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Sutton’s predictions v Idlewild guitarist Rod Jones & AI

by Soccer-News October 2, 2025

Liverpool have misplaced two straight video games within the Premier League and Champions League, however is that this a wobble or one thing extra critical?

“Arne Slot’s facet look so weak defensively,” mentioned BBC Sport soccer skilled Chris Sutton. “I lined their defeat at Crystal Palace final weekend and Palace may have gone 4-0 up, no phrase of a lie.

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“Alisson went off injured towards Galatasaray, and if he’s lacking it isn’t going to assist. We all know Liverpool can damage Chelsea on Saturday however it’s the different finish they’ve to fret about.”

Sutton is making predictions for all 380 Premier League video games this season, towards AI, BBC Sport readers and quite a lot of visitors.

For week six, he takes on Idlewild guitarist Rod Jones, who helps Leeds United.

Idlewild’s new self-titled album is launched on Friday they usually tour the UK in October.

Do you agree with their scores? You can also make your personal predictions under.

The preferred scoreline chosen for every sport is used within the scoreboards and tables on the backside of this web page.

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An accurate outcome (choosing a win, draw or defeat) is value 10 factors. The precise rating earns 40 factors.

Rod grew up in Leeds and began supporting his hometown workforce at simply the fitting time.

He instructed BBC Sport: “It wasn’t till I used to be about 11 that I correctly obtained into soccer, and that’s once I determined my workforce was clearly going to be Leeds.

“It was a good time to start out following them. We went up in 1990, completed fourth… after which we have been [First Division] champions the next 12 months, beating Manchester United to the title.

“I bear in mind being within the centre of Leeds for the parade and it was simply phenomenal. On the time it felt it was simply the beginning, however there have been just a few instances like that over the previous 30-odd years and it has not fairly labored out that method!”

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It appears considerably unlikely that the present Leeds facet will do the identical subsequent season following their return to the highest flight for this marketing campaign, however Rod feels “comparatively assured” they will maintain their very own.

“It has been a stable begin, slightly than just like the final time we went up, beneath Marcelo Bielsa in 2020, and it was a aim bonanza at each ends just about each sport,” he added.

“Daniel Farke is much more pragmatic, however I nonetheless really feel like we are able to do some harm and perhaps end mid-table.”

Chris Sutton and Rod Jones have been talking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan.

The AI predictions have been generated utilizing Microsoft Copilot Chat – we merely requested the software to ‘predict this weekend’s Premier League scores’.

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Premier League predictionsFriday, 3 October

Vitality Stadium, 20:00 BST

I used to be at Fulham’s defeat at Aston Villa on Sunday – that they had light by the tip however truly began the sport rather well and I used to be actually impressed with Josh King.

He’s solely 18 however he already seems like one heck of a participant. He has obtained great consciousness and he was excellent earlier than the break.

King was taken off within the second half when the sport was getting away from Fulham, nevertheless, and Villa had carved them open a good few instances by the tip.

Bournemouth solely rescued some extent towards Leeds late on final outing – I used to be unsuitable to again the Cherries then however I’m positively going to again them at dwelling towards Fulham.

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The Cherries edged this fixture and I’m going with the identical outcome and scoreline this time too.

Sutton’s prediction: 1-0

Rod’s prediction: We have performed each these groups not too long ago, and conceded expensive late targets towards each of them! I used to be going to go 2-1 to Bournemouth as a result of they’re at dwelling and appeared a bit extra harmful of the 2, however they have been additionally extra organised on the again than I anticipated, so I do not assume Fulham will rating. 2-0

AI’s prediction: 2-0

Saturday, 4 October

Honest play to Leeds, they’ve actually stunned and impressed me to date. There’s a good stability to their workforce as a result of they carry a menace and may dig in too.

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Other than a heavy defeat at Arsenal, they’ve been aggressive in each sport to date and their good begin would have been even higher however for late targets towards Fulham and Bournemouth.

Even so, they’ve extra factors than I anticipated at this stage and Daniel Farke deserves a variety of credit score.

I believe there have been query marks over whether or not he may handle at this degree due to his Premier League report with Norwich however, as I’ve mentioned earlier than, he by no means actually had the squad there to have the ability to compete.

Tottenham have had a troublesome week, having to struggle again to rescue attracts towards Wolves and Bodo/Glimt, and that is going to be one other tough sport for them.

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I can truly see it ending in one other draw for Spurs. A minimum of they performed within the Arctic Circle on Tuesday evening slightly than Wednesday however a lunchtime kick-off on Saturday continues to be removed from preferrred, and this Champions League marketing campaign goes to stretch their squad.

Sutton’s prediction: 1-1

Rod’s prediction: I requested in my Leeds WhatsApp group about how a lot can I say we are going to win by earlier than I sound like a lunatic, they usually have been all like ‘6-0’ however that’s not going to occur! I need to say 4-1 however it is going to be loads nearer than that too.

I do assume we are going to win, although, as a result of Spurs do not look that coherent as a workforce but. Additionally, Elland Highway is a fortress and the house crowd will nearly get us over the road. 2-1

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Rod’s favorite Leeds gamers: Gary Velocity was an actual hero of mine. I’m from a Welsh household so he was completely my favorite participant once I was rising up. Gary McAllister and Gordon Strachan have been incredible too, and a sure Frenchman who was additionally a part of our title-winning workforce that I am unable to actually speak about now.

Velocity was the one, although, proper up till Alan Smith got here via – however then he ended up going to the unsuitable place as properly!

AI’s prediction: 1-2

Emirates Stadium, 15:00 BST

West Ham have gained on their previous two visits to Emirates Stadium however I do not take a look at Arsenal in the meanwhile and see a workforce that’s going to drop factors.

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The Hammers grew into the sport towards Everton in Nuno Espirito Santo’s first match in cost however I’m anticipating the Gunners to be too robust for them.

Arsenal are a powerhouse in the meanwhile and their squad depth is horrifying. Defensively they’re excellent – they’ve conceded solely three targets in six league video games, the fewest within the Premier League – and this must be snug for them.

Sutton’s prediction: 3-0

Rod’s prediction: I used to be making an attempt to be type to West Ham right here, however they haven’t appeared good to date. Arsenal are tremendous harmful they usually gave us an actual drubbing after we have been nonetheless discovering our ft. 3-0

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AI’s prediction: 3-2

Sunderland followers must be thanking me, actually, as a result of I maintain saying they are going to be crushed and Regis Le Bris’ facet carry on proving me unsuitable.

To this point I’ve mentioned the Black Cats will lose 5 of their six video games. The opposite one was towards Burnley in week two, the place I went for a draw… they usually suffered their solely defeat of the season.

I’m going to do the soiled on them this week, and I’m going to foretell they may win – which clearly means they will not – so apologies to all Sunderland supporters, as a result of they have to be completely livid with me for doing this.

I’m not simply backing them for the sake of it, clearly. They’re extraordinarily properly organised and every part about them has been spectacular.

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Manchester United, alternatively, are nonetheless a large number.

You’ll be able to blame Ruben Amorim for that as a lot as you want however when your centre-half is operating out and taking an opportunity on an offside on an extended ball, like Harry Maguire did for Brentford’s first aim final week, then that’s simply horrible defending.

That is the place I really feel for Amorim. Altay Bayindir must also have finished higher with Brentford’s second aim and the goalkeeping state of affairs is perplexing too – they’ve introduced Senne Lammens in, however the place is he?

It’s simply all muddled considering at United and Amorim is beginning to seem like a man who needs to be put out of his distress.

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They’re simply not enhancing beneath him, though he would possibly truly get a outcome right here off the again of me saying Sunderland will win.

Sutton’s prediction: 0-1

Rod’s prediction: I’m going to sound a bit imply right here however you would not count on something much less from a Leeds fan, would you!? I need United to do OK till we play them (in January) as a result of I do not need them to do away with Amorim. Sunderland miffed me just a little bit over the summer time as a result of they appeared to signal everybody we went for, however they’ve appeared what I would name ‘solid-plus’ to date and I really feel like they may trigger United some issues. 1-1

AI’s prediction: 1-0

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Stamford Bridge, 17:30 BST

Chelsea’s back-to-back league defeats by Manchester United and Brighton have been a traditional case of them capturing themselves within the foot.

If that they had stored 11 males on the pitch in each matches it might have had a huge effect.

So, that is their first intention right here and if it is 11 v 11 then Chelsea can damage Liverpool, even with out Cole Palmer, as a result of the Reds are at sixes and sevens on the again.

I’m tempted to go together with a draw however this can be a massive sport and I need to be courageous and choose a winner.

AI will most likely go for a draw [Sutton does not know anyone else’s predictions when he makes his] to attempt to bore its method to its first win of the season.

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I’m going to stay my neck out and again my outdated workforce to make it a hat-trick of defeats for Arne Slot.

Sutton’s prediction: 2-1

Rod’s prediction: Liverpool didn’t seem like themselves towards Palace however I believe they may come flying out of the gate right here and bounce again. The standard they’ve of their squad is simply wild. 1-2

AI’s prediction: 2-2

Sunday, 5 October

Villa took some time to get going towards Fulham but it surely was nice motion by Ollie Watkins for his aim, and he wanted that.

That was their first league win of the season, however I’m not satisfied Unai Emery’s facet will kick on from there. They play Feyenoord within the Europa League on Thursday and their squad is gong to be stretched.

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The extra I give it some thought, the extra I fairly fancy Burnley for a draw right here.

To lose 5-1 final week was harsh on them, they usually had annoyed Manchester Metropolis for a very long time, the identical as they did once they have been crushed by Liverpool, and that’s more likely to be their gameplan right here too.

My coronary heart says Villa will win due to my time there – I virtually reached double figures in appearances – however my head says Burnley… and, this time, I’m going to hear.

Sutton’s prediction: 1-1

Rod’s prediction: Off the again of beating Fulham, Villa would possibly get that bounce at dwelling and simply edge this. I am unable to see it being an enormous rating, anyway. 1-0

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AI’s prediction: 1-0

Hill Dickinson Stadium, 14:00 BST

This must be sport, and an actual take a look at of whether or not Everton’s new floor is definitely the ‘fortress’ my 606 co-host Roman Kemp describes it as.

Everton are nonetheless unbeaten there however they’ve drawn two out of three video games to date and the handbrake continues to be on, is not it? Possibly’s Roman’s definition of a fortress is simply totally different to most different individuals’s.

There can be no gung-ho ways right here, both, as a result of that is going to be a very tight affair between two very intelligent managers. However after watching Palace final week I’ve to again them actually.

Oliver Glasner’s facet have been fairly direct towards Liverpool and it is going to be battle in the event that they do the identical right here.

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I get pleasure from watching Everton and, specifically, Jack Grealish, however I fear about their firepower up entrance.

If that they had a goalscorer I’d most likely say they might get one thing, however as a substitute I’m going with Palace to maintain a clear sheet and to take dwelling the factors.

Sutton’s prediction: 0-1

Rod’s prediction: Palace are flying in the meanwhile, however Everton are properly organised and far improved from final season. It is obtained draw written throughout it. 1-1

AI’s prediction: 2-2

Newcastle scored 4 targets in Belgium in midweek – the identical quantity as they’ve managed of their first six league video games.

Eddie Howe’s facet are the joint lowest scorers within the Premier League, together with Villa and Wolves, so getting an enormous win like that can be vital for them.

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They’ve misplaced twice at dwelling already, however that was to Arsenal and Liverpool, and on each events to late targets.

Sure, the Gunners have been the higher workforce on Sunday however Newcastle had a number of probabilities towards Liverpool to allow them to positively really feel a bit arduous finished by.

I’m anticipating them to get extra probabilities right here, as a result of I believe this sport can be actually open with each groups going for it.

I’m going to go together with Newcastle to be sporting their capturing boots once more, and maintain Ange Postecoglou ready for his first Premier League win.

Sutton’s prediction: 3-1

Rod’s prediction: I’m very hardly ever a betting man however an concept popped into my head close to the tip of final season the place I believed Forest did not have the squad to deal with Europe however they’re the sort of workforce that can go on a cup run, so I put a tenner on them to win a European competitors of some kind, and get relegated.

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I may form of see it taking place the place they’ve too many video games and it simply falls aside within the league – it practically occurred with Spurs and United final 12 months too. 2-0.

AI’s prediction: 1-0

Wolves gave it go towards Tottenham final week and virtually took all three factors – perhaps the impact of a brand new contract is kicking in for Vitor Pereira?

Being critical, they’ve misplaced their first three dwelling league video games this season and, with Sunderland and Leeds each doing higher than anticipated, they can’t afford to lose 4 on the trot, so that they want one thing right here.

Brighton made essentially the most of their numerical benefit towards Chelsea final week, however it’s arduous to know what to anticipate from them off the again of that sport the place they have been up towards 10 males.

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I do not really feel like I’m doing very properly with my Brighton predictions this season – the truth is I’ve not obtained any of them proper to date – so I’m not too assured about calling this one.

That is most likely going to finish up as a draw however I’m nonetheless being courageous so I’ve picked one other winner. I ought to most likely get an award for being so daring with my predictions, even once I’m unsuitable.

Sutton’s prediction: 1-2

Rod’s prediction: Wolves appeared fairly poor towards us. After we performed them, everybody was downbeat within the Leeds discussion groups after we have been dropping – then abruptly we scored three targets and every part was rosy! 1-2

AI’s prediction: 0-1

Gtech Neighborhood Stadium, 16:30 BST

Metropolis have been up towards counter-attacking Monaco on Wednesday, and Brentford can be enjoying in precisely the identical method.

I used to be on the Monaco sport for five Dwell and I’m not absolutely satisfied by Metropolis, regardless of their present six-game unbeaten run.

On the up facet for Pep Guardiola’s facet, Phil Foden was wonderful once more and Erling Haaland’s ending was ridiculously good – his header for Metropolis’s second aim was like watching me within the Nineteen Nineties, and he seems unstoppable.

Foden appeared sharp as something, particularly within the first half. Seeing him again in type is sweet for England boss Thomas Tuchel in addition to for Guardiola, versus final season when he was inconsistent and could not discover his degree.

I nonetheless assume Metropolis have gotten points in a lot of positions, nevertheless. Within the centre of midfield Nico Gonzalez has been disappointing since he got here in, and the entire of their proper flank is a large downside.

Bernardo Silva had such little impact on the sport, and behind him there’s a lack of belief within the right-back space as properly.

Brentford will attempt to hit them on the break and there’s a probability they might sucker Metropolis, however Foden and Haaland must be the distinction between the 2 sides.

Will probably be shut, however I do not see the Bees beating one other Manchester workforce after their win over United final week.

Sutton’s prediction: 1-2

Rod’s prediction: It looks like Metropolis have began to seem like their outdated selves, with a few wobbles right here and there. 1-2

AI’s prediction: 0-2

How did Sutton do final week?

The result of week six was not determined till the ultimate sport, between Everton and West Ham on Monday.

Considered one of Sutton’s visitors, Kidwild, was spot on together with his 1-1 prediction, which denied AI its first outright victory.

Chris and the BBC readers each obtained two right outcomes with one actual rating from the ten video games, providing you with and him 50 factors.

AI obtained three right outcomes, with one actual rating, for a complete of 60 factors.

There have been two visitors, rappers Kidwild and Blanco – Kidwild obtained 4 right outcomes with one actual rating for 70 factors, whereas Blanco obtained two right outcomes with one actual rating for 50 factors – that means they ended up with a mean of 60 factors too.

“I do not depend shared wins,” mentioned Sutton. “It is a draw.”

Weekly wins, ties and whole factors after week six. . .

Guest leaderboard 2025-26. . * Average after six weeks.

Visitor leaderboard 2025-26. . * Common after six weeks.

October 2, 2025 0 comments

Premier League

‘We felt like Premier League footballers’ – Jones relives 2005 Ashes

by Soccer-News July 20, 2025

written by Soccer-News

“We felt like Premier League footballers. There was a large crowd and so they had turned away 10,000 individuals. It was obscene the quantity of people that wished to return and watch.

“It was like, ‘wow that is one thing to behold’. I do not assume it will ever occur once more.”

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It might be 20 years since arguably essentially the most iconic Take a look at collection in Ashes historical past, however former England bowler Simon Jones can nonetheless see each second in his thoughts’s eye.

Jones’ 20-20 imaginative and prescient is hardly shocking given the larger image: 2005 was England’s first Ashes collection win since 1987. It not solely ended an 18-year, eight-series shedding run however it was an countless cricketing summer time that flipped the Ashes narrative.

England groups since that summer time have saved that storied collection of their psyche someplace. They enter with a perception that victory is an possibility once more.

Jones’ story mirrors that big-picture narrative.

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The 2005 collection – – was the zenith of a profession cruelly reduce brief by harm.

Jones took 18 wickets, together with a career-best 6-53 at Trent Bridge, regardless of, appropriately maybe, solely enjoying three and a half Checks due to an ankle harm.

Regardless of that setback, the previous Glamorgan quick bowler remembers the summer time as a once-in-a-lifetime blur of entrance and back-page information and Downing Avenue backyard events.

All of it started at a febrile Lord’s that was extra stag social gathering than conventional tea social gathering.

The house of cricket is thought for its serenity. Popping champagne corks fairly than popping off.

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However as Jones remembers, 2005 felt totally different, even earlier than a ball was bowled.

“After we went by means of that Lengthy Room, and we walked down the steps and thru the pavilion, it erupted,” he says.

“I keep in mind Kev [Kevin Pietersen] turning round and saying to me: ‘What’s going on right here?’

“It nearly shocked us actually. Usually it’s all the members and they’re a bit subdued. A bit staid. A bit posh.

“However individuals have been saying ‘take these down’ and we have been all like, ‘OK, right here we go’.”

England rocked the Aussies early on – actually and figuratively. Ricky Ponting was hit within the grille in a primary innings throughout which they have been dismissed for 190 – however a Glenn McGrath-inspired Australia went on to comfortably by 239 runs.

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“When Steve Harmison hit Ponting, which by no means occurs by the best way, no one went to verify on him,” Jones says.

“The Australians mentioned this was a special group, like a pack of wolves coming in for the kill.

“And it was. We wished to take them down.”

If 2005 was probably the most iconic collection of all instances, the has gone down as top-of-the-line particular person matches of any collection.

Andrew Flintoff was at his imperious greatest with bat – making 68 and 73 – and ball, claiming seven wickets together with an iconic second-innings over throughout which he dismissed Justin Langer and Ponting.

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His act of sportsmanship – commiserating with Australia batter Brett Lee when England had scraped to a two-run victory, after Harmison dismissed Michael Kasprowicz – is a picture that’s etched into Ashes historical past.

Etched into Jones’ reminiscence is how Harmison’s remaining wicket saved him from “getting his P45” having feared he’d “dropped the Ashes” when he spilled Kasprowicz on the boundary earlier within the day.

Jones’ days within the solar have been to return within the third and Checks. England was in full Ashes fever by the third Take a look at at Outdated Trafford – Jones’ story about 10,000 followers being turned away refers back to the remaining day at Manchester.

If 2005 was the zenith of Jones’ profession general, his second-innings dismissal of Michael Clarke was the crowning second.

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Clarke appeared properly set on 39 till Jones, having lured the Australian with outswingers on repeat, delivered the right inswinger.

It is a supply that has gone down in folklore – each for the long-lasting sound of off stump being upended, but in addition for the stump mic recording of Clarke’s painful “oh no” realisation there was nothing he might do to reverse-engineer Jones’ excellent reverse-swing ruse.

England however Clarke’s dismissal, and a backs-to-the-wall Australia being compelled to bat out for a draw, illustrated a turning of the tide. “It feels like music,” Jones says of the Clarke supply.

“It is one of the best noise in cricket. Folks need the noise that stump made as their ringtone and stuff. I like the truth that individuals are nonetheless enjoying it now. It is a very long time. However individuals nonetheless assume it is top-of-the-line balls that has ever been bowled, so it is a actually proud second.”

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England and Jones’ 2005 tales have numerous widespread floor.

However there may be one key, painful error the place they diverge.

Whereas England have used that collection because the springboard to write down quite a lot of well-known Ashes victory tales within the 20 years since, for Jones it was a full cease.

The Glamorgan quick bowler was injured within the fourth Take a look at at Trent Bridge and by no means performed for his nation once more.

It is a truth that would depart Jones bitter – however it’s fairly the other.

There’s a contact of the Tennyson – “tis higher to have cherished and misplaced than by no means to have cherished in any respect” – to Jones when requested if he’d have given up that countless 2005 Ashes summer time for a extra elongated Take a look at profession.

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“On the time, I did not realise that might be my final Take a look at for England,” mentioned Jones, who performed 18 Checks for England.

“It was like going from the penthouse to the outhouse.

“I had one of the best summer time of my life in an England shirt after which to by no means play once more… however I am an enormous believer in what will likely be, will likely be. It is higher to have skilled it. Would you fairly play 100 Checks and never have 2005, or would you fairly play the 18 you performed and have 2005?

“It could be the 18 Checks with 2005 included on daily basis of the week.

“It did not get higher than that.”

July 20, 2025 0 comments

Premier League

“We Wish to End Strongly” – Curtis Jones on Liverpool’s Closing 4 Premier League Video games

by Soccer-News May 3, 2025

written by Soccer-News

Liverpool’s Premier League title could also be secured, however Curtis Jones has made it clear: this isn’t a squad happy with silverware alone. In an emotional and insightful interview with , Jones mirrored on the membership’s monumental title win and the celebrations that adopted — however his eyes are already locked onto the horizon. Whereas the champagne should still be chilled, the starvation stays red-hot.

Past the Buzz: Preserving Momentum Alive

Liverpool’s emphatic 5-1 win over Tottenham at Anfield sealed a record-equalling twentieth top-flight title, sparking scenes of euphoria throughout Merseyside. However for Jones, the job isn’t achieved.

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“Though we’ve gained there’s nonetheless video games that we’ve acquired to play… it’s unlucky as a result of the events can’t be as massive but!”

Picture: IMAGO

That candid mix of delight and professionalism encapsulates the angle Arne Slot has instilled on this squad. This isn’t a group taking its foot off the pedal. 4 matches stay, together with mouthwatering encounters with Chelsea and Arsenal, and Jones made it clear the group gained’t be coasting:

“We don’t wish to go from a season that’s been unbelievable to now we’ve misplaced our final 4 video games.”

That is greater than lip service. For a squad that prides itself on setting requirements, a robust end isn’t nearly delight — it’s about legacy.

Magical Reminiscences and Emotional Moments

Jones described Liverpool’s title-winning day as “the perfect sport I’ve ever been at”, a declare that speaks volumes contemplating his journey from Kirkby academy to Anfield’s hallowed turf.

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“It began from turning up on the bus… we will’t see! There’s who is aware of what number of followers already outdoors after which there’s 60,000 inside… The entire sport was simply ridiculous.”

Photo: IMAGO

Picture: IMAGO

The emotional weight of that second was not misplaced on Jones or the followers, with footage of gamers celebrating with ball-boys, supporters, and one another portray a portrait of unity — one thing Slot has constructed upon seamlessly in his debut marketing campaign.

“You’re leaping spherical like children. What an unbelievable day it was!”

Selflessness in Highlight

Jones’ humility and maturity stood out. Regardless of fluctuating sport time, he remained laser-focused on contributing — whether or not as a starter or from the bench.

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“I might by no means sulk and I’d by no means moan as a result of on the finish of the yr that is what it’s all about.”

In an period the place trendy gamers typically dominate headlines with switch calls for or social media discontent, Jones is refreshingly grounded. His feedback present a person who understands group dynamics, endurance, and the lengthy sport.

“To listen to them singing my title and appreciating me for what I’ve achieved… it couldn’t make me extra proud.”

Photo: IMAGO

Picture: IMAGO

Eyes on Information, Not Simply Medals

The ultimate stretch isn’t only a victory parade — it’s a possibility to rewrite historical past. Jones is aware of that, and so does Slot.

“If there’s data there that we will go and break… that’s what we’ll go and do.”

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With depth in each division, Liverpool’s rotation gained’t imply retreat. It’ll imply possibilities for fringe gamers to stake claims, and for this squad so as to add one other layer of dominance to a historic season.

Our View – Anfield Index Evaluation

There’s one thing deeply satisfying about listening to Curtis Jones communicate this manner. For Liverpool followers, it’s extra than simply phrases — it’s proof the guts of the membership beats loud in native lads like him. Right here’s a homegrown midfielder who’s lifted the Premier League title below a brand new supervisor, in a brand new period, however with the identical outdated Scouse grit.

Supporters will love how he talks about not sulking when he’s out of the group. That’s the type of mentality that wins titles — and extra importantly, sustains them. He’s acquired each proper to be buzzing, particularly with the Kop belting out his title, however as a substitute of basking within the second, he’s centered on ending the season in fashion.

Arne Slot couldn’t ask for a greater ambassador of the membership’s spirit. Jones isn’t only a squad participant — he’s a mirrored image of what Liverpool stands for. Ardour, perseverance, delight. And now, with 4 massive video games left and the possibility to interrupt much more data, you’ll be able to wager this group — with Jones at its coronary heart — will hold pushing for greatness.

May 3, 2025 0 comments

Champions League

Curtis Jones vs Cole Palmer: Who’re you choosing?

by Soccer-News November 13, 2024

written by Soccer-News

The change in teaching to Arne Slot has reaped rapid rewards that we’re undecided even probably the most optimistic of Liverpool followers may have anticipated.

Prime of the Premier League and Champions League tables with just one draw and one loss in 17 video games would have elicited some very excited reactions if Liverpool followers have been supplied it earlier than the beginning of the season.

However past simply the outcomes which were churned out, it’s the usual of particular person performances from sudden sources that appear probably the most promising of all of it.

, and have all stepped into roles that they’re excelling at this season in ways in which weren’t anticipated earlier than the season has began.

Maybe the most important shock has come within the type of , nonetheless, who has seemingly displaced Dominik Szoboszlai within the Liverpool beginning XI.

Is Curtis Jones higher than Cole Palmer?

With the reward for Jones beginning to roll in, former Liverpool participant David Thompson has made a really daring declare.

“By way of skill I do make the comparability with Cole Palmer.” Thompson stated on ’s post-match present after the 2-0 win over Aston Villa, “I feel technically they [Palmer and Jones] are on the identical degree”.

“I really assume does extra work off the ball.”

“I feel through the years the criticism Curtis has received, folks do probably not know if he’s a midfielder or he’s an attacker, however he has actually tailored his recreation this 12 months. And he’s that hybrid in between, he can do each, he’s completely sensational.”

Nearly as good as Jones has been this season to date – and he actually has – a comparability to Cole Palmer is as fascinating as it’s questionable.

Most particularly, the 2 play completely different positions. Jones is principally occupying the superior inside-right position in Slot’s 4-3-3 that Szoboszlai was working in earlier than him, whereas Palmer performs as a extra typical quantity 10 in a 4-2-3-1 system.

November 13, 2024 0 comments

Premier League

Liverpool v Aston Villa LIVE: Premier League crew information and line-ups as Jones and Diaz begin at Anfield

by Soccer-News November 9, 2024

written by Soccer-News

host in a late Saturday kick off as ’s facet try and enter the worldwide break sitting prime of the .

The Reds come into the match on the again of a within the Champions League and a victory over Villa will cap off a high quality week that has additionally seen Slot’s crew final weekend. Liverpool have gained eight of theur 10 league video games and have a two-point benefit over reigning champions Manchester Metropolis although any slip up may trigger them to fall down the desk.

Dropping factors towards Villa is a sensible chance. ’s males have made a powerful begin to the season and presently sit sixth within the desk although they’re in a poor run of type. A shock final weekend was adopted by a 1-0 loss to Membership Brugge after throughout the week.

Taking factors off Liverpool at Anfield would flip about Villa’s type and ship them into the break with a little bit of momentum. Can they achieve this?

Comply with all of the Premier League motion with our stay weblog under:

Liverpool vs Aston Villa LIVE

Liverpool host Aston Villa within the Premier League with kick off at 8pm, stay on TNT Sports activities

Arne Slot’s males sit prime of the desk and hope to keep up their lead over Man Metropolis

Villa hoping to bounce again following losses towards Spurs and Membership Brugge

Liverpool XI: Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jones, Diaz; Nunez.

Villa XI: Martinez; Konsa, Carlos, Torres, Digne; Onana, Tielemans; Ramsey, Rogers, Bailey; Watkins.

Liverpool FC – Aston Villa FC

Emery: Champions League is “the target”

19:30 , Chris Wilson

Talking in his pre-match press convention, Unai Emery mentioned that Villa are “having fun with the best way we’re doing”.

“Final yr was a really profitable season within the Premier League, attending to the Champions League. This yr, the target for us is to maintain it.

“There are one other seven groups that we’ve got to be extra clever than and extra aggressive. After final yr, we had been a shock once we had been getting the fourth place.

“We’re a aggressive crew to be within the prime seven, prime 5, prime 4.

“If we need to play within the Champions League or in Europe, if we need to be contenders for a trophy, we’ve got to play three matches per week. If we’re not in a position to play, focusing mentally and bodily on this route, we’re not going to get our goal,” he added.

“Tomorrow at Liverpool can be fully troublesome, they’re the favourites to beat us. They’re the favourites to win the Premier League this season, now in entrance of [Manchester] Metropolis and Arsenal as a result of they began very effectively.

“After all we’re motivated, we’re excited as effectively and we’re retaining steadiness.

“Hopefully on the sphere we will present our capability to face them, competing and with the chance to get factors.”

Liverpool vs Aston Villa

19:20 , Chris Wilson

Having gained simply one among their six Premier League residence video games towards Aston Villa between 2009 and 2014 (D2 L3), Liverpool have now gained 5 of their final six at Anfield towards the Villans (D1).

Nonetheless, solely Manchester United (12) and Chelsea (7) have gained extra Premier League away video games towards Liverpool than Aston Villa – they’ve gained six, as have Arsenal.

19:15 , Chris Wilson

These two sides have met 181 occasions previously, with the primary assembly relationship again so far as 1894. Liverpool have gained 91, with Villa profitable 52 and 38 ending as attracts.

When the perimeters final met, in direction of the top of final season in mid-Could, they performed out a 3-3 draw at Villa Park, although Liverpool eased to a 3-0 win on this fixture final day out.

Arne Slot particulars causes for wonderful Curtis Jones type and what he should do subsequent

19:10 , Chris Wilson

continues to earn plaudits and optimistic critiques after a high quality run of type with which has resulted in him .

Jones produced a virtuoso exhibiting towards Chelsea not too long ago, profitable a penalty and scoring the decisive aim, earlier than additional assists of late towards Brighton and Bayer Leverkusen.

Arne Slot has praised him greater than as soon as of late and the Reds’ head coach was requested about Jones’ improved performances and what he had altered within the midfielder’s recreation to deliver out his greatest type, replying a number of elements may need been at play – one among which was not right down to himself within the slightest.

Group information

19:02 , Chris Wilson

Unai Emery has made two adjustments to the facet that fell to a shocking 4-1 loss to Spurs final week.

In defence, Matty Money comes out for Diego Carlos, with Ezri Konsa overlaying at right-back.

In midfield, Leon Bailey replaces John McGinn on the right-hand facet.

Group information

18:55 , Chris Wilson

Arne Slot has made three adjustments to the facet that beat Brighton 2-1 final weekend. In defence, Andy Robertson is available in for Kostas Tsimikas.

In midfield, Curtis Jones replaces Dominik Szoboszlai, with Luis Diaz coming in for Cody Gakpo.

Line-ups

18:47 , Chris Wilson

Liverpool XI: Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jones, Diaz; Nunez.

Subs: Jaros, Endo, Szoboszlai, Gomez, Gakpo, Quansah, Bradley, Morton.

Villa XI: Martinez; Konsa, Carlos, Torres, Digne; Onana, Tielemans; Ramsey, Rogers, Bailey; Watkins.

Subs: Olsen, Bogarde, Maatsen, Mings, Kamara, McGinn, Buendia, Philogene, Duran.

Liverpool’s historic begin

18:40 , Mike Jones

Arne Slot has made the perfect begin by any Premier League supervisor in historical past, with 14 wins from 16 aggressive video games in cost.

Slot is the primary Liverpool supervisor to win as many as eight of his first 10 top-flight fixtures answerable for the membership.

(Action Images via Reuters)

A dip in type

18:35 , Mike Jones

Aston Villa have equalled their longest dropping streak below Unai Emery of three matches throughout all competitions. They may undergo consecutive Premier League defeats for the primary time in 18 months.

Slot on Salah, Van Dijk and Alexander-Arnold’s contract

18:30 , Mike Jones

One of many ongoing sagas regarding Liverpool is the contract negotiations with Mo Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk who’re all out of contract subsequent summer time.

Arne Slot has repeatedly been requested if there are any updates on the discussions and he replied that they concern the gamers and sporting director Richard Hughes and would stay inside.

Slot mentioned: “It might be unusual if I’ve no enter. Usually contract conditions are talked about by the individuals who ought to discuss them. I discuss this with Richard and that’s the place it must be, not in entrance of a microphone.”

Residence benefit

18:25 , Mike Jones

That is Liverpool’s a hundredth residence recreation versus Aston Villa in all competitions. The Reds have gained 62 occasions and misplaced solely 17.

‘The largest mistake I witnessed’: Unai Emery laments weird Tyrone Mings error in Aston Villa defeat

18:20 , Mike Jones

has mentioned ’ calamitous gaffe which condemned to defeat at was the largest mistake he has witnessed in his managerial profession.

The centre-back inexplicably picked up a brief goal-kick by with out understanding referee Tobias Stieler had restarted the sport.

Brugge captain Hans Vanaken transformed the ensuing 52nd-minute penalty to earn a 1-0 victory for the Belgian champions and finish Villa’s three-game profitable begin to life within the Champions League.

Villa’s final win right here was huge

18:15 , Mike Jones

Aston Villa’s solitary victory within the final 13 Premier League conferences was by 7-2 at Villa Park in October 2020, with Ollie Watkins scoring a hat-trick.

However, Villa have solely taken one level from six league visits to Anfield since a 1-0 win in September 2014.

Comeback kings

18:10 , Mike Jones

Final day out towards Brighton, Liverpool got here from behind to win for the a hundredth time within the Premier League, turning into the third membership to succeed in that milestone.

(REUTERS)

Face to face

18:05 , Mike Jones

Liverpool have gained extra league video games (94) and amassed extra league factors versus Aston Villa (324), changing to 3 factors for a win, than they’ve towards another membership.

The Reds have misplaced solely 5 of the final 39 league conferences between the perimeters each residence and away.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot explains left-back battle between Kostas Tsimikas and Andy Robertson

18:00 , Mike Jones

may hardly have wished for something extra from the primary 4 months or so of his time at however the fixtures hold coming quick and thick for the Reds, with subsequent up on the weekend within the .

That’s the last match earlier than the upcoming worldwide break and Slot can be hoping for a fourth straight victory in all competitions, which might make it six wins and one draw throughout a run of video games many noticed as being a giant check of the crew’s title credentials after a perceived simpler run at the beginning of the marketing campaign.

Slot has made positive to tweak his crew for video games to maintain his squad contemporary of late, with midweek seeing Liverpool hammer Bayer Leverkusen within the Champions League after a few such adjustments, together with Luis Diaz enjoying at centre-forward – the place he scored twice from and netted 3 times on the evening in complete.

Liverpool vs Aston Villa

17:55 , Mike Jones

Having gained simply one among their six Premier League residence video games towards Aston Villa between 2009 and 2014 (two attracts, three defeats), Liverpool have now gained 5 of their final six at Anfield towards the Villans (one draw).

Will they add to that tally tonight?

‘Villa can be robust’ says Van Dijk

17:50 , Mike Jones

The Liverpool captain defined what he’s anticipating from as we speak’s recreation and claims enjoying towards Unai Emery’s facet can be ‘robust’.

In his programme notes column he wrote: “It’s onerous to not be impressed by what Villa have achieved below Unai Emery within the final couple of seasons. They’re one of many strongest groups within the Premier League and have loved a very good begin to their Champions League marketing campaign too. Their collective organisation, mixed with their particular person high quality, makes them a very robust opponent for anyone.

“We should be at our greatest to beat them, then. We knew that this block of fixtures was going to be actually troublesome – and we’ve got one other equally robust set arising – so if we may head into the ultimate worldwide break of the yr with one other three factors within the bag, we might be extraordinarily happy.”

Slot points Jota damage replace

17:45 , Mike Jones

Diogo Jota sustained a difficulty throughout the 2-1 win over Chelsea at Anfield final month and has subsequently missed Liverpool’s final 5 video games.

He can be absent when the Reds host Aston Villa on Saturday evening however supervisor Arne Slot supplied an replace saying Jota could possibly be obtainable once more in a matter of weeks.

“We anticipate him again after the worldwide break… the primary weeks after the worldwide break we anticipate him again.”

On the character of Jota’s damage, Slot added: “I at all times say in Holland there’s privateness about this and I don’t understand how it’s over right here. Like I simply mentioned, he can be again one or two weeks after the worldwide break.”

(REUTERS)

Van Dijk needs to move into break with a win

17:40 , Mike Jones

Virgil van Dijk needs Liverpool to move into the worldwide break having gained all three of their testing fixtures during the last week. The Reds have triumphed in clashes with Brighton and Bayer Leverkusen forward of tonight’s match towards Villa.

Writing within the programme notes forward of as we speak’s recreation, Van Dijk mentioned: “After two huge Anfield wins in a row, we might like to make it an ideal hat-trick this weekend.

“Our Premier League victory over Brighton final weekend was necessary, with the crew exhibiting its character and high quality to come back again after a troublesome first half. And to observe that up with a giant efficiency towards Bayer Leverkusen within the Champions League on Tuesday evening felt equally important.

“If you play as we did towards the present champions of Germany, a crew that has been among the many greatest in Europe during the last 12 months or so, you may solely take confidence.

“Towards each Brighton and Leverkusen the environment at Anfield was wonderful, and performed its half in our victories. I’m trying ahead to a different loud one this night when Aston Villa go to.”

England’s most in-form midfielder is uncapped and able to present what Three Lions have been lacking

17:35 , Mike Jones

After turning into a mother or father, after incomes a spot within the table-topping crew, after a stellar player-of-the-match efficiency in a high-profile recreation and after offering one of many Champions League highlights of the week, has one other milestone event in his sights: a primary senior worldwide cap for .

On the age of 23, it’s hardly earlier than time. Certainly, given the discourse and dissatisfaction over the Three Lions’ midfield over the previous couple of years, it would actually appear odd to some {that a} common with nearly 150 video games below his belt would possibly solely .

Liverpool vs Aston Villa prediction

17:30 , Mike Jones

Aston Villa have faltered in latest weeks whereas Liverpool have carried on flying, so anticipate a house win regardless of it doubtlessly being a close-fought contest.

Liverpool 2-1 Aston Villa.

Predicted line-ups

17:25 , Mike Jones

With the worldwide break looming Liverpool will need to exit on a excessive and hold maintain of their place on the prime of the desk so anticipate Arne Slot to call a powerful crew.

Right here’s how we see the 2 groups lining-up to face one another as we speak:

Liverpool XI: Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, van Dijk, Tsimikas; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Nunez

Aston Villa XI: Martinez; Money, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Onana, Tielemans; McGinn, Rogers, Ramsey; Watkins

Aston Villa early crew information

17:20 , Mike Jones

Matty Money (calf) and Ross Barkley are nonetheless sidelined for Aston Villa, whereas Tyrone Mings will seemingly drop to the bench following his midweek horror present that .

Liverpool’s early crew information

17:15 , Mike Jones

Arne Slot has confirmed that Diogo Jota (rib) gained’t be again for Liverpool till after the worldwide break, whereas Alisson (hamstring), Harvey Elliott (foot) and Federico Chiesa are additionally sidelined.

Ibrahima Konate has made a really swift return from a wrist damage sustained final weekend, as he began towards Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday, and Slot additionally faces a alternative between Kostas Tsimikas and Andy Robertson at left-back, with the Greek seeming to have usurped the Scot as first alternative in latest weeks.

The place can I watch it?

17:10 , Mike Jones

The match can be broadcast on TNT Sports activities 1, with protection beginning at 7pm. Subscribers can even stream by way of the invention+ app.

You should buy a TNT Sports activities subscription , for less than £30.99 per thirty days.

If you wish to stream main sporting occasions when you are travelling or watching from overseas you’ll want a VPN. Get the offers within the UK. Viewers utilizing a VPN have to guarantee that they adjust to any native rules the place they’re, and in addition with the phrases of their service supplier.

When is the sport?

17:05 , Mike Jones

Liverpool host Aston Villa at 8pm GMT on Saturday, 9 November at Anfield.

(Peter Byrne/PA Wire)

Liverpool vs Aston Villa

17:00 , Mike Jones

face at Anfield within the Premier League tonight, with ’s facet seeking to keep on the prime of the for anther week.

The Reds entered the weekend with a two-point lead on the summit of the desk, having earned a , although they face an Aston Villa facet that’s as soon as once more competing on the enterprise finish of proceedings.

Regardless of a stable begin to the season, ’s facet , earlier than slipping to a irritating 1-0 defeat at Membership Brugge within the in midweek due to

Liverpool additionally featured in that competitors in midweek, to maneuver prime of the desk, they usually welcome a Villa facet who can be hoping to trigger an upset in Merseyside as they appear to remain across the Champions League locations.

Good night!

08:49 , Mike Jones

Welcome to The Unbiased’s protection of tonight’s Premier League motion as Liverpool host Aston Villa in a vital Premier League conflict that would decide who sits prime of the desk over the worldwide break.

The Reds presently occupy prime spot however face stiff competitors from Manchester Metropolis who sit second simply two factors behind them. With Villa proving to be robust opponents this yr Arne Slot’s facet must execute a near-perfect gameplan to interrupt down their defence and get the three factors.

We’ll have all of the crew information, line-ups and updates all through the night so persist with us as we construct as much as kick off at 8pm.

November 9, 2024 0 comments