Most Important People #12 – Shaun Lewis
Why he matters: I told Andrew McGee on our podcast last week that Lewis reminds me of a smaller Patrick Willis. He just seems like he has it, that indeterminable athletic characteristic that can’t be taught, learned, or even described.Of his play Lewis says, “I can go unnoticed for four years, as long as I’m helping my team out and we’re winning. We don’t need flashing lights and cameras. We just want to take care of business behind the lights.” Gundy responds, “everyone around here knows what he means to this program.” That’s borderline groveling from the head ball coach. And trust me, the light will be squarely in Lewis’ face by the time his days in Stillwater are up.This post is part of our series on the 20 most important people to a 2011 Oklahoma State title run. Check the full list out here.If you’re looking for the comments section, it has moved to our forum, The Chamber. You can go there to comment and holler about these articles, specifically in these threads. You can register for a free account right here and will need one to comment.If you’re wondering why we decided to do this, we wrote about that here. Thank you and cheers! 
Photo Attribution: KT KingWho he is: If Markelle Martin is the heart of this D then Shaun Lewis is its soul. Or the other way around, I get my body part sports metaphors confused sometimes. The point is that Lewis, a sophomore 4-star who spurned Notre Dame, Alabama, Oregon, LSU, Florida, and Nebraska (among others) to come be a star (and a STAR) in Stillwater is a top 10 player on a top 10 team (I have a few coaches in the top 10 which is why he’s ranked #12).What he does: He finished second the team in tackles for loss with eight, only trailing Orie Lemon. He finished 5th on the team in total tackles (49) posting game highs against Kansas and Kansas State plus a personal high of 11 against OU in Stillwater. Also those two picks against OU and game-winner against A&M were pretty nice. Where he fits in: Lewis assumed the starting nod at the STAR position by the Kansas State game last year and I don’t see him relinquishing it this side of getting h-word for the next three years. He’s not the type of athlete OSU is used to putting on the defensive side of the field. He seems like he should be getting a few snaps behind some 5-star at Bama or maybe running roughshod through the SEC East for South Carolina or a team like that. For Oklahoma State to have him is for Oklahoma State to have a game-changer on its hands.
Texas is, and will likely always be, the hub for top prospects in Texas. Young kids who grow up in Texas generally grew up as Texas fans. Many kids idolized Vince Young, Jamaal Charles, Earl Thomas, or any number of star players who began their careers in Austin.“Usually players from there, if they get an offer from Texas, they’ll go there,” Gundy said at his weekly press conference. “The majority of the guys on our team didn’t get offered by Texas.”It’s true – some of Oklahoma State’s best players from Texas didn’t earn scholarship offers from Texas.Jordan Sterns, Emmanuel Ogbah, Ashton Lampkin, Zach Crabtree — all guys who came out of high school without offers from Texas — to name a few.Despite the fact that the Longhorns program has been “down” for several years, top recruits will file in to Austin to watch the prime time matchup with Oklahoma State Saturday as many Texas natives do nearly every home game. Charlie Strong and his staff will have the ear of the recruits as they play host; but Mike Gundy and Co. are the ones who could earn a favorable impression with recruits and make a big statement on Saturday with a win in enemy territory.If you’re looking for the comments section, it has moved to our forum, The Chamber. You can go there to comment and holler about these articles, specifically in these threads. You can register for a free account right here and will need one to comment.If you’re wondering why we decided to do this, we wrote about that here. Thank you and cheers!
This is a guest post by friend of the blog Robert Whetsell2011… I don’t really want to go there, but Carson Cunningham and Matt Amilian kinda went down that path recently, so I went along for the ride:It’s a very crowded, dark place… pic.twitter.com/ZPgZ13CzF2— I’m beyond help (@RobertW_OkSt) November 21, 2016That’s the day that I stopped caring about college football things decided upon by humans. If you haven’t come to terms with this yet, let me help you. All of sports thrives on the mantra of “win and you’re in.” Except college football.High school football, basketball, wrestling, baseball, soccer, hockey, etc. Professional football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, etc. Even college basketball, hockey, soccer, lacrosse, baseball, wrestling, softball, etc.Win your division, conference, or league, and you move on to the next level where you have a shot at competing for a bigger championship. Win that, and there may be more opportunities. But one thing is a given…keep winning, and you keep playing.Except in college football.Only in college football can you win a major conference title and NOT be included in the chance to win the national title, while another team who did NOT win their conference, maybe didn’t even play for the title, gets the chance to keep playing.Why?Because college football is the only sport alive where humans get to decide who is worthy. Before you have a stroke, yes, there are “at-large” bids that humans decide upon in college basketball, but they DON’T get to discriminate against those who won their conference championship.Many have written (including CRFF and PFB) about the need to expand the college football playoff to eight teams. I wrote about this a very long time ago, advocating for eight super-conferences with divisions that would feed the playoff. That’s not happening anytime soon, but this could happen now by giving the Power 5 conferences auto-bids, then choosing three other teams. Let the normal bowl-a-rama take place for those not getting the invite. It’s not difficult at all. One more week of games compared to the current format. Business as usual. Just imagine Bedlam with a guaranteed spot in the college football playoff on the line.
I would have said “biscuits and gravy,” but whatever.But that’s not how it is, and doesn’t look like it will be for some time. So I worry about what OSU can control. Namely Bedlam. A Big 12 title.Because that’s within their grasp without asking for permission from humans. Humans who are biased, like myself. Humans who make decisions that cost a team a win, when the rules in place say they….ok, I’ll stop right there. No need to revisit that, as Carson and Matt have already exposed the dark place.My point is that, like 2011 (and 2013, and 2015), the thing OSU can control is the next game. Win, and you’re the Big 12 champion. Anything after that is not up to them, so I’m not going to stress about it.Beat OU!If you’re looking for the comments section, it has moved to our forum, The Chamber. You can go there to comment and holler about these articles, specifically in these threads. You can register for a free account right here and will need one to comment.If you’re wondering why we decided to do this, we wrote about that here. Thank you and cheers!
Transfers ‘Man City will try everything to get Alexis’ – De Bruyne endorses Sanchez pursuit Chris Myson Last updated 2 years ago 16:42 8/30/17 FacebookTwitterRedditcopy Comments(0) 
Getty Images Transfers Manchester City Premier League Arsenal Kevin De Bruyne A. Sánchez The Chile international has been linked with an Arsenal exit, and the Citizens midfielder believes his side will stop at nothing to sign the forward Kevin De Bruyne believes Manchester City will try everything to sign Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal if the forward is their top target before the transfer window closes.City have been linked with the Chile international throughout the window , with his contract at the Emirates Stadium due to expire at the end of the season.Citizens 10/1 to be Kings of Europe Article continues below Editors’ Picks Brazil, beware! Messi and Argentina out for revenge after Copa controversy Best player in MLS? Zlatan wasn’t even the best player in LA! ‘I’m getting better’ – Can Man Utd flop Fred save his Old Trafford career? Why Barcelona god Messi will never be worshipped in the same way in Argentina Pep Guardiola’s side have had a £50 million offer rejected , but could come back with a fresh bid amid speculation Arsenal want winger Raheem Sterling to be part of the deal.De Bruyne is a fan of Sanchez’s ability and feels he would be a positive addition to cap what he believes has been an ideal transfer campaign for City.”He’s a very good player obviously but I don’t know what’s happening about the other transfers,” De Bruyne said to Sky Sports .”I think City is doing the business perfectly this summer and if they want him they will try everything to get him. “And if he comes to us that’s a good addition.”Sanchez returned from injury to play his first match of the season against Liverpool on Sunday, but Arsenal went down to a humiliating 4-0 defeat.De Bruyne sympathises with Sanchez, who has faced a close-season of uncertainty and speculation. The Belgium international sees similarities with his own protracted move to City from Wolfsburg in 2015.”A quick transfer is good,” said De Bruyne. “If it drags on it can be annoying and I had to wait two or three weeks to join City.”Every time you go home everyone asks, ‘What’s happening?’ You say you’re going, then the next day you say you’re staying – it can be annoying.”Everyone needs to be happy, both teams, the players. But when it’s over, everyone is relieved.”The transfer window in England closes on Thursday at 23:00 BST.
Netherlands Ruud Gullit draws Advocaat ire after posting video from Netherlands dressing room Ben Valentine @bvalentine14 Last updated 2 years ago 03:52 9/4/17 FacebookTwitterRedditcopy Comments(0) 
Getty Netherlands WC Qualification Europe Netherlands v Bulgaria Bulgaria The Oranje legend and current assistant coach showed a brief clip behind the scenes following his country’s 3-1 win over Bulgaria Ruud Gullit decided to give the world a brief look into the Netherlands locker room after his country’s 3-1 victory over Bulgaria — much to the dismay of his boss.A brace from Davy Propper and a goal from Arjen Robben saw the Netherlands emerge with a much needed victory in World Cup qualifying, though they still trail Sweden by three points for a second-place playoff spot.And Gullit, an assistant to manager Dick Advocaat, was pleased with the result, posting a short video of the Netherlands dressing room following the game from his Twitter account. Article continues below Editors’ Picks Brazil, beware! Messi and Argentina out for revenge after Copa controversy Best player in MLS? Zlatan wasn’t even the best player in LA! ‘I’m getting better’ – Can Man Utd flop Fred save his Old Trafford career? Why Barcelona god Messi will never be worshipped in the same way in Argentina Gullit called the victory a “fantastic game” in the short video.#nederlandselftal #Bulgaria #3-1 @knvb pic.twitter.com/9N3x6E6tCv — Ruud Gullit (@GullitR) September 3, 2017 However, not everyone may agree with Gullit’s decision to post the video, as Advocaat told NOS after the game: “I think it’s quite strange to have a camera over there.”Upon learning it was Gullit who did it, Advocaat added: “Really? That’s not good. I’m gonna talk to him about this.”Gullit and the Netherlands will likely need victories over Belarus and Sweden in their final two qualification games in October to have any hope of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup.
Arsenal Wenger defends decision not to award penalty for West Brom’s Rodriguez Joe Wright Last updated 2 years ago 07:06 26/9/2017 FacebookTwitterRedditcopy Comments(0) 
Getty Images Arsenal Premier League Arsène Wenger A. Sánchez Arsenal v West Bromwich Albion West Bromwich Albion The Baggies’ forward felt he should have had a spot-kick in the Emirates but Wenger sided with referee Bobby Madley’s decision Arsene Wenger felt it was the correct decision not to award Jay Rodriguez a penalty in Arsenal’s 2-0 win over West Brom on Monday.The forward was felled in the area by Shkodran Mustafi in only the eighth minute at the Emirates Stadium, before he got to his feet and saw a shot tipped onto the post by Petr Cech after referee Bobby Madley allowed play to continue.Arsenal 6/1 to beat Bate 2-0 Article continues below Editors’ Picks Why Barcelona god Messi will never be worshipped in the same way in Argentina Lyon treble & England heartbreak: The full story behind Lucy Bronze’s dramatic 2019 Liverpool v Man City is now the league’s biggest rivalry and the bitterness is growing Megan Rapinoe: Born & brilliant in the U.S.A. West Brom boss Tony Pulis said it was “a stonewall penalty” and Rodriguez himself said he felt clear contact, but Wenger says Madley was right to award the advantage.”Mustafi tackled and touched the West Brom player,” the Arsenal manager told Sky Sports. “It could have been given, the referee left the advantage. I think it was right because they were in a position where they could score and they hit the post.”It’s a kind of decision that’s difficult. If he doesn’t give the advantage and they miss the penalty, people will reproach [the referee].”11 – Arsene Wenger has won all 11 of his home games v Tony Pulis, including all 10 in the PL (1 FA Cup game at Highbury in 2005). Comforts. pic.twitter.com/tT47vXKWRF— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) September 25, 2017Alexandre Lacazette went on to score twice to give Arsenal their third home win in a row in the Premier League and take his tally to four goals in the top flight.”What’s interesting is that he gets stronger in every game, and that’s very positive,” Wenger said of his club-record signing. “He adapts to the physical demands here and technically he’s intelligent. You could see on the goal from the free-kick, there was a rebound and he was there.”Wenger also praised the performance of Alexis Sanchez, who he believes has recovered fully from an ankle injury picked up at the start of the month.”He worked very hard, he finished tired but you could see that he’s back to his level,” he said.The win moved Arsenal back to within six points of league leaders Manchester City and Wenger said it was important to respond after there were weekend wins for Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham and Pep Guardiola’s side. @LacazetteAlex in #AFCvWBA…Shots on target: 2 Goals: 2 pic.twitter.com/rWhCRpLFny— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) September 25, 2017″In the first half, they had a very direct game, a very intense game to stop us from playing and they were dangerous on the break and from long balls,” he said.”In the second half I feel we dominated the game and it was one-way traffic. But as long as you don’t score the second goal, knowing they’re good at set-pieces, you’re always a bit on your nerves.”You’re always under pressure when everybody else wins. You can’t afford to drop points and you know a team who can give you a very difficult night is West Brom.” Check out Goal’s Premier League 2019-20 fantasy football podcast for game tips, debate and rivalries.
U17 World Cup Rahim Ali – Bengal’s Tiger set to spearhead India U-17 World Cup team’s attack Rahul Bali and Ashish Peter Last updated 2 years ago 06:07 30/9/2017 FacebookTwitterRedditcopy Comments() 
Anselm Noronha/Goal U17 World Cup India U17 A product of the Mohun Bagan youth team, Rahim Ali will be tasked with scoring India’s goals in the FIFA Under-17 World Cup…. With years of anticipation and preparation building up to its first ever FIFA tournament, India is finally all set to play host to the Under-17 World Cup in October.A few days ago, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced the final squad for the country’s first ever foray in any football World Cup.21 of the finest Under-17 starlets from a nation have been thrust the responsibility of carrying the flag and expectations of over a billion people. Among them is one particular teenager named Rahim Ali from Barrackpore near Kolkata. Article continues below Editors’ Picks Why Barcelona god Messi will never be worshipped in the same way in Argentina Lyon treble & England heartbreak: The full story behind Lucy Bronze’s dramatic 2019 Liverpool v Man City is now the league’s biggest rivalry and the bitterness is growing Megan Rapinoe: Born & brilliant in the U.S.A. The town was the setting of Mangal Pandey’s rebellion against the British in 1857, an incident many credit as the start of India’s fight-back against colonial rule.Barrackpore could be making headlines soon for sporting reasons when Rahim takes the field for India against the USA on October 6. A product of the Mohun Bagan youth team whom he joined in 2013, Rahim played in the Nursery League for a year in 2014-15. His potential for the national team was first spotted in the Coca Cola Under-15 Cup (East Zone) in 2014 when he was representing West Bengal.West Bengal would defeat Jharkhand 2-0 in the finals for the East Zone with Rahim bagging the man-of-the-match for his performance in December 2014. It was here his potential would be spotted by an AIFF scout, leading to an invitation to attend trials for the national team in Goa.Rahim was inducted into the AIFF Elite Academy after his performance in the trials. This was before Nicolai Adam had been tasked with preparing India’s team for the premier event. The German has since parted ways with the AIFF in acrimonious circumstances with the responsibility of guiding India’s young talents now in the hands of Portuguese coach Luis Norton de Matos.A change in coaches can lead to a change in philosophy and playing-style for teams but the Bengal youngster is not too fussed about the difference.“I don’t worry or think about what or how the coach conducts his practice. I am more concerned about my work and that I give my best to learn from every practice session. My job is to do hard work,” he says.The level-headed boy has no qualms about the pressure and extra attention that the prospect of being amongst India’s first ever World Cup participants in their own backyard brings.“I don’t think too much about it. I have the belief that if I get the ball in the right areas, I can do something. I do not let negative thoughts affect me. I have belief in my ability,” Rahim says.It is a good thing that the youngster has supreme belief in his abilities, for they were at one point questioned.One of the first players to be drafted into the initial Under-17 squad, Rahim was demoted to the B team in 2016 by Adam. He was also not part of the AFC Under-16 Championships.
The B team would eventually shut down and Rahim would be shifted to the India Under-19’s under the supervision of Floyd Pinto, his dreams of a World Cup appearance were fast slipping away.A demotion like this would have disheartened any youngster but the 17-year-old kept plugging away regardless of the circumstances.“I was never in a bad mood over my demotion into the B team. I always believed in my ability. My mummy and papa would speak to me daily and keep me motivated. I would always think of them. “I knew that if I persist and keep giving strong performances and learn from every training session, there is a chance for me to play for India at the World Cup,” Rahim says about that experience.In the end, perseverance along with a dash of luck meant the forward’s hopes of wearing the Indian jersey at the World Cup were reignited when Norton took over the reins of the team earlier this March.The 63-year-old Portuguese demanded a relook at the discarded youngsters along with the search of new faces as he conducted fresh trials for the national team.“I got a call from the manager saying that since the new coach has come in, he will hold fresh trials and this is the final opportunity for you to make it into the World Cup squad. The new coach liked my game and thankfully, I am now part of the squad.”My personal dream was to play in the World Cup. Now let’s see what happens in the tournament,” he mentioned.He also highlighted that Norton alongwith Abhishek Yadav, the India Under-17 COO, have been important figures the players look up to for advice and direction.”Norton sir and Abhishek sir are very senior. They always share their experiences about how life was back then when they were of our age. We certainly learn from their experience as it helps us on a day-to-day basis. It helps us cope with any difficulties that we are going through,” he pointed.Rahim is one of the two strikers picked by Norton in the final squad for the tournament along with Maharashtra boy Aniket Jadhav. The starlet’s determination has been a factor in his selection and the very same grit will be on display when India make their World Cup bow at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on October 6.
WC Qualification Europe Northern Ireland vs Germany: TV channel, stream, kick-off time, odds & match preview Ryan Kelly Last updated 2 years ago 18:25 10/5/17 FacebookTwitterRedditcopy Comments(0) 
Getty WC Qualification Europe Germany Northern Ireland v Germany Northern Ireland The world champions are aiming to add their name to the growing list of teams who have qualified for next summer’s tournament in Russia Germany can cement their place at the 2018 World Cup if they can avoid defeat against Northern Ireland in Belfast on Thursday.The reigning world champions are currently five points clear at the top of Group C with two games to go and a positive result against Michael O’Neill’s men will ensure they will be in Russia to mount a defence of their title next year.Northern Ireland are already assured of second place in the group and, as they strive to guarantee their place in the play-offs, they will be hoping to record a historic win against Joachim Low’s side, a result which would stall German celebrations. Article continues below Editors’ Picks Why Barcelona god Messi will never be worshipped in the same way in Argentina Lyon treble & England heartbreak: The full story behind Lucy Bronze’s dramatic 2019 Liverpool v Man City is now the league’s biggest rivalry and the bitterness is growing Megan Rapinoe: Born & brilliant in the U.S.A. Game Northern Ireland vs Germany Date Thursday, October 5 Time 19:45 BST / 14:45 ET TV CHANNEL & LIVE STREAM 
In the UK, the game will be available to watch live on television on Sky Sports Football, as well as being available to stream live using Sky Go. UK TV channel Online stream Sky Sports Football Sky Go In the US, viewers can watch the game live on television on the Spanish language channel UniMas and it will also be available to stream online using Fox Soccer Match Pass, Fox Sports GO and Univision NOW. US TV channel Online stream UniMas Fox Soccer Match Pass / Fox Sports GO SQUADS & TEAM NEWS Position Northern Ireland players Goalkeepers Carroll, McGovern, Mannus Defenders Hughes, McAuley, J. Evans, Brunt, McLaughlin, Hodson, D. Lafferty, Thompson, Flanagan Midfielders Davis, McGinn, Norwood, C. Evans, Ferguson, Dallas, Paton, Lund, Jones, Saville Forwards K. Lafferty, Magennis, Washington, McCartan Northern Ireland are boosted by the return of West Brom defender Gareth McAuley, who missed the last few international cycles through injury. However, O’Neill is still unable to call upon the likes of Paddy McNair, Craig Cathcart, Liam Boyce and Jamie Ward, who are recovering from long-term problems.George Saville and Jordan Jones are in the squad for the first time and could possibly earn their maiden caps against the world champions.Potential starting XI: McGovern; Brunt, Evans, McAuley, McLaughlin; Davis, Norwood, C. Evans, Dallas; Magennis, K. Lafferty. Position Germany players Goalkeepers Trapp, Leno, Ter Stegen Defenders Mustafi, Plattenhardt, Ginter, Hummels, Sule, Rudiger, Boateng, Kimmich Midfielders Draxler, Kroos, Can, Younes, Goretzka, Brandt, Rudy, Sane Forwards Wagner, Stindl, Muller Germany are without Mesut Ozil for the game and Sami Khedira, who scored in the corresponding fixture last year, also misses out. Mario Gotze has also missed the cut, while Timo Werner has pulled out of the squad due to a neck injury.Manuel Neuer is out injured, meaning that one of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Kevin Trapp or Bernd Leno will deputise, but Jerome Boateng is available for selection again.Potential starting XI: Ter Stegen; Mustafi, Hummels, Boateng; Kimmich, Kroos, Rudy, Draxler, Sane; Muller, Stindl.BETTING & MATCH ODDS 
Germany are 2/7 favourites to win according to dabblebet, with Northern Ireland priced at 10/1 to beat the world champions. A draw between the teams at Windsor Park is considered a 17/4 bet.Germany won 2-0 when the teams met in Hanover last October and you can get odds of 9/2 on the same result occurring in Belfast.Click here to see the full spectrum of markets available for the game.GAME PREVIEW 
Germany are one of just two teams who can claim to have an immaculate record in the European qualifiers for the 2018 World Cup. The world champions have galloped to the top of their group, tallying eight wins from eight games and, out of all the teams involved in qualification, only Switzerland have managed to do the same.Having cruised to Confederations Cup glory during the summer with a second-string squad, Joachim Low subsequently stressed his desire to secure World Cup qualification with games to spare so that preparations can begin early for next summer’s tournament in Russia and his team can deliver that wish by simply avoiding defeat against Northern Ireland.Germany came out on top when the teams met at the Niedersachsenstadion last October, with Julian Draxler and Sami Khedira scoring the goals in a 2-0 victory – the only goals conceded by O’Neill’s men in the campaign. Interestingly, however, five of those who started that game for Germany, including Khedira, are now unavailable.Low has been forced to contend with a series of injury blows to major stars during the course of the last year, but, despite those woes, he has guided his team through qualification without fuss. With a place at the World Cup nearly secured, he must utilise the depth of talent at his disposal once again in order to overcome Northern Ireland.With the final game of the group coming at home to Azerbaijan, the Germany boss will hope to use that fixture to assess what the fringe players have to offer and if any, such as Leon Goretzka and Leroy Sane, can force their way into the reckoning ahead of seasoned campaigners.
Transfers Atlanta United signs Garza to multi-year contract Ben Valentine @bvalentine14 07:46 11/30/17 FacebookTwitterRedditcopy Comments(0) 
Anne-Marie Sorvin Transfers MLS Atlanta United Tijuana Liga MX The MLS side has acquired the left back permanently from Tijuana and signed him to a new deal Greg Garza is sticking around in Atlanta for the foreseeable future.The left back has agreed to a new multi-year contract with the Atlanta United, the MLS side announced Wednesday.“Greg was an integral part of our first-year success and we’re happy we were able to bring him back on a permanent basis,” Atlanta United technical director Carlos Bocanegra said in a press release. “He’s a natural fit for our style of play and in addition to his on-field performance, which was recognized by his place in the MLS All-Star Game, Greg has become an important figure in the locker room.” Article continues below Editors’ Picks Lyon treble & England heartbreak: The full story behind Lucy Bronze’s dramatic 2019 Liverpool v Man City is now the league’s biggest rivalry and the bitterness is growing Megan Rapinoe: Born & brilliant in the U.S.A. A Liverpool legend in the making: Behind Virgil van Dijk’s remarkable rise to world’s best player Garza joined the expansion side for its debut season in MLS on loan from Liga MX’s Tijuana. The 26-year-old Texas native became a fixture in Tata Martino’s lineup, playing in 26 regular season games, scoring twice and adding five assists.He was also voted in as a starter for the 2017 MLS All-Star game while helping Atlanta become the first MLS expansion team since the Seattle Sounders in 2009 to make the playoffs in its debut season.Peace up, 🅰️-town down pic.twitter.com/uBw47Zwnqi— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) November 29, 2017Atlanta did not disclose whether a fee was paid to acquire Garza permanently, or the terms of the contract.“For me, it’s something I and my family always wanted. I’m glad everything’s been able to work itself out these past few weeks to get everything figured out with both sides in Tijuana and Atlanta,” Garza told Atlanta United’s official website. “Luckily everything worked out and we’re very fortunate to call Atlanta our new home.”Prior to his arrival in Atlanta, Gaza spent one season with Estoril in Portugal before moving to Tijuana in 2011-12. He would play with the Liga MX club until the 2016-17 season and his loan to Atlanta.Garza has also been capped 10 times by the United States national team, with his last appearance coming in a January 2017 friendly against Serbia.
United States Weston McKennie urges younger Americans to take chances in Europe Allen Ramsey 09:47 12/8/17 FacebookTwitterRedditcopy Comments(0) 
Lars Baron/Bongarts/Getty Images United States Transfers Borussia M’gladbach v Schalke 04 Schalke 04 Borussia M’gladbach Bundesliga The Schalke youngster wants more U.S. national team prospects to head overseas “if everything makes sense” and avoid MLS to start their careers Weston McKennie believes that if the circumstances are right, young Americans should take chances with European moves. The 19-year-old from Little Elm, Texas, has already made 12 appearances for Bundesliga side Schalke and recently earned his first cap with the United States after turning down FC Dallas and making a move to Germany in 2016. McKennie, along with Christian Pulisic, is a shining example of an American teenager breaking into a top club in Europe, and while the transition has been smoother for him than for others in the past, the midfielder believes more young players should try their luck in Europe. Article continues below Editors’ Picks Lyon treble & England heartbreak: The full story behind Lucy Bronze’s dramatic 2019 Liverpool v Man City is now the league’s biggest rivalry and the bitterness is growing Megan Rapinoe: Born & brilliant in the U.S.A. A Liverpool legend in the making: Behind Virgil van Dijk’s remarkable rise to world’s best player Watch MLS live and On-Demand with fuboTV (7-day free trial)”If you have the opportunity, I would say for me … 100 percent take it,” the McKennie told the Bundesliga’s website. “If it’s the right choice, if everything fits, if everything makes sense, I would say come. You don’t want to start in MLS and always have the question in the back of your head if you could have made it over there? I didn’t want that.”McKennie and Pulisic are two of the main reasons the future looks bright for U.S. Soccer despite a stunning failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup. Other young players, like 17-year-old Josh Sargent, have also opted to take on playing in Europe rather than starting their careers in Major League Soccer. That failure to qualify for the World Cup has sparked plenty of conversations about how best to develop talent while also costing U.S. manager Bruce Arena his job. The U.S. national team will also have a new man at the top, with Sunil Gulati announcing that he will not run for re-election as U.S. Soccer president in February.
Transfers ‘Time to enjoy what we have’ – Perez suggests Madrid unlikely to make January moves Dejan Kalinic 09:45 12/17/17 FacebookTwitterRedditcopy Comments(0) 
Getty Transfers Real Madrid Primera División They may be yet to hit top form this season, but the Spanish giants appear unlikely to make moves in the January transfer window Real Madrid president Florentino Perez hinted it was unlikely the La Liga giants would add to their squad in January.A 1-0 win over Gremio on Saturday saw Madrid claim the Club World Cup – their fifth trophy in 2017.But Zinedine Zidane’s men are yet to hit top form this season, finishing second in Group H of the Champions League and falling eight points behind Barcelona in La Liga. Article continues below Editors’ Picks Lyon treble & England heartbreak: The full story behind Lucy Bronze’s dramatic 2019 Liverpool v Man City is now the league’s biggest rivalry and the bitterness is growing Megan Rapinoe: Born & brilliant in the U.S.A. A Liverpool legend in the making: Behind Virgil van Dijk’s remarkable rise to world’s best player However, Perez suggested additions were unlikely for Madrid in January.”Everything can be improved but when things are working well, sometimes it’s best not to interfere,” he said.”We have great players and a raft of young talent coming through. It’s now time to enjoy what we have.”Madrid’s next outing is the El Clasico on December 23 as Barca visit the Santiago Bernabeu, the last match of 2017 for the club.
Since you’re here… news Share on Messenger Share on Twitter Support The Guardian Sources have confirmed to the Guardian that no formal discussions have taken place between the European Tour and LET but that Pelley is giving the matter serious consideration. A spokesman for the European Tour said: “We are always looking at ways to grow and expand our business.” The European Tour, while facing its own economic challenges against the fiscal power of the US PGA Tour, may regard a professional women’s operation as key to entering untapped markets.Scotland’s Catriona Matthew, one of the LET’s finest exports, this year admitted her fear that young professionals playing in Europe would need to take on a second job to make ends meet.The LET confirmed this month, in a brief statement, that its chief executive, Ivan Khodabakhsh, was “stepping aside” after four years in the role. As tournaments fell off the LET schedule and poor financial figures were reported, Khodabakhsh, a former boxing executive, was subject to widespread criticism.The LET refuses to explain the reasons for Khodabakhsh’s departure, with Mark Lichtenhein, its chairman, assuming day‑to‑day duties for now. Coincidentally Lichtenhein, formerly the head of television, digital media and technology at the European Tour, was an early victim of regime change as implemented by Pelley. Now the pair are almost certain to talk regarding what would be a significant business deal.Mike Whan, the head of the LPGA, said this week that his firm is also taking a close interest in European affairs. He has also been in discussion with Pelley. “I don’t really have a timeline for this,” Whan said. “I do hope that before the end of the year we can sit down with them and say: ‘Here is the way we see it. Is this something you think we can do together?’“We are working together, Keith and I, to provide a suggestion as to what we think we could do together. We are trying to create one vision.”The LET has an existing connection to the LPGA via the Solheim Cup, which at least continues to grow in a commercial sense, plus co-sanctioned tournaments as recently extended from majors to the Scottish Open. The financial gap between the respective tours is vast. As things stand, 20th on the LPGA money list has collected $634,000. In Europe, the same position is worth just under €39,000.Speaking to the Guardian as the Solheim Cup played out this week, Lichtenhein insisted the LET remains a viable business, if one operating as an outdated model. “I’ve been looking at our governance structure, which I think is in need of updating,” he said. “We have articles of association that haven’t been changed in the last 30 years. I’m not saying there is anything wrong with that but with everything that is going on just now around governance in sport, and the UK government’s interest in that, we want to show ourselves as a modern company.”The chief executive position will be discussed at a LET board meeting in a fortnight’s time, with Lichtenhein unwilling to be drawn on whether he would be willing to take on the role full-time. It rather serves as a metaphor for golf as a whole but this job is surely the domain of a young, dynamic individual who can breathe fresh life into a business beset by bad publicity. “Quite clearly the priority right now is getting more tournaments,” Lichtenhein said. “I think we have been very unlucky with global events. There were problems in Turkey. We had a Czech Open ready to go then the sports minister was arrested. There were changes to sponsorship rules in China.“There have been unexpected issues with sponsorship arrangements and in hindsight we were probably a little optimistic in terms of tournaments we hoped would come to fruition and didn’t. But there is no connectivity between any of these things. None of them have happened because this is women’s golf, other than maybe it is a bit of a soft target.“The game is obviously becoming more global. Look at the strength of the Asian girls in golf, arguably women’s golf is more global than men’s. But you still have a need for regional opportunities.” Read more Ewan Murray … we have a small favour to ask. More people, like you, are reading and supporting the Guardian’s independent, investigative journalism than ever before. And unlike many news organisations, we made the choice to keep our reporting open for all, regardless of where they live or what they can afford to pay.The Guardian will engage with the most critical issues of our time – from the escalating climate catastrophe to widespread inequality to the influence of big tech on our lives. At a time when factual information is a necessity, we believe that each of us, around the world, deserves access to accurate reporting with integrity at its heart.Our editorial independence means we set our own agenda and voice our own opinions. Guardian journalism is free from commercial and political bias and not influenced by billionaire owners or shareholders. This means we can give a voice to those less heard, explore where others turn away, and rigorously challenge those in power.We hope you will consider supporting us today. We need your support to keep delivering quality journalism that’s open and independent. Every reader contribution, however big or small, is so valuable. Support The Guardian from as little as $1 – and it only takes a minute. Thank you. European Tour BBC’s coverage of US PGA was not perfect but criticism has been rough Golf
LPGA Share on Pinterest Share on Facebook Topics Share on WhatsApp Reuse this content Share on LinkedIn Read more Share via Email Lexi Thompson’s ‘weirdest round’ helps US to beat Europe in Solheim Cup The European Tour could launch a takeover bid for its struggling ladies equivalent. The Ladies European Tour (LET), which has been badly hindered by the loss of tournaments, is also a potential business target for the US-based LPGA Tour. If that single, global brand would seem a natural alternative to the status quo, the plans of the European Tour’s chief executive, Keith Pelley, will be subject to deeper intrigue.Since taking office, Pelley has displayed a willingness to completely alter what could be regarded as archaic arrangements within golf.
There was some late anxiety to endure as Crystal Palace, sensing another late rally might be rewarded, flung themselves into desperate pursuit of an unlikely equaliser, but Arsenal are back to counting this corner of south London as a home from home. They had retreated battered and bruised by a chastening defeat at this venue in April, yet they had not benefited from a fit Jack Wilshere in their ranks on that occasion. Times have changed.The England midfielder was at the heart of everything impressive they tried here, spiky in the tackle and mature with his positioning, and a creator of his team’s decisive third goal with a carefully lofted pass over Palace’s back-line for Alexis Sánchez to collect on his thigh and poke into the corner on the gallop. The Chilean’s form, perhaps predictably, is flickering back into life with the transfer window so close and his contract ticking down. Wilshere’s deal, too, expires in the summer, though arguably the visiting fans’ best news of an encouraging night was the midfielder’s post-match assertion that he was sure a new contract “will get done”.On this evidence, he is rightly restored as the side’s fulcrum, his metronomic presence a source of reassurance for a team who have been prone to panic at times. “Jack is coming back in competitive shape and gives something to the team at the moment,” said Wenger. “People who don’t have long contracts are questioned, always. But as long as you are somewhere, you give your best. The best way to show they are committed is to give that kind of performance. I felt Sánchez was very good from the first minute. This kind of Sánchez is a great football player, as we know. That’s the kind of performance we want from him.”Possibly more disconcerting was the sight of the forward looking nonplussed – perhaps more bemused than infuriated – to discover only a handful of team-mates had joined him in front of the away support to celebrate Arsenal’s second goal. Sánchez, all short back-lift and frightening power, had ripped his shot through James Tomkins’ legs and inside Julián Speroni’s near post, but plenty of his colleagues preferred to celebrate together nearer the halfway line. It had Thierry Henry chuntering up in the Sky studio, though, in truth, it is easy to read too much into apparent splits when, in reality, raw emotion at a lead restored had probably taken over. The problem is observers will continue to scrutinise the body language until Sánchez’s time at the club is either extended or ends in divorce.The thought of losing a player of his calibre feels all the more troubling in the aftermath of a performance this scintillating, even if all of Arsenal’s attackers had purred through the opening period. Comfortable with a back three and far more sprightly than tentative opponents, with Palace so nervous as runners infiltrated their lines, the visitors should have ended the contest by the interval. Nothing illustrated their superiority better than Sánchez’s delicious diagonal slide-rule pass beyond Tomkins for the on-rushing Mesut Özil to flick goalwards, only for Speroni to thrust out a left hand instinctively and paw the attempt away. The German would waltz through the centre again before the half was out, this time undoing his work with a heavy touch, but by then Arsenal were ahead.After Palace failed to clear their lines Alexandre Lacazette was permitted to turn inside and curl a left-footed shot which was only pushed out by the diving Speroni. Shkodran Mustafi, alone beyond Martin Kelly at the far post, calmly side-footed into the net. Sánchez, standing with one foot beyond the back-line, had made a vague attempt to reach Lacazette’s effort, but the offside appeals were half-hearted. So had been much of the hosts’ play with frustration eventually overcoming Wilfried Zaha who was booked for dissent as the teams departed for the interval. At least he spent half-time channelling that exasperation into a positive response. He, and Palace, were unrecognisable as an attacking force thereafter.Andros Townsend, after Zaha’s dart beyond Calum Chambers and pull-back from the byline, side-footed the hosts level and they might have led had Chambers not blocked Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s attempt. Even Arsenal’s flurry of goals around the hour-mark did not knock the stuffing from the home side’s approach and Zaha, mistiming a header in front of goal, and Bakary Sako might have scored before Tomkins nodded home as full time approached. That was Palace’s first goal from a set piece this season – so much for such routines being their forte – and provoked late anxiety, but Wenger’s side maintained their composure to survive.This defeat ended Palace’s eight-match unbeaten run and left them a point above the relegation zone. To make matters considerably worse, Manchester City are their opponents at Selhurst Park on Sunday to confront a patched up side. Yet, while Hodgson juggles his options, Arsenal are buoyed. Sunday’s trip to the Hawthorns, another venue where they had sunk without trace last season, suddenly feels like an opportunity. Topics Crystal Palace Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Premier League Read more Resurgent Jack Wilshere’s discipline and craft give Arsenal rare balance Arsène Wenger: ‘The goal is to make people happy but you don’t always do it’ Read more match reports
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Share on Twitter Share via Email Sign up to the Spin – our weekly cricket round-up news Since you’re here… Show Share on Pinterest Smith said: “When you see [Vince] bat well, boy does he look a Test player. However, there’s a bigger picture and this is what I said to him today: his cricketing history throughout his Tests and also levels below, he has not produced the runs he should have done. He has not defined enough matches in a way that a top-order batsman with his ability should.”On Root’s return to No 3 he added: “If you’d asked me, I’d have said I’d love Joe to want to bat there. Independently of that, Joe has said that’s what he wants to do – and I think it’s an excellent move. Joe wants what is best for the team.”The former Test Match Special commentator and Kent batsman went on to state that the door is not closed for Vince or Moeen Ali, who was dropped for the final Test of a harrowing winter both for England and personally, and has been at the IPL since. Was this helpful? Cricket Share on Facebook “The panel felt it was the ideal time to reintroduce Jos,” said Smith. “We felt that a player of his unique gifts – what he brings as a destructive batsman, as a competitive presence, as a dynamic athlete, as someone who has leadership skills and is playing with such confidence and flair – this was the right time. The decision has been made eyes wide open.”The starting point for Buttler’s inclusion was actually the promotion of Jonny Bairstow to No 5. While the Yorkshireman retains the gloves ahead of England’s one-day wicketkeeper – Smith cited his ability to perform both roles – it is hoped this will bolster the batting as the captain, Joe Root, returns to No 3 and James Vince misses out.While Mark Stoneman is afforded another chance as Alastair Cook’s opening partner, Vince’s demotion after 13 caps and an average of 24.9 comes despite a match-saving unbeaten 201 for Hampshire against Somerset compiled over eight and a half hours. England v Pakistan 2018 Instead Bess gets the spinner’s berth, having claimed 63 wickets at 22 apiece in his 16 games to date, albeit with only one of those games coming this season. Smith praised this excellent start to his career, the impression he made when with the England Lions and MCC during the winter and his sparky character.Commenting on the news of his first Test call-up, Bess said: “I was actually in Ikea with my girlfriend. I’ve just got a new house so we were looking for some sofas and I was having an argument with my missus.“I was really gutted for Leachy. He’s worked so hard. Luckily I’m very good mates with him and we work very well together at Somerset.”ECB and Surrey to meet over Hundred concernsThe England and Wales Cricket Board has called a meeting with officials at Surrey in a bid to address any ongoing issues with the new 100-ball competition.Colin Graves, the ECB chairman, appeared to threaten the club with the removal of the Oval’s host status during an interview with the Daily Telegraph on Monday in response to perceived sniping about the controversial new format’s rather hapless launch.Richard Gould, the Surrey chief executive, described some of the public reaction to the tournament as “mirthful” over the weekend, prompting Graves to say: “If they don’t want it, fine. But if they do want it, they have to be 100% committed.”Surrey insist they remain determined to make The Hundred a success but, much like the Professional Cricketers’ Association, they are also keen to get more detail and see their questions addressed when they meet with the ECB in the first week of June. Topics Joe Root (Yorkshire, capt), Jimmy Anderson (Lancashire), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire, wkt), Dom Bess (Somerset), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Alastair Cook (Essex), Dawid Malan (Middlesex), Ben Stokes (Durham), Mark Stoneman (Surrey), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham). … we have a small favour to ask. More people, like you, are reading and supporting the Guardian’s independent, investigative journalism than ever before. And unlike many news organisations, we made the choice to keep our reporting open for all, regardless of where they live or what they can afford to pay.The Guardian will engage with the most critical issues of our time – from the escalating climate catastrophe to widespread inequality to the influence of big tech on our lives. At a time when factual information is a necessity, we believe that each of us, around the world, deserves access to accurate reporting with integrity at its heart.Our editorial independence means we set our own agenda and voice our own opinions. Guardian journalism is free from commercial and political bias and not influenced by billionaire owners or shareholders. This means we can give a voice to those less heard, explore where others turn away, and rigorously challenge those in power.We hope you will consider supporting us today. We need your support to keep delivering quality journalism that’s open and independent. Every reader contribution, however big or small, is so valuable. Support The Guardian from as little as $1 – and it only takes a minute. Thank you.
What county cricket can expect from ‘big dog’ Virat Kohli’s arrival Reuse this content The Spin: sign up and get our weekly cricket email. Quick guide England squad for first Test v Pakistan Read more Read more Hide Jos Buttler Support The Guardian England cricket team Share on LinkedIn Thank you for your feedback. Jos Buttler has earned his Test recall on the back of his “unique gifts” as a destructive batsman. This was the view from Ed Smith when he named his first squad as England’s national selector and handed an opportunity to the uncapped off-spinner Dom Bess.While the 20-year-old Bess comes in on the back of the broken thumb suffered by his Somerset colleague, Jack Leach, on Monday, it was the decision to bring in Buttler as a specialist No 7 batsman that hogged much of the attention out of the 12 picked for the first of a two-match series against Pakistan at Lord’s on 24 May.The 27-year-old certainly represents a wildcard pick where talent trumps County Championship form, with the last of his 16 caps coming in India 18 months ago, no first-class cricket since last year and the first part of the season spent thrashing five successive half-centuries for Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League. Share on Messenger Share on WhatsApp
Pablo Hernández snatched victory to earn Leeds a third straight league win and breach fortress Bramall Lane, halting Sheffield United’s eight-match unbeaten home run.Hernández will not score an easier goal this season, sweeping home after a grave error by Dean Henderson. John Egan’s overhit backpass had Henderson backpedalling and the goalkeeper, on loan from Manchester United, failed to find safety in Jack O’Connell, selling his defender painfully short, and instead allowed Jack Clarke to cross into the unguarded goalmouth. Substitutes 28 Cranie 14 8 (s 84′) 4 Fleck Lineups Stockport’s Jim Gannon: ‘Our current position belies this club’s history’ This was not the bedlam many had hoped would ensue between the Yorkshire neighbours but it was another great advert for the division, though the hosts felt hard done by. “I thought we played extremely well, dominated an excellent side,” Wilder said. “We missed a couple of big chances and the game was decided in an individual error. I think it would be harsh to say we were on the back foot in that game. I thought we did remarkably well and we are doing remarkably as staff in terms of what we are getting out of the players. I said at half-time it could have been decided by a bit of magic, taking a chance or a mistake and unfortunately for us it’s the final one.”Aapo Halme, the 20-year-old defender who replaced Cooper for only his second appearance in a Leeds shirt, had the visitors’ best chance of the first half but Henderson repelled his low effort after the ball dropped kindly in the box.Leeds were caged for large spells and Wilder’s side continued to pour forward. Unsurprisingly a golden chance fell to Sharp but he could not convert from point-blank range. When McGoldrick sold Phillips a treat to turn his man on the edge of the area, he teed up Sharp to nod his header across goal but the striker was guilty of opting for power over placement. Sheffield United Match stats 4 Forshaw That mistake eight minutes from time proved decisive, though the substitute Conor Washington almost rescued the unrelenting hosts in stoppage time, but his acrobatic effort cannoned back off the woodwork.Marcelo Bielsa and Chris Wilder have taken different routes to the Championship – the former via Argentina and Chile, the latter via Alfreton and Halifax – but both have grand plans to arrive at the same destination in May.Before a ball was kicked, Bielsa referenced Wilder’s philosophy and, after this supercharged match between two promotion hopefuls, he admitted the hosts caused problems, namely the underlapping centre-back Chris Basham.On the back foot and struggling to live with Wilder’s side, Bielsa had another headache when his captain, Liam Cooper, hobbled off with a meniscus injury.Wilder’s side seized the initiative from the start and should have taken the lead through Billy Sharp and David McGoldrick, but Bailey Peacock-Farrell, the Leeds goalkeeper, stood firm. 52 Halme LEE SHU The Observer 1 Henderson 46 Shackleton Goal attempts Corners 12 Egan Fouls Share on Messenger 25 Moore Facebook Read more 6 Basham 9 3 (s 46′) 43 Klich 16 Norwood Pinterest 10 Alioski 10 Sheff Utd Off target 5 Leeds 2 Sheff Utd On target 6 Leeds Share on Facebook 7 Roofe match reports 47 Clarke 15 Coutts 19 Stearman Dean Henderson reacts after his error costs Sheffield United a point. Photograph: Craig Brough/Action Images Marcelo Bielsa 22 Johnson
1 Peacock-Farrell 22 Harrison Leeds United Substitutes Read more Leeds, who introduced the lively 18-year-old Clarke at the interval, appeared naive on occasions, with Halme almost punished for a costly lapse, when his failed clearance invited McGoldrick to stride into the box before taking aim. Pontus Jansson hurled himself at the striker’s first effort before Peacock-Farrell quickly repositioned himself and sprawled to keep out McGoldrick’s second attempt with his legs.The busy Mateusz Klich instigated panic in the Blades box, forcing Henderson into a routine stop, but Kemar Roofe almost went one better, glancing wide from Dallas’s cross. Leeds grew stronger and, when Henderson, preventing a corner, undercooked his pass for O’Connell, Clarke calmly slid in Hernández.“There was a moment which was very important for me,” said Bielsa. “My assistant Pablo Quiroga told me to change the positions of Roofe and Hernández. From that moment we improved. We are not sure the top six today will be the top six at the end of the season but what I can say is we played a serious opponent; it was hard for us to find a solution. It’s always beautiful to win. If the result of the win is to be top, even better.” It was – but only for a few hours and Norwich’s victory. 18 Jansson 6 Cooper 45 55 Share on Pinterest Share on WhatsApp 15 Dallas 5 O’Connell 10 Sharp 34 Baker Twitter Sheff Utd Leeds LEE45SHU55% Share on LinkedIn 3 Douglas (s 62′) 17 McGoldrick 21 Duffy Possession 13 Huffer 2 Baldock 23 Phillips Sheffield United 0-1 Leeds United: Championship – as it happened 39 Washington 7 Lundstram (s 90′) Share via Email Topics Share on Twitter (s 21′) Championship Reuse this content 19 Hernandez 14 Samuel 3 Stevens
Harry who? How Leicester’s defence thrived despite selling £80m Maguire 2012-13Rodgers tells fans he’ll “leave no stone unturned in my quest. And that quest will be relentless.” Fly-on-the-wall TV series Being:Liverpool later charts how he settled in during his first pre-season, with big speeches – “I use a quote with the players, ‘Per aspera ad astra’, which is Latin for ‘through adversity to the stars’” – and with his mind-games. Footage shows Rodgers telling the squad how he had written three names in sealed envelopes of players who will “let us down this year … Make sure you are not in the envelope.” They lose their first game 3-0.The series also visits his house, where viewers spot he has a giant portrait of himself hanging on the wall. Later that season Rodgers expands on his tactical approach, with a nod to a well-known pudding brand. “When you’ve got the ball 65-70% of the time, it’s a football death for the other team. It’s death by football.” They finish seventh.2013-14 An emotional season ends with the Manager of the Year award, despite “Crystanbul” – losing a 3-0 lead, and the title, at Selhurst Park. “We just got carried away.”2014-15 Becomes the first Liverpool manager since the 1950s not to win a trophy after three seasons in charge. The season ends on a low: a 6-1 defeat to Stoke, and a sixth-place finish. “I’ve always said if the owners want me to go, I will go. But I still have a lot to offer them.” The owners back him.2015-16 Then they sack him, eight games into the new season. Insiders say Rodgers reacted to the news with “incredible dignity”, then offered to let his successor Jürgen Klopp move into his house. Rodgers: “I told them, ‘Listen, I’m moving to London for a bit, so Jürgen can move in’. And he did. I was never going to be bitter. I wanted him to succeed. I want the club to succeed.” Show news Quick guide Being: Brendan: the Liverpool years Thank you for your feedback. Photograph: Régis Duvignau/X00095 Jürgen Klopp has said Brendan Rodgers was not sacked by Liverpool for losing his “football brain” but possibly over a breakdown in his relationship with the Anfield hierarchy. Rodgers faces his former club on Saturday for the first time since his dismissal when Leicester aim to halt Liverpool’s imperious start to the Premier League season and run of 16 consecutive league wins. The 46-year-old was sacked in October 2015 having failed to correct a downturn that commenced the previous campaign. Klopp, who succeeded Rodgers as Liverpool manager four days later, believes his predecessor’s coaching acumen was never doubted at Anfield but a fracture behind the scenes may have contributed to his departure.The Liverpool manager said: “Brendan’s quality could not be the reason because I know how Liverpool were playing before and they were flying. We played them with Dortmund (in a pre-season friendly in August 2014). We were not in the best shape that day and we lost 4-0. They played really well and I already respected him as a manager.“For the public, when a manager gets the sack, they think he lost his football brain or something. That is not how it happened. Whatever it was I do not know, but it was not his quality as a coach. But of course, expectations and relationships, whatever, between who and who, if that does not work anymore the club has to make a decision. I know that could happen about me. If one day the club has to make a decision they would not say anything about me at that moment. Brendan reached the level he reached – Chelsea assistant, Swansea manager, Liverpool manager – very young, then going to Celtic and being very successful. Going to Leicester just proves what I thought. I am not a bit surprised.” Was this helpful? Share on LinkedIn Share on Twitter Share on Facebook
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Nantes 0 Paris Saint-Germain 1: Match-winner Di Maria not made to rue wild miss Dom Farrell Last updated 1 year ago 06:01 1/15/18 
Getty Images Paris Saint-Germain benefitted from a harsh offside call against Nantes, who finished their 1-0 defeat with a bizarre sending off. Angel Di Maria’s goal was enough for a 1-0 Paris Saint-Germain win at Nantes but he also had the misfortune of producing one of the misses of the season.Unai Emery’s men now sit 11 points clear at the top of the table and made light of Neymar’s absence due to a rib injury by finding an early opener.Edinson Cavani, back in the side following his unauthorised late return from holiday, laid on the chance for Di Maria, who made no mistake – although the same could not be said when he blazed off target from six yards. Article continues below Editors’ Picks Lyon treble & England heartbreak: The full story behind Lucy Bronze’s dramatic 2019 Liverpool v Man City is now the league’s biggest rivalry and the bitterness is growing Megan Rapinoe: Born & brilliant in the U.S.A. A Liverpool legend in the making: Behind Virgil van Dijk’s remarkable rise to world’s best player The ex-Real Madrid man and his colleagues were grateful when Emiliano Sala had a header ruled out. Two Nantes players were in offside positions but not involved when a seemingly onside Sala converted.Claudio Ranieri was entitled to feel aggrieved and his fifth-placed side finished the match with 10 men when Diego Carlos was sent off in bizarre circumstances.The defender collided with referee Tony Chapron as he charged forward on the break, with the official falling to the ground and appearing to kick out in frustration at Carlos, before regaining his footing and dishing out a second booking for apparent dissent.Both sides looked sharp and inventive during the opening stages but PSG drew first blood in the 12th minute, with Cavani making his presence felt on his comeback.The Uruguay striker aimed a precise pass in Di Maria’s direction and Kylian Mbappe’s exquisite dummy scrambled a Nantes defence appealing in vain for offside, leaving the Argentina midfielder to slot home his seventh goal of the season.47′ Your lone goal scorer of the night so far… Angel Di Maria #FCNPSG pic.twitter.com/YIKsfnkv6a— PSG English (@PSG_English) January 14, 2018Nantes were largely restricted to speculative attempts – none more so that Andrei Girotto’s bolt strike from the halfway line, with the execution falling some way short of the ambition.Di Maria was at the heart of most of PSG’s best work but he endured a moment to forget eight minutes before the interval.Marco Verratti, Mbappe and Adrien Rabiot all combined on a lightning break, only for Di Maria to inexplicably hit the top of the crossbar with the goal at his mercy.The 29-year-old was soon back in the thick of the action, knocking a cross down for Giovani Lo Celso, who had a rasping shot bravely blocked.Carlos flicked a searching cross from captain Leo Dubois just wide early in the second half as Nantes resumed with renewed ambition.Pinning PSG back did leave the hosts vulnerable on the counter-attack and Mbappe offered a demonstration of his blistering pace down the right in the 56th minute, only for Di Maria’s finish to let him down again – albeit less spectacularly.Sala thought he had drawn Nantes level with an hour played but his header from Dubois’ free-kick was ruled out for offside, even though he appeared to be level with Cavani.Emery elected to end Cavani’s reintroduction in the 68th minute, sending on Thomas Meunier for a touch more defensive insurance.Meunier’s fellow full-back Layvin Kurzawa smashed a volley wide in an attempt to make the point safe, while Ciprian Tatarusanu produced a superb reaction save to deny Mbappe the goal his efforts merited.Nantes’ final push for a share of the spoils was checked by Carlos being on the end of some rough justice. Rabiot then struck the post before boos rained down when the final whistle was sounded by Chapron – a man who had unsatisfactorily made himself the centre of attention.Key Opta stats:- PSG have won their last 13 encounters with Nantes in Ligue 1, their longest winning run against a current top-flight team.- PSG have only lost twice in their last 40 Ligue 1 games (W33, D5), on 30 April 2017 against Nice (1-3) and 2 December 2017 against Strasbourg (1-2).- PSG have scored 59 goals in Ligue 1 2017/18, highest tally at this stage in their history.- Angel Di Maria has been involved in seven goals in six games against Nantes in Ligue 1 (4 goals, 3 assists), more than against any other opponent. read more
The Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (ERASS) is a joint initiative of the Australian Sports Commission and State and Territory Departments of Sport and Recreation. The ERASS collects information about people aged 15 years and over regarding the exercise, recreation and sporting activities they undertook during the previous twelve months. The survey was first conducted in 2001 and this link contains the publication of results from the third ERASS survey, which was conducted in 2003. This publication presents information regarding the level and frequency of participation in organised physical activity, the type of participation in physical activity and trends in participation over time. Information is available for both organised and non-organised sport, for all States and Territories and for a variety of demographic variables. The survey will be conducted again in 2004, 2005 and 2006 furthering the time series and ensuring the ongoing monitoring of participation trends. If you are interested in finding statistics regarding touch football, scroll through the report for more information. ERASS SURVEY 2003 LINK