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Liverpool extended their unbeaten start to the new Premier League campaign after seeing off Leeds United 3-0 at Elland Road.

The Reds took control of proceedings on the 20th minute after a frantic and open start to the game when Mohamed Salah scored the 100th Premier League goal of his career.

Brazilian international Fabinho then poked home a close-range finish following a Virgil van Dijk flick-on from a corner, putting the 19-time English champions firmly in the driving seat just five minutes after the half-time interval.

However, a serious-looking injury to 18-year-old midfielder Harvey Elliott tarnished the game soon after.

What appeared to be an innocuous-looking challenge from Pascal Struijk saw the teenager leave the field on a stretcher, with several teammates looking on in horror.

The incident led to Struijk receiving a red card from referee Craig Pawson, and Liverpool saw the remaining half an hour out with ease against the 10-men of Leeds.

An injury-time goal for Sadio Mane rounded off a convincing 3-0 win for the Anfield outfit as they kept pace with Manchester United and Chelsea at the top of the Premier League standings, capping an afternoon full of mixed emotions for Klopp.

And despite Salah’s landmark strike, the German tactician will have been especially pleased with the performance of Thiago in the Liverpool engine room.

As per SofaScore, the Spain international received a match rating of 7.9 out of 10, the joint-highest total for any player on the pitch in south Yorkshire.

The 30-year-old had a stellar afternoon for the Reds, providing one assist and two key passes for his colleagues as he controlled proceedings in the middle of the park.

Thiago also achieved a passing accuracy of 90%, pulling off all of the four long balls he attempted during his time on the pitch and only losing possession nine times, highlighting his influence over Liverpool’s play.

But the technically gifted maestro also put in a solid defensive shift as well, winning six of his seven duels while making four tackles and two interceptions.

The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich ace put in a fantastic display on his first start of the season, and he’ll be hoping to feature from the off on a regular basis in the weeks and months to come.

And, in other news…Konate starts, £13.5m-rated gem axed as Klopp makes three changes: Predicted LFC XI 

Thilan Samaraweera, the Sri Lankan batsman, feels Bangladesh will be unable to mount a Mirpur-like challenge in the fourth innings, with conditions in Chittagong not very conducive for batting

Cricinfo staff05-Jan-2009
Thilan Samaraweera, who scored an unbeaten 72 on Monday, feels the current lead will be enough for Bangladesh © AFP
Thilan Samaraweera, the Sri Lanka batsman, feels Bangladesh will be unable to mount a Mirpur-like challenge in the fourth innings, with conditions in Chittagong not very conducive for batting.”The two wickets are totally different,” he said after ending the third day unbeaten on 72. “Here it is not easy to play shots, that is the important difference and you have to bat very straight from the start to the end. The Dhaka [Mirpur] wicket got better and better each day but this one is uneven and getting slower. There are cracks developing and if you bowl slowly then it gets very difficult to play strokes.”In Mirpur, Bangladesh scored 414 chasing an improbable 521 and another target in excess of 500 is on the cards for the hosts, with Sri Lanka having already raked up a 472-run lead with six wickets remaining in their second innings.”I think 400 is a safe score. We didn’t declare today probably because the bowlers needed a rest after bowling long spells. Someone like Murali [Muttiah Muralitharan] has bowled 70-odd overs already.”The lead was boosted by an unbroken 131-run stand between Samaraweera and Tillakaratne Dilshan. The two finished unbeaten on 72 and 81 respectively, but Samaraweera said it would be up to the team management on whether they are given the chance to reach their hundreds.Although the focus has been on the spin pairing of Muttiah Muralitharan and Ajantha Mendis, Samaraweera felt the new ball would play a vital role like in the first innings, when Chaminda Vaas and Dilhara Fernando gave the spinners a head start with early wickets.Samaraweera was not too positive about batting on the final two days, but his Bangladesh counterpart Raqibul Hasan felt patience was the key. “Just like we did in Dhaka we will try to play session by session without thinking about the target. The pitch is slow and some balls tend to keep low but it is not alarming.”

Express and Star journalist Luke Hatfield believes it will take a serious bid for Aston Villa to consider selling Douglas Luiz before the deadline.

Birmingham Live reported that AS Roma head coach Jose Mourinho remains interested in Luiz ahead of the 11pm cut-off on Tuesday and that Luiz was a name mentioned not long after Mourinho took charge of the club.

The 23-year-old, defensive midfielder has made 78 appearances for Aston Villa during his time with the club, including playing Villa’s last two Premier League matches against Newcastle United and Brentford.

Luiz is now an Olympic Gold Medallist, as he was part of the Brazil team which went undefeated through the Olympics this summer and defeated Spain in the final 2-1 after extra-time.

Whilst there is interest in his signature from Roma, Hatfield believes it will take a serious bid for Villa to consider selling him, telling Transfer Tavern: “I don’t know how keen Villa would be to let him go now. Obviously if there was an offer which was too good to refuse then they’d probably consider it and have to wave goodbye to Luiz. 

“I think Villa will have been impressed by the way that Luiz has come back from action in South America and at the Olympics and he actually put in a really good performance on his return as well against Newcastle, I was pretty impressed by him.

“So, I’d be surprised if they’re willing to let him leave before the transfer window closes, but you know money talks, so if Roma come in with a serious bid and Villa think they can reinvest that cash in another area or in another player then maybe it’s one they consider.”

Villa have had a brilliant summer, strengthening their squad with real quality. With the new signings and getting four points from a possible nine so far in the Premier League, Villa will be hoping to improve on last season’s eleventh placed Premier League finish.

Derby County have been dealt a knockout blow in their bid to bring Tom Carroll to Pride Park this summer.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to a report by the BBC, who revealed that the former Queens Park Rangers midfielder has joined League One outfit Ipswich Town on a one-year deal.

The 29-year-old had spent a large chunk of pre-season on trial with Wayne Rooney’s side, but with a recent report revealing that Derby are unable to make further additions to their squad due to Mel Morris’ lack of assurances to the EFL regarding funds, the club have now missed out on the former England under-21 international.

Rooney will be fuming

With Rooney recently revealing that he is working around the clock in order to try and secure deals for the players in training with the club before they were snapped up by other club, the fact that Carroll has now joined Ipswich – seemingly as a direct result of Morris’ lack of action regarding his issues with the EFL – must leave the 35-year-old fuming with the club’s owner.

Indeed, the midfielder would have been a fantastic addition to Rooney’s options in the middle of the park, with the 29-year-old impressing for QPR – who also attempted to re-sign the player this summer – last season.

Over his 22 Championship appearances for Mark Warburton’s side last term, the £1.62m-rated man provided one assist and created three big chances for his teammates, taking an average of 0.5 shots and making 1.1 key passes per game.

The man who Jamie Carragher once dubbed an “outstanding” player also impressed in metrics more typical of his position, making an average of 0.6 interceptions, 1.3 tackles and 0.7 clearances and winning 2.7 duels per match.

As such, considering these impressive performances, as well as Derby’s distinct lack of depth in central midfield, the signing of the £35k-per-week Carroll would have appeared to be something of a perfect deal for Rooney before the closure of the transfer window.

However, with the former Tottenham Hotspur man now playing his football in League One with the Tractor Boys, the Derby boss will need to turn his attention elsewhere in the summer market, with time starting to run out for the 35-year-old to get his business done.

In other news: Alan Nixon drops worrying Mel Morris claim which will leave Derby County fans fuming

In a change from last season, the Pentangular Cup, played between Pakistan’s provinces, will kick off the first-class season when defending champions Sind take on runners-up Federal Areas in Karachi next week.On the same day, October 25, Baluchistan, who were at the bottom of the table last season, will start their four-day match against North West Frontier Province (NWFP) in Quetta. Punjab will play their first game in Islamabad against the Federal Areas between October 31 and November 3. Each team will play the other once, with the final in Lahore from November 24 to 28.The Pakistan Cricket Board had wanted the tournament’s format revamped to avoid the lopsided nature of some of the results in the previous edition – particularly in matches involving under-strength teams like Balochistan and NWFP – but failed to convince the regional associations on the changes. The tournament’s format has changed frequently since its inception in the early 1970s, with the number of teams at times going up to as many as seven.Last season the tournament was played in March and the championship was decided on the basis of points at the end of ten matches. Sind took home Rs1 million as the Cup winners.

A number of Liverpool supporters were impressed with Harvey Elliott’s performance in the Reds’ 4-3 defeat to Hertha Berlin on Thursday.

Jurgen Klopp’s side played well in their friendly defeat to the Bundesliga outfit, even if the eventual result suggests otherwise.

It was more invaluable minutes in the legs for Liverpool’s players, and most pleasingly, both Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez made a return to action.

[freshpress-quiz id=“359326”]

Elliott started the game in a No.8 role, playing deeper than he is accustomed to, with the 18-year-old often out on the right-wing instead.

The youngster shone during his 45 minutes on the pitch, looking a class act in possession and playing with a maturity beyond his years.

The hope is that Elliott can be a genuinely reliable squad player for the Reds this season, replacing Xherdan Shaqiri seamlessly.

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Liverpool fans hail Elliott’s performance

These Reds fans took to Twitter to laud Elliott’s impact against Hertha, as his reputation continues to grow.

“Harvey Elliott has really showed this pre-season why Klopp is keeping him at Liverpool. Adds a lot of creativity to the midfield, intelligent and strategic presser, works hard, very mature for his age – on and off the pitch. Fills a hybrid-role of being a creator and hard worker.”

Credit: @MaaxiAngelo

“Harvey Elliott as an attacking midfielder excites me. Arguably hasn’t got the pace yet to be a natural winger but certainly has the technical ability to provide from behind the three”

Credit: @dan_clubbe

“Imagine wanting to sign Chiesa when we have Harvey Elliott”

Credit: @ThatRexGuyAgain

“Wouldn’t be shocked if he breaks into the first team. Absolute baller”

Credit: @NikaBochorishv3

“Watched a few Blackburn games last season and he was the standout player when I saw him. Gonna be a big player”

Credit: @Iandigilogue

“Think we have a little left-footed Coutinho-esque magician”

Credit: @ChrisDubYa22

In other news, some Liverpool fans have been left stunned by one transfer rumour. Read more here.

The ICC and Cricket Australia have confirmed the fixtures and venues for the 2009 Women’s World Cup in Australia

Cricinfo staff17-Jul-2008Women’s World Cup 2009 Group A: Australia, New Zealand, West Indies, South Africa
Group B: India, England, Sri Lanka, Pakistan
Venues: Sydney, Bankstown, Bowral, Canberra, Newcastle, Drummoyne
Opening games: India v Pakistan (Bowral), England v Sri Lanka (Canberra)
Format: The top three sides in each group go forward to the Super Six stage where each side plays the teams to have qualified from the other group. The top two sides from the Super Six proceed to the final.Six venues in New South Wales, Australia, will host the 2009 Women’s World Cup between March 7 and 22, the ICC and Cricket Australia confirmed today. Just like the women’s World Twenty20 next year, traditional rivals – India-Pakistan and Australia-New Zealand have been drawn in the same groups. The most significant development in this edition is that for the first time since 1973, the tournament comes under the umbrella of the ICC, following its merger with the International Women’s Cricket Council (IWCC) in 2005.”It is a best-of-the-best event that happens once every four years. It showcases all that is great about women’s cricket, and the ICC is delighted to have it under its umbrella for the first time,” David Morgan, the ICC president said.”The profile allows us to grow women’s cricket in the same way we have with the men’s game over several years, and we are already starting to see the benefit of the merger with the IWCC through ever-increasing coverage and the financial benefits for the top players that flow from that.”Significantly, coverage of the tournament is set to get a tremendous boost with ESPN Star Sports, the ICC’s television partners, set to cover at least six of the 25 games live. All six will take place at the North Sydney Oval, also the venue for the final.Leading women cricketers have welcomed the ICC’s initiative in uplifting the profile of the game, thanks to the television deal.”Events like these will enable women’s cricket to promote the game at the highest level,” Australia’s Lisa Sthalekar said. “The reason for this is that with at least six matches televised it will make the game more accessible to a wider audience. Thanks to this exposure it is only a matter of time before cricket will be competing with other high-profile women’s sports.”Charlotte Edwards, the England captain, said she was looking forward to her fourth World Cup.”It’s any captain’s dream to win a World Cup and the way we have played over the last twelve months puts us in a good position going into this one,” Edwards said. “A lot of the team has been playing together over the last four years or so, so we’re really gelling as a unit and it’s something that’s in the back of our minds as we go into these Natwest Women’s Series against South Africa and India.”Playing the tournament in Australia makes it even more special, particularly the fact that it’s in Sydney, a city we all love. We honestly can’t wait to get out there and test ourselves against the best in the world.”

West Brom are still working on re-signing midfielder Okay Yokuslu this summer, following an impressive spell at the Hawthorns last season.

The Lowdown: Yokuslu shines for West Brom

The Baggies were relegated from the Premier League last season, but Yokuslu was one of the few positives to come out of the campaign.

The 27-year-old joined West Brom on loan in the January transfer window and went on to make 16 league appearances, ranking as the club’s best player during that period (Whoscored).

Yokuslu has returned to permanent club Celta Vigo for the time being, but another move may be on the cards.

The Latest: Baggies working on deal

According to AS, West Brom are trying to make progress in their attempts to bring back the 37-time capped Turkey international.

Watford are also thought to be interested in a move, however, with their Premier League status potentially working in their favour.

The Verdict: Exciting news for supporters

Yokuslu became a popular figure at West Brom last season, so this update is sure to excite some supporters, as Valerien Ismael looks to bolster his squad.

The fact that the Turk shone in the top-flight despite his side’s struggles suggests he could be a real force in the Championship, dominating midfield battles with his tenacity and ability.

Yokuslu enjoyed an average of 2.6 aerial duels, 2.4 tackles and 2.2 interceptions per game in the Premier League last season, showing what a strong defensive presence he is, not to mention averaging 1.2 dribbles per match.

That combination of physicality and quality on the ball could make a huge impact in the heart of the Baggies’ midfield.

In other news, one West Brom player is thought to be a ‘prime target’ for one club. Find out who it is here.

Celtic have finalised the signing of former Watford midfielder Bosun Lawal, according to Football Insider.

The Lowdown: Lawal profiled

Lawal is 18 years of age and is an Irish midfielder. His contract at Vicarage Road expired last month, but the Hoops will have to pay compensation for the available teenager.

He was named Watford’s 2020/21 academy player of the season but never managed to break into the Hornets’ first-team squad.

Celtic have already signed youngsters Liam Shaw, Osaze Urhoghide and Joey Dawson this summer, and it seems as if Lawal will be their fourth addition of the window.

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The Latest: Source shares development on midfielder

According to Football Insider, who were informed by a Celtic source, the Hoops have had a six-figure compensation bid accepted for Lawal.

He passed a medical and signed a contract on Tuesday, with Football Insider claiming a deal is now completed and ready to be announced.

The Verdict: Time for senior additions…

It’s good to see that Celtic are bringing some young talents to Parkhead, as that was one of their transfer strategies way back in the New Year.

However, the Hoops now need senior additions fairly quickly, with the new season around the corner.

Ange Postecoglou is prioritising a right-back, centre-back and a winger as areas to strengthen, but it doesn’t look like he’ll get any senior additions in before the club’s Champions League qualifier, as the deadline to be registered is on Thursday.

If the new manager cannot secure qualification due to the club’s inactivity in the market, it would be a worrying sign that nothing has changed at the club despite some different personnel at the top.

In other news: Celtic on verge of deal for 13-goal forward as agent who sealed Ismaila Soro transfer steps in.

Derek Kenway has reversed his verbal decision to leave the county, being prepared to battle to regain his place in the first XI next season

Richard Isaacs18-Sep-2002Derek Kenway has reversed his verbal decision to leave the county, being prepared to battle to regain his place in the first XI next season.The Fareham-born batsman/wicket-keeper had initially spoken a request to be released from his contract which still had two years to run, in an effort to secure more first team opportunities, coupled with his desire to keep wicket.But a change of heart by the former England Academy student, who has struck 3,050 in 62 first-class matches since making his debut in 1997 for Hampshire, as well as 1,764 in limited-overs cricket, will see the club retain the 24-year-olds’ services.
Derek Kenway
Photo Mike Atkelsky
At the Hampshire Cricket press conference on Wednesday afternoon, chairman Rod Bransgrove declared, “Derek was unhappy about certain things, but had never really confirmed his intention to leave.”Kenway, contrary to media reports had not handed in a written request to be released, and after speaking with Tim Tremlett and Bransgrove, said “I am very happy to be staying. Hampshire is my home and the cricket club means everything to me.”This news will scupper Nottinghamshire seemed interest in the batsman/wicket-keeper, although Bransgrove did state that nothing really had changed in the interim period with regard to Kenway’s desire to keep-wicket.