Crystal Palace are considering recalling winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi from his loan at Sheffield United, according to former Premier League scout Mick Brown. 

The 21-year-old has made just 10 senior appearances for the Eagles to date. However, he’s very highly thought of, boasting a record of 32 goals and 16 assists in 57 appearances for the club’s U18 and U21 teams combined.

Rak-Sakyi has looked extremely good today. There’s so much to like about this goal. pic.twitter.com/sZ4B8QkMkq

— HLTCO (@HLTCO) July 27, 2024

At international level, Rak-Sakyi has one goal in five caps for England’s U20 side.

Despite Palace selling Michael Olise to Bayern Munich in the summer, they also opted to let Rak-Sakyi leave on loan to Championship side Sheffield United.

While he hasn’t set the world alight, Rak-Sakyi has done well for the Yorkshire side, notching two goals and an assist in 11 Championship appearances so far.

Crystal Palace considering Jesurun Rak-Sakyi recall

It’s fair to say Crystal Palace are in need of attacking reinforcements.

The struggling Eagles have scored a league-low six Premier League goals so far this season, while no side in the top flight has created fewer big chances than Oliver Glasner’s men (14).

Jean-Philippe Mateta has scored half their goals, while Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi have one each, with an own goal from Brentford defender Ethan Pinnock the only other time they’ve found the net.

According to Brown, that is exactly why Palace are keeping a close eye on Rak-Sakyi, although he doesn’t predict the London club will end up bringing him back to Selhurst Park this season.

“Crystal Palace have been monitoring him closely,” Brown told Football Insider.

“He was sent to Sheffield United because he wasn’t going to be playing every week at Selhurst Park, and that’s still the case now.

“But Palace have had issues in his position, they’ve tried several players there and none of them have pulled up any trees so far.

“There’s been some consideration about whether they should recall him.

“They inserted that option to recall him for a reason – that was something they insisted on in the deal.

“As things stand, I’d expect him to stay at Sheffield United for the rest of the season.

“Like I said, he won’t play regular football at Palace like he will on loan even if they think he could make an impact in that position.

“The option is there, and it’s something they’re considering, but I’d be surprised if it happens.”

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Leicester City could perform a controversial move in January by recalling Tom Cannon from his loan spell at Stoke City just to sell the striker off for cash. 

The 21-year-old has been an important player for the Potters this season playing five Championship games and scoring four goals – all of which came in the one match against Portsmouth.

There is no place for Cannon at his parent club at present as Jamie Vardy is taking up the majority of the minutes in the striker role. The former Everton star could become the Leicester legend’s successor, however, the Foxes are thinking short-term and plan to sell the Stoke City star in January.

Several Championship clubs are interested in Cannon and according to pundit Carlton Palmer, the striker would like to join Sheffield United or West Bromwich Albion as both sides are among the best in the Championship and have a good chance of returning to the Premier League next season.

Speaking to Football League World, the pundit said: “Tom Cannon, who has scored four goals in five matches, has a recall clause in his contract from [Leicester] in January. It is worrying [for Stoke]… The Foxes are keen to cash in on the Irish forward.

When naming clubs that the striker could join, Palmer continued by saying: “And, obviously… West Bromwich Albion, or Sheffield United… Of course, you’re going to want to go to those clubs to be in the Premier League next season.”

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Leicester City want £10m for Tom Cannon

According to FLW, Leicester wanted £10m to part ways with Cannon during the summer and that price looks set to remain.

That fee will be a big help to the Foxes as they will want to strengthen in January to give themselves a chance of remaining in the Premier League but this sale can be viewed as controversial.

Even though there is a break clause in Cannon’s  Stoke contract, not many clubs have activated them in the past. Recalling the striker just to sell him seems like a pretty low move but on the other hand, Leicester need to do what they can to remain in England’s top flight.

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Panathinaikos are reportedly set to pay the full salary of George Baldock, who tragically passed away last week, showing a compassionate gesture towards his family.

The right-back, who had recently joined the Greek club from Sheffield United, was found unresponsive in a communal pool in Athens. Despite quick efforts by emergency services, Baldock could not be revived.

Following his untimely death, tributes flowed in from across the football world. Notably, the Greece national team dedicated their goal against England at Wembley to Baldock, as a heartfelt gesture to honour his memory.

His sudden passing has left the football community in shock, with many reflecting on his contribution to the sport.

Meanwhile, Panathinaikos have gone one step ahead to show empathy, making a remarkable gesture towards the family of the deceased.

According to Tribuna, the Greek club are considering paying out Baldock’s entire contract to support his fiancé and one-year-old son.

Additionally, the club is planning to hold a charity match in 2025 to further assist the family during this difficult time.

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George Baldock’s legacy at Sheffield United

George Baldock was a key figure at Sheffield United after joining from MK Dons in 2017. As a dynamic right-back, Baldock quickly established himself as a vital part of the Blades’ defence with his relentless work rate, defensive tenacity, and ability to contribute to attacking plays.

He was a crucial component of Sheffield United’s promotion to the Premier League in 2019, thriving under Chris Wilder’s unique 3-5-2 system, which allowed him to make overlapping runs and provide width.

Baldock’s consistent performances helped the club achieve an impressive ninth-place finish in their first season back in the top flight. He made over 200 appearances for the Blades, scoring 6 and assisting 16.

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Former Sheffield United star George Baldock has died at the age of 31 after being found at his home in Greece.

According to police sources via The Guardian, his body was found on Wednesday in a swimming pool at his home in Glyfada in southern Athens, but the cause of death remains unknown.

Baldock’s wife reportedly tried to contact him for several hours without a response, before she got in touch with the owner of his villa in Glyfada, reports The Daily Mail.

The football world has been paying tribute to the Englishman upon hearing the devastating news with his former club Sheffield United leading the way.

The Championship club posted on social media: “Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock.

“The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff and team-mates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him.

“The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends.”

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George Baldock’s career

Baldock joined Panathinaikos in the summer after spending seven seasons with Sheffield United between 2017 and 2024. The defender played 218 times for the Blades, scoring six goals alongside 16 assists and was involved in successful promotion campaigns to the Premier League.

The 31-year-old played in England’s top-flight for three seasons with the last being the 2023/24 campaign before heading to Greece.

Despite being born in England, Baldock represented Greece and made his debut on 2 June 2022 in a 1–0 win over Northern Ireland.

The 31-year-old was not part of Greece’s most recent squad, which is due to play England in the Nations League at Wembley on Thursday, after suffering an injury which ruled him out of games in September.

The post 2023/24 Premier League footballer found dead at home aged 31 appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Sheffield United have been praised by Sky Sports pundit Adrian Clarke for not selling Gustavo Hamer to Leeds this summer.

Both clubs will be among the favourites to fight for promotion back to the Premier League, with the Blades suffering relegation last season, whilst Leeds lost to Southampton in the play-off final.

Daniel Farke’s side currently sit sixth a point behind Sheffield United in fifth after the first six games of the season, with West Brom currently leading the way.

Leeds were interested in Hamer

It was a difficult summer for Leeds as they expectedly lost a number of their top performers in Crysencio Summerville, Archie Gray and Georginio Rutter.

Sheffield United will have been pleased to keep hold of Hamer, who will have a key role to play if the Blades are going to be in the mix for promotion.

However, Clarke has revealed that had things gone differently Hamer could have been playing for Leeds, with Farke’s side interested in the player.

“He (Hamer) was their player of the year last year, Leeds wanted him quite badly, United resisted the temptation and they’ll be very glad that they did,” he told the What The EFL?! podcast

“Coming in off the left-hand side, he’s been easily their best player so far this season. He’s such a match winner, Hamer, isn’t he? I’ve liked him ever since I saw him play for Coventry City a few years ago.”

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Hamer was named Sheffield United’s player of the year last season and the 27-year-old is a proven quantity in the Championship having also shone for Coventry during his time at the club.

The midfielder has had a superb start to the season with four goals and an assist in six Championship appearances and Sheffield United will be hoping no one comes in for Hamer in January and they at least keep him for the remainder of the season.

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Chris Wilder is not happy with Leeds United for what they did after selling Georgino Rutter and Archie Gray.

The Whites lost two of their best players but received £80 million in exchange for the pair.

And attempting to reinvest in the squad, Daniel Farke’s side made a late offer, believed to be worth just £13 million, for Sheffield United midfielder Gustavo Hamer.

Wilder took offence to his rivals’ offer though and didn’t hide his feelings during a recent press conference.

“With Gus, we talked about it from a Leeds point of view and what they did,” the Blades boss said.

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“I will always be honest with you and you know what I thought about it.

“They sold two players for £40m each and ridiculously low-balled us for our best player.

“I’m not here to appease anyone up the road, I’m here for Sheffield United Football Club and its best interests. The number was ridiculously low.”

Leeds’ offer was, of course, rejected and Hamer will now continue at Bramall Lane. Whether or not the Whites return for the 27-year-old in January remains to be seen though.

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Former Premier League defender Chris Basham has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 36, following an unsuccessful recovery from a severe injury sustained last season.

Basham’s injury occurred during a match between Sheffield United and Fulham last season, where he suffered a devastating ankle injury in a freak incident as he attempted to cross the ball.

The injury was severe enough to require immediate medical attention on the field, and Basham was given oxygen before being stretchered off. Unfortunately, the defender has been unable to fully recover, leading to the end of his playing career.

Basham posts emotional retirement message

With his contract at Sheffield United expiring while he was still in recovery, Basham took to social media to announce his decision to retire.

In an emotional post, he reflected on his career and expressed his gratitude to those who supported him along the way (quotes via The Sun):

“This is a post that I think many knew was coming, but it has been easier to accept after the past few months as I still recover from the injury last October at Craven Cottage.

“I would like to thank everyone who has made my career in the game a special one including those that taught me important lessons.

“Sheffield United, wow, a club that I never expected to play for. A club that I quickly fell in love with and for ten years.

“I found the real me as a footballer here, they inspired me and pushed me as a player which brought on a whole new drive and passion for the game, giving me my best years of football.

“I gave everything to the club and got everything back, from the staff at the club, to the amazing fans that will forever be in my heart and most of all the successes, and the fantastic memories that came with it. Thank you!”

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Legacy at Sheffield United

Basham’s legacy at Sheffield United is huge. He made 394 appearances for the Blades, contributing 15 goals and 15 assists. His tenure at the club was marked by three promotions, and he became a fan favourite due to his consistent performances and dedication on the pitch. (Transfermarkt)

Having joined from Blackpool in 2014, Basham quickly became a key figure in the team’s successes over the years.

As Basham transitions away from playing, it is interesting to see what his next move will be.

Whether he chooses to pursue a career in punditry or coaching remains to be seen, but former Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has already backed him to excel in whatever path he chooses next.

The post Former Premier League defender forced to retire after failing to recover from horror Injury suffered last season appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Leicester City striker Tom Cannon is the subject of interest from four Championship clubs with a £5m bid already tabled, according to reports.

A product of the Everton youth system, Cannon joined Leicester at the end of the 2023 summer transfer window.

However, the one-time Republic of Ireland international missed a portion of the season with a back injury, while the form of the likes of Jamie Vardy, Stephy Mavididi and Patson Daka meant his opportunities were further restricted.

Cannon played just 13 times in the Championship and 16 times across all competitions totalling 600 minutes, but still managed three goals and two assists during that time.

What’s more, a previous loan spell at Preston North End in 2022/23 that yielded eight goals and an assist in 20 Championship appearances was enough to make it clear just what he can deliver at that level.

Four Championship clubs chasing Leicester striker Tom Cannon

That’s according to Football Insider, who report that no fewer than four Championship clubs are in the race to sign Cannon before the closing of the transfer window on Friday.

Hull City have apparently already tabled a £5m offer for the 21-year-old, but Leicester are holding out for £7m.

The Tigers are understood to be joined by Sunderland, Sheffield United and Norwich City in the race for Cannon, who hasn’t featured for Leicester this season having been an unused substitute against Tottenham and failing to make the squad at all against Fulham or Tranmere.

Cannon’s contract at the King Power Stadium runs until the summer of 2028, meaning Leicester will feel no need to sell the striker on the cheap as the end of the transfer window approaches.

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Oliver Arblaster has reaffirmed his loyalty to Sheffield United amid rumours linking him to Aston Villa and West Ham.

Arblaster spent the first half of last season on loan at League One side Port Vale before being recalled and making 12 Premier League appearances for the Blades.

The England youth international impressed in the top flight, averaging 1.05 chances created, 33.2 passes completed and 2.19 tackles per 90 minutes.

Arblaster’s form wasn’t enough to save Sheffield Utd from relegation and an embarrassing return of just three wins and 16 points from 38 games.

However, the 20-year-old still hasn’t found himself short of potential suitors — especially after starting the 2024/25 campaign with two goals in three Championship appearances — with The Telegraph reporting that Aston Villa and West Ham are pursuing a late-window deal.

Oliver Arblaster responds to Premier League links

Arblaster has been asked about interest from the Premier League. However, rather than having his head turned, the young midfielder has instead insisted he remains loyal to Sheffield United and is simply ‘loving’ playing for his boyhood club.

“I don’t really listen to that. I love playing for Sheffield United, there’s no doubt about it. I’ll just keep my head down, keep playing and hopefully performing well,” Arblaster said (via TBR).

“I just want to keep doing my talking on the pitch. Supporting this club and going home and away, watching the team. I just love playing for Sheffield United, and I’d like to do that for a lot longer.”

The post England midfield talent shoots down Aston Villa & West Ham links – “I don’t really listen to that” appeared first on CaughtOffside.

The draw for the second round of the Carabao Cup has been made, with the likes of Newcastle United, West Ham United and Everton learning their fate.

After round one saw Championship, League One and League Two sides kick things off, we’ve reached the stage where the Premier League clubs not competing in European competition enter the tournament.

All-Premier League ties of Nottingham Forest vs Newcastle and West Ham vs Bournemouth are among the most eye-catching, while there are also some local derbies like Millwall vs Leyton Orient, Barnsley vs Sheffield United and Blackburn vs Blackpool.

Read on for the full Carabao Cup round two draw, with all ties to be played the week commencing August 26.

Carabao Cup draw

Northern section

Grimsby vs Sheffield Wednesday

Everton vs Doncaster

Blackburn vs Blackpool

Fleetwood vs Rotherham

Shrewsbury vs Bolton

Nottingham Forest vs Newcastle

Barrow vs Derby

Leicester vs Tranmere

Middlesbrough vs Stoke

Barnsley vs Sheffield United

Harrogate vs Preston

Walsall vs Huddersfield

Wolves vs Burnley

Southern section

Coventry vs Oxford United

Swansea vs Wycombe

AFC Wimbledon vs Ipswich

Birmingham vs Fulham

Watford vs Plymouth

West Ham vs Bournemouth

QPR vs Luton

Brighton vs Crawley

Crystal Palace vs Norwich

Cardiff vs Southampton

Millwall vs Leyton Orient

Colchester vs Brentford

The post Carabao Cup R2 draw: Newcastle, West Ham, Everton and other Premier League clubs learn their fate appeared first on CaughtOffside.