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Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Dominic Calvert-Lewin will make his return from injury when Everton host Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup on Sunday night.

The striker has missed the Toffees’ last two fixtures across all competitions with a hamstring problem first sustained before losing to West Ham United on New Years’ Day.

Calvert-Lewin played 79 minutes in the defeat before sitting out his side’s FA Cup win over Rotherham United and visit to Wolverhampton Wanderers, but is now in line to start this weekend.

Calvert-Lewin is without a goal in his last six appearances after failing to find the back of the net since recording his 14th of the season in a 1-1 draw with Burnley in early December, having previously only gone one match at a time without scoring at worst.

Ancelotti will have a heavily depleted squad to select from when Everton host Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday night, with the Italian confirming a raft of injuries for the FA Cup tie.

“We have Dominic available for the game,” said Ancelotti. “Unfortunately, we have some players out like [Jean-Philippe] Gbamin, Allan, [Fabian] Delph, [Lucas] Digne, [Alex] Iwobi and [Niels] Nkounkou.

“Iwobi and Digne will be unavailable for only this game – they will be available for the game against Leicester [on Wednesday]. The other players are in good condition and are ready to play this game and to compete.”

Ancelotti handed Cenk Tosun a start in the FA Cup at home to Rotherham United before favouring attacking midfielders James Rodriguez and Gylfi Sigurdsson as false nines for the 2-1 win at Wolves.

Ancelotti confirming that Calvert-Lewin will make his return to action against Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup will come as a bitter pill for Tosun, who would have hoped to be given another chance to potentially save his Goodison Park career.

Tosun continues to be linked with a potential move away from Merseyside in the January transfer window, with Fanatik claiming the Turkey international is Sam Allardyce’s top target at West Bromwich Albion after signing him for £27m in 2018 while in charge of Everton.

Allardyce described Tosun as the “best in Europe” at the time for the price paid to Besiktas, and saw the 29-year-old score five of his 11 career Everton goals before the one-game England boss was fired at the end of the 2017/18 season.

Ancelotti has only overseen one of Tosun’s goals in royal blue, coming in the FA Cup third round win over Rotherham during what was only his first start and seventh appearance of the campaign following his return from cruciate ligament surgery.

Tosun will no doubt be gutted to find that the bench will likely be his home, at first, on Sunday, having also been left an unused substitute on six occasions to date.

AND in other news, Everton are demanding no less than £9m to sell a Carlo Ancelotti outcast this month.

Former Scotland international Alan Hutton has criticised Celtic’s appointment of Dominic McKay to the club’s chief executive position as we approach the imminent departure of Peter Lawwell.

Hutton speaks out

The Bhoys announced that the long-serving board member will step down from the prominent position in the summer after 17 years of service – after widespread scrutiny from the Green Brigade regarding his running of the club. Of course, there has since been even more criticism due to the fact that Lawwell was involved in selecting his own replacement (via Glasgow Live).

McKay’s arrival is the first of several changes that are reportedly due to take place at the end of the 2020/21 campaign, in what has been a season to forget for everyone connected to the club.

The new CEO will come in after announcing he would be leaving his position at Scottish Rugby to take the role – he has a season ticket at Parkhead with the Glasgow club close to his heart.

Speaking to Football Insider, Hutton responded to McKay’s approval into the position and responded when he was asked if Celtic should have opted for an unbiased personality – as opposed to a Hoops fan.

“You’ve literally hit the nail on the head with that,” he said.

“I mean, I don’t think it’s always a great thing for a supporter or a long-term ticket holder to be in charge because sometimes you can’t see what’s best for the club, you just see it as a fan, what you think is best.

“So personally, I would rather see someone come in with fresh thinking, have new ideas, a different plan moving forward.

“The past doesn’t matter because it’s all about the future so just a totally different way of thinking.

“That is not to say that it won’t work out for them, he’s obviously a very intelligent man, and he knows his job but that being said, sometimes it’s just nice to have totally new ideas and a different way of looking at things.”

Transfer Tavern Verdict

When you look at this narrative relating to fresh minds with no affiliation, it feels like McKay is already in a virtually impossible position.

Look at what has been taking place at other clubs, particularly Manchester United. The Glazer family have been lambasted by fans perhaps more than any other owners in world football because they aren’t connected to the heart and soul of the club, and now McKay’s appointment is criticised for being exactly that.

That being said, there is every chance that McKay can hit the ground running and turns things around for the Hoops, but Hutton clearly fears this is one final big blunder from Lawwell.

In other news, Celtic’s Olivier Ntcham backed by unlikely ally following Andre Villas-Boas resignation.

Glasgow Rangers have been dealt a devastating injury blow ahead of their Scottish Premiership clash with Dundee United.

What’s the word?

Steven Gerrard’s side take on the Tangerines at Ibrox Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

However, Rangers will be without their influential talisman James Tavernier after it was revealed the right-back had suffered a knee injury in Thursday’s Europa League win over Royal Antwerp.

Tavernier limped out of the seven-goal thriller with Antwerp in midweek, and it has now emerged he will have to wait for a scan to determine the full extent of the problem.

The 29-year-old attacking full-back has been an integral part of Gerrard’s side this season but is now facing a spell on the sidelines with his return currently unknown.

“We will see what the scan shows to see what he’s going to miss (Tavernier), he’s obviously going to miss the next few games,” Gerrard said in his pre-match press conference on Friday.

“Leon Balogun played well in that position. Ryan Jack can also do a job, so we do have options if required at right-back.

“We are showing the strength & depth of the squad, I would love to play Jack every minute, but I have to protect & look after him, so he is ready and fresh going into the weekend.”

Colossal setback for Steven Gerrard

Whilst Gerrard tried to hide his disappointment, there’s no glossing over the fact that this will be a colossal setback for the 54-time Scottish champions.

Nathan Patterson is the only other out and out right-back but has been removed from the first team as he has been forced to self-isolate after breaching coronavirus protocols.

The 19-year-old, who signed a new long-term contract at the club earlier this season, now faces an uncertain future at Ibrox amid an ongoing investigation by the Scottish FA.

Tavernier was voted the Scottish Premiership Player of the Month for September, while a return of 11 goals in 29 top-flight appearances this season sees him top the goal-scoring charts out of the entire Rangers squad, ahead of the likes of Alfredo Morelos and Kemar Roofe.

By the numbers, he ranks fifth for shots taken (1.9 per 90), second for key passes (2) and third for dribbles completed (1.3), which shows he will be incredibly difficult to replace.

For context, neither Patterson nor Balogun have completed more than 0.5 shots per game in the Premiership this season, via WhoScored, suggesting that Tavernier is almost a different animal in attack altogether.

And in addition to that, he currently ranks as WhoScored’s top player, both at Ibrox and in the entire SPFL, with an average rating of 7.76 – only reinforcing the idea that the right-back is arguably Gers’ most vital cog.

Therefore, Gerrard will be hard-pressed to find a contributor on both sides of the ball who can better his terrific form from this term and thus, this latest development comes as a crushing and devastating blow.

AND in other news, Balogun and Wright start, Kent rested: Rangers Predicted XI vs Dundee…

Wolves are very nearly back in top gear. They have lost just one of their last seven league outings and slight fears of relegation that were had are beginning to be wiped away.

Nuno Santo has taken his side back to their infamous three-man defence, and it’s paying off.

On the chalkboard

Despite the renewed positivity surrounding Molineux, their 1-1 draw with relegation candidates Newcastle last weekend was perhaps rather disappointing.

We got to watch a feast of dribbling from Adama Traore and Allan Saint-Maximin, and in the process, Leander Dendoncker was caught out time and time again.

The attacking duo are a joy to watch for their respective sides and they caused carnage on Saturday evening.

Traore gave Emil Krafth a torrid time down Newcastle’s right-hand side with the Spaniard completing as many as 14 dribbles; the winger’s highest successful tally this season.

Though, down Wolves’ right side, Dendoncker was also given a frightening time by Saint-Maximin. The Belgian can play in a multitude of positions but when selected in defence on Saturday, he let his team down.

The Frenchman gave Dendoncker a horrible time, providing four key passes and also managing four successful dribbles. In the words of Birmingham Live reporter Alex Dicken, he was “skinned” by the dazzling Saint-Maximin on a frequent basis.

Drop him

With that in mind, Nuno should be worried about fielding the Belgium international in that position on Tuesday evening.

If he struggled with Newcastle’s tricky winger at the weekend, just imagine how difficult he’ll find life against Manchester City.

It remains to be seen who starts in Pep Guardiola’s attack but with Raheem Sterling rested against West Ham, he is more than likely to feature on the left-hand side of City’s forward line.

The Englishman has completed 2.4 dribbles per game this term so Dendoncker could struggle yet again. It would be a surprising decision for Nuno to take though, especially given previous praise for the £90k-per-week Belgian.

Earlier this season, the 25-year-old became a combative force in the middle of the park. Dave Edwards deemed him undroppable, suggesting that it was “Dendoncker and one other” that Nuno would have to pick in his midfield.

Yet, now playing further back in defence, he’s being defeated. Dendoncker is usually so reliable but after the stifling night he was given by Saint-Maximin, trusting him against Sterling would be risky business.

AND in other news, Better than Jose: Wolves could rue missing £18m target once dubbed “out of this world”…

With Neil Lennon no longer Celtic manager, there are a number of subplots at play when it comes to the future at Parkhead.

Of course, Peter Lawwell is set to retire in the summer but Lennon’s departure will now determine what happens in the transfer window.

If you believe reports, Liam Shaw has agreed on a pre-contract deal with the Hoops and thus will arrive on a free transfer when the market opens in the summer. It’s not known whether Lennon leaving will have an impact on the deal, but one thing we do know for certain is that conversations have taken place.

Sheffield Wednesday owner Dejphon Chansiri commented earlier this week: “I thought he was going to go to Celtic – I believe that – because of the agent talking to Celtic.”

At the moment, the deal seems as good as done; and judging by his latest performance, that should be music to the ears of Nick Hammond.

If Celtic’s chief recruiter was watching him in action this week then he must have been delighted with his display.

The 19-year-old is capable of playing at centre-back and further forward in midfield and it was in that latter role that he flourished for the Owls, running the show from the middle of the park.

Sheffield Wednesday suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat at the hands of Rotherham but, if there were any positives, it was the performance of Celtic-bound Shaw.

He was described as Wednesday’s ‘star man’ after the game, earning the following review from reporter Dom Howson: “Confident in possession as usual on his return to the side following a two-match suspension. Showed bags of energy and forced Johansson into a good stop.”

[snack-amp-story url=”https://www.footballfancast.com/web-stories/latest-celtic-manager-hunt-stories-wagner-marsch-martinez-lennon-news” title=”The last stories on Celtic’s hunt for a new manager!”]

Indeed, it was clear to see why he was talked about so highly. During the course of the match, the teenager provided three key passes, two of which led to clear-cut opportunities to score. That number happened to be the highest of any Wednesday player in midweek.

Shaw also recorded four successful dribbles, the second-highest tally of anyone to take the field at Hillsborough. It was a dynamic performance, one where the midfielder also stood out from a defensive point of view.

No player won more than his seven ground duels, while he also prevailed in three aerial duels from four contested.

Shaw has previously been described as a player who can play “everywhere” by former Owls boss Garry Monk, so he clearly has plenty to offer.

If Celtic can conclude a deal, this looks like a player who may thrive at Parkhead. He has numerous qualities, all of which should have Hammond foaming at the mouth.

AND in other news, 8 passes all game: Celtic must wield the axe on £4.5m flop who is “not bothered”…

Manchester United head to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon for a Manchester derby that looks key to their fleeting title hopes.

The Red Devils can reduce the gap between themselves and current leaders Manchester City to 11 points, and in the process halt their neighbours’ march to the title.

They were frustrated last time out, being held by Crystal Palace.

How different could their line-up look from the stalemate at Selhurst Park?

There could be as many as three changes for Sunday’s match, the majority of them enforced.

Dean Henderson is set to continue in goal in the absence of David De Gea – the Spaniard travelling back to Spain for the birth of his child.

One alteration will take place in front of him. Victor Lindelof has fully recovered from his back problem so will be reintroduced into the starting lineup in place of Eric Bailly. The £21.6m-rated Swede will join Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw in defence.

Having played the full 90 minutes at Selhurst Park, it appears unlikely that 32-year-old Nemanja Matic will start consecutive games within a couple of days. Scott McTominay, who was on the bench against the Eagles, is likely to be restored as United go with what appears to be their strongest midfield against the champions-elect.

Meanwhile, Solskjaer has a slight dilemma in attack, with Edinson Cavani ruled out. This could see the United boss move Mason Greenwood into the No. 9 role, with Daniel James coming into the starting line-up on the flank.

Elsewhere, Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes are both almost guaranteed to start the game.

AND in more news, make sure you read why we think it’s time for Amad Diallo to make his full Red Devils debut against Manchester City…

Whilst Harry Kane will steal the headlines after his impressive brace for Tottenham in the 2-0 win against Dinamo Zagreb on Thursday night, the performance of Serge Aurier at right-back should not be overlooked, with the Ivorian giving Jose Mourinho a big decision to make ahead of the North London derby at the weekend.

The former PSG man didn’t feature in Spurs’ recent league wins against Fulham and Crystal Palace but made his return to the side against the Croatian league leaders and, after an excellent performance, Mourinho may well be tempted to start him at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

As per SofaScore, the 28-year-old earned an impressive 8.4 rating for his performance, with only Kane earning higher of any player who featured in the game.

During the 90 minutes, Aurier made three clearances, four tackles and four interceptions, which is more impressive than the numbers he has posted in the Premier League this season, where he averages 2.8 tackles, 0.9 interceptions and 2.4 clearances.

Whilst the right-back is usually more renowned for his ability going forward than in defence, he was superb defensively, as he won all five of his aerial duels and seven of his nine ground duels, which emphasises that he nearly always had the better of the Dinamo attackers.

In fact, Dinamo’s Mislav Orsic, who has been one of their better performers this season, earned the lowest rating of any player on the pitch with 5.9/10, as he failed to complete a single dribble and lost every single one of the 12 duels in which he was involved during the game.

This demonstrates that Aurier, who reportedly earns £70k per week at Spurs, was almost unbeatable down the right-hand side, and he also played a big part in Spurs’ second goal as his volleyed cross wasn’t cleared, allowing Kane to fire home.

Therefore, after a superb display, Mourinho may well be tempted to keep faith in Aurier for the game against Arsenal at the weekend, despite the recent impressive form of Matt Doherty.

And, in other news… Mourinho masterclass: Jose has revitalised Spurs ace with one simple tactical change

Manchester United could be set to invest a considerable fee this summer – but not in their playing squad.

According to The Mirror, the Red Devils are due to open negotiations with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer concerning a new deal at Old Trafford.

The report suggests that Ed Woodward is set to offer the Norwegian an extension to his current deal, with his contract set to expire next summer, as well as a pay rise to approximately £9m per year.

It is money that would be better spent elsewhere, with the manager’s contract not ranking as high in the priority list.

According to further reports, the Red Devils are planning a summer splurge, with a centre-back, wideman and striker all thought to be on the shortlist, meaning the club will need to have considerable funds available.

The transfer funds then will surely set to be decreased should Solskjaer commit to a new deal, limiting the club’s options in the market following the negative impact on the club’s finances during the pandemic.

This is even before analysing the former Cardiff City boss’ impact at Old Trafford.

Brought in to steady the ship following the tumultuous reign of Jose Mourinho, he has led the club to a sixth and a third-place finish, whilst the Red Devils currently sit second.

Each season, they have not looked remotely like lifting the Premier League title – finishing 32 and 33 points off of top spot, whilst they are now 14 behind leaders Manchester City.

Of course, the Red Devils have improved their points tally each season, and look likely to do so again but only one top-four finish, surely the minimum of the club’s expectations, is not too much of an achievement.

Solskjaer has also not managed to win a trophy of any kind in his time at Old Trafford either, something that both of his two predecessors; Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho all did. A manager’s trophy cabinet is usually an indicator of his success, especially at a club like Manchester United.

Whilst he has done an acceptable job, Solskjaer should certainly not be rewarded for mediocrity, and talks should be put on hold for now.

AND in more news, read about Harry Maguire’s crucial display in Sunday’s win against West Ham…

According to a report by El Gol Digital, Tottenham summer signing Sergio Reguilon wishes to return to Spain after falling into an ‘unstable project’ in north London, coming as a potential blow for manager Jose Mourinho and the Lilywhites.

Tottenham dealt potential Reguilon blow

Reguilon has arguably been impressive since joining from Real Madrid in 2020, with a report from Football Insider at the back end of last year describing him as ‘phenomenal’ in training.

He has also been a regular for Mourinho since signing at Hotspur Way, starting 16 Premier League matches whilst grabbing three assists in that time (WhoScored). He is in the top four Spurs performers for both tackles and interceptions per game over the course of the season (WhoScored).

Providing an update on Reguilon’s future amid the presence of a buy-back Real Madrid clause, El Gol Digital have provided a potentially alarming claim.

Transfer Tavern take

The Spanish outlet stated that he now wishes to return to Spain, preferably with his former club Sevilla, as the 24-year-old emerges as a top target for Los Palanganas at left-back.

A potential blow in Spurs’ wishes to keep Reguilon, it is stated by El Gol Digital that he wants to go back to his homeland amid this interest, but only time will tell what comes of the report.

One of only two left-back options, it’s safe to say that Mourinho will not want to lose the Spaniard after a solid debut season.

In other news: Tottenham have identified a potentially ‘perfect’ heir to Mourinho, find out more here.

Some Liverpool fans have been reacting to a transfer rumour linking them with a move for Wilfred Singo, with positivity the order of the day.

Jurgen Klopp may well be on the lookout for a new centre-back this summer, following a disaster of a season in that area.

Liverpool have had to make do without Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez since the autumn, while Joel Matip also joins them in being out for the rest of the campaign.

With both Gomez and Matip injury-prone figures and Ozan Kabak currently only on loan, it may be that another defender is needed to provide more quality and depth.

[freshpress-quiz id=“306736”]

Singo is someone who has been linked with a move to Anfield, having impressed for Serie A side Torino this season, making 21 appearances in the competition. According to Tuttosport, via The Liverpool Echo (07:06), Liverpool have tabled a £17million bid, but it has been rejected.

The 20-year-old Ivorian has actually been predominantly used on the right wing and at right-back, but his versatility means he has also played in central defence.

Liverpool fans talk up Singo move

These Liverpool fans took to Twitter to provide their thoughts on a possible move for Singo, with many seeing him as an exciting addition.

“Singo is destined to be a superstar”

Credit: @Sabista_

“I’ve watched this kid play 7 times…if I was LFC I’d pay the said price . He’d be a bargain soon enough”

Credit: @Cobby_Ing_Jr

“If Paolo Maldini thinks he is a good player that’s good enough for me”

Credit: @shangri_la121

“This boy has pace, strength and good technique. He plays RB well already, can play CB too. I REALLY, REALLY hope this link is legit.”

Credit: @GegenPool

“Quality player !!!”

Credit: @nomad56060053

“He’s very solid defensively, pacy and is a decent dribbler But he has been getting injured a lot lately”

Credit: @LFCsSupporter

In other news, some Liverpool fans have been lauding an injury update on one Reds star. Read all about it here.