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Darwin's theory of striking evolution

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has detailed his plan to the best out of Darwin Nunez ahead of a season-defining third year at the club.

Slot explained: "Bring him as much as we can into scoring positions. Again, I think every individual benefits from team performance.

"If we, as a team, can bring our attackers – not only him but also the other ones – as much as we can in dangerous positions, these players will score goals.

"That’s what we’ve seen in pre-season, where we even scored goals out of smaller chances. It’s up to us to bring him or Diogo [Jota] or other attackers as much as we can into promising positions for them and then he, like all the others, will score their goals."

Od-e to joy

Tottenham have announced the surprise signing of Wilson Odobert from Burnley.

The 19-year-old has signed a contract until 2029 with the club, who have even registered him in time to feature in their first game.

Premier League teams who want to give debuts to any new players this weekend must register them by 12pm on the last working day before a game.

It wasn't expected that that would be an issue for Tottenham, who had no reported transfer in the works overnight.

However, within minutes of talkSPORT breaking the news that Odobert was joining Spurs, the club confirmed it.

Find out the latest in our own transfer blog below...

Missing Magpie

Callum Wilson will miss the start of the season for Newcastle.

Manager Eddie Howe has confirmed the news in his pre-match press conference this morning, ahead of the Toon's opening game of the new season.

Newcastle take on Southampton at St James' Park at 3pm tomorrow, but they will do it without No.9 Wilson who is sidelined with a back injury.

The 32-year-old missed the club's entire pre-season campaign with the problem, which required injections to treat it.

Howe said about the striker: "Callum will miss the first few games of the season. He’s making really good progress. He really feels good and wants to push a bit faster, but we’re just trying to manage him."

Slot luck

Arne Slot is hosting his first pre-match Premier League press conference this morning ahead of Liverpool's game against Ipswich.

The Dutchman fielded questions about the Reds' failed pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi and the current state of his squad.

He said: "I said many times already our squad is really strong so it is not easy to find players to strengthen Zubimendi was one but he chose not to come here so we go forward with the one we have.

"We're in a good place and [sporting director] Richard [Hughes] is trying to improve the squad in the background. Zubimendi didn't want to come and Richard tried everything. We kept the same team but lost Thiago, Joel [Matip] and Adrian and you always talk about transfers but we have a positive team already."

On Trent Alexander-Arnold's position, Slot added: "A position is always related to the team. Trent is known as a right full-back all his life and as a midfielder as a youngster.

"You see him going into midfield at times and in midfield at the Euros so he is capable of playing both positions really good so it is up to me to decide."

Tangled Webb we weave…

The PGMOL have performed a rapid u-turn on their own chief refereeing officer Howard Webb's claim that match officials’ club allegiances are to be made public.

PGMOL are now blaming miscommunication and say only policy will be made public - not their refs’ allegiances.

Webb had said: “When referees put in allegiance forms they’re asked to declare any specific interests in advance of the season, and as the season goes on should any of those things change.

“That’s going to be made public so you can see what that looks like, what those declarations of interests are.

“We review each of those, and then make a judgment if we feel there is a conflict. If you’ve got any personal connections to people who work for clubs as well, we’ll make an evaluation of all of those.

“If there is a conflict of interest that will be recorded and taken into account on the appointments.”

'We want to go for trophies'

Erik ten Hag has also discussed Man United's goals for the season and whether his team are at their best after adding new players.

"We know our targets, we know that we are in the right direction," he said. "We know we have won two trophies, we know our game model.

"So now we have to integrate the new players and if they can improve the game model and improve the team levels. And take it from there. I have always very high expectations but we want to go for trophies."

He continued: "We are complete and we are now working together for 10 days and always it will take a while.

"There will be more teams who have this problem. At the start of the season don’t drop points, work hard, make sure you are organised in and out of possession.

"We are not 100% form but we have to go from game to game to improve and to get higher performance levels in the team and in individual players.

"We will see how quick we can go with this process."

Shaw-t term injury

Man United boss Erik ten Hag has given an update on Luke Shaw and confirmed he will return in the 'short term'.

Addressing the media at his press conference before the Red Devils' Premier League opener against Fulham tomorrow he assessed the fitness of his squad.

Ten Hag said: "He will return in the short term, it doesn’t take long. We are looking forward, of course, for Luke Shaw.

"A very important player for our team so we want to get him back as soon as possible but we can’t force this process."

On whether his new signings Matthijs De Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui and Joshua Zirkzee will be involved, he continued: "They will be in the squad and Harry Maguire will be in the squad as well."

No more conflict of interest

The PGMOL have decided that they will be making the clubs that each Premier League referee supports public.

They will allow fans to see the declared allegiances of their officials to avoid conflict of interest claims.

This decision comes after a major controversy last season with Luton Town supporter Stuart Atwell taking charge of VAR for Nottingham Forest's crucial clash against Everton.

Forest had three penalty decisions go against them in a game they lost 2-0 at Goodison Park and afterwards, the club posted on social media to complain about Atwell's appointment.

So now, Howard Webb, the PGMOL's chief refereeing officer, has come out to explain the change they will be making.

Webb said: "When referees put in allegiance forms they're asked to declare any specific interests in advance of the season, and as the season goes on should any of those things change.

"That's going to be made public so you can see what that looks like, what those declarations of interests are.

"We review each of those, and then make a judgment if we feel there is a conflict. If you've got any personal connections to people who work for clubs as well, we'll make an evaluation of all of those.

"If there is a conflict of interest that will be recorded and taken into account on the appointments."

'We won't change our principles'

Southampton manager Russell Martin is not afraid to keep playing football in his style in the Premier League.

The Saints were possession masters in the Championship and regularly dominated games.

But they also made a fee mistakes playing out from the back and that can definitely be punished in the top flight.

However, Martin seems focused on still playing his way as ahead of their season opener, he said: "There’s a concern with any style for any team in the Premier League.

"We are going to be defined by being good enough. Me, the players, we’ll be called naive.

"We’ve done something here we really believe in. The players believe, the fans feel connected to it.

"We'll have to adapt and change a little bit in terms of having less possession. We won't change our principles."

Everton takeover update

American businessman John Textor has entered a period of exclusivity to buy a majority stake in Everton.

According to The Athletic, Textor has an agreement in place with current Toffees owner Farhad Moshiri.

However, any potential deal relies on the 58-year-old selling his stake in Crystal Palace as the Premier League forbids ownership of two clubs in the same division.

He owns 45 per cent of Palace through Eagle Football Group who also have a stake in Lyon, Botafogo, RWD Molenbeek and FC Florida.

Textor is looking at moving on from the Eagles though, as he has been exploring taking over another club in England.

And it looks like Everton could be his next venture, with the Toffees still seeking new ownership after multiple failed bids.

The Friedkin's Group, 777 Partners and TFG have all been close to buying the club off Moshiri this year, but talks have fallen through with each.

Textor is now next in line and after being granted exclusivity, he will be closing in on the purchase of Everton.

Sticky Toffees

Everton boss Sean Dyche has confirmed that he will be missing three key players for his side's Premier League opener against Brighton.

The Toffees are preparing to kick off the new season but they will be without Jarrad Branthwaite, James Garner and Seamus Coleman.

The trio were hoping to be back to full fitness in time, however, Dyche has reluctantly ruled them out.

"We were hoping a few would be back but they are not," he said at his first pre-match press conference of the season.

"That is unfortunate but the levels of performance and fitness through the rest of the squad have been good.

"Michael Keane has trained this week and trained fine today, so as long as there is no reaction then we think he will be fit."

Cherry picked

On a more positive note, Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou did get the chance to share his excitement at new signing Dominic Solanke.

The England striker is in line to make his Spurs debut against Leicester despite only joining the club in a club record £65million deal, including add-ons, from Bournemouth late last week.

The 26-year-old unveiled to his new fans before the club took on Bayern Munich in a pre-season friendly at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday.

Postecoglou has now revealed Solanke has hit the ground running behind-the-scenes having only joined in with training on Monday.

On seeing him in the flesh, the Australian said: "Thankfully, it's what we expected. He's a top pro and he's settled into the dressing room really well.

"Football wise, you can see how he's going to fit in. So far he's fitted in really well with the group in training."

Not laughing now

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has confirmed Yves Bissouma won't be available for the club's game against Leicester on Monday.

The Spurs boss revealed the midfielder has been internally disciplined after filming himself inhaling nitrous oxide on social media.

Mali international Bissouma has since apologised for his 'severe lack of judgement' after uploading clips of himself using the Class C drug - known as 'hippy crack' - onto Snapchat last weekend.

Reacting publicly to the scandal for the first time, Postecoglou said: "Been in the game for a long time, when a situation like this arises, I've tried to look at them in a couple of ways. First, there's a person and it's Biss and he's made a poor decision.

"There are still sanctions involved, and some of those are educational. He is a footballer with responsibilities.

"He won't be available on Monday. We've suspended him from Monday's game. He needs to build that trust back with both me and the group. The door is open for him and we can help him realise the decisions he makes impact the group."

On how Bissouma can earn back trust, Tottenham boss Postecoglou added: "Behaviour mate. It's that simple.

"It's about making better decisions. He was very apologetic to me, the club and everyone involved but that's just part of it."

Dyer Straights

Julen Lopetegui has discussed appointing Jarrod Bowen West Ham's new captain - a decision approved by his father-in-law Danny Dyer!

England international Bowen will wear the armband for the 2024/25 season, with long-serving defender Aaron Cresswell as his vice-captain.

The 27-year-old will follow club legends Bobby Moore, Billy Bonds, Mark Noble and even Three Lions teammate Declan Rice in skippering the Hammers.

And it's not just a proud day for Bowen, but for his family as well.

The forward has twin daughters with actor and West Ham superfan Danny Dyer’s daughter, former Love Island star Dani.

The pair have been together since 2021 and welcomed children Summer and Star, who were born last year.

On Bowen assuming more responsibility on the pitch now as well, Lopetegui said: "He has the commitment at the Club to become the next captain.

"We will all help him, and he is excited about the responsibility.

"I spoke to his father-in-law! He is one of our fans and he's going to support us for sure."

Welcoming Wan-Bissaka

New West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui has been speaking to the media ahead of his side's Premier League opener.

And he has been asked about whether eighth signing of the summer Aaron Wan-Bissaka will be thrown straight in against Aston Villa.

Lopetegui said: "He has played in pre-season with Manchester United, so we will see.

"It's true that he's only been here a short while, so we will see tomorrow, as we will with all of the new players.

"We are happy with Aaron, and all of the new signings are going to help improve our team. To have more competition in positions is important, and Aaron will add a lot of things to our team.

"He's very happy to be here. He is a good age, with good experience, and he is happy."

'It's a massive season for him'

Marcus Rashford has a lot of pressure on his shoulders this season after having a season to forget last campaign.

The Manchester United forward only scored seven Premier League goals in 2023/24, which was a major drop from his 17 the year before.

He also had multiple off-field problems that appeared to impact his on-field performances at Old Trafford.

The poor form led to him missing out on the England squad for Euro 2024 and now he is eyeing some redemption, with Man United's opener taking place tomorrow night.

talkSPORT's Ally McCoist knows how big of a season this is for Rashford and he's interested to see how he copes.

McCoist said: "I think it’s a massive season for Marcus Rashford.

“I’ve said how disappointed I was in him, his team and the supporters last season, but I think he’s at a crossroads.

“It looks like he is staying at Manchester United – you need a bit of certainty in your future and he’s now got that.

“He’s clearly disappointed in his own level of performance last year and deservedly, in my opinion, missed out on the England Euros squad.

“There’s a big question mark about his future and how he’s going to react to it, so it’s a massive season for him.”

Reds need recruits

Liverpool do not have what it takes to win the Premier League title from Man City - unless they sign players in two key positions.

That is according to former Reds midfielder and talkSPORT pundit Danny Murphy, who has weighed in on his former club's prospects for the upcoming season.

Although there's still time to go before deadline day, Murphy has warned that the club do not look capable of winning the league with their existing side.

"Well the window's not closed," he told talkSPORT. "And the reality is Liverpool's transfer business over the last five-six years has been excellent. I expect them to be top four, but I don't think they'll overcome City.

"They can't win it with this squad can they? I don't think so.

"They'll be better, of course they would. Significant new signings - yeah, I think a centre-half and a holding midfielder.

"When you look at the two best teams in the country last year with Rodri and [Declan] Rice, Liverpool don't have that.

"And although [Wataru] Endo and [Alexis] MacAllister did well in certain games and certain periods, that consistent person in the middle of the pitch who's physically dominant and able to control games like those two do, Liverpool don't really have."

Time for Tonali

Newcastle have confirmed the date that Sandro Tonali will be able to return to action.

Tonali is set to make a comeback after serving a ten-month ban from playing football due to breaching betting rules.

A statement released by the club reads: "Newcastle United can announce that Sandro Tonali will return to selection on Wednesday 28th August 2024 following the conclusion of his ten-month ban from competitive football.

"The club has received formal confirmation from the Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio (FIGC) that the player’s sporting sanction will run up to and including Tuesday 27th August.

"The Magpies will travel to Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup second round during the week commencing Monday 26th August (fixture date and time TBC), before hosting Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League at St. James’ Park on Sunday 1st September (kick-off 1:30pm BST)."

West Ham's new skipper

Jarrod Bowen has been appointed as West Ham's new captain.

Bowen has taken the armband from Kurt Zouma who looks set to depart the club for Saudi Arabia.

The 27-year-old will be leading the Hammers out throughout the campaign, with Aaron Cresswell his vice-captain.

Speaking about being named skipper, the England international said: “I am incredibly proud and happy to be West Ham United captain.

“We’ve had many great moments here as a Club. I’ve been here four-and-a-half years now, so to be named Club captain is a really proud moment and one that I’ll wear with great honour.

“It’s four and a half years since I joined, but it’s felt so much longer and that’s the enjoyment of playing for this Club and the relationships I’ve had with all the sets of players we’ve had, the managers we’ve had and the fans.

"It’s been one heck of a journey and from when I first signed to be sat here four-and-a-half years later and be named Club captain makes me so proud.

“Since I’ve been here it’s just been an upward trajectory in what we’ve done on the pitch, what I’ve done off the pitch.

"To get to this moment is another statement of love I have for this Club, along with when I signed my new deal last year. I said then that I want to stay here for the rest of my life and I haven’t come off that page.

"If I can go down as a legend here in years to come, that would be great.”

Transfers being hijacked is a story Tottenham bosses know all too well.

They thought they had landed Emmanuel Petit then Arsenal pulled their pants down, while they helped Willian essentially complete his Chelsea medical.

But they've also managed to sting their rivals before like in 1988 when they gazumped Man United to land Young Player of the Year Paul Gascoigne.

The Newcastle star thought he was heading a few hours down the road to Manchester. Gazza even told manager Alex Ferguson he would be joining him at Old Trafford.

So confident was the boss that he went on holiday believing United had secured the services one of football's most exciting midfielders.

However, Spurs, under chairman Irving Scholar, swooped in and offered to buy the player's family a house which changed his mind and signed him for £2m.

“Off I go, and I’m lying by the pool when there is a Tannoy for me to take a call,” Fergie explained in an interview with the late journalist David Frost. “It was [chairman Martin Edwards] telling me Tottenham had [signed him instead] by buying Paul’s mum and dad a house in the north east.”

The promise of a new home wasn't good enough, though, as his dad also asked for a car, given the new house had a garage.

Not only that, Spurs also bought his sister a sunbed!

“She should have got a spray tan and I would have a few more medals,” Gazza later joked as he recalled his regret on not joining United who dominated the Premier League in the 1990s.

Needless to say Fergie was not impressed when he returned.

The manager had wanted to sign him almost as soon as he took over at United in 1986.

A year into his reign, he was playing relegation-threatened Newcastle in the First Division.

In midfield for Man United were Norman Whiteside, Bryan Robson and Remi Moses - “all great footballers” - Fergie told Frost.

“And he just tore them apart,” he said, referring to 20-year-old rising star Gazza.

He is the one player Fergie regrets not signing, reflecting that maybe he could have helped him avoid the trappings of living in the capital as a young lad, alluding to the fact alcoholism affected his professional and personal life - something he has been very open about.

Gazza found superstardom two year after joining Spurs when he played for England at the 1990 World Cup.

In the nation's most successful tournament since they won in 1966, they reached the semi-final with one of the iconic images being of Gazza wiping away his tears with his no.19 shirt.

At club level, meanwhile, won the FA Cup in 1991, scoring a memorable free-kick against Arsenal in the semi-final, but he injured himself in the final.

It was bad luck after that, with his move to Lazio in 1992 not working out, though he had success at Rangers in 1995 and was part of England's Euro 96 semi-finalists.

For all his superstardom he isn't a Premier League legend. But it could have been different.

“We could have taken London out the road of him. We had Bobby Charlton, a Geordie. We had Bryan Robson, a Geordie," Fergie added.

“We had a structure of players who could have helped him – given him some discipline.”

Man United were at the start of something big, with the Premier League forming in 1992 and the club winning six of the first eight before the turn of the century.

Gazza did eventually play in England's top flight when he joined Middlesbrough in 1998 and then Everton in 2000.

MORE TRANSFER TALES

The 2024 Premier League summer transfer window is in full flow, and clubs have been splashing the cash ready for the new season.

July 1 marked the start of a new PSR [profit and sustainability rules] period, which meant that teams up and down the land started to spend a bit more freely.

June saw many clubs scrambling to sell players before the PSR deadline of June 30, leading to some strange deals between rivals to ensure no one got a points deduction.

But now those worries are over for another year, top-flight clubs are strengthening their squads ahead of the upcoming campaign.

A lot of money has been spent throughout the league and here are the biggest deals so far...

Julen Lopetegui's top target since becoming West Ham's manager was Kilman.

The Spaniard worked with the Englishman at Wolves and was a big fan of the centre-back.

Kilman has great technique and adds some much-needed youth and pace to the ageing West Ham defence.

The Hammers have splashed out a lot of money, but it should prove to be worth it.

Aston Villa broke their transfer record to sign Onana from Everton.

The Belgian midfielder returned from Euro 2024 and completed his £50million move to Villa Park soon after.

Villa fought off interest from Arsenal and Bayern Munich to get the deal done.

Onana will replace Douglas Luiz in Unai Emery's midfield as they compete in the Premier League and Europe this campaign.

Chelsea announced the signing of Neto during pre-season as they continued to bring in new players.

Neto has joined the Blues from Wolves for £51.4million to bolster Enzo Maresca's already jam-packed squad.

The winger was said to be in tears as he left Wolves' training ground and said goodbye to his teammates.

It was an emotional decision for him, but all focus will now be on finding a place in the starting line-up at Stamford Bridge this season.

His £52million switch to Manchester United saw him follow Joshua Zirkzee through the door.

The French centre-back featured in pre-season and was expected to play a big part in defence for Ten Hag's side.

However, he has suffered an injury that will keep him out for the first months of the season, delaying his competitive debut for now.

Tottenham broke their transfer record this summer by signing Bournemouth striker Solanke.

Ange Postecoglou got his man for a whopping price of £55million up front, with the fee rising to £65million with add-ons.

Solanke has signed a six-year deal at the club, having been rewarded with a move following a brilliant last campaign.

He netted 19 goals in the Premier League, which was his best-ever season in the top flight, and now he'll be looking to replicate that form for Spurs.

Tottenham Hotspur narrowly missed out on the top four last time out. Can they return to the Champions League this season?

⚡My quick betting tip

Tottenham Hotspur to finish in the top four at 9/4 with BetVictor

⚽ Tottenham Hotspur last season overview

Tottenham Hotspur were the early pace-setters in the Premier League last term, as Ange Postecoglou very quickly got to grips with his new squad. Spurs sat at the summit of the standings after 10 games, but a 4-1 loss to Chelsea precipitated a dip in form. Within just three weeks, Tottenham had dropped down to fifth.

That is where they finished the campaign, missing out on the top four by two points. Postecoglou’s side had a terrible end to 2024/25, losing five of their last seven games to miss out on the final Champions League qualification spot to Aston Villa. Spurs, in short, shot themselves in the foot, but they did at least secure a place in the Europa League.

⚽ Tottenham Hotspur manager

It did not take long for Postecoglou to win over the Tottenham Hotspur faithful last time out. That was in part due to positive early results - what set of fans would not be happy with a table-topping team at the end of October? But Postecoglou’s attack-minded style of play was just as important to winning over a group of supporters that had grown tired of the dreary, defence-first football served up by Nuno Espirito Santo, Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte.

“I've tried to stay true to that my whole career, and what I'm really passionate about in the game is the joy and excitement it brings to supporters and people who love it,” he said last year. “That is the way I want my teams to play and that is the way I want players to play. From that perspective, it is sometimes not easy because you usually just get judged on one thing and that is winning games of football. But I've tried to sort of stay true to that core of why I love the game.”

⚽ Tottenham Hotspur transfers

Tottenham Hotspur splashed out £40m on Archie Gray, a talented teenage midfielder from Leeds United, while Lucas Bergvall has also arrived in north London. The headline signing so far, though, is Dominic Solanke, who will spearhead Postecoglou’s team this season. Kyle Walker-Peters has been linked with a return to his former club, while Spurs are also thought to be eyeing Ebere Eze of Crystal Palace.

Joe Rodon, Troy Parrott, Nile John and Yago Santiago have left the club, but none of those absentees will be keenly felt at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Postecoglou’s squad is stronger than it was last year.

⚽ Tottenham Hotspur objective for the season

Tottenham Hotspur grew accustomed to Champions League football during Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure, even reaching the final in 2019. But they have been in and out of the competition since then and will be targeting a return next season. To guarantee that, Spurs must finish in the top four, although fifth may prove to be enough depending on how well English clubs perform in continental competition.

Of course, the north Londoners are even more desperate for a first trophy since 2008. Spurs could do with a run deep into at least one of the FA Cup, EFL Cup or Europa League along with their Premier League objective. For those backing Tottenham to achieve success this season, placing bets on their matches through the best football betting sites could be a rewarding option.

⚽ Tottenham Hotspur strengths

Tottenham Hotspur can play some lovely football when they are in full flow. The club’s motto is “to dare is to do” and, with Postecoglou calling the shots, this Spurs side lives up to it. Tottenham take risks with and without the ball, but when everything clicks they are a joy to watch.

Spurs also had a strong record in the second half last season. Only Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal performed better after the break than Postecoglou’s side. Tottenham kept playing until the final whistle, helped by the confidence gleaned from having a clear identity and defined style of play.

With a demanding set of fixtures ahead, maintaining this resilience will be crucial as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.

⚽ Tottenham Hotspur weaknesses

Tottenham Hotspur had an unwelcome habit of going behind in games last term, particularly at home. Indeed, the visitors to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium scored the first goal in nine out of 19 matches. That led to some thrilling comebacks, but Spurs need to avoid giving their opponents a head-start so often.

They could also do with tightening up at the back. Spurs gave up 61 goals last time out - too many for a club that is aiming to be among the division’s leading quartet. Postecoglou’s side must become more defensively resolute.

💰 What do I bet on?

Tottenham Hotspur to finish in the top four at 9/4 with BetVictor. In their second season under Ange Postecoglou, Spurs can secure a place in the Champions League.

Other Premier League club overviews

Arsenal

Brentford

Bournemouth

Brighton & Hove Albion

Chelsea

Aston Villa

Read more about the 2024/25 football season

Premier League winner odds

Premier League top 4 finish odds

Championship promotion odds

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Yves Bissouma will miss the start of the season after being suspended by Tottenham.

The midfielder apologised after posting a video of himself inhaling nitrous oxide on social media.

The Mali international uploaded clips of himself using the Class C drug - known as 'hippy crack' - onto Snapchat last weekend.

Bissouma could be seen laughing between taking hits of the balloon in footage he shared to his fans.

The incident came just hours after Spurs' final pre-season clash, where they lost 3-2 to Bayern Munich in the Visit Malta Cup.

Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou revealed that he has been suspended by the club for their Premier League opener against Leicester on Monday.

Postecoglou said: "Been in the game for a long time, when a situation like this arises, I've tried to look at them in a couple of ways. First there's a person and it's Biss and he's made a poor decision.

"There are still sanctions involved, and some of those are educational. He is a footballer with responsibilities.

"He won't be available on Monday. We've suspended him from Monday's game.

"He needs to build that trust back with both me and the group. The door is open for him and we can help him realise the decisions he makes impact the group."

Bissouma himself issued a statement apologising shortly after the video was picked up.

He said: "I want to apologise for these videos. This was a severe lack of judgement

"I understand how serious this is and the health risks involved.

"And I also take my responsibility as a footballer and role model very seriously."

As part of the Government's anti-social behaviour action plan last November, nitrous oxide was made a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs act.

This means that possession of the so-called 'laughing gas' with the intent to get high illegal.

Repeat offenders could face a two-year jail sentence, along with an unlimited fine.

Dangers of inhaling nitrous oxide can lead to nerve damage, depression, brain disorders and hallucinations as well as memory loss.

The incident is a major blow to Spurs ahead of their Premier League season opener away at Leicester.

Bissouma has starred in pre-season for the north Londoners, where he scored a superb solo effort in the 2-0 win over QPR at Loftus Road.

The ex-Brighton man rediscovered his form under Ange Postecoglou last season, where he proved to be a key player - making 28 top-flight appearances.

Leicester start their Premier League return by welcoming Tottenham to the King Power for the first Monday night game of the season.

The Foxes have endured a tumultuous summer, losing their manager, Enzo Maresca, and one of their best players, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, to Chelsea.

Former Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper is the new man in charge, and it already feels like this season is going to be a struggle.

The Foxes haven't spent much money so far in the transfer window, and the squad looks thin but they will hope to hit back on Monday.

Meanwhile, Tottenham, under Ange Postecoglou, will be looking to push into the top four after finishing fifth last year.

Spurs started brilliantly, but they petered out near the end of the campaign and missed out on Champions League football.

Leicester vs Tottenham: Dom's big day

This match is likely to see new Tottenham striker Dominic Solanke make his Spurs debut.

The north London club splashed out £65million on the former Liverpool and Chelsea forward.

Solanke saw his price sky rocket after an excellent campaign for Bournemouth, in which he scored 19 Premier League goals in 38 games.

Postecoglou has been crying out for a striker since Harry Kane left last summer, and in Solanke, he might just have the ideal man to lead the line.

Spurs impressed people last season with their enterprising play, so Solanke should get plenty of opportunities to score, and it wouldn't be a surprise if he was thrown straight in against Leicester.

Leicester beat Tottenham 4-1 in their last Premier League meeting in February 2023, last winning consecutive league games against Spurs in October 1999 (a run of three).

Tottenham have only failed to score in one of their 17 Premier League away games against Leicester, a 3-0 loss at Filbert Street in September 1997.

Of all Premier League fixtures to have been played at least 30 times, Leicester against Tottenham has the highest goals-per-game average (3.8 – 128 goals in 34 games). There have been 28 goals scored in the last five meetings between the sides alone (5.6 per game).

Leicester vs Tottenham: Date and how to follow

This Premier League clash is set for Monday, August 19.

Kick-off at the King Power is scheduled for 8pm UK time.

talkSPORT will have live and exclusive commentary from the east Midlands, with Adrian Durham serving as your presenter.

Commentary will then come from Sam Matterface, former Fulham midfielder Danny Murphy and Leicester icon Marc Albrighton.

talkSPORT.com will also have all the reaction.

To tune in to talkSPORT through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

Leicester are unbeaten on the last nine occasions they’ve begun their league campaign with a home game (W6 D3). However, the last three times they’ve lost such a match, they’ve been relegated at the end of the campaign – 1-3 v Newcastle in 1994-95 (Premier League), 0-5 v Bolton in 2001-02 (Premier League) and 0-1 v Blackpool in 2007-08 (Championship).

This is the seventh time Tottenham are starting their Premier League campaign against a promoted side; they’ve won five of the previous six, losing the other 1-0 against Sunderland in 2007-08.

Tottenham’s last four Premier League wins of 2023-24 came against each of the sides to finish in the bottom four (Nottingham Forest, Luton, Burnley, Sheffield United). They won all six of their league games against promoted sides last term, accounting for 30% of their overall victories (6/20).

Leicester vs Tottenham: Team news

The Foxes look set to be without three important players for the start of the season.

Jamie Vardy has only featured in one pre-season game, which was the first and hasn't played since.

Conor Coady is also set to miss the game, while Patson Daka's foot is in a protective boot after coming off against Lens last week.

As far as transfers go, Facundo Buonanotte and Bobby Decordova-Reid will hope to make their debuts after joining from Brighton and Fulham, respectively.

Isshaku Fatawu's loan from Sporting Lisbon has been made permanent, while Caleb Okoli could come straight into the defence.

For Spurs, Solanke should make his debut, along with central midfielder Archie Gray.

Lucas Bergvall is another young midfielder who has joined the club and is expected to be with the first team.

In terms of injuries, Richarlison is out with a calf injury.

Reserve goalkeeper Fraser Forster fractured his foot last year and is closing in on a return, but he's unlikely to be available for this one.

Leicester have lost half of their Premier League games played on Mondays (21/42) – only in Friday games do the Foxes have a higher loss rate in the competition (61.5% - 8/13).

New Leicester manager Steve Cooper’s last Premier League game in charge was a 2-0 home defeat to Tottenham in December last year with Nottingham Forest. This will be the 10th occasion of a manager taking charge of consecutive Premier League games against the same opponent but with a different team, with none of the previous nine losing both matches.

Tottenham’s Son Heung-min has been involved in 13 goals in 14 Premier League appearances against Leicester (9 goals, 4 assists), only having a hand in more against Southampton (15). Indeed, the Korean has scored five and assisted once in his last three against the Foxes.

Leicester striker Jamie Vardy has scored eight Premier League goals against Tottenham, only netting more goals in his league career against Arsenal and Watford (11 each). Indeed, the Englishman has netted seven goals in eight MD1 appearances in the Premier League with only four players scoring more on the opening matchday in the competition’s history (Shearer, Lampard, Rooney & Salah – 8 each).

Leicester vs Tottenham: What has been said?

Former Spurs and current Leicester midfielder Harry Winks is looking forward to taking them on.

He said: "It's a game I am looking forward to.

"My friends and family are going to be there, and it's against ex-teammates.

"It will be good to see some people.

"This will be my first time playing against a former team, but I am experienced enough to approach it like any other game, but I am sure there will be that added fire to want to win."

It could have been so different for Luis Diaz and Liverpool.

In January 2022, Colombia and Porto star Diaz was on the market for around £40m and with 14 goals in 18 Primeira Liga matches, the winger was attracting interest from top clubs across Europe.

Diaz still had more than two years left on his contract - but a £66m release clause meant he was available.

Tottenham were willing to pay £46m and their opening bid of £37.6m was rejected by the Portuguese club.

Spurs only had three days left of the winter window to complete the deal - and Liverpool read the urgency of the situation.

The Reds were long-term admirers of Diaz and manager Jurgen Klopp had already identified the forward as his top summer target.

While Tottenham dragged their heels, Liverpool acted quickly and decisively.

The Reds hijacked the move by offering a deal which could reach £50m, including an up-front fee of £37.5m plus a further £12.5m in potential bonuses.

Spurs were beaten though were adamant that Diaz's desire to join Liverpool meant there was nothing that could be done.

The Reds did not financially outmuscle their rivals and the total value of the bids were similar.

However, the Colombian's father told a slightly different story about how his son ended up joining Liverpool instead of Tottenham.

"Tottenham was one. Roma was also left behind in the process. They hesitated a lot and let themselves be caught by Liverpool," Diaz Sr said to BluRadio's Blog Deportivo in February 2022 shortly after his move to the north west of England as opposed to north London.

"Liverpool were faster than them, they needed him and they took him away.

"There were many suitors who wanted Luis' services, but he had the dream of reaching Liverpool. Because Liverpool are an elite team.

"After the first game, he told me that it was a team that works hard, complete, in which he will feel comfortable and will have the chance to play with high-performance players."

Diaz rubbed salt into Tottenham's wounds with an electric start to life at Anfield.

The 27-year-old injected incredible energy into Klopp's side and adapted to the Premier League instantly.

In the 13 remaining matches of the 2021/22 season, Diaz registered four goals and three assists, starring in a run that saw Liverpool win their last six games and miss out on the title by one point.

Injury plagued him the following season where Diaz featured for less than half of the 2022/23 campaign.

After the departure of Sadio Mane, Diaz was sorely missed as the Reds limped to a fifth-place finish.

But perhaps his absence was more acutely felt in north London, where Tottenham ended up finishing eighth.

In the summer of 2022, Spurs used much of the Diaz money to sign Richarlison from Everton in a deal worth up to £60m.

The Brazilian only managed one goal in the Premier League in his debut season at Spurs.

Fast-forward a year and Tottenham acted quickly to win the race for Maddison fending off Newcastle and getting the deal done early.

Last season, though, was one to forget for Diaz as his mind was elsewhere understandably when his father was kidnapped in his native Colombia.

He was released in the middle of November after being held for 12 days.

Now the player has been in good form going into the new season under manager Arne Slot. He scored twice in the 4-1 win over Sevilla and has even been linked with Manchester City, which the club have denied.

Barcelona, PSG and clubs in Saudi Arabia have also been linked.

Read more transfer stories on talkSPORT.com...

Over the past few seasons, there have not been many more impactful players in the Premier League than Bruno Fernandes.

Manchester United signed the midfielder in January 2020 and he became an instant hit, scoring eight in 14 Premier League matches that season.

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But down in London, one club has watched Fernandes become a fan favourite through envious eyes.

That is because Tottenham were on the brink of signing the Portugal international from Sporting in the previous transfer window - only for the move to collapse.

Fernandes was furious at the failed transfer but he got his dream move in the end when he joined one of the most glamorous clubs in Europe.

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He told The Athletic in 2022: “Obviously I wanted to go to the Premier League.

"The manager, Mauricio Pochettino, was the one who wanted me there. It was a good offer but Sporting tried their best to keep me.

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“The president (Frederico Varandas) spoke with me but he spoke with me on the wrong day.

"It was the day after they decided to refuse the offer from Tottenham and I was really angry.

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"Luckily for me, the manager (Marcel Keizer) was the right one at the right time.

“At the beginning of January, my agent said, ‘You don’t need to worry, because any time I bring you a club, it will be a dream club for you’. He knew that the dream club was Man United."

And what a move it has turned out to be, instantly becoming a hero at United and one of the first names on the teamsheet.

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Manager Erik ten Hag named the 28-year-old the club's new captain, taking the armband off Harry Maguire in the process.

The midfielder takes the free-kicks, corners and penalties, and has a penchant for fantastic goals as well as possessing incredible vision.

His goals and assists have helped the club finish in the top four in three of the five seasons he has been at Old Trafford, though he has had his critics, especially with United's poor final position last season.

They finished eighth with a negative goal difference, their worst placed finish since 1990 and the first time since then that they conceded more goals than they'd scored. In addition they finished last in their Champions League group though they did win the FA Cup.

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Fernandes, who turns 30 in September, is also expected to extend his current contract, which expires in 2026 for another year and is likely to be handsomely rewarded.

Any new deal he signs is likely to give him parity with Marcus Rashford, the highest paid player at United, who is thought to be on around £350,000-a-week.

This is a sharp turnaround given that some fans feared his dream move would come to a premature end. Speaking in May 2024, he said of his future: "I just want my expectations to fit with the expectations of the club," he said before the FA Cup final win over Manchester City.

"If you go talk to any fan, they will tell you the same thing. We want to compete for the league. We want to be playing Champions League football. We want to be in cup finals.

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"That is the standard. That is what I want. That is what you all deserve."

Tottenham, meanwhile, have clearly lacked a midfielder of such attacking output in that time period.

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Oliver Skipp and Rodrigo Bentancur have their assets but it could be argued they do not come close to what Fernandes can do.

And several other midfielders have been snubbed in that meantime, including Yves Bissouma, Tanguy Ndombele and Giovani Lo Celso.

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However, Ange Postecoglou is hoping the tide is turning in north London and will be praying James Maddison stays fit.

Read more transfer stories on talkSPORT.com...

Harry Kane finally won a trophy in north London - but he showed his class and loyalty to Tottenham in refusing to lift it.

The 31-year-old returned to Spurs, his boyhood club where he made his name, as part of the Bayern Munich side that won the pre-season clash labelled the Visit Malta Cup.

And Kane, who spent 14 trophy-less years spent at Spurs, helped his side win 3-2.

Kane came off the bench in the second half where he was given the captain armband's on his Tottenham return - a year after he departed in a deal worth more than £100million.

He came close to getting on the score sheet - firing narrowly over the bar - with first-half goals from Dayot Upamecano, Serge Gnabry and Thomas Muller proving to be the difference.

He had the chance to lift the trophy on the pitch following the five-goal thriller - but decided against doing so to once again show why he is so loved by Spurs fans.

He was caught on camera removing his armband, while shaking his head towards Joshua Kimmich, insisting he couldn't possibly do so out of his love for the Premier League side.

As a result, Bayern's usual skipper Manuel Neuer hoisted aloft the trophy, with Kane seen clapping during the presentation.

Though he did get his hands on some form of silverware - along with Eric Dier - who followed Kane to Bavaria from Tottenham in January.

The duo were presented with special commemorative gifts by Spurs legend and former captain Ledley King in a ceremony prior to the kick-off.

Both men were treated to a rapturous applause from the home faithful, with Spurs' all-time top scorer Kane soaking in the atmosphere.

But it was his wholesome decision to turn down lifting the trophy that sent social media into meltdown.

One Spurs supporter posted: "Big respect to him, he knows it's wrong at our ground plus he knows what he will get on social media for lifting a friendly trophy."

Another posted: "Loyalty is rare in football nowadays fairs to Kane."

A third added: "This is nothing but total class and respect from a legend of our club and a legend of a man."

This fan then messaged: "He's genuinely a really good bloke and I'm proud he's one of our own."

Meanwhile, another simply stated: "Ultimate respect to him."

Kane was quick to show his gratitude to his adoring fans after the match.

He said: "I am so used to coming here as the home player.

"[I've] been here so many times before so it was strange and putting this shirt on, being in the away dressing room, but I like to enjoy these occasions.

"I had an amazing career at Spurs, so many great memories and just great to see the fans again, so many players and staff I have a lot of relationships with.

“The game itself, I probably shouldn’t have been playing. I only trained yesterday but I was always going to play 10 minutes and it was good.

“Everything was really rushed through last year, so we didn’t have a chance (to say goodbye), but it was great way to say thank you to all of them.

"The reception I got was amazing and great to clap them around the pitch after, those who stayed behind and I will always be thankful for every Spurs fan for the support they’ve given me through my whole career. It’s been incredible.

“I just appreciate them seeing me and me seeing them again.”

Tottenham, coincidentally, confirmed the signing of striker Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth in a £60million deal on Saturday.

Kane was asked about the man who could prove to be his long-term successor in north London.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: "Yeah, he should be great.

"Dom is a great player and plays with high intensity and high speed, For sure, he's going to get chances in this team with the way Ange [Postecoglou] plays. You saw that today, two top teams going at it.

"I think it's a really good signing. I've seen him in the dressing room there and I just wished him all the best and of course I hope he has a great season."

Solanke enjoyed a fine season in front of goal for Bournemouth in the 2023/24 campaign, scoring 21 goals in 42 games in all competitions.

The Chelsea academy graduate told fans as he joined: “Me as a player, I’m ambitious on the pitch, I work hard for the team, score goals, leave it all out there and love winning, so hopefully we can win a few things together. That’s what I’m going to bring, that fighting spirit.

“I’d say my attributes are movement, goals, hard work and link-up play, so hopefully I can bring all that together at Tottenham.”

And Solanke will be desperate to hit the ground running to make fans forget who his allegiances were to when he was younger.

In a video that has resurfaced following his transfer, the former Liverpool revealed he used to watch Spurs' rivals Arsenal when he was younger.

Yves Bissouma faces possible punishment from Tottenham after the midfielder filmed himself inhaling nitrous oxide on social media.

Spurs have confirmed they have opened an investigation into the matter, with the 27-year-old since apologising for his 'severe lack of judgement'.

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The Mali international uploaded clips of himself using the Class C drug - known as 'hippy crack' - onto Snapchat last weekend.

Bissouma could be seen laughing between taking hits of the balloon in footage he shared to his fans.

The incident came just hours after Spurs' final pre-season clash, where they lost 3-2 to Bayern Munich in the Visit Malta Cup.

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And he now faces an anxious wait over whether he will be reprimanded by club chiefs.

Issuing a statement, he said: "I want to apologise for these videos. This was a severe lack of judgement

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"I understand how serious this is and the health risks involved.

"And I also take my responsibility as a footballer and role model very seriously."

Meanwhile a Tottenham spokesman added: "We are looking into the events.

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"This will be dealt with as an internal matter."

As part of the Government's anti-social behaviour action plan last November, nitrous oxide was made a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs act.

This means that possession of the so-called 'laughing gas' with the intent to get high illegal.

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Repeat offenders could face a two-year jail sentence, along with an unlimited fine.

Dangers of inhaling nitrous oxide can lead to nerve damage, depression, brain disorders and hallucinations as well as memory loss.

The incident is a major blow to Spurs ahead of their Premier League season opener away at Leicester next Monday night.

Bissouma has starred in pre-season for the north Londoners, where he scored a superb solo effort in the 2-0 win over QPR at Loftus Road.

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The ex-Brighton man rediscovered his form under Ange Postecoglou last season, where he proved to be a key player - making 28 top-flight appearances.

Bissouma may have already found himself in hot water with Spurs chiefs after he appeared to let slip that teammate Emerson Royal is on his way out.

The right-back is currently in Italy where he is set to join AC Milan on a permanent deal.

Again taking to Snapchat, Bissouma shared a video of himself in a Spurs training kit, where he and the defender shook hands before embracing in a hug.

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At the bottom of the video, he wrote: "One of the best guy (sic) I've ever seen in my life all the best there brother I love you I'll come see u soon there."