Salford Red Devils profit from missed conversion from Hull FC’s Ben Reynolds late on to extend winning run to four matches; Marc Sneyd registers five goals on 300th Super League appearance as home side consolidate fifth spot in table – watch every Super League match live on Sky Sports
Last Updated: 07/07/24 5:59pm
Salford held off Hull FC to earn their fourth straight win and consolidate fifth place in the Super League table
Ryan Brierley made a try-scoring comeback and Marc Sneyd celebrated his 300th Super League appearance with five vital goals as Salford edged Hull FC 22-20 to register a fourth successive win.
Hull half-back Ben Reynolds missed a 78th-minute conversion to Lewis Martin’s try to send the game to golden point as the Red Devils cemented fifth place in the table.
Full-back Brierley had sat out his team’s three previous victories with a rib injury but returned with a bang against a Hull side still without an away win in 2024 and who sit second bottom of the standings.
Hull led 6-4 in the first half and scored four tries to their hosts’ three in the game but Reynolds failed to improve his team’s final two touchdowns.
A minute’s applause to remember Rob Burrow took place before Super League’s only fixture of the day and there was further recognition of the Leeds Rhinos’ legend on seven minutes as all fans united to sing: ‘There’s only one Rob Burrow.’
The on-field action was less inspiring until Salford made a 27th-minute breakthrough as Deon Cross touched down.
Reynolds scythed through the home defence to register his first try for the Black and Whites and then booted Hull in front but it was all square at half-time as Sneyd kicked a penalty after the hooter.
Marc Sneyd starred for Salford on his 300th Super League appearance
Tom Briscoe’s off-the-ball challenge on Brierley earned him a yellow card and his temporary absence and a game-ending injury for hooker Danny Houghton was a double blow for Simon Grix’s side.
When Briscoe returned Salford were 18-6 in front thanks to Sneyd’s converted tries for Brierley and centre Chris Hankinson.
Young Hull forward Denive Balmforth provided an instant response with his third try in as many games but when Salford were gifted a cheap penalty on the hour Sneyd took the points on offer to move the Red Devils two scores in front again.
Final-quarter tries for Jordan Lane and Martin kept Hull in contention right until Reynolds’ costly late miss.
What’s next?
Hull FC host city rivals Hull KR on Saturday July 13 (2.55pm, Sky Sports Arena), with Salford visiting Catalans Dragons later the same day (5.25pm, Sky Sports Arena).
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Thousands of people lined the streets to pay their respects to Leeds Rhinos legend and motor neurone disease campaigner Rob Burrow as a private funeral service was held.
Burrow passed away at the age of 41 on June 2, four and a half years after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
The service was attended by many of Burrow’s ex-team-mates and coaches, including Kevin Sinfield, with whom Burrow raised more than £15m for MND charities since his diagnosis.
Image: Burrow passed away at the age of 41 on June 2, four and half years after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease
Sinfield – who ran seven ultra-marathons in as many days last December to generate funds – flew back from New Zealand, where he has been part of the England rugby union side’s coaching staff.
The funeral procession passed by Featherstone Lions’ ground where Burrow played rugby as a young boy, and slowed again through Featherstone near to where he played junior rugby.
Cars arrived and slowed into Pontefract Crematorium, passing through family and friends for the final time before a haka was performed as Burrow was carried out of the hearse.
Burrow’s former Leeds colleagues Jamie Jones-Buchanan, Ryan Hall and Matt Diskin were among those also present.
Team-mate and close friend Kevin Sinfield sent a special message to Leeds fans following Burrow’s passing
‘Burrow a true inspiration, a giant of a person’
Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington told the PA news agency of Burrow: “He was a true inspiration.
“The whole rugby league community has come together supported by Leeds Rhinos fans and so many others and his efforts over the last four and a half years with MND inspired the nation.
“With so much support from those such as Kevin Sinfield, politicians and other sports figures… it has been quite remarkable and he leaves a huge legacy. This is the final journey, it has been a remarkable chapter.
Leeds Rhinos gathered to remember their inspirational number seven and give Burrow the fitting tribute he deserved in the match against Leigh in June
“We all knew what the outcome would eventually be and Rob has been remarkable with his fight and what he’s been able to do, not only Rob, but his family.
“The whole family have come together and have been supported by sport in general. It’s brought people together and has moved the nation.
“He was full of life, full of ambition and full of enthusiasm.
“Rob was 5ft 4in but was a giant of a man, a giant of a rugby league player and a giant of a person.”
You can donate to the MND Association at www.mndassociation.org/skysports
Scotland begin their Americas tour by inflicting a heavy 73-12 defeat on Canada; Scotland rested a host of key players and had to come back from an early deficit but did so in style, scoring 11 tries in the process
Last Updated: 07/07/24 9:44am
Arron Reed races away to score for Scotland
Scotland overwhelmed Canada, winning 73-12 at the start of their Americas tour.
The Scots, resting a host of their key players, fell behind initially but soon took charge and debutants Arron Reed and Gus Warr, two of five uncapped players in the Scottish line-up, scored two tries apiece.
Canada’s Lucas Rumball scored an early try but any prospect of an upset was snuffed out from the moment Josh Bayliss went over for the first of Scotland’s 11 tries at TD Place Stadium, Ross Thompson adding five conversions and Ben Healy four.
Canada’s Peter Nelson is tackled by scrum-half Gus Warr
Warr reinforced Scotland’s lead after the break, first dancing through the line and, while Canada briefly held out, the scrum-half collected the ball again and dived over the ruck for a debut try.
Kyle Baillie’s converted try gave Canada respite from the onslaught, but the impressive Paterson and Warr combined for the latter to shrug off a couple of challenges and touch down.
Scotland looked a threat every time they pushed forward and Reed grabbed his second of the match after barrelling down the left wing and barging past a couple of defenders before going over.
Scotland breached the 50-point barrier just after the hour mark when Paterson deservedly got on the scoreboard following some excellent interplay, while Dobie touched down underneath the posts after being teed up by Reed.
McDowall also went over underneath the posts following some deft footwork to evade several challenges, while Steyn gratefully accepted Healy’s offload to round off the scoring.
Ireland’s James Lowe had try ruled out, while South Africa’s Cheslin Kolbe saw try stand after critical reviews from TMO Ben Whitehouse; Springboks hold on to beat Ireland in Pretoria; Watch southern hemisphere summer tour action live on Sky Sports
By Michael Cantillon
Last Updated: 06/07/24 11:33pm
Highlights of South Africa’s action-packed win over Ireland in their opening Test in Pretoria
Highlights of South Africa’s action-packed win over Ireland in their opening Test in Pretoria
Two crucial TMO decisions fell South Africa’s way as they defeated Ireland 27-20 at Loftus Versfeld in the first of their two-Test series, live on Sky Sports.
Welsh TMO Ben Whitehouse ruled out a James Lowe try for Ireland due to a subjective breakdown call, and then fed back there was ‘inconclusive evidence’ to rule out a Cheslin Kolbe South Africa try, which ensured a two-score lead.
Lowe’s try would have levelled the contest at 13-13, and handed fly-half Jack Crowley a conversion for the lead, while Kolbe’s effort moments later came as a result of Lowe keeping a Handre Pollard penalty kick to touch in-field – though replays suggested he was in touch while playing the ball.
South Africa – Tries: Arendse (3), Kolbe (65), Penalty Try (78). Cons: Pollard (4, 67). Pens: Pollard (18, 29).
A third TMO call then also went against Ireland as No 8 Caelan Doris was denied a try due to lack of evidence on replays.
Conor Murray raced in for a second Ireland try with five minutes to go, but a late South Africa penalty try via a ferocious scrum drive confirmed victory, with Ryan Baird striking a third for Ireland but with time all but up.
Less than three minutes in, South Africa struck the opening try as skipper Siya Kolisi set fleet-footed wing Kurt-Lee Arendse away quickly, who then scorched into space and past debutant Jamie Osborne to touch down.
Kurt-Lee Arendse opened the scoring for the Springboks against Ireland
Kurt-Lee Arendse opened the scoring for the Springboks against Ireland
South Africa No 8 Kwagga Smith knocked on the restart into touch, handing Ireland a lineout attack in the 22. When awarded a penalty, the visitors turned down the chance to kick for points in favour of a five-metre tap attack, but it proved the wrong call and a big chance missed when lock Joe McCarthy knocked on a poor Peter O’Mahony pass by the try-line.
On 13 minutes, a strong Robbie Henshaw carry forced South Africa to infringe at the breakdown. This time, Crowley struck over from 40 metres to get Ireland onto the board.
Watch England, Wales and Ireland’s summer rugby union internationals exclusively live on Sky Sports.Stream rugby’s summer internationals in 2024 and more with a NOW Sports Month Membership. No contract, cancel anytime.
Highlights of New Zealand’s thrilling win over England in the opening Test in Dunedin.
Highlights of New Zealand’s thrilling win over England in the opening Test in Dunedin.
Damian McKenzie’s three second-half penalties thwarted England’s hopes of a first win away to New Zealand since 2003 as they went down 16-15 in the opening Test in Dunedin.
The All Blacks made their early dominance count with unconverted tries from Sevu Reece and Ardie Savea, with England responding through Maro Itoje forcing his way over from close range followed by Marcus Smith converting.
Fly-half Smith, who had missed an earlier penalty, brought England back level at 10-10 at the break with his boot and although he missed another after the restart, his pass led to Immanuel Feyi-Waboso finishing to put Steve Borthwick’s side ahead.
England: Tries – Maro Itoje, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso; Conversion – Marcus Smith; Penalty: – Marcus Smith.
McKenzie kicked two penalties to restore New Zealand’s lead, and they survived a late error after the shot clock expired while the No 10 was lining up a kick at goal to snatch a one-point victory.
Story of the game
New Zealand, playing their first game under new head coach Scott Robertson, showed their attacking intent as they probed down England’s wings in the opening minutes, but the strength of the visitors’ set-piece earned them the first penalty of the game.
Yet Smith was unable to knock over what was a relatively kickable attempt from 40 metres out and the early pressure from the hosts eventually told in the 16th minute. Utilising the penalty advantage, New Zealand fly-half McKenzie sent a pinpoint kick to the right wing which was collected by Reece followed by the winger racing away to finish.
New Zealand took an early lead against England through Sevu Reece grabbing Damian McKenzie’s kick to the corner
New Zealand took an early lead against England through Sevu Reece grabbing Damian McKenzie’s kick to the corner
England’s cause was not helped by losing Joe Marler, replaced by debutant prop Fin Baxter, but they edged in front five minutes later on the back of Itoje’s pick and go from close range for a converted try shortly after Chandler Cunningham-South, born in Sidcup but raised in New Zealand, was denied.
It was not long before the All Blacks were back in front, though, and, with England’s defence at sixes and sevens following miscommunication between Ben Earl and George Furbank, full-back Stephen Perofeta picked the pass which sent rampaging No 8 Savea through for a second try.
But it was all square at the break after New Zealand came unstuck trying to run the ball from inside their own half on the final play, conceding a penalty which this time Smith slotted over to draw the tourists level.
Marcus Smith missed a straightforward kick to give England the lead against New Zealand
Marcus Smith missed a straightforward kick to give England the lead against New Zealand
A knee injury suffered by TJ Perenara late in the first half forced a switch at scrum-half for the hosts too, with Finlay Christie replacing him, but they were given a let-off in the opening five minutes of the second half when Smith pulled another kickable penalty attempt wide.
The Harlequins No 10 played a key role in England taking the lead in the 47th minute, though, pulling the strings for Feyi-Waboso’s score. Tommy Freeman was initially tackled just short, with England then working the ball from right to left for Smith to pick out the Exeter Chiefs winger with a bullet pass to the wing.
Yet once again, Smith’s kicking let him down as he was unable to convert, and the lead was narrowed to two points in the 54th minute as opposite number McKenzie slotted over from a penalty for his first successful kick at goal in three attempts.
Smith sent Immanuel Feyi-Waboso free to go over in the corner and give England the lead
Smith sent Immanuel Feyi-Waboso free to go over in the corner and give England the lead
He landed a second 11 minutes later as England were pinged for a ruck infringement defending their 22, but then gifted the away side a chance with under two minutes to go as he took too long to take a kick at goal from a penalty which would have all but sealed victory.
Despite throwing caution to the wind, England were unable to fashion an opportunity for a score and when the referee blew for a ruck infringement against them with the clock in the red, it allowed the All Blacks to breathe a sigh of relief.
‘England so close to creating history’
Sky Sports rugby union expert and former England international Will Greenwood:
“You could tell it was New Zealand’s first time together. They’ve lost some key players through retirement and playing in Japan. Their lineout wobbles, they had to resort to kicking as they couldn’t get their attacking game going.
“On the flip side of that, I thought England at times were outstanding. Their defence kept them in the game for long periods and then they went after New Zealand in the second half.
“The frustrating thing about sport is you can’t go back and play the last 15 minutes again. The beauty is they get to have another crack at it next week.
“They were so close to creating some history today.”
Ahead of the first summer Test against New Zealand, England faced the iconic Haka!
Ahead of the first summer Test against New Zealand, England faced the iconic Haka!
Former New Zealand international Nick Evans, speaking on Sky Sports:
“Credit to the England defence, Felix [Jones, England defence coach] has done a brilliant job. Their line speed and post-tackle work especially caused New Zealand a lot of problems.
“The All Blacks stayed in the fight in the second half. The lineout capitulated but their scrum was excellent. They didn’t quite get the speed of ball they wanted but they ground out a victory, which is going to be really important leading into Eden Park next week.”
What they said
Jamie George hailed England’s attacking mentality after they came so close to defeating New Zealand in the opening Test.
Jamie George hailed England’s attacking mentality after they came so close to defeating New Zealand in the opening Test.
England captain Jamie George, speaking to Sky Sports:
“I’m incredibly proud of the way we went out and attacked the game. Not a lot of teams come to New Zealand and do that. That shows the huge amount of growth in this team.
“There are definitely some areas [for improvement] – the scrum was one, the breakdown probably another. We’ll do a lot of honest work next week and make sure we go to Eden Park fully prepared.
“We wanted to make people at home very proud. I think we did that with our effort. A game of very fine margins.”
Steve Borthwick described England’s opening Test against New Zealand as a real arm-wrestle in the middle of the field as the visitors fell to a close defeat.
Steve Borthwick described England’s opening Test against New Zealand as a real arm-wrestle in the middle of the field as the visitors fell to a close defeat.
New Zealand head coach Scott Robertson, speaking to Sky Sports:
“We got into a hell of an arm wrestle, which we know Steve Borthwick’s teams are really good at. We didn’t get our kick game right, pushed straight after half-time and the second half was just a grind – and we got there.
“I keep thinking of the things that went wrong when I should think of the things that went right, like the score. It’s their sixth game of the year, it’s our first and we’re in a pretty steep learning curve.”
What’s next?
England now head to Auckland for the second and final Test of the series against New Zealand at Eden Park on Saturday July 13. That match is live on Sky Sports Action from 7.30am BST (kick-off 8am).
Watch England, Wales and Ireland’s summer rugby union internationals exclusively live on Sky Sports.Stream rugby’s summer internationals in 2024 and more with a NOW Sports Month Membership. No contract, cancel anytime.
Manchester United vs Liverpool, Tottenham vs Arsenal and Manchester City vs Arsenal are among games exclusively live on Sky Sports in August and September.
New Liverpool boss Arne Slot will face rivals Manchester United for the first time on Sunday September 1, live on Sky Sports, with the kick-off time at Old Trafford to be announced in due course.
Man Utd vs Liverpool will be part of a Super Sunday double-header on September 1 with the kick-off time of Newcastle vs Tottenham also still to be confirmed.
The first North London Derby of the season between Tottenham and Arsenal will be shown live on Sky Sports on Sunday September 15, with kick-off at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium at 2pm.
The top two from last season – champions Manchester City and runners-up Arsenal – then clash the following weekend as Pep Guardiola’s side host the Gunners on Sunday September 22 – kick-off 4.30pm – live on Sky Sports.
In total, Sky Sports will show more than 20 live Premier League games in August and September, including the season opener between Manchester United and Fulham at Old Trafford on Friday August 16; kick-off 8pm.
From Daniel Sturridge’s singing to Paul Merson’s passionate outburst, take a look back at some of the best quotes from the 2023/24 Premier League season
In the latest broadcast selections, Sky Sports will screen three games on the second weekend of the new Premier League season starting with Arsenal’s trip to Aston Villa on Saturday August 24 – kick-off 5.30pm.
The Super Sunday double-header on August 25 sees Newcastle go to Bournemouth – kick-off 2pm – followed by Slot’s first competitive Liverpool home game as the Reds host Brentford; kick-off 4.30pm.
Take a look back at some of the best goals of the Premier League season featuring strikes from Alexis Mac Allister, Alejandro Garnacho and many more
The following weekend Sky Sports will show Man City’s trip to West Ham on Saturday August 31 – kick-off 5.30pm – with Newcastle vs Spurs and Man Utd vs Liverpool the double-header on Sunday September 1.
Sky Sports will then screen two live games on Saturday September 14 as Aston Villa host Everton – kick-off 5.30pm – followed by the 8pm kick-off between Bournemouth and Chelsea at the Vitality Stadium.
A look back at some of the funniest moments in the Premier League from the 2023/24 season
The Super Sunday double-header on September 15 starts with the North London Derby at 2pm followed by Wolves against Newcastle at Molineux; kick-off 4.30pm.
Man Utd will be looking for revenge at Crystal Palace after last season’s 4-0 humbling at Selhurst Park, as Erik ten Hag’s side go to the Eagles on Saturday September 21, live on Sky Sports; kick-off 5.30pm.
Take a look back at some of the best goals of the Premier League season featuring strikes from Alexis Mac Allister, Alejandro Garnacho and many more
On Sunday September 22, the 4.30pm game at the Etihad Stadium between Manchester City and Arsenal is preceded by Brighton’s home game against Nottingham Forest; kick-off 2pm.
Sky Sports will then show four games across the final weekend of September starting with Liverpool’s trip to Wolves on Saturday September 28; kick-off 5.30pm.
A look back at some of the best goals of the Premier League season featuring strikes from Trent Alexander-Arnold, Moises Caicedo and many more
The Super Sunday double-header on September 29 sees newly-promoted Ipswich host Aston Villa – kick-off 2pm – followed by Man Utd’s home game against Tottenham; kick-off 4.30pm.
The south coast derby between Bournemouth and Southampton is then the Monday Night Football offering on September 30; kick-off 8pm.
Premier League matches live on Sky Sports
Image: The games live on Sky Sports on the opening weekend of the new 2024/25 Premier League season
Friday August 16
Manchester United vs Fulham, kick-off 8pm
Saturday August 17
West Ham vs Aston Villa, kick-off 5.30pm
Sunday August 18
Brentford vs Crystal Palace, kick-off 2pm
Chelsea vs Manchester City, kick-off 4.30pm
Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley talks us through the big talking points following the release of the 2024/25 Premier League fixtures
Monday August 19
Leicester City vs Tottenham, kick-off 8pm
Saturday August 24
Aston Villa vs Arsenal, kick-off 5.30pm
Sunday August 25
Bournemouth vs Newcastle United, kick-off 2pm
Liverpool vs Brentford, kick-off 4.30pm
Saturday August 31
West Ham vs Manchester City, kick-off 5.30pm
Sunday September 1
Newcastle vs Tottenham, kick-off tbc
Man Utd vs Liverpool, kick-off tbc
Saturday September 14
Aston Villa vs Everton, kick-off 5.30pm
Bournemouth vs Chelsea, kick-off 8pm
Sunday September 15
Tottenham vs Arsenal, kick-off 2pm
Wolves vs Newcastle, kick-off 4.30pm
Saturday September 21
Crystal Palace vs Man Utd, kick-off 5.30pm
Sunday September 22
Brighton vs Nottingham Forest, kick-off 2pm
Man City vs Arsenal, kick-off 4.30pm
Saturday September 28
Wolves vs Liverpool, kick-off 5.30pm
Sunday September 29
Ipswich vs Aston Villa, kick-off 2pm
Man Utd vs Tottenham, kick-off 4.30pm
Monday September 30
Bournemouth vs Southampton, kick-off 8pm
Your club’s Premier League fixture list
Arsenal fixtures
Aston Villa fixtures
Bournemouth fixtures
Brentford fixtures
Brighton fixtures
Chelsea fixtures
Crystal Palace fixtures
Everton fixtures
Fulham fixtures
Ipswich fixtures
Leicester fixtures
Liverpool fixtures
Man City fixtures
Man Utd fixtures
Newcastle fixtures
Nottingham Forest fixtures
Southampton fixtures
Tottenham fixtures
West Ham fixtures
Wolves fixtures
What are the key dates for the 2024/25 season?
The 2024/25 Premier League season will start on FridayAugust 16 and conclude on Sunday May 25 2025.
The campaign will run over 33 weekends, four midweek rounds and one Bank Holiday match week.
The Community Shield will take place on Saturday August 10, the Carabao Cup final on Sunday March 16 andthe FA Cup final will take place on Saturday May 17.
The Champions League final will be held on Saturday May 31. The Europa League final will be played on Wednesday May 21 in Bilbao, with the UEFA Conference League final a week later on Wednesday May 28.
Live Premier League on Sky Sports in 2024/25
Sky Sports will show 128 games exclusively live in the 2024/25 season – and a brand new agreement between Sky Sports and the Premier League means even more live matches from 2025/26.
From 2025, Sky Sports will broadcast a record minimum of 215 Premier League matches a season after finalising a new four-year agreement.
Throughout the 2024/25 season, you can watch Premier League match highlights for free – without being a Sky Sports subscriber.
You’ll find highlights from every Premier League game in the Score Centre, as well as on the Sky Sports website and Sky Sports app shortly after full-time, or from 5.15pm for midday Saturday kick-offs. You can also watch them on the Sky Sports Football YouTube channel.
You can stream Sky Sports live with no contract on a Month or Day membership on NOW – find out moreabout instant access to live action from the Premier League, EFL, F1, England cricket and much more.
Sky Sports+ – more sport, launching in August!
Sky Sports+ will give more choice to sports fans via live streams and a new dedicated channel, at no extra cost.
Launching this August, Sky Sports+ will be transformational in the amount of choice sports fans will have access to via live streams on Sky TV, streaming service NOW and the improved Sky Sports App on mobile.
With more coverage than ever before from the EFL, both tennis Tours and men’s Super League, Sky Sports customers can enjoy more than 50 per cent more live sport this year.
Manchester City have completed the signing of Vivianne Miedema, who has signed a contract until the summer of 2027.
Clubs across Europe and North America were interested in the forward but the 27-year-old has moved to City on a free transfer after leaving Arsenal at the end of her contract.
Miedema is the WSL’s all-time leading scorer. However, she has started just eight league matches over the past two seasons due to injury, including an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tear in December 2022.
Miedema, who joined Arsenal from Bayern Munich in 2017, won the WSL with the Gunners in 2019, as well as the League Cup in 2018, 2023 and 2024.
The Netherlands international’s decision to leave north London was mutual. Miedema was understood to be keen on a fresh challenge while Arsenal are looking to reinvest in their squad.
Upon signing, Miedema said: “The reason I chose City is because they have the same ambitions as me. They want to win the league and titles.
Vivianne Miedema scored on her final Arsenal appearance against Brighton in the Women’s Super League
“Looking to the future, I’ve always said I want to play with the best players in the world and I think City have got that.
“I haven’t played as much football as I would have wished over the past two years, but I think and hope my best years are still to come. I hope I’m going to be able to help the team as much as I can do.
“I am just really excited to be part of the team and for the girls to hopefully help me and get me back to my best. If I get back to my best again then we can achieve really nice things together.
“I do think this is the place to be right now. In the end, it was an easy choice for me.
“I want to challenge myself every day in training but also every single week in the games we play.”
Vivianne Miedema scored her first goal for Arsenal since December 2022 against Liverpool last season
Head coach Gareth Taylor added: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming Viv to City and seeing her flourish over the next three years.
“Our ambition is to compete on the highest stage and for the highest honours, and Viv is aligned to this desire.
“She’s a top talent that I’m excited to work with, as she’s a player I’ve always admired. Viv will be a real asset to the team.”
Miedema also reunites with her Netherlands team-mates Jill Roord – herself coming back from an ACL injury – and Kerstin Casparij.
She will join up with Man City for pre-season training at the end of July.
Miedema joins formidable Man City attack
Sky Sports’ Charlotte Marsh:
“After missing out on the WSL title by goal difference to Chelsea last season, Taylor and his team are trying to make sure that doesn’t happen again this time.
“Manchester City are building quite the potent attacking force. Lauren Hemp and Chloe Kelly are on either wing, Bunny Shaw is through the middle and Miedema can play in the No. 10 role or just off Shaw.
“That’s before we even talk about the return of Jill Roord, the breakthrough of Jess Park and the calming influence of Yui Hasegawa in central midfield.
Rosie and Mollie Kmita rank Vivianne Miedema’s best Women’s Super League goals
“Miedema’s arrival could also prove to be the best business of the window. Firstly, it’s a free transfer.
“And, despite writing her name repeatedly into WSL history in her seven years at Arsenal, the forward is just 27 and, arguably, hitting her peak years.
“She too will have something to prove after 18 months of injury disappointments and setbacks. That should be a stark warning for other WSL teams.
“It is time for Miedema to see if she can shine elsewhere in the WSL – and win more silverware along the way.”
The top stories and transfer rumours from Wednesday’s newspapers…
DAILY MIRROR
Arsenal are among the Premier League suitors linked with a move for Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori, with Bologna understood to be open to Premier League bids.
Lyon have swooped for Nottingham Forest and Belgium midfielder Orel Mangala.
Sunderland wonderkid Chris Rigg has signed a new deal with the club despite reported interest from Premier League sides, including Manchester United.
Neal Maupay claims he will be returning to Everton because Brentford did not take up the option to sign him permanently.
Arsenal are set to complete the permanent signing of David Raya after activating the £27m purchase option that was included as part of his loan move last summer.
THE TIMES
Jude Bellingham will insist his crotch-grabbing gesture against Slovakia was not meant to be offensive after being contacted by UEFA to explain his actions.
Take a look at the stats behind who is the best penalty taker in England’s Euro 2024 squad
Sir Geoffrey Boycott has revealed he has had throat cancer diagnosed for a second time and will undergo surgery to treat the illness.
Tara Moore is back at Wimbledon after it was ruled contaminated meat caused her positive doping test, but she has paid a heavy price in trying to clear her name.
THE ATHLETIC
Burnley have agreed a deal with Santos to sign defender Lucas Pires.
Brighton are interested in adding Rayo Vallecano’s Romania international right-back Andrei Ratiu to the squad for their first season under new head coach Fabian Hurzeler.
Sky Sports’ Elliot Cook and James Savundra discuss how well Fabian Hurzeler will do at Brighton following his first press conference for the club
Manchester City are set to sign Savinho, also known as Savio, on a five-year-contract.
Southampton have reached an agreement in principle with Peterborough for the signing of central defender Ronnie Edwards.
Hibernian midfielder Ewan Henderson has agreed a deal to join Belgium Pro League club Beerschot in a permanent transfer.
Darko Gyabi has re-joined Plymouth on a season-long loan from Leeds.
Manchester City are advancing on a deal to sign England U16 captain Harrison Miles after the expiry of his contract at Southampton.
Mohammed Kudus’ West Ham contract includes a release clause that, as of July 1, will not be available to trigger until next summer.
West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui reveals the key player trait that will improve the team
THE SUN
Marc Guehi needed an injection on a shoulder injury at half-time in England’s win over Slovakia.
DAILY EXPRESS
Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams may be on his way to Liverpool this summer, according to multiple emerging reports.
Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram has signed for Juventus in a deal worth £20m.
Liverpool remain interested in Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon but face having to pay at least £70m.
Manchester United reportedly intend to keep Marcus Rashford at the club this summer amid uncertainty over his future.
DAILY RECORD
Rangers have beaten the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle to the capture of Alfie Hutchison.
Ryan McGowan is set to leave St Johnstone – and is expected to sign for an unnamed Championship club this week.
Albert Sambi Lokonga is set to leave Arsenal, with talks over a move to Sevilla under way.
Josh Walker is set to join Queen of the South as new boss Peter Murphy steps up his Palmerston rebuild.
Jimmy Thelin has revealed that Duk has not travelled with his Aberdeen squad because he has a medical issue.
Rangers youngster Jay Hogarth is to join Queen of the South.
SCOTTISH SUN
Scotland chiefs are backing Steve Clarke – despite their Euro 2024 nightmare.
Celtic will have to fight it out with European clubs to land top talent Andy Rojas after his club revealed they have already received an offer from a Portuguese side.
When does the summer transfer window open and close?
The 2024 summer transfer window in the Premier League and Scottish Premiership is officially open.
The window will close on August 30 at 11pm UK time in England and at 11.30pm in Scotland.
The Premier League and Scottish Premiership brought forward Deadline Day to link up with the other major leagues in Europe. The closing dates were set following discussions with the leagues in England, Germany, Italy, Spain and France.
Fabian Hurzeler said he wants to “achieve big things and challenge the establishment” during his first press conference as Brighton manager.
The 31-year-old, who is the youngest permanent manager in Premier League history, has taken over at the Amex Stadium after guiding St Pauli to promotion into the Bundesliga last season.
The Texas-born German coach spoke about the magnitude of his move to “the best league in the world” and says he is willing to adapt his philosophy during his tenure.
Brighton’s opening league fixture is away to Everton on August 17.
Image: Fabian Hurzeler is the youngest permanent manager in Premier League history
“I’m aware this is a huge job. It’s a big challenge and I think I need a lot of courage and ability so I need to stay humble,” Hurzeler said on Tuesday.
“My targets, I want to discuss them with my players, they need to be convinced of that, they need to feel what we can achieve, that’s the main thing for me.
“I want to achieve big things and I want to challenge the establishment.
“The Premier League is the best league in the world with a lot of good coaches. You need your own philosophy and identity but it’s important to take other elements and adapt.”
Image: The figures behind Fabian Hurzeler and St Pauli’s promotion
Hurzeler has replaced Roberto De Zerbi at Brighton, with the Italian stepping down at the end of last term following two successful seasons in the hotseat before taking charge at French side Marseille.
De Zerbi helped Brighton earn a first-ever European adventure with a sixth-placed finish in 2022-23, when they also reached the FA Cup semi-finals, and he led the Seagulls to the Europe League last 16 last season.
Hurzeler added: “Roberto De Zerbi had a huge impact on the football world with a different style of football. Of course I will take some elements (from him) but I have my own philosophy and you can’t copy anyone.
Brighton chief executive Paul Barber says Fabian Hurzeler’s age of 31 became irrelevant as the interview process progressed.
“I like the football he played, it had a lot of courage with some interesting elements which I will also try and adapt to my philosophy.”
Brighton chairman Tony Bloom said the move to bring Hurzeler to the south-coast club was not a gamble despite his limited experience as a head coach.
Bloom said: “The whole city should be very excited.
“I wouldn’t talk about it as a gamble at all. We look at everything, we put a lot of effort into the appointment of any head coach like other clubs do and we think Fabian is the best fit for the football club. He’s the least risk option we had.”
Why Brighton have appointed Hurzeler
It is probably not the first time you have seen his age mentioned and it definitely will not be the last. That is to be expected considering the seven-year gap between Hurzeler and the next-youngest manager in the league, Ipswich’s Kieran McKenna.
Hurzeler had never been in charge of a first-team side until he took the St Pauli job in December 2022. With only 18 months of management under his belt, he may look like a fledgling in the game, but his coaching exploits began in his early 20s before his retirement at 23.
Read William Bitibiri’s feature on Brighton’s new boss here.
‘One of the hottest German coaches’
Image: Hurzeler guided St Pauli to promotion to the Bundesliga after winning last season’s Bundesliga 2 title
Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg:
“Hurzeler was a former professional footballer and only started his managerial career a few years ago. I would say he’s one of the hottest coaches in German football. Many German clubs are interested in him as well.
“On their way to promotion, St Pauli played sensational football. Hurzeler is a good character and a good guy. He’s a bit like Julian Nagelsmann – they’re both very modern, very confident, very brave. Hurzeler loves to attack, he wants to have the ball. He’s not a defensive coach.
“I can understand why Brighton have kept an eye on Hurzeler. He is very ambitious and for sure, 31 years of age is very young, but he has nothing to lose.
“He has a great connection with the players, he’s a leading figure despite his age, and he was absolutely accepted around the club with the fans.
“For Hurzeler, he has to ask himself if it’s the right step for him right now, but from the way he manages the team and the way he wants to play football, he could be the perfect solution and a very brave solution for Brighton at this stage.”
Defending champions Loughborough Lightning and four-time winners Manchester Thunder meet in Saturday’s Netball Super League, with former Former England international Tamsin Greenway looking ahead to a ‘incredible’ matchup in front of a record 8,000 sell-out crowd in Birmingham.
Watch the final – and the third-place playoff between Severn Stars and London Pulse – for free live on skysports.com and Sky Sports App
What can we expect from the final?
It’s a huge match, a massive one for these two teams who have become huge rivals over the last few years.
It’s going to be a really big one. They’ve both won one and lost one to each other this season and it’s kind of the final everyone was expecting.
Image: Loughborough Lightning are the defending Netball Super League champions
Manchester Thunder go in as favourites.
This was the same matchup last year in the semi-final where they lost out. They’ve recruited well since, they’ve got the best attacking record in the league, the best defensive record and only lost one game all season.
However, that one game they lost this year was against Loughborough Lightning… although you have to go back to March to find that.
A history of Netball Super League champions have been crowned…who will win and be crowned Grand Final champions 2024?
Lightning are reigning champions. They’re consistently good and they always arrive at the big occasions.
They had the the tougher semi-final to come through. They they played London Pulse, who everyone kind of thought would sneak in – they’ve got a young, exciting group and they’d lost them twice in the rounds but Lightning got over the line when it mattered.
It’s going to be a really intriguing 60 minutes battle.
Who are the ones to watch?
What has been great is to see is the growth of some of the players across this year. The two teams are littered with international stars.
You look at the form of Beth Cobden, the Loughborough Lightning wing defence and the form of current England international Imogen Allison for Manchester, they were both named Player of the Match in their semi-finals.
Highlights of the Super League semi-final between Manchester Thunder and Severn Stars
They are crucial to how these teams get about and they’re up against the two best wing attacks in the league this year.
You’ve also got the experience of Nat Metcalf, the current England Roses wing attack for Manchester Thunder.
I think it comes down to who gets on top of each other out of those players.
Stars or Pulse from third-place playoff?
This is a really strange one because London Pulse were absolutely gutted about not making the final last week.
They went in to that semi-final with two wins over Loughborough, thought they get over the line again but they didn’t and were devastated. They’re a really young group, but full of of England players and superstars.
Highlights of the Super League final between Loughborough Lightning against London Pulse
For Severn Stars this is their first ever Finals appearance, so it’s slightly different. They lost but their loss to Manchester Thunder was kind of expected.
I’ve seen this happen before where they get up for the big occasion and want to get that third spot.
Pulse have got to put all of that aside and go for it. On paper, London Pulse should come out on top, but I wouldn’t write off Severn Stars.
Record 8,000 capacity crowd expected
It’s absolutely incredible. The last few years, the uptake in attendances for the big games has been huge.
We’re moving forward into the professional era, going into the big arenas, and this is just another statement as to why that needed to happen.
Eight thousand people in the Resorts Arena at Birmingham, the atmosphere is going to be incredible.
It’s going to be an amazing event… to have that atmosphere and play in front of that crowd just shows where the sport is heading.”
Netball Super League Finals Day
Saturday June 29
2pm: 3rd/4th play-off – Severn Stars vs London Pulse
4.30pm: Final – Manchester Thunder vs Loughborough Lightning
