Frattesi salutes Inter fans: We were incompatible, but in those highsDavide Frattesi has written an unusual farewell note to Inter fans after his transfer to Lazio. Perhaps we werent compatible, we had ups and downs, but in those moments broke the sky in two.The midfielder has completed his move to Lazio, on loan for 5m with option to buy for a further 10m plus 50 per cent of the profit from a future sale.MUNICH, GERMANY APRIL 08: Davide Frattesi of FC Internazionale celebrates scoring his teams second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final First Leg match between FC Bayern Mnchen and FC Internazionale Milano at Fussball Arena Muenchen on April 08, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)He had been with the Nerazzurri since leaving Sassuolo in 2023, but despite some epic moments including decisive Champions League goals against Bayern Munich and Barcelona, the Italian never became a regular.There were ultimately 122 competitive appearances, with 15 goals and 12 assists, but only 36 of those were in the starting XI over three years.Frattesi had iconic Inter momentsepa12078784 FC Inters Davide Frattesi (R) celebrates scoring the 4-3 goal during the UEFA Champions League semifinal 2nd leg soccer match between Inter Milan and FC Barcelona, in Milan, Italy, 06 May 2025. EPA-EFE/ROBERTO BREGANIFrattesi wrote a message to the Inter fans that felt more like a relationship break-up, or at least a conscious decoupling.Its true perhaps we werent destined to stay together, perhaps we were incompatible. We had some highs and lows, but in those moments we broke the sky in two.It was the greatest honour of my life to play for you, and when I saw San Siro pushing us on I felt unbeatable.Unfortunately, something changed in my after that cursed final and its only right that Inter keep those who can still give 101 per cent.I loved you like brothers and sisters, I will always be your biggest fan. Davide.P.S. The yellow gate is mine, remember.View this post on InstagramA post shared by Davide Frattesi (@davidefrattesi_22)This was a reference, as shown in the pictures he posted, of when he scored the last-gasp 4-3 winner against Barcelona and climbed up the yellow gate to scream along with the fans.Frattesi was also referring to the cursed Champions League Final that Inter lost 5-0 to Paris Saint-Germain in 2025, their second lost final in three years.

Friendly: Manchester United vs. Milan official line-upsRuben Amorim faces his former club as Milan start Goncalo Ramos and Ruben Loftus-Cheek against Manchester United in their final pre-season friendly.It kicks off at the Tarczynski Arena in Wroclaw, Poland, at 15.45 UK time (16.45 CEST).This represents a reunion for Amorim, who was sacked by Manchester United in January.GLASGOW, SCOTLAND JULY 25: AC Milan Manager Ruben Amorim during the Celtic v AC Milan match in a pre-season friendly at Celtic Park on July 25, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)The Rossoneri have had a troubled pre-season so far, with largely disappointing performances including a 1-1 with Inter and 3-0 defeat to Chelsea.Following the tour of Australia and Indonesia, Amorim decided to cut certain players from his squad and put them on the market, including Christopher Nkunku, Fikayo Tomori, Youssouf Fofana and injured Santiago Gimenez.Also missing today are injured Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic and Matteo Gabbia, while Mike Maignan and Adrien Rabiot are still on vacation after the World Cup with France.Massive new signing Goncalo Ramos leads the attack with support from Ruben Loftus-Cheek and 19-year-old Alphadjo Ciss.Luka Modric is initially on the bench in favour of Ardon Jashari and Yunus Musah.PERTH, AUSTRALIA AUGUST 05: Goncalo Ramos of AC Milan celebrates with Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan after his goal during the pre-season match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Optus Stadium on August 05, 2026 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by James Worsfold/Getty Images)Manchester United are missing Manuel Ugarte, Mason Mount, Benjamin Sesko, Matthijs de Ligt and Tom Heaton.Matheus Cunha starts upfront, with ex-Serie A players Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes and Patrick Dorgu.Manchester United vs. Milan line-upsManchester United: Lammens; Mazraoui, Maguire, Heaven, Shaw; Tielemans, Andrey Santos; Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes, Dorgu; CunhaMilan: Torriani; Terracciano, De Winter, Pavlovic; Chukwueze, Jashari, Musah, Estupinan; Loftus-Cheek, Ciss; Ramos

Jonny Clayton claims second PDC World Series of Darts title with New Zealand crown originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Jonny Clayton produced a devastating display of finishing to defeat his fellow countryman Gerwyn Price 8-4 and clinch his maiden SkyCity New Zealand Darts Masters crown on Saturday.The Welshman celebrated his second World Series of Darts title with a trio of superb performances on Finals Day in Auckland, overcoming Gian van Veen, James Wade and Price to take the title in front of an incredible 5,000 fans at the Spark Arena.DARTS PLAYER MERCHANDISE AND COLLECTABLES AT OUR DARTSWORLD STORE!Clayton had succumbed to Price in the 2022 showpiece back in Hamilton, but this time he gained sweet revenge against his World Cup partner.The 51-year-old was irrepressible in the opening stages of Saturdays final, converting 72, 158, 80 and 62 checkouts to establish a commanding 5-1 cushion.Clayton then capitalised on some errant doubling from Price to stretch his lead to 7-1.Price mounted a three-leg flurry in response, but Clayton remained composed and sealed the deal with a magnificent 124 checkout on the bull to secure the trophy.It was great to play in the final with my World Cup partner, reflected Clayton, who had recovered from 4-2 down to edge past Haupai Puha on Friday.It just shows that two rugby boys can play darts, and to play against each other in the world of rugby here in New Zealand, Ive got a smile on my face.I really enjoyed that. Its 1-1 now, so next year winner takes all!Im looking forward to Wollongong next week. Hopefully the sun will shine on me and I can lift another trophy!Claytons path to the title began with an impressive 6-3 success against top seed Gian van Veen. He converted six of his seven attempts at double to cap off a clinical performance that underlined his finishing prowess from the outset of Finals Day.The world number five was similarly ruthless in his semi-final demolition of James Wade. Averaging just shy of 99 and pinning 70% of his attempts at double, Clayton completed a 7-2 thumping that left little doubt about his form heading into the final.Price, meanwhile, had swept aside Australian duo Damon Heta and Raymond Smith to book his place in a first World Series final of 2026, having earlier eased past Mark Cleaver in Fridays opening round.The former world champion showed glimpses of his quality but struggled with his doubles against the inspired Clayton.I wasnt great there. I missed a load of doubles, but take nothing away from Jonny he played brilliantly, conceded Price.For me, just to win one game this week was fantastic with everything Ive gone through.To get to a final is a big tap on my back, and Ill be even better next week in Australia.Earlier in the night, Raymond Smith prevailed in his all-Australian quarter-final against Adam Leek. Averaging almost 97 and converting 60% of his attempts at double, Smith capped off a polished display to reach the last four.MORE ELITE DARTS COVERAGE:Check Out Our Devoted PDC AreaThe evenings other quarter-final clash saw James Wade win through a topsy-turvy encounter against Josh Rock. Wade produced a 12-dart break at a crucial stage to seal his place in a second New Zealand Darts Masters semi-final, setting up the clash with Clayton that ultimately ended in a one-sided defeat.Claytons triumph marks a significant milestone in his World Series career. Having previously tasted success on the circuit, the Welshman now adds the SkyCity New Zealand Darts Masters to his collection after a near-faultless Finals Day.His clinical finishing, particularly those early checkouts that built an unassailable lead, proved the difference against a Price still finding his rhythm after a challenging period.With the next stop on the World Series calendar in Wollongong just around the corner, both Welsh stars will be looking to build on their Auckland performances.For Clayton, the smile was firmly in place as he lifted the trophy; for Price, the focus shifts to returning stronger in Australia.The Spark Arena crowd witnessed a high-quality final that showcased the depth of Welsh talent on the oche, with Clayton ultimately standing tall as the new New Zealand Darts Masters champion.For the full stories and more in depth coverage of everything darts, together with the latest issues of their legendary publications, head on over todartsworld.com

Panthers digging deep into OL depth chart during preseason originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.CHARLOTTE, N.C. The Carolina Panthers need extra help.With their top two offensive tackles out for the start of the 2026 NFL regular season and both starting guards hobbled throughout the opening three weeks of training camp, Bryce Young could be fronted by at least four different linemen when the fourth-year quarterback opens Saturday's preseason matchup against the host Buffalo Bills.Young did not sound concerned, pointing to the reserves' role during the 33-30 Hall of Fame Game victory Aug. 6. With third- and fourth-stringers fueling the comeback, undrafted free agent quarterback Haynes King, benefitting from key blocks by backup center Nick Samac, scored the game-winning touchdown as time expired in Canton, Ohio."The culture in that room as been strong ever since I've been here," Young said after Sunday's practice. "Over the years, there's been so much shuffling ... guys knowing it's next man up. People have to step up."Like Samac.Panthers overcoming injuries to top offensive linemenThe second-year undrafted free agent executed fourth-quarter blocks on Miles Davis' 36-yard run and Haynes' 26-yard scamper. Serving as a C3, Samac also helped maintain a clean pocket. He also spent time cross-training at guard during recent practices at the fields behind Bank of America Stadium.The extra work was needed with top tackles Taylor Moton (blood clots) and Ikem Ekwonu (knee) sidelined indefinitely and guards Robert Hunt (back) and Damien Lewis (calf) missing time during training camp."We've asked him to learn multiple spots," Canales said. "He's taken that challenge. He's taken that challenge on really well and I love what he's doing at center."But, as we all know, the more that you can do across the board gives you a better chance to make the team."MORE:2026 NFL Draft: Panthers' first-round pick Monroe Freeling makes introductionsAlong with Samac, the third team was comprised mostly of tackles Stone Forsythe and Albert Reese and guards Isaia Glass and Joshua Gray during Wednesday's practice.After the starting offensive unit engineers between 10-20 plays Saturday during the grand opening of the Bills' new $2.2 billion Highmark Stadium, the reserves are expected to play most of the snaps."I'm proud of that group going in there (Aug. 6), just a mixed group of guys, being able to finish the game," Canales said. "It was great to see our guys sustain those drives."Can they show more against the Bills?More NFL NewsPanthers' Devin Lloyd wants to be NFL Hall of Famer, next Luke KuechlyPanthers QB3 Haynes King's walk-off TD triggers roster spot, $3.1M salaryJa'Tavion Sanders, Panthers' tight ends seek more productionPanthers' Bryce Young buries defense during NFL training camp practiceNewcomer Cam Gill in game-shape for first Panthers practice in pads

Week 1 of the 2026 NFL preseason resumes Saturday with the Carolina Panthers traveling to Highmark Stadium to take on the Buffalo Bills.\n Here's what you need to know about how to watch the Bills vs. the Panthers,today's matchup,theNFL Week 1 preseason schedule,TV lineup and more.\n What time does Carolina Panthers-Buffalo Bills game start today, Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026? When is Bills-Panthers NFL football game tonight?\n The Carolina Panthers and Buffalo Bills will play at 1 p.m. ET Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026.\n Watch the NFL with Fubo\n What channel is Buffalo Bills vs Carolina Panthers game on TV today, Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026? How to watch NFL preseason Week 1 football game tonight live\n The Carolina Panthers and Buffalo Bills will air locally at 1 p.m. ET Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026.\n How to watch Bills vs. Panthers: New York TV channel\n Here is where to watch the Carolina Panthers and Buffalo Bills game locally, according to buffalobills.com:\n WIVB CBS4(Buffalo)WTEN ABC10(Albany)WETM NBC18(Elmira)WROC CBS8(Rochester)WSYR ABC9(Syracuse)WFXV FOX33(Utica)WWTI ABC50(Watertown)\n How to watch Panthers at Bills: Georgia TV channel\n Here is where to watch the Carolina Panthers and Buffalo Bills on thePanthers Television Network, according topanthers.com:\n WJBF ABC6(Augusta)WJCL ABC22(Savannah)\n How to watch Panthers at Bills: North Carolina TV channel\n Here is where to watch the Carolina Panthers and Buffalo Bills on thePanthers Television Network, according topanthers.com:\n WSOC ABC9(Charlotte)WITN NBC7(Greenville/New Bern)WXII NBC12(Greensboro)WRAL NBC5(Raleigh/Durham)WRAZ FOX50(Raleigh/Durham)WWAY ABC3(Wilmington)\n How to watch Panthers at Bills: South Carolina TV channel\n Here is where to watch the Carolina Panthers and Buffalo Bills on thePanthers Television Network, according topanthers.com:\n WCSC CBS5(Charleston)WLTX CBS19(Columbia)WHNS FOX21(Greenville/Spartanburg)WFXB FOX43(Florence/Myrtle Beach)\n How to watch Panthers at Bills: Virginia TV channel\n Here is where to watch the Carolina Panthers and Buffalo Bills on thePanthers Television Network, according topanthers.com:\n WRLH FOX35 (Richmond)WDBJ CBS7(Roanoke/Lynchburg)WZBJ TV24(Roanoke/Lynchburg)WVEC ABC13(Tidewater/Outer Banks, N.C.)\n Catch the NFL on Fubo\n How to stream Bills vs Panthers NFL football game today, Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026. Where to watch Panthers-Bills NFL preseason Week 1 game tonight\n The Carolina Panthers and Buffalo Bills will stream on NFL+ at 1 p.m. ET Saturday, Aug. 15. Fans can download NFL+ in theApple App Storeor onGoogle Play.\n Watch the NFL with a Fubo free trial\n 2026 Buffalo Bills preseason schedule\n \n 2025 Buffalo Bills record\n Buffalo Bills: 12-5\n 2026 Carolina Panthers preseason schedule\n \n 2025 Carolina Panthers record\n Carolina Panthers: 8-9\n Unable to view our graphics?Click here to see them.\n 2026 NFL team schedules: Complete team-by-team NFL schedule of games\n AFC East:Buffalo Bills Schedule |Miami Dolphins Schedule|New England Patriots Schedule| New York Jets ScheduleAFC North:Baltimore Ravens Schedule|Cincinnati Bengals Schedule|Cleveland Browns Schedule|Pittsburgh Steelers ScheduleAFC South:Houston Texans Schedule|Indianapolis Colts Schedule|Jacksonville Jaguars Schedule|Tennessee Titans ScheduleAFC West:Denver Broncos Schedule|Kansas City Chiefs Schedule|Los Angeles Chargers Schedule|Las Vegas Raiders ScheduleNFC East:Dallas Cowboys Schedule|New York Giants Schedule|Philadelphia Eagles Schedule|Washington Commanders ScheduleNFC North:Chicago Bears Schedule|Detroit Lions Schedule|Green Bay Packers Schedule |Minnesota Vikings ScheduleNFC South:Atlanta Falcons Schedule|Carolina Panthers Schedule|New Orleans Saints Schedule| Tampa Bay Buccaneers ScheduleNFC West:Arizona Cardinals Schedule|Los Angeles Rams Schedule|San Francisco 49ers Schedule|Seattle Seahawks Schedule\n 2026 NFL preseason games today: TV schedule tonight for every team's NFL game, channel lineup tonight\n \n Chris Simsis a trending reporter at Midwest Connect Gannett. Follow him on Twitter:@ChrisFSims.\n This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: What channel is Bills vs Panthers game today? Time, how to watch live, stream

Keown thinks Arsenal has a replacement for Saliba in-house alreadyArsenal have been linked with moves for players such as Jarell Quansah and Ezri Konsa this window as the Gunners look to sign a centre-back with William Saliba expected to miss the start of the season.The Frenchman is set to spend some time recovering from a long-term back problem that has bothered him over the last few months. It made him miss Frances final game at the 2026 World Cup, and it was during that competition that the defender aggravated the problem.Arsenal still consider him one of their top players, and the Gunners are happy to have him in their squad, but his absence weakens them, and they could look to sign a replacement.Keown Backs Arsenal Academy OptionsHowever, Martin Keown is not convinced that they need to sign someone new and has identified players who could step up. The Gunners have some very good players in their squad, and Keown believes a replacement for Saliba could be among them.Marli Salmon looked really good in the friendly game against Como; hes progressing nicely, Keown exclusively told Football London.Mosquera for me also looked really sharp in that match. I dont think theres a necessity to buy a central defender, I think thats an area they can cope with.Keowns comments suggest Arsenal already have options within the squad who could help them cope with Salibas absence. Their performances in pre-season have given the former defender confidence that the club can manage without immediately bringing in another centre-back.Arsenal Have Defensive OptionsIm hearing that they are being linked with various central defenders, so maybe they want to strengthen in that area [but] defending-wise, [Riccardo] Calafiori can also pop into there, [Piero] Hincapie can do that. All left-footed. So that area looks particularly strong for Arsenal.Arsenal therefore have several options available to them as they consider how best to deal with Salibas absence. The club could still decide to strengthen, but Keown believes their existing defensive options are strong enough to cope.The Gunners will have to assess their squad carefully before making a decision, particularly with Saliba expected to miss the beginning of the campaign. Their academy players could provide an opportunity to address the issue without necessarily making another signing._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow.You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, dont hesitate to get in touch with us through this linkMore Stories / Latest NewsKeown thinks Arsenal has a replacement for Saliba in-house already 15 August 2026, 15:00He has made all of us better Arteta pays tribute to Guardiola 15 August 2026, 14:00What Jarell Quansah thinks about joining Arsenal this summer 15 August 2026, 13:00

After a productive and, by some measures, quiet offseason, the Dallas Cowboys get a first look at how much their defense has improved when they open the preseason against the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks.\nExactly how much Dallas will reveal is unknown, as coach Brian Schottenheimer said he won't play any starters, though he later indicated top pick Caleb Downs, certainly a projected starter at this point, could play. The same goes for the other first-round pick, Malachi Lawrence.\nMore: Dallas Cowboys poll of polls. How does Dallas rank this preseason?\n\nAmidst all the personnel uncertainty that comes with a preseason opener where both teams have priorities other than winning, Seattle comes in as a 2 1/2-point favorite.\nWhat time do the Dallas Cowboys play today?\nThe Dallas Cowboys kickoff at the Seattle Seahawks at 6 p.m. MT/7 p.m. CT on Saturday, Aug. 15 on the NFL Network.\nWhat channel is the Dallas Cowboys game on today?\nThe Dallas Cowboys at Seattle Seahawks preseason opener will be televised on the NFL Network. Kickoff is at 6 p.m. MT/7 p.m. CT.\nMore: Looking to subscribe to FUBO? Click here for more info\nWill Dak Prescott play for Dallas against the Seattle Seahawks?\nDallas Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer said no Cowboys starters will play against Seattle. Dallas will play Sam Howell and Joe Milton III at quarterback as they sort out who their QB2 is.\nWill Caleb Downs play for Dallas against the Seattle Seahawks?\nTop pick Caleb Downs and other top draft pick Malachi Lawrence will likely play against Seattle, Schottenheimer said.\n"We're still working through the rotations of who's going to play," Schottenheimer said. "I think at some point they'll both play a little bit of football. We're working through that now. I would expect you probably see both of them play a little bit."\nDallas Cowboys record\nThis is the preseason opener for the Dallas Cowboys, who went 7-9-1 last year in the regular season.\nMore: Dallas Cowboys worth $15.5B, remain most valuable team in sports\nSeattle Seahawks record\nThis is the preseason opener for the Seattle Seahawks, who went 13-3 last year in the regular season and went on to win the Super Bowl.\nCowboys at Seahawks odds\nFrom BetMGM.com\nCowboys +2 1/2. Seattle -2 1/2. Over-under 39 1/2. Dallas is +120 on the money line, Seattle is -145\nBret Bloomquist can be reached at bbloomquist@elpasotimes.com; @Bretbloomquist on X\nThis article originally appeared on El Paso Times: What channel is the Cowboys game on today? How to watch vs. Seahawks

With the 2026 men's World Cup dominating the summer, plenty of Premier League stars took center stage for their countries and dazzled. But which of them will dominate the Premier League during the 2026-27 season? Below we take a look at the 10 World Cup stars who are set to light up the Premier League. 10. Pedro PorroWon the World Cup with Spain and was excellent throughout at right back. He will deliver goals and assists for Spurs and Roberto De Zerbi will bring out the best in the marauding full back. Porro has finally found the right system and manager for his strengths. 9. Elliot AndersonGot his big move to Man City from Nottingham Forest and he will run the show under Enzo Maresca. Few players win the ball back and read the game as well as Anderson, and he was influential in England's third-place finish. The heartbeat of any team he plays in. 8. Martin OdegaardAfter a tough season of injuries and dips in form for Arsenal, Odegaard was back to his very best during the World Cup as he was key in Norway's magical run. Will be energized and has to scrap for his spot at Arsenal after a big signing with Bruno Guimaraes coming in. 7. Florian WirtzGermany bowed out early which means most people forget how good Wirtz was at the World Cup. Couple that with his impressive displays for Liverpool in preseason and he's set to kick on in his second season in the Premier League. Wirtz will play as the No. 10 for Andoni Iraola and with the high-pressing tactics he looks set to get on the ball much more in the final third. 6. Youri TielemansLed Belgium to the last eight and drove them on with some big moments at the World Cup. Then he got his dream move from Aston Villa to Manchester United. Tielemans is exactly the kind of character who will thrive at United and does all of the dirty things well and pops up with big goals from midfield. 5. Bukayo SakaHad an injury managed throughout the tournament and was such a shame he didn't play in England's semifinal defeat against Argentina. His assist against Mexico, plus his hat trick in the third-place game against France and cameos off the bench, showcased what we all know he is capable of. Will be Arsenal's main man in attack once again. 4. Lisandro MartinezAfter an injury-hit time with Man United, there's no doubting Martinez's importance. The no-nonsense center back was influential in Argentina reaching the final and having to come off with a small injury in that game was a big blow. Will lead United's defense as their comeback continues. 3. Bruno GuimaraesHad four assists for Brazil during the World Cup with only Michael Olise having more at the tournament. His big move from Newcastle United to Arsenal feels perfect. Guimaraes will add extra hunger to Arsenal and he's a leader. His $101 million arrival is a huge statement from Arsenal. 2. Declan RiceArsenal and England just aren't the same when Rice isn't fully-fit and rampaging around. He had a really good World Cup, even as he was managing illness and injury at different parts of it. Arsenal rely heavily on Rice to set the tone for the press and to dictate the tempo of the game. His form and fitness will be crucial if they're going to win back-to-back titles. 1. Erling Haaland Of course he had to be top of our list, right? Haaland scored seven goals at the World Cup and became an even bigger global sensation on and off the pitch as Norway made it to the quarterfinals. We know he is a goal machine and Enzo Maresca's tactics should see City create plenty of chances on the counter which Haaland will be waiting to finish off. Another 30-goal season is coming up. And plenty more social media shenanigans.

Report Inter Set to Offload Unsettled Midfielder to LazioInter outcast Davide Frattesi is reportedly on the verge of joining Lazio on a season-long loan. According to Calciomercato, the Italian midfielder is set to sign for the Biancocelesti after the Lega Serie A unblocked his move to the Stadio Olimpico.Frattesi has been on the fringes at the Giuseppe Meazza over the last two years. However, Inter refused to let him join Atletico Madrid last summer as Cristian Chivu vowed to help the former Sassuolo man reignite his career in Lombardy.Chivu failed to live up to his pre-season promise, handing the 26-year-old just three Serie A starts in 2025/26. Tired of playing second fiddle to Nicolo Barella, Frattesi requested the transfer at the end of last season, and Inter are about to grant his wish.Roma and Juventus had been keen on Frattesi, but the player is now one step away from joining Lazio.Our take on Inter, Lazio & FrattesiFrattesis contract at Meazza runs out next summer. Therefore, time is not on Inters side, as they must find a way to cash in on their unsettled star quickly. Allowing him to move to Lazio on loan will reportedly pour around 5 million into the clubs coffers.Moreover, the Biancocelesti have included a 10m buyout option and a 50% sell-on clause to sweeten the deal. With Frattesi out of the picture, Inter can now rekindle their pursuit of Liverpool ace Curtis Jones.Jones was close to joining the Nerazzurri in January, but the Reds pulled the plug on the deal at the 11th hour. However, the Serie A champions could soon reopen talks with the Anfield giants.

'Used his opportunity': India coach praises Devdutt Padikkal after historic maiden Test century vs Sri Lanka at Galle originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.KEY TAKEAWAYS:India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak praised Devdutt Padikkal's maiden Test century vs Sri Lanka in Galle.Kotak said the left-hander had used his opportunity after waiting for a chance.Padikkal scored the hundred at number three against Sri Lanka on Day 1.India coach praises Devdutt Padikkal after historic maiden Test century vs Sri Lanka at GalleWhen India came to bat first during the first Test match against Sri Lanka at Galle, many people were unsure of how the Men in Blue would perform. Skipper Shubman Gill was recovering from an injury sustained during the practice match last week, while Sai Sudarshan was ruled out earlier due to injury.Instead of the GT star, it was RCB batter Devdutt Padikkal who came to open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, and over two partnerships took India to a sizeable total of 288/2 on Day 1. In the process, he also scored his maiden Test century in a blistering manner, anchoring the Indian innings.So good was his performance that India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has heaped praise on him after the left-hander marked his return to the Test side. The coach highlighted how the youngster had seized his moment after a long wait.His composed hundred on the crucial number three spot steadied India and staked a strong claim to a position the team has long struggled to settle. It was a significant moment for the 25-year-old, who had last featured in the Test side against Australia in November 2024. Having bided his time and worked on his game behind the scenes, Padikkal delivered when the opportunity finally arrived.MORE:KL Rahul injury update: India opener leaves pitch retired hurt after TeaSitanshu Kotak hails Devdutt Padikkal's maiden Test centuryKotak was delighted for Padikkal, noting how the batter's patience and preparation had paid off. He pointed to the work the left-hander had put in even during their time together away from the international setup. "I am happy for Devdutt Padikkal. He was waiting for his opportunity, and he has used his opportunity," Kotak said.The batting coach continued, "Preparation overall, the way he was preparing, even when I was at the NCA. We got some good time at nets to prepare here." Kotakalso explained what he was looking for from India's new-ball batters in these testing subcontinental conditions. He stressed the importance of adaptability against a spin-heavy Sri Lankan attack."They all are new ball batters. Sai and Devdutt. Mainly I would look at how they are adapting to conditions and how they are dealing with situations. How they bat at different phases. I am happy about it," Kotak added.MORE:'Devdutt Padikkal is God sent': India star hailed for dominating SL spinnersWhy does Padikkal's hundred ease a long-standing worry for India?The number three position has been India's most stubborn problem since Cheteshwar Pujara played the last of his 103 Tests in 2023. With him gone after the 2023 WTC Final, India has tried a succession of names and discarded them in the three years since.Pujara's ability to bat time and blunt the new ball was never adequately replaced, and Padikkal's assured hundred offers the first real sign that the role may finally be in dependable hands. What makes the innings even more compelling is the context around it. Padikkal came in with Sai Sudharsan ruled out, and KL Rahul later hobbled by cramps.Yet he never looked hurried against Prabath Jayasuriya and the Sri Lankan spinners. If India resists their habit of reshuffling the order at the first setback, this could be the innings that finally ends their search at first drop.For all the latest cricket news, opinion, and commentary and to share your voice, head to ourFacebook,Instagram,andX (Twitter)pages