Mateta’s Masterclass Earns Praise as Palace Rescue Point Against Leicester

Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta has received high praise from BBC football pundit Troy Deeney after his stunning brace secured a 2-2 draw against Leicester City on Saturday.

Mateta’s impressive performance, which included a last-gasp penalty in the 92nd minute, denied the Foxes their first Premier League win since returning from the Championship.

Deeney, writing for the BBC, hailed Mateta as “an absolute joy to watch” and included him in his Premier League Team of the Week. “He was a beast and a real threat,” Deeney said. “Big, powerful, and obviously scored the decisive goal to get them back on track.”

The Frenchman’s double rescued Palace from a two-goal deficit, courtesy of Jamie Vardy and Stephy Mavididi’s first-half efforts.

Mateta’s Resurgence

Mateta’s impressive display comes after a goalless start to the 2024/25 campaign. However, his breakthrough 2023/24 season saw him finish with 21 goal contributions in 35 Premier League outings, ending the year as Palace’s top scorer.

The 27-year-old has been an integral part of Palace’s attack since joining in January 2022, making 111 appearances across all competitions, scoring 33 goals, and registering seven assists.

“Mateta’s pace, power, and finishing ability make him a nightmare for defenders,” Deeney added. “He’s a game-changer, and Palace’s hopes of climbing the table rest heavily on his shoulders.”

Contract Talks on the Horizon

According to the Sunday Mirror, Palace are considering offering Mateta an improved deal to extend his stay at Selhurst Park, with his current agreement expiring in less than 24 months.

Mateta currently earns £50,000 per week, making him the joint-10th top earner at the club, per Capology.

Palace and Leicester Still Searching for First Win

Both Palace and Leicester remain winless after four matches, occupying 15th and 16th spots in the table, respectively.

The Eagles will hope Mateta’s resurgence sparks a turnaround in their fortunes, starting with their next outing.

Manager’s Verdict

Palace manager Oliver Glasner praised Mateta’s impact, saying: “Jean-Philippe is a vital player for us. His goals changed the game, and we’re delighted to have him.”

Glasner will be eager to see Mateta replicate this form consistently, especially with the club’s newfound reliance on him following Michael Olise’s departure to Bayern Munich.

Squad Depth to Be Put to Ultimate Test as Record Signing Misses Wolves Tie, Paving Way for Fringe Players to Step Up- Wolves Boosted by Brighton’s Key Player Absence in Carabao Cup Third-Round Showdown

Brighton & Hove Albion’s record signing Georginio Rutter will miss Wednesday’s Carabao Cup third-round tie against Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Amex Stadium due to being cup-tied.

Rutter, 22, joined Brighton from Leeds United in a £40m summer transfer and has made two appearances for the Seagulls, including his home debut against Ipswich Town last Saturday. The French striker impressed in the 0-0 draw, but his effort from the edge of the box was denied by Ipswich goalkeeper Arijanet Muric.

Rutter’s absence comes as a blow to manager Fabian Huerzeler, who praised the striker’s adaptability and confidence. “Everybody gave me a warm welcome here,” Rutter said after his home debut. “I try to be positive and have a good adaptation. It’s the Premier League, a different intensity. I try to do my best in training and on the pitch.”

Rutter’s cup tie status stems from his 63rd-minute substitute appearance for Leeds in their 3-0 first-round loss to Middlesbrough. He will hope to return to Premier League action against Nottingham Forest on Sunday.

In Rutter’s absence, Brighton boss Huerzeler is expected to make several changes for the Wolves clash. Striker Evan Ferguson may make his first start of the season, while defenders Tariq Lamptey, Adam Webster, Igor Julio, and Pervis Estupinan could feature. New signing Brajan Gruda may debut, and Ferdi Kadıoğlu, who impressed off the bench against Ipswich, is poised for his first start.

Midfielder Mats Wieffer is also in line to return from injury, providing a boost to Brighton’s midfield options. The German’s return will be welcomed by Huerzeler, who faces a challenging task in rotating his squad while maintaining momentum.

Brighton’s Carabao Cup campaign has been relatively successful in recent years, with the Seagulls reaching the quarterfinals in 2020. However, progression to the next round will require a strong team performance against Wolves.

Wolves, who have struggled in the Premier League this season, will view the Carabao Cup as an opportunity to revive their campaign. Brighton must be wary of their opponents’ threat, particularly given the absence of Rutter.

Possible Brighton XI:

Sanchez; Lamptey, Webster, Julio, Estupinan; Wieffer, Caicedo; Kadıoğlu, Ferguson, Mitoma; Gruda

Injury News:

Mats Wieffer (returning from injury)

Cup-Tied:

Georginio Rutter

Up Next:

Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Nottingham Forest (Premier League)

Sunday, [Date], Amex Stadium

The Seagulls will seek to advance in the Carabao Cup without their record signing, relying on squad depth to overcome Wolves. With key players returning from injury and new signings eager to impress, Brighton remains confident in their ability to secure a positive result.

Huerzeler’s squad rotation will be crucial in maintaining momentum, and the German manager will hope to strike the right balance between experience and youth. As Brighton navigates the challenges of the Carabao Cup, their Premier League ambitions remain paramount.

Rutter’s absence may prove a blessing in disguise, allowing other players to step up and showcase their talents. Brighton’s response to this setback will define their season, and Wednesday’s clash against Wolves presents an opportunity to demonstrate their resilience and depth.

Brighton Owner Tony Bloom Eyes Hearts Investment: A Look at His 10 Most Lucrative Transfer Deals

Reports have emerged that Brighton & Hove Albion owner Tony Bloom is in advanced talks with Scottish Premiership side Hearts over a potential £10 million investment. The proposed deal would see Bloom’s sports analysis firm integrate its technology into Hearts’ recruitment process, mirroring the successful model employed at Brighton.

Under Bloom’s stewardship, Brighton has established a reputation for astute transfer dealings, generating substantial profits through its player trading model. This strategic approach has enabled the Seagulls to punch above their weight in the Premier League, consistently securing top-flight status and occasionally breaking into the top half of the table.

Hearts, who have experienced financial difficulties in recent years, are eager to capitalize on Bloom’s expertise. The proposed partnership would provide the Scottish club with access to cutting-edge analytics and scouting tools, potentially transforming their recruitment strategy.

Here, we examine the top 10 transfer deals facilitated during Bloom’s tenure at Brighton:

Moises Caicedo: Signed from Independiente del Valle for £4 million in 2021, sold to Chelsea for £100 million in 2023 (profit: £96 million)

Moises Caicedo

Ben White: Joined from Southampton’s academy in 2014, sold to Arsenal for £50 million in 2021 (profit: £50 million)

Marc Cucurella: Signed from Getafe for £15 million in 2021, sold to Chelsea for £55 million in 2022 (profit: £40 million)

Marc Cucurella

Alexis Mac Allister: Signed from Argentinos Juniors for £6.9 million in 2019, sold to Liverpool for £35 million in 2023 (profit: £28.1 million)

Alexis Mac Allister

Robert Sánchez: Joined from Levante’s academy on a free transfer in 2013, sold to Chelsea for £19 million in 2023 (profit: £19 million)

Robert Sánchez

Yves Bissouma: Signed from Lille for £14 million in 2018, sold to Tottenham for £24.5 million in 2022 (profit: £10.5 million)

Yves Bissouma

Dan Burn: Signed from Wigan for £3 million in 2018, sold to Newcastle for £12.6 million in 2022 (profit: £9.6 million)

Dan Burn

Leandro Trossard: Signed from Genk for £13 million in 2019, sold to Arsenal for £20 million in 2023 (profit: £7 million)

Leandro Trossard

Leonardo Ulloa: Signed from Almería for £1.5 million in 2013, sold to Leicester for £8.5 million in 2014 (profit: £7 million)

Leonardo Ulloa

Anthony Knockaert: Signed from Standard Liege for £2.95 million in 2016, sold to Fulham for £9.85 million in 2020 (profit: £6.9 million)

Anthony Knockaert

A successful partnership between Bloom and Hearts could significantly enhance the Scottish club’s transfer strategy, leveraging Brighton’s expertise to drive success in the Scottish Premiership.

Hearts’ fans are cautiously optimistic about the potential investment, recognizing the benefits of Bloom’s analytical approach. “This could be a game-changer for us,” said one supporter. “We’ve struggled to compete with Celtic and Rangers in recent years, but with Bloom’s expertise, we might finally have a chance to close the gap.”

While details of the proposed deal remain scarce, it’s clear that Bloom’s involvement would bring a new level of sophistication to Hearts’ recruitment process. As the Scottish Premiership continues to evolve, clubs like Hearts must adapt to stay competitive.

Bloom’s track record at Brighton suggests that his analytics-driven approach can yield significant rewards. If Hearts can replicate even a fraction of Brighton’s success, the partnership could prove a shrewd move for both parties.

Only time will tell if Bloom’s investment will come to fruition, but one thing is certain – Hearts’ future looks brighter with the Brighton owner at the helm.

Aston Villa: Because Celtic Needed an Easier Champions League Opponent to Make Them Feel Better About Themselves

“Celebrity Celtic Fan Overjoyed by Champions League Draw

Former Liverpool player and well-known Celtic fan, Stan Collymore, took to social media to express his excitement after the Champions League draw. Celtic will face Aston Villa, one of Collymore’s former clubs, alongside Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig, Club Brugge, Young Boys, Atalanta, Dinamo Zagreb, and Slovan Bratislava.

Collymore’s Reaction

Collymore tweeted in all caps, “ASTON VILLA V CELTIC. YAAASSSSSSSAAAAASASS”, fulfilling his wish for a match between two clubs he loves. He had previously tweeted in May, “Only two fixtures I’d like next season, the rest are a bonus wherever we play. Aston Villa v Celtic. Aston Villa v Bayern Munich. Pinch me”.

New Celtic Signing Excited for Champions League

Alex Valle, Celtic’s new loan signing from Barcelona, is also looking forward to the Champions League. He said, “I’m really happy… it’s an opportunity to be competitive… every game will be very difficult, so we’ll have to work really hard to reach the next stage”.

Valle is excited to experience the atmosphere at Celtic Park, saying, “I’ve heard a lot about Celtic Park, the crowd and the atmosphere, so I’m looking forward to experiencing it. The Champions League is the best competition in the world, so playing in it will be amazing”.

, took to social media to express his excitement after the Champions League draw. Celtic will face Aston Villa, one of Collymore’s former clubs, alongside Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig, Club Brugge, Young Boys, Atalanta, Dinamo Zagreb, and Slovan Bratislava.

Collymore’s Reaction

Collymore tweeted in all caps, “ASTON VILLA V CELTIC. YAAASSSSSSSAAAAASASS”, fulfilling his wish for a match between two clubs he loves. He had previously tweeted in May, “Only two fixtures I’d like next season, the rest are a bonus wherever we play. Aston Villa v Celtic. Aston Villa v Bayern Munich. Pinch me”.

New Celtic Signing Excited for Champions League

Alex Valle, Celtic’s new loan signing from Barcelona, is also looking forward to the Champions League. He said, “I’m really happy… it’s an opportunity to be competitive… every game will be very difficult, so we’ll have to work really hard to reach the next stage”.

Valle is excited to experience the atmosphere at Celtic Park, saying, “I’ve heard a lot about Celtic Park, the crowd and the atmosphere, so I’m looking forward to experiencing it. The Champions League is the best competition in the world, so playing in it will be amazing”.

“Lopetegui’s ‘Bizarre’ Decisions and Tactics: Merson Slams Manager, ‘What Was He Thinking?’. Paul Merson Prediction Crystal Palace vs West Ham United

Renowned pundit Paul Merson has shared his prediction for the upcoming Premier League match between Crystal Palace and West Ham United, tipping the Eagles to secure a 1-0 victory at Selhurst Park.

Merson expressed his confusion over West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui’s decision to start only two of the team’s eight senior signings in their previous match against Aston Villa. “I was baffled by that decision,” he said. “It doesn’t matter how many talented players you sign unless you actually put them on the pitch from the start.”

Both Crystal Palace and West Ham United had disappointing starts to their seasons, and Merson believes the Hammers will struggle to bounce back. “Let’s face it – both teams were disappointing in their first games,” he said. “West Ham signed all these attacking players and didn’t use any of them from the start.”

With West Ham eager to get their season back on track, Lopetegui is under pressure to secure a win. Changes are expected to the starting lineup, with Niclas Fullkrug, Crysencio Summerville, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka potentially coming in.

Merson’s prediction adds to the pressure on West Ham United to perform, and it remains to be seen if they can turn their season around with a win at Selhurst Park.

Why Raheem Sterling is Perfect for Crystal Palace?THE WINGER WHO COULD CHANGE EVERYTHING by Revitalize Crystal Palace’s Attack”

Crystal Palace Eyeing Ambitious Move for Raheem Sterling

Crystal Palace are exploring a potential deal for Chelsea outcast Raheem Sterling, and it’s easy to see why. The winger’s pace, skill, and Premier League pedigree make him an attractive option for Oliver Glasner’s side. But what really sets Sterling apart is his ability to thrive in a counter-attacking system – a style of play that Palace have mastered in recent seasons.

Sterling’s speed and agility would allow him to excel in Palace’s quick transitions from defense to offense, catching opponents off guard with his lightning-fast runs down the flank. His experience playing in a similar system under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City would also serve him well, as he’s accustomed to making intelligent runs behind the defense and delivering precise crosses into the box.

Moreover, Sterling’s work rate and defensive discipline would make him a natural fit for Glasner’s hardworking and organized team. He’s comfortable tracking back to support his full-back and has the stamina to maintain a high level of intensity over 90 minutes.

While some may question Sterling’s recent form, it’s worth noting that he’s often been deployed in a more central role at Chelsea, which hasn’t played to his strengths. At Palace, he’d be free to return to his natural position on the wing, where he can cause chaos with his direct running and clever movement.

Of course, there are still hurdles to overcome, not least Sterling’s £300,000-per-week wages and Chelsea’s reluctance to let him go without a fight. But if Palace can pull off the signing, it would be a major coup for the club. Sterling’s arrival would inject a new level of excitement and unpredictability into their attack, making them a more formidable opponent for top-six sides.

The Wait is Over: Fabian Hurzeler Revealed Summer Signing Ahead of Manchester United Clash

Brighton Receive Major Injury Boost Ahead of Manchester United Clash

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has confirmed that £35m summer signing Yankuba Minteh is fit to face Manchester United at the Amex Stadium on Saturday. Minteh, who joined from Newcastle, impressed in pre-season and the early stages of the season before being forced off with a concussion injury against Everton.

However, after training well this week, Minteh is expected to play a key role against Manchester United. Hurzeler stated, “We follow the clear rules for concussion in the Premier League, prioritizing the player’s health, and he will be available.”

Additionally, new signings Georginio Rutter and Brajan Gruda may also be in contention for the match. Rutter, a club-record £40m signing from Leeds, can play outside or center and offers a good first touch and reaction out of possession. Gruda, a £25m arrival from Mainz, is also in the mix.

However, Pervis Estupinan (ankle), Evan Ferguson (foot), and Tariq Lamptey (unspecified) continue their recoveries and may not be ready for the United match. Billy Gilmour is expected to feature, but Valentin Barco may be out as he finalizes his loan move to Sevilla. Julio Enciso (knee), Igor Julio (unspecified), and long-term absentee Solly March will miss out.

The Transfer Bombshell: Rio Ferdinand’s Urgent Warning to Leicester City Over Putting Soumaré’s Future in Jeopardy”

Rio Ferdinand Warns Leicester City: Selling Boubakary Soumaré to AS Monaco Would be a “Wrong Decision”

Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand has expressed his opinion on Leicester City’s potential sale of Boubakary Soumaré to AS Monaco, labeling it a “wrong decision” for the Foxes.

Soumaré, 25, has been linked with a move to the Principality club as a replacement for Youssouf Fofana. However, Ferdinand believes that selling the talented midfielder would be a mistake for Leicester City.

“I think it would be a wrong decision for Leicester City to sell Boubakary Soumaré to AS Monaco,” Ferdinand said. “He’s a quality player who has already shown his ability in the Premier League. Leicester needs to keep hold of their best players if they want to continue competing at the top level.”

Ferdinand, who won numerous titles during his playing career, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League, believes that Soumaré’s departure would weaken Leicester’s squad.

“Soumaré is a key player for Leicester, and losing him would create a gap in their midfield,” Ferdinand added. “AS Monaco may be offering a significant amount of money, but Leicester needs to think about the long-term benefits of keeping their best players.”

With the transfer window nearing its end, Leicester City faces a crucial decision regarding Soumaré’s future. Will they heed Ferdinand’s warning and keep the talented midfielder, or will they cash in on AS Monaco’s offer? Only time will tell.

Dyche’s Warning Shot: Sign a Right-Back or Face Relegation Battle, Owners Told

Everton’s Right-Back Conundrum: Eric Ebimbe Emerges as £6m Solution

In the aftermath of their dismal 3-0 defeat to Brighton, Everton’s longstanding issues at right-back have come under intense scrutiny. The Toffees’ failure to address this problem position has been glaringly apparent, but their interest in Eric Ebimbe from Frankfurt offers a glimmer of hope.

Ebimbe, 23, has impressed in the Bundesliga, showcasing his versatility and technical prowess. Notably, he has experience playing right-back, making him an attractive solution for Everton. His physical attributes are equally impressive, with Dijon sporting coordinator Peguy Luyindula describing him as “powerful, versatile, and knows what he wants.”

The Frenchman’s stats are equally compelling, ranking in the top 1% for non-penalty goals and total shots per 90, top 2% for successful take-ons per 90, and top 5% for aerials won per 90. With Everton desperate for a reliable right-back, Ebimbe’s arrival could be a timely solution.

However, the Toffees are also exploring alternative options, including Kieran Trippier. Despite his advancing age (33), Trippier’s experience and Sean Dyche’s admiration for him make him a viable candidate. Nevertheless, Ebimbe’s youthful energy and versatility make him an attractive proposition.

As Everton prepares to face Tottenham, the need for a specialist right-back has become pressing. With Ebimbe and Trippier emerging as potential solutions, the Toffees must act swiftly to address this long-standing issue. Will they secure Ebimbe’s signature, or will Trippier’s experience prove the more appealing option? The clock is ticking for Everton to find the answer.

Myers Believes Alli Deserves Champions League Football, Not Everton’s Limited Vision: Alli’s Frustration with Everton Contract Offer, Exit Now Inevitable

According to Sky Sports’ Alan Myers, Dele Alli’s frustration with Everton’s contract offer has reached a boiling point, making his exit from the club inevitable. Myers believes Alli deserves to play in the Champions League, a level of competition that Everton is currently unable to offer.

“Dele Alli is a player who should be playing in the Champions League,” Myers said. “He has the talent, the skill, and the ambition to compete at the highest level. Everton’s contract offer is a slap in the face, considering his value to the team and his desire to succeed.”

Alli’s current contract expired on June 30, and negotiations over a new deal have broken down. The midfielder has been seeking a significant improvement in his terms, but Everton’s offer has fallen short of his expectations.

“Dele feels undervalued and unappreciated by the club,” a source close to the player revealed. “He wants to play for a team that shares his ambition and is willing to invest in his future. Everton’s limited vision and lack of commitment have made it clear that it’s time for him to move on.”

With Alli’s exit now seemingly inevitable, Myers believes that Everton will struggle to replace his talent and creativity. “Losing Dele Alli will be a massive blow to Everton,” Myers said. “He is a game-changer, and his departure will leave a huge void in the team.”