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A number of Sheffield United supporters have been left stunned by Rhian Brewster’s harsh red card for England’s Under-21s on Monday.

The Blades are currently preparing for Saturday’s Championship clash at home to Stoke City, as they look to respond after their 2-1 defeat at Bournemouth last time around.

Another international break has halted the domestic season for the time being, but a number of United players have been in action for their respective nations.

Someone who has had an unfortunate time of things is Brewster, after the young striker was sent off in farcical fashion for England U21s in their 1-0 win away to Andorra, with a video of the incident shared by The Bladesman (@The_Bladesman) on Twitter.

The 21-year-old received a second booking for an innocuous foul, summing up his struggles since leaving Liverpool, which has seen him score just once in 38 Blades appearances.

Sheff Utd fans react to Brewster sending off

These United supporters took to Twitter to react to Brewster’s unlucky red card, struggling to believe how harsh the decision was.

“Man, he can’t catch a break at the minute. Shocking decision”

Credit: @JackBarrett1889

“What did he actually get sent off for?”

Credit: @CMcB_89

“Quite frankly, ridiculous!!”

Credit: @LemonsTom

“That’s a really, really poor decision to send off Rhian Brewster last night”

Credit: @HoltChris

“That’s a shocker!”

Credit: @AlanBiggs1

“The refereeing in the Euros made me think things were getting better but this decision is ridiculous. Not even a foul”

Credit: @Mick616161

Crystal Palace have entered a new chapter of their history following the departure of Roy Hodgson after four relatively successful if pragmatic years.

New manager Patrick Vieira has been backed considerably in the transfer market with several new exciting additions adding significant strength to his first-team squad.

One of the reasons that the Palace hierarchy were able to finance such an overall was due to their previous work in the transfer market over the last few years.

Chairman Steve Parish had been prudent in the transfer market in recent windows, only spending over £10 million on one player – Eberechi Eze – since the summer of 2017, when Mamadou Sakho arrived from Liverpool.

Another player who arrived in the same season was Alexander Sorloth. The 6 ft 3 beast landed on English shores in the January window for £8.1m after departing FC Midtjylland and he was expected to fire Palace up the top-flight table.

However, things didn’t work out as expected for the now 25-year-old. He started four Premier League games in a row throughout February and March, and after losing all four and failing to find the back of the net, found himself on the bench for the remainder of the campaign.

The following season failed to produce a turnaround in Sorloth’s fortunes as he remained goalless in his first 12 league appearances of 2018/19, leading to a loan spell at KAA Gent.

Another loan spell at Turkish outlet Trabzonspor followed, resulting in the struggling forward producing the best form of his career to date. He managed a magnificent return of 33 goals and 11 assists in 49 outings for the Black Sea Storm, leading to a hotly contested race for his signature.

Norwegian outlet Dagbladet (as relayed by Sport Witness) states Sørloth’s time at Selhurst Park was “brutal”, which is why he was labelled a “failure and flop” at Palace, but after resurrecting his career with Trabzonspor, he had a large selection of potential suitors to choose from.

In the end, he opted to join Bundesliga giants RB Leipzig in an £18m deal just 12 months ago, meaning Palace made a healthy profit on a player who never scored a league goal for them.

The proceeds received from his departure provided a significant boost to the capital club’s coffers, allowing Vieira to bring in his own players following his arrival.

Sorloth only lasted one season in German football after bagging just six goals in 37 appearances for the Red Bulls and has so far failed to find the back of the net for new side Real Sociedad, indicating Palace struck gold by securing such a high fee for his services.

And, in other news…Signed for £26m, released for free: Parish endured Palace nightmare over 31y/o dud 

Manchester United suffered their second loss of the season on Wednesday evening as West Ham United knocked them out of the Carabao Cup.

The Reds Devils defeated the same opposition while on Premier League duties over the weekend but couldn’t repeat the trick after manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made 11 changes to his starting lineup.

A ninth-minute strike from Manuel Lanzini was enough to see off the hosts on an underwhelming night for United, with West Ham earning a place in the last 16 of the competition as a result.

One player who struggled more than most on his return to the side was summer signing Jadon Sancho. Although he showed flashes of his true potential, it was another frustrating night for the youngster.

Sancho arrived at Old Trafford as part of a £73 million deal back in July but has so far failed to register a single goal or assist in seven appearances for his new side.

The England international was unable to stop Ryan Fredericks as the Hammers full-back surged between him and Alex Telles on his way to setting up Lanzini for the only goal, setting the tone for a frustrating night’s work.

As per SofaScore, Sancho failed to have a single shot on target during the 90 minutes, was unsuccessful with his only attempted dribble, and lost possession a whopping 15 times, highlighting his ineffectiveness in the final third of the pitch.

He was unable to link up with the likes of Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard as the hosts struggled to get in behind their well-organised opponents, leading to a goalless night for United.

Sancho also only won 50% of his duels against a physical West Ham side and was dribbled past on one occasion. Better days lie ahead for the highly-rated 21-year-old, but it’s been a difficult start to life upon his return to English shores.

And, in other news…Lost 67% of his duels: Man Utd lightweight let Ole down again against West Ham 

Southampton earned themselves an impressive point on Sunday afternoon as they drew 1-1 with Manchester United at St Mary’s, and fans will have been delighted with the way that Ralph Hasenhuttl adjusted his side to ensure that they weren’t overwhelmed by the Red Devils.

The Saints were perhaps fortunate to go in ahead at half-time, as Che Adams’ strike was deflected past David de Gea by Fred, whilst Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side had a couple of attempts cleared off the line by Mohammed Salisu.

Despite being ahead, Hasenhuttl recognised the need for change and introduced Jan Bednarek at half-time, with the Poland international playing the second 45 as a right-back, with teenage sensation Tino Livramento pushed further up the pitch.

Although the 18-year-old was hugely impressive in the first half, Hasenhuttl was perhaps right to protect him after the interval when you consider the attacking talent that United possess, particularly with the way Paul Pogba has started the season on that left-hand side.

Bednarek, with the added protection of Livramento, was able to help contain the Frenchman more in the second half, and whilst he did pick up the assist for Mason Greenwood’s equaliser, the away side created very few clear-cut chances because of Southampton’s improved defensive shape.

Whilst you might feel that a manager making an early change to improve things is not something which deserves great credit, Hasenhuttl has come under a lot of criticism for his refusal to make alterations in the past, particularly last weekend when he waited until the game was lost at Goodison Park to make any meaningful changes.

The Austrian also deviated from his usual 4-2-2-2 setup late on as he introduced Ibrahima Diallo to switch to a three-man midfield, which offered the Saints more control in the middle of the park, which helped them weather the United storm and create good chances of their own, so they could’ve even earned all three points.

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Southampton fans must therefore be delighted that Hasenhuttl’s tactical changes helped earn them a point and will be hoping to see him continue to improve and adapt things throughout the season when there is a need to do so.

In other news… Southampton set to miss out on long-term target, fans will be gutted

Many Liverpool fans have been angered on Twitter, following news that their defender Andrew Robertson started on the right-hand side of defence for Scotland in their World Cup qualifying match against Denmark [BBC].

Walking into the game with no natural right-back figure due to COVID-19 related issues, former Reds assistant manager now Scotland head-coach Steve Clarke made the surprise decision to start Robertson at right wing-back in Copenhagen over Kieran Tierney [BBC].

Not proving to be a success and achieving a match rating of just 5/10 in The Daily Record newspaper, the 27-year-old was restored to his more natural berth at left-wing back for the second half.

Upon seeing this unusual turn of events, no wonder loads of diehard Liverpool fans took to Twitter to vent their frustration at the occurrence.

Liverpool FC fans react:

Replying to popular Liverpool FC fan outlet This is Anfield on Twitter, here is what some fans had to say about Robertson filling in on the right:

“Ye bit weird, taking away a big part of Robertson’s game not being able to bomb down the line and whip it in, think Tierney would be alright at RB and just sit and do a solid job defensively”

Credit: @2110lfc

“So we have got cover for Trent then …”

Credit: @kevhLFC”Stinking the place out unsurprisingly”Credit: @Kieran_Reid99″We’re giving FSG ideas”Credit: @KazzyLFC”Don’t tell Klopp”Credit: @mgksuarez”Klopp seeing this and now thinking that he can be the cover for Trent if needed”Credit: @alibaggedagainIn other news, Liverpool weighed up a move for a Premier League ace in the transfer window. Find out more here.

According to Football Insider, Glasgow Rangers have entered the race to sign striker Thomas Henry this summer.

The Lowdown: Gers sluggish

The Gers were magnificent last term as they won the Premiership for the first time in ten years, but they have not started well this term.

They have managed just one win in their first three matches, losing the other two (Sky Sports), so perhaps another goalscorer is exactly what they need, with Alfredo Morelos of course continually linked with moves away.

The Latest: Gers eye Henry

As per this latest report, the Gers are interested in signing Henry this summer.

They are one of a number of clubs eyeing the 26-year-old. Other potential suitors include Southampton, Watford, Swansea City, Gent, Venezia and Bordeaux.

The Verdict: Necessary?

£4.5m-valued Henry (Transfermarkt) has been in fantastic form in Belgium, both for current club Leuven and former outfit R Union Turbize-Braine. In his last 95 games in all competitions, he has managed a hugely impressive 56 goals, while he has also managed three strikes in three matches already this season (Transfermarkt).

However, it must be asked whether Rangers really need another striker right now. Steven Gerrard already has five strikers at his disposal in Alfredo Morelos, Kemar Roofe, Cedric Itten, Fashion Sakala and Jermain Defoe.

Is a sixth really necessary, no matter how prolific he is? This is one we could expect to sit on the back burner until Morelos’ future is decided. If the Colombian leaves, a move for Henry would make much more sense.

In other news, Rangers receive this injury blow.

Southampton have been credited with an interest in Gary Cahill recently and the experienced centre-back could be a superb addition to Ralph Hasenhuttl’s squad.

What’s the word?

According to Hampshire Live journalist Tom Leach, the 35-year-old centre-back is on a shortlist of names who could replace Jannik Vestergaard in Hasenhuttl’s side this summer following the Denmark international’s £15m move to Leicester City earlier this week.

Cahill is a free agent following his Crystal Palace exit earlier in the summer, and whilst he would be a short-term option for the Saints, he could add a wealth of experience to their backline.

Considering Southampton conceded 68 goals in the top-flight last season, and began their 2021/22 campaign with a 3-1 defeat against Everton at Goodison Park following a second-half collapse, it seems clear that they need to make defensive changes if they are to improve on the woeful run of form they have endured in 2021 thus far.

Would Cahill be a good signing?

Despite Cahill being 35, he was a regular in Crystal Palace’s side last season, making 20 appearances for the Eagles in the Premier League, averaging a 6.57 rating from WhoScored for his performances.

Although he perhaps wouldn’t be signed as a first-choice centre-back, he could offer Hasenhuttl some excellent squad depth in defence, whilst also offering the likes of Mohammed Salisu advice on defensive positioning, which based on yesterday’s defeat against Everton, is something the 22-year-old needs to improve on.

Cahill was highly rated by former Palace manager Roy Hodgson, as he sang his praises last season, saying:

“First of all he’s a very, very good defender.

“His position is very good, he’s exceptionally good in the air, he’s a strong challenger for the ball and a very good blocker of the ball. These are the defensive qualities we don’t talk about every day… They’re the qualities that get you the clean sheets.

“He’s also brought us leadership qualities, he’s been very good leadership-wise. He’s the best type of leader; he’s the quiet leader people don’t see from Row Z in the stand. He’s the leader we see in training week to week.”

[freshpress-quiz id=“594431”]

Therefore, he could also add some real leadership to a relatively inexperienced Southampton defence, which could go a long way to amending their issue of conceding soft goals this season.

And, in other news… Tom Leach drops Saints transfer update on £7.2m-rated “monster”

West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Sam Johnstone has rejoined his team-mates for pre-season training.

The club’s official Twitter account posted a video of Johnstone giving a thumbs-up with the caption ‘look who’s back’.

Johnstone was a late returnee after his involvement in England’s European Championship squad. Gareth Southgate’s made it all the way to the final, with Johnstone on standby if no. 1 Jordan Pickford was unavailable.

He made 166 saves for the relegated Baggies last season, more than anybody else in the Premier League. He was a full 19 clear of his nearest challenger – Sheffield United’s Aaron Ramsdale.

Johnstone also ‘prevented’ 4.3 goals over the course of the campaign, based on post-shot xG. That placed him in the division’s top 10 (via FBRef).

Johnstone’s West Brom future uncertain

The 28-year-old has now entered the final year of his contract at The Hawthorns.

West Brom are said to have reduced their price-tag to £12million having initially asked for £20million.

West Ham United unsuccessfully made a bid, and have now signed Alphonse Areola from Paris Saint-Germain.

West Brom fans flock to Johnstone video

“Admin you can’t do this to us if he’s leaving. That’s just cruel stuff that.”

Credit: @James18209464

“Hopefully to stay where you’re loved and appreciated Sammy J”

Credit: @shelleex5

“SIGN CONTRACT”

Credit: @WbaOllie

“Not for long tho”

Credit: @WBADyl

“Admin if he leaves after this tweet I’ll never forgive you”

Credit: @OkayGreatThanks

“Announce new contract”

Credit: @WbaNathan_

In other news, the Baggies are eyeing up this move. 

Southampton fans are livid after it was reported that the Saints do not want to get close to Blackburn Rovers’ valuation of striker Adam Armstrong.

Danny Ings dropped a bombshell on Southampton earlier on during this window as he turned down a four-year contract to stay at St. Mary’s Stadium which would have also made him the best paid player in the club’s history (Sky Sports). As such, Saints are in dire need of striker for next term and beyond.

They have been linked with a move for Armstrong, who netted 29 goals in 43 games in all competitions last term (Transfermarkt). However, according to The Lancashire Telegraph, the club do not want to get close to Blackburn’s asking price after having a bid of around £10m rejected for the forward.

The news was shared on Twitter by @SaintsExtra, and it attracted the frustration of the supporters – they clearly feel the board must invest in the squad if Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side want to survive in the top flight. The fans took to the social media platform to share their thoughts.

Let’s see what the fans had to say about the Armstrong news below

“Makes no sense, we didn’t renew Bertrand, Ings won’t accept his contract, we have offloaded some players already. Just pay the money!”

Credit: @HackedOffStuart

“#GaoOut”

Credit: @saints_josh2

“Joke club”

Credit: @PeckingOrder03

“You have GOT to be joking…”

Credit: @Ingsanity

“We’re nailed on for relegation this year”

Credit: @billytomkins8

“#GaoOut”

Credit: @sfcbilly

In other news, Southampton have also received a blow in their pursuit of this Premier League man.

Leeds United are interested in signing VfL Wolfsburg winger Josip Brekalo this summer, according to a fresh report which emerged on Monday.

The Lowdown: Wide depth required

The Whites excelled in the Premier League last season, with Raphinha and Jack Harrison arguably two of their standout players.

The pair chipped in with a total of 14 goals and 17 assists between them in the league and they should continue to be key men moving forward.

Despite their quality, Marcelo Bielsa may be on the lookout for a new signing who could provide competition in wide areas, in order for the depth in the squad to be improved.

[freshpress-quiz id=“359346″]

The Latest: Leeds keen on Brekalo signing

According to Calciomercato [via Sport Witness], Leeds are eyeing up a summer move for Brekalo, who scored seven times for Wolfsburg in the 2020/21 Bundesliga campaign.

The Whites reportedly ‘appreciate’ the 23-year-old as a player and are considering making a move, along with Inter Milan, Fiorentina and Atletico Madrid.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-leeds-united-news-10/” title=”Latest Leeds United news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

The Verdict: Strong option to sign

Brekalo looks an exciting option for Leeds to bring in, with it once claimed (via Bundesliga official) that he is similar in style to Bayern Munich legend Arjen Robben.

That says a huge amount about the winger’s quality and he could come in and put the pressure on Raphinha and Harrison, ensuring that there is healthy competition for regular playing time.

At 23, he is at a good age where he has plenty of experience – he has won 27 caps for Croatia – but can also improve further, especially under a manager of Marcelo Bielsa’s standing.

In other news, Leeds have been tipped to sign a player who impressed in the Premier League last season. Read more here.