Scotland: Honeymoon Ends as Sebastien Pocognoli's Side Struggle on the Domestic Front

Scotland: Honeymoon Ends as Sebastien Pocognoli’s Side Struggle on the Domestic Front

A back three that had previously appeared assured was relentlessly pressured, with composure giving way to uncertainty. Scotland’s usual leaders failed to take control. Robertson admitted his side had been beaten in the physical battle, a particularly revealing assessment. Determination should be the simplest quality to deliver because it does not depend on technical ability. […]

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Manchester United: Has Michael Carrick's Side Gambled by Not Signing a Left-Back?

Manchester United: Has Michael Carrick’s Side Gambled by Not Signing a Left-Back?

Amass finds himself in an unusual situation. The 19-year-old, a natural left-back developed in United’s academy, performed well while on loan at Sheffield Wednesday last season before suffering an injury shortly after joining Norwich during the winter transfer window. He later caught the eye in pre-season while providing cover for Shaw. Despite those encouraging displays, […]

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Celtic: Ex-skipper Paul Lambert labels side ‘simply not up to par’ but sees no need for ‘alarm’

Paul Lambert thinks his former side Celtic are “nowhere near the required standard” without additional reinforcements – but has cautioned against “overreacting”. Forward Camilo Duran remains the only summer arrival so far for the Scottish title holders, while midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has put pen to paper on a new contract after a short-term deal last […]

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Without scoreboards or silverware: how Norway made kids’ sports enjoyable – and forged a football side that defeated Brazil | Norway

When the match ended, the numbers seemed almost surreal. A nation of just 5.5 million inhabitants, returning to the global stage after nearly three decades away, had just overcome the five-time titleholders to secure a maiden quarter-final berth. During Norway’s triumph over Brazil on Sunday, there was barely a sliver separating the nimble footwork of […]

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