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Liverpool signed best young player in the world in club-record deal

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A number of Liverpool players were named in FourFourTwo’s Top 100 Young Players of 2001 – but the list has not aged well

Liverpool’s academy has produced some incredible players during the Premier League era.

Steven McManaman, Robbie Fowler, Jamie Carragher, Michael Owen, and Steven Gerrard famously all starred for the Reds after bursting onto the scene in the nineties, while the likes of Dominic Matteo and David Thompson also broke through at the same time.
Fast forward to the present day and Trent Alexander-Arnold, Curtis Jones, and Caoimhin Kelleher are vital members of Jurgen Klopp’s first team squad after graduating from the Academy, while the likes of Harvey Elliott and Stefan Bajcetic snapped up for the youth ranks during their mid-teens.
And the Academy conveyor belt is showing no signs of slowing down, with the likes of Ben Doak, Bobby Clark, Conor Bradley, and Jarell Quansah all becoming the next players to take decisive first team steps in 2023/24.

However, the Reds’ academy hasn’t always been the ‘gold mine’ it is today. Throughout the noughties, it was regularly rued how Gerrard remained the last graduate to become a key first team player.
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Considering how fruitful the nineties had been, mentioned alongside Manchester United’s class of ‘92, onlookers were baffled at Liverpool’s failure to unearth the next Gerrard, Owen, or Carragher. In the end it took multiple changes behind the scenes, overseen by the likes of Rafa Benitez and Brendan Rodgers, before the Reds truly got back on path under Klopp.

But that didn’t prevent Liverpool from boasting a number of highly-rated youngsters that ultimately didn’t quite live up to expectations during their barren run. And FourFourTwo’s list of the 100 best players in world football in 2001 demonstrates this extremely well.

Six Reds players featured in the list, with all placing in the top 40 and two in the top 10. Meanwhile, three future Liverpool players would make up the top five, with one future academy signing taking their overall contingent to 10. Yet, looking back, only one of those can actually claim to have actually been one of the best stars of their generation.

A number of the greatest players of the 21st century feature among the list. But when you consider 2007 Ballon d’Or winner Kaka, who lifted both the World Cup and Champions League during his illustrious playing career, only placed 95th, you have an idea about the direction we’re about to take.

Congratulations, Kaka! Back in 2001, you were rated higher than Alexander Hleb, David Prutton, Erdal Kilicaslan, Daniyel Cimen, and Benjamin Auer! Don’t worry, we can’t recall that latter trio either. Alas, Shaun Maloney and Kieran Richardson both placed higher than the legendary Brazilian in places 100-91.

Breaking into the eighties, we have our first future Liverpool player. Ramon Calliste. Then of Manchester United, he won the FA Youth Cup with the club in 2003 but left the Red Devils for the Reds in 2005 and was the reserves’ top goalscorer in 2005/06.

The Welshman joined Scunthorpe United after just one season, on the advice of national team manager John Toshack, but badly dislocated his ankle in his first pre-season. That injury ensured he could never live up to his early potential and forced him to walk away from the game.

Working our way down the list, you can spot the recognisable names of Dimitar Berbatov at 82nd, Michael Essien at 78th, and Championship Manager legend Cherno Samba at 71st!

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Liverpool were actually once in talks to sign the striker from Millwall, even tabling a £1.5m bid only to fail to agree a deal with the Lions. The move fell through and Samba never lived up to his potential, with that collapsed transfer to Anfield ultimately sending him on a downward spiral.

Samba would eventually move to Spanish side Cadiz, later spending time with Malaga B, Plymouth Argyle, Wrexham, Haka, Panetolikos and FK Tonsberg before injury forced a premature retirement when just 29 years old in July 2015.

Moving on and Matteo Brighi, then of Juventus, is next on the list in 70th. Another video game legend, he was bizarrely the highest-rated player in FIFA 2003 with an incredible rating of 97. Ronaldo (Brazilian, not Cristiano), is the only player in the history of the game to ever be rated higher than EA. Curiously, not in 2002/03 though, despite just starring at the World Cup and winning that year’s Ballon d’Or.

That’s right, Lionel Messi and Ronaldo (Cristiano, not Brazilian) are ‘worse’ than Brighi, from a certain point of virtual view. Anyway, Juventus would sell the midfielder to Parma that same summer as injuries ensured he never lived up to his potential. Spotting a recurring theme here? Anyway, we digress…

There are a few recognisable names between 70th and 40th, with Joaquin of Real Betis in 42nd easily the most successful, but you can check out the full list at the bottom of the article if you want the full yesteryear experience.

Which brings us to our first then Liverpool player! Chris Kirkland placed 38th! Not bad for a goalkeeper who was tipped to be a future England number one.

Signing from Coventry City in a £6m deal in September 2001, he became the most expensive goalkeeper in British transfer history, at only 20 years old. However, injuries would ultimately derail his time at Anfield.

Making 45 appearances in five years, he was part of the side that won the Champions League in 2005 and had actually ousted Jerzy Dudek as first-choice under Benitez earlier that season. Yet a back injury ensured he missed the second half of that campaign and missed the final.

Permanent moves to Wigan Athletic, Sheffield Wednesday, Preston North End, and Bury followed before he retired in 2016 after a four-year battle with depression. Thankfully, Kirkland is in a better place these days, is a regular in the Anfield press box and works closely with the LFC Foundation.

Strikers Dean Ashton and Zlatan Ibrahimovic placed 36th and 35th respectively, with Gareth Barry 31st. If not for a stubborn Martin O’Neill and Aston Villa, we’d have another Liverpool representative.

But then edging in ahead of Jermain Defoe, we have the Reds’ next then-player to make the cut in defender Gregory Vignal. The Frenchman made 20 appearances for the Reds after joining the club in September 2000, and enjoyed an extended run in the starting XI at the beginning of the 2001/02 season.

However, a fractured foot derailed his progress and ruled him out of the season. After a number of loan moves, he joined Portsmouth in 2005, and had stints with Lens, Birmingham City, Atromitos, Dundee United, and AS Beziers before retiring in 2013. Now a coach, he was appointed assistant manager at FC Versailles earlier this summer.

Skimming over the likes Arjen Robben, Maicon, and Ricardo Quaresma, Milan Baros takes 21st in FourFourTwo’s list. Signed from Banik Ostrava for £3.2m in 2002, the striker burst onto the scene at Anfield in the 2002/03 season as he scored a respectable 12 goals.

Recovering from a broken ankle suffered in September 2003, he won the Golden Boot at Euro 2004 as Czech Republic reached the semi-finals, before finishing as Liverpool’s leading goalscorer in the 2004/05 season with 13 goals as they won the Champions League.

That wasn’t enough to retain his place in Benitez’s plans though, as he was sold to Aston Villa in a £6.5m deal. Moves to Lyon and Galatasaray, and Antalyaspor followed, before injury forced his retirement in 2020 after a number of stints back in his native Czech Republic.

Into the top 20 now. The big leagues, and what a start with Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta placed 20th. Six places ahead of him we have our next Liverpool entrant – John Welsh.

Once tipped to be a ‘next Gerrard’, Welsh never lived up to such hype. He made just 10 appearances for the Reds before being traded with Hull City for young winger Paul Anderson in January 2006.

Permanent stints with Tranmere Rovers, Preston North End, and Grimsby Town followed, with Welsh spending the majority of his playing career as a League One midfielder, before he dropped into non-league with Atherton Collieries and Stafford Rangers. He is now a professional development phase (U18 and U16) coach back at Preston North End.

Into the top 10 and French cousins Anthony Le Tallec and Florent Sinama-Pongolle are ranked ninth and seventh respectively. In 2001 they had already been signed by Liverpool after starring at the FIFA Under-17s World Cup, but remained on loan at Le Havre for two more years.

Officially moving to Anfield in 2003, both would play their part in the Reds’ run to winning the Champions League in 2005 but ultimately never lived up to early expectations. Le Tallec made 32 appearances for the club, scoring once, before returning to France permanently with Le Mans in 2008 after a number of loan moves away.

Stints with Auxerre and Valenciennes followed, suffering relegation with both, before moves to Greece and Romania with Atromitos and Astra Giurgiu. He’d then return to France with Orleans, before finishing his career with Annecy in 2021.

As for Pongolle, he fared slightly better. Scoring nine goals in 65 appearances for Liverpool, the one-time France international left for La Liga in 2006 and impressed with Recreativo de Huelva and Atletico Madrid. However, his fortunes flailed after an unsuccessful move to Sporting Lisbon.

Consequently, he’d take

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Derek Carr bids farewell to NFL after 11 dramatic years with New Orleans Saints and four Pro Bowl wins

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Derek Carr bids farewell to NFL after 11 dramatic years with New Orleans Saints and four Pro Bowl wins

In an era where the gridiron has seen its fair share of legends come and go, Derek Carr’s departure from the National Football League marks the end of an illustrious chapter both for him and the New Orleans Saints. After an eventful 11-year journey adorned with four Pro Bowl selections, Carr has decided to hang up his cleats, leaving behind a legacy that intertwines with the Saints’ quest for stability and excellence.

A Storied Career

Derek Carr’s journey through the NFL is nothing short of remarkable. Over a span of more than a decade, Carr’s resilience, skill, and leadership on the field have not only earned him individual accolades but have also significantly contributed to the fabric of the New Orleans Saints. His four Pro Bowl appearances stand as a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to the game. Carr’s career, punctuated by highs and lows, reflects the quintessential NFL saga of perseverance, excellence, and the relentless pursuit of success.

Transition and Retirement

The offseason leading up to Carr’s retirement announcement was rife with speculation and uncertainty regarding his future with the Saints. The air buzzed with rumors of potential moves, underscoring the ever-present nature of change in professional sports. However, amidst the whirlwind of speculation, a new chapter was silently being written for the Saints, with Tyler Shough being poised as the quarterback of the future for the team. This transition marks a significant milestone in the team’s journey, signaling a new era and the end of an impactful tenure for Carr.

Carr’s decision to retire brings a sense of closure to the swirling rumors and speculations about his future. It’s a decision that not only reflects his personal journey but also highlights the ephemeral nature of professional sports careers. His announcement was met with a mix of emotions, underscoring the respect and admiration he has garnered over the years. Carr’s departure is not just the end of a career but a moment of reflection on the impact and memories he leaves behind.

Legacy and Reflection

Derek Carr’s legacy with the New Orleans Saints and in the NFL at large is indelible. His journey from a promising young talent to a seasoned veteran and leader on and off the field is a narrative of growth, challenge, and triumph. Carr’s career serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, a reminder of the dedication required to excel at the highest levels of sport.

As the Saints look to the future with Tyler Shough, the lessons and leadership of Derek Carr will undoubtedly continue to influence the team. Carr’s retirement is not just a farewell to the field but a celebration of a career that has left an indelible mark on the NFL and the hearts of football fans.

In reflecting on Derek Carr’s retirement, one is reminded of the transient beauty of sports careers and the lasting impact of genuine talent and character. Carr’s journey through the NFL is a poignant reminder of the dedication, resilience, and passion that define the essence of professional sports. As the sun sets on his career, the legacy of Derek Carr will continue to inspire future generations, serving as a beacon of excellence in the ever-evolving narrative of the NFL.

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Derek Carr’s shoulder injury plunges New Orleans Saints into quarterback chaos and ignites urgent search for stability

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Derek Carr’s shoulder injury plunges New Orleans Saints into quarterback chaos and ignites urgent search for stability

Gripping Dilemma Unfolds

Derek Carr’s shoulder injury has emerged as the catalyst for a seismic shift within the challenging quarterback landscape of the New Orleans Saints. The team now faces an abrupt crisis, with uncertainty looming over their offensive future. The injury is severe enough that it might bench Carr for the entire upcoming season—a prospect that leaves fans and teammates questioning the readiness of the existing roster.

The Strain on Quarterback Depth

At this pivotal juncture, the Saints are grappling with deep-seated issues in their quarterback room. With a key contributor sidelined, long-standing concerns about the team’s offensive stability have reached a boiling point. The current predicament underscores the critical need for proactive measures—a tactical reassessment of roles, mentoring of emerging talent, and the exploration of alternative strategies to bolster the lineup.

Navigating an Urgent Search for Stability

In the wake of Carr’s misfortune, the organization is compelled to embark on an urgent quest for consistency. The scramble to identify and prepare reliable backups has thrust the coaching staff into a high-pressure environment where every decision carries weight. The situation has prompted introspection about the team’s overall strategy, with seasoned players and coaching leaders striving to forge a path forward while nurturing resilience and adaptability among the ranks.

Reflecting on Future Implications

This challenging episode invites a broader reflection on the unpredictable nature of sports and the resilience required to navigate adversity. The Saints’ quest for a solution not only highlights the immediate battle against injury-induced setbacks but also serves as a reminder of the continual evolution inherent in competitive play. As the team refines its approach and searches for lasting stability, the broader implications hint at a potential transformation in strategy and team dynamics—a transformation that could redefine their future trajectory and leave an enduring impact on both the organization and its loyal supporters.

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Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies has invested $3.6 million to transform a house into a shelter for homeless youth in Tennessee

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Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies has invested $3.6 million to transform a house into a shelter for homeless youth in Tennessee

The Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has taken a major step to support vulnerable youth in his community. The NBA standout has reportedly invested an impressive $3.6 million to convert a residential property in Tennessee into a fully functional shelter dedicated to helping homeless youth get back on their feet.

This transformative project is not just about bricks and mortar—it’s about hope. According to those close to Morant, the decision to invest in this shelter was deeply personal. He has always been vocal about the importance of giving back, particularly to young people who are facing difficult circumstances. This latest gesture reflects his commitment to using his platform and success to create real, lasting change off the basketball court.

The shelter will provide more than just a place to sleep. Plans include comprehensive services like counseling, job training, educational support, and wellness programs aimed at helping residents transition into stable, independent living. Morant wants the facility to be a sanctuary where youth feel safe, valued, and empowered.

Community leaders and fans have praised Morant’s action, calling it a shining example of how athletes can influence change beyond their sport. His investment comes at a time when youth homelessness is rising across the U.S., and Tennessee is no exception.

This initiative is expected to open its doors in the coming months, and it marks a new chapter in Morant’s legacy—not just as a basketball phenom, but as a humanitarian determined to make a difference where it matters most.

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Detroit Lions Make Historic Move at NFL Draft

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Detroit Lions Make Historic Move at NFL Draft

Amid all the excitement of the NFL draft, the Detroit Lions quietly made a very historic move and a first for the NFL.
The Detroit Lions have made a lot of history the past few years, thanks to their recent winning seasons that finally got people to stop the “Same old Lions” rant. In keeping up with that trend, the team once again made history during the 2025 NFL draft, and it was the good kind of history.

Amid all the excitement, the Lions quietly struck a first for the National Football League with their No. 196 overall pick in the draft.

New Lions Player Marks a First for the NFL
Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes spent a lot of time vetting the candidates that got drafted to the Lions’ 2025 roster, and one of those guys is originally from Egypt. When the Lions picked up Boise State University edge rusher Ahmed Hassanein with their No. 196 selection, they drafted the first Egyptian native in the history of the NFL.

Overall, it’s a feel-good pick, and not just because it’s the first time an Egyptian-born football player is in the NFL. Hassanein brings some very impressive numbers to Detroit. During his junior and senior years at Boise State, the player started in 28 games and recorded 101 tackles. He also recorded 22 sacks. This is the kind of guy the Lions want in their roster to support Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport.

Hassanein was beside himself with excitement when he got the call from Campbell and company that he made the team. He even went so far to say that he would actually “die” for Campbell on the field. That’s a bit much, but we appreciate the enthusiasm.

On his initial phone call from Campbell, Hassanein can be heard saying, “I would die for you, coach. I just wanted you to believe in me. I just wanted you to believe in me, coach. I would die on that field for you. I promise I would.”

More Detroit Lions Draft Moves
The Lions traded up in the third round to draft wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, and it was a big and rather surprising move that drew some criticism. They gave up three third-round picks to go from No. 102 to No. 70 and snag TeSlaa, and ESPN analyst and expert Jordan Reid actually named the move the worst in-draft trade of the draft.

“The Detroit Lions trading up 32 spots to take receiver Isaac TeSlaa early in Round 3 was an overpay,” he stated in an April 27 feature. “Along with giving up their own third-round pick, Detroit also gave up an extra third-round pick in 2026. While I like TeSlaa, I don’t think he was worth the capital the organization surrendered.”

Max DeMara of SideLion Report makes the good point that with some negative attention being thrown TeSlaa’s way, he’ll work hard to prove the doubters wrong. “One thing is certain given his status as a fan of the team: TeSlaa will be motivated to work hard and prove why those negative evaluations were incorrect,” DeMara stated in an April 27 piece.

DeMara also makes the solid point that “prospects who are household names always generate more attention, but underrated players have done just as much damage after entering the league. As always, it’s most important to give players time to develop and show what they can do in their unique situations.”

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HE’S BACK! Patrick Ngongba Stuns College Basketball World with Shocking Return to Duke Blue Devils for his….

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HE’S BACK! Patrick Ngongba Stuns College Basketball World with Shocking Return to Duke Blue Devils for his….

HE’S BACK! Patrick Ngongba Stuns College Basketball World with Shocking Return to Duke Blue Devils
The college basketball world was rocked recently by the shocking news of Patrick Ngongba’s return to the Duke Blue Devils. After initially announcing his departure from the team, Ngongba stunned fans and pundits alike by reversing his decision and committing to stay with the program. This unexpected turn of events has sent shockwaves throughout the college basketball community, with many wondering what prompted Ngongba’s sudden change of heart.
Ngongba’s initial decision to leave Duke had been met with widespread surprise and disappointment. The talented forward had been a key contributor to the Blue Devils’ success, showcasing his impressive skills and athleticism on the court. His departure would have undoubtedly left a significant void in the team’s lineup, and fans were bracing themselves for a difficult season without their star player.
However, in a stunning reversal, Ngongba announced that he would, in fact, be returning to Duke. The news was met with jubilation from Blue Devils fans, who had been eagerly awaiting Ngongba’s decision. The reasons behind Ngongba’s initial departure and subsequent return are still somewhat murky, but it’s clear that he had a change of heart.
Ngongba’s return is a significant boost to the Blue Devils’ program. His talent, leadership, and experience will undoubtedly play a major role in the team’s success this season. With Ngongba back in the fold, the Blue Devils are once again a team to be reckoned with, and fans are eagerly anticipating the impact he will have on the court.
The implications of Ngongba’s return extend beyond just the Duke program. His decision has sent shockwaves throughout the college basketball world, with many teams and players taking notice. Ngongba’s commitment to Duke is a testament to the program’s excellence and appeal, and it’s likely that other top recruits will take notice.
As the season gets underway, all eyes will be on Ngongba and the Blue Devils. Will he live up to the hype surrounding his return? Can the team capitalize on his talent and experience to make a deep run in the tournament? These are questions that only time will answer, but one thing is certain: Patrick Ngongba’s return to Duke is a story that will be closely followed by fans and pundits alike.
Ngongba’s story serves as a reminder that, in the world of college basketball, nothing is ever certain. Players can change their minds, coaches can switch teams, and unexpected upsets can occur at any moment. This unpredictability is part of what makes college basketball so thrilling, and Ngongba’s return is a perfect example.
The college basketball community will be watching with bated breath as the season unfolds. How will Ngongba perform on the court? Will the Blue Devils live up to expectations? These are questions that will be answered in the coming months, and fans are eagerly anticipating the action.
In the end, Patrick Ngongba’s return to Duke is a story about perseverance, determination, and the power of second chances. Ngongba’s decision to stay with the program is a testament to his commitment to himself, his teammates, and the university. As the season gets underway, fans will be cheering him on every step of the way.
The excitement surrounding Ngongba’s return is palpable, and it’s clear that this is a story that will continue to unfold in the coming months. With the college basketball world abuzz about Ngongba’s decision, it’s likely that we’ll be hearing a lot more about the Blue Devils and their star forward in the months to come.
As the season progresses, we’ll get to see Ngongba in action, showcasing his skills and athleticism on the court. His return to Duke has generated a lot of buzz, and fans are eager to see what he will bring to the team. With his talent, leadership, and experience, Ngongba is poised to make a significant impact.
The college basketball landscape is always changing, and Ngongba’s return is just the latest twist in an ever-evolving narrative. As we look ahead to the rest of the season, one thing is certain: Patrick Ngongba’s return to Duke is a story that will be remembered for a long time.
In conclusion, Patrick Ngongba’s shocking return to the Duke Blue Devils is a story that has captivated the college basketball world. His decision to stay with the program is a testament to his commitment and perseverance. As the season unfolds, fans will be eagerly anticipating Ngongba’s performances on the court. With his talent and leadership, the Blue Devils are poised to make a deep run in the tournament. The excitement surrounding Ngongba’s return is palpable, and it’s clear that this is a story that will continue to unfold in the coming months.
The impact of Ngongba’s return will be felt throughout the college basketball world. His decision to stay with Duke sends a strong message about the program’s appeal and excellence. As other top recruits take notice, the Blue Devils will likely continue to attract top talent. Ngongba’s story

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