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Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson wants “better protection” for Paul Mullin from referees after seeing his star striker “pushed into the hoardings”.

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Frontman injured over the summerHas hit three goals this seasonManager eager to avoid more setbacksWHAT HAPPENED?

Prolific frontman Mullin was also on the receiving end of a full-blooded challenge in a 1-1 draw at Bradford that his manager believes was a “stonewall” penalty. Those spot-kick shouts were waved away, while no action was taken after seeing the 28-year-old shoved into the advertising boards at Valley Parade.

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Mullin is still working his way back to full match sharpness after suffering a punctured lung in pre-season during a supposedly friendly clash with Manchester United in the United States. Wrexham are understandably keen to ensure that their most potent attacking weapon is available as often as possible.

WHAT THEY SAID

Parkinson told reporters when asked about some of the rough treatment handed out to Mullin against Bradford – including the penalty calls which could have changed the final outcome: “How the ref hasn’t given that is incredible. We could all see that the lad’s slid in, caught him and pulled him down. It’s an absolute stonewall penalty. It’s 100 per cent a penalty but you’re also crying out for better protection in open play for Mulls. I thought he got pushed into the hoardings in the second half but it is a physical game. That’s how we like it but I think when the ref looks back at it, he’ll see that it was a clear pen.”

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Mullin scored Wrexham’s goal against Bradford, taking him to three for the season, and – after netting 47 across all competitions in a record-breaking promotion-winning campaign last term – is up to 82 in total through 105 appearances after being taken to SToK Racecourse by Dragons co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

Gabriel Jesus has joined Brazil national team for World Cup qualifiers despite carrying a hamstring injury.

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Jesus joins national team despite hamstring injuryGot injured against Sevilla a few weeks agoBrazil to face Colombia and Argentina in qualifiersGetty ImagesWHAT HAPPENED?

Despite being sidelined due to a hamstring injury in the last couple of weeks, Jesus travelled to Brazil for international duty, according to .

The Brazilian star picked up a hamstring injuryduring Arsenal's away Champions League fixture against Sevilla on October 24. Later it was reported that the striker will take at least three to four weeks to completely recover before returning on the pitch.

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The 26-year-old will reportedly be assessed by the medical team of Brazil and they will take the final call on whether to play him in their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

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Before he picked up a hamstring injury last month, the striker was troubled with a knee problem at the beginning of the season that forced him to remain out of action for the first three matches of the ongoing season.

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WHAT NEXT FOR BRAZIL?

The Selecao are scheduled to face Colombia first on November 17 before taking on world champions Argentina five days later.

Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka, who is of England-Nigerian heritage, celebrated the Super Eagles' semi-final victory over South Africa on Wednesday.

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Saka celebrates Nigeria AFCON winArsenal star of England-Nigerian heritageSuper Eagles to face Ivory Coast in finalWHAT HAPPENED?

Nigeria made it to their first Africa Cup of Nations final in 11 years in dramatic fashion. A William Troost-Ekong penalty was cancelled out in the last minute by Teboho Kokoena's spot-kick, with the help of some VAR drama. The Super Eagles eventually prevailed in a shoot-out, with Kelechi Iheanacho scoring the winning penalty, a strike Saka uploaded to his Instagram story.

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The Gunners winger posted the video alongside the words "Super Eagles!" to celebrate Nigeria's win. Both of Saka's parents, Adenike and Yomi, are from the West African country.

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Saka was undecided on his international allegiance in his breakthrough season with Arsenal, saying the decision would be "tough" back in July 2020. But he got his first call-up under Gareth Southgate in October of that year and was handed a surprise starring role in England's Euro 2020 run. Since then the 23-year-old has made the Three Lions spot his own, racking up 11 goals in 32 senior appearances and becoming one of the first names on Southgate's teamsheet, if fit.

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GettyWHAT NEXT FOR SAKA?

While an international team close to his heart gets closer to a first trophy since 2013, Saka's contributions helped Arsenal stake their claim as Premier League title challengers this term. He scored in the Gunners' 3-1 victory over Liverpool on Sunday as those two sides look to rival the dominant force that is Manchester City.

Ella Toone's late strike keeps Sarina Wiegman's side just about alive in the competition, but it's not in their hands ahead of a trip to Scotland

Playing 'Survivor' by Destiny's Child at half time was perhaps an optimistic choice by the person in charge of the music at Wembley Stadium on Friday night, as by that point England's UEFA Women's Nations League hopes seemed dead and gone. Two first half goals from Lineth Beerensteyn put the Netherlands in firm control – but that the match eventually ended in a 3-2 win for the hosts, which just about keeps their chances in this competition alive, showed that the DJ's belief was far from misplaced.

England were nowhere near their ruthless selves on the night. Errors were costly in the first half, both Mary Earps and Jess Carter failing to cover themselves in glory as Lineth Beerensteyn netted twice to leave the Lionesses with it all to do. However, Georgia Stanway kickstarted an incredible second half comeback, scoring and assisting as England pulled it back to 2-2 on the hour with two goals in two minutes.

Had Sarina Wiegman's side lost, they would've been eliminated from the Nations League altogether and the chances of Great Britain being able to send a women's football team to next summer's Olympics would've been over, too. But up popped Ella Toone in stoppage time to score a late winner and leave England in contention by the barest of margins. Head-to-head records, goal difference and goals scored are all likely to all come into play in the permutations when they finish their Nations League group stage campaign in Scotland on Tuesday.

GOAL rates England's players from Wembley Stadium…

Getty ImagesGoalkeeper & Defence

Mary Earps (4/10):

Should've saved the second goal. Didn't have much to do after that.

Lucy Bronze (5/10):

Linked up with the attack well but lost the ball too much.

Jess Carter (3/10):

Got tangled up for the Netherlands' opener and then pulled out of a challenge in the build-up to their second. Subbed off just after the hour.

Alex Greenwood (5/10):

Got turned inside out a little too easily for Beerensteyn's second.

Niamh Charles (5/10):

Had a problem in dealing with Pelova throughout the first half. Improved in the second.

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Keira Walsh (6/10):

Failed to take control of the game in the first half. Improved in the second.

Georgia Stanway (7/10):

Scored the goal that kickstarted England's comeback and then teed up Hemp to level the scores.

Fran Kirby (5/10):

Another player who couldn't get on the ball to make an impact.

Getty ImagesAttack

Chloe Kelly (5/10):

Showed flashes on the attack but nothing too significant before taken off at half time.

Lauren Hemp (7/10):

Tested Van Domselaar early on after a nice run in behind and got a goal her effort deserved when she equalised with a lovely, well-placed strike.

Lauren James (6/10):

Lively at times, picking up the ball and driving at the Dutch defence when she could. Lovely cross for Stanway's goal.

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Getty ImagesSubs & Manager

Beth Mead (6/10):

Came on at half time for her first England appearance since last November. Added conviction to the attack.

Esme Morgan (5/10):

Introduced just past the hour in a surprising switch up in the heart of defence. Didn't have much to do.

Alessia Russo (5/10):

Had just over 20 minutes to make an impact. Had a couple of bright moments.

Ella Toone (6/10):

Came on at the same time as Russo and scored the goal that keeps England alive in the Nations League.

Rachel Daly (N/A):

Only on for the final few minutes.

Sarina Wiegman (6/10):

Needing to win, she picked an exciting, attacking line-up but the midfield couldn't get control of the game and defensive errors crept in again. Didn't do much wrong on the night but England's precarious situation comes from problems that have built up over the past year or so, too.

The Lionel Messi roadshow at Inter Miami is back for 2024, with MLS explaining how they settled on fixture lottery winners for the upcoming campaign.

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Everyone desperate to play host to HeronsInternational commitments taken into accountNew season gets underway on February 21GettyWHAT HAPPENED?

The Herons have become the biggest draw in American soccer, with eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi ensuring that sell-out crowds pack into venues across the United States. Inter Miami season tickets sold out within a matter of minutes of going on sale.

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Their Eastern Conference rivals will get a visit from Messi and Co in 2024, but only three Western Conference teams could realistically host Tata Martino’s side. All 14 of the teams in that picture expressed interest in welcoming the all-time great to their backyard.

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That list was quickly whittled down to six – with the Colorado Rapids, Vancouver Whitecaps and Real Salt Lake having never played Inter Miami since their MLS bow in 2020. Three others – the LA Galaxy, Minnesota United and Sporting Kansas City – have never hosted the Herons.

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TELL ME MORE

Colorado, RSL and Minnesota have been snubbed, with Brad Pursel – MLS’ SVP of game schedule management – telling : “Certainly we've had other great players come in the league. But there's only one Leo Messi.” He said that decisions on those missing out on the Messi show were down to “thinking of what would make sense in 2024, and then what would make sense in 2025.”

Pep Guardiola called Cole Palmer a "lovely lad" and says he never had doubts about his quality, despite letting him leave Manchester City for Chelsea.

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Palmer left City for Chelsea in £42.5m dealForward impressing for the BluesGuardiola knew "star" would shineGetty ImagesWHAT HAPPENED?

The 21-year-old swapped City for the Blues last summer for £42.5 million ($53.4m) after finding his game time at the Etihad extremely limited. The England international has arguably been Chelsea's best player this season, scoring 12 goals and bagging nine assists in all competitions. Ahead of the west London outfit taking on the defending Premier League champions on Saturday, manager Guardiola has spoken glowingly about his former charge.

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The Spaniard told reporters on Friday: "If he [Palmer] plays regularly, yes [I knew he would perform well]. I didn't have any doubts about his quality. The way he's playing is a star player. He wanted the minutes, it was a question of time to show his immense quality.

"Cole Palmer is an exceptional player and a lovely lad and of course I wish him well at Chelsea."

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Palmer played just 41 times for City after making his first-team debut in September 2020. Just six of those were starts so when Chelsea came along offering a seven-year contract and the chance of regular game time, he leapt at the opportunity. And the move has worked out for all parties.

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WHAT NEXT?

After the clash between second-placed City and mid-table Chelsea at the Etihad on Saturday evening, the Blues take on Liverpool in the final of the Carabao Cup on February 25 whereas City host Brentford in the Premier League on Tuesday.

Kim Kardashian saw her son Saint live “the absolute dream” by leading Inter Miami out against the LA Galaxy alongside Lionel Messi.

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Famous faces in attendance for MLS fixtureKardashian's sons are big soccer fansTook on the role of mascot for thrilling clashWHAT HAPPENED?

The Herons were in California for their latest MLS fixture. Unsurprisingly, in the land of Hollywood, there were a number of superstar guests at Dignity Health Sports Park. Tennis icon Novak Djokovic was among those in attendance, along with USWNT stars Christen Press and Tobin Heath.

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Los Angeles-based Kardashian also took another opportunity to watch eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi in action, having previously taken her sons to a game in Miami and to games involving other legendary performers – such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe – around the world.

DID YOU KNOW?

Kardashian’s son Saint was given a starring role for Inter Miami’s latest outing, as he got the chance to walk onto the field hand in hand with Argentine superstar Messi. Proud mother Kardashian posted on social media: “Saint walking Messi out on the field tonight at the La Galaxy vs Inter Miami game!!! He is living the absolute dream!”

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WATCH THE CLIP

Dele Alli is reportedly back on the grass but the Everton star may still miss the entire season after undergoing a groin surgery in January.

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Alli has not played since March last yearHad undergone surgery to get rid of a groin issueMidfielder's Everton future hangs in the balanceWHAT HAPPENED?

According to , since his surgery, Dele has been diligently following a physical rehabilitation program designed by Everton's medical staff, with a strong emphasis on his overall well-being. He has been based in London during the early stages of his recovery, allowing him to remain close to his family.

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Despite the challenges posed by his injury, Dele has shown determination and positive progress, as he remains eager to repay Everton's faith in him. His return to Finch Farm marks the next phase of his rehabilitation, where he will focus on building strength before gradually returning to full training. While a comeback before the end of the season remains a possibility, caution is paramount given the nature of his recent injury setbacks.

WILL ALLI CONTINUE AT EVERTON?

The complex nature of Dele's situation is further compounded by the contractual terms between Everton and Tottenham, his parent club. It was agreed that the Toffees would pay £10million ($12.7m) to the north London outfit upon reaching 20 appearances. However, he is stuck at 13 and only one of them has been a start. Discussions regarding amendments to the deal, including a lump payment clause, if he chooses to sign a permanent contract at Everton will be taken up for discussion when negotiations resume in the summer.

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Despite the uncertainties, both Everton & Tottenham remain open to finding a resolution that serves Dele's best interests. While the player is keen to continue his career in the Premier League and make an impact at Everton, the club's ongoing takeover process and relegation battle make it a complicated affair. However, Everton manager, Sean Dyche, is ready to integrate him into the squad once he becomes available for selection. But further clarity on his situation may not come until the summer, with decisions likely to be influenced by the prevailing circumstances.

Leeds United have been dealt a big transfer blow to mooted target Ben Brereton Diaz this week…

What’s the word?

Last month, TEAMtalk reported of the Whites’ interest in the Chile international heading into the summer. West Ham and newly-promoted Fulham have also been linked with a move, though they have all been dealt a setback in their pursuit.

Blackburn Rovers have triggered the one-year extension on his current contract, even despite manager Tony Mowbray leaving at the end of the season after failing to reach the Championship playoffs, as his deal was set to expire in the summer.

And the departing boss believes the 23-year-old marksman should be worth in excess of £30m.

[snack-amp-story url=”https://www.footballfancast.com/web-stories/read-the-latest-leeds-united-news-transfer-rumours-gossip-and-much-more” title=”Read the latest Leeds United news and rumours!”]

Gutting summer setback

Diaz had been in electric form this campaign after he became the first Rovers player in 57 years to bag over 20 goals by the end of the calendar year. He ended the season on 22 goals and three assists, with ligament damage disrupting the early parts of 2022.

He has provided the Lancashire outfit with more than just goals, though, he’s a huge threat in the final third both aerially and with the ball at his feet.

“Brereton with the ball at his feet is an extraordinary talent,” Mowbray once told reporters (via LancsLive). “He’s a wonderful footballer who can dribble with both feet, take people out of the game.”

Indeed, the Chile sensation won an average of 4.1 duels and 2.8 shots per game, via SofaScore, throughout the 2021/22 campaign.

Given Patrick Bamford’s own injury woes for the Yorkshire giants and a lack of a viable alternative, potentially missing out on a player of Diaz’s calibre is certainly going to prove frustrating for director of football Victor Orta, who has seemingly been eyeing the striker for a very long time.

Along with ex-Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa, he was said to hugely admire the Rovers star, so the Championship outfit extending his deal certainly makes any summer move all that more difficult.

The Spaniard is surely gutted by this update.

AND in other news, Phil Hay drops big Jack Harrison injury update…

Rangers have scored 77 goals in their 37 SPFL games this season, making Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s men the second-highest scoring side in the top flight.

One player that has been a rather prominent attacking figure at Ibrox for the Gers is Ryan Kent.

In 24 league appearances, the winger has scored two goals and provided 11 assists along the way.

To further highlight how dangerous the Englishman has been in this campaign, no other Rangers player has averaged a higher number of dribbles per game than Kent (2).

Looking ahead to the upcoming summer transfer window, this could give the Ibrox outfit the chance to sign one player, in particular, that could go on to form a deadly attacking duo with the 25-year-old.

Back in April, it was reported that Rangers are one of the clubs interested in signing Sunderland striker Ross Stewart this summer.

After spending time with St. Mirren and Ross County, the striker joined the Wearside club in the 2021 January transfer window in a deal worth a reported fee of £300k.

Since then, the 25-year-old has scored 28 goals in 64 appearances for the Black Cats across all competitions.

To further highlight how much of a dangerous centre-forward he is, only three other players have racked up more shots on target than Stewart (56) in the entire league.

Labelled as a player “who never gives up” by Kevin Phillips, Stewart could be an ideal summer signing for Rangers as they will be aiming to take the SPFL title off their Old Firm rivals Celtic.

This would also give Gers manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst the chance to create a scary attacking pair at the top of the pitch between the Sunderland hitman and Kent.

With the winger’s talent for creating goalscoring opportunities for his side and Stewart’s impressive ability to put the ball in the back of the net, this could be just what Rangers need to bolster their attack and launch another title charge.

Moving forward, with Sunderland in the mix to gain promotion to the Championship, should the Wearside club fail in their attempt this time around, Rangers should definitely make a move to bring their star striker back to Scotland for a chance to bring the SPFL title to Ibrox again.

In other news: Big worry: Rangers dealt huge injury setback ahead of UEL final, GvB will be sweating