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Whilst Tottenham’s Premier League season has taken somewhat of a downturn in recent weeks, the one shining light throughout the campaign has been the emergence of the real Tanguy Ndombele.

The Frenchman showed flashes of his enormous talent in his debut campaign in English football following his big-money move from Ligue 1 giants Lyon – his long-range strike on his first top-flight start against Aston Villa is a testament to that.

But after Jose Mourinho’s very public criticism of the midfielder, the writing seemed to be on the wall, with reports suggesting he could be on his way out of the club.

However, he seems to have really knuckled down this season, and his haul of six goals and three assists in 29 games has surely delivered a reminder to Spurs fans that they have a really top player on their hands.

But, Ndombele could really be unleashed by Mourinho, if Spurs actually end up bringing in another midfielder. Namely, Juventus star Aaron Ramsey.

The 61-cap Wales international of course has some history with Spurs’ north London rivals Arsenal, but his ability to break the lines and make runs beyond the striker could be the key to unlocking Ndombele’s rich creative talents.

Arsene Wenger raved about Ramsey’s ability to get into the box and find himself on the end of moves, saying: “In my head Ramsey was going to be a player between 10 and 15 goals a year. He is a Frank Lampard type. He is (about) getting in the box and he has a huge capacity to run. Physically, he has a combination of stamina, power and his capacity to repeat high intensity is certainly the best in the league.”

That kind of midfield running and dynamism is exactly what could allow Ndombele to further thrive. Since moving to Spurs, his key passes per game have considerably dropped from his time at Lyon – in his two main seasons in the French league, he never dipped below 1.3 key passes per game, but at Spurs, that number has fallen by more than half to 0.6.

The fact that even in this breakout campaign his key passes are still incredibly low – even Matt Doherty has managed the same amount – is more of an indication of how the set-up around him isn’t tuned to getting the best out of him.

Ndombele’s driving runs and cute passes desperately need midfield runners alongside him, instead of just Heung-min Son and Harry Kane having to do the bulk of the movement and goal-scoring.

Speaking a couple of years ago, French football journalist Julien Laurens, said: “Everything he does is forward – there aren’t many sideways passes. The first thing on his mind is going forward, with a pass that can break a line or beat two or three players with a dribble because he’s so good carrying the ball.”

Having a player like Ramsey in the engine room would open the game up for Ndombele and give him another option to pick out when Spurs find themselves on the attack, and that could be a real game-changer for Mourinho.

Not only would it help raise Ndombele’s game even further, but it would also ease the pressure on the backs of both Kane and Son. A move for Ramsey could work wonders on so many levels.

Meanwhile, this Spurs star showed he can thrive in a new role under Mourinho…

Kevin Phillips believes West Ham United may make a summer move for Glasgow Rangers’ Calvin Bassey during the summer after he broke coronavirus regulations.

Bassey could depart

Bassey only signed for the Ibrox outfit last year from Leicester City. He has not been a regular, making just 13 appearances in all competitions (Transfermarkt), but many believed he was set for a bright future.

Unfortunately, he let himself, his teammates and his manager down when he decided to break lockdown rules recently to attend a small house gathering (The Guardian). It is unclear what is now in store for the 21-year-old.

Speaking to Football Insider, Phillips believes the Hammers, who were interested in him before he moved to Ibrox, may make an approach. He responded when asked whether they would reignite their bid:

“I think they will have an eye on the situation.

“West Ham might think to test the water in the summer just in case the club do want to move him on.

“It is a tough one because when you make a mistake everyone jumps on you but Stevie G isn’t daft. I think he will give him the benefit of the doubt.

“I’d presume that he wants to keep Bassey for next season. The last thing you want to do is win the Championship and then get rid of one of your best young players because he has slipped up during the previous season.

“Bassey is a talented player so I would be surprised if Stevie G was to move him on. If anyone was to make an enquiry I think he would squash that straight away.”

Benefit of the doubt

There is no doubting the very disappointing nature of Bassey’s actions over the past week or so. Given the scrutiny players are under at the moment, it is incredibly naive from the youngster to believe he could get away with flaunting the rules so openly.

The club have launched an investigation, and Bassey is likely to be punished. Fortunately for him, it will not have too big an impact on the Gers’ season – they are currently 15 points clear at the top of the Premiership with just nine matches left to play (BBC).

He is clearly a player with talent, and young men are always going to make mistakes. This time around, he should probably be given the benefit of the doubt. However, should he not learn his lesson, there will be nowhere for him to hide.

In other news, Rangers fans are livid at this SFA appointment.

Many Everton fans have been left to laud some comments made by Carlo Ancelotti ahead of their tie at Chelsea in the Premier League on Monday evening.

As per the official website of the Goodison Park faithful, the Italian boss said: “I am really happy to be the manager of this team and these players. I feel these players follow me. They have a lot of respect for my idea.”

The fact that Ancelotti is happy to be managing the Merseyside club is great to hear for Toffees supporters given his pedigree in the game, managing the likes of AC Milan, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Paris Saint Germain and Real Madrid.

The Blues do not have as much pedigree in Europe as some of the previous sides that he has managed, and so it really is a project to try and get EFC to that kind of level with him in charge.

Nonetheless, Ancelotti has done very well since taking charge at Everton, as they push to qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the 2021/22 term.

Everton fan reaction to Ancelotti comments

These Everton fans lauded his comments on Twitter:

“Not enough superlatives to offer this man. The Don, The Professor, The Master Tactician, Mr. Champions League, Carlo Magnifico. Feel free to add anymore. Ancelotti wins Italian Style. Will do for me. He knows who he wants in the summer as well. Will keep us guessing. NSNO.”

Credit: @Jeffreyhitchmo1

“Not only does he man manage the players he knows how to man manage the supporters too. Simple words but they mean so much”

Credit: @albie1405

“But who’s not going to love and respect this wonderful and caring man? I do……”

Credit: @JoannaNasseh

“Best manager we’ve had in my lifetime. Wouldn’t swap him for anyone”

Credit: @EPollazzo

“This is the stuff of dreams #Everton @MrAncelotti”

Credit: @bluemaidstone

“This makes me very happy!! @peterostick”
Credit: @pauldevs

In other news, find out whose display was slammed against West Brom here!

Manchester City look to be closing in on Estudiantes winger Dario Sarmiento and the 17-year-old could be the perfect replacement for Jayden Braaf in City’s academy.

It has been suggested recently that the Citizens are closing in on a deal for the Argentinian, although they will have to wait until the summer to sign the youngster, as he has not yet turned 18.

Estudiantes president Juan Sebastian Veron has suggested that the Primera División side are hoping to receive a hefty sum for Sarmiento, who has already drawn comparisons with Lionel Messi despite being so young.

The 17-year-old has already made 15 appearances for Estudiantes, in which he has contributed no goals and one assist.

A move to Manchester City seems inevitable in the summer and although he might not be challenging in Pep Guardiola’s first-team just yet, he could be the ideal replacement for Braaf in the City academy. Surely if he is already a regular with the Estudiantes first-team in Argentina, you would expect him to adapt quickly to academy football in England.

The Dutch winger looks likely to depart the Citizens this month as a result of a lack of first-team opportunities under the Spanish manager, with Bayer Leverkusen amongst those reportedly interested in signing the former PSV youngster.

Sarmiento would certainly arrive with a lot of pressure on his shoulders if City do end up paying the reported £10 million for his services but with it suggested that he is expected to be the next big thing to come out of Argentina, it does not seem that he is short of ability.

It is no surprise that he is earning Messi comparisons, as he is a left-footed winger, who currently stands at just 5 foot 4, so it will be interesting to see if he can adapt to the physicality of the Premier League and be a success in Guardiola’s side in the future.

And, in other news… “95% he’ll end up at Man City” – Exclusive: Pundit makes bold claim on £108m-rated MCFC target

This has been a strange season for Wolves and with the transfer window due to open imminently, it could get a lot worse.

But why is that the case?

What’s the word?

Wolves have had a rollercoaster few weeks, beating Arsenal and Chelsea but being defeated by Liverpool, Aston Villa and Burnley.

Without Raul Jimenez, they are missing their talisman but that shouldn’t be their main concern at the moment, it should be Adama Traore.

Reports emerged a few weeks ago that the Old Gold had become frustrated with the Spaniard’s contract situation and the latest news now claims he could exit.

According to 90min, Leeds are interested in signing Traore and he could be reunited with Victor Orta, the Whites’ director of football who worked alongside him at Middlesbrough.

Having already sold Diogo Jota in the last market, it would not be the greatest idea to lose another of their prized assets.

Who will benefit?

If Wolves do indeed sell Traore, someone who could cost Leeds around £40m, then they need to unleash a specific player lurking in the academy.

That happens to be winger Theo Corbeanu, an 18-year-old talent with the world at his feet. Like Traore, he is a frightening attacker capable of beating opponents, scoring goals and assisting them for his teammates.

So far this term, the Romanian has four goals and one assist in nine Premier League 2 outings, behind hailed considerably along the way.

U23 boss James Collins said earlier this year: “He’s athletic, tall, can head it, can defend, can dribble past people and score, he can shoot, he can pass, he’s both footed, he’s got a bit of everything.”

Collins then added: “Theo can be anything he wants to be. He’s an outstanding prospect.”

He may not have come through La Masia as Traore did, but Corbeanu clearly has immense qualities, ones that have great similarities to a host of players in Wolves’ attack.

Just think of Pedro Neto and Daniel Podence for instance. These types of tricky individuals thrive instantly in Nuno Santo’s team.

Corbeanu could do the same if unleashed.

AND in other news, Wolves liability who LOST 83.4% of his duels will have Nuno fuming…

If there’s one thing you can say about the Glasgow Rangers captain’s career, it’s certainly been a wild ride so far.

James Tavernier has experienced the highs and lows that are both part and parcel of being a professional footballer. It’s a dream job for many, and it’s easy to understand why as there are almost endless opportunities, but this doesn’t mean that it doesn’t require a lot of dedication, hard work and sacrifice.

Tavernier began his career in the Leeds United academy, where he played mostly as a central midfielder, until he moved to Newcastle United in 2008. He went on to make just two appearances for the Magpies, having spent the majority of his time out on loan, before he endured a torrid time at Wigan Athletic.

Rangers signed the Bradford-born full-back from Wigan for an undisclosed fee in 2015. Since then, the 29-year-old has oft been criticised by the fan base, but has been given a new lease of life by Steven Gerrard since he first took charge of the 54-time Scottish champions.

He came under fire after games against Hamilton Academical and Hearts last season, although he has undergone something akin to a redemption arc so far this season, with a tally of 15 goals and 10 assists to his name in total.

It’s perhaps hardly surprising his heroics have led his former manager Mark Warburton to call him “a class act.”

Valued at £4.5m via Transfermarkt, in 15 appearances in the Scottish Premiership this season, Tavernier has scored nine goals and supplied six assists so far, whilst he is averaging 2 shots, 2.3 key passes and 1.3 dribbles per game, via WhoScored.

The right-back is just one of two players along with Connor Goldson to have started every single game so far this season, which just goes to show that he is clearly one of Gerrard’s favourites.

He has also received the highest WhoScored rating out of any other Rangers player for his performances, including the ever-reliable Ryan Kent.

Tavernier was heavily linked with Premier League clubs Brighton, Burnley and West Ham in the summer. Is it any wonder, really?

Having scored the goal that secured the Gers’ promotion to the Premiership, now he must help them to regain the title for the first time since the 2010-11 season to fully complete his redemption arc.

AND in other news, Forget Goldson: Rangers’ Leon Balogun stole the show with masterclass vs Liege…

When Southampton released Ben White as a 17-year-old, few would have predicted that he would go on to establish himself as a Premier League centre-back who has been attracting interest from Premier League champions Liverpool.

The Englishman left the South Coast club in 2014 to join Brighton and he has enjoyed a meteoric rise to fame with the Seagulls, mostly due to his impressive displays out on loan.

After promising displays in League Two and League One with Newport County and Peterborough United respectively, the young defender joined Leeds United on loan for the 2019/20 Championship season and it was here that a lot of people started to take notice of the Brighton man.

White played every single game in the second division for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, as they were promoted as champions, sealing a return to the Premier League for the first time in 16 years (per Sky Sports).

Across his 46 games in the Championship for Leeds, the 23-year-old averaged a superb 7.09 rating for his performances (per WhoScored), so it was no surprise to hear that the Yorkshire club were desperate to sign him permanently during the summer transfer window.

His performances also caught the eye of Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool side, as the Reds were also linked with signing the defender during the summer transfer window.

However, he opted to sign a new deal with the Seagulls and has been a mainstay in Graham Potter’s side so far this season, having made nine appearances in the Premier League, in which he has averaged a sold 6.73 rating (per WhoScored).

During his time with Leeds, former player Noel Whelan told BBC Radio Leeds (via HITC):

“He’s a special player, isn’t he? He’s a special player. I know he doesn’t belong to us, I wish he did. That kid seems to have everything.

“If he does get us up to the Premier League, maybe there is a deal to be done. But I can imagine that he’s going to cost a lot of money, but he would be worth it.”

Jamie Carragher also suggested that an England call-up may not be too far away for the youngster, so it could definitely be argued that the Saints will be regretting releasing him in 2013, as he is now quickly becoming one of the hottest prospects in English football.

Glasgow Rangers defender Connor Goldson has played an instrumental part in Steven Gerrard’s side’s sensational start to the season.

Rangers are currently nine points clear of their arch-rivals Celtic at the top of the Scottish Premiership, having conceded just three goals in the league so far.

The Gers are on course to regain the title for the first time since the 2010/11 season after humiliating Hamilton Academical at home in a 8-0 victory before the international break.

What’s the word?

Goldson was named Player of the Month for October last week after his heroics in the first Old Firm derby of the season. He bagged a brace as the Light Blues cruised to a comfortable win over Celtic away at Parkhead.

Speaking to The Herald, the defensive stalwart insisted that he is ready to shoulder the responsibility of playing regularly to assist Rangers in their pursuit of silverware this season.

He said: “I am in the prime of my career, I feel strong physically and mentally and I am going into games feeling in a good place, which is always good.

“That is reflective of the team as well, not just myself. As a team, we feel in a good place and long may that continue.”

However, the club are concerned that he could run his contract down in 2022 if they don’t give him a new deal. So, Rangers chief Ross Wilson must give him a bumper new deal to ward off any potential suitors.

Wake up Wilson!

As regular readers of this column will no doubt be aware, we think that Goldson is the real deal.

The Ibrox boss was hit by a devastating injury blow before the start of the season after Nikola Katic suffered an injury during pre-season training, which has forced him to spend a spell on the sidelines for several months. The Croatian centre-back had established himself as a key player at the back, but Gerrard was forced to bring in Leon Balogun as injury cover in the summer transfer window.

As luck would have it, it has all worked out rather well in the end, as Balogun has turned out to be an absolute bargain, whilst Goldson has stepped up in Katic’s long-term absence. The 27-year-old has been a mainstay in Gerrard’s side so far this season, having already played 14 games in the Scottish Premiership, scoring two goals, whilst he is averaging 1.1 tackles and 2.9 clearances per game, via WhoScored. By comparison, even Katic could only manage 19 league games in the entirety of last season.

Whilst Katic has shown promising signs of recovery in recent weeks, he may have a hard time breaking into the starting line-up when he has worked his way back to fitness as Goldson has been in such fine form.

He was recently described as a “standout” performer by former Leeds and Aberdeen striker Noel Whelan, who told Football Insider that “he has been one of their standout performers this season, getting the goals in the Old Firm, it has shown Steven Gerrard that he is worthy of a bumper contract”, whilst Gerrard once singled him out for praise, calling him “extremely consistent.”

Keeping clean sheets is one thing, but scoring goals when it counts shows that Goldson is a useful attacking asset as well, which is exactly why the Gers must keep him at all costs.

Now he just needs to start turning these individual accolades into trophies, which won’t be an easy task. We don’t quite understand why it’s taking Wilson so long to sort out a new deal for him, as one thing’s for sure, he won’t be short of potential suitors, as Premier League sides like Everton, Leeds United, West Bromwich Albion and West Ham United have all been credited with an interest in him in the past.

AND in other news, Barry Ferguson 2.0: one Rangers midfielder Joe Aribo is becoming undroppable for Steven Gerrard…

Making a cameo for Portugal in their 0-0 draw with Spain on Wednesday, Joao Cancelo has prompted much excitement from Manchester City supporters, with the full-back now returning from a foot injury. 

A welcome addition to the squad, the 26-year-old can be deployed in a makeshift left-back role, as manager Pep Guardiola attempted at the back end of last season following his omission in favour of Kyle Walker.

Coming in for Benjamin Mendy, the Portugal international was used on that side against both Real Madrid and Lyon in the Champions League knockout rounds.

So far this season, Guardiola hasn’t been able to utilise Cancelo, with the Portuguese defender having picked up a foot injury in training.

However, after starting against Spain on Wednesday, it appears he looks ready for competitive action and could feature for City against Arsenal next week.

Reacting to this team news, many Citizens are in awe whilst also having their say over a potentially crucial development.

Man City fans’ reaction to Cancelo’s injury return

Citizens, should Cancelo start over Mendy at left-back? Have your say in the comments down below…

Celtic will be looking to continue their rich vein of form when they return to action in the Europa League later this evening.

Neil Lennon’s side head to Bosnia to face FK Sarajevo with a place in the group stages on offer for the winners.

Domestically, the Scottish giants are unbeaten and head into this match on the back of an impressive 3-0 victory over Hibernian on Sunday afternoon.

But will the Hoops boss make any changes for this tie? Here’s the XI we are predicting tonight…

Lennon could name a side with three changes as one of his favourites is set to return from injury.

In goal, first-choice shot-stopper Vasilis Barkas remains and he’ll be protected by a back three once again with Kristoffer Ajer and Shane Duffy keeping their places from the weekend.

However, Nir Bitton is likely to make way with Christopher Jullien back in training this week. The £5.4m-rated colossus had been out of action since picking up a back problem a couple of weeks ago.

In midfield, there could be a surprise change with 21-year-old David Turnbull starting over skipper Scott Brown. The 35-year-old veteran isn’t going to be able to play two matches per week all season and the £3m summer signing hugely impressed against Hibs. It’s well worth giving him the runout he deserves.

He could partner Callum McGregor with Ryan Christie playing slightly more advanced in the Bhoys’ engine room.

The width should come from Greg Taylor and Jeremie Frimpong once more as James Forrest is set to miss the trip through injury.

Another player that will be absent is the in-form Alban Ajeti, which means Odsonne Edouard is a shoo-in to return to the starting XI. He may well partner Moi Elyounoussi in a two-man attack.

The Saints loanee bagged alongside the £5m man on Sunday.

It means Patryk Klimala, Olivier Ntcham and Ismaila Soro have to settle for places on the bench once again.

AND in other news, Celtic could make a serious statement with swoop for £22.5m-rated “huge talent”…