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'It was a no-brainer to leave Tottenham for Man Utd – I was desperate for transfer'

Saturday's Premier League showdown between Manchester United and Tottenham will be a special fixture for one figure in particular

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick faces another of his former clubs in the hopes of maintaining his 100 per cent record at the Old Trafford helm. And Tottenham will be eager to get one over on their ex-midfielder after he said he was "desperate" to leave them for the Red Devils.

Despite one previous short-lived stint as caretaker chief of United, Carrick is building a different legacy in his new interim role. The former England international has won three from three in charge of the club to date, having beaten Arsenal, Manchester City and Fulham.

This year will mark the 20th anniversary of Carrick's £18.6million transfer to the Theatre of Dreams. The West Ham academy graduate spent just two season with Spurs before Sir Alex Ferguson took notice and plotted a deal to obtain his signature.

And Carrick was seemingly only too happy to do his part in materialising the move. So much so that there won't be many concerns regarding divided allegiances when Tottenham make their way to Manchester in Saturday's early kick-off.

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"I went to the World Cup with England and information was filtering through that clubs were in contact," said Carrick in 2010. "Tottenham told me what was happening, but it seemed to drag on and on.

"I was desperate to come. It was a no-brainer for me as soon as I found out United were interested. The first time I spoke to the manager was on the phone when the move was all sorted. I’ve never been so nervous about getting a phone call in my life. I’d heard the rumours about him, and I was scared stiff. That phone call will stay with me for the rest of my life."

His motivation was well-placed, it turns out. Carrick became an instant hit at United and made a career-high 52 appearances as he won the Premier League in his first season at Old Trafford, then completed a league and European double in his second term under Ferguson.

He collected a total of five Premier League winners' medals at United, along with a Champions League, FA Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and three League Cups. He eventually hung up his boots at Old Trafford in 2018, having made an impressive 464 appearances across 12 seasons for the club.

And his contributions may not stop there, at least if the beginning of his time as interim boss is anything to go by. United have looked nigh-unstoppable under his command, winning a Manchester derby on debut before two dramatic victories over Arsenal and Fulham.

Those latter two results were rescued thanks to late goals from Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha, the likes of which were somewhat common during the Ferguson era. And it stands to reason that the squad has been able to resurrect some of that never-say-die attitude under someone who saw Ferguson work his magic up close.

Two academy talents are hoping to get minutes under Michael Carrick as Manchester United face Tottenham, with one 18-year-old knocking hardest on the boss' door for a full Premier League debut

Manchester United youngsters Shea Lacey and Jack Moorhouse are keen to seize their chances under Michael Carrick in the Premier League. Lacey made his senior debut against Aston Villa in December under previous boss Ruben Amorim but has yet to appear for Carrick.

The 18-year-old has been named on the United bench for eight matches this season, having impressed in brief appearances against Villa, Burnley and Brighton in the FA Cup. Despite receiving a yellow card against Brighton, he was warmly applauded by supporters as he left the pitch.

Lacey, who is highly rated at the club, is pushing hardest for regular first-team action under Carrick, according to the Manchester Evening News. However, with the squad now largely fit, securing a place in the side is no straightforward matter.

Lacey may continue to find himself among the substitutes in the weeks ahead. But Amad, Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko are already vying for just three attacking spots.

In the middle of the park, though, an injury could present an earlier opportunity for Moorhouse, who trained with the senior squad this week before the Spurs fixture after returning from his loan spell at Leyton Orient on deadline day.

Since taking over from caretaker Darren Fletcher, Carrick has demonstrated a clear dedication to nurturing young talent and building closer ties with the club's academy.

He has brought back young talents like Habeeb Ogunneye from loan spells and reintegrated Joe Hugill into first-team training sessions.

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Carrick has also made himself a familiar face at youth fixtures, an area where Amorim faced criticism for his absence, signalling clearly to academy prospects that a route to the senior side genuinely exists.

"This club needs young players coming through and being the foundation, to understand what it means," Carrick previously said.

"It's something we need to grasp and keep building on."

United, who have remained relatively inactive during the January transfer window, are targeting European qualification.

The Reds have maintained their unbeaten run under Carrick, securing victories in all three Premier League fixtures against Manchester City, Arsenal and Fulham.

Manchester United take on Tottenham in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon, as they look to continue their good form under Michael Carrick

Manchester United take on Tottenham Hotspur this weekend, aiming to maintain their winning streak under interim head coach Michael Carrick. The Red Devils have triumphed in all three matches under the ex-midfielder's guidance, sparking optimism for Champions League football at Old Trafford next season.

Carrick's squad will welcome Tottenham to their home ground in Saturday's early Premier League kick-off (12.30pm). Ahead of the match, they occupy fourth place in the league standings, a single point ahead of fifth-placed Chelsea.

Tottenham currently find themselves in 14th position, but managed to claw back from a 2-0 deficit at half-time to secure a 2-2 draw with Manchester City in their previous match last weekend. In the run-up to the Old Trafford clash, both managers have provided updates on their squad's availability.

Carrick shared worrying news about Matthijs de Ligt. The central defender has been absent from the last 12 games across all competitions due to a back issue.

Carrick confirmed that the upcoming match will come 'too soon' for the player. "Matta [De Ligt], he's working his way back, taking good steps and improving," the United interim manager stated in his pre-match press conference. "It's a little bit too soon at the moment but, hopefully, it won't be too long [before De Ligt is back]."

He could be joined on the bench by midfielder Mason Mount, who missed the victory over Fulham after picking up an injury in training. This puts his participation in this weekend's match into serious doubt.

"Probably, Mason [will be available] sooner [than De Ligt]," Carrick said. "He's not too far away really. We're hopeful it won't be too long."

Another player set to miss out is full-back Patrick Dorgu. He picked up a hamstring problem during the match against Arsenal.

Speaking last week, Carrick confirmed that the setback would sideline him for 'a few weeks'. The Danish defender had been performing impressively for United since the interim manager's arrival, making his absence a significant setback.

As for Tottenham, they continue to grapple with an extensive injury list. There remains uncertainty surrounding striker Dominic Solanke's fitness, after he was substituted during the stalemate with City due to an ankle problem.

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After the match, the forward told Sky Sports: "I'll be good. I just rolled my ankle a little bit, but I'll be fine."

Whilst Solanke's participation remains in doubt, nine players are confirmed absentees for the fixture. Spurs will be missing Pedro Porro, Mohammed Kudus, Lucas Bergvall, Richarlison, Rodrigo Bentancur, Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, Ben Davies, and Kevin Danso, as the injury crisis deepens.

On a more positive note for Spurs, boss Thomas Frank has confirmed that centre-backs Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero will be fit for the encounter with United. They could potentially be accompanied by full-back Djed Spence.

"So Micky is good, [he] trained today," the Spurs boss stated. "He is available for selection for Saturday.

"So it's good. Djed Spence is getting closer. It will be a little bit touch and go, but there is a good chance that he will be ready."

Tottenham have endured a nightmare season under Thomas Frank and the North London side are now running the risk of losing one of their brightest stars to one of their European rivals

Tottenham boss Thomas Frank has been told that Luka Vuskovic will NOT return to the club amid his standout season. The defender joined German side Hamburg on loan until the end of the season in the summer.

And he has made 17 appearances in the Bundesliga this term and has scored four goals. While Spurs might have been hopeful of Vuskovic returning to North London ready for first-team exposure, it appears that he could be set for a permanent exit.

Former Tottenham defender Ramon Vega has claimed that he will quit the club, having never made a first-team appearance. Taking to Twitter, he wrote: “This player is not coming back to Spurs! Another of many players the Spurs had a chance with, but they made the wrong decision.

“This is an example of the problem Spurs have been having within the football department! A total neglect.

“They will make good money, for sure, but there’s no football direction within the club. Off to Bayern he goes, no wonder I will not blame him.”

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Vega is not the first person to suggest that Vuksovic could quit Spurs on a permanent basis. Former Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic recently appealed for Bayern Munich to make a move for the young defender.

He said: “All of Europe is talking about him right now. FC Bayern needs to do everything [to sign him]. I believe the boy has to go to Bayern.

“He has everything it takes to become one of the best centre-backs. I’m curious to see if Tottenham will manage to keep him beyond the summer, because in my opinion he’s already ready for the next step to one of the absolute top clubs. And for me, there are only four or five of those clubs in Europe.”

What's gone wrong for Spurs this season? Share your thoughts in the comments below

Vuskovic, 18, joined Tottenham from Croatian side Hajduk Split for £12million back in 2023 but he was unable to formalise the move until he turned 18 due to Brexit rules. He has since been sent out on loan to Polish side Radomiak and Belgian outfit Westerlo.

He remains under contract with Spurs until 2030. As it stands, Hamburg remain keen on retaining his services beyond this summer but that could potentially receive pushback from his parent side.

As it stands, Spurs have Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, Radu Dragusin and Kevin Danso as their centre-back options, while young defenders Ashley Phillips and Kota Takai are out on loan with Stoke City and Borussia Monchengladbach respectively.

Michael Carrick will be looking to get four wins in four as the Manchester United interim head coach welcomes former club Tottenham Hotspur

Manchester United will aim to make it four consecutive wins under interim manager Michael Carrick as they host Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford in a captivating Premier League encounter on Saturday lunchtime. This marks the first meeting between the sides since their dramatic 2-2 draw in North London back in August, when Matthijs de Ligt netted a 96th-minute equaliser for United.

Since Ruben Amorim’s departure and Carrick’s appointment, Manchester United appear revitalized, collecting a perfect nine points from three matches under their new boss and extending their unbeaten league run to seven games. The Red Devils have notched impressive victories over title contenders Arsenal and Manchester City, before edging out Fulham 3-2 last weekend thanks to Benjamin Sesko’s stoppage-time winner. Confidence is understandably high at Old Trafford, with United currently sitting fourth in the table—one point clear of Chelsea in fifth and two ahead of Liverpool in sixth. A win on Saturday would see United surpass last season’s 42-point total with 13 matches still remaining.

Victory against Tottenham would also give Manchester United four straight league wins for the first time since February 2024 under Erik ten Hag. However, recent history against Spurs has not favored United, who are winless in their last six league meetings with the North London side (three draws, three losses)—matching their longest such run, which dates back to 1914-1921.

Tottenham, led by Thomas Frank, have struggled at home this season—only Wolves have picked up fewer home points than Spurs’ 10. After a lackluster first half against Manchester City last weekend, Spurs rallied in the second half, with Dominic Solanke scoring twice—including a fortuitous scorpion kick—to secure a 2-2 draw and a valuable point. Nevertheless, Tottenham are winless in their last six Premier League matches (four draws, two losses), their longest such streak since the end of last season, and currently sit 14th in the table—closer to the relegation zone (nine points clear) than the top five (11 points adrift).

Spurs may welcome the prospect of playing away from home, as five of their seven league wins this season have come on the road. Only Arsenal (24) and Aston Villa (21) have earned more away points than Tottenham’s 19 so far. Additionally, Spurs are unbeaten in their last eight meetings with Manchester United across all competitions (five wins, three draws)—a feat only bettered by Chelsea’s 12-match run against United between 2012 and 2017. Tottenham also claimed a 3-0 victory at Old Trafford last season and have only once before won back-to-back top-flight away games against United, achieving that in January 2014.

Man United vs Tottenham Team News

Manchester United will be without Patrick Dorgu (thigh) and Matthijs de Ligt (back), who remain sidelined through injury. Mason Mount is also a doubt after picking up a knock in training and will be assessed ahead of kickoff. Manager Michael Carrick is likely to stick with his successful starting lineup, but may consider recalling Benjamin Sesko to the attack following his decisive impact off the bench in the previous match. Should Sesko return to the starting XI, one of Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, or Matheus Cunha would likely make way.

Captain Bruno Fernandes, who leads the Premier League with 12 assists this season—a personal best equaled only in the 2020-21 campaign—is expected to continue in his advanced central midfield role behind the main striker.

For Tottenham, James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski (both knee), Mohammed Kudus (thigh), Pedro Porro, Richarlison, Rodrigo Bentancur (all hamstring), Ben Davies, Lucas Bergvall (both ankle), and Kevin Danso (toe) are all unavailable due to injury. Micky van de Ven (unspecified) and Djed Spence (calf) missed the draw with Manchester City, while both Dominic Solanke (fitness) and Cristian Romero were unable to complete the full 90 minutes; all four will be assessed ahead of kickoff.

Solanke, who has netted five goals in his last five appearances against Manchester United in all competitions, will be hoping to recover in time to lead the line. Wilson Odobert and Mathys Tel are both pushing for a recall in attack, either to partner or replace Randal Kolo Muani and Xavi Simons.

Man United vs Tottenham Prediction

Man United to win and both teams to score - 7/4 (Betfred)

Over 2.5 goals - 1/2 (Betfred)

Correct score 2-1 - 7/1 (Betfred)

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Raheem Sterling is now a free agent after leaving Chelsea by mutual consent, and has already been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur

Raheem Sterling has just hours left to secure a move to a new club if he wants to feature in European competition this season. The 31-year-old forward left Chelsea last week by mutual agreement and is now free to join another side as a free agent.

The England international hasn't featured for Chelsea this campaign, with his most recent appearance for the Blues coming back in May 2024.

During the previous season, Sterling spent time on loan at Arsenal, where he racked up 28 appearances and contributed to the Gunners' run to the Champions League semi-final and their second-place finish in the Premier League.

As Sterling is currently without a club, he's free to join a new side on a free transfer whenever he chooses. However, a crucial deadline is fast approaching that the ex-Manchester City star may well be considering.

UEFA rules permit clubs to amend their squads for the latter half of the season ahead of the knockout phases of European competitions, including the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League, reports the Express.

The deadline for squad changes is midnight on Thursday, February 5. Therefore, if Sterling has ambitions of joining a club in European competition this season - and featuring in said tournament - he must complete a move to a new club before today ends.

Tottenham Hotspur have recently been mentioned as potential suitors for the now-former Chelsea player, whose last competitive match was in May last year on the final day of the Premier League campaign against Southampton.

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However, recent reports suggest that Spurs are not in the race to sign Sterling as a free agent, leaving the 31-year-old's future still uncertain.

Sterling's last appearance in a European competition was in March of the previous year, where he played a pivotal role in Arsenal's victory over PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League last-16.

The 2-2 stalemate at the Emirates Stadium saw Sterling set up two goals, earning him the player of the match award.

Paul Merson recently encouraged Spurs to consider signing Sterling to strengthen their attacking options amidst their ongoing injury crisis.

“They need players in. Thomas Frank and Tottenham have been unlucky with Solanke, Kulusevski and Maddison all out,” Merson stated on Sky Sports News.

"I would bring Sterling in. I think it’s a no-brainer on a free transfer. I really do. You don’t want to start bringing every Tom, Dick and Harry in to try and stay up. They just need one or two players in and get their players fit.”

Former Spurs boss Tim Sherwood says Liverpool could still sign Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven this summer despite agreeing a £60m deal for Jeremy Jacquet

Liverpool have been given hope that they could still sign Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven, despite securing a deal for Jeremy Jacquet. The Reds had a relatively subdued transfer deadline day, but did manage to confirm an agreement with Rennes for the signing of Jacquet.

It's been confirmed that Jacquet will officially join Liverpool next summer after seeing out the remainder of the current campaign with Rennes.

The Merseyside club have struck a £60million agreement with Rennes for the 20-year-old centre-back, comprising a £55m upfront payment plus an additional £5m in performance-related bonuses.

Liverpool saw off reported interest from Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal to secure Jacquet's signature, with the youngster set to link up with the Anfield squad ahead of the new season.

Prior to confirming the Jacquet deal, Liverpool had been linked with a potential swoop for Van de Ven from Tottenham, reports the Liverpool Echo.

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Recent weeks have seen Liverpool strongly linked with bolstering their backline, with Lutsharel Geertruida emerging as a potential target before the deadline, although no deal ultimately came to fruition.

Van de Ven is another name reportedly on Liverpool's radar, and ex-Premier League boss Tim Sherwood believes that, despite the Jacquet agreement, a move for the Spurs defender could still be a possibility.

"Is Micky van de Ven to Liverpool off? All Micky has got to do is to prove his fitness between now and the end of the season but that will make it very difficult for Tottenham," Sherwood said in an interview with CasinoStugan.

"Van de Ven is what I call a hierarchy player, players who when they are fit, they will play. They are the players that fans crave, and Tottenham fans want those top players like Harry Kane.

"When he was fit, you knew he was playing, and they've only got one of those players at the moment and that's Micky van de Ven. If he's fit, he plays. Other than him, Tottenham's players are all a much of a muchness.

"I think Tottenham have got more chance of keeping Micky van de Ven than they have of bringing in another one of these players. That is the issue."

Sherwood also believes that Van de Ven will feature on the transfer wish list for numerous clubs, including Liverpool, this summer, with Man United also suggested as a possible destination.

The former Spurs manager went on to outline why the north London outfit still have hopes of retaining Van de Ven at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, despite the persistent speculation.

"If he proves his fitness, I think there will be a queue around the block for him," Sherwood said. "Hopefully Tottenham can keep hold of him but you know what it's like when a player decides he wants to leave. Unfortunately, if you don't let him go, you're left without the money and the player in the end.

"People may be shocked by that but it all depends on who they have as manager in the summer because they've got it wrong so many times before and it looks like they have got it right at the moment.

"United are a club that can go from where they have been to the top quicker than most because they've got the brand power, the money to do it. They can pay the big wages for the big players.

"They missed the boat before. They could have signed Declan Rice and Harry Kane. Instead, they ended up with seven or eight signings who were alright but mostly very poor.

"They won't want to miss the boat this time on Van de Ven. He will certainly be at the top of a lot of lists at any number of clubs and Tottenham will have to fight tooth and nail to keep hold of him.

"I think the only real way they keep hold of him is if Micky [Van de Ven] decides that there might be a bright future ahead at Tottenham, and right now they're down in 14th in the Premier League and out of the running for the two domestic cups. They're flying high in the Champions League but there are stiffer tests to come in that competition."

Despite the transfer window being firmly shut, Liverpool are still being linked with Tottenham's Micky van de Ven

Liverpool will play the rest of the season without a new defensive addition - despite signing one. The Reds agreed a £55million, plus a potential £5m in add-ons, to sign Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet.

However, the 20-year-old won't officially become a Red until the end of the season, leaving Arne Slot's side light at the back due to injuries to Conor Bradley, Jeremie Frimpong and Joe Gomez.

Even with the shortages in defence, Liverpool played some of their best football this season when defeating Newcastle United 4-1 last Saturday to end their five-match winless streak in the Premier League.

As is the norm in football, transfer rumours don't just come to an end as soon as the window closes, as the Reds continue to be linked with Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Micky van de Ven.

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Ahead of an important home clash against Manchester City on Sunday, Mirror Football takes a look at the biggest stories coming out of Anfield, including public worries about one of the club's most important stars.

Micky van de Ven rumours

The January transfer window may be closed, but that hasn't stopped rumours of Van de Ven making the move to Anfield.

Questions remain over Ibrahima Konate's contract situation, the injury past of Joe Gomez and teenage star Giovanni Leoni, who is currently sidelined after ACL surgery.

The questionable makeup of Slot's backline has led former Netherlands international Eljero Elia to give his seal of approval for Van de Ven to make the step up and leave Spurs for Liverpool.

He said: "I think van de Ven has to finish the season at Tottenham (by playing) consistently and show everybody he can go to the next level. He's strong and has good posture. He can score, he can dribble, and he can defend.

"If he continues like this, I think after the World Cup, he can make a good step to the bigger clubs. Not that Tottenham isn't a big club, but clubs that are a step above, like Real Madrid and Liverpool. I think it fits his career to move from Tottenham to the big teams."

Mohamed Salah problem

It's been a disappointing season for the Egyptian, who has scored just six goals and assisted another six in 24 games in all competitions. While he hasn't looked like the player who spearheaded the Reds to the Premier League title last year, he did earn an assist for Florian Wirtz in their comprehensive win over Newcastle.

However, it wasn't enough to quell the concern of ex-Liverpool defender Steve Nicol, who admitted his worry that Salah was unable to take advantage of a counterattack that saw him quietened by Kieran Trippier, 35.

The 33-year-old also struggled greatly in his one-on-one battles with Lewis Hall, as Nicol expressed his surprise at how quickly Salah has declined after arguably the greatest individual season in Premier League history.

The Scotsman said on ESPN FC: "We've all been asking the same question. How can you go from there to there just so quickly? Generally, it takes a bit of time when you start losing a bit of pace and your balance. Newcastle's right-back Trippier doesn't play every week because his legs have gone. Trippier is on the other side of his career.

"A ball was played through from Szoboszlai, it could have been played a little firmer, but Trippier caught him comfortably and Salah, during that little passage, at no stage looked comfortable on the ball. He's got a guy whose legs we do know have gone catching him, having been given a three-yard start.

"That's got to be alarm bells. When he was making mistakes previously and still scoring important goals, he knew... he has always been the same." Nicol claimed that Salah's awareness of his drop in pace has affected his confidence in front of goal.

He added: "When he used to give the ball away, it didn't affect his confidence because he knew he could still pick the top corners out, he could still run past people and score goals and make these assists. But now, there is nothing worse for a footballer when you realise you're losing things and not sure why, but it affects everything you do.

"Now it's chipping away at his confidence. That confidence looks like it's shot because any time he gets in a position where he used to pick the top corner out, he can't get anywhere close anymore."

Cristian Romero has spoken out to point fingers at the Tottenham Hotspur hierarchy above following the situation against Manchester City on Sunday and a lack of final day transfer activity

Once again it feels like Cristian Romero will have some explaining to do. The Tottenham captain took to social media to claim it was “disgraceful” that Spurs only had 11 fit players to choose from against Manchester City on Sunday.

At worst, it is a clear dig at Tottenham’s lack of transfer activity. At best, it shows a lack of thought and respect towards the club. And even the best case scenario - which he may try to explain away - is really damaging.

This, after all, was on the back of a heroic fight back against Manchester City on Sunday when Spurs came from 2-0 down at half time to draw 2-2. And they did it without Romero who went off ill at half time after, quite frankly, putting in a dreadful performance.

Romero wrote on social media: “Great effort from all my team-mates yesterday. They were incredible. I wanted to be available to help them even though I wasn’t feeling well, especially since we only had 11 players available - unbelievable but true and disgraceful,” he continued, accompanying the paragraph with a facepalm emoji.

“We’ll keep showing up and taking responsibility to turn this around, working hard and staying together. All that’s left is to thank all of you for being there and for always supporting us, the fans.”

Now, this is far from the first time that Romero has used social media to get his message across and also not the first time people have suspected that he may be agitating for a move. Only last month, Romero’s social media post had to be edited to take out the word “lies” when talking about a lack of support from the club’s hierarchy.

It originally read: “At times like this, it should be other people coming out to speak, but they don't - as has been happening for several years now. They only show up when things are going well, to tell a few lies.”

Do not forget that Romero is a World Cup winner, the club captain and, on his day, a world class defender. On his off days he is a liability who loses his head and costs his team.

Romero’s comments cut to the very heart of the club’s problem. Leaders. There is a real lack of leadership on the pitch which they are trying to address in the transfer market. Romero is supposed to be a leader, wears the armband but it almost feels like default because he has been given it among a lack of other obvious candidates. There must be a few now after this last outburst.

Tottenham clearly need to improve their squad. They tried to do it in January but were determined not to panic buy just for effect. That would be a disaster.

Instead, they signed Conor Gallagher for £34m as he became available. Top player, top pro, great attitude. And one for the future in Brazilian Souza. They also got James Wilson from Hearts but he is for the under-21s.

They tried - and failed - for more and Thomas Frank even went public on the fact they tried for Antoine Semenyo. They want Premier League players, good characters and have a strategy. They will go again in the summer. They are determined to stick with and back Frank. Yes, they have been hit by injuries which has left them short.

But this is a club struggling and in need of leadership to get them through some dark days which have been lightened by European results and a march into the Champions League knockouts.

The last thing they need is Romero pressing the self destruct button. Maybe he is a player they could actually well and truly do without because his messaging and his performances are so wrong.