest: Robinson hails ‘amazing bit of recruitment’

It appears that Celtic may have brought in the forward for a fraction of his former club’s valuation, too.

Speaking to The Celtic Exchange Podcast, journalist Anthony Joseph detailed that Giakoumakis would likely have cost £8.6m to bring to Parkhead if VVV-Venlo had managed to avoid relegation from the Dutch top flight.

Eventually acquiring him for around £2.5m [The Scottish Sun], Robinson believes that Celtic have pulled off a wonderful capture.

In an exclusive interview with Football Insider, the 41-year-old claimed: “It was an incredible achievement to finish top scorer in a relegated side. It shows that he is a very good striker.

“For the price that they’ve paid it looks like an amazing bit of recruitment.

“Of course, there is a different level of expectation and pressure at Celtic though. It will be a big test for him, playing in front of those fans.

“From Celtic’s point of view though, it is not a risk because the fee is very reasonable.”

The Verdict: Giakoumakis has the requisite qualities to succeed at Celtic

Despite his goalscoring exploits in mainland Europe, Robinson correctly points out the high standards that Giakoumakis will need to meet on a weekly basis at Celtic.

However, the 6 foot 1 ace looks more than equipped to make a solid start to life in Scotland. He brings a bustling physical presence to the attack, illustrated in his average aerial duel success rate of four per game last season [WhoScored].

Perhaps most importantly, the Greek also offers a potent goal threat. In 2020/21, he managed to constantly provide an attacking threat for a poor VVV-Venlo outfit, registering 3.2 shots on average per game.

Currently getting up to speed fitness wise, Hoops supporters will hope he can hit the ground running in the east end of Glasgow.

In other news, a prominent Celtic journalist has issued a behind-the-scenes update. Find out more here.

According to Rai journalist Filippo Grassia, speaking to Italian outlet Passione Inter [via Inside Futbol], Newcastle United have lodged a bid of around €100m (£85m) for Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic.

What’s the latest?

Newcastle’s new owners are fast approaching their first transfer window since taking over from previous owner Mike Ashley, with high expectations regarding the amount of money which could be spent.

An array of top talents across Europe have been linked with a move to the northeast, with the latest being Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic.

The Serbian’s name has circulated the English media for a number of months now, with the likes of Tottenham, Arsenal, Manchester United and now Newcastle linked with a potential swoop for the forward.

At just 21 years of age, he is currently the top scorer in Serie A, netting 15 goals and registering two assists in 17 league games this term, duly making him one of Europe’s most sought-after players. Moreover, it is believed that the striker has recently rejected a new deal at the Italian club, pricking up the ears of interested potential suitors.

Vlahovic would enter the final 18 months of his contract at Fiorentina next summer if he doesn’t leave in January, but with an £85m bid from Newcastle being reported, it appears that La Viola may be forced to sell.

The Toon Army will be buzzing

If Newcastle are able to sign a player ahead of the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester United for the significant amount of money being reported, it would be a major statement of intent.

The Magpies are currently 19th in the Premier League table, having won just once in the top flight this season, and they will need reinforcements in January to boost their survival bid.

Callum Wilson is currently their top scorer with six goals in 13 games, but only Allan Saint-Maximin has also scored more than once in the league so far this term, with three goals to his name.

Newcastle have netted 18 goals so far in the league, but they have the top flight’s worst defence, conceding 37 goals in 17 matches.

Furthermore, Wilson has scored a third of the Magpies’ goals, so an injury to the 29-yer-old could have detrimental consequences if it occurs, hence the need to purchase a striker in January.

It will always prove a huge task to follow in the footsteps of Newcastle legend Alan Shearer, who netted 206 goals for the Magpies, making him their all-time leading scorer. However, in the hugely prolific Vlahovic, they could find their best attempt at replacing the Geordie legend since he ended his playing career 15 years ago.

Still very young and without Premier League experience, it could be argued that spending such a vast amount of money on Vlahovic is risky, particularly with survival in the balance. However, it would be a major statement of intent, and the gamble could prove to have remarkable consequences should it pay off.

In other news: Eddie Howe outlines potential Newcastle injury setback, fans could be gutted

A number of Liverpool supporters are fuming after it was announced that Mike Dean will referee Saturday’s Premier League clash with Burnley.

The Reds are in good spirits after their 3-0 win away to Norwich City last Saturday, as they got their season off to a flying start.

Jurgen Klopp’s men looked every bit title challengers in their opening game and Manchester City’s 1-0 loss at Tottenham acted as an extra boost to the other contenders.

[freshpress-quiz id=“359326”]

Next up for Liverpool is the visit of Burnley on Saturday lunchtime, with a full Anfield crowd sure to create a memorable occasion back inside the ground.

It has been confirmed that Dean will take charge of the game, with the 53-year-old known for seemingly liking to take centre stage.

It was Dean who was in charge of the Reds’ 1-0 home defeat to the Clarets last season, when their long unbeaten Anfield record ended due to a late penalty for the visitors, which doesn’t bode well in the minds of these fans.

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Liverpool fans unhappy at Dean appointment

The supporters took to Twitter to unleash their frustration at the news…

“Prepare for a booking spree”

Credit: @twt_liverpool

“Lord be with us”

Credit: @Luvbender

“I still don’t get why a Tranmere fan is allowed to ref our games, I don’t know how they feel about us but I doubt they’re fond”

Credit: @ronanlfc

“Misery”

Credit: @Bishop_Yayo_

“CONFIRMED: Burnley will get a penalty after minimum contact outside the box at Anfield on Saturday”

Credit: @lfcthijs

“Oh dear Lord”

Credit: @DiRealLauren

In other news, some Liverpool fans are also unhappy at a worrying rumour that has emerged. Read more here.

Celtic head into their European qualifying clash tonight full of confidence after scoring ten goals in their last two outings.

It has been a quick period of recovery from the Hoops who began Ange Postecoglou’s reign with back to back defeats.

They crashed out of the Champions League but have a strong chance of qualifying for the Europa League group stages.

The Bhoys beat Czech outfit Jablonec last week and they head into the second leg on Thursday evening with a 4-2 advantage.

Celtic played some eye-catching attacking football in the first fixture but made changes to the team at the weekend which resulted in a 6-0 win over Dundee.

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Therefore, will Postecoglou make any different calls to his XI tonight? Here’s what we’re predicting…

We are tipping the manager to make as many as four changes to his team to take on Jablonec.

With Odsonne Edouard a doubt for the match with an ankle problem, Kyogo Furuhashi starts up top as he aims to add to his tally of four goals in just three outings.

There is one change to the offensive ranks where Ryan Christie is given a rest following his magical cameo on Sunday where he registered three assists. James Forrest – who scored in the first leg – comes back into the team on the left.

Another replacement is in the middle of the park where Ismaila Soro returns to the fray to offer more defensive protection in front of the back four.

Tom Rogic earned a rare start versus Dundee and even scored but it’s likely that Postecoglou will prefer a less attacking team on Thursday to protect the lead that they have.

Greg Taylor drops out at left-back with 19-year-old Adam Montgomery preferred. If the teenager does start, it would be just a second outing from the off in the first team.

One final change is at the heart of the defence as Nir Bitton comes back in after starting in the first leg. That means Stephen Welsh is axed with their clash against Hearts in mind.

Joe Hart continues in goal ahead of Scott Bain and Vasilis Barkas.

AND in other news, Celtic must sign 25-goal “great talent” who could become “better” than Henrik Larsson…

A number of Liverpool supporters have been bemoaning Fabrizio Romano’s update on the Reds’ hopes of signing Kylian Mbappe this summer.

Jurgen Klopp’s side managed to battle their way to a third-placed finish in the Premier League last season following a strong end to the campaign. Although that was ultimately seen as a success, due to so much seemingly going against them between injuries and daft VAR decisions, the aim in 2021/22 must be to challenge for the title again.

[freshpress-quiz id=“359326”]

For that to happen, Klopp may need to make some new signings, and Liverpool have been continually linked with an audacious move for Mbappe. The Paris Saint-Germain superstar’s future is still up in the air, with his current deal expiring at the end of next season.

According to Romano on Twitter, however, ‘there’s nothing between Mbappe and Liverpool’, acting as an undoubted blow for the Reds, if true. The Frenchman is one of the most highly-valued players in world football, scoring 159 goals at senior club level despite being only 22.

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Liverpool fans dismayed by Mbappe update

These Liverpool fans have been reacting negatively to the update on Twitter.

“All I know is pain”

Credit: @MarcusBiizie

“Killing dreams”

Credit: @Alexlloyd1995

“Nice one Fab pal, crush my dreams why don’t you”

Credit: @rorykelly07

“Ruined my holiday”

Credit: @_ls12

“Pain”

Credit: @_DakaloDeekay10

“It’s the hope that kills you”

Credit: @starwart1

In other news, some Liverpool fans have been reacting to a report linking the Reds with a move for a current Euro 2020 player. Read more here.

Some West Brom supporters have slaughtered Karlan Grant’s performance in the Baggies’ disappointing goalless draw with Derby County.

Valerien Ismael’s side could only draw 1-1 at home to Millwall last weekend, although the point still took them to the top of the Championship.

On Tuesday night, West Brom faced another home league game, with Derby widely expected to be swatted aside at the Hawthorns.

Unfortunately, that didn’t happen, however, with the Baggies unable to break down their opponents, eventually having to settle for a 0-0 draw.

One player who struggled was Grant, with the striker offering very little in the first half and eventually being substituted at the interval.

It was another performance that suggested the 23-year-old isn’t good enough to lead the line for Ismael’s side.

West Brom fans unhappy with Grant performance

These West Brom fans took to Twitter to criticise Grant’s display.

“Poor half #WBA too much long ball. Best passages of play have been quick sharp passing on the floor. Grant has been anonymous I was surprised he started. Would have Phillips on for him”

Credit: @beechyboy90

“I honestly hadn’t realised Grant was playing”

Credit: @HappyB79

“Grady Hugill Robbo on Saturday and it should have been those three starting last night. Grant offers absolutely nothing”

Credit: @Jackk_Ross

“Because Grant was absolutely shocking in the first half. Couldn’t tell he was even playing. Not so sure on Robbo though”

Credit: @ItsSamson2

“Unfortunately Grant is looking like a really poor signing for the money we have committed to pay, which despite what some think is actually £15m plus wages”

Credit: @Baggeridgebaggy

“We have to play Hugill, Grady and Robinson. Grant and Philips poor again”

Credit: @WBA78part2

In other news, some West Brom fans have been showing their love for one player. Find out who it is here.

West Ham United could revisit their interest in Hans Vanaken this summer, according to reports…

What’s the word?

Dutch website Voetbal 24 claimed that the Irons are still monitoring the Club Brugge midfielder ahead of a potential swoop in the transfer window, having wanted to sign him for just €15m (£13m) last year.

It’s thought that the 28-year-old may struggle to command in excess of €20m (£18m) after a season of poor performances on the pitch.

When the Premier League club were originally linked with Vanaken, it was claimed – by the same outlet – that he was enticed by the idea of joining the Hammers, and it’s hard to imagine his stance has changed much now that they have qualified for the Europa League.

Bargain price

With Vanaken’s value decreasing, it could be the perfect time for David Moyes to strike, so he must urge GSB to stump up the cash this summer as it could well be a bargain on their part.

A new central midfielder could be low in the priority list this window but they will certainly need to bolster right across the pitch if they are to remain competitive across a season which, with European commitments, could exceed 50 matches.

Vanaken, valued at just shy of £12m by Transfermarkt, presents a cheap but solid solution.

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He could well fit Moyes’ system like a glove as, like Tomas Soucek, he is capable of providing a goal threat from the engine room. His ten caps for Belgium have seen him find the net twice, whilst he scored 16 goals and provided seven assists in all competitions last season, via Transfermarkt.

Vanaken also captained Brugge in some key matches, including Champions League group games against Paris Saint-Germain and a Europa League knockout tie against Manchester United, so it’s no wonder Moyes appears to be keen on the 28-year-old.

“He has been one of the finest footballers in [the] Belgian league for several years,” claimed Sporza commentator Frank Raes. “Hans has good feet, is strong with the head, has insight and also his running and scoring ability are of high quality.”

Journalist Peter Vandenbempt added: “Vanaken gets better every year. He has everything Club Brugge wants: vision, technique, the right mentality and scoring ability.”

David Sullivan must look to add this goalscoring maestro to Moyes’ ranks at West Ham this summer, as he’d be an experienced option (464 club career games) and a potential bargain alongside Declan Rice and Soucek given his modest valuation.

AND in other news, West Ham set for huge boost as Rush Green update emerges…

Leeds United are surely in line for a summer of change as manager Jesse Marsch looks to stamp down his mark at Elland Road following four largely joyous years under Marcelo Bielsa.

The Yorkshire giants moved five points clear of the relegation zone with a hard-fought point down at Crystal Palace on Monday night, keeping safety in the Premier League firmly in their own grasp.

Despite it being so early in his tenure, the American head coach hasn’t been afraid to trust youth at times, as evident this week as he turned to Sam Greenwood once again – the 20-year-old academy gem came on after just an hour with the Whites in need of an attacking spark.

Perhaps Marsch could find another interesting solution from the U23s set up in the form of Sean McGurk, 19.

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Heading into the off-season, Leeds have been linked with renewed interest in RB Salzburg dynamo Brenden Aaronson, who was seemingly a target prior to the 48-year-old’s arrival in the dugout but given he has managed the USMNT international before, those rumours will only increase further.

But he could well already have a player capable of filling such a role in the Liverpool-born teenager.

Primarily a left-winger, McGurk is more than adept at playing on the right and through the middle as a no.10, just like Aaronson under Marsch – 17 of his 25 appearances came on the left, with the other eight being spread across the middle and right, as per Transfermarkt.

Whilst the Leeds gem is yet to taste action in the first-team squad, he has been a regular for the U23s in the Premier League 2 this campaign, where he has delivered three direct goal contributions from 17 appearances.

McGurk’s ability to press from the front with relentless energy will surely catch Marsch’s eye sooner or later and that’s exactly what you’d expect from his former Salzburg star, who ranks amongst the top 1% of his positional peers for pressures (27.23 per 90).

His performances at youth level for Wigan Athletic is what caught Leeds’ interest, whilst his U18s coach Peter Murphy has waxed lyrical about his potential, too. He told the club’s official website:

“Sean was brilliant, he’s been amazing. He had a slow start to his scholarship with an injury in the summer, but since he’s been fit, he’s got himself into the team and stayed there. He’s so effective in games, he sets things up, he scores goals and he’ll always do that because of his ability.”

Meanwhile, McGurk’s efforts in west Yorkshire haven’t gone completely unnoticed either – The Athletic’s Phil Hay deemed him “a cracking wee player”, whilst the Yorkshire Evening Post’s Lee Sobot dubbed the teen “a bag of tricks.”

On the above evidence, Marsch could well already have an Aaronson-like starlet within his ranks. The former Latics sensation ought to get a look in heading into next season.

AND in other news, Forget Meslier: Leeds titan who won 81% duels was Marsch’s one shining light at Palace…