Kris Boyd reckons Rangers are just one injury away from the verge of total collapse, labeling the current Gers squad as “bang average” after their 2-1 defeat against league leaders Hearts.

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Rohl’s First League Defeat

Despite inconsistent performances, Danny Rohl had managed to bring Rangers back into the league title conversation. Appointed in October following Russell Martin’s horror spell, Rohl navigated his first eight Premiership matches unbeaten, recording six wins and two draws.

Rangers had narrowed the gap on Celtic to just three points and traveled to Tynecastle with a chance to cut the deficit to Hearts.

However, Hearts triumphed 2-1, moving twelve points clear of Rangers, marking Rohl’s first league defeat — a result that could severely dent the Gers’ title ambitions.

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Fixture Challenges Ahead

The loss to Hearts came after a narrow 1-0 win over Hibs at Ibrox, and Rangers face a tough run of fixtures:

• Motherwell at the weekend, currently just above Rangers in the table.

• St Mirren at Ibrox in midweek.

• Celtic Park clash on January 3.

• Back-to-back matches against Aberdeen within five days.

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Lack of Creativity Exposed

Rangers struggled to make an impact against Hearts, with Bojan Miovski’s early goal ruled out by VAR. Their only goal came in the 95th minute through Youssef Chermiti.

Boyd criticized Rangers’ lack of creativity, highlighting the importance of Tottenham loanee Mikey Moore, who has been finding form after a slow start to life at Ibrox.

“For me, Rangers are an injury away from total collapse. There’s nothing there to create opportunities. They look like a bang average team that play for corner kicks, set plays, and long throw-ins,” Boyd said.

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Midfield and Defensive Weaknesses

Boyd pointed out weaknesses in both the midfield and wide positions:

• Back three issues: Max Aarons and Jayden Meghoma rarely get forward, effectively turning it into a back five.

• Midfield trio: Diomande, Raskin, and Barron failed to impose themselves.

“Hearts bullied them in the end. They looked far stronger and that shouldn’t be the case,” Boyd added.

He also criticized Rangers’ summer recruitment, calling it “diabolical”, and warned that the squad lacks the strength to consistently challenge for the league.

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Title Hopes in Jeopardy

Rangers’ unbeaten run under Rohl came to an abrupt halt at Tynecastle. Boyd is skeptical about their chances of catching Hearts:

“Hearts will likely win more games than Rangers for the rest of the season. Rangers may struggle to even match last season’s points total of 75. Everybody tells me this team is worse than last year’s.”

With Rangers 12 points behind Hearts and facing a difficult fixture list, Boyd believes January will be a crucial month for the Light Blues.

Carlos Alcaraz’s former childhood coach believes Rafael Nadal would be a “sensation” as the world No 1’s coach — even though he admits such a move is highly unlikely.

Shock Split From Juan Carlos Ferrero

Reigning world No 1 Carlos Alcaraz sent shockwaves through the tennis world last week after announcing a sudden split from Juan Carlos Ferrero, ending a seven-year partnership.

It marked the end of one of the most successful player-coach relationships of the modern era, a collaboration that helped Alcaraz win six Grand Slam singles titles and rise to the top of the men’s game.

The unexpected decision quickly became one of the biggest tennis stories of the year, with widespread speculation about what led to the separation.

Childhood Coach Speaks Out

Among those reacting was Carlos Santos, Alcaraz’s first-ever coach, who worked with him from the ages of five to 12.

Speaking to Eurosport Spain, Santos shared his thoughts on who could guide Alcaraz next — including the eye-catching idea of Rafael Nadal stepping into a coaching role.

Nadal as Coach? “A Sensation,” Says Santos

While Santos admitted the idea was unrealistic, he explained why Nadal would be an exceptional influence on Alcaraz.

“We have many retired players who could contribute a lot to Carlos, but it’s going to be impossible,” Santos said.

“For example, David Ferrer could be a good coach because of his hard work and dedication.

And we’re not even talking about players like Rafa Nadal, who would be a sensation as Carlos’s coach. Because of his upbringing, his values, his poise, his humility — all of which would be very beneficial for Carlos and those around him.”

However, Santos stressed that any incoming coach would need to understand the unique structure of Alcaraz’s setup.

“It’s not just Carlitos; the team around him is huge. The coach has to accept that and adapt to it.”

Who Takes Charge Next?

For now, Samuel López, who joined Alcaraz’s team at the start of 2025, is expected to act as lead coach heading into the 2026 season.
Still, rumours persist that a permanent head coach could be appointed later.

Focus Turns to the Australian Open

Attention now shifts to how prepared Alcaraz will be for the Australian Open 2026, the first Grand Slam of the season.

The Spaniard will play an exhibition match against Jannik Sinner in South Korea in early January, but — as in previous seasons — he is not expected to play a tour-level event before Melbourne.

The Australian Open begins on January 18, and it could be a defining tournament for Alcaraz.

Career Grand Slam on the Line

Alcaraz is already a two-time champion at the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open, but the Australian Open remains the missing piece.

He has never gone beyond the quarter-finals at Melbourne Park. If he lifts the trophy in 2026, Alcaraz would become just the sixth man in the Open Era to complete the Career Grand Slam.

The Celtic Park rumour mill is running hot — and once again Martin O’Neill’s name is being whispered amid the chaos at Parkhead.

But as things stand on 22 December 2025, the question every Hoops fan is asking isn’t just whether O’Neill should return — it’s whether his name should even be in circulation.

So let’s break it down with the latest facts.

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📉 A Season in Turmoil

Celtic’s current manager Wilfried Nancy has had one of the roughest managerial starts in the club’s history, suffering several defeats early in his tenure before securing a rare 3–1 win against Aberdeen. ESPN.com That rough patch has left fans frustrated and hungry for leadership they trust.

That context is why some supporters still speak fondly of what Martin O’Neill brought during his interim spell — a period of relative stability and wins. Wikipedia

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📣 Off-Field Unrest Is Real

Supporters have not just been grumbling online — there have been actual protests outside Celtic Park, with fans demanding changes at board level amid poor results and decision-making. The Scottish Sun

And that dissent isn’t just aimed at coaches — chairman Peter Lawwell announced he will step down due to abuse and threats directed at him and his family. Evrim Ağacı+1

That’s the backdrop for O’Neill whispers — fans looking for a trusted figure amidst instability.

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📊 What O’Neill Actually Represents

Unlike some social media fantasies, there are real reasons O’Neill’s name keeps coming up:

• He delivered strong results during his interim spell earlier this season. Wikipedia

• He knows the club and commands respect from supporters who long for consistency.

But — and this is critical — Celtic have already moved on with a permanent manager (Nancy) and there is no official indication Celtic are negotiating to bring O’Neill back into the senior manager role as of today.

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📌 So — Nostalgia or Last Resort?

It’s both.

❗ Nostalgia because O’Neill reminds fans of better times and stability.
❗ Last resort because the real issue at Celtic is not just the manager — it’s boardroom instability, recruitment problems, and fan distrust.

Until those deeper issues are addressed, talk of O’Neill returning will keep popping up. But as of 22 Dec 2025, the club remains committed to Wilfried Nancy, and there’s no official move to reappoint O’Neill.

Nuno Set for January Backing as Relegation Fight Looms

Nuno Espírito Santo is expected to be backed in the January transfer window as West Ham battle to pull clear of the Premier League relegation zone.

A 3–0 defeat to Manchester City on Saturday was hardly unexpected given Pep Guardiola’s side — and Erling Haaland’s form — but it marked another setback in a difficult campaign for the Hammers.

While Nuno has steadied the ship since replacing Graham Potter, a relegation dogfight now looks unavoidable. Appointed after the summer window closed, the Portuguese coach is yet to truly shape the squad in his image.

With that in mind, LondonWorld has looked at how West Ham could line up if current January transfer rumours prove accurate.

West Ham XI If January Rumours Are True

Goalkeeper

Christos Mandas

Goalkeeping has been a major headache this season. West Ham spent £20m on former Leicester keeper Mads Hermansen, but his disastrous start saw him quickly dropped.

Alphonse Areola reclaimed the No.1 spot, while the free-agent return of Lukasz Fabianski suggested lingering doubts. According to Hammers News, a swap deal with Lazio could see Christos Mandas arrive at the London Stadium, with Hermansen heading the other way.

Defence

El Hadji Malick Diouf – Jean-Clair Todibo – Charlie Cresswell – Aaron Wan-Bissaka

• Jean-Clair Todibo has shown improvement under Nuno, easing concerns after his £33m price tag.

• Max Kilman, however, continues to struggle and has been linked with a return to Wolves.

• Former Leeds United defender Charlie Cresswell, currently at Toulouse, could replace him. The Athletic reports contact is already underway, with Cresswell keen on a Premier League return to boost his England prospects.

Midfield: One Area of Stability

Defensive / Central Midfield

Mateus Fernandes – Freddie Potts – Soungoutou Magassa

Midfield is arguably West Ham’s strongest department. Fernandes, Magassa and Potts have all shown encouraging development, with Leon Osman recently praising their creativity.

However, uncertainty remains around Lucas Paquetá, who continues to be linked with a move away — and whose recent behaviour may not have helped his cause.

West Ham Linked With Wolves Star Up Front

Attack

Jarrod Bowen – Jørgen Strand Larsen – Adama Traoré

Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman criticised West Ham’s lack of cutting edge in attack, and changes could be coming.

• Niclas Füllkrug is reportedly set for a move to AC Milan, bringing an end to a difficult spell in east London.

• That could pave the way for Jørgen Strand Larsen, with David Ornstein reporting that West Ham could lure the Wolves striker away if they are relegated. The 25-year-old scored 15 Premier League goals last season, making him a potential statement signing.

• Adama Traoré is another name heavily linked. Nuno knows the winger well from their time together at Wolves, and a move from Fulham appears realistic.

A New-Look West Ham Under Nuno?

If even a few of these rumours materialise, West Ham could look very different in the second half of the season. With survival the clear priority, January could prove decisive in determining whether Nuno’s reign gains momentum — or slides further into a relegation scrap.

Leeds United claimed a convincing 4–1 victory over Crystal Palace at Elland Road, continuing their resurgence since switching to a 3-5-2 system.

In-form striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin once again led the line superbly, scoring twice to make it five goals in five games. Ethan Ampadu added a third shortly after the break, before Anton Stach wrapped up the points with a well-taken free-kick late on.

The win moves Leeds six points clear of the relegation zone, further boosting belief that survival is well within reach.

Calvert-Lewin Scores — But Ampadu Steals the Spotlight

Calvert-Lewin will rightly grab headlines for his brace, taking his tally to seven league goals in 15 appearances this season. However, it was Leeds captain Ethan Ampadu who quietly delivered a commanding performance.

Ampadu’s influence went far beyond his goal. His long throws repeatedly unsettled Palace’s defence, directly contributing to Calvert-Lewin’s second strike. While they won’t show up as assists, they were decisive moments that shifted the game in Leeds’ favour.

Ampadu’s Numbers Tell the Story

The Welshman’s all-action display was reflected in the stats:

• 9/12 duels won

• 9 recoveries

• 3 clearances

• 2 fouls won

• 66 minutes played at high intensity

The Yorkshire Evening Post rewarded Ampadu with a 9/10 rating, praising his physical presence and labelling his showing as a “pretty complete” performance.

A Midfield General Farke Can Rely On

Daniel Farke will be hoping Ampadu — and the rest of the side — can maintain this level as Leeds push to avoid relegation.

Operating in the holding midfield role, Ampadu has become central to Leeds’ structure. His ability to protect the defence, dominate physically, and contribute at set-pieces makes him invaluable in tight Premier League battles.

From Early Promise to Leeds Leader

Former Chelsea technical director Michael Emenalo famously signed Ampadu for the Blues as a teenager after being impressed by his performances at Exeter City.

While he struggled to fully live up to early expectations at Chelsea, Ampadu has matured into a reliable, versatile midfielder, also capable of filling in at centre-back when needed.

If he can help guide Leeds to Premier League safety — especially after many tipped them for an immediate return to the Championship — it would rank as a defining achievement in his career.

Leeds United have taken a significant step away from the Premier League relegation zone after an emphatic 4–1 win over Crystal Palace, and Gary Neville has now made an honest admission about the Whites.

The victory continued Leeds’ strong recent form and further strengthened belief that Daniel Farke’s side can survive in the top flight.

Palace Clash Was a Defining Moment for Farke

Saturday night’s match was a huge occasion for Daniel Farke. With his long-term aim being to establish Leeds as a Premier League club, this fixture carried major significance.

A win would move Leeds six points clear of the drop zone, especially after West Ham were comfortably beaten by Manchester City earlier in the day. Leeds didn’t just win — they dominated, overpowering Palace with their physicality and intensity.

All four goals came from set-pieces, allowing Leeds to exploit a Palace side hit by injuries and absences, and highlighting how well Farke’s team played to their strengths.

Neville Rethinks His Relegation Prediction

Gary Neville had predicted Leeds would be relegated at the start of the season, alongside Burnley and Wolves.

So far, his prediction looks accurate for the other two clubs. Wolves remain stuck on two points from 17 games, while Burnley sit on 11 points after a weekend draw.

However, speaking on his podcast, Neville admitted Leeds might prove him wrong.

“I had Burnley, Wolves and Leeds to go down at the start of the season. I think Leeds have a real chance. I’ll be right with Burnley and Wolves — I’m not sure I’ll be right with Leeds. I think they’ve got something.”

Four Players Neville Says Are Key to Survival

While Dominic Calvert-Lewin continues to grab headlines with his goals — and has even been linked with an England recall — Neville believes Leeds’ survival hopes depend on more than just one player.

Alongside Calvert-Lewin, Joe Rodon has been one of Leeds’ most consistent performers this season.

But Neville identified four key players he feels are crucial to Farke’s plans:

• Ethan Ampadu (captain and goalscorer)

• Dominic Calvert-Lewin

• Jayden Bogle

• Gudmundsson

“It’s dependent on keeping two or three players fit. Ampadu and Calvert-Lewin are important for them, two wing-backs, Bogle and Gudmundsson — they’ve got a real hope,” Neville said.

Elland Road Becoming a Fortress Again

Neville also praised the impact of Leeds’ recent revival on their home form.

“Their manager will have gained strength having come out of it. They’re making Elland Road a place where teams won’t want to go — because it’ll be a rough ride.”

That renewed belief at Elland Road has been a key factor in Leeds’ upturn in results.

One Final Game Before Year-End

Leeds have one more fixture to play before the end of the year, as they travel to Wearside to face Sunderland. The hosts will be without several key players due to AFCON, giving Leeds another opportunity to build momentum and further ease relegation fears.

Leeds United produced another huge surprise over the weekend as Crystal Palace visited Elland Road. Heading into the game, the Whites were already three matches unbeaten in the Premier League and showing signs of real momentum.

They had clearly turned a corner after suffering four straight defeats following their win over West Ham, and Saturday’s performance underlined that progress in emphatic fashion.

Leeds Dominate Crystal Palace at Elland Road

Leeds took the lead in the first half when Dominic Calvert-Lewin continued his fine form, scoring for the fifth league game in a row. The striker doubled the advantage just before half-time, finishing off a move sparked by some quick thinking from defender Jaka Bijol.

The second half belonged entirely to Leeds. Goals from Ethan Ampadu and Anton Stach put the game beyond doubt, with Palace only managing a consolation goal from the penalty spot late on.

Jamie Redknapp: Farke Was Close to the Sack

Speaking on Sky Sports after the match, Jamie Redknapp suggested that Daniel Farke’s job was hanging by a thread earlier in the season.

“I think if he would have stayed at half-time until the end of the game at Man City and not got that performance, I don’t think Daniel Farke would still be in a job,” Redknapp said.

“I think it was that precarious for him. But now you see by sticking with the manager and sticking with the plan, the results have come.”

Redknapp highlighted a run of impressive performances that have transformed Leeds’ season:

• The crucial win over Chelsea

• The dramatic comeback against Liverpool after being 2-0 and 3-2 down

• A valuable away point at Brentford

• A dominant display against Crystal Palace

He also praised individual performances, adding:

“I thought they were brilliant today. Ethan Ampadu in midfield, Calvert-Lewin up front, and solid defensively throughout.”

Leeds United’s Form Since the Man City Loss

Since their defeat to Manchester City, Leeds’ numbers tell a clear story of improvement:

Farke’s Tactical Switch Sparks Revival

The turning point appears to have been the City game, which acted as a blueprint for what followed. Farke’s switch to a 3-5-2 formation has unlocked the best from several players, with some producing their strongest performances under the Leeds boss.

But it’s not just about tactics. Confidence is now flowing through the squad. Leeds believe they can compete — and win — against anyone.

They dominated Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea, showed resilience at Anfield, picked up their first away point since September at Brentford, and now sealed a statement win over Crystal Palace.

Survival Now Looks Achievable

If Leeds can maintain this level for the remainder of the season, their push for Premier League survival suddenly looks very realistic. What once appeared like a looming managerial exit has turned into a genuine revival under Daniel Farke.

The tennis world has officially started buzzing — and not just in whispers. When the usually calm and methodical Jannik Sinner takes to the practice courts with a new sense of intensity, fans and rivals alike start paying attention. But what exactly has the 24-year-old Italian doing something that has the rest of the ATP quietly checking their game plans?

A Quiet Explosion Off the Radar

Sinner’s 2025 season was already one of the most compelling in recent memory — even with its ups and downs. After a three-month suspension early in the year, Sinner came back stronger than ever. He claimed six ATP titles, including his first Wimbledon crown and defended his ATP Finals title without dropping a set — the latter a feat unmatched in the modern era.

But what’s got people whispering isn’t just his résumé — it’s the way he’s approaching the game now.

Training Like a New Era Has Begun

Those close to the tour say Sinner has shifted his training focus dramatically — working on his serve aggression, footwork explosiveness, and early point dominance. Rumors — backed by insider chatter — suggest he’s incorporating unconventional drills that prioritize unpredictability and pace, blending power with tactical finesse.

For a player already known for clinical baseline control, this signals something bigger: Sinner isn’t just maintaining — he’s evolving.

Stats That Back Up the Hype

Whether on the court or in the gym, results speak loudest. In 2025, Sinner posted a win percentage near 90%, an outstanding figure for any era and surface. He also ranks near the top of performance metrics — averaging solid first-serve percentages, keeping double faults low, and converting an impressive nearly 50% of break points.

These numbers aren’t just good — they’re game-changing in a season where he finished just 550 points behind Carlos Alcaraz in the ATP rankings, ending the year at world No. 2.

Rivals Are Taking Notice

Across the tour, players aren’t just talking about Sinner’s stats — they’re talking about how he’s hitting the ball, how his foot speed has sharpened, and how he’s becoming increasingly comfortable dictating points early.

One top-10 rival recently remarked (anonymously), “He looks less like someone reacting to points and more like someone deciding how they’re won before they start.”

That’s a shift — and one that sends ripples through lineups when the season resumes.

Not Just Tennis: A Full Life Off Court

It’s not just what he’s doing on the training court. Off the ATP circuit, Sinner has been in the headlines too — recently confirming a relationship with model Laila Hasanovic during his Vienna Open victory celebration. People.com Fans point to this stability off court as another factor in his renewed focus and confidence.

What This Means for 2026

If this training phase is any indicator, the 2026 season could be even more electric for the Italian star. The touring elite might be quietly panicking now — but come the first Grand Slam of the year, they’ll see it in the scorelines.

Because when Jannik Sinner brings a new weapon to his game, the tennis world tends to notice.

West Ham United have made their stance crystal clear: Jarrod Bowen is not for sale in January — at any price.

Club owner David Sullivan has once again shut down any possibility of Bowen leaving next month, according to sources. Interest in the Hammers captain has resurfaced ahead of the January window, but Sullivan has now reportedly branded the forward as “untouchable.”

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Bowen’s Importance Cannot Be Replaced

Bowen has been West Ham’s standout attacker once again this season, and internally the club recognise just how vital he is to their survival hopes.

There is a strong belief within the club that selling Bowen mid-season would be catastrophic. In fact, some fear it would be the equivalent of signing their own Championship relegation papers.

Even with Bowen firing, West Ham sit third from bottom at Christmas, five points from safety. The second half of the season will likely depend on more moments of Bowen brilliance to keep the club in the Premier League.

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Tottenham Interest Keeps Returning

While Bowen has kept quiet publicly, both he and his representatives are well aware of growing interest — particularly from Tottenham.

Sources reveal Spurs have enquired about Bowen in each of the last four transfer windows, underlining just how highly he is rated in north London.

Liverpool and Newcastle are also long-term admirers and would be willing to move if there was ever a realistic chance of landing the left-footer. For now, that chance simply does not exist.

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January Exit Expected for Niclas Füllkrug

While Bowen is staying put, one West Ham player does look set to leave.

Striker Niclas Füllkrug is expected to join AC Milan on an initial six-month loan, which includes an option to buy. Milan will cover the German’s full wages during the loan period.

Manchester City are lining up a huge move for Leeds United starlet Harry Gray, with Elland Road braced for serious interest.

Gray only signed a new contract earlier this season in an attempt to cool transfer talk, but that hasn’t stopped Europe’s elite from circling. Widely viewed as the brightest prospect at Thorp Arch, the teenage forward has already attracted attention from Tottenham — and now City have joined the race.

The younger brother of Archie Gray, Harry is a lifelong Leeds fan and has already made his first-team debut. While he’s yet to feature in the Premier League, his potential is obvious to everyone watching.

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Man City Planning a “Massive Deal”

According to Alan Nixon (via Patreon, 21 December), Manchester City are preparing what’s been described as a “massive” move for Gray.

The 17-year-old is seen as a future starter at Leeds, which could push his valuation to around £40 million. City have reportedly tracked him for some time and now expect to make a formal move, with a potential swap deal also being discussed.

Nixon even name-dropped Kalvin Phillips as a possible part of negotiations, but his current wages at the Etihad are believed to be a major stumbling block. While a return to Elland Road would be welcomed by fans, it looks unlikely as part of any deal for Gray.

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International Tug-of-War Adds to the Hype

Gray isn’t just attracting club interest. He’s also at the centre of a battle between England and Scotland over his international future — another sign of just how highly rated he is.

That same tug-of-war now looks set to play out at club level as well, with Leeds under increasing pressure to fend off interest from the very top.

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Leeds Must Hold Firm

On paper, £40m for a player who has only featured once under Daniel Farke sounds tempting. That kind of money could be spread across the squad and strengthen Leeds in January.

But talents like Harry Gray don’t come around often.

If his development goes to plan, he could easily be worth double that figure in a few years. Leeds already have the foundations of their future attack in place — letting Gray go now could prove a huge regret.

For Leeds, this should be simple: do not bow to City. Not this season, not yet.