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Liverpool fans have taken to Twitter to react after Bayern Munich boss Niko Kovac revealed that his players feigned injury in order to waste time in the Champions League last 16 tie at Anfield.

The former Eintracht Frankfurt manager led his side to a 0-0 draw in the first leg of the tie at Anfield, but decided against pursuing a potentially crucial away goal in favour of running the clock down with some crafty game management.

As quoted by This Is Anfield, Kovac said to Sky Sports: “We all know the drill: it’s close to the final whistle and you try to waste a bit of time.

“Javi (Martinez) has good performance data, meaning he couldn’t have even had a cramp. That’s all a bit of acting.”

Whilst his comments could quite rightly infuriate Liverpool fans, they must realise that the Croatian was obviously fearful of the Reds’ attacking threat, and subsequently decided to stick with what he had and take it back to Bavaria.

Kovac clearly respects Liverpool as being a serious threat to his side. He also admitted that Kingsley Coman pretended to have cramp in the recent 3-2 win over Hertha Berlin, so this tactic is one that Kovac clearly uses quite often and that Jurgen Klopp may even need to develop into his management style if his side are to become ruthless winners.

Let’s see how Liverpool fans on Twitter reacted to the news…

Valerien Ismael will be absolutely thrilled with another three points for West Brom today as they saw off Reading at The Hawthorns with a 1-0 win.

Callum Robinson found the back of the net for the fourth time this season for the Baggies, after Karlan Grant set up the 26-year-old in the 62nd minute of the game as West Brom landed their second consecutive win. That saw them close the gap between themselves and Bournemouth to just three points behind the automatic promotion spot in second.

One man who was an unsung hero on the day was 19-year-old prodigy Taylor Gardner-Hickman, whose work as left wing-back should not go unnoticed for Albion.

Valerien Ismael is a huge fan of the youngster and recently praised the teenager after spotting him in the youth team, saying: “We first spotted him in pre-season. Taylor was the first one because of the intensity he plays at.

“He’s fast, he’s able to cover big distances, he has high speed, he can sprint, he has quality on the ball, he is calm and he has no fear.”As per SofaScore, Gardner-Hickman deservedly had the highest rating on the entire pitch with 8.3, and when you look at his statistics for the game, it’s not hard to see why that was the case. The 19-year-old won 12 duels, with 80 touches and a 92% pass accuracy, which is very impressive and proves just how influential he was to the win today.With only four appearances for West Brom in the Championship so far, and continuing to double up on his under-23 duties in Premier League 2, where he has one goal and two assists, Gardner-Hickman is surely showing Ismael that he is worthy of a regular spot starting in the senior team going forward. Indeed, the youngster is already becoming one of the 46-year-old’s main men at The Hawthorns, as we saw today.In other news: Journalist drops West Brom January transfer claim

With no goals scored in their previous two Premier League games, the upcoming January transfer window could provide West Ham United with the perfect opportunity to strengthen their squad and set themselves up to push for a top-four finish by the end of the campaign.

Taking this into account, it seems as though the east London club have their eye on securing a new attacking talent who could be just what they need to end the season on a high.

What’s the news?

According to a recent report from Football Insider, West Ham have their eye on making a move to sign Rubin Kazan attacker Khvicha Kvaratskhelia alongside fellow Premier League clubs Everton and Southampton.

Since joining Rubin on a free transfer from FC Rustavi back in the 2019 summer transfer window, the 20-year-old winger – who is currently valued at £16.2m by Transfermarkt – has made 68 appearances for his club across all competitions, scoring eight goals and providing 16 assists.

Having been likened to former Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery – who scored 124 goals and provided 182 assists in 425 appearances for the Bavarian giants – by Denis Bushuev, Kvaratskhelia could be an exciting prospect for West Ham to add to their squad in January.

In his 15 league games so far this season for Rubin, Kvaratskhelia has shown how talented an attacking player he is by averaging 2.2 shots and 1.4 key passes per game.

To put these numbers into perspective, current Irons attacker Said Benrahma has racked up similar averages of 2.1 shots and 1.1 key passes per game in 17 Premier League appearances this term, showing that the Georgian has what it takes to mix it with West Ham’s senior attackers.

Moving forward, taking into account Kvaratskhelia’s attacking talents and West Ham’s lack of recent goals, they should be doing all they can to beat Everton and Southampton to his signature to add an extra spark to their attacking ranks as they look to finish in the top four.

In other news: “I could see” – Journalist drops exciting claim at West Ham which will have fans buzzing

Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg has broken an ‘update’ on Leeds United’s quest to sign RB Salzburg midfielder Brenden Aaronson this summer.

The Lowdown: Aaronson a primary target

Few players have been more regularly linked with a move to Elland Road in recent months than Aaronson, who was tipped to head there during the January transfer window.

Instead, the 21-year-old ended up remaining at Salzburg for the time being, where he has started all eight of his side’s Champions League games this season.

It seems almost inevitable that Leeds will return for Aaronson this summer after making two bids and considering a third under Marcelo Bielsa, and a fresh update has emerged in that respect.

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The Latest: Leeds ‘favourites’ to sign midfielder

Taking to Twitter on Monday, Sky Sports Germany’s Plettenberg claimed that the Whites are the front-runners to snap up the American:

“Update Aaronson: He still wants to leave Salzburg in summer. Negotiations with Leeds are still ongoing. RB rejected offers from LUFC in winter. But they still want him! It is said that Leeds is the favourite. Price tag: €25-30m. No release clause. Big talent!”

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The Verdict: Everything makes sense

There really are only positives when it comes to Leeds signing Aaronson this summer, with so many things working in his favour.

He has played under Jesse Marsch in the past, taking out the risk element of a manager signing someone he doesn’t know, while his style of play fits perfectly into what the Whites’ boss is looking for.

Fully of energy and quality, Aaronson has averaged 1.8 tackles per game in the Champions League this season, showing that he is a hard-working player, and 1.6 key passes per match also prove that he can be a creative force in an attacking midfield role. Only Raphinha (2.1) has averaged more for Leeds in the Premier League in 2021/22.

In other news, Adam Pope has dropped a key Leeds injury claim ahead of the weekend. Read more here.

Speaking live on Sky Sports, reporter Kaveh Solhekol has made a West Ham United transfer claim involving Man United attacker Jesse Lingard.

The Lowdown: West Ham eye move…

The Red Devils ace is a top target for manager David Moyes and recruitment chief Rob Newman as the January transfer window nears it’s half way point.

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As reliably reported, the Irons boss is personally eyeing a move to bring Lingard back to West Ham on a permanent deal following his impressive 2020/2021 loan spell.

This comes amid his precarious contract situation with the 29-year-old set to leave as a free agent later this year as things stand, but in a live TV update, Solhekol may have just shared a blow as he makes a West Ham transfer claim.

The Latest: Solhekol makes Lingard claim…

According to the Sky journalist, sharing what he’s been ‘told’ after being asked about Lingard to West Ham, he explains it could be off the table as things stand but refuses to rule out a ‘change’ near the end of the window.

“As things stand, I was told that’s not happening, there’s nothing happening as far as Lingard and West Ham are concerned,” he explained.

“Of course, that could change as we get closer to the end of the window, but at the moment the information we have is nothing is going on there.”

The Verdict: A must move…

Given how impressive Lingard was for West Ham and how he could bolster Moyes’ options in the final third, some Irons supporters may be hoping that they could indeed still sign him nearer the end of January.

Called ‘amazing’ by pundit Rio Ferdinand, the attacking midfielder’s brilliant haul of nine goals and four assists in 16 Premier League starts is testament to just how well he can perform under Moyes.

As West Ham continue their push for historic Champions League qualification, they will need proven reinforcements and reports have suggested that United could accept a cut price £15 million for Lingard this month.

This arguably comes as a bargain and we believe the Irons should certainly maintain a push for the player.

In other news: Bid made: Newman tables offer to sign ‘outstanding’ in-demand new striker target for West Ham, find out more here.

According to journalist James Olley, via ESPN UK, a major update has come to light involving AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie and Tottenham Hotspur.

The Lowdown: Paratici eyeing free agent moves…

As the January transfer window officially opens for business, Spurs and transfer chief Fabio Paratici apparently have a particular goal in mind for Antonio Conte.

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The Lilywhites’ rumoured priority for January is attracting ‘quality players at zero cost’ as Tottenham become linked with a plethora of potential 2022 free agents.

Alessio Romagnoli and Antonio Rudiger are just some of the names who have been mentioned, with Milan stalwart Kessie also among Paratici’s list of targets.

Sharing some news on the Ivory Coast midfielder, ESPN reporter Olley has now made a huge claim.

The Latest: Olley makes Spurs offer claim…

As per his sources, via ESPN UK, Tottenham are apparently set to table a ‘lucrative’ offer for the 25-year-old this month as they try to tempt him to signing a pre-contract deal.

Kessie’s current contract expires in the summer with no agreement over an extension as things stand, putting Paratici and Spurs on red alert as they eye an agreement for the midfielder.

The Verdict: Priority move…

Signing Kessie on a free transfer would certainly stand out as a fantastic piece of business by Spurs.

The defensive anchor has been reinvented in a more advanced role under Rossoneri manager Stefano Pioli, so much so that he has bagged a brilliant tally of 18 goals and four assists in Serie A alone since the start of 2020/21 (WhoScored).

Pioli has been among the first to point out the player’s sensational performances at the San Siro over the last few seasons, describing Kessie as ‘invaluable’ to the team (Forbes). Elsewhere, he has also been shining on the international stage, having already amassed 52 caps for the Ivory Coast at a young age.

He could certainly be an asset for Conte and we believe a free deal for Kessie should be among Tottenham’s top priorities this month.

In other news: ‘Absolute no-brainer’…Sky Sports pundit thrilled by ‘exciting’ transfer news out of Tottenham, find out more here.

Rangers have the chance to make it three wins in a row under Gio van Bronckhorst as they prepare for Premiership action on Wednesday night.

The Gers travel away to play Hibernian in the top-flight, shortly after their 3-1 defeat to them in semi-final of the League Cup prior to the Dutch manager’s official arrival at Ibrox.

They have beaten Sparta Prague and Livingston in his first two games in charge, with the latter coming in the form of a 3-1 win on Sunday.

Time to shine

One change van Bronckhorst could make to the starting XI is unleashing central midfielder John Lundstram, who is yet to make his first appearance for the Dutchman.

The summer signing from Sheffield United has not hit the ground running in Scotland and has been unable to secure a regular place in the side. However, the arrival of van Bronckhorst offers him a clean slate and a chance to show what he is truly capable of at this level.

Therefore, it could now be his time to shine for the Gers. He can use the frustration of his season so far to motivate him further to put in an excellent display against Hibernian and help the ex-Feyenoord coach to win his third game in succession.

Last year, former Blades manager Chris Wilder claimed that he is ‘exemplary’ with his attitude off the pitch. 

He told The Sheffield Star: “The way he has been in the changing room when he hasn’t played has been exemplary. And then he comes back in and plays like he has.

“I think that’s a fantastic example of how you should be as a professional footballer.”

This shows that the £6.3m-rated beast has the mentality required to come in from the cold and be ready to perform, as Wilder pointed to his professionalism.

He has shown signs of promise in the Premiership this season, with a 91% pass completion rate over the course of the campaign. The midfielder has also won 56% of his duels, showing that he has the strength to go along with his impressive passing.

However, his goal contributions from midfield could be unlocked by van Bronckhorst. He managed five goals and three assists in the 2019/20 Premier League campaign for Sheffield United, but only has one goal contribution in 11 league matches for Rangers.

By unleashing him against Hibernian and showing faith in his ability, the 46-year-old coach could give Lundstram the confidence to show off his full potential as a Rangers player. This is why he should be offered the opportunity to start in central midfield.

AND in other news, Gio could unearth Goldson 2.0 in “superb” Rangers teen who is “going to be massive”…

According to Le10 Sport, there has been a West Ham United update on their bid to sign Reims striker Hugo Ekitike, with an improved offer apparently made.

The Lowdown: West Ham eye last minute striker swoops?

As reliable reported by ExWHUemployee, the Irons and David Moyes see the French market as a real pool of talent, with the club eager to potentially take advantage.

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This has led to links with the likes of Mohamed Bayo of Clermont Foot and Bamba Dieng of Marseille in this last week of the transfer window with recruitment chief Rob Newman fast running out of time to make moves.

In a fresh update, it appears that West Ham have set their sights on signing Ekitike before January 31 as news emerges of an offer.

The Latest: Hammers table bid for Ekitike…

According to Le10 Sport, the Hammers have tabled a €25m (£20.8m) bid, plus bonuses, to sign the 19-year-old wonderkid this month.

This is an improvement on their original offer of around €15m (£12.5m) to Reims, but despite their revised proposal, the Ligue 1 outfit have rebuffed West Ham’s newest approach.

It is believed that Reims think they can get even more money for Ekitike as the clock runs down on this transfer window.

The Verdict: Come back again?

As already confirmed by Reims’ sporting director Jean-Pierre Caillot, speaking to Le Quotidien du Sport (via Get French Football News), it could take a grand total of €40m (£33.3m) to actually sign Ekitike. The club chief told French media earlier this month that his club will demand ‘€30m (£25m) flat and €10m (£8.3m) achievable bonuses’ to sell the teenager before transfer deadline day.

Taking this into account, we believe that West Ham should move on, even despite Ekitike being called an ‘outstanding talent’ whilst drawing comparisons to Kylian Mbappe (Graeme Bailey via Twitter).

The teenager has no Premier League experience, and any fee over £30m for such a young prospect could prove to be a gamble.

In other news: ExWHUemployee: West Ham set for talks as they chase last minute agreement to sign ‘quality’ 25 y/o, find out more here.

Celtic have been linked with a summer move for Nimes Olympique ace Zinedine Ferhat, who is available for pre-contract agreements immediately.

The Lowdown: Ferhat profiled

Ferhat, an Algerian international, is primarily a right-midfielder but has already played as a centre-forward and a left winger this season in the French second tier.

The 28-year-old has made 311 club appearances during his career, contributing to a hugely impressive 111 goals.

He is out of contract at the end of June, meaning CEO Michael Nicholson can tie up a pre-contract agreement right now ahead of a summer move.

The Hoops were linked with Ferhat at the beginning of the year, and it seems as if they could still be keen despite making five January signings.

The Latest: Foot Mercato claim

Foot Mercato shared multiple transfer updates in a story on Wednesday evening, one of which was on Ferhat.

They claimed that Ligue 1 side Brest tried and failed to sign the Algerian last month. The report added that Ferhat decided to stay with Nimes until the end of the season when he will be able to negotiate with other clubs for a free move, with Celtic and Trabzonspor name-checked as possible destinations.

The Verdict: Needed?

Ange Postecoglou has reaped the rewards of bringing a versatile player to Parkhead in Reo Hatate, and who knows, Ferhat could be the next.

Ferhat has played in nine different positions during his career in defence, midfield and attack and is valued at £4.05m.

The Hoops wouldn’t have to pay a penny to Nimes either in a pre-contract agreement, so it could be wise to test the water with a contract offer.

He’s been described as a ‘very graceful’ player by journalist Adam White and could be handy under Postecoglou, who had limited attacking options from the bench last weekend against Dundee United.

In other news: Kieran Devlin drops scary Reo Hatate claim from sources close to Celtic dressing room. 

Sam Johnstone, Kyle Bartley and Karlan Grant all struggled in West Brom’s hugely disappointing 1-0 defeat away to Birmingham City.

The Baggies knew that only a win would suffice at St Andrew’s on Sunday afternoon as they desperately sought to stay in touch with those in the Championship play-off positions.

Instead, Steve Bruce’s side suffered another loss, as their season continues to go from bad to worse, with their March revival seemingly a thing of the past and a gap of eight points to make up on sixth-placed Blackburn with only seven matches remaining.

According to Sofascore, there were three players who stood out as West Brom’s worst on the day among those to have played at least 45 minutes of action.

Kyle Bartley – 6.5

Bartley was far from his best against Birmingham, not showing too much authority at the heart of the defence.

The centre-back lost possession 19 times overall, summing up the visitors’ sloppiness on the ball, and he had just a 66% pass completion rate. No key passes from Bartley also outlined a lack of quality in possession from the defender.

Sam Johnstone – 6.4

This wasn’t the best showing from the Baggies goalkeeper, who was unable to record a precious clean sheet.

The Englishman made only one save during the entire 90 minutes and just 10 of his 25 long balls were accurate, a rate of carelessness which arguably played a role in West Brom not controlling the game.

Johnstone also made no punches, high claims or key passes and gave away possession 15 times.

Karlan Grant – 6.4

Grant was hoping to add to his 14 Championship goals so far this season but that failed to materialise at St Andrew’s.

The 24-year-old managed just a solitary shot off target and none on target in what was an ineffective showing from start to finish, with possession lost eight times.

No key passes came Grant’s way and he also won just one out of his six duels overall as he floundered against Birmingham.

In other news, one team have sent scouts to watch one West Brom player. Find out who it is here.