#Gunnar Henderson imagine

[stephstars08]

Even though baseball season is over for the Orioles I am officially going to say that I will to write for Adley Rutschman and Gunnar Henderson since I have gotten multiple people saying they want me to! I was going to wait till when baseball returns but I don’t want to wait that long and have you all wait that long so I will start working on the Adley one shot I have mentioned!! I haven’t gotten any ideas for Gunnar yet but when I do I will get to writing it!!!

[lukeevangelista]

Just Kiss Me - Gunnar Henderson

I love him.

*********************************************************

“You’re my friend, but… sometimes I wish you were more than that.” You whispered from beside him.

You two had just had a long talk about your, now, ex, leading you two to a totally different conversation.

“We’re not just friends..” Gunnar said as he scooted closer, his hand tilting your chin to to look him in the eyes, “You know that. We never have been.” He ran his hand through your hair, “There’s always been something there between us, Y/N and you know it.” He continued, “I don’t want to be ‘just friends’ anymore. I can’t be just friends with you.” He murmured, “It’s too hard watching you be with other people and not give me a second look.”

“Are you.. jealous?”

“I am.” He admitted confidently, “I’m not going to hide it- I am. Very much so.”

“There’s no need to hide it.” You said as your eyes gazed into his, “We’ve always been honest with each other, not sure why we were never honest about this too.”

He grinned as his head got a little closer, his breath fanning across your lips.

Your lips closed the space between you two as you felt his hand grip the back of your neck, his other hand snaking around your waist to pull you closer to him.

You both pulled away breathless, “I’ve been waiting for you to do that.” You chuckled as your cheeks flushed.

“Wanted to for a while, darling,” he admitted, “just never could.”

You watched as he laid back on the couch, patting the empty spot next to him.

“You gonna join me or are you going to just stare at me?” He raised an eyebrow at you as you crawled over to him, your back against the cushion, his arm draped around you and your legs tangled together.

You felt his fingers twirling the ends of your hair, your arm tightening around his torso.

“I’ve waiting for this moment for so long.”

“We’ve cuddled before, G.” You laughed.

“But not as something potentially more than just friends, Y/N.” He said as you sucked a breath in, “I told you, I don’t want to be just friends with you.” He said as he pressed a kiss to the top of your head.

Part of what you didn’t tell Gunnar was; the main reason you and your ex broke up was because of Gunnar.

Had you of told him in the past, Gunnar would have made the choice for you and stepped back.

That was something you weren’t going to let happen.

So when you told your ex you weren’t cutting Gunnar off, he made the decision to end it with you, which you weren’t mad about. You were unhappy with him anyway; especially when a certain blonde, blue eyed boy had your heart.

“I don’t want to be just friends with you either.” You admitted quietly once your felt his breathing even out, signaling he had fallen asleep.

***

At some point, you had fallen asleep as well, but was woken up by Gunnar slipping out from under you.

“What are you doing?” You asked as you watched Gunnar stand up just as thunder cracked through the air. He walked to the front door, hearing the rain pounding on the roof before his eyes darted to yours.

“I don’t think you should leave..” he stated.

“I need to go home, Gunnar.” You said as another clap of thunder echoed through the sky, lightening not far behind it.

“As much as you want to go home,” he let out a joking sigh, “It’s dark outside,” Gunnar pointed out, “and it’s storming,” he continued, “and my arms are much safer than the road conditions right now.” He softly grinned, “Maybe you could stay? Just for tonight?”

“Just for tonight, Henderson.” You rolled your eyes at the blonde, who’s smile just got bigger as you walked towards him.

“Yeah- okay sure.” He said as he tightly wrapped his arms around you, your head buried in his chest, “I think you should stay right here forever.”

“I would love nothing more.” You admitted.

You two stood there in silence in front of the door as the rain beat against the roof.

“I heard you.” Gunnar admitted as his head rested on top of yours, “By the way.”

His 6’3 frame was slightly swaying back and forth with you still wrapped tightly in his arms.

“What?” You asked as you pulled back.

“I heard what you said- when you thought I was asleep.”

His eyes were bearing down into yours as he licked his lips, “I want to hear you say it again.”

“Gunnar..”

“Y/N.” He wrapped his arms around your waist tighter, “I want-“

“I want to be more than just friends with you.” You rushed out, knowing he wasn’t going to drop it.

Gunnar was a great person, but he had his flaws. One of them being he was persistent and got what he wanted. At least most of the time.

“God, that sounds so..” he sucked in a deep breath, “I’ve waited so long for you to say that.”

“You’ve said that a couple of times.” You chuckled.

“I meant it every time I said it.” He said as he dipped his head, his hand coming to the back of your neck as his lips were planted on yours, “Every word and every time.”

“Just kiss me, G.”

[cherrydolyshirt]

We Watch Wrestling _ The Video Garage Saturday Black Shirt

The realization that the very panties that started all this We Watch Wrestling _ The Video Garage Saturday Black Shirt began to get wet on me now led me to ecstasy. I enjoyed every step, imagining in my head how the lace on my bottom disappears in water. They would still get wet on me today anyway, only now they do it under my jeans.I don’t know when my jeans completely disappeared under the water. The T-shirt was not tucked in and therefore hid the top of the jeans. At some point, I just realized that the water reaches the navel. The feeling of a soaked T-shirt were familiar from childhood, it just stuck to my body and was almost not felt.

Buy It Now:      We Watch Wrestling _ The Video Garage Saturday Black Shirt

Gunnar Henderson Baltimore Big Time Shirt

Foo Fighters 1994 2024 Thank You For The Memories 30th Annivesary T Shirt

Ntt Indycar Series Dixon Hull ’24 Tee Unisex T Shirt

Newborn & Infant Chad & Jake Black Abilene Christian University Wildcats Mascot Logo Shirt

Washington Commanders The NFL ASL Collection by Love Sign Tri Blend T Shirt

Felt, be it ornaments, or garland, recycling a pretty something for the Sierra Ferrell Shoot For The Moon Tour 2024 Limited Edition Poster T Shirt , ( say you like some sort of wrapping paper and you’re good at origami ) lots and lots of pillows and DIY, type of decorations. I think now for the time being that glamour is out. People that can afford it, velvet instead of felt, nothing too fancy though. Buffalo checks, red or black is going to be big again. This year will be more family focus. Think farmhouse or a house out in the country. Maybe celebrating your own heritage, with that special Christmas ornament or decoration that was passed down on to you, or buying that item that reminded you of happier times. Like your mother’s ceramic tree that she made. That’s what I think that this Christmas trend in decorating will be.

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[shanroeform]

Leave Her to Brew: an Early Analysis of the 2021 Champion Chase

Around this time a few years ago I was on Koh Phangan, a Thai island famous for its Full Moon Parties. During one of the hazy nights I spent on the island, I was approached by a promoter advertising a Muay Thai tournament that he promised would be a spectacular display of combat between world-class performers, all accompanied by free drinks. As any western tourist with no experience of these kind of things, a love of sport and the smell of several Sangsoms on their breath would, I accepted without a second thought. 

What followed can only be described as the most compelling lawsuit for false advertisement the courts of Thailand will ever see. In truth, I should have been suspicious when I looked around the venue and saw no locals, no TV cameras, not even a big screen. Somehow, this world-class event had evaded the attention of the Muay Thai hardcore and instead attracted a crowd consisting solely of Brits, Irish and Australians, all of whom had just stumbled back from an all-day boat party and somehow managed to remember the sporting spectacle that was due to be held in their honour.

The faces in the audience were, unbelievably, nothing in comparison to those in the ring. Despite my promoter friend’s earnest promises of the most deadly Muay Thai operators in this part of the world, the only local taking part had a severe limp and had clearly fallen out of love with the game (imagine an 18-year-old Cue Card being forced to carry top weight in a Southwell handicap).

The rest of the competition was made up of other Brits, Irish and Australians who were in an even worse state than their watching friends; they looked as though they had been on yesterday’s boat party and had not gone to bed since. One of these intrepid fighters ended up winning by default, with the local hero forced to withdraw injured (although he was still more than capable of winning with his hands tied behind his back) and the other tourists practically knocking themselves out. 

Watching the Champion Chase earlier this year, I was forcibly reminded of this ignominious evening. We had been promised the greatest Queen Mother in years - Altior, the two-time champion and four-time Festival winner, would defend his crown against the unbeaten* great Irish hope Chacun Pour Soi and a Defi Du Seuil who had swept all before him so far that season.  As I saw first Altior and then Chacun Pour Soi drop out of the race, before Defi Du Seuil slipped further and further back in running, the smell of cheap vodka and vomit rose unbidden in my nose and dragged me back to the disappointment of that Koh Phangan night.

It’s not that I didn’t enjoy seeing Politologue win - like the “Muay Thai” I ended up watching, it was a thoroughly entertaining spectacle once you accepted it for what it was and I’m very glad I saw it. However, the race was simply not what I had built myself up for and it is hard to accept compensation in place of a once in a lifetime experience (just ask any of the dopes who paid over $1000 to see Blink-182 at Fyre Festival).

I came into this National Hunt season hoping that the 2021 Champion Chase would make up for last year’s non-event. Our opening act began this weekend with the 2020 Arkle winner Put The Kettle On taking on Defi Du Seuil in the Shloer Chase, to be followed by Altior’s return in next month’s Tingle Creek and Chacun Pour Soi’s reappearance on the other side of the Irish Sea (he is entered in the John Durkan at the start of December, but the Paddy’s Rewards Club Chase over two miles on 27 December seems more likely). Unfortunately, whilst we were treated to a thrilling performance by Put The Kettle On, our starter was marred by the sight of Defi Du Seuil being pulled up before the last.

This disappointing showing from the Phillip Hobbs horse prompts an early re-think of the 2021 Champion Chase (the bright side of this being that at least, instead of being crushed all in one go by disappointment of the eve of the race, we can accept its slow suffocation throughout the season and make arrangements accordingly). Thankfully, Defi Du Seuil is reportedly OK after his failure to complete - however, after the second worrying run in succession for the former Triumph Hurdle winner, there may now be concerns as to whether he will even run in the two mile showpiece next year, let alone threaten to win it. 

That the gelding is showing signs of potential wear and tear may not be too surprising given that, for a seven-year-old, he is fairly heavily raced. Having started his career aged just three in France, the son of Voix Du Nord has now had 22 runs in under five years. To put this into context, Altior, at ten, has raced just twice more than Defi Du Seuil, and Chacun Pour Soi has seen a racecourse only eight times despite being a year older than his compatriot. Like the kid at your school who was given his first beer before he started his GCSEs, Defi Du Seuil peaked early and may now forever be chasing his glory days.

It is not just the volume of racing which has left its mark on the French bred, but also the intensity of his efforts. Since Defi’s juvenile season, he has not finished further than 3.5 lengths ahead of second place in any of his 6 victories and has also been beaten by less than 4.5 lengths on two occasions. We all remember the McManus horse’s titanic clashes with Un De Sceaux last season, both run on ground as fit for a war reenactment as for a horse race, as well as his trilogy with Lostintranslation in his novice campaign. As fans we love these sort of races, but they scar horses - Kell Brook may have claimed he was better than ever going into his fight with Terence Crawford on Saturday night, but, after having both eye sockets shattered on previous occasions, it transpired that such comments didn’t defend him against being knocked out.

Defi Du Seuil’s time at the top of the two mile division may therefore be dwindling to an end. This is not an unfamiliar pattern amongst top class French-bred two mile chasers: Master Minded ran his last race aged eight and Douvan has raced just five times since turning seven in 2017. Whether he still has enough left to make the 2021 Champion Chase a spectacle is questionable, even aside from valid questions about whether he was ever good enough to threaten Altior - is beating a 12-year-old Un De Sceaux by under three lengths a strong enough piece of form to justify the challenge?

Fans of JP McManus’ gelding could take comfort in Defi Du Seuil’s poor re-appearance record. He has lost first time out in two of the previous three seasons, including finishing dead last in a November Grade Two over two miles in his novice chase season before going on to win the then-JLT. Phillip Hobbs is also in poor form, having had just two winners from 35 runners in the 14 days preceding Defi’s return on Saturday. If you want to find it, there is evidence to convince yourself that he retains the ability to win the Champion Chase come March. Just remember, if you do, that some people manage to persuade themselves that the world is flat, the American election was rigged and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is a good football manager.

There is not much more to write about Chacun Pour Soi since my preview of last season’s Champion Chase which, strangely, weakens any early case against him winning the 2021 edition further. Willie Mullins’ hope did not show up to Cheltenham in March and appears to be somewhat fragile - whilst he only suffered a stone bruise and would likely have raced at Punchestown, the fact remains that Chacun Pour Soi has now run just four times since arriving at Closutton in December 2016. Indeed, at the moment, I would rather bet that the eight-year-old won’t run in the Champion Chase than I would on him winning the thing. Douvan is my favourite horse of all time and I have simply been hurt too much to be sucked in by his successor. Chacun will have to make a bigger romantic gesture than Justin Timberlake’s flash mob in Friends With Benefits to get me on side. 

Chacun’s absence in March also leaves the question of how he will handle the Festival to fester for another year. He has never run at Prestbury Park and we’re left to ponder whether he will deal with the stiff track and the extreme undulations, let alone the unique atmosphere, after only four runs under the care of Mullins. This could be picking at hairs in light of his win at the Dublin Racing (on a stiff enough track at Leopardstown) and Punchestown (which does undulate) Festivals. However, for a horse whose record doesn’t inspire confidence that he will turn up at all, a best price of 9/2 is short enough for an unproven Cheltenham racer who could plausibly disagree with the Festival on the day.

If you believe Nicky Henderson, he has “never seen [Altior] move better” (RacingTV Stable Tour). We have heard similar rhetoric from the six-time champion trainer throughout Altior’s career, but there comes a point where this simply stops being true. Patricia Pugh’s horse will be 11 by the time the Champion Chase is run and you have to question whether he retains his full powers.

The last 11-year-old winner of the race was Moscow Flyer in 2005 and, to find the only other horse old enough to start secondary school to have won the Champion Chase, you have to go back to 1976 and Skymas. Now listen, I love mocking the #trendslads as much as anyone and if I’ve ever seen a horse to laugh at this stat it is Altior - he has embarrassed me in front of my family too many times not to hesitate here and he did sprint away from Sceau Royal in rather familiar style last time out at Newbury.

However, at this stage of his career, it is valid to question whether Altior is capable of repeating his Festival heroics for a fifth time. Pugh’s horse showed the first cracks of fragility last season, losing his unbeaten record to Cyrname in a race which Henderson described as “unavoidable” and which I call “utterly stupid from both Nicky and Paul to go life and death in the trenches in November”. He was then absent until February, missing an (allegedly) intended appointment over three miles on Boxing Day, before pulling a sickie on the eve of the Festival. This was the first time in five seasons that Altior had missed Cheltenham and, in his advancing age, it would not be too difficult to foresee this once again. 

Aside from the above, Altior’s winning margin in the 2019 Champion Chase was just 1.75 lengths - rumour has it that the Star Sports betting stand is still stained from the excited mess which Ben made as they came over the last, his dream of getting Henderson’s horse beaten finally within touching distance. In comparison, Altior’s previous Festival wins were by seven, six and seven lengths and Politologue had never gotten within breathing distance of the High Chaparral gelding. If you consider these potentially waning powers alongside Altior’s age and apparent increasing susceptibility to injury, not to mention Cyrname’s revelation that he can in fact be beaten, a case can be made for vulnerability at best and a non-appearance at worst. 

In my preview of last season’s Champion Chase, I compared the race to the Expendables film franchise - with trailers full of superstars and an end product that Adam Sandler may as well have acted in. Well, we’re now back for the third edition, which unfortunately received the worst reviews yet: as Rolling Stone said in its one-star write-up, “The Expendables 3, trading on our affection for action stars of the past, has officially worn out its already shaky welcome”. In short, a Champion Chase which at first glance looks so full of dependable quality could, in similar fashion, very well fall apart once more - whether this is in the months building up to it or on the day itself.

Could this leave the race open for good old Politologue once more? I would be the last person to put you off a 16-1 poke on a proven Grade One horse, especially in a race like this. However, Paul Nicholls’ horse has consistently fallen short against the best of the best and, having written a rather pessimistic article so far, I have to retain enough optimism to hope that a proper superstar can emerge to outshadow the defending champion. Christmas is on the way, after all.

Greaneteen has been touted as a potential threat to the established order by better judges than myself - Tony Calvin previously advised an early Tingle Creek and potential Champion Chase bet, and he is due to put it up to Altior in the Sandown showpiece having won the Haldon Gold Cup following Calvin’s article. Greaneteen is now a best price 20/1 for the Festival (having been as big as 40s before his Exeter victory) but in two runs round Cheltenham he has finished only 13th and fourth. His fourth place was in March’s Grand Annual carrying 11-7 which, with respect, the owner of a championship quality horse would expect to be low enough to carry to victory (see Frodon shouldering 11-12 to win over three miles at the Open Meeting last month). His win in the Haldon Gold Cup saw him win by a neck whilst carrying just 11-3 (albeit more comfortably than this sounds) - Moonlighter, in second, was rated 142 (now 147) and has won just three of 16 races. Not one for me, unfortunately.

The 2018-19 season saw Le Richebourg emerge as a potential two mile superstar, winning three out of three races over the distance (including two Grade Ones) and finishing a very close second to the gallant Delta Work over two and a half. He would surely have won the Arkle had he stayed well, but Joseph O’Brien’s horse has now been absent with injury since February 2019. Whilst there’s a gap in the market, Le Richebourg may no longer fit through it after so long on the sidelines. 

Other potential hopefuls include Duc Des Genievres, who won the aforementioned Arkle in 2019 and performed strongly on his reappearance this weekend, and Douvan (just let me dream). There is far too much against either of these horses for me to suggest that they could be a potential Champion Chase winner in 2021, however (at least in public - I will keep myself warm with my duvet of Douvan dockets dating back to 2017).

We are left, then, to turn to the usual point of respite when confronted with such a predicament - the Kettle. 

Put The Kettle On was thrilling at Cheltenham this weekend when battling past a rejuvenated Duc Des Genievres in the Shloer Chase and she clearly loves racing at Prestbury Park. She had to show tremendous bravery to force past Paul Nicholls’ horse, who had led from the off and at one point established a rather wide gap between himself and the mare. However, like a local at their favourite pub shooing an out of towner out of their usual seat, Henry De Bromhead’s charge made her presence known to secure her third win in as many outings under the gaze of Cleeve Hill.

This performance was even more impressive given the list of factors which went against her going into the race. De Bromhead’s horses are in terrible form, having won just twice in 42 outings in the two weeks before the race, and Put The Kettle On was having her first run since the March. This was indeed only her second run in a year, and, having been active throughout last summer, it would have been fair to expect the mare to have needed the run. On top of this, whilst all of Stowaway’s daughter’s wins here have come on soft ground, jockey Aidan Coleman suggested that she did not enjoy the boggy conditions: “She hated the ground and was never happy the whole way. It's a testament to her ability and attitude because it was a hard race.”

With all things considered, it was difficult not to be taken by the performance. There are of course lingering doubts - the close proximity of Duc Des Genievres, who has not won since his Arkle victory, could lead to suspicion, and some will argue that Put The Kettle On is yet to face a genuine on-form Grade One animal given Defi Du Seuil’s non-performance. However, Saturday’s conditions were a near replication of the Duc’s greatest race, in which he achieved a rating of 163, and he looked near his best following the switch to Paul Nicholls’ yard. The winning distance of 1.25 lengths also does not do the mare justice, as she was handily on top at the finishing post. 

With this performance in mind, along with the fragility of the “big three” in the market, I think Put The Kettle On offers terrific value at a best-price of 10/1 for the Champion Chase. There is a good chance that she arrives at the race with at least one of the triumvirate absent, and, even if all are present, it is not difficult to envisage any of them encountering problems in running. 10/1 for a proven Cheltenham performer, who has transferred her novice ability into open company, goes on any ground, is open to improvement aged just six and who may find herself facing little competition is too big for me and, in a worst case scenario where she finds nothing else and all three of the big guns return to their peak, is a fantastic each way play. 

Having won at Cheltenham in November 2019 before being put away until her Arkle win, it may be that Put The Kettle On is left to brew until the 2021 Champion Chase. Whilst in this scenario her price would not fall of her own making, the 10/1 could rapidly disappear if further problems emerge with Altior and Chacun Pour Soi (Defi Du Seuil is already as big as 20/1) and none of the other potential candidates step up. 

However, it would be a shame not to see her until March - she is a fantastic, brave horse who could quickly become a people’s favourite if she continues in the same vein as her last three runs. I hope she causes her price to collapse all on her own.

---

*In Britain and Ireland - he was beaten as a 3 & 4 year-old in France.

[thisdaynews]

Garth Crooks' team of the week: De Gea, Lindelof, Baldock, Son, Rashford, Kane

New Post has been published on https://thebiafrastar.com/garth-crooks-team-of-the-week-de-gea-lindelof-baldock-son-rashford-kane/

Garth Crooks' team of the week: De Gea, Lindelof, Baldock, Son, Rashford, Kane

Premier League leaders Liverpool won again as they beat Bournemouth while Manchester United stunned rivals Manchester City in the derby.

The defeat for City means they are now 14 points behindLiverpooland six behindLeicester,who claimed a club record eighth successive Premier League win with victory atAston Villa.

Elsewhere,Sheffield Unitedcame from behind to beatNorwichwhileTottenhamput in a five-star display to see offBurnley.

Here’s my team of the week – have a read and then select your own below.

Goalkeeper – David de Gea (Manchester United)

David de Gea:It’s in games like Manchester derbies you need nerves of steel and goalkeepers you can rely on. David de Gea is one of those keepers.

Martin Dubravka’s performance for Newcastle saved the day against Southampton and Vicente Guaita was responsible for Crystal Palace keeping a clean sheet away at Vicarage Road. However, neither fixture contained the same temperatures as the Etihad Stadium.

De Gea was the coolest man on the pitch and produced two saves in the latter stages of the game that, under the circumstances, were world class. That’s why he’s a world class keeper.

Did you know?De Gea made four saves during Manchester United’s 2-1 victory at Manchester City, helping the Red Devils to all three points.

Defenders – Aaron Wan-Bissaka (Manchester United), Mason Holgate (Everton), Victor Lindelof (Manchester United)

Aaron Wan-Bissaka: I’ve been banging on about Aaron Wan-Bissaka for nearly two years now. I saw him play for Crystal Palace against Fulham at Craven Cottage, and Roy Hodgson didn’t want to talk about the player after the game for fear of attracting too much attention to the lad.

I also said he was a Manchester United player if ever I saw one. His defending in the Manchester derby was nothing short of outstanding. Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold might be better on the ball but there isn’t a better defender in the country on his day than Wan-Bissaka.

Did you know?Wan-Bissaka made five tackles against Manchester City, the most of any player in the game.

Mason Holgate:I never saw Mason Holgate as an imposing central defender but I thought he was amazing in the rejuvenated, never-say-die Everton team against Chelsea.

The block in the first half on Christian Pulisic was important but his overall contribution to his team’s efforts was quite brilliant. The question is why couldn’t Everton give Marco Silva some of what they gave Duncan Ferguson? What I did see was a football team playing in the same image of their interim manager. The players clearly understood what was required and boy did they give it to Chelsea.

Did you know?As well as making more blocks than any other Everton player (two), Holgate gave the ball away on fewer occasions (six) than any other Toffees player. Indeed, he also completed four tackles – only once before has he managed more during a Premier League match (five v West Ham in April 2017).

Victor Lindelof:The block by Victor Lindelof on Kevin de Bruyne was crucial if not a game changer.

Manchester United were 2-0 up after 64 minutes when De Bruyne’s shot was destined for the back of the Red Devils’ net, with plenty still on the clock, before the Swede produced the intervention of the match.

This victory for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wasn’t just about winning the Manchester derby but about his survival. Beating Spurs and Manchester City in a matter of days suggests that with a full complement of players, and not filling the team just with kids, Solskjaer has something.

Did you know?The Swedish defender made a team-high four blocks in Manchester United’s win at the Etihad.

Midfielders – George Baldock (Sheffield United), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), James Maddison (Leicester City), Son Heung-min (Tottenham)

George Baldock:I wasn’t sure if it was George Baldock or George Best!

I thought I was seeing things when I saw Baldock drag the ball back, pirouette and strike a glorious shot past Tim Krul. The finish – not to mention the skill – was superb along with Sheffield United’s performance.

Blades fans have been telling me I’ve been a little hard on their team recently and not giving them the credit they deserve. How many players do they expect in my team of the week?

Did you know?Only Liverpool duo Alexander-Arnold (seven) and Andy Robertson (six) have been directly involved in more Premier League goals this season amongst defenders than Baldock (five – three goals, two assists).

Jordan Henderson:This player has been outstanding for Liverpool during the past few weeks and continued his excellent form against a Bournemouth side that were never in Liverpool’s class.

Jordan Henderson’s pass for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to score was sensational. It might have helped the Cherries if they had a player within 10 feet of the Liverpool captain.

Henderson may not be the most adroit practitioner with the ball at his feet but even he will kill you if you give him that much room. The Reds go marching on.

Did you know?As well as registering an assist for Oxlade-Chamberlain’s opener, Henderson recorded the most successful passes in Liverpool’s match with Bournemouth (140) – indeed, that was also his most passes ever made in a Premier League match.

James Maddison:This might have been a completely different result had Aston Villa’s medical team done their job. To let Tyrone Mings back on to the field after he had suffered what was a clear hamstring injury was suicide. By the time Villa had regrouped they were 2-0 down and James Maddison was running the show.

There is no doubt in my mind that the title is going to Anfield but Brendan Rodgers has got Leicester playing better than when they won the Premier League and look odds-on to finish runners-up. Remind me where Arsenal are currently?

Did you know?Maddison created five chances against Aston Villa, with one of those being an assist for Jonny Evans.

Son Heung-min:The last time I saw a goal scored of this quality it was by His Excellency the President of Liberia. He was then of course just George Weah playing for AC Milan.

To run practically the entire length of the pitch, outrun a posse of defenders prior to putting the ball in the back of the net is quite extraordinary but that is what Son Heung-min did.

The South Korea international left a group of Burnley players in his wake and scored what must be an early candidate for goal of the season. Quite an achievement to have something in common with the President of Liberia.

Did you know?Son was directly involved in two of Spurs’ five goals against Burnley, scoring one and assisting another.

Forwards – Marcus Rashford (Manchester United), Harry Kane (Tottenham), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Everton)

Marcus Rashford:The challenge by Bernardo Silva on Marcus Rashford was about as reckless as the player’s social media posts about his team-mate Benjamin Mendy. Silva went crashing into Rashford in the penalty area like a bull in a china shop. If the tackle itself wasn’t a giveaway, the player frantically waving his hand in mitigation to the offence certainly was.

Rashford, nevertheless undeterred by Silva’s bully-boy tactics, got to his feet, brushed himself off, and amidst the white-hot heat of a Manchester derby sent the City keeper the wrong way. Now that’s a top class striker.

Did you know?Rashford has scored 13 goals in 21 appearances in all competitions this season – equalling his best goalscoring return for Manchester United in a single season (13 goals in 47 apps in 2018-19 and 13 goals in 52 apps in 2017-18).

Harry Kane:Two superbly taken goals scored by Harry Kane looks like business as usual. The difference being that Spurs scored five goals and conceded none.

Admittedly Burnley were poor and can’t win a game home or away to save their lives. Jose Mourinho has certainly stopped Spurs from sliding into the abyss but how long is he going to keep up with this utterly facile charm offensive and start turning this Tottenham team into a side that can win the big games away from home?

Hearing Roy Keane even suggest that Spurs lack the ‘mentality’ to win those games is enough to make a Tottenham fan want to lie down with a cold compress on the forehead in a darkened room.

Did you know?Kane netted both of his shots on target against Burnley, while also creating two chances for his team-mates.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin:The lad is not what I would call a natural finisher but Dominic Calvert-Lewin definitely makes things happen.

Everton have had five permanent managers in six years which tells you all you need to know about where they are as a club at the moment. I saw more passion, desire and endeavour against Chelsea than I’ve seen in the past six years. It was like Goodison Park back in the ’80s.

If that is the Duncan Ferguson effect then give him the job at least until the end of the season. You will know then whether he’s up to it. Calvert-Lewin certainly is.

Did you know?Calvert-Lewin scored his first ever Premier League brace in his 92nd appearance in the competition, and his first league brace overall since October 2015 for Northampton Town against Carlisle in League Two.

Now it’s your turn

You’ve seen my selections this season. But who would you go for?

Crooks of the matter

I saw it but I could hardly believe it. Fans hurling missiles and one fan appearing to mimic the actions of an ape towards Fred as he was trying to take a corner. Let’s be clear here, Raheem Sterling plays for that club doesn’t he? I wouldn’t be playing for them much longer if there was a repeat of that behaviour from my fans. I can only imagine what he made of it. I saw what Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and thousands of watching football fans around the world saw. We all saw it. The question is what to do about it?

Manchester City have made a good start by insisting they will ban fans for life if found guilty of these actions. We had this nonsense before in the ’70s and ’80s and the game spiralled into decline. We simply can’t afford to return to those days. Football authorities must act now and insist they get help from the government.

Read More

[sportsleague365]

The signing of Aaron Wan-Bissaka completes a possible all-British starting XI for Manchester United that shows how Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s transfer strategy is taking shape. With Solskjaer looking to create a homegrown core to build his United side around, he will be encouraged that he now has young British representation in all areas of his squad. It is a strategy Solskjaer has been keen to implement, and it mirrors the transfer approach of title challengers Man City and Liverpool in recent years. Wan-Bissaka joins Daniel James in moving to Old Trafford this summer, as Solskjaer looks to build a squad for the future packed with British talent. Of course, some of United’s most important players are non-British, with David De Gea, Victor Lindelof, Nemanja Matic, Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial all with a good chance of starting the first game of the 2019/20 season against Chelsea. But in a hypothetical world – or one where injuries rule out half his squad – Solskjaer is now in a position where he could field a British XI next season, giving a hint at what a future United side under the Norwegian might look. And while his current British options might not collectively strike fear into many opposition sides, United are only a few additions away from a more threatening homegrown side. Here, we look at Solskjaer’s current options and reported transfer targets to imagine what an all-British side would look like. Goalkeeper David de Gea has the No.1 jersey for the time being, but his future is in doubt and Dean Henderson has made no secret of his desire to be United’s first choice goalkeeper himself. Manchester United’s Dean Henderson has ambitions of playing ahead of David de Gea. (Image: Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images) After playing a crucial role in Sheffield United’s promotion to the Premier League, Henderson might be heading back to Brammall Lane for another loan spell. If he stayed, he certainly backs himself to be a starter at Old Trafford. Defence The signing of Aaron Wan-Bissaka means he would play at right-back on the other side to Luke Shaw in an all-British XI. In the middle, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are the current British representatives, but Axel Tuanzebe will hope to push for a starting spot this season if he doesn’t return to Aston Villa. Aaron Wan-Bissaka has signed a five-year deal at United. In terms of transfer targets to break up the Smalling-Jones partnership, Harry Maguire has been linked and would be a more imposing presence at the back. If United were looking at other England centre-backs, they might consider Burnley’s James Tarkowski or Brighton’s Lewis Dunk, who both have Three Lions caps. Midfield This is where United’s British options get a bit thin. Currently, a midfield three would consist of Scott McTominay , James Garner and Angel Gomes – hardly a trio that screams experience. Garner has been tipped as the ‘next Michael Carrick’ But United have been linked with plenty of British midfield talent to improve their current options, with Sean Longstaff and Declan Rice possibilities for the future. Jesse Lingard could also drop back if needed. Attack New signing Daniel James would provide ammunition for Marcus Rashford in Solskjaer’s current British side, with Lingard being used on the wing. Other exciting options have been linked though, like James Maddison, David Brooks, Jadon Sancho, Callum Hudon-Odoi or even Gareth Bale. Verdict This experiment clearly does not present a side ready to go out and win trophies for United next season, and Solskjaer is hardly going to deploy a homegrown side for the sake of it. It also emphasises that his international options currently provide the necessary experience in the dressing room. But Solskjaer knows he has British representation in every department to call upon, and with improvements there is reason to be optimistic going forward. The strategy is working. Source link The post How Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Manchester United transfer strategy would currently look as a starting XI appeared first on 10z Soccer. #JamesTarkowski #AaronWanBissaka #DeanHenderson

[sportticketexchange]

Euro 2021: Five uncapped players who could make the England squad for the tournament

Here are five uncapped players for whom the extra 12 months could see them force their way into the England squad named by Gareth Southgate for the tournament. Euro 2021 fans can book England Vs Czech Republic Tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

Goalkeeper: Aaron Ramsdale – AFC Bournemouth

Dean Henderson was probably going to be in the squad this summer let alone the next one, so I’ll make a case for the Bournemouth stopper Aaron Ramsdale to force his way in. Although his form is sketchy for his club, Jordan Pickford looks a lock if fit, while Henderson will surely be back up, but the third choice is up in the air.

Aaron Ramsdale has made a big impression in a struggling Bournemouth side this season. This is his first term as the custodian for the Cherries, and you would imagine he will only improve for the experience. There is a good chance that with a dynamic young squad.

If Eddie Howe can keep them in the Premier League this year, they will kick on throughout the next campaign. That third goalkeeping slot has been open for a while. Do not be surprised if Southgate has the call for the fast-improving Ramsdale.

Defender: James Justin – Leicester City

In tournament football, a versatile player is worth his weight in gold. Step forward James Justin, whose versatility could see him selected ahead of Max Aarons. As a Luton Town fan I’ve seen a lot of Justin, and the first time I saw him play, for the Hatters’ youth team.

I knew then he would go on and play in the Premier League and for his country. He was a midfielder then but he has progressed into an accomplished full-back on either side of the defence. He has had to bide his time at the King Power Stadium since joining the Foxes last summer.

But the drastic injury to Ricardo Pereira is sure to see him given a lot of game time over the coming months, and he has already impressed as a deputy to Ben Chilwell at left-back. Chilwell is no stranger to transfer rumours so if Brendan Rodgers decides to cash in on the knowing Justin can provide long-term back up.

The chances of the youngster showing his credentials will be even greater. There aren’t many full-backs better than Justin in England. He can attack and he is composed in defence. The delay of the tournament could be huge for him. Euro 2021 fans can book England Euro Cup Tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

Midfielder: Kalvin Phillips – Leeds United

We don’t know whether Leeds United will be in the Premier League next term yet, but we can rest assured that whether they are or not, Kalvin Phillips will be. The Whites’ holding midfielder is another who is versatile, in that he can slot in at centre-half too and look equally composed in either position.

There has been a lot of hype around Elland Road about the Leeds academy product and once he is in the Premier League the world will soon see why. The extra 12 months will give him a good opportunity to force his way into the mix, in a position which is quite vacant outside of Declan Rice.

Midfielder: Phil Foden – Manchester City

The worst kept secret in English football is not going to be kept out of the limelight for much longer, and with David Silva in the twilight of his Manchester City career and rumours surfacing that Leroy Sane and Riyad Mahrez could be allowed to leave the Etihad Stadium.

It is only a matter of time before the fringe spot Phil Foden is currently fulfilling gets upgraded to a permanent member of the Citizens first team. In this era of youngsters being handed their chance to shine in an England shirt, it is a surprise Foden hasn’t been called up for senior honors yet. It will be hard to keep him away in another 15 months from now though.

Striker: Mason Greenwood – Manchester United

They have a decent prospect over on the red side of Manchester as well, and the extra 12 months until the tournament comes along could be gold dust for Mason Greenwood. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been placing more and more trust in his youngster as this season has progressed.

The teenager is only likely to improve for the next term as a result. England doesn’t have a lot of centre-forward options outside of Harry Kane, with Jamie Vardy retired. Kane himself is building up quite an injury record and could depart Tottenham between now and the tournament.

Greenwood looks like being another and could do it in time for Euro 2021. We are offering Euro Cup Tickets so Football fans can get Euro 2021 Tickets through our trusted online ticketing market place. SportTicketExchange.com is the most reliable source to book Euro Cup 2021 tickets.

[torentialtribute]

The Premier League sack race: Roy Hodgson and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer favourites to be fired first

A ball has yet to be kicked in the new Premier League season, but some managers are al

Roy Hodgson is in the lead as a favorite to get the first boat, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Frank Lampard are both not far behind.

[19459002WiththenewcampaignthatthisweekendfinallystartsSportsmaillooksatwhoseworkisinsecurethechancesthattheygettostartandwhatmanagerhastodotoproveitisworthyofit

[1945

Some managers are under pressure Already under pressure before the start of the new Premier League season

Roy Hodgson – 6/1

Crystal Palace has endured a frustrating summer and a slow start to the season will only put more pressure on Hodgson. Palace has lost Aaron Wan-Bissaka and also saw Wilfried Zaha leave for the deadline day and with only Jordan Ayew and goalkeeper Stephen Henderson arriving there are huge gaps in an aging team.

Palace play Everton, Manchester United, Tottenham and Wolves in their first six games and if points are hard to come by, the hierarchy may be looking for a new manager sooner.

Roy Hodgson is currently the favorite as the first manager fired in the Premier League

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer – 6/1

When the notable run of Manchester United reigned from the beginning of the Solskjaer government. A disappointing end of last season, in which they saw only one of their last seven games win, seems to have been forgotten amid constant transfer speculation and the arrivals of Harry Maguire, Daniel James and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

is a huge pressure from the United fans to get the season off to a good start and, as Jose Mourinho discovered last season, a sloppy opening can see you out the door for a few months.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer faces a tough task to roll back The bad shape of United late last season

Graham Potter – 8/1

Brighton has previous only two points survived the season and a decision was made early in the summer to replace Chris Hughton with Graham Potter. The former Swansea manager impressed his debut season as a coach in English football, but the time will tell if his appointment came too quickly.

The seagulls do not want to scrap again to survive and any early signs that they can be dragged into a relegation battle, perhaps enough for Brighton to pull the plug out of their experimental appointment.

Graham Potter has to prove that he is the right man is to lead Brighton forward in the first few weeks

Dean Smith – 14/1

Aston Villa spent a lot of money this summer and welcomed 12 new signings as they try to re-establish themselves as a regular Premier League. Smith led the club with a remarkable series of results that brought them to the Premier League through the play-offs and if they could maintain that momentum in the first few weeks, they should be fine.

However, as we saw with Fulham last season, heavy investments cannot always translate into results on the field and Smith has to settle his side in the first weeks of the campaign.

Dean Smith has spent a lot of money this summer so far and needs to be fast getting results

Chris Wilder – 16/1

Sheffield United has a strong imagination to go down before a ball is kicked. Their work on the transfer market has not been particularly spectacular with some deals for good champion players who have never played in the top flight before.

Phil Jagielka bringing back and his experience can be a master at the heart of defense and, with fans satisfied with survival this season, Wilder could take advantage of low expectations.

Sheffield United is going very far down so Chris Wilder has a huge job on his hands

Daniel Farke – 16/1

Norwich won the championship with five points in the second season of Just Farke in English and played an attractive brand of English football. Like Sheffield United, Norwich will just want to survive and that means that a slow start may not make him lose his job.

The goals of Teemu Pukki were crucial for the Canary Islands last season and if he can achieve double digits in the top flight then you would think Farke will be safe.

Daniel Farke hopes to bring his successful plan of the Top flight

Frank Lampard – 16-1

Installing Lampard as the manager of a Champions League team after just one season in the dugout was a huge appeal from Chelsea. It is no secret that Roman Abramovich demands immediate success and it remains to be seen whether his expectations will change with the obstacles that have been set for Lampard this summer.

He was unable to buy players and lost Eden Hazard to Real Madrid with enormous pressure on the club's key players and young stars. It remains to be seen whether they, and their manager, can handle the extent of the challenge.

Frank Lampard has had to deal with the Chelsea transfer ban and Eden Hazard already lost

Javi Gracia – 1/16

Watford had a good season last year. They finished 11th in the table and reached the FA Cup final, despite being hit hard by an unbridled city side. It remains to be seen what this time is considered successful for the Hornets. They seem far away from the top six and still a few steps behind, such as Everton, Leicester and Wolves.

Gracia's failure to overtake those teams just outside of the division's elite or a sloppy start can easily cost his job, just as we've seen with his predecessors.

Javi Gracia faces the heavy demand for the gap between Watford and the Premier League elite

Manuel Pellegrini – 16/1

West Ham lingers in that space between teams just outside the top six and on the spit of a relegation battle. However, they have bought well this summer in Pablo Fornals and Sebastian Haller and are trying to have enough firepower to touch this season.

Despite their abundance of offensive talent, there are question marks about their defensive abilities and the failure to sign a reliable partner for Issa Diop might return in central defense to pursue Pellegrini.

Manuel Pellegrini has invested a lot in his team this summer and Expected to deliver results

Marco Silva – 16/1

Everton and Silva must kick this year and finally take on a challenge to break into the top six. They have a team of players to do it and with European football this season they must have enough in the tank to take on a challenge.

Silva has invested heavily in midfield this summer and he will hope he finally found the club a long-term replacement for Romelu Lukaku in Moise Kean. However, there are concerns about the defense personnel and the time is ticking on the transfer market to bring more new faces.

Marco Silva has invested heavily this summer invested in midfield, but still wants more recruits

[19459102]

Ralph Hasenhuttl – 20/1

Southampton was in a mess when the Austrian camera arrived, But he showed how good he is to turn them around and guide them in safety. There is no doubt about Hasenhuttl's qualities, but if he fails to build on that recovery from the back of last season, he might get into trouble.

Saints also signed only two players this summer in Che Adams and Moussa Djenepo, not exactly names to determine the race pulse, and a lack of activity could come back to the & # 39; Alpine Klopp & # 39 ; to chase.

Southampton was in a mess when Ralph Hasenhuttl came in , but he showed how good he is

Mauricio Pochettino – 20/1

The Argentinian hinted that he would probably have left Spurs if he was in June had won the Champions League. With at least three managers in the top six you get the feeling that their destiny is in their own hands and it seems hard to think that Spurs would fire Pochettino.

He can leave if there is a chance to manage a European heavyweight during the season, but expects Pochettino Spurs to lead an entire campaign in their new £ 1 billion stadium.

Mauricio Pochettino can leave Spurs if an opportunity arises occurs to manage a European giant

Unai Emery – 25/1

Emery & # 39; s first season in English football was relatively successful . They were hunting for Champions League football and made the Europa League final. Now it's time for him to step up and break into the top four.

They have one of the most powerful attacks in Europe in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette and Nicolas Pepe and questions can be asked if they do not pose a serious challenge.

Questions can be asked by Unai Emery if Arsenal is not serious top four challenge provides

Sean Dyche – 25-1

Burnley have the same target this season: survival. The Carets will be happy to maintain their Premier League status and that means that the work of Sean Dyche must be guaranteed unless relegation becomes a realistic possibility.

Dyche will feel that he has to prove something after being overlooked again for high-profile jobs at Leicester and Newcastle in recent months.

Sean Dyche's job at Burnley must be safe unless relegation is a realistic possibility

Brendan Rodgers – 33-1

Rodgers is perhaps the best manager outside the top six and his extensive experience in the Premier League will be beneficial. He showed it after arriving from Celtic in February when he saw this Leicester team play and, with a summer on the training field under his belt, he expects to fully implement his style.

A lack of adequate replacement of Harry Maguire in the defense can be a huge problem with the time running on the transfer window

Brendan Rodgers is perhaps the best manager outside the top six of the Premier League

Eddie Howe – 33- 1

Bournemouth has the opportunity to be regulars in the top 10 of the Premier League and has to get the best out of their talent that they have available before the big clubs Callum Wilson, David Brooks and Nathan Ake coming in.

is no doubt about Howe & # 39; s talent as a manager, but does he have to prove that he can compete with those right outside the top six regularly to get a job at a larger club?

Bournemouth must get the best out of their talent that they have available before big ones clubs come to call

Nuno Espirito Santo – 40-1

The Portuguese boss was one of the outstanding managers last season when he led Wolves to seventh at Nuno has used the club's deep pockets again to add Patrick Cutrone to his team, as he appears to be competitive in the Europa League as well.

However, we have seen this before that the European competition extends teams and Nuno has to balancing his priorities in an effort to be competitive on all fronts.

Nuno Espirito Santo was one of the outstanding managers last season and the expectations are high again

Jurgen Klopp – 100-1

At the back of securing the sixth European cup from Liverpool the position of Knock currently impenetrable. His focus will now be on bringing the Reds back to the top of English football, but Manchester City is in the way again, just like last season.

There has not been enough transfer activity at Anfield to please any supporter, but Klopp knows that he has a team capable of challenging, convinced that they can close again.

Liverpool hierarchy is confident that Jurgen Klopp can win the Premier League finally title

Pep Guardiola – 100-1

The odds show that there is very little chance that Guardiola will be shot through the city. It would take a remarkable turn of events for the Spaniard to leave in a decision that was not his.

Guardiola still misses continental glory in Manchester and another failure of the Champions League saw his frustration boil over. After having only spent three seasons in Bayern Munich, it remains to be seen how long Guardiola is in England. However, it is quite clear that City will not pull the trigger on its future.

It would take a remarkable series of events for Pep Guardiola to be fired by Manchester City

Source link

[tipsoctopus]

'Amazing partner for VVD', 'Edwards do ya stuff' - These Liverpool fans urge club to sign CL ace

Paris Saint-Germain took advantage of their Champions League last 16 tie against Manchester United by winning 2-0 in the first leg at Old Trafford on Tuesday night, and Liverpool fans were clearly impressed with what they saw from Marquinhos given their reactions on Twitter.

The 24-year-old has primarily been known as a centre-back throughout his career to date, but PSG manager Thomas Tuchel has often utilised him in a defensive midfield role this term – as he did against the Merseyside outfit earlier this term – and he chose to do the same against Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side.

The Brazil international was seemingly tasked with man-marking Red Devils star Paul Pogba out of the game and he certainly did a brilliant job, with the Frenchman even being dismissed in the closing stages of the game.

Fans of United’s arch-rivals Liverpool were clear in their thoughts on social media – they would love for their club to sign Marquinhos, who would presumably compete against the likes of Joe Gomez, Dejan Lovren, Fabinho and Jordan Henderson for a spot in Jurgen Klopp’s starting XI.

While one Liverpool supporter described the South American as an “amazing partner for VVD”, another said “Edwards do ya stuff”.

Here is just a selection of the Twitter reaction…

Marquinhos is a boss player! Edwards do ya stuff! #LFC

— S.O.C (@ScorpioStevie) February 12, 2019

Sign Marquinhos @LFC

— Tom Foster (@tomfoster1998) February 12, 2019

Imagine Marquinhos alongside fabinho #lfc #ynwa

— Greg Tatler (@gregtatler) February 12, 2019

Liverpool should go for Marquinhos, he’s such a solid player he’s the next Thiago Silva #LFC pic.twitter.com/qylDKiYjgH

— LFCLucas (@LFC_Lucas17) February 12, 2019

Want him since his time in Roma

— Bryce (@Bryce_LFC) February 12, 2019

Doy por iniciada la nueva campaña de fichajes. Sign Marquinhos @LFC

— AlexLFC (@AlexLFC2) February 12, 2019

Liverpool should sign Marquinhos for however much money it would cost. Ticks all the boxes. Amazing partner for VVD, cover at RB and DM.

— Kenny (@KKeeton_) February 12, 2019

I'd happily take Verrati or Marquinhos at Liverpool

— James (@owenjlfc) February 12, 2019

Are fan nerves to blame for Liverpool’s recent form? Pl>ymaker FC’s Tom Skinner discusses in the video below…

from FootballFanCast.com http://bit.ly/2tjwcTY via IFTTT from Blogger http://bit.ly/2TOF3J5 via IFTTT

[stephstars08]

I promise as we start getting closer to Spring Training for baseball I’ll start to write more for Adley and Gunnar!!!!!

[stephstars08]

Better Than Him

Gunnar Henderson x Reader

Warnings: Some Adult Language, Depressed!Reader, Anxiety, Mention of Bad Break Up, Alcohol, Mention of Drunk Reader, Angst with Fluff at the End, and Possible Grammar Errors. (Let me know if I forgot any!!)

Summary: Y/N and Gunnar grew up together and lived in the same state till their senior year in high school but they eventually got reunited after just a year apart. When they reconnect old feelings came back for Gunnar but before he could tell Y/N she once again got together with someone else. After the boy breaks Y/N’s heart Gunnar hopes and prays that Y/N will realize that he is way better for her than her ex.

Word Count: 1,764

Author’s Note: My first Gunnar story is finally here! I am so happy that baseball is back since I’m getting all kinds of story ideas for Gunnar and Adley. Now this story is actually based off a country song that I don’t think a lot of you know. The inspiration is from the song He Ain’t Worth Missing by Toby Keith. I grew up listening to country music and my first ever crush was Toby Keith who sadly passed away in February and it really crushed me because he was a big part of my childhood so of course I’ve been listening to his music a lot lately. Gunnar actually reminds me a lot of Toby Keith. I really don’t know what it is. They are both country boys since Gunnar is from Alabama so they had similar accents. And maybe it’s because they had similar hair and when Gunnar has facial hair he looks like him! Idk what it is so don’t be surprised if I write another Gunnar story based off a Toby Keith song! I’ll leave the link to song here if you all want to listen to it! You don’t have to if you don’t want to. Sorry for the long Author’s Note and I hope you all enjoy this story!!

Y/N and Gunnar grew up together in Montgomery, Alabama and were really close to one another since the day they started school together. Well, that was till Y/N moved from Alabama to Maryland her senior year of high school.

Y/N has a lot of family in Maryland so that was a big reason why her and her family moved there. It just really broke her heart to move away from Gunnar. It was so hard for both of them to not see each other everyday. They did their best to stay in touch with each other by texting, calling, or even FaceTiming.

After they both graduated from high school they thought that they were still going to be separated from each other since they were going into different directions but to their surprise they were going to be reunited. Y/N got accepted into the university of Maryland and Gunnar got drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the 2019 MLB draft at just seventeen years old. They are so happy to be back to living in the same state as one another again. Even though they won’t be able to see each other everyday but at least they were just a car ride away from each other again.

When they started hanging out with each other again a lot of old feelings were returning especially for Gunnar. Gunnar started to develop a crush on his best friend at the end of eighth grade into their first year in high school. Gunnar will never forget the day he realized that he’s falling head over heels for Y/N. Gunnar always wanted to ask Y/N out but she was always with someone else. When he reconnected with her he was hoping he would get a chance to confess to her his feelings but again Y/N got the attention of someone else.

______________________________

Now into the Present. Gunnar is entering his third season in major leagues after winning AL Rookie of The Year the season before and Y/N is almost done with her final year at Maryland University. Y/N hasn’t just been stressed out because of school but also has been stressed because she just had a bad break up with her on and off again boyfriend named Brad. He’s your typical fuck boy frat boy in college. It always drives Gunnar fucking crazy when Y/N goes back to that asshole so he’s hoping and praying that this break up is the end.

Since Y/N has been depressed from the break up Gunnar and a couple of her friends she goes to school with got her to agree to go to a bar and have some drinks since it was Friday. Since Gunnar’s opening day for his team was a Thursday he didn’t have a game that night. Once everyone arrived at the bar everyone walked into the bar together. Right away Y/N wished she didn’t walk inside. She just froze in her spot. The only person who noticed that she just stoped was Gunnar. Before he could ask what was wrong he saw what Y/N was looking at. It was Brad sitting at the bar with a girl who was obviously his date. Y/N knew who the girl was. The girl is the person Brad dumped her for. It hurt Gunnar to see the hurt in Y/N’s beautiful and soft eyes. “Y/N.” Gunnar said putting one of his hands onto her shoulder which got her attention. “Ignore him. Don’t let him ruin your night.” Gunnar told her. Y/N just gave him a nod and let Gunnar take her to where their friends were sitting which was a table in the back of the bar.

Right when the waitress came to their table Y/N ordered some shots of Tequila for herself. Gunnar’s worry returned since he was worried that Y/N was going to get completely wasted. It’s never fun taking care of a drunk Y/N since she can get really crazy when she drinks too much.

As the night went on Gunnar would notice Y/N glance over at Brad and his date. When Brad leaned over and gave the girl a kiss on the lips Y/N has enough. “I can’t fucking do this!” Y/N hissed as should stood up. She grabbed her purse and made her way out of the bar. Her friends kept calling her back over the music but she just ignored them and kept on walking. When Y/N walked out of the bar one person followed her. When the person grabbed her hand she knew the person who followed her was Gunnar. Y/N let out a heavy sigh. “Y/N-“ Gunnar started to but Y/N immediately cut him off. “I’m not staying okay!” Y/N told him with a mixture of frustration and sternness in her voice pulling her hand out of Gunnar’s. “Listen I know you can’t go back in there but you still deserve a night out. We can go somewhere else.” Gunnar told her but she shook her head no. “I just need to be alone right now.” Y/N told him and turned away from him to walk to her car. Gunnar wanted to go after her but no matter what he says to her it isn’t going to change her mind.

Y/N has gone through many break ups but this is the first break up that has left her completely broken. No matter how sad Y/N got from a break up she never shut Gunnar out. Her telling him that she just wants to be alone is a first.

Once Gunnar watched Y/N drive away in her car he let out a heavy sigh and walked back into the bar.

______________________________

A couple days have pasted and Y/N hasn’t contacted Gunnar which made him even more worried about her because it’s not like her to ignore his texts and calls. He feels like she is isolating herself from all of her friends which is really out of character of her. He knows that she’s hurting but she shouldn’t be by herself right now. She’s vulnerable and when you are vulnerable being alone is a big red flag. He knows that she’s hurting but she shouldn’t be ignoring the ones that love and care for her. The only time Y/N has left the her apartment is to go to her classes.

Y/N was sitting in her living room watching TV. She was wrapped up her in her fluffy blanket eating her favorite snack while watching her favorite and comfort show. This is all she does when she is home. There was a knock on the door which made her let out a big groan. “Go away!” Y/N called out. “Y/N, it’s Gunnar.” She heard him say on the other side of her front door. “I told you that I want to be alone!” Y/N called back out to him with frustration. “Y/N I just want to talk to you.” She heard Gunnar say. She could hear the concern in his voice. “I’m not going to leave.” She heard him add in.

She let out a sigh in defeat as she pulled her soft blanket off her body. She stood up from the couch and walked over to the door. She opened the door to see her concern best friend. “Are you going to let me in?” Gunnar asked her. Y/N stepped to the side so he could walk into her apartment. “Is your roommate here?” Gunnar asked her in a curious tone. “No, she’s in class right now.” Y/N answered as she closed the door. “Have you been going to class?” Gunnar asked her which made her let out a groan. “If your talk is a lecture you can just leave.” Y/N told him in annoyance.

She walked back towards that couch and flopped down onto it. “Y/N you shouldn’t be depressed over a stupid fucking frat boy.” Gunnar told her in a stern tone. “You can find a guy that is ten times better than Brad.” Gunnar added which made her let out a scoff. “Oh and who could that guy be?” Y/N asked him folding her arms over her chest. “Me!” Gunnar blurted out which took her by surprise. “What?” Y/N asked in shock looking up at him with wide eyes. “Shit!” Gunnar hissed as he ran a hand through his curly blonde hair.

This isn’t how he wanted to tell his best friend that he has feelings for her.

“Gunnar!” Y/N said as she stood up from the couch. “Do you have feelings for me?” Y/N asked him. “Yes I do.” Gunnar answered which made her heart skip a beat. “How long have you felt this way?” Y/N asked him. “Since the end of eighth grade.” Gunnar answered her. “You’ve had these feelings for that long.” Y/N said still in complete shock. The couldn’t believe what was happening. “I wanted to tell you but you were always with someone.” Gunnar told her with frustration in his voice. “Gunnar.” Y/N said but he ignored her since he started to ramble. “I wanted to tell you when we reconnected here but before I could get the chance you got with Brad.” Gunnar explained to her. “Gunnar.” Y/N said again but again he kept on talking. “When you two broke up I was hoping and praying that you would realize that I can be better than him for you.” Gunnar told her. Y/N knew he wasn’t going to listen to her and that he was going to keep talking so she walked closer to him.

Before he could get another word out she grabbed him by the arms and connected her lips with his lips. The kiss took Gunnar by surprise but since this has been a moment he’s been waiting for he immediately returned the kiss. When they released from the kiss they had to catch their breaths.

“I’m sorry.” Y/N said in a soft tone which confused him. “Sorry about what?” Gunnar asked her in confusion. “I’ve had feelings for you too but I always thought that you only saw me as your best friend.” Y/N told him. “Don’t be sorry. I’m stupid for hiding my feelings from you.” Gunnar reassured her. “I think we’re both done with be stupid.” Y/N said with a giggle which also made Gunnar laugh.

“Well since we’re done being stupid how about I take you out to dinner after my game on Sunday for our first date?” Gunnar said as she smiled up at him. “That sounds like a good date to me.” Y/N said wrapping her arms around his neck as he smiled down at her.

[stephstars08]

Been thinking about writing a Gunnar Henderson x Reader series but I’m a little nervous not many people will read it since not many people read those stories on here!!!😬😬😬😬😬

Let me know if you’ll read it!!!

[stephstars08]

I HAVE TWO IDEAS FOR TWO GUNNAR HENDERSON ONE SHOTS THAT IS BASED OFF TWO OF MY FAVORITE COUNTRY SONGS SINCE GUNNAR IS FROM ALABAMA WHICH MEANS HE’S A COUNTRY BOY! HOPING TO RELEASE THE FIRST ONE THE WEEK OF OPENING DAY!!!🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡

[stephstars08]

Gunnar Henderson

One Shots

Better Than Him

(I DO NOT DO TAG LISTS!!!!!)

***PLEASE DO NOT POST MY WORK ON ANY OTHER PLATFORM WITHOUT CREDIT!!!!***

[stephstars08]

🧡⚾️MY FIRST GUNNAR HENDERSON IMAGINE WILL EITHER BE POST TOMORROW OR TUESDAY!!!⚾️🧡

[stephstars08]

Best Friend’s Sister

Adley Rutschman x Reader

Warnings: Adult Language, Fluff and Maybe a Tiny Bit Of Angst, Mention of Cheating, Anxiety, and Maybe Some Grammar Errors. (Sorry if I forgot any!)

Summary: Adley’s best friend is his teammate Gunnar and they have been so close ever since the Orioles drafted them. They are so close that they live together so when Gunnar’s big sister comes to Maryland to visit she stays with her brother and his best friend. But right when Adley meets Y/N he instantly falls for her which makes him freak out because he knows that he’s growing feelings for not just any girl, but he’s falling for his best friend’s sister.

Word Count: 2,018

Author’s Note: Just wanted to leave a little note that this story might not be completely accurate. This story takes place last season. I’ve heard Adley and Gunnar say that they have lived together multiple times. I don’t know if they just lived together when Gunnar first got called up or not and I don’t know if they live together now. They definitely live together during spring training but again this story takes place last season where I believed they were still living together during the regular season!

Adley is the star catcher for the Baltimore Orioles and his best friend is his teammate Gunnar Henderson who is the Orioles star in the in field and is also a star with his bat as well. Adley and Gunnar were both drafted by the team in 2019. Adley was drafted number one overall after is record breaking season at Oregon State University. The team ended the season with a National Championship. Gunnar was drafted right out of high school.

The boys became close through the minor leagues all the way up to the major leagues. Adley made his major league debut in May 2022 and Gunnar made his major league debut the same year in September.

People noticed the close bond between the two players that people were saying that Gunnar is Adley’s sidekick. Both boys have admitted that they are very close and have said that the main reason why they are so close is because they live together in a contemporary style house.

———————————————

The Orioles just ended the day with another win. The team has a day off tomorrow before they start another series back at home. The team is currently in Boston getting ready to leave Fenway for the airport back to Maryland.

The team was in the visitor’s locker room gathering their stuff up to head outside to the bus. Adley was putting on his sneakers when Gunnar approached him. “Remember my big sister, is coming tomorrow morning.” Gunnar said reminding him.

A couple months ago Gunnar’s sister who is just a couple years older than him told him that she will be coming to visit him from their home town in Alabama. Gunnar asked Adley if it was okay if Y/N can stay in their guest room while she’s in town which Adley told him it wasn’t a problem at all. Y/N is the only person in Gunnar’s family that Adley hasn’t met yet. Gunnar has told Adley how amazing Y/N is and how close they are with one another. Gunnar is very excited to see Y/N since when Gunnar is playing baseball he doesn’t see Y/N a lot since she’s busy with her career. Y/N just broke up with her boyfriend of one year so she felt like she needed to get away so why not visit her baby bro.

“Right, thanks for reminding me.” Adley told Gunnar as he tied the laces to his left shoe. “How long is she staying with us again?” Adley asked him in a curious tone as he put on his right shoe. “A week and a half.” Gunnar answered him.

“You’re going to love her. She’s like the girl version of me.” Gunnar told him. “Okay so I’m basically going to be living another you.” Adley said as he stood up after tying his right shoe. “Can’t wait.” Adley added in a teasing tone as he playfully rolled his eyes. “Hey! I’m a good roommate!” Gunnar said defending himself as Adley picked up his bags that had him equipment and uniform in. “Whatever you say.” Adley said still teasing his best friend as he made his way out of the locker room. Gunnar rolled his eyes and followed him. He knows that Adley’s just messing with him like he always does. Adley sees Gunnar as a little brother.

———————————————

It was the next morning and Adley was awoken by music playing downstairs. Adley let out a big groan as he got out of his comfy bed. He was planning on sleeping in since the team had a long day yesterday but obviously that’s not going to happen. Adley walked out of his room and stomped downstairs to the living room. He heard the music coming from the kitchen so he made his way towards the kitchen.

“Gunnar will you turn down the-“ Adley started to say in a snappy and annoyed tone but stopped himself when he saw that the person in the kitchen wasn’t Gunnar. Adley right away knew that it was Y/N since she looked similar to Gunnar. Y/N stopped mixing the pancake mix that was in the bowl and paused the music that was playing on her phone.

“Shit! You’re not Gunnar.” Adley said as his cheeks turned a rosy red in embarrassment. “No, but people do say that I do look like the girl version of him.” Y/N told him with a giggle. “I’m Y/N.” Y/N added introducing herself with a kind smile. “I’m Adley but you probably know that so why am I telling you something that you already know.” Adley said cursing at himself in his head. Y/N let out another giggle which made Adley’s heart skip a beat. “It’s okay.” Y/N reassured him.

“Sorry for barging in here like that.” Adley apologized. “You don’t have to apologize.” Y/N told him. “I’m sorry about the music. Gunnar kept turning it up.” Y/N apologized. “It’s okay. This ain’t the first time I’ve been woken up by Gunnar’s music.” Adley told her with a small sigh. “Yeah, as much as I love my little bro he can sometimes be hard to live with.” Y/N told him which made Adley let out a small laugh.

“Do you want some pancakes?” Y/N asked him in a curious tone as she walked over to the stove carring the bowl that had the pancake batter in. “Sure.” Adley said with a nod. Y/N gave him a small smile and started to pour some of the batter into the big pan with a spoon. As Y/N cooked the pancakes Adley walked over to the kitchen island and took a seat down onto one of the chairs. As she cooked Adley would glance over at her. He didn’t notice that he was just staring at her till Gunnar walked in caring a grocery bag that has a carton of milk in it.

“I’m back.” Gunnar said. “Hey sleepy head.” Gunnar said walking over to Adley and roughing up his messy brunette hair with his empty hand. Adley rolled his eyes as he pushed Gunnar’s arm away. “I hope my annoying sister didn’t bother you while I was gone.” Gunnar said in a teasing tone. “Oh shut up and put the milk in the fridge.” Y/N told him in a stern tone. “Geez so mean.” Gunnar said pulling the milk out of the bag and walked over to the fridge. Y/N rolled her eyes as Gunnar opened the fridge and put the milk in it.

After Y/N finished making enough pancakes for herself and the boys they sat down at kitchen island together. As they ate Y/N and Gunnar told Adley stories about them growing up together. Adley also got to know Y/N as well.

———————————————

As the days passed and the more Adley has gotten to know Y/N he’s realized that he is falling for Y/N. And he knows that he’s not just falling for any girl, no! He’s falling for his best friend’s sister. He’s falling for Gunnar’s older sister.

When Adley’s around Y/N he just can’t help but feel butterflies in his stomach. When they lock eyes Adley feels his heart rate speed up. He loves hearing her talk with her southern Alabama accent that matches Gunnar’s.

Adley knows that he’s falling head over heels for her and some times he feels like she feels the same way but sometimes he thinks that it’s all in his head. But that’s not his biggest worry. His biggest worry is what Gunnar will think. Would he freak out if he finds out that his best friend likes his sister? Even though Y/N is the older sibling he can tell that Gunnar is very over protective of her. Adley wants to tell Gunnar about what he’s been feeling but he’s worried about what his reaction would be.

———————————————

It was a Saturday night and the Orioles had an early game win so to celebrate some players game to Adley and Gunnar’s house. Y/N sat in the backyard with her brother and his teammates. Since there was a fire pit in the backyard Gunnar put some firewood in the pit and started a bomb fire so everyone sat around the fire just having some drinks and talked. As time passed some guys left one by one. Once the last teammate left Gunnar called it a night for himself since he was exhausted so he went inside to his room leaving Y/N and Adley alone by the bomb fire.

There was a comfortable silence between the two till Y/N broke it. “I enjoyed watching you play. You sure know how to put on a damn good show.” Y/N told him which made Adley blush. He was hoping that Y/N didn’t notice. “Thanks.” Adley said with a smile. “I’m glad I took this trip. Really has helped me get my mind a reset.” Y/N told him. “Gunnar told me that you recently just got out of a relationship.” Adley said in a soft voice. “Yeah.” Y/N said with a small nod.

“What happened?” Adley asked in a curious tone. “If you don’t mind me asking.” Adley quickly added. “It’s okay. You’re good.” Y/N reassured him which made him relax. “It all started two months ago when my ex boyfriend kept accusing me of cheating on which I wasn’t and just after we celebrated our one year anniversary I caught him in bed with a girl who was at the time a good friend to me.” Y/N told him which broke his heart to hear. “Damn. That’s fucked up.” Adley said with a hint of anger in his voice. “Turns out he had been cheating on me for months and was just accusing me of cheating so I would break up with him.” Y/N said with a heavy sigh as she stared down at her hands that were resting on her lap. “What a dick move.” Adley said in disgust. “It was a fucking cowardly move.” Y/N added with another sigh.

“You don’t need people like that in your life.” Adley told her. “They didn’t deserve to have you in their life. Especially that douchebag.” Adley added which made her look up at him. “Really?” Y/N asked him. “Y/N, you are a beautiful and an amazing girl.” Adley started to tell her as they locked eyes. “The perfect guy is out there for you. He’s waiting for you and he’s going to make you forget all about that asshole.” Adley told her with a warm smile. “Thanks Adley, I’ll remember that.” Y/N said returning the smile.

Adley knew that he was talking about himself being the guy but he was wondering if Y/N knew that he was the one he was talking about.

———————————————

Ever since that night by the bomb fire Adley and Y/N have become so close that for the rest of her visit she always wanted to be around him and just talking to him. It made both of them sad when Y/N had to leave to go back to Alabama. Before Y/N got on her plane she promised that she’ll keep in touch with him.

Gunnar was driving his car with Adley in the passenger seat driving his car back to their house. “You have a feelings for Y/N, don’t you?” Gunnar asked him which took Adley by surprise. He didn’t know what to say so he just stayed quiet. “It’s okay if you do.” Gunnar told him with a reassuring smile which made Adley’s nerves relax. “Yeah, she’s just everything that I look for in a girl.” Adley told him. It felt so good for him to finally say this out loud to someone.

“I know my sister better than anyone so I know that she definitely feels the same way.” Gunnar told him giving him a quick glance. “But just because I’m your best friend doesn’t mean that I won’t kick your ass if you break her heart.” Gunnar added in a stern tone. Adley let out a small laugh. He knew that was coming. “You have my word cowboy.” Adley said looking at him. Gunnar couldn’t help but let out a laugh at Adley’s nickname he gave him.