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Many Nottingham Forest fans were quick to rush to Twitter to slate the performance of Sammy Ameobi during their Championship fixture on Saturday, despite the forward scoring twice in the 3-1 win.

Chris Hughton’s side have started to pick up some great form lately, and are now undefeated in their last seven matches (Sky Sports). This has not only seen them climb out of the relegation zone (SofaScore), but it has also seen them advance to the Fourth Round of the FA Cup.

Fans picked a rather peculiar target during Saturday’s win though, as one supporter tore into Ameobi and called him ‘lazy’ after he grabbed the first two goals on the day. That said, it appears fans may have a point, as some of the stats do reveal why there was frustration aimed at the player.

He lost five ground duels and all four of his aerial duels (SofaScore). He also lost possession 19 times, which was the second most on the pitch.

We suspect these supporters will be relieved the former Newcastle man was able to add some end product to an otherwise wasteful display, but the stats suggest their criticisms are just.

Here is how Leeds fans reacted to his performance:

“Does Ameobi ever hit the target”

Credit: @MedCLJS

“Why is Ameobi so slow with the ball.”

Credit: @NickBriggsNFFC

“Ameobi looks knackered after 10 mins. Stamina of a chihuahua”

Credit: @NJL82

“Ameobi stopped trying and reverted back to his lazy self showing his true colours #nffc”

Credit: @Jamsmitchell

“What will it take for Sammy Ameobi to put a bit of quality into the box? #NFFC”

Credit: @DGBCampbell

“Ameobi needs hooking. Another game there for the taking where he is completely anonymous #NFFC”

Credit: @mikewood77

In other news, fans were fuming with a tactical decision Chris Hughton made. Have a read what it was here!

Many Liverpool fans have been reacting to news that striker Divock Origi is to be offered in a swap deal for Schalke defender Ozan Kabak.

The 20-year-old centre-back has earned plenty of plaudits for his performances in the Bundesliga and his maturity at such a young age was called “astonishing” by Stuttgart sporting director Thomas Hitzelsperger during his time at Die Roten (cited by talkSPORT).

Sky Germany (via Anfield Edition) reported that the Reds have contacted Schalke over sending Origi the other way in exchange for Kabak.

The Kop faithful have heavily criticised the Belgian of late, with some suggesting that his time at the club has come to an end.

With Liverpool’s current injury crisis in the defensive department, supporters would welcome offloading the 25-year-old in exchange for Kabak.

Fans urge Liverpool to offload Origi for Kabak

“This sounds like it will be a good piece of business for both teams, more especially for Liverpool who needs a centre-back.”

Credit: @OmilaVincent2

“100% needs to happen.”

Credit: @RomeoKomTrikru

“Yes yes yes yes yes.”

Credit: @CaroleAnne1487

“We need a centre-back and it’s time for Origi to move on so I can see this deal happening in January.”

Credit: @1121LFC

“If this happens plus we get David Alaba its PL title secured back to back seasons.”

Credit: @Jhonny_Savage

“nahhhhhh no way I beg”

Credit: @MikeJones2k

In other news, Journalist provides conclusive five-word statement amid Mohamed Salah exit rumours.

Said Benrahma has left David Moyes powerless to omit the Algerian forward after the Brentford loanee excelled in West Ham United’s victory over Leeds on Friday night.

Moyes opted to hand Benrahma his first start in claret and blue following a late injury to Arthur Masuaku, which forced West Ham to deviate from the five-man defence which has inspired their solid form this season.

Benrahma had featured for just 78 minutes of Premier League football before the Hammers took to the pitch at Elland Road, as Moyes struggled to see a reason to bench his favoured attackers Pablo Fornals or Jarrod Bowen, believing the pair were playing “really well”.

In the end, Masuaku’s injury and a move to a four-man defence allowed Moyes to introduce Benrahma to his starting plans in behind striker Sebastien Haller to provide an added level of creativity beside Fornals and Bowen.

Benrahma upstaged his more established teammate Fornals with a game-changing display as the Hammers clinched a 2-1 win to move up to fifth in the table, with more points beside their name after the opening 12 games than early high-flyers Everton and title-hopefuls Manchester City.

Former Irons defender Anton Ferdinand was among the hordes to applaud the 25-year-old for his performance, seemingly confident that only good things can come from the £5million loan signing who West Ham are obliged to buy for £20m next year.

“Benrahma looks like he could be a maverick for us,” Ferdinand shared in a post on Twitter. “Loves the ball at his feet, very comfy and loves to make things happen!”

VAR stole the show at Elland Road when Mateusz Klich was allowed to retake his penalty after Lukasz Fabianski was deemed to have been off his line whilst making the initial save, but Benrahma’s performance ensured a spotlight focused on him as well.

The six-time Algeria international may not have registered a third assist of the season to pair with his game-winning involvement in goals against Fulham or Aston Villa, and may still be without a maiden goal for West Ham, yet achieved what Moyes tasked him with being. A nuisance for Leeds star Kalvin Phillips.

West Ham often found themselves without possession while Benrahma was on the field, as Marcelo Bielsa’s Whites controlled 65.7% of the ball before Moyes opted to introduce Mark Noble six minutes from time to instil an added defensive presence in the engine room.

Yet Benrahma still recorded the joint-second-most touches by a visiting player with 45, only Aaron Cresswell (52) took more, and played one key ball from 15 accurate passes, per WhoScored.

Benrahma came into his own when with an eye for goal, as he unleashed a game-high six efforts on Illan Meslier’s net, though only forcing the Leeds’ shot-stopper into making a save once.

Only Bowen could match his 100% dribble success rate, too, among any Irons player to feature, with Benrahma able to beat his marker with each of his three attempts as the £23,077-per-week forward won five of nine ground duels, per SofaScore.

Moyes will no doubt like to see Benrahma fine-tune his shooting, but is now powerless to omit the 25-year-old from his starting plans after seeing what he can bring to the side having bided his time for a chance to shine.

AND in other news, a £27m-rated West Ham dud is playing on borrowed time after a shocking showing at Leeds United.

Rising Wolves starlet Niall Ennis has completed a season-long loan move to Burton Albion. The deal was nudged over the line in the dying embers of the transfer window, coming on the EFL deadline day.

Speaking to the club, manager Jake Buxton has expressed his delight over signing the 21-year-old, who could be about to hit a turning point in his career.

Could Ennis succeed Jimenez?

At the moment, Raul Jimenez is untouchable in Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad. The Mexico international continues to impress with his unstoppable form in front of goal, already netting twice in four Premier League fixtures. Last season was a particularly impressive one for Jimenez, who bagged himself 27 goals in total (via Transfermarkt).

The star striker still has four years left on his current contract but other clubs will be circling like sharks. Manchester United have already made it known that they are keen on his services, coming close to striking a deal during the summer transfer window. Jimenez will likely stay at Molineux as long as Wolves continue to improve, however a dip in form could turn the 29-year-old’s head. Silverware will undoubtedly be at the forefront of his mind and if a club like United return, he may be tempted.

Nuno will know this and will expect offers to come flooding in once again for Jimenez. The clever tactic to build up Ennis could be the club’s way of preparing for a potential departure.

The Wanderers were in talks with Plymouth Argyle over a short-term deal for Ennis last year and manager Ryan Lowe waxed lyrical over the youngster.

“Niall Ennis is a fantastic footballer. He has represented England, he’s a quality striker,” the 42-year-old told the Plymouth Herald.

Playing for a side like Burton, who are in dire need of a boost in the league, could bring out the best in Ennis. The Brewers are currently rooted to the bottom of the table and are crying out for a goalscorer, with the Wolves man equally eager to showcase his abilities.

In other news, Raul Jimenez can give Wolves the win over Leeds by exploiting Robin Koch weaknesses…

As Glasgow Rangers get ready for the Old Firm Derby against Celtic., Steven Gerrard is facing a selection headache.

Rangers are doing quite well at the moment. The Gers are still unbeaten this season and they’ve taken seven points from a possible nine available as they sit top at the Scottish Premiership table. Now, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, but Gerrard may be tempted to tinker with his team after the international break.

Jordan Jones comes good (again)

Speaking to Sky Sports, Gareth McAuley has heaped praise on Jordan Jones. The 25-year-old has bounced back from the brink after all the signs seemed to suggest that he was headed for the exit in the summer.

And the former Rangers defender insisted the winger can be a key player for the Gers. He said: “There were many who believed he was finished at Ibrox but he has never lost faith, put the head down and worked hard. I’m thrilled for Jordan. Full of confidence, he can be a top player for Rangers.”

Gerrard quite clearly rates Jones very highly indeed as he has started two out of the past three fixtures instead of Ianis Hagi, so his recent run of form has left the Liverpool legend with a touch decision to make.

Tough choice

This is going to be one of the biggest selection headaches that the 40-year-old has faced at the Ibrox outfit so far.

At the moment, Hagi and Ryan Kent have been Gerrard’s preferred wide options, but the right winger has been dropped from the starting XI several times in recent weeks. The ever-reliable Ryan Kent has started every game he has played this season so far, so it’s fair to say his place in the side is assured.

The Northern Irishman attacking midfielder, who has predominantly played on the left wing in the past, has been praised by the Rangers boss for his performances in recent weeks, whilst he returned the favour by scoring in the 5-1 win over Motherwell in September. Jones has also started the Gers’ last game against Ross County since then.

On the other hand, Hagi has hardly done himself any favours at all after cutting a frustrated figure as his national team were hammered by Norway in the Nations League on Sunday night. He is also highly-rated by Gerrard, but the manager must consider his options carefully when he decides to reintegrate him into the team. Dropping Jones now with so much still at stake would be an incredibly harsh decision.

AND in other news, Rangers dealt blow ahead of Old Firm Derby as Borna Barisic absent from Croatia squad…

According to The Daily Mirror, Wolves are interested in signing Liverpool star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in this summer transfer window.

What’s the word?

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side have already done business with the Reds in recent days, with Diogo Jota making the big-money to Anfield.

Now, The Daily Mirror claim that the Reds’ capture of Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago could force Oxlade-Chamberlain into a move away from Merseyside, and that Wolves hope to convince him.

Spot the fact from the fib: Are these Premier League records true or false?

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The report further adds Jurgen Klopp’s side will look to recoup much of the £25m they paid Arsenal to initially sign him back in the summer of 2017 if they are to sell the England international.

Nuno’s dream signing

Much like one of their earlier summer transfer targets, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Oxlade-Chamberlain is equally as versatile, but crucially, has been playing in a side that has been competing for every possible major honour in European football in his time at Liverpool.

Able to play in central midfield, as well as even as a wing-back, full-back or winger, the 27-year-old would bring a wealth of experience and give Wolves another string to their bow.

Nuno could better rotate his squad having someone like Oxlade-Chamberlain in his ranks, and he has got all the physical attributes to be a real force for the Molineux side.

Speaking back in October after his goal-scoring display against Genk in the Champions League, Rio Ferdinand said: “You can tell Klopp loves him and he’s desperate to get him in the team somehow. He offers something totally different to the likes of Milner, Wijnaldum, Fabinho and Henderson. He can dribble past people which is hard for a midfielder. It’s great to see him get back in. I like the way that he gets into those positions.

“Once he gets into those pockets in behind the opposition’s midfield he can dribble and shoot. He’s a fantastic footballer and it’s all about decision making there. He offers something totally different in the midfield for Liverpool.”

If Wolves can convince Liverpool to sell Oxlade-Chamberlain, then they would be getting a major coup.

After coming on as a second-half substitute against Dundee United, Celtic new boy Albian Ajeti introduced himself to Scottish football by firing home the winner seven minutes from time.

The Switzerland international had just joined from Premier League side West Ham earlier this month in a deal worth around £4.5m, with Neil Lennon quick to sing his praises after the match. The Hoops boss said: “He’s had an early impact already and that’s great for us. He’s not match fit, he’s not had a lot of football in the last 12 months. But he did great to keep the ball alive for the goal and his link-up play was good as well. It’s brilliant for him.”

But whilst Ajeti may have been the match-winner on the day, it was Ryan Christie who arguably stole the show for Celtic, making sure Dundee United goalkeeper Benjamin Siegrist earned his pay-cheque.

Can you name every one of the Celtic’s top goalscorers from the past 15 seasons? It’s a tricky one…

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As per Sofascore, out of the 23 total shots that Celtic took, nine of them were taken by Christie, with three finding the target, three being blocked by some desperate defending and another three missing their mark.

The 25-year-old was unlucky not to get onto the score-sheet at least once, with Siegrist pulling off a stunning save to deny a strike destined for the top corner. And of course, it was Christie’s strike that eventually led to Ajeti’s goal.

But aside from that, the Scotland international was a real live-wire throughout the match, completing all eight of his attempted dribbles – to put that incredible statistic into context, if you combined the rest of Christie’s teammates, as well as the entire Dundee United side, you would only get seven successful dribbles.

The attacking midfielder wasn’t shy of doing his defensive work either, making three tackles and winning a mammoth 13 duels out of the 16 that he contested on the ground.

It was an all-action display from the Celtic ace, and whilst Ajeti may be taking home the plaudits, it was he who was the real hero for Lennon on Saturday.

After starting the new Scottish Premiership campaign with a flawless start, Rangers were brought back to Earth somewhat with a hugely disappointing 0-0 draw to Livingston.

Steven Gerrard’s side racked up an incredible 23 shots in total, but only three of them hit the target. The Gers dominated the ball too, registering a whopping 79% possession, but just didn’t have the cutting edge to find that killer goal.

One man who didn’t enjoy the greatest of games in the middle of the park, was Ryan Jack.

Are you a massive Rangers fan? Know everything about the club? Well do you know your Gary Stevens from your Michael Ball? This quiz will separate the loyal from the fake…

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As per Sofascore, the midfielder finished with 128 passes completed, by far the most of anyone on the pitch. But many of those passes were either side-ways or backwards, and there was no real penetration.

Despite having 150 touches of the ball, he only made two key passes in the entire game, whilst he also lost possession 14 times. And after seeing his performance, Rangers fans flooded to Twitter to share their reactions.

A couple of fans were particularly strong in their criticism of Jack’s performance, claiming that he is a “waste of a jersey”.

Another couple of supporters took issue with Jack’s decision to play square passes, rather than upping the tempo of a game by moving the ball forward.

When you see much of the ball as Jack did against Livingston on Sunday afternoon, then you simply have to do more with it.

Rangers were crying out for someone to show a bit of ingenuity and class to try and unlock the door, but instead, Jack just slowed the momentum of the game and made everything far too easy for the opposition.

With the transfer window open, it’s an area where Gerrard may look to strengthen this summer.

Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce has given a fresh injury update on Florian Lejeune as he spoke in his press conference (via ChronicleLive) ahead of the Tyneside club’s Premier League clash against Eddie Howe’s AFC Bournemouth side this evening.

As per the outlet, the coach said that the defender has “picked up a nasty thigh injury” from when the Magpies played Hull City in a friendly game behind closed doors last month in preparation for the 2019/20 season to restart.

Bruce’s team won that match, 2-0 with Lejeune incidentally getting himself on the scoresheet alongside Allan Saint-Maximin (as per Vavel).

Nevertheless, the central defender could potentially be out for the rest of the campaign, which would be a blow to the Toon – in his six Premier League matches this season, Lejeune has won four duels per game and also averaged 2.2 clearances, 1.7 interceptions and 1.3 tackles per game, according to Sofascore.

He may not have start every upcoming match, but the 29-year old could be a useful player to have on the bench if one of Newcastle’s centre-backs gets injured, or even tactically if Bruce wants to see the match out and put on an extra body to help defensively.

However, it seems possible that Lejeune may miss the rest of the season, meaning that the manager will have to rely on the likes of Jamaal Lascelles and Federico Fernandez to stay fit in the heart of his defence.

Only time will tell whether Lejeune missing will make any real difference, but his absence could be a real blow for Newcastle.

Geordies, is Lejeune’s injury a major blow to Newcastle? Comment below with your views!

The Daily Record has suggested that Glasgow Rangers make a move for Ilia Gruev after his contract at Werder Bremen recently came to an end.

The 20-year-old made the move to Bremen in 2015, and has played for their youth teams ever since. He has previously been compared to Fernando Redondo, but he failed to make a single appearance for the Bundesliga outfit, and he is now available on a free transfer. Whilst he is still without experience at the highest level, he could be a no-risk signing for Steven Gerrard.

Although he did not play for Bremen’s first team in the previous campaign, he did appear for their second team in the Regionalliga Nord. In 15 matches, he managed two goals and four assists, which is not a bad return for someone who is primarily a defensive midfielder. Bremen have had a very difficult term in the Bundesliga in the previous campaign, only staying up via the relegation play-off against Heidenheim, and even then only on away goals – manager Florian Kohfeldt had little opportunity to give inexperienced players their first opportunities in professional football.

Now out of contract, and with wages that are unlikely to be through the roof, Gruev could be a bargain for Ross Wilson and co at Ibrox. He is still very young and could certainly improve and with a Transfermarkt value of £180,000, taking him for nothing would surely be decent business.

Let us know what you think below!