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Acting chair Imran Khwaja can take the permanent role if he maintains current voting deadlock for another two rounds

Daniel Brettig and Osman Samiuddin19-Nov-2020Greg Barclay, New Zealand Cricket’s representative on the ICC board, is one vote away from becoming chair of the global governing body, with India’s imprimatur, but the acting chair Imran Khwaja will be able to take the permanent role if he can maintain the current voting deadlock for another two rounds.ESPNcricinfo has learned that Barclay, the NZC chairman, emerged with a 10-6 majority in the first round of voting held on Wednesday, one short of the 11 votes required for a two-thirds majority and the chair under the ICC constitution. The quirks of the system allow for the incumbent, in this case Singapore’s Khwaja, to hang onto the chair if three rounds of voting pass without a two-thirds majority being reached.While the voting takes place by secret ballot, Barclay was understood to have entered the process with the backing of the BCCI, Cricket Australia and the ECB – the “big three” bloc that took a controlling financial stake in world cricket’s affairs in 2014 before their changes were walked back somewhat under the chairmanship of Shashank Manohar from 2015 to June this year.ALSO READ: Three rounds of voting to select new ICC chairmanKhwaja, a long-term representative for the interests of the game’s smaller nations, served as Manohar’s deputy and was the first candidate to emerge in opposition to the ECB’s former chairman Colin Graves, who was forced to drop out of the race earlier this year once his earlier support from the BCCI evaporated due to Barclay’s candidacy and hesitance among other nations.Having joined the ICC as the NZC representative in 2014, Barclay has earned a reputation as an honest broker and won respect from numerous more seasoned cricket administrators in that time. Nevertheless, some doubts have remained about his ability to “carry the room” as an independent chair given the strong influences of the BCCI, ECB, and CA.Sourav Ganguly, the BCCI president, has been a notable force in the jockeying for votes, working the phones to discuss matters of the game’s governance with undecided board members. It is unclear which side of the voting divide the ICC’s independent board director, Indra Nooyi, has landed on.Unsurprisingly, the central conflict so far as votes are concerned has revolved largely around money, and the ability of two contrasting world views to deliver more cash over the next broadcast rights cycle to Member nations.Khwaja’s position, shared by the experienced PCB president Ehsan Mani and the ICC chief executive Manu Sawhney, is that the staging of as many ICC events as possible, packed up in a long-term broadcast deal, stands the best chance to offer a more significant portion of money to the nations that need it most – essentially all boards other than those of India, England, and Australia.The opposite view is that bilateral tours, buttressed by the additional context of the World Test Championship and the ODI league, can still provide vital cashflow to all nations involved, balanced out with still frequent but fewer ICC events. There was particular consternation when Sawhney proposed the re-introduction of a Champions Trophy-style event in years not already occupied by ODI or T20 World Cups. By way of a rebuttal, Ganguly has spoken of an annual tournament involving India, Australia, England and one other nation on a rotation basis.Another tension is that between the ICC board as the game’s peak decision-making body and the striving of ICC management to have a greater say as to cricket’s global direction. This much was made clear in the recent advertising of a new position, that of “vice-president – strategy”.Its position description includes the following summary: “The role will report to the ICC’s Chief Executive Officer and will be responsible to support in formulating and implementing the ICC’s strategy, with a focus on key critical projects, building the future of the sport, business development and best practices by working closely with key stakeholders.”This is the kind of modus operandi that the ICC’s Members have long deemed to be the territory of Member chairs in discussion at the board table, rather than a function of management. The ICC’s governance is also under review, in a process led by the CA chair Earl Eddings, after it was commissioned by Manohar shortly prior to his departure.

Former Yorkshire player gives testimony to legal team probing racism allegations

George Dobell13-Nov-2020

Azeem Rafiq has spoken out about racism at Yorkshire•Getty Images

Azeem Rafiq has told the legal firm investigating his allegations of racism at Yorkshire that he was “bullied and targeted because of my race” while representing the club.Rafiq, who followed his statement by appearing before the investigation team by video link on November 13 to field questions, also claimed Asian players were sometimes referred to as “Pakis” or “elephant washers” and that he experienced non-white players being told to “go back to where you came from”.He also reiterated the claim he had previously made to ESPNcricinfo that the experience left him “feeling suicidal” and played a significant part in ending his career.His damning statement also refers to “communication” which he alleges “reflected broader conversations and club culture” which stated “only a few Pakis are okay to go through. We cannot have too many of them”.It goes on to express discomfort about the “drinking culture at the club and within cricket” and the “peer pressure to participate” amid general “insensitivity towards Muslim players and supporters”. This, Azeem says, includes “incidents of racist comments” from the team’s supporters and “incidents of alcohol being thrown at matches, including on Asian supporters, which were not investigated or properly addressed”.He claims he was “ridiculed” for not drinking and was excluded from social events as a result. He says not “becoming part of that social scene very much reflected on how I was treated in the dressing room and on the field” so he “gave into social pressure”.”It was so important to me to feel accepted, to not feel isolated, to not feel shunned, I was letting go of those values that were so important to me by consuming alcohol,” Rafiq said. “Subconsciously, I was being made to change who I was, not because it was required for me to become the best sportsman in my field… but simply for the reason of being in an environment that would not leave me isolated.”Rafiq goes on to outline examples of “racist comments” disguised as “banter” he experienced. He describes this as “constant abuse” which led him to “feel worthless and totally isolated”. He says he raised his concerns with the club but “nothing was done” to address them.He said he could only estimate 60 days where “I have enjoyed playing cricket with the club where I have not had to endure abuse”.He continued: “The remainder of my time at the club has been filled with many dark moments where I have been left isolated, lonely, bullied and targeted because of my race. If my race had not played a part in this treatment, I would have witnessed other British white players treated in the same manner.”I was singled out specifically because I was Asian. It was as if I was being reprimanded for my race by engaging with white players as if to remind me that it was not my place, that I did not belong with them.”Yorkshire launched the investigation in September after Rafiq’s interview with ESPNcricinfo. It is being run by the legal firm, Squire Patton Boggs, with a sub-committee that includes several prominent figures within the British-Asian cricket community appointed to review the information.The club have previously expressed the hope that the panel will complete their report before the end of the year, though issues with the composition of the sub-committee may have caused delays. Rafiq’s legal team raised concerns over two members of the panel, neither of whom remain on it, saying he had previously registered his concerns with them and was underwhelmed by the lack of response. The club have also declined to publish the terms of reference of the enquiry and dismissed concerns of conflict of interest despite the fact the club chairman, Roger Hutton, used to work for Squire Patton Boggs.”I have spoken out about the racism I faced because I don’t want kids to go through what I did,” Rafiq, who has launched a Crowd Justice page to help cover his legal costs, said in the statement. “I want to see kids starting off their journey in cricket in a culture of acceptance and respect, where they are judged on their talent and not on their culture and identity.”I hope that the investigation will result in meaningful change at the club and in the sport. I am grateful for the outpouring of support and words of encouragement I have received, in particular from parents who have shared their concerns about how their kids have been treated and who want to see change.”In a statement issued on Friday, Yorkshire County Cricket Club said: “We have taken the claims made by our former player, Azeem Rafiq, very seriously and a full investigation conducted by Squire Patton Boggs, an independent law firm, began in September. Mr Rafiq’s written statement was made available last week and he will give further verbal evidence today. These statements will then be made available to the club to provide a response to as part of the next phase of the process.”We realise that that this is a difficult time for all parties involved but it is important that these matters are investigated thoroughly and swiftly.”In addition, and recognising that this process is as much about the future as it is the past, we have convened an independent panel to support the investigation and to publish recommendations on steps the club may need to take as a result of the investigation’s findings. Chaired by Dr Samir Pathak, surgeon and trustee of the MCC Foundation, the panel includes Mesba Ahmed, vice Chairman of the National Asian Cricket Council, employment barrister Rehana Azib, former Waitrose Personnel Director Helen Hyde and Stephen Willis, CFO of Durham University and the senior independent director of Yorkshire County Cricket Club.”Racism has no place in our society or in cricket and we are hopeful that the outcome of this investigation and the recommendations of the panel will drive positive progress which can be shared by all.”

Aston Villa are ready to part ways with one of their highest earners this summer as they look to balance their books amid financial fair play concerns.

Aston Villa may need to sell key player this summer

After posting losses in excess of £120m this season, there is a fear that financial fair play rules may be breached at Villa Park if they are not careful.

Though they clinched Champions League football and the added revenue that accompanies it courtesy of finishing fourth in the Premier League, reports claimed that they may have to sell "at least one key player" if they wish to spend heavily this summer.

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So far, Unai Emery's side have looked to sidestep that with low-cost targets, with the club in talks to keep Ross Barkley in the Premier League after he was relegated with Luton, while they are also reportedly "close" to a deal for free agent Mario Hermoso, who they could beat Inter Milan to.

But now, they may look to raise funds to spend a little bigger, and are hoping to kick it off with one of their highest earners.

Philippe Coutinho set to depart Aston Villa

Now, it has emerged that Philippe Coutinho will be leaving the club permanently this summer after a spell away on loan, with the Brazilian unwanted by Emery.

Regarded as something of a coup when he arrived at Villa Park, the 31-year-old appeared just twice this season before joining Qatari side Al-Duhail FC, where he has scored six goals in 20 appearances across all competitions.

One of the club's highest earners, he is under contract until 2026 but is unlikely to add to his 43 appearances for Villa and is seemingly certain to depart this summer amid interest from Brazil. Reports last week revealed that Villa were looking for just £6m to part ways with him, in a move that could see them take in around £20m when his wage savings are also accounted for.

Aston Villa's highest earners

Players

Wages (per week)

Boubacar Kamara

£150,000

Clement Lenglet

£150,000

Youri Tielemans

£150,000

Philippe Coutinho

£135,000

Moussa Diaby

£130,000

Ollie Watkins

£130,000

Now, a fresh update has hammered that point home, with Football Insider revealing that he is no longer in consideration for Emery and that there is "no way back" for the Brazilian under the Villa manager.

His place could well be taken by the seemingly incoming Barkley, who will likely arrive on a fraction of the hefty wages that Coutinho currently takes home. However, it is added that any departure may have to be in part subsidised by Villa, with few clubs likely to match the salary paid to the ex-Liverpool man even if they are willing to stump up the required transfer fee.

Coutinho's departure, along with the imminent return to Barcelona of loanee Clement Lenglet, will free up funds at Villa Park as they look to keep themselves afloat and continue strengthening in spite of financial fair play restraints.

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Titular do Vila Nova-GO, o meia Renan Mota, ex-Santos, Oeste e Figueirense, quer uma boa sequência do clube na Série B do Campeonato Brasileiro. Segundo o atleta, a meta é crescer de produção em 2021.

Mion assume o Caldeirão: veja o time dos principais apresentadores da TV

– O grupo tem trabalhado para encostar no grupo dos quatro primeiros colocados. Temos condições disso. O mais importante é manter uma intensidade para chegarmos a esse importante objetivo. – disse.

VEJA TABELA E SIMULE OS RESULTADOS DA SÉRIE B

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Renan ainda falou sobre o duelo desta terça-feira (10) com o Vasco, fora de casa, em São Januário.

– O Vasco tem uma grande equipe e em casa é sempre muito forte. Vamos lutar muito para fazer um ótimo jogo para vencermos fora de casa. Esse é o objetivo de todos. – afirmou.

It's been a real up-and-down season for Tottenham Hotspur this year, but it would be fair to say that Ange Postecoglou has adapted to life in the Premier League reasonably well.

The Australian has instilled an attacking philosophy in his team that has seen the Spurs faithful treated to some of the best football in the league.

However, with 61 goals conceded, the defence could be slightly improved, and while Micky van de Ven has shown his class at points this campaign, the latest defender touted for a move to N17 could threaten his place in the team.

Tottenham Hotspur transfer news

According to a recent report from the MailOnline's Simon Jones, Tottenham are one of three Premier League sides interested in signing Everton's star centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite ahead of the summer transfer window.

The report revealed that both Manchester United and Manchester City are also keen on the Englishman and that offers in the region of £50m could be made.

However, the Toffees, understandably reluctant to lose the jewel in their defence, could hold out for even more should the interest be strong enough.

Signing the 21-year-old wouldn't be easy for Daniel Levy and Co, considering the competition and possible final price. Still, given his impressive displays this year and the Lilywhites' leaky defence, it would be worth pursuing, even at the expense of Van de Ven.

How Branthwaite compares to Van de Ven

Now, if the North Londoners were to get their man and spend more than £50m in doing so, they wouldn't just let him sit on the bench as a backup option: he would play.

That means that one of Cristian Romero or Van de Ven would have to make way in the starting lineup, or at least share minutes, and considering the former is the club's vice-captain, a firm fan favourite and a World Cup winner, it would likely be the latter.

With that said, then, how does Branthwaite stack up against the Spurs ace?

Well, from an underlying numbers perspective, it's relatively close, with the Dutchman predictably coming out ahead in areas such as progressive passes and carries, passing accuracy, and successful take-ons, all per 90.

However, when it comes to the defensive metrics and some attacking ones, too, it's a comfortable win for the Toffees ace.

Non-Penalty Expected Goals +Assists

0.08

0.02

Progressive Passes

2.14

4.15

Progressive Carries

0.06

0.73

Passing Accuracy

79.8%

93.8%

Goal-Creating Actions

0.12

0.04

Shot-Creating Actions

0.72

0.42

Tackles

1.91

1.88

Blocks

1.47

0.96

Interceptions

1.45

0.69

Clearances

4.71

3.00

Successful Take-Ons

0.14

0.58

Dispossessed

0.06

0.46

Aerial Duels Won

2.72

1.46

For example, Everton's "absolute monster," as described by talent scout Jacek Kulig, produces a higher non-penalty expected goal and assists figure, more shot and goal-creating actions, wins far more aerial duels, is dispossessed less often, and makes more tackles, blocks, interceptions, and clearances, all per 90.

There is one significant advantage the former Wolfsburg ace has over his potential replacement, though: speed. Against Brentford earlier this year, the 23-year-old registered the fastest sprint in Premier League history at 37.38km/h, which, while not noticeably slow, is not something the Englishman can bring to the table.

However, the Englishman is an inch taller, which could come in handy for defending set pieces, and if he can help bring more defensive durability to Postecoglou's backline through his superior underlying metrics, then he may not have to rely upon his speed as much.

Ultimately, while Van de Ven is a very talented footballer and will likely remain an important member of the Lilywhites' squad going forward, Levy and Co must try to sign Branthwaite. His defensive output is evidently more impressive, and he could help to add some real solidity to a backline that has leaked 61 goals this season.

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Leeds United remain unbeaten after four matches, with U.S. international Brenden Aaronson playing a crucial role in their latest victory.

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Leeds defeat Hull 2-0USMNT's Aaronson plays 90 minutesMidfielder celebrated by fans postmatchWHAT HAPPENED?

U.S. international midfielder Brenden Aaronson was at his creative best, logging 90 minutes as Leeds United defeated Hull City 2-0 in English Championship action Saturday. The club continued their unbeaten start to the season through four matches and Aaronson's hot start has played a key role.

Goals from Mateo Joseph and Joel Piroe powered the win, while Aaronson thrived once again at the No. 10 position in his second-straight start of the Championship campaign.

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Aaronson completed 32 of 35 attempted passes while creating two big chances and generating one shot on target. He had 57 total touches of the ball, and was tasked with taking three corner kicks during the contest as well.

His fourth Championship appearance of the season, the 23-year-old American already has two goals this season. With another solid performance under his belt, he was applauded by supporters post-match, and even gave his kit to a young fan in the stands after the final whistle. That is a stark contrast to earlier in his time at Leeds, where he was sometimes the subject of the fans' ire.

DID YOU KNOW?

Aaronson joined Leeds United in the summer of 2022 but struggled in his first season. Following Leeds' relegation to the Championship, he was loaned to Bundesliga side Union Berlin for the 2023-24 campaign. Now, in 2024-25, Aaronson has returned and vowed to help the club fight for promotion to the English Premier League again.

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Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR AARONSON?

Leeds are back in action on Sept. 14 against Burnley., who trail them by one point in the standings, will look to hand Aaronson and co. their first loss of the campaign.

Liverpool dropped points again in the race for the Premier League title as they were held to a 2-2 draw by West Ham United at the London Stadium on Saturday.

The Reds had lost to Everton in the Merseyside derby on Wednesday night at Goodison Park and followed that up with a disappointing result in the capital.

Jurgen Klopp will be moving on from Liverpool after almost nine years at the club in the summer and was involved in an argument with one of the stars of his tenure – Mohamed Salah – against the Hammers.

The pair engaged in a verbal tussle on the touchline just before Michail Antonio's equaliser, and teammates Joe Gomez and Darwin Nunez had to push him away from the boss.

Salah, who came on with 11 minutes left to play, told reporters after the match: "If I speak today there will be fire."

Dutch manager Arne Slot, who Fabrizio Romano has reported will be Klopp's replacement, may now have a difficult situation to manage with the star forward in the summer, and could brutally ditch the winger by securing a deal for one of the club's reported targets.

Liverpool's interest in former Manchester City star

It was reported in February that the Premier League giants have their eyes on Bayern Munich wizard and former Manchester City star Leroy Sane.

Bild reporter Christian Falk, as relayed by Football365, claimed in February that the Germany international is one of the players on Liverpool's shortlist of targets ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

The journalist added that the left-footed magician is aware of the interest from the English outfit but has not made his feelings clear on a possible move to Anfield, to join the club he once competed against with Pep Guardiola's side.

Falk also claimed that Salah could be on his way to Saudi Arabia, after the club rejected an offer from a Pro League team last summer, but a final decision has yet to be made on that front.

TalkSPORT recently reported that teams from Saudi Arabia are expected to go back in for the left-footed ace ahead of next season, with offers in excess of £70m expected to come in for his services.

Meanwhile, Sane's current contract with Bayern Munich expires in the summer of 2025 and Liverpool could swoop to take advantage of that situation this summer, unless he puts pen to paper on an extension with the Bavarian outfit before then.

This suggests that Slot could potentially ditch Salah, by selling him to a team from the Saudi Pro League amid the interest in his services, by making an early move to sign the Bayern titan to replace him on the right flank.

Mohamed Salah's form for Liverpool in the Premier League

The 31-year-old forward, who turns 32 in June, has not enjoyed his best form in front of goal for the Reds so far in the Premier League this season.

His finishing has left a bit to be desired with a return of 17 goals from an xG (Expected Goals) of 18.91, with 14 'big chances' missed in total.

Salah's form in the final third has been particularly worrying in recent weeks. He has produced zero goals from open play and zero assists in his last eight appearances in all competitions, with two goals from the penalty spot in that time.

His last non-penalty goal came against Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League on the 31st of March, a game in which the attacker took a staggering 12 shots and missed two 'big chances'.

His recent struggles at the top end of the pitch may have contributed to the frustration that led to his exchange with Klopp at the London Stadium.

Ex-Reds defender and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher claimed that Salah was "frustrated" and "angry" that he was not starting, and added that the attacker's words to the media – about there being fire if he spoke – were "daft".

There could now be a natural parting of the ways in the summer, with Slot's arrival from Feyenoord signalling the start of a new era at Anfield.

Salah was a colossal part of Klopp's reign, with 210 goals in 346 matches for the club in all competitions to date, but the German's exit, his recent form, and the interest from Saudi Arabia means that it could make sense to brutally move on from him.

Why Liverpool should sign Leroy Sane

A departure for the 31-year-old phenom would leave a gaping hole in the Liverpool attack on the right of the front three and it is one that could be filled by Sane.

Not only has the German been in phenomenal form for Bayern Munich in recent seasons, but he is also a proven Premier League performer who would not need time to adapt to England or the division.

The talented whiz, who is also a left-footed attacker who plays on the right wing, spent four years with Manchester City between 2016 and 2020.

In that time, Sane racked up 39 goals and 43 assists in 135 appearances in all competitions – more than one goal contribution every other match on average – and won two Premier League titles.

This shows that the winger knows what it takes to be successful in this country, both in terms of winning trophies and producing high-quality end product in the final third on a regular basis.

Appearances

26

29

xG

10.94

17

Goals

8

18.91

xA

9.51

6.92

Assists

11

9

Key passes per game

2.8

2.2

Dribbles completed per game

3.6

0.8

As you can see in the table above, Sane has also been in fantastic form for Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga as both a scorer and a creator of goals.

Salah has the edge on him when it comes to goals, with nine more strikes, but has also had far more quality chances created for him by his teammates.

Whereas, the £331k-per-week star has been better when it comes to splitting open opposition defences to create opportunities for others, with more xA and more assists despite playing three fewer league games, to go along with more key passes and dribbles per game.

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The 28-year-old dynamo, who was hailed as "dangerous" by Thomas Muller earlier this season, has the quality to be a constant threat down the right wing, as Salah has been for Liverpool over the years, based on his form for Bayern and City.

Therefore, Slot could brutally move on from the Egypt international – who could be sold to Saudi Arabia – by making an early move to sign Sane as one of his first acts in charge of the club.

Liverpool have been urged by one journalist to capitalise on their transfer advantage and sign a transformative player this summer.

FSG laying groundwork for post-Klopp era

Liverpool are braced for major change this summer, with Jurgen Klopp set to leave the club and Mohamed Salah entering the final year of his contract at Anfield.

Currently challenging for the Premier League and Europa League titles, the Reds will be looking for a smooth transition away from the German, while also hoping to bolster a squad that has been ravaged by injuries this season.

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They have been linked with a midfielder for much of the campaign, despite signing four last summer, and it appears that there could be major change in that department again ahead of the 2024-25 season.

Dean Jones wowed by midfield target

Atalanta star Teun Koopmeiners has enjoyed an excellent campaign to date, with 10 goals and 3 assists to his name in 25 Serie A outings, but clearly wants to seek out pastures new. Koopmeiners has already issued a come and get me plea to clubs around Europe this summer, explaining last week that he wanted out of Italy this summer.

"Last year there was concrete interest from Napoli. However, in the end the two clubs did not find an agreement. I told Atalanta that in the coming summer I want to leave," the 26 year-old told Dutch outlet De Telegraaf.

Liverpool have emerged as the clear frontrunner and FSG are even said to be ready to bid for the versatile midfielder, leading journalist Dean Jones to heap praise on the player and how he would perform in England.

“Teun Koopmeiners would be an unbelievable addition to the Premier League", he explained. "There is long-standing interest in him from Newcastle. While that evaporated, the club now really gaining traction with a move for him are Liverpool.

“I do think there is a slot there at Liverpool that they might look towards filling and if they got Koopmeiners, their potential would be pretty devastating."

Teun Koopmeiners vs Liverpool midfielders in domestic leagues 23/24
	Teun Koopmeiners	Alexis MacAllister	Dominik Szoboszlai	Curtis Jones	Ryan Gravenberch
Appearances	25	23	23	17	19
Goals and Assists	13	7	5	2	0
Pass accuracy	77.3%	86.5%	82.8%	90.4%	82%
Tackles and interceptions (per 90)	1.72	4.53	2.08	2.55	3.3
Shots on target (per 90)	0.56	0.25	0.57	0.38	0.64

“The fact he is adding fuel to the fire now by talking about life in England definitely suggests he is becoming open to the move, and that might be in mind with the fact Atalanta have not quite kicked on at the top end of the table this season”, he added.

With Thiago Alcantara out of contract this summer, a move for Koopmeiners may prove the perfect replacement. However, the €60m asking price may prove something of a stumbling block for any move for the Dutchman, and there is also no clear Jurgen Klopp replacement yet, meaning that any deal may well have to wait until later in the transfer window.

Tottenham could move for a 22-goal forward this summer, after claims his club will let him go for just £17 million.

Spurs hunting for new striker as Postecoglou eyes Kane replacement

Ange Postecoglou deserves real praise for guiding Spurs to a potential top four finish in their first full season without club-record goalscorer Harry Kane.

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While the Spurs boss is adamant that sealing Champions League qualification is not his full focus, sourcing a way to replicate Kane's 25-plus-goals-per-season was never an easy feat.

The likes of Son Heung-min and Richarlison, who've scored that number of goals between them in the Premier League this season, have been key for Postecoglou alongside other members of the squad.

Goals and assists have come from all areas of the pitch in Postecoglou's fluid, interchangeable system – with right-back Pedro Porro contributing seven assists and getting on the scoresheet once with a sublime finish against Nottingham Forest last weekend.

However, while Kane's absence hasn't really been felt this term, reports suggest that Tottenham could look to bring an "A-list" striker this summer. Big names like Brentford star Ivan Toney, who is very likely to leave his club in the next window, have been named as potential targets for Postecoglou.

“I’d say go and get him,” exclaimed pundit Alan Hutton to Tottenham News on whether Spurs should bring in someone like Toney.

"Of course, £60million is a lot but he’s a goalscorer. He does it Brentford week in and week out, he’s got really good stats, he looks like a leader and he’s grown in stature. You can see how confident he is, taking penalties for England is no problem, he’s just a cool, calm customer.

“Yes, Richarlison has done alright but I don’t think he’s an Ivan Toney, I don’t think he’ll get you the goals he could do. I think that takes Spurs to the next level if he can continue his goalscoring form for the next coming season."

Lesser-known options are also appearing via the media on a consistent basis. Eintracht Frankfurt star Omar Marmoush is attracting interest from Spurs, while Feyenoord striker Santiago Gimenez has been repeatedly linked this week.

Another who's been sporadically mentioned is Union St.Gilloise striker Mohamed Amoura.

Tottenham could make a move for Amoura after £17m claim

The Algerian, who's been called his country's biggest star since Riyad Mahrez, could leave for as little as £17 million despite scoring an impressive 22 goals in all competitions this campaign.

Union 2-1 Liverpool

9.09

Union 1-1 Toulouse

7.47

Union 2-1 LASK

6.96

Liverpool 2-0 Union

6.40

LASK 3-0 Union

5.71

GiveMeSport have an update this week, and they claim Tottenham could make a move to sign Amoura this summer as the Lilywhites actively search for new number nines.

Postecoglou's reliance on the likes of Son is something which they intend to fix when the window reopens, and they've been conducting checks on Amoura ahead of a possible swoop later this year.

The 23-year-old only arrived at Union from FC Lugano last summer, but given the growing clamour for his services, he could well be on the move again.

New South Wales opener Nick Larkin held firm with a half-century against an in-form Victoria attack on a low-scoring day at the MCG.Larkin was the only Blues player to pass 50 as they were reduced to 6 for 149 before an unbeaten 74-run stand from Peter Nevill and Sean Abbott saved the day for the visitors.Victoria’s attack led by Peter Siddle and James Pattinson gave nothing away with four of the five bowlers used conceding less than two runs an over. Larkin faced 116 balls for his 50 with just three fours, weathering some high-quality fast bowling from Siddle and Pattinson. His patience eventually wore thin, falling to a top-edged slog sweep off Jon Holland.When Siddle induced a false stroke from Nick Bertus after tea, the Blues looked in danger of being bowled out for under 200. But a steadying partnership from Nevill and Abbott steered them to stumps. Nevill reach 40 not out without a boundary, while Abbott made an enterprising 45 to frustrate Victoria late on day one.