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When Shohei Ohtani hit the 50-50 milestone last season in Miami, many thought it was one of the greatest single performances in baseball history. Little did they know, Ohtani would go on to deliver an even more impressive feat in a series-clinching game that sent his Los Angeles Dodgers back to the World Series, just one year after winning the Commissioner’s Trophy.

On this episode of the Baseball Bar-B-Cast, Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman break down what might be the most impressive game ever played in baseball, in which Ohtani pitched six shutout innings, struck out ten, allowed zero earned runs, and hit three home runs en route to the Dodgers clinching the National League pennant. Then the guys talk about the Milwaukee Brewers’ unfortunate showing against a juggernaut like the Dodgers.

Also in this episode, Jake and Jordan preview the upcoming Game 7 that will decide the ALCS between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Seattle Mariners. Will the Jays ride the hot bat of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to their first World Series since 1993 or can the M’s win their first-ever American League title and finally reach the Fall Classic? The show wraps up with a discussion about College World Series champion manager Tony Vitello possibly joining the San Francisco Giants next season.

Photo by Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty Images

1:55 – The Opener: Ohtani’s amazing game

14:45 – Dodgers win the NL pennant

22:51 – Where we stand in the ALCS

38:39 – Game 7 preview

43:52 – We Need to Talk About: Tony V to MLB?

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

Check out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

The workday of Getafe pro Allan Nyom had barely begun on Sunday evening during the floodlit match in the Madrid suburb before it was already over.

Utterly bewildered, the defender looked at referee José Luis Munuera Montero as he showed him the red card. Nyom had only been on the pitch for a hand-timed 37 seconds before, well away from the ball (20 meters), he brought down Vinícius Júnior with a clothesline tackle.

What was presumably intended as a tactical foul turned out to be much more brutal in practice. The Brazilian also knew how to make the most of this gift. The referee had no other choice. Nyom’s action against the Real star took place right in front of both benches and, most importantly, in full view of the fourth official.

Allan Nyom came on in the 75th minute, and less than a minute later, he was sent off for fouling Vini Jr. 😅 pic.twitter.com/dCP9ybW6rL

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) October 19, 2025

Allan Nyom entered game and a few second later sent off after this !!! pic.twitter.com/paxsscbQYk

— Goals Xtra (@GoalsXtra) October 19, 2025

In fact, after being shown the red card, Nyom actually spent more time on the field than he did after being subbed in. That was also due to his disbelief. The 37-year-old was unaware of any wrongdoing. But after the first video replays of the incident, there was no doubt.

Things moved just as quickly after the restart, as Kylian Mbappé immediately took advantage of the fresh numerical superiority and scored the winning goal for the Royals just 20 seconds after play resumed. And Getafe? Within a single minute, they destroyed everything they had worked so hard for over 76 minutes—namely, to earn a point against the Spanish record champions.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.

📸 Angel Martinez - 2025 Getty Images

West Ham have lost three out of three at home - the same as Brentford have done away - so something has got to give here.

This could be 0-0 on the basis that both teams will just sit in their own half - I don't think either team will want the ball and both managers prefer to play on the counter-attack.

Nuno Espirito Santo has been brought in to keep the Hammers up, so he is not going to change the style of play that has brought him success.

I am not sure how that will go down with the West Ham fans - recent history suggests they are not going to like it, but they are going to have to get used to it.

Brentford boss Keith Andrews also likes to park the bus, so I don't see there being many chances at either end, or much ambition to score.

I can feel myself edging towards another 0-0 prediction but instead I am going to be optimistic and say there will be a goal... and a first West Ham win for Nuno.

He has already beaten Brentford once, as Forest manager on the opening weekend of the season, so this would be a very welcome double for him.

Sutton's prediction: 1-0

Read the full predictions and have your say here

Liverpool are closing in on signing an exciting teenage star after he narrowed down his options.

Richard Hughes is continuing to make moves even while the transfer window is closed. This time last year was when he made initial contact with the representatives of Milos Kerkez to gauge whether the Hungarian would be interested in a move to Anfield.

Months before making a move for Hugo Ekitike, Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz Hughes was also talking to their representatives and establishing contact.

Right now, he'll likely be making the same rounds. Who the players are on his agenda remains to be seen.

Undoubtedly, just like with all the aforementioned players, he will want to keep things under wraps for as long as possible.

The Reds like to move furtively and behind the shadows. That's why they have been able to operate so successfully over the years.

One area that they haven't quite managed to figure out how to navigate though is the South American market. For many years now, Liverpool have had a strong scouting presence in the region.

The club's scouts have been monitoring players like Rodrygo from a very young age and even came to signing the Brazilian for example.

Other players who Liverpool have kept on their radar includes Julian Alvarez, Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez. Some of these players were ultimately signed.

But none of them directly from South America.

It's that trend that Liverpool are now actively looking to break and they might just be closing in on their desired target.

According to TBR Football Liverpool are among a host of clubs very seriously interested in the services of Ian Subiabre.

And the site claims that the Liverpool target has made his decision. The report claims that he has decided to sign for a club in the Premier League.

It does not reveal who the club is, merely that he has communicated that he wants a move to England, which definitely increases Liverpool's chances of signing him.

© IMAGO - Ian Subiabre Liverpool

The 18-year-old attacker is a very interesting profile. He can play across the front three and he's very exciting to watch on the ball. Subiabre has quick feet and he can beat any opponent when he's in full flow.

Despite his young age he already has 19 senior appearances for River Plate, which would make it a lot easier for him attain a work-permit in the United Kingdom.

Obviously, Liverpool would be a massive step-up for the youngster (if he decides to join the Reds). However, he won't be required to come in and immediately hit the ground running.

He'd be given a chance to acclimatise first. Maybe even play a few U21 games before getting his opportunities in the first-team where Slot could probably add another option to his attacking depth.

Liverpool are struggling defensively and it is costing them points.

After eight league games last term, they had only conceded three goals - none from set-pieces - and had kept five clean sheets.

So far, they have shipped 11 goals, five of which have been from set-plays, and kept two clean sheets.

"It's a little bit disjointed," said ex-Premier League striker Troy Deeney, who agreed with fellow Match of the Day pundit Shay Given that the Reds' summer recruitment was top heavy.

The former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper said it is also the role of the forward players to defend because "you defend from the front", but that is difficult when Arne Slot does not yet know his first-choice line-up.

The fragility of Liverpool meant Manchester United's front three of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Mason Mount could use their pace to their advantage and cause Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate problems.

"It was probably one of the only Liverpool games that I've watched and thought Van Dijk looked rattled, especially in the first half," said former Crystal Palace striker Clinton Morrison on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast.

"It's because he is having to cover Milos Kerkez, who I think right now has to come out of the team. He is struggling and does not look like he can carry that Liverpool shirt at the moment.

"Amad [Diallo] and Mbeumo were causing him a lot of problems down that side.

"It was actually Konate who was bailing Van Dijk out, which doesn't happen often. He was the best defender for Liverpool in this game."

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Mark Robson was understandably a little nervous as he boarded the flight home from Madrid.

Sir Bobby Robson's son had a precious piece of hand luggage he needed to get back in one piece - a Ballon d'Or world coach of the year award.

The gong was donated by Jose Mourinho for a charity auction in the name of his late mentor in 2011.

It went on to help raise £26,000 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, which aims to find more effective ways to detect and treat cancer.

And the family have never forgotten the gesture.

"It was incredibly thoughtful of Jose to do that," Mark said. "It shows you what he is like deep down."

It also illustrates the lasting affection Mourinho has for Sir Bobby, who he shadowed as an interpreter and assistant for five years in the 1990s, as the Portuguese prepares to take his Benfica side to St James' Park.

Make no mistake, Mourinho will be desperate to record just his fourth win on Tyneside when his team face Newcastle United in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

But this will still be a occasion laced with emotion as he returns to "Mr Robson's home" and makes his way past the bust of the former Newcastle manager in the players' entrance.

So how was this close bond forged?

Much more than an interpreter

This was a time long before the 'Special One' moniker.

In fact, it was Sir Bobby, rather than Mourinho, who was mobbed as he made his way through arrivals in 1992.

The former England manager had just touched down in Lisbon to take charge of Sporting and club president Sousa Cintra was there to greet him.

However, the Portuguese did not speak English so he brought polyglot Mourinho along.

Mourinho had been recommended by Sporting assistant Manuel Fernandes, who had previously worked with the budding coach at Vitoria de Setubal and Estrela da Amadora.

It was a moment that changed the course of Mourinho's life.

Mourinho stood alongside Sir Bobby on the training ground. He helped get his message across to the players and in the media and even accompanied him in meetings with the hierarchy.

The pair were thrown together, with a 30-year age gap, but it was quickly apparent to Sporting defender Stan Valckx that they made a "good couple".

"During the team talk before the game, Bobby spoke for a few minutes to explain something and, then, Mourinho translated it into Portuguese," he said. "It took 10 minutes with many emotions in what he was saying.

"It was obvious that he was much more than an interpreter. He was very loyal and very ambitious. He was a big help for Bobby.

"Sometimes he did exercises on the pitch and videos like what an assistant coach does. In those years, 90% of the Portuguese players didn't speak English so there was a lot of work. Mourinho was very busy. Let's say it like that."

'His eyes and ears'

It was through Mourinho that Sir Bobby would later learn he had been sacked.

Sporting may have been top of the league in December 1993, but Cintra grabbed the intercom to make a dramatic announcement on the team flight back from Austria.

The club president announced in his native tongue that Sir Bobby would be dismissed following his side's elimination from the Uefa Cup at the hands of Casino Salzburg.

Yet it was not the end of Sir Bobby and Mourinho's partnership.

Sir Bobby consulted Mourinho when he was offered the Porto job a year or so later and, tellingly, took his assistant with him.

"If something was said behind dad's back, Jose was watching," Mark Robson said.

"He was his eyes and ears, and a sounding board. You need a right-hand [man] in those environments and [Mourinho] was that man.

"Because he was such a strong character - even at that age - he could handle it and do it quietly and efficiently.

"If there were any disruptors, Jose would spot them and dad could deal with it. It obviously worked well - the proof is in the pudding."

Sir Bobby went on to win five trophies at Porto, including two league titles, before Barcelona came calling in 1996.

And there was one particular member of staff he was determined to take with him.

'I learned that love from Mr Robson'

Those at the top at Barcelona initially wanted someone with club connections to be Sir Bobby's assistant, but he insisted it had to be Mourinho.

For good reason.

Sir Bobby was walking into a divided club following the departure of legendary manager Johan Cruyff and needed someone he trusted implicitly, who could help get his message across in another foreign language.

By this stage, Mourinho's role had long since evolved.

He helped out on the training ground. He produced scouting dossiers on the opposition that Sir Bobby rated as the best he had ever seen. Crucially, he was used to dealing with international players.

In a testing environment, the pair complemented each other once again as midfielder Guillermo Amor explained.

"They managed to create a good atmosphere and make a very strong team," he said.

"Jose had more contact with the players due to his fluency in the language and his age, which was very similar to ours.

"He had great respect for Bobby and Bobby had great faith in everything Jose could do on the field and in the locker room."

Sir Bobby went on to win the European Cup Winners' Cup, the Copa Del Rey and the Spanish Cup in what proved to be his final season with Mourinho before the Barcelona manager was moved upstairs and replaced by Louis van Gaal.

Mourinho told Sir Bobby he wanted to leave out of loyalty but his mentor convinced him to stay, having already briefed van Gaal about the merits of keeping his assistant.

Had Mourinho not spent three further three years at the Nou Camp under van Gaal, the Portuguese could well have followed Sir Bobby to Newcastle in 1999.

Instead he went it alone - but Sir Bobby's influence lives on.

To this day, Mourinho cherishes those moments the pair's families shared in Sitges, the meals Sir Bobby never let him pay for and the lessons he taught him about life.

It is why the 62-year-old considers himself a "little Magpie".

"The club up there know how much love and respect I have for them," he told CBS earlier this month. "I learned that love from Mr Robson."

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TORONTO — Game 7 never gets old. Nor does it ever fail to humble even the greatest players to grace the October stage.

Max Scherzer is about to embark on his 11^th winner-take-all game in his storied major league career, and in the moments after his Toronto Blue Jays kept their season alive with a 6-2 victory over the Seattle Mariners in Game 6 of the American League Championship Series, his mental record book was whirring, taking him back to his playoff debut as a 26-year-old all the way through the two World Series championships he’s netted in the past six years.

“God, another one,” says Scherzer, stomping a bit and shaking his head, as is his wont. “I’m just walking around, going through all my Game 7s, my Game 5s, elimination games, last day, all these moments and you remember all of them.

“To get another one? My gosh. These are just so special, so hard to get to, that to get another crack at it – this is what you live for.”

Scherzer kept private what he plans to impart to his mates, but it will be experience borne of seven Division Series Game 5s, one wild card game, an ALCS Game 7 and of course, Game 7 of the 2019 World Series, when Scherzer started the clincher for the Washington Nationals two days after getting scratched from a start due to a debilitating neck malady.

And that’s exactly the sort of sacrifice the Mariners and Blue Jays expect up and down the roster in what should be a titillating evening of baseball at Rogers Centre.

Let’s take a peek inside the latest installment of baseball’s ultimate win-or-go-home drama:

Who’s available? Everybody

In the hours between the Blue Jays’ crushing Game 5 loss to Seattle and their Game 6 revival, closer Jeff Hoffman was chatting with his wife about what might be expected of him the next two nights.

“We were talking about the potential of me throwing multiple innings today, or maybe tomorrow, or maybe both. Who knows what it will call for?” says Hoffman, who in fact threw two near-perfect innings in Game 6, striking out four of the seven batters he faced.

“She asked me, ‘Are you good to do that?’ And it’s like, there’s no choice. You’re good to do it. If that’s what the team needs you to do, you go out and do it and worry about tomorrow the next day.”

With that in mind, both clubs are in decent shape. The Blue Jays did burn Hoffman for two innings and set-up man Louis Varland for four outs, but stayed away from fireballing Seranthony Dominguez, who should be available for an extended stint in Game 7.

The Mariners used top set-up man Matt Brash for an inning and Eduard Bazardo for two. But lefty Gabe Speier got a needed night off and closer Andres Muñoz did not pitch. He will almost certainly be called upon for multiple innings if the Mariners hold a late lead or – egad! – the game goes extra innings.

In short: Relievers are already built to pitch until their arms come off – and both units are in good shape.

All hands on deck

There’s nothing that makes the heart jump in an elimination game than a starter warming up in the bullpen. And both Blue Jays starter Shane Bieber and Mariners counterpart George Kirby will have a troika of veterans behind them.

Bryce Miller, Bryan Woo and Luis Castillo will all be available behind Kirby, who gave up eight runs in his Game 3 start.

As for the Blue Jays, Scherzer, Kevin Gausman and Chris Bassitt are all available to provide length if Bieber hits the wall early. Or, to put out a fire as needed.  

“If you like postseason baseball, this is what it’s all about,” says Gausman. “You might see Max Scherzer in the fifth inning. You might see me later in the game. This is kind of what it is.

“As a player, this is what we want. We’ve all been grinding since Feb. 1^st, even before then, so now we win one game, we’re going to the World Series.”

Managerial mindsets

Game 6 was a balm for Blue Jays manager John Schneider, whose decision to deploy inconsistent lefty Brendon Little in Game 5 blew up and put his club in a win-or-go-home stance.

Now, the mental edge may have shifted, what with the Blue Jays having already stared down their mortality.

Heck, Schneider himself sounds like a dude who just got a stay of execution.

“It's pretty frickin' cool that we are where we are. I'm not going to lie,” he said after Game 6. “You got to keep your foot on the gas and get ready for tomorrow.

This is what we sign up for. Whenever you can play for Game 7 to go to the World Series, it sounds kind of cool to say it, you know. But this is why we sacrifice everything. It's why players sacrifice everything.

“This team, this group of men, are special. You never know where the journey's going lead. It leads to a Game 7 in the ALCS and that's frickin' awesome.

“Again, man, when spring training starts, and you say, hey, you got one game to win to go to the World Series, you take that every single time.”

For the record, that’s two “frickins” and one “cool” and “awesome” apiece.

How about you, Seattle manager Dan Wilson?

“So we'll make our adjustments offensively tomorrow, and we'll be ready to go Game 7,” he said after a night the club grounded into double plays in the third, fourth and fifth innings.

“I mean, this is the time to make those adjustments and baseball's a game of adjustments, and they will be able to do that tomorrow night and ready to go.”

Vibe check? Advantage, Blue Jays.

Heavy history

Both clubs were born in 1977. Yet the Mariners have never played in a Game 7.

Toronto has a more storied history, with consecutive World Series titles in 1992 and ’93. Yet it’s been 40 years since they’ve played a Game 7, when they blew a 3-1 lead to the Kansas City Royals in the 1985 ALCS.

The ALCS has been an unkind hurdle to both clubs the past quarter-century. Toronto lost in six games to Kansas City in 2015 and five games to Cleveland in 2016, while Seattle succumbed to the New York Yankees in 2000 and 2001.

They’d never been one game away from a World Series in their history, until Eugenio Suárez’s grand slam won them Game 5. They’re still waiting, and now must contend with what could be an evenly-matched and excruciating Game 7 for both squads.

Prediction: Blue Jays 6, Mariners 4

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mariners-Blue Jays Game 7 could be all-time MLB classic

Lewis Hamilton says that Ferrari’s performance at the Austin Grand Prix was ‘an amazing result’ after he and teammates Charles Leclerc finished fourth and third respectively.

Despite underperforming in Saturday’s sprint race, the Prancing Horse found good pace during the Grand Prix with Hamilton moving up to fourth during the race on Sunday having overtaken former Mercedes teammate George Russell.

Leclerec battled against McLaren’s Lando Norris but couldn’t make it past the title challenger and instead had to settle for third place though he was awarded driver of the day for his efforts.

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen claimed victory and added more points to his sprint race win meaning he is only 40 points behind drivers’ championship leader Oscar Piastri in his pursuit of a fifth world title.

“Yeah, a good result - an amazing result for the team,” Hamilton mused following the race.

“Third and fourth, good points. It’s great to finish ahead of the Mercedes team, to get those points and even ahead of a McLaren. Definitely a positive.

“Going forwards, even after a bad start. Lots and lots of positives to take from it and naturally I want to be further up but we’re definitely on the right path.”

Hamilton was then asked whether he had any regrets over Ferrari’s strategy to send Leclerc out on soft tyres first but the 40-year-old decided to look at the overall positives of Ferrari’s gameplan.

“I think it was clearly the quickest strategy in the end,” he explained. “Before Charles’ stop I was right with him but to come out 10 seconds behind was far too big a deficit for me to try and catch and I couldn’t close the gap at all.

“That was a bit unfortunate but considering we haven’t been upgrading the car for us to be kind of in the fight shows that the team has done a great job this weekend. We’re so close but I’ve not got that podium and I’ll keep trying.”

Carlos Sainz earns grid penalty following Kimi Antonelli clash originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Carlos Sainz was the only driver not to see the chequered flag during Sunday's United States Grand Prix, at The Circuit Of The Americas, after he suffered terminal race damage following a collision with Kimi Antonelli's Mercedes.

Duelling through the tight and twisty beginning of the final sector, the Spaniard chanced a move down the inside of turn 15, but clipped the Silver Arrow's left rear tyre and sent it into a spin.

Sainz was out in an instant, with damage to his right front tyre, and he parked his Williams car between the final two corners of the track, while Antonelli continued on to finish outside of the top ten.

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In reviewing the incident, the stewards ruled that Sainz was responsible for the clash: "Car 55 attempted an inside overtake on Car 12 at Turn 15 and a collision between the two cars occurred at the apex.

"The driver of Car 55 maintained that he had expected the driver of Car 12 to leave him space at the apex but Car 12 turned in early and Car 55 locked brakes when it became clear that a collision was unavoidable.

"At no point prior to the apex was the front axle of Car 55 alongside or ahead of the mirror of Car 12. Therefore, according to the Driving Standards Guidelines, Car 55 had not earned a right to be left space at the apex."

As a result, and with not being able to serve the penalty during the race, Sainz ('Car 12') was slapped with a five-place grid penalty for this weekend's Mexico City Grand Prix instead, the scene of his latest F1 triumph, which he seized in 2024. 

Carlos Sainz is OUT after making contact with Kimi Antonelli! 💥

Here's what happened... 👇#F1#USGPpic.twitter.com/OIIUH031CO

— Formula 1 (@F1) October 19, 2025

For the Spaniard, it was hardly a disastrous weekend given that he finished third during Saturday's sprint and demonstrated his underlying pace once more. But in battling with a Mercedes so early on in the race, for seventh place, the resulting retirement represents another missed opportunity that has dominated much of his 2025 campaign. 

On his clash, Sainz told williamsf1.com: "It's a shame to end the race that way as the car had great pace today. I had done a similar move on Bearman some laps before, so I tried that inside line with Antonelli into turn 15. 

"He opened the line and then closed the door more abruptly than what I was expecting, I tried to react by slamming on the brakes to avoid contact but it was too late and we touched.

"I was behind so I accept my part of fault and ultimately it's a shame as it cost the race for both of us. We were quick, so it hurts not to convert it into more points."

Formula 1 news & related links

• Alpine release social media statement after team orders incident

• Verstappen optimistic of winning championship following US GP win

• Piastri insists that 'mentality hasn't changed' after points lead cut

How to watch Canadiens vs. Sabres today: Channel, time, schedule, live stream for Monday Night Hockey originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

After dropping the first three games of the 2025-26 season, the Sabres are back on track with two consecutive victories.

They defeated the Senators, 8-4, and shut out the two-time reigning champion Panthers, 3-0. This momentum could carry over into another tough matchup Monday night.

Buffalo will cross the border and play the Montreal Canadiens on Monday Night Hockey. The Canadiens are 4-2 having won four straight prior to Saturday's loss to the Rangers.

Montreal allowed three goals in the third period, which ended its win streak amid its home stand. This upcoming game against Buffalo marks the last home game for the Canadiens until November.

The Sporting News has all the details on how to watch the Canadiens vs. Sabres today.

How to watch Canadiens vs. Sabres today

• TV channel: N/A
• Live stream:Amazon Prime Video

The Canadiens vs. Sabres matchup won't be available on traditional TV broadcasts.

Fans looking to watch the action can tune in on Amazon Prime Video.

Canadiens vs. Sabres start time

• Date: Monday, Oct. 20
• Time: 7:30 p.m. ET

Puck drop for the Canadiens vs. Sabres game is at 7:30 p.m. ET on Monday, Oct. 20. The game will take place at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec.

Canadiens vs. Sabres radio station

• Radio station:SiriusXM channel 220

Fans can tune into the Canadiens vs. Sabres matchup live on SiriusXM channel 220 (Canadiens).

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Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes continues to impress in a red shirt.

Summer rumours

The United captain was one of the very few players who could hold his head high after last season’s abysmal showing as a collective.

The Portugal international had an impressive 19 goals and 19 assists in all competitions last year.

Nonetheless, he was close to joining the Saudi Arabian league in the summer but finally decided to stay at Old Trafford.

Despite missing a couple of penalties, Fernandes has continued to show his worth to the team with two goals and one assist in this campaign.

Assist yesterday

Despite playing in a deeper central midfield role, Fernandes has continued to have an impact higher up the pitch.

It was his world-class assist that provided Harry Maguire with the chance to snatch a late winner at Anfield versus Liverpool.

When Bryan Mbeumo’s shot was blocked he expertly lofted the ball back into the box first time, not giving the Liverpool defence any time to settle and Maguire did the rest with a trademark header.

Climbing up the leaderboard

Fernandes already bagged a crucial goal last month as he scored his 100th for the club in the 2-1 win over Chelsea.

His assist versus Liverpool now means that “Bruno Fernandes has now provided the fifth-most assists for Man United in Premier League history.”

Fernandes was tied on 51 with Eric Cantona but he has now overtaken the French legend.

In addition, “only Ryan Giggs, Wayne Rooney, David Beckham and Paul Scholes have more.”

Scholes has 55 assists, so Fernandes will certainly be looking to overtake the legendary midfielder this season.

He has some going if he is to ever break Ryan Giggs’ record of a ridiculous 163 assists.

What makes Fernandes’ efforts even more impressive is that he has largely played in an average team for United’s standards and in a side who have failed to take their chances.

Bruno Fernandes has now provided the fifth-most assists for Man United in Premier League history (52)

Only Ryan Giggs, Wayne Rooney, David Beckham and Paul Scholes have more 🪄 pic.twitter.com/Gij4sQptko

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) October 19, 2025

Featured image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images

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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has offered an update on the fitness of Nico O’Reilly following his injury sustained against Everton at the weekend.

The 20-year-old has been one of the standout young figures in Guardiola’s squad this season, continuing his rapid rise from academy prospect to first-team regular, and was handed another opportunity to impress during Saturday’s Premier League clash against David Moyes’ side at the Etihad Stadium.

However, concern arose late in the match – which resulted in a 2-0 win for City – when O’Reilly picked up an issue, prompting Pep Guardiola and his coaching staff to withdraw the midfielder in the closing minutes.

The England international has been a consistent performer this season, showcasing his composure, tactical awareness, and adaptability – traits that have earned him significant praise from Guardiola and his teammates alike, as well as a first call-up to Thomas Tuchel’s set-up.

Having only recently signed a new and improved five-year contract keeping him at the club until the summer of 2030, Manchester City have made clear their long-term belief in Nico O’Reilly’s potential and growing first-team influence.

Speaking in the aftermath of City’s 2-0 win over David Moyes’ Everton on Saturday afternoon, Pep Guardiola was quizzed on the injury that had forced O’Reilly off the pitch in the closing exchanges of the contest.

“I think it’s a knock,” Guardiola told reporters from the Etihad Stadium. He continued, “We will see but I don’t think it will be dangerous.”

Pep Guardiola’s words will come as a relief to City fans, who have already seen several key players struggle with fitness concerns during a demanding fixture schedule. O’Reilly’s ability to play in multiple positions has made him an invaluable option in the tactical system, and any spell on the sidelines would have been a setback.

With Manchester City’s calendar intensifying ahead of upcoming fixtures in the Premier League, Champions League, and Carabao Cup, Nico O’Reilly’s availability will be closely monitored by the club’s medical team in the coming days.

Early indications, however, suggest he could recover swiftly and be in contention for selection in Manchester City’s next outing which comes in the form of a trip to Spain to take on Villarreal on matchday three of European competition.

Harry Maguire's late header secured Manchester United's first win at Anfield in nearly a decade and inflicted Liverpool's fourth successive defeat.

It was a statement victory for Ruben Amorim's side against their biggest rivals and the manager described it as "the biggest win in my time at Manchester United".

Monday's newspaper back pages convey the magnitude of the result, which also gave United their first consecutive Premier League wins under the Portuguese.

"Amorim has come under a lot of pressure, but now it is back-to-back wins and they have beaten Liverpool," said Clinton Morrison on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast. "It's a big win for United and it puts them right up there in the league.

"United's front three had a lot of pace. They wanted to cause Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate problems, and they did. It was probably one of the only games that I thought Van Dijk looked rattled in the first half.

"That is because United's gameplan worked brilliantly. They were defending in their numbers and good on the counter-attack.

"They always turn up against the big teams - we saw this last season - so now they need to turn up against Brighton next week.

"Whether they can remains a big question mark."

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Two late red cards for Getafe helped Real Madrid secure a 1-0 win at Coliseum Alfonso Perez last night in a game that quite easily could have ended in a draw.

Los Blancos struggled to break through the hosts’ rearguard, and unsurprisingly so given the tight defensive lines and low block.

Kylian Mbappe’s goal in the 80th minute, however, proved to be the difference between the two teams as Los Blancos reclaimed the pole position in La Liga ahead of the weekend’s Clásico.

Alonso’s press conference

Speaking to the media after the gruelling fixture, Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso admitted that the game turned out to be far more complicated than they had hoped for and praised his team for overcoming the hurdle.

“It was a tough, demanding match. You have to know how to compete and be prepared for a match that wasn’t going to be the most attractive.”

“The team fronted up and knew their jobs. We were focused and did what we had to do. We’re going into next week with good energy,” he added.

Speaking on how Vinicius Jr. had a big role to play on the night after coming on in the 55th minute, Alonso said,

“Vini Jr. had a big impact. We talked this morning about how he could be important from the start or later on. He caused problems for the opposition and drew cards from them.”

“It’s important for everyone to know that they can be important whatever their role, and today Vini Jr. was important,” he added.

While Real Madrid did not take the lead for long, the match-winning strike eventually came from the usual suspect – Kylian Mbappe – who continues his stunning season in front of goal.

“We’re very pleased with how Kylian is doing. He’s been decisive with his goals and his involvement.”

“Goals give you points, but we need everyone because a lot is going on in the background,” he added.

Real Madrid came away with a 1-0 win vs Getafe. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Arda Guler started on the bench on the night but came on past the hour mark and went on to make a tangible difference in terms of creativity. The manager praised the young Turkish star for his cameo.

“Arda also had a good impact. We found him between the lines and he found Kylian well there. The goal was crucial because there were saves, and it was difficult.”

“Arda and Bellingham can play in both positions. They have different profiles. They can alternate and when Arda turns and makes a pass in the second line, he is decisive,” he added on the battle between Guler and Bellingham.

The manager also provided an update on the situations of Thibaut Courtois and David Alaba who both showed signs of discomfort during the game.

“I think Courtois is fine and Alaba’s calf was tightening up and we didn’t want to take any risks. We’ll assess him further tomorrow.”

Giving his two cents on Eduardo Camavinga’s performance against Getafe given that it was his first start for the club after coming back from injury, the coach said,

“I really liked him and in the first half, we created the mismatch on the left wing. We needed more in the final third.”

“On this pitch, you have to adjust well to the second ball, and they only created danger from set pieces. He gave a very complete performance,” he added.

Despite being inflicted with a numerical inferiority, Getafe churned up a massive chance in the dying minutes of the game and only a Courtois special save saw Real Madrid retain three points.

“These are situations that shouldn’t happen with nine men. We didn’t close down well and we didn’t adjust our marking. Courtois was crucial at the end,” the manager said on the situation.

“He did his job and we’re leaving with three points, which is what we wanted. It’s over now, I’ve got three points and tomorrow I’ll start thinking about the next game,” he added.

Finally, Alonso spoke on the massive week coming up, especially with El Clasico just a week away and Juventus midweek.

“I’m still thinking about today’s intense match. We had to roll up our sleeves. It wasn’t the most beautiful game to play or watch, but from tomorrow we’ll start thinking about Juve.”

Source: Real Madrid website

British number three Katie Boulter's poor run of form continued with a straight-sets loss to world number 44 Eva Lys in the first round of the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo.

Boulter, 29, was beaten 6-2 6-1 in just one hour and 14 minutes by the 23-year-old German.

She was the only British player in the main draw after Emma Raducanu withdrew, ending her season early through illness.

The Briton was only able to win 50% of the points on her first serve and was broken five times by Lys.

This latest defeat caps a disappointing run of form, which has seen the former world number 29 unable to progress beyond the second round of a tournament since the Nottingham Open in June.

It also comes five days after the Briton lost in straight sets in the second round of the Japan Open by world number 51 Sorana Cirstea.

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Florida State facing mounting $100M decision after Virginia, Miami, Stanford, Pitt blunders originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Florida State Seminoles started their season with a massive win over the Alabama Crimson Tide. After a 3-0 start, everything seemed to be trending in the right direction until their first loss of the year on the road against Virginia. That defeat marked the beginning of a disastrous stretch of games.

“For the second time this year, Mike Norvell and Florida State football were at the center of it — though on the opposite end. The No. 8-ranked Seminoles, ahead of a massive Week 6 game against No. 6-ranked Miami, went on the road to Virginia for a Friday night game and left with their first blemish on the season,” USA Today’s Zac Al-Khateeb wrote.

Since that loss, Florida State hasn’t been playing well at all. Following their most recent game on Saturday, the Seminoles have now dropped four straight. Head coach Mike Norvell gave what felt like a last plea during his press conference.

“I'm pouring everything I have into this university with every bit of the work, the focus, the absolute edge and urgency to get this better," Norvell said. "And at the end of the day, it's about the on-the-field results, and we've come up short and we've not done it.”

With this being the second consecutive season of disappointing play, Florida State may be forced to make a difficult decision. What began as a promising season has quickly unraveled, and it’s becoming increasingly likely that the Seminoles could move on from Norvell. If that happens, the buyout and hiring costs are expected to total in the six-figure range.

“Sources tell Pete Nakos momentum continues to build from Florida State decision makers to move on from Mike Norvell. The all-in cost to fire Norvell/his staff and make the next hire is in the $100M range,” On3 posted.

That would be a massive price for Florida State, making their next coaching hire crucial. If they miss on the next head coach, it could cost the program even more in the long run.

The Seminoles are deeply disappointed after such a strong start. Norvell is walking on thin ice, and he knows his career at Florida State may be nearing its end. This situation could get ugly in Tallahassee very soon.

The Indianapolis Colts firmly established themselves as genuine contenders on another pulsating NFL Sunday, while the Denver Broncos staged the mother of all comebacks.

The Colts lead the league but challengers are coming from all angles, with the New England Patriots continuing their resurgence and the Kansas City Chiefs firmly back in business.

Jalen Hurts finally got the Philadelphia Eagles offence moving, the Green Bay Packers showed their battling qualities and the Dallas Cowboys are still the league's gunslingers.

• NFL week seven - as it happened
• Rams run riot at Wembley

Why the Colts are genuine contenders

There's no denying the Colts are the real deal now as they top the NFL at 6-1 after dismantling the Chargers 38-24 in LA, with Daniel Jones banishing doubts about his flying start to the season being a flash in the pan.

Running back Jonathan Taylor is a touchdown machine - scoring his third hat-trick of the season to take his total to 11 in seven games.

That star power has been key in Indianapolis being top scorers in the NFL with more than 33 points a game - and their key strength is just how clinical they are in possession.

They entered the game with the best points per drive stats in the league and against the Chargers scored five touchdowns and a field goal with their nine possessions.

When they don't have the ball they're the third-best at forcing turnovers (11) and when they have it they rarely give it away and almost always score.

The defence gives away plenty of yards but at 20 points a game is seventh best, and it all combines for a growing juggernaut that really does look tough to stop.

Nix leads epic Denver comeback

No doubting the game of the week, with Bo Nix going bananas and leading the Denver Broncos to a mind-boggling 33-32 win over the plucky, and unlucky, New York Giants.

Being shutout 19-0 after three quarters, Nix became the first quarterback to have two passing and two rushing touchdowns in a fourth quarter, with Denver's 33-point blitz the second-best in history.

Even when Nix somehow got Denver in front, impressive Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart generated a response with his fourth total touchdown of the game seemingly winning it with just 37 seconds left.

That was enough time for Nix to lead a field goal drive, though, and get Denver out of jail again - but they'll have to do better if they're to go far this season.

Eagles and Chiefs let it fly

The Super Bowl champions came roaring back after consecutive losses with Hurts finally opening up his shoulders to throw for 326 yards, three touchdowns and a perfect passer rating of 158.3 as the Eagles beat the Vikings 28-22.

Hurts hasn't been on the same page as his receivers of late, but DeVonta Smith had a career-best 183 yards and a score while AJ Brown caught two touchdowns in a freewheeling display Eagles fans have been crying out for.

There's usually a more conservative approach from Philadelphia, but with Hurts throwing for the most yards on 20-yard throws (215) in his career, it could be a sign that they're taking the handbrake off.

Patrick Mahomes was also letting the ball fly in his 93rd regular-season victory, as returning receiver Rashee Rice sparked a 31-0 shutout of the rather woeful Las Vegas Raiders.

Much bigger tests are to come but it's now four wins in five for the 4-3 Chiefs after a sticky start, averaging 31.5 points a game over the past four and with only the Colts more clinical in possession.

The Chiefs are definitely on the up.

Who are the NFL contenders and pretenders?

Drake Maye will play his way into MVP contention if he continues with such poise and accuracy for the Patriots.

He set a team record with a 91.3% completion rate in their win over the Titans and, when you consider it's a team that had Tom Brady at quarterback for two decades, that's quite an achievement in just his second season.

The Pats are 5-2 and have won all four away games, including the past three, even though this latest one was against the Titans.

Green Bay edged Arizona 27-23 but it was far from convincing - Micah Parsons had three sacks which proved decisive but Cards back-up quarterback Jacoby Brissett still got some joy against the Packers defence.

They also looked a bit toothless on offence whenever Josh Jacobs wasn't on the field, so key to their progress is keeping their star running back fit moving forward.

There was a fourth straight game with three touchdowns for Dak Prescott as the Dallas Cowboys again showed their attacking prowess to beat a struggling Washington, who lost Jayden Daniels with a hamstring injury.

That's a massive worry for the Commanders, who had no answer to CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens and Javonte Williams who combined for 308 yards and two scores.

At 3-3 Dallas could easily go on a run and with their attack could beat anyone, but they've still got a lot to prove on defence.

Only the Patriots can match Chicago's four-win streak after the Bears overcame a hot-and-cold Caleb Williams to beat the struggling Saints.

The Bears ran for 222 yards and two scores while the defence leads the league with 16 turnovers, after three interceptions and a fumble by Spencer Rattler - and that combination can take you a long way in the NFL.

But they'll want more from Williams.

The San Francisco 49ers have their injury problems but as long as they've got Christian McCaffrey they've got a chance.

The Niners are now 5-2 after McCaffrey had 201 total yards and two touchdowns to beat the Atlanta Falcons 20-10.

Hapless Miami proved the antidote to Cleveland's problems, as the Browns ran up 31 points to beat the Dolphins - having previously not managed more than 17 in a game.

And finally the New York Jets, who benched Justin Fields during their 13-6 defeat by Carolina, have dropped to 0-7 for just the third time in their history.

NFL week seven scores & highlights

• Los Angeles Rams 35-7 Jacksonville Jaguars
• New Orleans Saints 14-26 Chicago Bears
• Miami Dolphins 6-31 Cleveland Browns
• New England Patriots 31-13 Tennessee Titans
• Las Vegas Raiders 0-31 Kansas City Chiefs
• Philadelphia Eagles 28-22 Minnesota Vikings
• Carolina Panthers 13-6 New York Jets
• New York Giants 32-33 Denver Broncos
• Indianapolis Colts 38-24 Los Angeles Chargers
• Washington Commanders 22-44 Dallas Cowboys
• Green Bay Packers 27-23 Arizona Cardinals
• Atlanta Falcons 10-20 San Francisco 49ers

It wasn't perfect, but the San Francisco 49ers grabbed a 20-10 win over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday night at Levi's Stadium.

Lack of perfection is probably going to define the 49ers' season as they try to overcome injuries to some of their best players, but Sunday's showing was more evidence that despite their various health-related calamities the 49ers are a team to be reckoned with in the NFC. At 5-2, they remain atop the NFC West and in third place overall in the conference.

Here are eight takeaways from the 49ers' fifth win of the season:

49ers get vintage Christian McCaffrey game

It took seven weeks, but McCaffrey finally looked like himself again. The 49ers' superstar running back was explosive, forced some missed tackles, and led the offense in just about every category. He was their leading rusher with a season-high 129 yards. He also scored their only two touchdowns, and he led the club with seven receptions and 72 receiving yards. McCaffrey has been helping the 49ers keep their heads above water all year, but Sunday night he helped them look more like a sustainable offense than one simply piecing together enough plays to win.

George Kittle's return makes major impact

It's impossible to overstate how much Kittle being back helped the 49ers' run game. Kittle had no catches, but this stat from Next Gen Stats tells the entire story of what Kittle means to San Francisco's offense.

George Kittle did not record a catch against the Falcons, but his impact was felt in the run game:

🔹 Kittle on-field: 28 carries, 151 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1.4 avg. yards before contact
🔹 Kittle off-field: 6 carries, 12 yards, -2.1 avg. yards before contact#ATLvsSF | #FTTB

— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) October 20, 2025

Mac Jones's two big throws shine on slow night

With the ground game working, the 49ers didn't need much from their backup QB. Jones went 17-of-26 for 152 yards and one interception. The turnover came off a tipped pass from WR Jauan Jennings who probably should've made the catch. However, Jones had two crucial plays Sunday night. The first one came before the 49ers' first touchdown in the second quarter. On a third-and-4, Jones was pressured and rolled left before flipping a throw over the top of four defenders to McCaffrey who was taken down at the 1-yard line. McCaffrey scored on the next play.

Later in the red zone Jones found McCaffrey on a third-and-13 where the running back slipped in behind a linebacker and in front of a defensive back to haul in Jones's throw at the 4-yard line. McCaffrey scored one play later.

Those two third-down conversions were big-time plays from the backup QB on a night where they offense didn't ask him to carry the load.

Fred Warner's replacement Tatum Bethune steps up

Bethune, a seventh-round pick in the 2024 draft, looked ready for a tough matchup against Atlanta. He was all over the field for the 49ers and led the way with 10 tackles. He also had a quarterback pressure on the Falcons' final drive. Bethune briefly left the game in the first quarter and was mum on the issue after the game while speaking with NBC reporter Melissa Starks. It wasn't perfect from Bethune, who got out of position a couple of times, but it was an impressive outing nonetheless that gives some hope for the 49ers defense even without Warner in the middle of the front seven.

49ers CB Chase Lucas has another massive play

Lucas was a preseason star for San Francisco after spending last year on their practice squad. His play was enough to earn a roster spot, and having him has helped the 49ers secure two wins this season. He was the first player in the mix to stop Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams on the game-ending fourth-down play at SoFi Stadium. Then Sunday night with 8:20 to go he broke up a fourth-and-1 pass intended for Falcons WR Drake London. The 49ers took over at their own 35 and went 65 yards to score the game-winning touchdown. If Lucas doesn't come up with a pass breakup on that fourth down, Sunday's game may have gone very different for San Francisco.

Bryce Huff takes over

The 49ers have struggled to find its pass rush with no Nick Bosa on the field. Huff answered the call Sunday night with two quarterback hits, 1.0 sacks, a tackle for loss and a forced fumble. He was a nightmare for the Falcons offensive line on Atlanta's final drive. They threw multiple blockers at him and tried leaving him one-on-one and he was in the backfield on virtually every snap. San Francisco's defense still needs a more consistent pass rush, but being able to get home in obvious passing situations is a good start.

Eddy Pineiro stays perfect

Pineiro connected on both of his field goal tries, one from 55 yards out and another from 43 yards out, to bring his total with the 49ers to a perfect 17-for-17. This is the kicker Kyle Shanahan has been waiting for.

49ers depth chart at safety gets a shuffle

It appears the 49ers are having an in-season competition at safety. Rookie Marques Sigle and Ji'Ayir Brown started at the two safety spots. Jason Pinnock, who opened the season as a starter, also got some run. Malik Mustapha saw action as well as the club tries to figure out its best pairing in the back end of the secondary. More importantly, finding the top pairing in the back of the secondary frees up other players on the depth chart to work as chess pieces in potential wrinkles from defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.

More 49ers: Kyle Shanahan provides postgame injury updates on 2 starters after win vs. Falcons

This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 8 49ers vs. Falcons game takeaways that stood out

It’s only been less than a month since Nuno Espirito Santo replaced Graham Potter as West Ham United manager, but the Portuguese tactician will be keen to finally get off the mark later today.

The Hammers are set for a crunch capital derby against their western counterparts, Brentford, desperate to end an embarrassing four-game winless streak (D1, L3).

So far, Nuno has managed to pick up a point from his opening two games at West Ham after taking on Everton and early-season pacesetters Arsenal.

However, he’d be keen to make a statement in his first home game as West Ham manager, and Brentford’s visit might be the perfect chance to flip the script.

The Hammers are still looking for their second Premier League win since thrashing Nottingham Forest 3-0 at City Ground at the end of August.

How West Ham could line up

Despite going into the international break on the back foot, Nuno will likely make just one change to the team that lost 2-0 to Arsenal.

That means Monday’s visitors can expect a familiar back five with Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Konstantinos Mavropanos, Max Kilman, and El Hadji Malick Diouf lining up ahead of Alphonse Areola.

Nuno will be able to count on Tomas Soucek once again after the Czech international midfielder served a three-match ban for picking up a straight red card against Tottenham Hotspur.

However, he has been out of the loop for over a month, so he could start on the bench, giving Nuno a chance to stick with his midfield pairing of Mateus Fernandes and Soungoutou Magassa.

The Hammers have been lacking flair and dynamism in the middle of the park, but Fernandes and Magassa have the ability to run the show.

Lucas Paqueta has been a standout performer for West Ham so far and should retain his place in the number 10 role, while skipper Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville line up on the flanks.

The only change to the starting line-up will come at the top end of the pitch with Callum Wilson poised to step in for the injured Niclas Fullkrug.

McLaren has seen much calmer days this Formula 1 season. But Zak Brown’s empire is now showing cracks on all fronts.

The team did wrap up the constructors’ championship early in Singapore, and Brown is understandably basking in the glow of that “important” achievement. But let’s be honest: for the public, that title barely matters.

In Formula 1, only the drivers’ championship counts – that’s the one with real prestige, the ultimate prize.

And right now, that ultimate prize is slipping away from McLaren.

The results since the summer break speak for themselves: Max Verstappen and Red Bull are back in full force. They have nothing to lose – and everything to gain.

Lando Norris, McLaren, Oscar Piastri, McLaren, Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

McLaren, on the other hand, can only lose – and in recent weeks, the team has looked more nervous than at any other point this season. Strategy calls have become less precise, pitstops are no longer flawless, and even the drivers are showing cracks under pressure.

Of course, we could have once again crowned Oscar Piastri the ‘worst sleeper’ of the night. But the situation at McLaren goes far beyond their championship leader’s current dip.

All these ‘side battles’ have clearly left their mark on the team. The constant chatter, speculation, and media pressure have created a climate of uncertainty – and it’s showing on track.

Hovering over all of this, like a sword of Damocles, are McLaren’s self-imposed ‘Papaya Rules’ – in other words, the rules McLaren has shackled itself with. Because the team is increasingly tripping over its own code of conduct.

Every minor incident is dissected, every tiny contact scrutinized. One internal review follows another. And anyone who says this leaves no mark on the people expected to perform on race weekends is fooling themselves.

Lando Norris, McLaren, Oscar Piastri, McLaren

Norris and Piastri may insist otherwise, but the ‘papaya ghost’ still haunts their minds – just listen to Piastri’s radio messages after the Singapore clash, or Norris’ comments following the sprint incident. Everything at McLaren now revolves around one question: how does this fit into the internal racing code, and what are the consequences?

Those very “consequences” for Norris, announced after Singapore, were another self-inflicted wound. When you chase irreproachable fairness, you inevitably lead whoever feels wronged to speak up. If there were consequences for Norris after Singapore, will there be some for Piastri after Austin?

That’s the vicious circle McLaren has created – and can no longer escape.

The team has even missed a chance to calm things down: in Austin, Brown spoke about “transparency”, yet failed to truly be transparent. Since then, those “consequences” have kept coming back to bite him.

Because one thing’s clear: nothing is clear. And that uncertainty is palpable. Every media session has become a balancing act.

And right in a phase where clear communication is valued more than ever, Brown is also fighting a legal battle with IndyCar champion Alex Palou, who accuses him of breaking his word and claims Brown failed to honor their agreements. If anything, that’s ironic, given that the very ‘Papaya Rules’ are based on mutual agreement and the principle of fair play.

Alex Palou blames McLaren in court over F1 deal, Zak Brown denies misleading him

Zak Brown responds to Alex Palou’s “ludicrous” claim about Oscar Piastri signing

Meanwhile, more and more voices are saying what many have long suspected: McLaren’s pursuit of absolute fairness between its two drivers simply isn’t possible. And every attempt to enforce it only makes things worse.

Where this will lead, nobody knows – not even Zak Brown. But one can safely assume that his thoughts are racing when he tries to sleep at night – especially after the weekend in Austin. If anyone had a rough night after the United States GP, it was the McLaren boss. For more reasons than one.

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

Former Everton and Real Madrid winger Royston Drenthe is in hospital after suffering a stroke last week.

The 38-year-old was admitted to hospital on Friday and is receiving ‘good care’.

The news shared by FC de Rebellen, an agency that represents former footballers.

Their statement reads: "Last Friday, Royston Drenthe suffered a stroke. Drenthe is currently receiving good care and is in good hands. The team and those involved hope for a speedy recovery."

An ex-Netherlands international, Drenthe began his playing career with Feyenoord before moving to Real Madrid in 2007, winning the La Liga title a year later.

Everyone at Everton wishes Royston Drenthe a full and speedy return to full health after reports he’s been taken to hospital. 💙 pic.twitter.com/CK7kXKs8uW

— Everton (@Everton) October 19, 2025

He went on loan to Everton in 2011-12 and had spells at other clubs included Reading and Sheffield Wednesday.

Everton wished him a speedy return to full health and posted on X: "Everyone at Everton wishes Royston Drenthe a full and speedy return to full health after reports he's been taken to hospital."

Meanwhile Reading added: “Everyone at Reading Football Club wishes former Royal Royston Drenthe a speedy recovery after he was taken ill on Friday. Get well soon Royston.”

Feyenoord posted a photo of Drenthe with the caption: “On behalf of all of Feyenoord: we are thinking of you and wish you all strength and power.”

Alpine release social media statement after team orders incident originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

After being ordered not to pass Pierre Gasly, Alpine teammate Franco Colapinto ignored those requests and out-muscled him to the inside of the uphill first turn, on lap 54 of 56, at the United States Grand Prix. 

Despite battling a seeming eternity away from the points, it did not feel as if the incident was going to be anything high-profile, but the team's social media activity suggests that they are not pleased about their Argentine driver's ignoring their order. 

Releasing a statement to their 'X' account, the team's Managing Director Steve Nielsen, said: "Today, like a lot of teams, we had to adapt our strategy based on the conditions and what we saw on track with the Hard tyre not looking to be a favourable race tyre.

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"We gave the instruction for the drivers to maintain position as we were managing fuel with both cars and the added variable of the number of laps remaining with the leaders in close proximity.

"As a team, any instruction made by the pit wall is final and today we are disappointed that this didn't happen so it's something we will review and deal with internally."

Posting this on social media is not earth-shattering in its drama. It does not suggest that Colapinto is suddenly under-pressure once more of losing his seat. The fact that he was competitive versus the senior driver in Gasly only helps his case for a seat in 2026, despite the car's degrading performance. 

But it is yet another sign that Alpine are currently in a mess and cannot wait for Mercedes engines as part of the new regulations for next season. Performance-wise, despite scoring 20 points, they are rooted to the very bottom of the constructors' championship and have not scored a point since the Belgian Grand Prix, seven races ago. 

Steve Nielsen pic.twitter.com/PYMkBQtdmR

— BWT Alpine Formula One Team (@AlpineF1Team) October 20, 2025

Speaking to the-race.com, post-race, Colapinto gave his side of the story: "We had quite a bit more pace than Pierre in the last stint. And had Bortoleto really close behind, attacking very hard.

"He was much quicker than is and it was holding me up with how slow Pierre was going. I think it was best for the situation to have me in front."

Regardless of the team order 'mini controversy', the reality of Alpine having both of its cars lapped demonstrates the lack of performance that has dominated so much of its 2025 and explains why they are bottom.

Formula 1 news & related links

• Verstappen wins US Grand Prix ahead of Norris to continue title push

• Piastri insists that 'mentality hasn't changed' after points lead cut

• Verstappen optimistic of winning championship following US GP win

For a lot of Liverpool fans right now, it's difficult to make sense of how the team is performing.

Prior to the season starting, you felt as though a lot of the weakness in the squad had been addressed through the summer recruitment. Big name players had been signed and a remarkable amount of money had been spent on the rebuild. Our recent struggles were unimaginable.

In the early few weeks, you could understand there being a few teething issues. After all, there had been a lot of squad turnover. Cohesiveness was going to take a little bit of time, and Alexander Isak, for example, needed to spend time working on his fitness after a summer away from training.

But to now have seen four losses in a row, with the latest defeat coming against rivals Manchester United - their first win at Anfield since 2016.- is a clear sign that something's not right. In spite of all the credit he has in the bank, Arne Slot is going to be feeling the pressure. It's his team now.

The 90 minutes were a hard watch, although buried under the rubble, there was at least one positive.

Konate delivers a masterclass

To claim the Frenchman was faultless would be wrong, but Ibrahima Konate really managed to lay down a marker this season in terms of where his usual performance standards need to be. By and large, he's struggled to find his level in this campaign, although we all know he's capable of more.

Against United on Sunday, he had eight clearances, four recoveries, 2/2 ground duels, 6/9 aerial duels, a big chance created as well as a key pass made, alongside three accurate long-balls. It was remarkable to see him brush off his poor form and find the fluency we're used to seeing from him.

Of course, the performance came in a losing effort and there is still plenty for him to work on - he went 0/2 in the tackles he was engaged in and he lost possession 11 times, which left us quite open.

Nonetheless, given one of the headlines from Liverpool's defensive problems was the Frenchman's form, it's really pleasing to know that we're improving in stages. It's not quite as bleak as you think.

And it's the context behind Konate's performance which makes it all the more impressive. This time last week, we weren't convinced he'd even make it to Anfield this week, given he joined up with the French national team with a suspected thigh injury from the defeat to Chelsea.

He sat out of his country's meeting with Azerbaijan before Didier Deschamps sent him back home to Merseyside rather than having him travel with the squad to Iceland. No update came on his overall fitness until Slot's press conference on Friday, when he was hardly given a resounding bill of health.

Two sessions without pain before the weekend meant he was fit enough to feature in the starting XI, but knowing he saw out the entire 90 minutes, it's remarkable that he performed as well as he did.

Over the next few weeks, we might see Joe Gomez slightly more involved if Konate's fitness is less as a result of such a heated battle with United. Overplaying him and increasing the likelihood of him twinging his thigh again would be a disaster, although cautious optimism feels reasonable.

In every other department, Slot will be concerned - and rightly so. None of the performances this season have really felt convincing. Until they do, the pressure and speculation will only get worse.

Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers

Los Angeles; Tuesday, 10 p.m. EDT

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Warriors -1.5; over/under is 224.5

BOTTOM LINE: The Los Angeles Lakers host the Golden State Warriors in the season opener.

Los Angeles finished 50-32 overall, 36-16 in Western Conference play and 31-10 at home during the 2024-25 season. The Lakers averaged 7.7 steals, 4.5 blocks and 13.1 turnovers per game last season.

Golden State went 48-34 overall and 29-23 in Western Conference games during the 2024-25 season. The Warriors averaged 113.8 points per game last season, 44.9 in the paint, 19.7 off of turnovers and 14.5 on fast breaks.

INJURIES: Lakers: LeBron James: out (nerve).

Warriors: De'Anthony Melton: out (knee), Moses Moody: out (calf).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Houston Rockets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

Oklahoma City; Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. EDT

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Thunder -7.5; over/under is 226.5

BOTTOM LINE: The Oklahoma City Thunder host the Houston Rockets in the season opener.

Oklahoma City went 68-14 overall and 39-13 in Western Conference play last season. The Thunder averaged 26.9 assists per game on 44.6 made field goals last season.

Houston finished 52-30 overall and 31-21 in Western Conference games during the 2024-25 season. The Rockets averaged 17.6 points off of turnovers, 18.1 second-chance points and 32.7 bench points last season.

INJURIES: Thunder: Jalen Williams: out (wrist), Thomas Sorber: out for season (knee).

Rockets: Fred VanVleet: out for season (acl), Dorian Finney-Smith: out (ankle).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Jonathan Davies has a message for England. "I'd love to see now another try at Wembley so they haven't got to show mine," he says.

It is a big challenge for Shaun Wane's side as they get ready to face Australia in London on Saturday, in the first rugby league Ashes Test since 2003.

Because the try that dual code rugby great Davies scored 31 years ago this week was one of the classics, a stunning 50-metre burst for the corner, in a memorable Ashes victory. Great Britain, playing with 12 men for almost an hour, beat the world champions at Wembley.

That score, on a wet afternoon in October 1994, was a defining moment - for the scorer, for the sport, even for the BBC's commentator that day.

The triumph it inspired is still heralded now. It's one that might offer lessons to help Wane's class of 2025. So how do you compete with the world's best?

"You have to be patient," Davies says. "Don't be chasing it. Don't be pushing passes. Make sure you have a good kicking game. And keep turning the Australians. And then just hang on in there.

"It's a fight, really, and then just try to make the most of your opportunities."

The team of 1994 had plenty of fight. Sometimes a bit too much. But they needed a thirst for battle, because they were up against it from the start.

'That was a bit surreal - Ellery was a good pal of mine'

There are several parallels between 1994 and 2025. As then, the Kangaroos arrive as World Cup holders and favourites. The first Test is at Wembley. And the build-up has been overshadowed by a head coach called Mal leaving for an Australian club job.

This time around, Australia lost their boss. Mal Meninga, the captain in 1994, stepped down in June to join new NRL franchise Perth Bears. Kevin Walters - a member of the '94 touring party, though he didn't play in the Tests - has stepped in.

"Yeah, I don't think that's an issue for Australia," says Martin Offiah, the legendary winger who was a Great Britain team-mate of Davies in 1994.

"They've got Gorden Tallis in as their assistant, their cultural guide, who brings them all together. At international level, with the quality they've got, there are probably 100 people they could get to coach Australia and still be quite confident."

Wind the clock back 31 years and it was Great Britain in the midst of a shake-up.

Just two months before the first Test, Mal Reilly ended his seven-year reign to head down under and join Newcastle Knights.

His replacement was a rugby superstar - but a coaching novice. Ellery Hanley, a three-time Man of Steel, had captained Great Britain in the 1988 and 1990 Ashes series, and had won just about everything in the club game.

He had retired from international rugby, though was still playing for Leeds, where he was also assistant coach. But still only 33, he had never been a head coach.

For those used to playing alongside him, the idea took getting used to.

"That was a bit surreal," Offiah says.

"Ellery was a good pal of mine; I'd toured with him for the first time in '88.

"But he was the consummate professional and switched into coaching mode quite easily - as he'd been a leader on the pitch as well."

Hanley immediately made a significant call - dropping out-of-form captain Garry Schofield, his Leeds team-mate, from the matchday squad for the first Test. And so on Saturday, 22 October 1994, it was Wigan scrum-half Shaun Edwards who led the side.

But less than half an hour into that first Test, the new captain was in big trouble.

'He's got to go'

Australia's team was packed with quality: Meninga and Steve Renouf in the centres, Andrew Ettingshausen on the wing, Laurie Daley at stand-off, Alfie Langer at scrum-half, Brad Fittler at loose forward, plus more.

Britain boasted an abundance of talent too, though: Davies, Offiah, Jason Robinson, Denis Betts, Andy Farrell, to name just a few. They fancied their chances.

But in the 26th minute, their job got much harder. A swift passing move gave Bradley Clyde space to run. Edwards stepped across, right arm outstretched, and poleaxed the Australian second row.

"He's got to go," shouted former Kangaroos scrum-half Peter Sterling, summarising for Australia's Channel Nine. Referee Graham Annesley agreed. A red card for the captain.

Clyde, having been replaced under the blood bin rule that allowed a temporary substitute for an injured player, came back on 10 minutes later and tried to continue.

But he collapsed in the tunnel at half-time and had to be taken to hospital for a precautionary brain scan. Thankfully, he was OK.

Davies says: "I didn't realise it on the day, but if you watch it on the video, when Shaun Edwards hits him, I think I'm behind, and you can see my face. And I'm thinking: 'Oof. This is not nice.'

"And that was it, really. Shaun was absolutely distraught. But even in that era, it was a clear sending off."

A player short, Britain still edged ahead through a Davies penalty. Then, as the clock ticked past 37 minutes, the extraordinary happened.

'Ten yards out, I knew I'd done him'

"Betts... to Davies! Davies! He's got some space! He's going for the corner! He's got his head back! And the Welshman... IS IN! For a magnificent try at the corner!"

Ray French, BBC TV commentary, 22 October 1994

It started midway inside the Great Britain half. Bobbie Goulding broke from a scrum and set Offiah away, but he was tackled by Australia's speedy full-back Brett Mullins. From the play-the-ball, Alan Hunte, Goulding and Phil Clarke worked possession right to Betts, who fed Davies on the halfway line with a long way to go.

"I'd noticed that Mullins had got caught up in a little tussle with Alan Hunte at the play-the-ball," Davies recalls.

"And as the ball came out there was good wide passing, and then I straightened up a little bit and there was a little bit of a dog leg [where the defensive line is not straight], so I just threw a dummy and then all of a sudden I was in space. And it was like slow motion then.

"As soon as I hit the gap, I hit open space. And the noise just hits you. It hits you, but it doesn't affect you, because it's like playing as a kid in the field.

"And Brett Mullins was coming over and I knew that if I just checked him a little bit, leaned in with my head, and then accelerated off my left foot, that I'd have a good chance of beating him as he was out of position because of that little tussle he'd had.

"Ten yards out, I knew I'd done him."

Wembley's best-ever try? There's some friendly disagreement there. Six months earlier, Offiah had scored an astonishing length-of-the-field try, finished in the same corner of the stadium, for Wigan against Leeds in the Challenge Cup final.

"I went through Brad Fittler and Steve Renouf, and then outside Brett Mullins," Davies says. "Martin Offiah always says he scored the best try at Wembley, and I'm going: 'Hang on, who did you beat, mate? Who did you beat?'"

Offiah recalls: "I always joke to Jiffy that he scored the second-best try ever at Wembley. And he always says that his was against better opposition. But yeah, it was an incredible score. I'd say that's the moment that Jiffy's going to be remembered for."

Viewed in 2025, the try has a touch of poignancy. Ray French, the BBC television commentator who described it so memorably, died in July.

On the night of his death, the BBC One late news ran a short tribute. There was an archive clip: Davies' try, with French's words.

"It was a really poignant moment to remember that and remember Ray as well," Davies says.

'Davies is having a 10 out of 10 here'

Remarkably, 12-man Great Britain held a 6-0 lead at half-time. Now they had to defend it.

Twelve minutes into the second half, Fittler made a break to within 25 metres of the Great Britain line, with Langer in support and only Davies to beat. Surely the Kangaroos would score now.

Davies had to decide fast: Go to tackle the man with the ball and leave Langer free? Or gamble on Fittler passing and go for Langer?

He went to tackle Langer. It was the right call - saving a certain try.

"Davies is having a 10 out of 10 here," said Channel Nine commentator Ray Warren.

But the full-back's afternoon was over within three minutes. In the aftermath of more extraordinary defending - Gary Connolly holding up Fittler virtually over the line - Davies helped scramble the ball clear, but suffered a dislocated shoulder as team-mate Barrie McDermott fell on him.

Still Britain held their lead - only conceding when Renouf scored with eight minutes left. Test debutant David Furner missed the conversion from out wide, to the roars of the Wembley crowd, and the hosts saw the game out, with Goulding adding a late penalty to complete an 8-4 win.

But Davies' injury had consequences. He missed the remaining two Tests at Old Trafford and Elland Road, which Australia won to clinch the series.

"Barrie McDermott dived on top of me and I popped my clavicle joint," Davies recalls. "I didn't play for 10 weeks after. And that was a huge disappointment for me, because I felt with winning at Wembley, we could have won that series."

'I'll take it to the grave that I didn't win an Ashes series'

Hanley moved on in the months after that Ashes series, to play in Australia. Davies returned to rugby union. The squad of 1994 were left with thoughts of what might have been.

As it is, Australia remain unbeaten in an Ashes series since 1970. They haven't lost one in England since 1959.

There have been memorable individual British victories - in Sydney in 1988, at Wembley in 1990 and 1994, and in Melbourne in 1992 - and a few close calls: Australia had to come from behind to win all three Tests in 2003. But putting it together over a whole series has proved tougher.

"That's the thing that I'll take to the grave, that I didn't win an Ashes series," Offiah says.

"We've had so many fantastic victories against Australia, but for some reason it didn't happen. Australia still managed to get over the line."

'Nothing can build respect for the international game like this'

After a 22-year gap, the Ashes return - albeit with a difference, as Australia will be facing England.

Whether it should be Great Britain, as in every previous series dating back to the origin of the Ashes in 1908, has been a matter for debate.

"Being the traditionalist, I would still like it to be Great Britain," Offiah says. "It would probably be a similar team anyway, but I think the brand of Great Britain, with the success and the history, probably would give us that extra little bit.

"But there's nothing that can build the respect for the international game like this."

'Anything could happen on the day'

The key to building that respect will be a competitive series.

"Australia will start as favourites," Davies says. "I think they have to because of the past history of the results. They have the intensity of the NRL competition. But it's the first one, they could be caught cold a little bit.

"I think anything could happen at Wembley on the day. That's the one that's going to set the tone for the rest of the series."

The hope, for England, is that someone produces a moment to remember.

Offiah adds: "There are a lot of players who want to state their name on the international stage.

"I'd say to all Australian and English rugby league fans, it's definitely going to be a moment in history."

Where to watch West Ham vs. Brentford live stream, TV channel, start time, lineups for Premier League match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

West Ham United are hosting Brentford on Monday night in Matchday 8 of the Premier League 2025/26 season at the London Stadium.

The clash kicks off a new chapter for the Hammers at home under Nuno Espirito Santo, while they are yet to secure a win under the new manager. Since Nuno took over, West Ham have played two road games, drawing 1-1 at Everton and then losing 2-0 at Arsenal, leading to a four-game winless streak. 

While West Ham sits 19th in the standings, Brentford are 16th with just one win in their last five games. They are coming off a narrow 1-0 defeat to Manchester City, before which the Bees defeated Manchester United 3-1 at home.

The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the latest lineup news.

West Ham vs. Brentfordlive stream, TV channel

Here's how to watch this Premier League match in the U.S.:

TV channel: ---
Live stream: FuboTV, NBC Sports App

This game is not available for live TV broadcast in the US. Streaming options are available on Fubo. 

Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)

What time does West Ham vs. Brentfordkick off?

This Premier League clash takes place at the London Stadium in London, England and kicks off on Monday, October 20 at 8:00 p.m. local time. (BST)

Here's how that time translates across the U.S.:

West Ham vs. Brentford lineups, team news

Nuno Espírito Santo is expected to make minimal changes to his starting XI with Alphonse Areola likely to retain his place in goal despite conceding twice against Arsenal and while the defensive trio of El Hadji Malick Diouf, Konstantinos Mavropanos and Max Kilman are expected to continue.

Esprito could change full-back with Kyle Walker-Peters likely to replace Aaron Wan-Bissaka who struggled at the Emirates.

Soungoutou Magassa and Mateus Fernandes will operate as the double pivot in the midfield and Lucas Paqueta should keep his spot in the No.10 role.

Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville are expected to start once again on the flanks and Callum Wilson could lead the line.

As far as injury news is concerned, Santo will be without Niclas Fullkrug, who suffered a quadriceps strain while on international duty and is currently being assessed with no set return date.

George Earthy also remains sidelined due to a thigh injury sustained during U21 duty, and is not expected back until late November.

West Ham starting XI (Formation, right to left): Areola (GK) — Walker-Peters, Mavropanos, Kilman, Diouf — Fernandes, Magassa — Bowen, Paqueta, Summerville — Wilson

Injured:George Earthy (thigh), Niclas Fullkrug (quadriceps strain)

Suspended:None

Brentford will travel to the London Stadium with a few key absentees.

Antoni Milambo is out for the long term after suffering an ACL injury on international duty, while Edmond-Paris Maghoma continues to regain full fitness following a thigh issue and is still unavailable.

Gustavo Nunes Fernandes Gomes has resumed training and could be an option from the bench if deemed ready. Yegor Yarmoliuk and Aaron Hickey are nursing minor knocks but are expected to undergo late assessments before kickoff

Brentford predicted starting XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Kelleher (GK) — Kayode, Collins, Van den Berg, Hickey — Henderson , Yarmoliuk— Ouattara, Damsgaard,Schade — Thiago

Injured:Milambo (knee) , Paris Maghoma (thigh) , Nunes Fernandes Gomes (doubt, thigh), Yarmoliuk (doubt, knock) , Hickey (doubt, knee)

Suspended:None

Premier League fixture schedule this week

All times ET

Saturday, October 18

• Nottingham Forest vs. Chelsea (7:30 a.m.)
• Brighton vs. Newcastle (10:00 a.m.)
• Burnley vs. Leeds (10:00 a.m.)
• Crystal Palace vs. Bournemouth (10:00 a.m.)
• Man City vs. Everton (10:00 a.m.)
• Sunderland vs. Wolves (10:00 a.m.)
• Fulham vs. Arsenal (12:30 p.m.)

Sunday, October 19

• Tottenham vs. Aston Villa (9:00 a.m.)
• Liverpool vs. Man United (11:30 a.m.)

Monday, October 20

• West Ham vs. Brentford (3:00 p.m.)

Related Links

• Latest men's soccer news and rumors
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Manchester United secured a hard-fought 2-1 win over Liverpool as the Red Devils claimed back-to-back Premier League victories for the first time under Ruben Amorim.

Man United were bouncing following a win before the international break and took that confidence into the tie against the Reds at Anfield.

Amorim’s side opened the scoring in the second minute before Liverpool restored parity in the second half via Cody Gakpo, who had hit the post twice.

United reprised the lead thanks to a header from Harry Maguire, inflicting a fourth straight defeat on the Premier League champions.

After the game, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes revealed how they managed to tame their rampant Merseyside arch-rivals.

The Portuguese midfield maestro said (via the BBC), “We knew that we had to win our duels. In the first ten minutes, we knew they would try to start the game very strong.

“Also, in the first half, we understood that they were under pressure when they had time on the ball, the fans were putting them in a difficult position and booing for them to play quicker.

“We wanted to slow their game, and we knew that would give massive spaces around the middle.

“In the second half, we could have played a little bit more on the ball.”

Fernandes’ comments were echoed by defender Matthijs De Ligt, who added that United specifically targeted Liverpool’s full-backs, knowing their vulnerabilities.

It’s an admission that will give Liverpool boss Arne Slot plenty to think about as he looks to steady a side that has now lost four on the spin.

The balance between their attacking verve and defensive exposure remains a key issue.

For Man United, though, this victory feels like more than just three points. It represents momentum, something Amorim’s side must now build on.

With Brighton & Hove Albion, Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur up next, these back-to-back wins provide a foundation of belief.

Sustaining that confidence could finally spark the consistency that’s eluded the Red Devils for months.

Casemiro’s time at Manchester United has been a rollercoaster.

Original plan to sell

Despite a highly successful first season at United under Erik ten Hag in the 2022/2023 season, there have been numerous times the former Real Madrid man has struggled in a United shirt.

When Ineos first secured minority control of the club, they in fact highlighted the Casemiro deal as the type of mistakes the previous regime at Old Trafford were making.

Resurgence

Nonetheless, the Brazilian has never given up on his United career despite numerous reports that he has been for sale for the right price for years.

Casemiro struggled in his second year but largely played better last year.

He was originally left out of the team by Ruben Amorim when he joined in late 2024 but he has since fought his way back into the first eleven and has been first choice alongside Bruno Fernandes in this campaign.

His importance was once again highlighted by him starting at Anfield despite playing twice for Brazil in friendlies in Asia over the international break.

Casemiro may stay

It was assumed that the Brazil international would be leaving the club at the end of his contract this coming summer but reports suggest this may be premature.

The Athletic reports that “given his return to regular action and his happiness in Manchester, Casemiro is not looking beyond Old Trafford yet. He still wants to turn United into a force again.”

It is claimed that United are unlikely to take up an option in his current deal as that would imply he would stay on the same massive wages he is currently on.

Nonetheless, “negotiating a new deal is not out of the question.”

In addition, the club have reportedly been impressed with the 33 year old’s reaction to being left out of the team in early 2025.

The article states that “Casemiro didn’t go banging on Amorim’s door. Speak to people close to his camp and they say he was not down but instead motivated to prove doubters wrong, that his intention was to show his manager on the training pitch what he could offer before displaying to the rest when he regained his place in the team.”

People around the club “note his mentality and his leadership off the pitch as much as on it.”

They tell the story of a “bubbly character” who is always happy to work with young players and act as a mentor.

Featured image Alex Livesey via Getty Images

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Pramac rider Jack Miller admitted he “let everybody down”, including his team, with a race-ending shunt at the Australian Grand Prix.

Miller emerged as a surprise frontrunner at Phillip Island last weekend, qualifying on the front row of the grid for the first time since 2023 before finishing a solid fourth in Saturday’s sprint.

In the main race on Sunday, he dropped from third on the grid to sixth early on as the Yamaha lacked the long-run pace of its rivals, but was still in for a solid points haul on home turf.

However, his race ended prematurely when he lost the front end of his M1 at Siberia on lap 5, marking his second retirement in as many weekends.

The Queenslander revealed that he was struggling with the handling of his bike on a heavier fuel load in the race, but was nevertheless disappointed in himself given the speed he had enjoyed earlier in the weekend.

“It felt decent coming into the race. I got away to a decent start, I was in the group there," he explained.

“I was struggling a little bit more than I had done all weekend, especially [Turns] 6 and 2. I kind of felt like I had to force it a little bit more to make a turn. Whether it be the Pirelli rubber or the extra fuel, [I don’t know]. We're only two litres more than warm up but still. It just felt like I had to force it a little bit more. 

“I had a couple of warnings going into [Turn] 6, just with a little bit of vibration going in as I'm trying to force the bike to turn in. And yeah, ‘she’ finally said no more on the third time; kind of just vibrated in and then went on me. 

“[I am] disappointed to let everybody down, let the team down after what was a strong weekend. 

“But we showed this weekend great pace, great speed - doing it on our own. So try and take the positives and learn from the negatives, and try to understand what the difference was today. 

“I felt like I positioned myself well. Just creeping up to what could have been a nice result. But that's all to say, we need to put it into practice. It's two weekends now where we're going to let ourselves down in the main race. 

“[Now we will] try and get out of this little bit of slump, that is the GP race and try to fix it going forwards.” 

Home heartbreak for @jackmilleraus 💔

The #43 has crashed out of 6th! 💥#AustralianGP 🇦🇺 pic.twitter.com/4059cqp0RB

— MotoGP™🏁 (@MotoGP) October 19, 2025

Sunday at Phillip Island began with Darwin-born Justin Kelso finishing on the podium in the Moto3 race, before Senna Agius brought more delight to the home crowd with victory in Moto2.

Since Casey Stoner’s retirement at the end of 2022, Miller has been the prolific Australian rider in MotoGP, although more Aussies have entered grand prix racing in recent years.

“I'm stoked for the other two,” he said. “Of course, I appreciate the home fans and everything. [But] I'm a racer, I'm trying to do the best I can every time I get on the bike. 

“Senna's down there with all my larrikins at the moment. Three sheets of the wind, having a good time. It's good for him and I was so bloody stoked. Gave him a big old hug and was out there clapping. 

“I'm a fan of Australian motorsports, whether it be motorcycling, road racing, motocross, Formula 1 with Oscar [Piastri]. I love when Aussies do well. 

“I enjoy that success and I try to feed off it almost. But unfortunately, today we weren't able to join the club.”

Francesco Bagnaia explains Australian GP crash: “I told myself I won’t finish last”

“I couldn’t even smile”: MotoGP’s newest winner on tough stretch before Australia triumph

Marco Bezzecchi never thought Australian GP win was possible after double long lap

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

LOS ANGELES- Sunday's match against the Portland Thorns ended Angel City's chances at a spot in the playoffs, thanks to a 2-0 loss. But the story of the night was the tearful goodbyes of Christen Press and Ali Riley, two major players in the club's history.  

The loss is a tough blow to the club, as this is their third year without making a playoff match. Of its four seasons played, Angel City has made one playoff appearance. It wasn't the most dynamic performance the club had given, but players like Gisele Thompson, Evelyn Shores and Jun Endo helped create four shots on target and break past Portland's attack. 

Portland opened the scoring in the 23rd minute. Midfielder Olivia Moultrie received a pass from forward Alexa Spaanstra just outside the 18, drove forward a few steps, and sent the ball to the back of the net.

In the 36th minute, Thompson created a chance. Midfielder Miyabi Moriya and forward Riley Tiernan combined outside the penalty area, with Tiernan sending a lateral pass to Thompson. The defender dribbled to the edge of the box, cut the ball to her left foot, and put a strike on target, which goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold leapt to tip over the bar with one hand.

In the 60th minute, Moultrie's successful penalty kick doubled the score, drawn a few minutes before by ACFC defender Sara Doorsoun.In the 63rd minute, Angel City had another chance when Moriya found forward Christen Press near the penalty spot with her back to goal. Press turned her defender and put a shot on target, but Arnold saved.

While Olivia Moultrie's brace added a loss to ACFC's record, the club would have been eliminated regardless of the outcome against the Thorns. Midway through the first half of Angel City's game, Racing Louisville tied the Houston Dash. The draw put Louisville at 37 points on the table, which is higher than the total of possible points Angel City could accumulate in its last two games, effectively removing Los Angeles from playoff contention.

A hometown farewell

The game marked the final home game for Angel City originals Press and Riley, who were honored in a tear-filled ceremony after the match. Press and Riley both made their final home game appearances to a chorus of chants. The two grew up in Los Angeles and were given a hometown hero goodbye filled with cheers, claps, and tears as teammates, front office staff and parents spoke before presenting both players with framed jerseys. 

In the 61st minute, Press checked in for the last time at home in front of 19,841 fans. 

Press was the first player ever signed to Angel City in 2022  in a trade with Racing Louisville FC. While her ACL tear kept her off the pitch for more than two years, Press's impact on the club and game as a whole is undeniable. She made her return in June of 2024.  

“This sport has grown and blossomed in my 14 years as a professional,” Press told the crowd during her retirement ceremony following the match. “This community and club marks all of the work my teammates (with the USWNT) and I did over a decade to fight for equity, progress and opportunity for the next generation.

“To the young people, when I was your age, I didn’t get to come to games like this, and I hope in some small way, the work that we did allows you to dream your wildest dreams.”

Late in the second half, the crowd began to chant “We want Ali Riley!” hoping to see their beloved captain make her final return to the pitch. In the 82nd minute, Riley checked in for the last home game of her career. 

Riley, face stained with a teary smile, spoke to the crowd during her ceremony, surrounded by loved ones and former teammates, including Alyssa Thompson. She shared moments dear to her heart and acknowledged her history with Press. The two played collegiate soccer at Stanford University, spending the 2007 preseason as roommates. In a full-circle moment, they spent their final season at Angel City as travel roommates. 

She ended her speech with a message to the city that raised her and the fans that supported her endlessly throughout her four years with ACFC. 

"As I look around, all I can think is this truly is a city of angels. I feel so lucky to stand here surrounded by coaches from all different parts of my career...It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve this club, but I could have never done it without all of you, so thank you so much”. 

Riley reflected on the personal journey and difficult moments she faced this season. Earlier this year, Riley’s parents' home was lost in the Palisades Fire, days before she got married.

“I think about the fire and we still had that hope that maybe the house didn’t burn down,” Riley said in a post-game interview. “I think that’s only human is to just have hope and that’s a way that I like to live. With my injury, I accepted that it was probably the end of my career, but my parents never stopped believing in me and they would ask me about training and it was hard but their unwavering belief helped me get there in the dark times. I couldn’t have kept hope and determination if it wasn’t for my family.”

Since their inaugural season with the club in 2022, the two veterans have grown the game immensely, pushing for equal pay, better training, and awareness. “I’m grateful and hopeful to know that there are young people in this stadium and on my team who only know a club like this, a career like this, and a beautiful life like this,” said Riley.

Nottingham Forest are scrambling for a new manager for the dugout at the City Ground, and Sean Dyche “is emerging as a leading candidate”, (h/t The Athletic).

Forest are scampering to appoint a third head coach of the season after Roberto Mancini rejected their approach.

The Nottingham Forest hierarchy, including global head of football Edu Gaspar and global technical director George Syrianos, held positive talks with Dyche.

The Tricky Trees see Dyche as the most realistic and experienced option to steady this sinking ship at the City Ground.

Forest have been in disarray since sacking Ange Postecoglou at the weekend, just eight games into his reign.

The Australian tactician failed to win a single match after replacing Nuno Espirito Santo in September, leaving Forest 18th in the Premier League with only one victory all season.

A 3–0 defeat to a fallible Chelsea side proved the final straw for owner Evangelos Marinakis, who is now desperate to find stability.

Dyche brings nearly a decade of Premier League experience from his time at Burnley and Everton.

He infamously kept Everton in the top flight despite two separate points deductions.

Meanwhile, his tenure at Burnley remains one of the most successful in the club’s history.

His pragmatic, no-nonsense approach will appeal to a Forest squad crying out for structure and identity after months of chaos.

It will also appeal to the hierarchy desperate to hold onto their place in the top flight.

His Premier League record in 332 matches is 93 wins, 91 draws, and 148 losses.

Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson believes ‘his man-management skills are second to none’.

Forest’s recruitment team is said to be conducting a thorough process to identify the right fit, with Marco Silva unlikely to leave Fulham and Mancini ruling himself out.

Dyche now stands as the clear favourite ahead of Thursday’s Europa League tie against Porto.

However, even if Dyche is appointed, Forest’s scattergun approach has been absurd to witness.

From the balanced ideals of Nuno to the ultra-attacking football of Postecoglou, and now to Dyche’s rigid defensive philosophy. There is clearly no direction here.

Marinakis’ decision-making is increasingly erratic, undoing the steady progress the club had made since their Premier League return.

Forest once had a clear project and identity taking shape. Now, it feels like chaos dressed as ambition.

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin has been one of the best players in the NHL to start the 2025-26 season.

He started the season with a bang, notching two assists in the Penguins' 3-0 win over the New York Rangers in the season opener, and has stayed hot since, compiling two goals and nine points in six games. He has only been pointless in one game thus far, and it came on October 11 when the Penguins got blown out by the Rangers, 6-1. 

Malkin has been driving offense on his line and has found some great chemistry with Anthony Mantha and Justin Brazeau. It felt like Brazeau was on the line as a placeholder due to injuries, but he's off to such a great start that there's no reason to take him away from Malkin. 

Malkin has even moved up to No. 28 on the NHL's all-time scoring list. He just passed Brendan Shanahan on the list and has 1,355 all-time points. He's only 15 away from passing Johnny Bucyk for No. 27 on the list. 

This week's slate will provide him with plenty of opportunities to keep up his great start. The Penguins will play the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday, the Florida Panthers on Thursday, and the Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday. He has 13 goals and 30 points in 24 games against the Canucks, 19 goals and 52 points in 48 career games against the Panthers, and 19 goals and 49 points in 40 games against the Blue Jackets. 

Let's see what this week brings for one of the greatest players in franchise history.

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Check in every week for the unfiltered opinions of our writers and editors as they break down the hottest topics in the sport, and join the conversation by tweeting us at @golf_com. This week, we discuss another Tommy Fleetwood victory, a unique tournament venue, the LPGA’s latest champion and more.

Tommy Fleetwood won the DP World India Championship to earn his second victory in his last four starts (not to mention his Ryder Cup dominance). Now no longer worried about securing his first PGA Tour win (and save for the World No. 1), is there a player primed for a more dominant 2026 than Fleetwood?

Josh Berhow, managing editor (@Josh_Berhow): The stars certainly seem to be aligning for a Fleetwood breakout. He had a few close calls even before he finally won the Tour Championship, so it’s not like the last few months have been a fluke. The guy can ball-strike with the best of them, which is a good way to always stay in contention. But it’s also important to remember guys have gotten hot and looked ready to tear up the golf world before, only to disappear. (Viktor Hovland won back-to-back playoff events in August 2023 and didn’t win again for 19 months.) I don’t expect a Scottie-like 2026, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Fleetwood picked off two or even three wins next year.

Alan Bastable, executive editor (@alan_bastable): Amazing how wins so often beget more wins. Fleetwood is the latest case in point, and not necessarily because his game is any better than it was a year ago - but more so because he’s leading the Tour in SG: Confidence. We'll see if that magic stays with him through the offseason. As he said himself on Sunday, "I know form doesn’t last forever, but I’m trying to make myself the most consistent player I can be." But, yes, to answer the question, he's incredibly well positioned for 2026. Another guy I'm excited to see in action next year: Cameron Young. Curious if his impressive Ryder Cup will give him a shot of sustained confidence.

Jessica Marksbury, senior editor (@jess_marksbury): It's always interesting when players get hot in the fall and winter to see if they can sustain the momentum into the next summer major season. Although, as Josh mentioned, it's not as though Tommy is coming out of nowhere. He's been a favorite pick at the majors even before his PGA Tour breakthrough. But Tommy does seem to come on especially strong in Ryder Cup years. So let's revisit this in 2027! As for next year, I'm looking forward to keeping my eye on another solid European: Alex Noren, who won two DP World Tour titles this year and is projected to earn his PGA Tour card for next season.

Fleetwood beat out a handful of stars to win on a narrow Delhi Golf Club, where it was reported that 42 percent of the field played without a driver. Should the PGA Tour visit more courses where players are forced to be more strategic off the tee? And how often?

Berhow: Delhi Golf Club is a pretty extreme example - I don’t want Rory hitting zero drivers! - but it should definitely happen more, as playing sound, strategic golf and hitting clubs the course might call for is a skill, just as much as it is to bomb driver all around the property. It gives more players a chance too. Years ago I remember Kevin Kisner rattling off a list of courses he felt he couldn’t win on simply due to the distance required off the tee. How realistic it is though is another question. Lots of logistics go into picking a Tour venue - a sponsor, the TV production, etc. - and sometimes the type of golf course isn’t always the main focus.

Bastable: Power should be a competitive advantage in golf so, yeah, it would be unfair to suddenly inject the Tour schedule with a bunch more tight and tree-choked sites. Still, this week in New Delhi was a fun reminder that there's more than one way to test elite players who can hit a driver 330 yards, and some of the players seemed to really dig the challenge. "I like courses like this a lot more because you just hit a variety of different clubs more often," Ben Griffin said early in the week, "whereas in America we’re so used to hitting maybe drivers and wedges a lot more."

Marksbury: Playing a round of golf without a driver is something I will never be able to relate to! Years ago, a USGA official told me that the objective for the course setup for the U.S. Open was not necessarily to provide the most tortuous test, but for players to utilize every club in the bag over the course of the tournament. I like that idea, and I am definitely in favor of promoting more courses (or setups) where that's possible. Six or seven times a year would be nice.

Rory McIlroy was among the players who kept the driver out of the bag and tied for 26th in India. When course setup limits drivers, is McIlroy at the biggest disadvantage?

Berhow: Although Scottie Scheffler leads the Tour in Strokes Gained: Off the Tee, I think most would argue McIlroy with a driver in hand is one of the best shows in golf, and it might be the single club that gives one player an advantage more than any other (Scottie with an iron a close second?). That said, Rory didn't win a career grand slam by simply hitting driver, but he does probably do the most with it.

Bastable: I think it was probably less a case of the setup not suiting McIlroy's skill sets and more a case of the target-style of golf really suiting other players, notably Tommy Fleetwood, who said the course "set up perfectly for me." Interestingly, if you look at McIlory's 10 bogeys from the week, most were caused not by loose tee shots but by missing greens or pins on the wrong side.

Marksbury: I agree with both of my colleagues here. Eliminating driver is a bummer for a player with so much prowess off the tee. But at the end of the day, you're hitting way more approaches and putts than you are tee shots. So whatever advantage McIlroy was losing was still somewhat minimal, in my mind.

Sei Young Kim won the BMW Ladies Championship to become the 27th different winner on the LPGA Tour this season, where there’s been just one two-time winner on the year (Jeeno Thitikul, who won her second event, the LPGA Shanghai, a week ago). With only five tournaments remaining, how do you analyze the current player-of-the-year race?

Berhow: Jeeno Thitikul is the obvious front-runner as the only player with multiple wins, and her season’s been great beyond those weeks. She’s missed just one cut all year and has 12 top-10 finishes. Since this is decided based on points, the CME Group Tour Championship might end up deciding the whole thing. We didn’t have that drama last year with Nelly Korda running away with this.

Marksbury: Agree, Josh. That 27 first-time winner stat is incredible. It really speaks to how deep the talent runs on the LPGA Tour, and as you mentioned, Jeeno may have only two wins, but she's contended nearly every time she's teed it up, notched four runner-ups and would be very deserving of the crown, even without a major title this year.

Bastable: To put Jeeno's consistency in perspective, she is 120 points ahead of the second-ranked player on the Rolex list, Nelly Korda - while Korda has only a 20-point lead on the third spot, held by Minjee Lee. In other words, Thitikul is miles ahead of her peer. Only blemish on her 2025 resume came at the U.S. Women's Open, where she missed her only cut of the year.

Playing for the first time since he withdrew from Sunday singles and evoked the now-controversial “envelope rule” at the Ryder Cup, Viktor Hovland called the situation “upsetting” but added he doesn’t see an easy fix for the rule. OK fair. But what Ryder Cup rule would you change?

Berhow: Easy - pick the matchups like they do at the Presidents Cup, where the captains alternate their selections. That way, as long as the captains play ball, we can get a little more drama infused into the event. (And drama that doesn't include boneheaded fans.)

Bastable: In the case of a tie at the end of singles, institute a three-hole aggregate-score playoff, pitting one player from each team selected by their respective captain. Unlike the envelope rule, though, the playoff reps would be selected in advance. The captains would pick them in the moment so, should they wish, they can nominate not necessarily their best player but the hottest one.

Marksbury: The Ryder Cup is nearly perfect, but I don't like the "retention" rule if there's a tie. We need a result! The envelope should be used to nominate one player from each team to face off in a sudden-death playoff for the whole thing.

The post Tour Confidential: Is Tommy Fleetwood primed for a huge 2026? appeared first on Golf.

Arne Slot Faces New Gravenberch Concern After Manchester United Defeat

Injuries Disrupt Liverpool’s Rhythm

Liverpool’s 2-1 loss to Manchester United at Anfield brought more than frustration on the pitch, it delivered another headache for Arne Slot. Ryan Gravenberch, only just back in the starting lineup alongside Alexis Mac Allister, was withdrawn early in the second half after twisting his ankle in a challenge with Bryan Mbeumo.

Gravenberch managed to walk off without assistance, however his discomfort was clear. With Wataru Endo already unavailable, Slot now stares at a midfield dilemma at the worst possible time.

Slot Gives Cautious Gravenberch Update

Speaking after the match, Slot admitted that the Dutchman is unlikely to feature in midweek.

“I took him off because he twisted his ankle,” Slot said. “Is he an injury concern? That’s what we have to wait and see tomorrow, but we have to play in two days again.

“We have to play three games in seven days, like we had to do after the last international break. There is not a lot of time for players to recover but the good thing is we have more than one good midfielder.”

Liverpool travel to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League on Wednesday and Slot will now be forced to reassess his setup, having switched to a more aggressive formation following Gravenberch’s exit, with Florian Wirtz and Curtis Jones asked to shoulder central duties.

Missed Chances Overshadow Refereeing Frustration

Mac Allister also suffered a head injury just before Mbeumo’s early opener. Referee Michael Oliver waved play on, drawing irritation from Slot, though he stopped short of blaming officiating for the defeat.

“We could have done much better after Macca was on the floor, we should have done better,” Slot said. “But the healthcare of a player is something that is important and if a player needs to have four stitches, you would hope that everybody understands that he needs immediate treatment.

“But it didn’t happen. But, again, we could have done better, so that’s not the reason why we lost this game today, the reason is because we missed far too many chances to win a game of football.”

Pressure Mounts on Slot’s Game Plan

The result marked Liverpool’s fourth straight home defeat to United, a sequence not seen since 2014. Criticism quickly followed, with some questioning Slot’s tactical approach, labelling it “indecipherable” as Ruben Amorim secured back-to-back league wins.

Liverpool now sit four points behind Arsenal and the narrative in some quarters suggests the title race has already slipped from their grasp. Whether fair or premature, Slot’s immediate focus will be ensuring Gravenberch recovers quickly, because without him his options tighten significantly.

The biggest women's tennis tournament to be played in the UK this year outside of the grass court season is heading to north Wales for the first time.

The Lexus Wrexham Open, a prestigious ITF World Tennis Tour event previously hosted in Shrewsbury, will feature leading British and international tennis stars and will be streamed live on the BBC Sport website and app.

It will take place at Wrexham Tennis & Padel Centre between October 19-26 with Mimi Xu leading the Welsh contingent that also includes Megan Davies and Elizabeth Evans.

Event promoter Dave Courteen says the event "will be the biggest tennis tournament ever held in north Wales, as well as the largest women's tennis event in Wales since the Rover Championships in Cardiff in 1996".

Courteen, who has worked closely with the Lawn Tennis Association and Tennis Wales to deliver the tournament added: "Marketa Vondrousova was crowned Wimbledon champion in 2023 just eight months after winning the W100 title at Shrewsbury, so this gives a perfect indication of the profile of this tournament and the quality of players it attracts.

"We know Wrexham is famous for its football club so we want this event to be another way of celebrating what a great city Wrexham is."

The Plas Coch Road venue recently benefitted from a £2.5 million refurbishment, primarily funded by the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund.

Additional support came from Sport Wales and Wrexham Council followed by a further grant from the Welsh Government to bring the lighting up to ITF international tennis standards.

The centre will be transformed during the tournament, with a 600-seat capacity arena constructed around the main show court for spectators.

Caroline Lacy, head of tennis relations and event development at the LTA, said: "We are thrilled to bring women's professional tennis back to Wales for the first time in nearly three decades."

Welsh minister for culture, skills and social partnership Jack Sargeant "was thoroughly impressed" by the venue's facilities.

"These world-class amenities are an important addition to the sporting landscape in north Wales, providing a platform where both elite athletes and grassroots enthusiasts from the local community can train and enjoy their sport," he added.

"Bringing an elite women's tennis tournament to Wrexham for the first time is also an investment in our tourism industry.

Tennis Wales chief executive Simon Johnson said: "This tournament will help to further raise the profile of tennis in Wales and it's an event to really look forward to."

Verstappen optimistic of winning championship following US GP win originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

It was before the summer break when Max Verstappen's and Red Bull's season hit its nadir, a lowly eighth-place finish at the Hungarian Grand Prix saw both driver and team surely writing off their chances of winning the championship.

It was so low that the world champion could not see a world in which he won another race in 2025. But write them off at your peril, because it is a combination that has defined greatness before and is doing so again.

After his home race, the Dutch Grand Prix, Verstappen slipped to 104 points behind the title lead. In the four races since, he has brought it down to 40. At this rate, he will be the world champion, with both the McLaren drivers struggling to craft together any momentum. 

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The RB21 has found something that it could not earlier in the year. Upgrades brought in the wake of the summer have seen its performance transformed. Even if the drivers in papaya have underperformed in recent races, Verstappen has been genuinely quick and even could have taken pole and the victory at Singapore had his final Q3 lap been smoother. 

Ultimately, it is 119 points out of the last 133 possible; including three wins in the last four races, four in five if you count the sprints, the comeback that is being staged is quite remarkable. 

But on his dominant US win, Verstappen said to skysportsf1.com: "Yeah for sure, the chance is there [of the championship]. 

"We just need to try and deliver these weekends until the end. We will try whatever we can. It's exciting and I'm very excited until the end."

On his US Grand Prix triumph, that ensured he scored maximum points in Austin, Texas, Verstappen added: "What was key was that first stint where Charles [Leclerc] was basically holding up Lando quite a bit because that's where I could make my gap. 

"As soon as Lando was in clean air he was very fast, matching or being faster than us. Basically that gap stayed more or less the same until the end, where Lando again of course had to pass Charles."

Verstappen's three victories in the last four races have come on different track layouts. Although Monza and the Baku City Street Circuit are dominated by low-drag, the amount of slow-speed corners, as well as the impact of the wind, suggests a more global high performance that the RB21 and Verstappen excelled with.

And the Circuit Of The Americas is a very different track layout, with a greater spread of corner types; with the high-speed snake of the first sector and the slow-speed that appears at the start of sector three. 

Therefore, despite Norris' race being hampered by the brilliant defensive work of Charles Leclerc, Verstappen has been a credible force on different track layouts, which was not the case earlier this campaign. 

Formula 1 news & related links

• Verstappen wins US Grand Prix ahead of Norris to continue title push

• Max Verstappen says there's a 50-50 chance he'll win the 2025 title

• Piastri insists that 'mentality hasn't changed' after points lead cut

Tennessee's Tony Vitello reportedly 'torn' over historic Giants managerial opportunity originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The San Francisco Giants appear to be all in on Tony Vitello — a move that, if it happens, would be monumental. The Giants clearly like what Vitello is preaching, and in particular, Buster Posey seems to be captivated by the Tennessee head coach. While no formal decision has been made, Vitello has reportedly pitched Posey on a vision centered around beating the Los Angeles Dodgers.

“He’s the guy who probably convinced Buster Posey he could beat the Dodgers,” an industry source said. “No doubt in my mind that he walked in and said that. Just give me the horses.”

If Vitello does end up going to San Francisco, it would be an unprecedented move. However, on Sunday he was still at Tennessee, attending Volunteers practice in Knoxville. This is because Vitello is genuinely torn between staying at the program he built or accepting what many believe is his dream job.

“I don't think some understand how odd it is that Tony Vitello didn't immediately accept an offer to become an MLB manager. For a college coach to even consider staying is testament to how torn he is about the decision. Giants are a good org with arguably the world's best park,” WBIR’s Wes Rucker wrote.

Vitello is facing what may be the toughest decision of his life. It won’t be easy.

“Hard to think of many college coaches who wouldn't accept that offer while ripping off the arm of whoever extended it to them. Vitello loves Knoxville. He loves UT. This is HARD for him,” Rucker posted.

Vitello is simply the best thing to happen to Tennessee baseball in years, and he’s deeply beloved there. Still, the Giants present a truly attractive destination. He’s expected to make his final decision within the next day or two.

This entire situation is a calculated risk for the Giants. If Vitello is hired, it would mark a leap no one in MLB has made before. But if he turns them down, the Giants will have spent valuable time waiting — and that could cause them to miss out on other highly sought-after candidates.

More MLB news:

• Dodgers' $6 million veteran drops shocking retirement announcement after win over Phillies

• Dodgers' Dave Roberts declares bold 'ruin baseball' warning after clinching World Series spot

• Phillies reportedly parting ways with $100M 2-time All-Star, Silver Slugger after drama-filled year

• Dodgers could get $72M veteran reliever back for World Series after abrupt disappearance

• Braves' Brian Snitker, Chipper Jones spotted with NL Manager of the Year, sparking managerial buzz

• Braves predicted to trade for $75M Cy Young arm, forming trio with Chris Sale, Spencer Strider

• Braves' Ozzie Albies, Sean Murphy could face nightmare scenario after Brian Snitker's departure

• Braves predicted to replace Ha-Seong Kim with World Series MVP, Gold Glove in Matt Olson style move

• Detroit Tigers' historic $250M rift with Tarik Skubal sends clear message for Cy Young arm's future

• Cubs' Kyle Tucker dismisses potential Chicago return, hints at future decision with organization

• Phillies' Kyle Schwarber gets gigantic $150M contract update after MVP-caliber, career-best season

The post Alex Vlasic’s humble reaction to major Blackhawks leadership honor appeared first on ClutchPoints.

The Chicago Blackhawks have high hopes for Alex Vlasic and his potential in the NHL. Vlasic is one of a few very promising defensemen to skate with the Blackhawks in recent seasons. Artyom Levshunov has shown his skill, and Sam Rinzel has made an impression early on. However, Vlasic may be the team’s most important defenseman already.

Vlasic has emerged as a quality shutdown defenseman in the NHL. He has taken more and more responsibility with each passing season. And he’s shown the ability to contribute on the penalty kill. Despite only being 24, he is a leader in the locker room. This was made evident on Sunday when he wore an A on his sweater as an alternate captain against the Anaheim Ducks.

This is a big honor, especially for a player of his age. Adding to this is his connection to the Blackhawks franchise. He grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, and followed the team growing up. All of that made this decision much more surreal. Still, he remained rather humble when talking about it.

“It’s kind of weird, honestly. The first thing I noticed when I would come to games and you would see guys like Keith, Seabrook, Sharp, Kaner, all these guys wearing the A’s, it’s kind of crazy to think that kids are coming to games and looking at me the same way,” the Blackhawks defenseman said, via beat reporter Charlie Roumeliotis.

“I don’t feel like I’m that good or that much of a leader compared to those guys, but it definitely is a pinch-me moment. I’m super thankful for that. It’s a really cool opportunity.”

Vlasic did not score a point against the Ducks on Sunday night. However, he played a big role in their victory. He skated a little over 24 minutes of ice time against Anaheim. He blocked four shots and delivered two hits in the 2-1 overtime win.

The Blackhawks have shown some promise early in the season. Vlasic is a big reason why Chicago has earned some big wins. It seems as if he is becoming a complete player and an important presence in the locker room this season.

Related: Why Blackhawks’ Tyler Bertuzzi won’t comment on non-goal vs. Canucks

TORONTO — Julio Rodriguez took ball four, tossed his bat away, clapped twice and exhorted his teammates in the Seattle Mariners dugout. Sure, they were in a four-run hole in the third inning of Game 6 in this American League Championship Series, but Cal Raleigh, the likely AL MVP, was coming to the plate.

The score was fixing to be tied with one swing from a man who’s hit 64 home runs through the playoffs. Just one hanging splitter or mislocated fastball or cement-mixer slider from a 22-year-old rookie who was in Class AAA ball a month ago, and the Mariners would be on track for their first trip to the World Series.

Yet the Toronto Blue Jays were thinking something entirely different: Trey Yesavage, with all of six major league starts behind him, is no ordinary newcomer.

“When he has the ball,” Max Scherzer, the 41-year-old future Hall of Fame right-hander tells USA TODAY Sports, “we all believe in him.”

And so Yesavage threw just one split-fingered fastball to the MVP, and Raleigh scorched a 100-mph worm burner right to Vladimir Guerrero Jr., beginning a fundamentally gorgeous 3-6-1 double play that finished with Yesavage blindly finding the bag with his right foot.

It ended the threat and began an almost absurd sequence of three double-play grounders in three innings, guiding the Blue Jays toward a 6-2 victory that squared this series 3-3 and set the stage for the most pulsating delight in the sport.

Game 7, winner to the World Series, loser left with a winter of regrets.

For now, that loser won’t be the Blue Jays, who overcame a desultory Game 5 defeat to keep their season alive.

Give some flowers to Guerrero and Addison Barger for their home runs and Barger’s three RBIs, and closer Jeff Hoffman for his two near-perfect innings of relief.

But know this: The Blue Jays are a win away from their first World Series since 1993 because of a kid drafted 20th overall barely more than a year ago, who started the year in lowest Class A, climbed the ladder all the way to Toronto in September and has faced down October’s biggest demons to gain the trust of a veteran clubhouse and, in Game 6, the entirety of Canada’s baseball-watching population.

But how?

“He has this silent confidence,” says Blue Jays ace Kevin Gausman. “He’s kind of jokingly said he’s pitched in a lot of big games before (turning pro), and it’s funny that he thinks those were super-big games. But he really looked back on those and how he went about these, just with a bigger crowd.

“He’s not scared of anybody. Maybe he’s a little young and maybe naïve, but he’s just going to go after guys.”

That was the only way to escape the trouble that found him in Game 6.

An inning after Raleigh’s double play, the one-out drama returned, Seattle going single-single-walk to again load the bases. Now talk about going right at ‘em: Yesavage jumped ahead of J.P. Crawford with two quick strikes, and the splitter was back, Crawford grounding a one-hopper to Isiah Kiner-Falefa, who snagged it, threw to second and was already pointing to the sky before shortstop Andrés Giménez made the turn.

“His splitter is next level,” says Scherzer. “He’s making the best hitters in the game look foolish on it. It’s such a big pitch, it gets him out of so many dangerous situations.”

Blue Jays force another inning-ending double play!!

📺: FS1 pic.twitter.com/0F9jFWYGiD

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) October 20, 2025

Want one more? Fifth inning, a Dominic Canzone single, a Leo Rivas strikeout on a split, but now the lineup turned over. Yesavage’s pitch count had hit the 70s, and he’d suffered diminished velocity from his first playoff start against the Yankees (historic) and his second one in Game 2 against the Mariners (terrible).

What’s more, Rodriguez had scored a three-run homer off Yesavage in Game 2

So, how was your mental state at that time, John Schneider?

“Not great,” says the Blue Jays manager.

Not to worry. Rodriguez swung at a first-pitch fastball and this time it was Giménez turn to initiate, the 6-4-3 DP keeping the emotional edge – and the momentum – in the third base dugout.

That’s no small thing in an ALCS that, from the Blue Jays’ perspective, has gone loss-loss-win-win-loss-win. Lesser players might be dizzy from such a whirlwind.

“It’s everything. It’s such a momentum game,” says third baseman Ernie Clement, who had two more hits, giving him eight in the series. “You can see it the last couple games: Whoever has the momentum kind of rises and gets it done.

“For (Yesavage) to make those pitches in those situations show a lot of poise and maturity.”

He gave them 5 ⅔ innings, gave up two runs, struck out seven, setting down six in a row to set the tone before dodging trouble in epic fashion come the middle innings.

And with each escape, the 44,764 fans who stuffed Rogers Centre roared, the tension of the night releasing with each inning.

Not exactly East Carolina, where Yesavage was pitching a year ago. Not that he tried to block out the noise.

“It wasn't really how I had to deal with it,” he says. “It was how I could use it to my advantage.”

That’s one way to handle the stress, an ability that’s jumped out to his far more veteran teammates since the Blue Jays recalled him in September, hoping to workshop an October weapon out of a guy who ascended A, AA and AAA ball in just a few months.

“That’s what strikes you right away when you meet him: He’s very levelheaded, very calm,” says Hoffman. “He’s got a great presence about him and the fact he holds it in big games like this is a really good sign, a really cool thing for the Blue Jays for the future.

“You can see the makeup. And he’s got what it takes, and he’s got a great group of guys around him to help him any way we can moving forward.”

Yesavage’s work, finally, is done for the year. Every member of the Blue Jays pitching staff expects to be available for Game 7 except Yesavage, who can simply watch and learn, and marvel at this amazing opportunity to win a championship ring before he’s even spent a month in the big leagues.

At the same time: He’s the reason they’re still alive.

Says Guerrero: “I’m very proud of him: 22 years old, young, hungry and you can tell he goes out and does everything he can to win the game.” 

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Blue Jays' Trey Yesavage dominant stats in ALCS Game 6 vs Mariners

England dug in for a four-run victory over India to clinch a semifinal spot at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup on Sunday, leaving the tournament co-hosts in a five-way contest for the remaining place in the final four.

Chasing a winning target of 289, India stumbled from a position of strength to fall just short as they were restricted to 284-5 in their 50 overs.

India were on course for victory for much of their innings – Smriti Mandhana top-scored with 88, while skipper Harmanpreet Kaur hit a run-a-ball 70.

England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt picked up 2-47 and left-arm spinner Linsey Smith bowled a tight spell of 1-40 in 10 overs, including the key wicket of Mandhana, to apply the brakes on the home team and help pull off a stunning win.

It was India’s third straight loss – following defeats to Australia and South Africa – and stunned the home crowd at Holkar Stadium.

This was after England opted to bat first and posted 288-8, with Heather Knight contributing 109 off 91 balls.

England joined defending champions Australia and South Africa in the semifinals with a fourth win in five games. The four-time champions next play Australia on Wednesday at the same venue.

India are still fourth with four points from five games and need a massive turnaround in form against New Zealand on Thursday and Bangladesh on Sunday in their remaining two group games.

“Smriti’s dismissal was the turning point,” Kaur said. “We had sufficient batting to finish the game, but I don’t know how things went the other way. Credit to England – they kept bowling well and kept getting wickets.”

Co-hosts Sri Lanka take on Bangladesh in Navi Mumbai on Monday.

India come close

The chase did not get off to the best start. Pratika Rawal was caught behind for six, while Charlie Dean trapped Harleen Deol leg before wicket for 24.

Mandhana and Kaur then combined at 42-2, and the pair added 125 runs off 122 balls for the third wicket, with India seemingly cruising on a batting-friendly surface.

Kaur reached her half-century off 54 balls, while Mandhana was content with playing an anchoring role. She reached her second consecutive fifty off 60 balls.

Sciver-Brunt got the breakthrough to dismiss Kaur, but India were still favourites to win.

Deepti Sharma hit 50 off 57, and put on 67 off 66 with Mandhana.

India needed 62 off the last 60 deliveries, but momentum swung when Mandhana went for a big shot against Smith in the 42nd over and was caught on the boundary.

India slipped from 234-3 to 262-6 in 33 deliveries with Sharma out caught off Sophie Ecclestone (1-58) in the 47th over.

England piled on the pressure as Amanjot Kaur (18 not out) and Sneh Rana (10 not out) were unable to finish off the chase.

Knight shines

Knight scored her third ODI hundred to lead England’s innings.

England made a good start with openers Tammy Beaumont (22) and Amy Jones putting on 73 runs. Jones scored 56 off 68 balls.

Off-spinner Sharma accounted for both openers before Knight took over the innings, including a 113-run third-wicket stand with Sciver-Brunt (38 off 49).

“I got myself in and put down the accelerator. It felt like we needed 300 on that pitch, but it was frustrating to not get there in the end,” Knight said. “I was desperate to put in a statement performance for my 300th [international game] and I am pleased to do that.”

Knight reached her century off 86 balls, including 14 fours and a six. She was run out in the 45th over as England slipped towards the end, conceding five wickets for 31 runs across 5.1 overs.

Sharma returned figures of 4-51 in 10 overs and followed up with a half-century, but it was not enough on the day.

M.J. Baird brings you the top 10 plays from around Texoma sports for the week ending on October 19, 2025.

10. Kaydence Carney | Crowell
9. Joe Castles & Jamari Dean | Memorial
8. Lochlan Pardue | Jacksboro
7. Kinsler Ramsey & Aiden Butler | Harrold
6. Keylan Marks | City View
5. Tilon Harden | Throckmorton
4. Brodie Jackson | Petrolia
3. Liam Pritchard & Cooper Tea | Midwestern State
2. Sean Jastrub & Case Peacock | Midwestern State
1. Leeci Snyder & Marlene Myrvold | Midwestern State

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com.

Through the 2024-25 season, the Los Angeles Lakers have had a total of 506 players suit up for them, going back to their days in Minneapolis. Some were forgettable, some were serviceable, some were good and a select few were flat-out legendary.

As the Lakers embark on their 80th season of existence (they were founded back in 1946 as the Detroit Gems in the National Basketball League), LeBron Wire is taking a look at each player who has worn their jersey, whether it has been a purple and gold one or the ones they donned back in the Midwest during their early years.

Gene Stump, a 6-foot-2 wing, joined the Lakers for the 1949-50 season. In 23 games with them that season, he averaged 2.7 points and one rebound a game before finishing the year with the Waterloo Hawks.

He had spent the prior two seasons with the Boston Celtics before coming to Minneapolis. Stump's NBA career ended in 1950 after 26 games late that year with the Hawks.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Lakers jersey history No. 12 — Gene Stump

British-record signing Alexander Isak is not doing enough to justify starting ahead of Hugo Ekitike for Liverpool, says former England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney.

Sweden international Isak, 25, joined the Reds at the start of September from Newcastle for £125m, but has scored one goal - in the League Cup - in seven appearances in all competitions.

Sunday's defeat by Manchester United at Anfield was his third Premier League start in a row without scoring.

His fellow forward Ekitike, who was a substitute against the Red Devils, has scored four goals for Liverpool with three of those in the league.

"I wouldn't play Isak, he hasn't looked ready since coming from Newcastle," Rooney said on The Wayne Rooney Show.

"He hasn't trained, hasn't had a pre-season. It's so important. While Newcastle were training he was probably sat at home on the phone to his agent for six hours a day trying to get a move.

"It's so difficult when you don't have a pre-season. He might've done stuff by himself but he's paying the price of it.

"On performances, he doesn't deserve to be playing ahead of Ekitike."

Defeat by Manchester United was Liverpool's fourth loss in a row in all competitions, the first time they have endured such a run since November 2014.

Liverpool won the Premier League title last season and even though they started strongly this term with seven successive wins in all competitions, they have rarely put together consistently impressive displays across entire games.

"They've got a bit complacent," added Rooney.

"For Arne Slot, you forget because he won the Premier League, but he's still quite young - 46 years of age and this was the first time he's lost four in a row in his career.

"[Against Manchester United] he was arguing with the officials on the touchline, I haven't seen that before from him.

"We're starting to see things unfold which shows that there's pressure there."

• 'Liverpool blip now becomes something deeper'

What's going on with Mohamed Salah?

Another concern for Liverpool is the form of their talismanic forward Mohamed Salah, who Rooney believes is "in the top five greatest ever Premier League players".

The Egypt international was a key factor in Liverpool's title win last season, scoring 29 goals in 38 Premier League games.

However, he has looked a shadow of his usual self so far this season and struggled to make an impact against Manchester United - a side he had scored 16 goals against in 17 previous appearances.

"Salah has played a lot of games over the last few years and been the main man, carried that pressure," added Rooney.

Salah's future at Liverpool, who he joined from Roma in 2017, had appeared uncertain last year until he signed a new two-year contract in April.

Rooney added: "There was talk of him leaving, he signed a new deal but it wouldn't surprise me if in the summer he does leave the club.

"I have loved watching him, a fantastic player, but I think it might've caught up. You don't want to admit it but it does get you and next thing you're gone."

• Amorim's big moment - are Man Utd finally ready for lift off?

'Anfield win huge for Amorim'

The win for Manchester United was their first at Anfield since 2016.

Ruben Amorim has endured a largely difficult time at Manchester United so far but Sunday's win means they are up to ninth, but just two points behind fourth-placed Liverpool.

"It's such a huge win for the manager," Rooney said.

"I've questioned decisions, I've questioned tactics, I've questioned players' desire over this season and last season. That win is massive. To win at Anfield is not easy to do.

"The confidence that gives the players and the manager, I'll be the first to say he got it absolutely spot on.

"I hope we see more of it. Two points off Liverpool now. I really liked the performance and we know the players can do it, we have to see this on a consistent level."

• Follow your club with BBC Sport
• Listen to the latest Football Daily podcast
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A football club which is now offering free sessions for a range of different sports is helping to give young people a "positive outlet", organisers say.

Premier League (PL) Kicks, has offered free football sessions in Swindon, Wiltshire, for 19 years - and this year, has started to coach netball, basketball, tennis, tag rugby and badminton.

It says this expansion in options has led to more young women and girls signing up.

Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Philip Wilkinson said such schemes were crucial in keeping young people away from anti-social behaviour (ASB) and helping them to become "better citizens".

Up to 160 young people, aged 10-18, take part in free activities with PL Kicks at Foundation Park.

Coordinator Andy Tye said activities were shaped around what the children were interested in to make sure they "felt in control" of their sessions and "had a reason to keep coming back".

"We've tried to accommodate every sport we can across the week, and it's just gone from strength to strength," he said.

"We feel the free provision and our amazing team of coaches really does give a positive outlet for those young kids to get stuck into," he added.

Mr Tye said he was "really proud" to see an increase in girls signing up and engaging with their coaches, something which he said was "really important" for the organisation.

Friends Amelia and Evie, aged 10, said they joined due to the variety of sports on offer.

They said they enjoyed staying healthy and "using up all their energy, but in a good way".

Noah, aged 11, described the new multi-sport session as "fun" and a great opportunity to "train and get better at sports".

PL Kicks is funded by the PCC and the Premier League.

PCC Wilkinson said organised group activities offered a "respectful, responsible and compassionate" outlet for young people.

"This generation has come through Covid and that has isolated them and made them more vulnerable to unhealthy and dangerous pressures," he said.

"Getting them involved in team sports like this is a brilliant way of, in many ways, reintroducing them into society.

"Sport is a great medium to give young people diversionary activities," Wilkinson added.

Follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.

More stories like this

• PCC vows to tackle 'grim' town's anti-social behaviour
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Related internet links

• Premier League Kicks
• Wiltshire PCC

SIOUX CITY, IA (KCAU) – This week was by far the most to choose from. But let’s start with number 5. 

5. Some Pink on the Rink action where, after a nice turnover, Dallas Vieau would shake and bake, send it to Max Anderson, who would put it in the oven! Nice goal for the muskies!

4. Out at Dordt on Saturday, Isaac Kacmaryns would dive to intercept this tipped pass from Mount Marty. Excellent play by the linebacker.

3. Our third spot goes to another diving interception. This time, it’s Northwestern College’s Jordan Carter grabbing his second pick of the game from Chevalier.

2. A little bit of volleyball. But this top play goes to the whole Western Christian squad as they not only get it back over the net on a dive, then defend the quick spike, but also get the point after the strong rally.

1. The number one play has to go to the blocked PAT by Kylar Fritz, which helped seal Northwestern’s huge upset win over Morningside on Saturday, winning 14-13.

Thats our top 5 plays.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.

Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have acquired almost an armour-plating at Liverpool, with both so impervious to criticism that the club decided last summer to grant them two of the most lucrative contract extensions in the history of English football.

Salah’s alone is worth £50m until 2027, while the captain is scarcely the poor relation on £350,000 a week. While their signatures were heralded at the time as a triumph of patient negotiation, the money felt faintly obscene for two players with a combined age of 67. Sure enough, their contributions to a shambolic display against a mediocre Manchester United provide ample evidence that, just as their earnings have gone through the roof, their form has fallen off a cliff.

Two glaring examples of their downturns leapt out. The first took just a minute to materialise, as Van Dijk tracked back so dozily that Amad Diallo had time and space to weight the perfect pass for Bryan Mbeumo to strike.

"STAGGERING START!"

One minute on the clock and Mbeumo gives Man Utd the lead at Anfield! 🤯 pic.twitter.com/xOtXAcVYgp

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) October 19, 2025

The second was even more aggravating for a flustered Arne Slot. With Liverpool desperately chasing an equaliser, Salah, whose only two options were to score or square the ball to Florian Wirtz, contrived to do neither, his snatched shot slicing horribly wide. It was symptomatic of the Egyptian’s malaise in recent weeks, where he has compounded half-hearted efforts at defending with a tendency to rush his decision-making in sight of goal.

Harry Maguire with a MASSIVE header to send the away end wild! 😱 pic.twitter.com/moUtr2aDsj

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) October 19, 2025

The unpalatable truth is that Salah looks barely 20 per cent of the winger who electrified Liverpool’s title-winning campaign, where he became the first player in the top five European leagues to be directly involved in 50 goals in a single season. While he is still putting himself in superb positions, he seems strangely tentative whenever he has to pull the trigger, having scored just one goal from open play in his last seven. Just as his finishing is nowhere near his customary level, Van Dijk, at 34, has visibly lost a yard of pace, with his lackadaisical attempt at tracking Diallo suggesting he thought he could defend against him by aura alone.

‘Always start with the man in the mirror’

Roy Keane, not averse to slaughtering sacred cows, was withering about Van Dijk’s performance. “He signed a big contract, then you’re giving up loads of goals,” he said. “I’d be looking at him and asking, ‘What are you doing?’ Particularly as leader of the team. A couple of years ago, we talked about United parking the bus here and we were critical. Now they’ve scored two today, two last year, and you’re the centre-half. Always start with the man in the mirror. Van Dijk, if you’re the centre-half and your team are all of a sudden giving up loads of goals, and you’ve got new people coming to your club, you need to have a good look at yourself and think, ‘Am I really helping people?’”

There are many precedents in the Premier League for once-conscientious players to check out mentally once buttressed by lavish contract renewals. Take Marcus Rashford, who had a wondrous 30-goal season two years ago, only to become an expensive carthorse at United once he earned a five-year extension worth £325,000 a week. Mesut Özil, likewise, was never the same after Arsenal made him, in 2018, their highest-paid player ever, rewarding him to the tune of £350,000 a week. With such absurd numbers bringing their own pressure, Ozil could not cope, his attitude becoming so detached that then manager Unai Emery openly questioned his motivation.

Thankfully for Slot, Salah and Van Dijk are far from the stage where their investment in the cause can be doubted. But their struggles are of a magnitude where we can reasonably ask why Liverpool placed them in golden handcuffs at such a late phase of their careers. No player in his mid-30s, besides Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, has ever produced a standard to justify the money that Liverpool’s twin totems now command. Salah is exhibit A, appearing to take his foot off the accelerator almost the instant that the cash injection came through. His decline, which could be temporary, is such that you wonder if Slot will even start him in every game. Unthinkable? Well, so too was the fact that he was substituted after 85 minutes, with Jeremie Frimpong immediately offering a greater threat as his replacement.

Outwardly at least, the manager appears unruffled. “After games like these, it’s quite normal that people focus on individual players,” Slot said. “For the first five or six games it was the signings we made, now it’s Mo Salah.”

The evidence, however, does not lie. Salah has gone longer than ever without a non-penalty goal, scoring as many at Anfield this season as Harry Maguire. Van Dijk, similarly, loses his man more frequently than he ever did, with his technique at times verging on nonchalance. True, they have so much credit in the bank that most Liverpool supporters would not even dream of turning against them. But Slot needs to start seriously considering whether the players he once looked at as his linchpins are now, more often than not, his liabilities.

Manchester United are subject to takeover rumours once again.

Ineos

The chemicals company owned by British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe finally beat Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani, a Qatari banker in December 2023 for partial control of the club.

Nonetheless, whilst calling the shots on the football side of operations, Ratcliffe only owns 28.94% of the club.

Therefore, the Glazer family still own the majority of the club, even if they have taken a backseat on football operations.

This means that they could still technically sell United to someone who is not Ineos if they wish and there have been a flurry of rumours over potential buyers.

United Arab Emirates’ bid

It was revealed last week that an UAE group was interested in buying the football club.

Journalist Ben Jacobs revealed, “international holding company or IHC, which has been around for about three decades, have been part of talks to put together a perspective of a UAE-based Consortium.”

It was also suggested that legend Eric Cantona has been approached for an ambassador role for the bid.

David Beckham approached

The Sun report that “David Beckham has been approached by a group of UAE billionaires as they prepare a bid to buy Manchester United, according to sensational reports.”

It is stated that “an unknown consortium of investors from the UAE are said to be planning to make an offer for the shares controlled by the majority owners of United, the Glazers.”

What’s more, “they have approached the six-time Premier League champion and Treble winner to see if he would be willing to become an ambassador for the bid.”

Wayne Rooney and Eric Cantona are also said to be of interest but Beckham’s worldwide fame reportedly makes him the favourite.

The former England international has a net worth of £300 million and is already an owner of Salford City and Inter Miami.

Feature image Rich Storry via Getty Images

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The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

2025 Track Cycling World Championships

Venue: Velodromo Penalolen, Santiago, Chile Date: 22-26 October

Coverage: BBC Two, BBC Three, BBC Red Button, BBC iPlayer & BBC Sport Website & App

Great Britain are targeting a third straight world title in the women's team pursuit at the Track Cycling World Championships in Chile.

The British team took gold at Glasgow in 2023 before successfully defending their title in Denmark in 2024. The 2025 event takes place in Santiago from Wednesday 22 to Sunday 26 October.

Josie Knight, Jess Roberts, Katie Archibald, Anna Morris and Megan Barker return to take aim at gold once more, while Maddie Leech will make her World Championship debut after narrowly missing out on the women's omnium European title earlier this year.

Britain have dominated the women's team pursuit since its inception in 2008, winning eight gold medals, six silvers and two bronzes, failing to win a medal just once.

With the sustained success of the British team, Knight says she understands the pressure on the squad.

"It's just something that has come from the history of the event and the riders that have come before us," she said.

• How to follow Track Cycling World Championships on BBC
• GB win two more world golds on final day of Para-cycling Track World Championship

"They have set this precedent that British Cycling is one of the best teams in the world.

"Sometimes you can find yourselves thinking: 'How did we end up being these people?'

"You've had Laura Kenny and Elinor Barker and Joanna Rowsell setting such a standard for us that we want to keep that going."

Kenny won five Olympic and seven World Championship gold medals while Barker won Rio Olympic gold to go with seven world titles. Rowsell is a double Olympic and five-time world champion.

"People look at us as the best, whether or not we are," added Knight. "So we just have to take confidence from that and know that as much as we're looking at other nations, they're all looking at us.

"Nine times out of 10 we can do it, so we've got hope.

"I don't want to jinx anything but it would be really nice to win it three times in a row, that would be something special."

Roberts was part of the 2024 team and says the competition will be tough in Santiago.

"Everyone is so strong, I guess we're thinking about other teams as well," said Roberts, one of three Welsh riders in the sextet along with Morris and Barker.

"The strength in women's cycling now is really high, you've all just got to bring your A-game really."

With the addition of 22-year-old Leech, the make-up of the four riding in the team could look different again, but it is a challenge the squad are relishing.

"I think with the programme we have here at British Cycling, with the podium potential and the younger riders and the people in charge of coaching them, you know that whenever a younger one comes up they know what they're doing, they've done it," said Knight.

"They may have done it at a slower speed but you can instantly have that trust in them, so it's never a trust thing.

"It's just learning how someone does ride, it comes with it's challenges but it's part of the event and the beauty of team pursuit."

As well as the team pursuit, all the riders in the women's endurance team will also compete in individual events.

Knight will be seeking glory in the individual pursuit but will face stiff competition from fellow GB team member Morris, who has set two world records in the event this year.

Roberts will be looking to go one better from the silver she won in the omnium last year.

Chasing rainbows again

The rainbow jersey is the distinctive racing top worn by a reigning world champion in a cycling discipline, a tradition that has been going since 1927.

However, neither Roberts nor Knight have ridden with the rainbow stripes this year, with both taking a break from competition after the Paris 2024 Olympic cycle.

"I won in the team pursuit in Glasgow in front of a home crowd and that was the year before the Olympic games," said Knight.

"That was quite a lot of racing, so every time you pulled them on it was something special.

"I think that's what's really unique about cycling because when you win a world title, you have the special jersey to wear.

"Neither of us have really raced this year so we've not got to wear them, so we're making the most of it in training now - you won't see me on the track not in them."

The sentiment is echoed by Roberts: "I haven't raced in them so I'd love to, we'd love to win it again and hopefully actually race in it next year.

"Like Josie I'm just trying to wear it [the rainbow jersey] in training."

The ambition remains clear for the team as they prepare for the Santiago track.

"We all want to go and win that's what we're going there for," said Roberts.

"We're looking to put three solid rides together that we're proud of.

"You've got to look at how we execute it as well and that's all you can do, but for sure we're going for the rainbows."

• How to follow Track Cycling World Championships on BBC