Heat, who beat Sixers in last season’s final, moved up to fifth with their point
AAP03-Jan-2025Rain was the only winner as the BBL game in Coffs Harbour between top-of-the-table Sydney Sixers and defending champions Brisbane Heat was washed out without any play.The game was abandoned just over an hour after it was scheduled to start.The point apiece for the no result put Sixers three points ahead of second-placed Perth Scorchers, who were scheduled to play Sydney Thunder later on Friday.Heat, who beat Sixers in last season’s final but lost to them in Brisbane last week, moved up to fifth with their point.Rain had fallen over the north coast venue for several hours.At one stage, it appeared to have almost ceased, but it intensified and forced the abandonment of the game to the disappointment of the several thousand fans who arrived at the ground.Michael Neser had been scheduled to make his comeback from an hamstring injury suffered almost two months ago while playing for Australia A. Heat had also named wicketkeeper Tom Alsop in their squad, with the England Lions representative poised to make his season debut.Heat, who had lost three games straight before Friday’s washout, will next play Thunder in Brisbane on Monday. Sixers, who suffered their first loss in their last start after winning their first four, face Melbourne Stars at the MCG next Thursday.
Chelsea have been rocked by Cole Palmer's injury as the England star had to be subbed against Manchester United within 20 minutes after appearing to aggravate his groin problem. The forward was replaced by Andrey Santos as Enzo Maresca also hooked Pedro Neto and Estevao Willian in a brave tactical tweak.
Blue dream turns into nightmare
Palmer, a boyhood Manchester United fan and the heartbeat of Maresca’s attack, pulled up clutching his groin. He had barely touched the ball before throwing his head back in frustration, shaking his head at the bench. Swapping his shirt for a heavy coat, the England international stormed straight to the tunnel in visible anger. However, he was later spotted back on the bench with ice packed onto his thighs. There were fitness worries about Palmer after he picked up the groin injury against Bayern Munich, and yet Maresca risked him for the blockbuster clash at Old Trafford. The gamble has backfired spectacularly.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportRed card chaos for Sanchez
The match had barely settled into rhythm when disaster struck for the Blues. United launched long from the back, with Benjamin Sesko nodding on to release Bryan Mbeumo. The forward was through on goal when Robert Sanchez charged recklessly out of his area and wiped him out at the edge of the box. The referee barely hesitated and flashed a straight red card.
United punish fragile blues
United smelt blood and wasted no time twisting the knife. From the resulting wave of attacks, Mbeumo whipped in a dangerous cross from the right. At the back post, Dorgu climbed highest, steering a clever header back across the six-yard box. Bruno Fernandes ghosted beyond Chelsea’s static backline and stabbed home past substitute keeper Filip Jorgensen. VAR spent an eternity checking whether Trevoh Chalobah had stepped up in time, but replays showed the Chelsea defender had played Fernandes onside. The relentless Red Devils piled further misery when Casemiro doubled the lead in the 37th minute before the Brazilian was also given the marching orders for two bookings, minutes before half-time.
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AFPNervy wait for Chelsea fans
Chelsea’s packed calendar offers no time for recovery. Although Maresca will be happy to rotate against Lincoln City in the EFL Cup midweek, Brighton await next week, a side more than capable of punishing weakness. The Italian manager will be praying the scans reveal a minor strain rather than a long-term absence, because Palmer has become indispensable in his system. With Sanchez suspended and Palmer in the treatment room, cracks are beginning to show for the world champions.
Liverpool are set to have an intense end to the 2025 summer transfer window. The Reds have already had a busy few months, signing the likes of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike and Jeremie Frimpong to strengthen Arne Slot’s title-winning side. Yet, there may still be incomings.
Alexander Isak remains the top target, of course, although long-standing interest remains in Marc Guehi. The Crystal Palace captain continues to be linked with the Merseysiders, with a £35m deal reportedly what it would take to prise him away from Selhurst Park. The England international is out of contract at the end of the season.
If a deal for Guehi does not materialise for the Reds, they could pursue an alternative target at centre-back.
Liverpool considering Guehi alternative
It seems clear with ten days or so left in the transfer window that Liverpool are ready to spend again. If they do indeed sign a new centre-back, then Guehi seems to be the ideal choice for Slot. However, it is not a guarantee at this stage.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
If a deal for the Palace star does not come off, then the Reds could turn their attention to Brentford and Ireland international Nathan Collins. Caught Offside report that he is ‘one of the names’ on the list at Anfield this summer if they fail to land Guehi.
This will not be an easy deal to do. Firstly, having already lost Bryan Mbeumo, Christian Norgaard and potentially Yoane Wissa, Brentford are ‘eager not to lose more key players’ before the window slams shut.
On top of that, Liverpool will face competition from Manchester United, although Slot’s side are said to be in a ‘stronger position financially’, while Tottenham Hotspur are the frontrunners. A fee is not yet clear, but surely the Bees would want to make a profit on the £23m they spent on Collins in 2023.
Why Collins would be a good signing
There is no doubt that signing Collins would be a smart move for the Reds. He is a Premier League-proven defender who comes with a great reputation and is already up to speed with the pace of the English top flight.
Brentford'sNathanCollinsin action with Brighton & Hove Albion's Julio Enciso
The 24-year-old, who was named Brentford captain at the start of the season, has played 78 times for the Londoners so far. In that time, he’s played 90 minutes in all but six of those appearances.
The former Wolves star, who has also played for Burnley, is a goal threat in the penalty box, too. He’s bagged four goals for the club and assisted six, which included an impressive five assists last term in the Premier League.
This is certainly a deal that could see Liverpool sign their second coming of Virgil van Dijk. The legendary Dutchman also joined from a Premier League side, signing from Southampton back in 2017 for £75m.
The rest, as they say, is history. Now Liverpool skipper, Van Dijk has featured 321 times for the Reds, helping his side to lift two Premier League titles and the Champions League.
Back in 2023, former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp called him “the best defender in the world”.
There are certainly similarities between Van Dijk and Collins. Not only would they have both come from fellow Premier League clubs, but the Ireland star could be described as “dominant”, just as football talent scout Jacek Kulig did. You could certainly use the same word to describe Van Dijk after the years of success he’s enjoyed at the top.
Statistically, the pair are similar, too. For example, Collins averaged 3.34 progressive passes and 4.26 ball recoveries per 90 minutes last season. In comparison, Van Dijk chalked up 5.35 progressive passes and 3.11 ball recoveries each game.
Progressive passes
3.34
5.35
Clearances
5.95
5.14
Tackles and interceptions
1.95
2.54
Ball recoveries
4.26
3.11
Aerial duels won
3.08
3.22
Progressive carries
0.84
0.59
Although there is no definitive fee, a move for Collins could be extremely smart for the Reds. There are certainly shades of Van Dijk in the deal and in his game, with the dominance shown off the ball and the quality they have in possession. The pair are also towering figures at 6 foot 4 and 6 foot 5, respectively, while also captaining their current sides.
Liverpool fans would love for him to become the second coming of their club legend.
If they miss out on Guehi, signing Collins instead this summer might be the perfect move to help Slot’s Liverpool side continue their dominance.
He can usurp Gakpo: FSG ready late bid to sign £43m winger for Liverpool
Liverpool still hope to sign a left-sided forward before the end of the transfer window.
Left-arm quick heading for Lord’s after agreeing to multi-format deal
ESPNcricinfo staff24-Feb-2025Josh Little, Ireland’s left-arm seamer, is set to follow in the footsteps of his former international team-mate Tim Murtagh, after signing for Middlesex for the 2025 season.Little, 25, is likely to feature primarily in the Vitality Blast, but will be available for other formats, subject to his international and Irish domestic commitments. The final details of his deal remain subject to Cricket Ireland issuing a No Objection Certificate.To date, Little has claimed 139 international wickets across both white-ball formats, including 4 for 45 on debut against England in Dublin in 2019. His best figures of 6 for 36 came in an ODI against Zimbabwe in Harare in December 2023.He brings with him a wealth of experience on the T20 franchise circuit, including a stint with Gujarat Titans in the IPL, whom he helped reach the final in 2023. He has also featured in the Caribbean Premier League, the SA20, the ILT20, Major League Cricket, and the Lanka Premier League, and the Hundred, with a pair of stints with Manchester Originals and Welsh Fire.”It’s an honour and a privilege to have the opportunity to be part of Middlesex, one of the most prestigious cricket clubs in our game,” Little said. “I can’t wait to meet everyone, see some familiar faces, and put in the hard yards both on and off the field.”I’d like to thank Middlesex for putting their trust in me, and I’m thoroughly looking forward to what’s to come. The opportunity to play at Lord’s is hugely exciting and I can’t wait to get going.”Little’s unveiling follows last week’s news that Kane Williamson had signed a joint deal to play for Middlesex and London Spirit in the 2025 season.Alan Coleman, Middlesex’s director of cricket, added: “To secure a player of Josh’s T20 experience and proven ability is huge for us, as he has performed at the highest level of white-ball cricket around the world for the last few years.”He brings something different to our attack. He’s got genuine pace, is a left-armer, which in itself poses problems for batters, has a fierce short ball, and has skills that make him perfect for bowling both at the top and in the death overs of an innings.”We can’t wait to welcome Josh to the Club and look forward to unleashing him on the Blast this summer.
Chelsea have no plans to make a mid-season managerial change, with Enzo Maresca retaining the full backing of the board despite a dip in form. The west London club's hierarchy will reportedly only assess the Italian's future at the end of the campaign, believing he can still achieve their objectives after guiding the Blues to European success last term.
Maresca given backing despite slump in form
Chelsea’s 3-1 defeat to Brighton has sparked renewed frustration among fans, who are growing impatient with the team’s inconsistency. Despite picking up just one win from their last five games in all competitions, Maresca continues to enjoy the full support of the club’s owners and sporting directors, per They remain calm over recent results and see no reason to panic ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash with Benfica.
AdvertisementAFPChelsea have set goals for the 2025-26 season
Maresca’s tenure has already seen silverware with victories in the Conference League and Club World Cup, helping solidify his credit within the boardroom. Chelsea’s hierarchy believe their season goals – a top-four finish and progress in cup competitions – remain attainable. The club’s leadership also recognises that recent defeats came amid injury issues and disciplinary setbacks that have left the team stretched thin.
Chelsea confident Maresca is the right man for the job
Chelsea are confident Maresca can steady the ship once key players return and the fixture congestion eases. The manager has been urged to cut out costly defensive lapses after admitting his side gifted goals in the Brighton loss. Having weathered tough spells before, the Italian is trusted to navigate this rough patch and restore momentum as the season unfolds.
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GettyChelsea reunite with Mourinho in Benfica clash
Chelsea face Jose Mourinho’s Benfica next in the Champions League, a test that could help Maresca silence critics and rebuild confidence within the fanbase. A positive run across both domestic and European fronts would reinforce faith in his long-term project.
The mood around West Ham United today could not be more different to the one around the club last week.
There are still plenty of issues that need to be addressed, but a thumping 3-0 Premier League win away to Nottingham Forest, combined with some brilliant signings, has given fans plenty to be optimistic about.
It’s been a pretty good summer for the Hammers so far, with the likes of Mateus Fernandes, El Hadji Malick Diouf, Soungoutou Magassa and Kyle Walker-Peters all quality additions.
WestHamUnitedplayers celebrate after the match
Moreover, with the window closing at 7pm tonight, West Ham could be closing in on another top signing, someone who could be their own Marc Guehi.
West Ham target their own Guehi
According to a recent report from Jacob Steinberg, West Ham are interested in Axel Disasi.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
More than that, Steinberg has revealed that the Hammers have already contacted the Blues over a potential loan move for the player.
However, the journalist has also stated that it “remains to be seen” whether the two sides can come to an agreement on the finances of a deal for the £80k-per-week titan.
It might not be the most exciting signing the Irons could make this summer, but Disasi could be an excellent addition to Graham Potter’s defence, and their own Guehi.
Why Disasi could be West Ham's Guehi
So, given the reputation that Disasi has cultivated in recent seasons, the comparison to Guehi might sound absurd to some of you.
Disasi
However, we aren’t really claiming that the Chelsea ace is on the same level as the soon-to-be Liverpool star, but there are some similarities between the pair, and who knows, with the proper coaching and mentoring, West Ham could be getting their hands on a gem of a player.
With that said, what are some of these similarities?
Well, first and foremost, the French defender is actually far more accomplished with the ball at his feet than people tend to give him credit for.
According to FBref, he sits in the top 5% of centre-backs across Europe’s top-five leagues for pass completion, the top 7% for successful take-on percentage, the top 10% for total carrying distance and the top 15% for live passes, all per 90.
Goals/Shot
0.20
Top 4%
Touches (Def 3rd)
24.70
Top 4%
Goals/Shot on Target
1.00
Top 5%
Pass Completion %
87.9%
Top 5%
% of Aerials Won
65.4%
Top 5%
Non-Penalty Goals – npxG
+0.06
Top 7%
Pass Completion % (Medium)
89.8%
Top 7%
SCA (Defensive Action)
0.09
Top 7%
Successful Take-On %
57.9%
Top 7%
Pass Completion % (Short)
93.5%
Top 8%
Touches (Mid 3rd)
35.91
Top 9%
Total Carrying Distance
219.12
Top 10%
Aerials Won
1.56
Top 11%
Passes Blocked
0.83
Top 12%
Carries
40.96
Top 13%
Progressive Carrying Distance
111.12
Top 13%
Live-ball Passes
53.27
Top 15%
In other words, while he might not show it as much as the Palace star, the 27-year-old is more than capable of playing out from the back, baiting the press and starting attacks.
Another key similarity he shares with the Englishman is his physicality.
At 6 foot 3, the Gonesse-born “monster,” as dubbed by journalist Rahman Osman, is not someone who is easily bullied off the ball, and he puts that height to good use in the air as well, with FBref ranking him in the top 5% of centre-backs for percentage of aerial duels won, per 90.
Finally, like the Abidjan-born star, should this deal go through, the former AS Monaco gem would be another centre-back discarded by Chelsea, which could be the perfect thing for his career at this point.
Ultimately, while Disasi is not on the same level as Guehi at the moment, there are some key similarities between the two, and on loan, there isn’t much risk in West Ham bringing him to the London Stadium.
West Ham in talks to hijack Crystal Palace for £15m "animal" to replace Aguerd
The Hammers are “exploring a move” for a new centre-back.
Defending champions take the long route to final after defeats in first three matches
Firdose Moonda06-Feb-2025Sunrisers Eastern Cape 177 for 2 (de Zorzi 78, J Hermann 69*) beat Paarl Royals 175 for 4 (R Hermann 81*, Pretorius 59) by eight wicketsSunrisers Eastern Cape will play in a third successive final after winning two matches in two days. They will take on first-time finalists MI Cape Town on Saturday, with memories of their wins over Pretoria Capitals (2023) and Durban’s Super Giants (2024) fresh in their minds. The defending champions have now won knockout matches both batting first and chasing on the Highveld, where MICT last played a week ago, and may fancy themselves as favourites.For now, they will celebrate another successful campaign, irrespective of whether they win the trophy or not. They have shown all the ingredients for a champion team, specifically that they have enough depth in the squad for sustained success.Less than 24 hours after beating Joburg Super Kings, SEC returned to Centurion with what looked like a completely different batting blueprint and new bowling plans.Liam Dawson, who has been both economical and attacking in the tournament so far, was only used when Ottneil Baartman had to leave the field with what looked like a hamstring concern and Aiden Markram bowled a full quota of four overs instead. That may be mostly to do with match-ups against a Paarl side filled with left-handers but also shows the versatility of SEC’s attack. Baartman will be a particular concern for them ahead of the final but he will have some time to assess the seriousness of the niggle.Importantly, their top-order, who were the least successful of the group stage, came together at the right time. David Bedingham and Tony de Zorzi posted 46 inside four overs against JSK in the Eliminator and de Zorzi’s 78 anchored their successful chase against Paarl in Qualifier 2.De Zorzi is a particularly interesting case because he is not really considered a T20 player. He was named as a replacement when allrounder Patrick Kruger was ruled out of the tournament with a calf injury and immediately displaced a misfiring Zak Crawley, who only contributed two scores over 20 in eight matches.Lhuan-dre Pretorius has been one of the finds of the tournament•SportzpicsDe Zorzi did not initially look the part with 24 runs in three innings and was doubting himself. “It is tough. We don’t play that many T20 games,” de Zorzi said in the post-match press conference. “I think you would obviously want to play a lot more and find your rhythm or your blueprint. Marco [Jansen] kept saying to me, ‘just keep your intent up’. There’s definitely times where you look in the mirror and you think, ‘Maybe I must put that [hopes of being a T20 player] in the cupboard.”Tonight was not one of those times. Against expectation, de Zorzi pulled off his highest score since his century in the 2018 Abu Dhabi T20. His was an innings that started riskily with a top-edge that fell safely and went for four, and an outside edge that evaded first slip, and then evolved spectacularly. There were drives and cuts but the shot of the night was when the ball became but a speck in the night sky as he pulled Mitch Owen high over deep square leg for six. That shot created distance between Sunrisers and the DLS par score as lightning strikes surrounded Centurion.The storm didn’t arrive but Paarl Royals were still blown away, and one family in particular will have felt they’d navigated changing winds. The Hermann brothers were on either side of this contest and their father, Marius, was in attendance in his custom-made half-and-half shirt and cap. One half is the pink of Paarl; the other is the orange of the Eastern Cape and on the back it says “Hermann supporter.”At least, he was rewarded for the surname. Rubin top-scored with 81 off 53 balls and was key to Paarl getting over 160 but Jordan was there at the end, when SEC won the match. By the end, Marius was in full SEC kit, which was as good a signal as any that Paarl’s race was run.Related
Joe Root: 'T20 is about problem-solving, just on a much quicker scale than I've mostly been doing'
'Funny how the world works' – Life comes full circle for Wanderers' own Devon Conway
Red-ball specialist Bedingham 'still trying to learn' his trade in T20s
Sunrisers keep three-peat dream alive as Marco Jansen makes the difference again
MICT into SA20 final as controversial no-ball call hurts Royals
In reality, it ended after their home stretch, where they became the first team to win all five of the games they’ve played, and when they lost Joe Root to national duty shortly after. “Him leaving left a little bit of a gap with that all-round role,” David Miller said. “That one or two overs of spin, or sometimes four and the kind of experience that he has batting through, or getting through the Powerplay, and just playing good cricket shots.”Paarl’s attack may also need a re-think after it was primarily set up for the slower, lower conditions of Boland Park and then struggled up-country. In particular, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who was the leading wicket-taker at one stage of the tournament, has gone wicketless in the last three games, while Lungi Ngidi, their senior seamer, only played in five of their 12 games and no knockouts. Asked if they could have used him more, Miller concurred.”We definitely could have. It’s a very unfortunate situation… but the way the team is set up, there was only really one position between a couple of fast bowlers and, you know, we went with Kwena [Maphaka] with the extra pace and the left arm variation,” Miller said, also dousing any worries that Ngidi is not fully fit. “But Lungi has been bowling a lot outside of the games and really getting back to where he knows he can bowl. He’s been fantastic off the field for the squad.”But all is not lost for Paarl. Root’s opening partner, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, was the find of the tournament and is currently the leading run-scorer. Though he had a lean patch after his two big scores in his first three games, he struck a sweet 59 in the second qualifier and will be one to watch in future.”He’s unbelievable. He’s 18 years old so he’s got a lot of time,” Miller said. “He plays length really well, he’s got a really good head on him and he wants to do well so those are all very good things. He’s an incredible talent and I’m really looking forward to watching his progress and seeing what he can achieve.”Some will be saying the same about SEC as they wonder how much more they can win. They remain the only team to win the SA20 and their ability to step up when it matters means it would be difficult to bet against them.”They’re a team that never leaves you as an opposition, so you always have to be on your game. They’re clever cricketers and gutsy cricketers,” Miller said. “When you’ve got a squad like that and a never-say-die attitude, it often goes a long way in T20 cricket, especially in the field. They give absolutely everything. They’ve got a great thing going and I wish them all the very best.”
Neymar has suffered another setback in his battle for fitness, with Santos president Marcelo Teixeira confirming the Brazil icon will be sidelined until November. The 33-year-old’s recurring injury problems continue to cast doubt over his club’s survival fight and his hopes of leading the Selecao at the 2026 World Cup.
Fresh setback for Neymar at Santos
Santos confirmed earlier that Neymar’s thigh injury will keep him out until November, ruling him out of upcoming fixtures in both league play and international duty. President Marcelo Teixeira explained that the former Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona forward is targeting a return for the final stretch of the season, as Santos fight to avoid relegation.
AdvertisementGettySantos fighting for survival without Neymar
The Sao Paulo giants are just five points clear of the drop zone after a 2-2 draw with Bragantino, and Neymar’s continued absence leaves them without their talisman in a crucial run of games. The 33-year-old has already missed large chunks of the season and, despite six goals in 21 appearances, his impact has been limited by recurring setbacks.
gettyNeymar’s injury history raises World Cup concerns
This latest blow adds to a worrying trend. Neymar tore his ACL against Uruguay in October 2023 while playing for Brazil, an injury that derailed his short stint at Al-Hilal and sidelined him for a year. Since his return to Santos, he has struggled to string together consistent performances, forcing Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti to leave him out of the squad for recent qualifiers.
Ancelotti recently said of the Brazilian: "I want him to be really well to be able to play. He can participate in the World Cup if he is physically well. From a technical point of view, there is no discussion. His objective must be to be ready in June. It does not matter whether he is in the list in October, November or March."
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Getty Images SportBrazil’s World Cup hopes hinge on Neymar’s recovery
The Brazilian’s rehabilitation program is set to continue for at least six more weeks, with hopes he can rejoin Santos in December for the final league fixtures. For Brazil, the question is whether he can recover in time to be fully fit for the 2026 World Cup cycle. At 33, with time running out, every setback raises fresh doubts about whether the Selecao’s No.10 will ever reach his old heights again.
Nottingham Forest have made an indifferent start to the 2025/26 campaign. Nuno Espirito Santo’s men have just four points to their name so far, and have struggled since their opening day victory over Brentford, in which they thrashed Keith Andrews’ side 3-1 at the City Ground.
Since then, the men in Garibaldi Red have picked up just one point, which was a resilient draw away to Crystal Palace. Their most recent outing saw them lose 3-0 at home against the struggling West Ham United, a result which surprised some, given Forest’s result at home on the opening day.
Nottingham Forest managerNunoEspirito Santo reacts at the end of the match
Perhaps the lack of goals in their last two games has coincided with one thing in particular: Chris Wood’s short drought in front of goal.
Chris Wood’s start to the season
Drought is a harsh word to use when discussing Wood’s recent form. The New Zealand international scored a brace in Forest’s season opener against the Bees, but did not find the back of the net in the next two outings, which saw his club score once, thanks to Callum Hudson-Odoi.
His first goal was a resilient finish, winning the second ball from a corner after missing the initial header and poking home inside a packed penalty box.
His second goal was sublime, teed up by an exquisite first-time ball through the lines from Elliot Anderson. Wood ran onto it, rounded the goalkeeper and scored.
Of course, it is no surprise to see Wood on the scoresheet already for Nuno’s side this term. His record in Garibaldi Red is excellent, with 38 goals and four assists in just 85 appearances. Last season was his best in the Premier League, with 20 goals across the campaign.
That form earned him a place in the PFA Team of the Year, in a frontline alongside new Liverpool duo Alexander Isak and Mohamed Salah. Wood’s campaign in 2024/25 and his form for Forest across his career have both been exceptional.
However, Forest sold a striker back in July 2023 who has enjoyed an even more successful time than Wood.
The ex-Forest star who can’t stop scoring
The past few years under their current owner, Evangelos Marinakis, have seen Forest spend significant amounts on transfer fees. However, that has meant they have needed plenty of sales to help balance the books. Departures such as Brennan Johnson to Tottenham Hotspur and Anthony Elanga to Newcastle United are the notable exits.
Yet, someone who left the City Ground for only £5m just over two years ago may have slipped under the radar since his departure.
The man in question here is Sam Surridge, a key figure in their promotion success. He has been on fire for Nashville in the MLS since his departure.
More on those numbers in a moment, but first, it’s important to highlight the Slough-born star’s contribution for Forest.
Once described as a “sensational” striker and “one of the best finishers in the Championship” by Garry Birtles, Surridge scored 11 goals in 50 appearances, including a hat-trick against Swansea City and one in the Premier League, against Bournemouth.
Looking at his form since his £5m move stateside, Surridge has been largely unstoppable. He’s bagged more goals than Wood has managed as a Forest player, with 42 strikes in Nashville yellow, in just 77 appearances, four clear of the Kiwi.
His best campaign for the club has been the most recent season. He’s bagged 20 MLS goals in just 29 games, which is the second time he has hit double figures in the competition since he joined the club two summers ago.
Games
15
32
30
Minutes
948
2631
2595
Goals
5
15
22
Assists
2
3
3
Mins per goal & assist
135
155
118
The 27-year-old has been in scintillating form for the Coyotes in his two-year spell so far with the club, and is showing no signs of slowing down. As per the official MLS website, he currently leads the race for the Golden Boot by one goal, ahead of the legendary Lionel Messi.
Looking back on this sale, perhaps it is one Forest fans wish the club had never made. If Surridge had stayed at the City Ground, maybe he would have hit this vein of form and been competing with Wood for a starting spot.
He'd be exciting with Bakwa: Nottingham Forest in talks for late signing
Nuno Espirito Santo will be spoilt for choice with his attacking options at Nottingham Forest with this late purchase.
Manchester United have an exciting squad to choose from as they look to drum up a run of form this season, but many supporters will also be wondering when Lisandro Martinez is expected to return from injury.
Lisandro Martinez and his Man Utd absence
Argentina international Martinez has become a fan favourite since joining from Ajax back in 2022, registering three goals and three assists in 91 appearances.
However, injury problems have limited his scope for an even greater impact at Old Trafford, none more so than his ACL tear in a 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace back in February.
In what was a season-ending blow for Martinez, Ruben Amorim has since been forced back to the drawing board for defensive solutions and the former Sporting boss has maintained a heavy reliance on Harry Maguire, Mathijs De Ligt and Leny Yoro to fill the void.
Nevertheless, Martinez’s capabilities in possession are difficult to replicate. The World Cup winner averaged a 90% pass accuracy in the Premier League last term, while he also made 32 interceptions, per Fotmob, sparing nobody on his way to stopping dangerous attacking moves.
Ayden Heaven has emerged as a naturally left-sided alternative and has impressed supporters. Still, the former Arsenal youth may be one for the longer term, given he is only 18 years of age. Luke Shaw has also featured centrally.
Man Utd want to beat Liverpool to one of the best talents in Europe when he turns 18
The Red Devils are looking to make a statement by securing his signature.
BySean Markus Clifford Sep 14, 2025
Updates on Martinez’s status have been few and far between, even if Fabrizio Romano recently claimed on his YouTube channel that the World Cup winner may be offered a new contract once he returns from injury.
When will that be? It may be sooner than alot of Manchester United fans believe if recent developments are anything to go by.
Lisandro Martinez's Manchester United return timeframe
Per BBC Sport chief reporter Simon Stone, Martinez could be back in contention after the October international break for Manchester United, providing his rehab has gone to schedule, albeit Amorim is likely to take a cautious approach in light of the recovery process he will have to adhere to.
He later went on to suggest that it would be a surprise to see Martinez back before the conclusion of the October break, pointing out that it may take longer for him to actually get back into a flow of starting matches.
Ultimately, the delicate nature of cruciate-related injuries require specialist care and management, so it may be a little while yet before he starts to get up to speed at Old Trafford.