Netherlands suffer defensive blow as Jurrien Timber ruled out of World Cup
The Netherlands have been hit with a major setback ahead of the FIFA World Cup after defender Jurrien Timber was ruled out of the tournament with a persistent groin injury.
Chelsea cruise into Europa Conference League final with composed win over Djurgarden
A much-rotated Blues side, featuring ten changes from the weekend win over Premier League champions Liverpool and including a first senior start for 16-year-old Reggie Walsh, barely broke stride at Stamford Bridge as they saw out a 1-0 second-leg win on Thursday night.
Enzo Maresca's men, already holding a comfortable 4-1 advantage from the first leg in Sweden, wrapped up the tie with a first-half strike from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. The midfielder calmly slotted home his fourth goal of the tournament after a slick through ball from 19-year-old Tyrique George.
Though Djurgarden's vocal travelling supporters gave the Swedish side a spirited backing throughout, there was little they could do to lift their side against an assured Chelsea display. Despite a handful of second-half saves required from goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen - including a sharp stop to deny Daniel Stensson - the Blues never looked in danger.
The match also provided a stage for several of Chelsea's highly-rated youngsters. Walsh, now the club's youngest debutant in nearly six decades, impressed in midfield, while fellow teenagers Shim Mheuka and Genesis Antwi were introduced in the second half to gain valuable minutes on the European stage.
Chelsea now turn their attention to the final in Wroclaw, Poland, on May 28, where they'll face Manuel Pellegrini's Real Betis. The Spanish side edged out Fiorentina 4-3 after extra time in the other semi-final.
It will mark the Blues' eighth major European final, and their first since lifting the Champions League trophy in 2021. For Maresca, it's a golden opportunity to deliver silverware in his debut season - and the first of the post-Abramovich era.
Before their European date with destiny, however, Chelsea have domestic business to attend to. With a Champions League place for next season still on the line, they'll travel to face top-four rivals Newcastle United this Sunday - where rested stars like Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo, and Nicolas Jackson are expected to return in a crucial clash.
Inter Milan confirm Curtis Jones interest as Liverpool midfielder weighs future options
Inter Milan have publicly confirmed their interest in Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones, with sporting director Piero Ausilio admitting the Serie A giants are closely monitoring the England international's situation at Anfield.
Éderson handed Brazil World Cup call-up after Wesley injury as Man Utd move nears
Brazil full-back Wesley has been ruled out of the World Cup because of a thigh injury, with Manchester United-bound midfielder Ederson called up to replace him.
"More prepared" Moises Caicedo 'excited' to lead Ecuador into upcoming World Cup
Moises Caicedo has said he feels "more prepared" ahead of his second FIFA World Cup appearance, as he prepares to lead Ecuador into the tournament with growing responsibility and confidence.