Features

Dublin , Ireland - 20 May 2023; Chantelle Cameron celebrates with coach Nigel Travis after defeating Katie Taylor in their undisputed super...

Below is an updated list of the feature and opinion pieces – all sports – that I’ve written in a monthly format, so enjoy! Those written pre-January 2023 have been archived, to look for my older content, use the search bar on the right-hand side of your screen ———>

NOTE – This will continue to change over time!

2023

May
Pros pick: Katie Taylor vs. Chantelle Cameron – Intrigue surrounds Dublin headliner
Istanbul bound: City composed in 4-0 Real rout, as a pivotal three weeks now beckon
Deandre Ayton played through Game 5 pain, but now Suns must look within
Madrid: Sabalenka showed growth in toppling Swiatek on Saturday, and needed to
Joshua Buatsi ends a year-long layoff vs. Pawel Stepien, and must keep winning
John Ryder endured an arduous road to a Canelo title shot, at the best possible time
After breaking Premier League’s single-season scoring record, Erling Haaland yearns for more
UFC Vegas 72: What’s next at 135lbs, after Song Yadong’s TKO5 win vs. Ricky Simon?

April
Exclusive: Chris Billam-Smith interview – A month away from his first world title shot
UFC Africa: As Senegal is named frontrunner destination, how viable is this project in 2024?
Houston’s Ime Udoka hire only boosts their standing as a budding contender again
Andrey Rublev’s grind resumes in Bosnia, after clinching maiden Masters 1000 title
Exclusive: Anthony Yarde interview – Plotting his way back into contention
Calvin Kattar calls Holloway vs. Allen true #1 contender fight at 145lbs – he’s right
As playoffs near, multiple dominos waiting to fall in NBA’s head coaching carousel
It’s now or never for Israel Adesanya vs. arch-nemesis Alex Pereira
Graham Potter was doomed at Chelsea from Day 1, but poisoned chalice moves on
Lawrence Okolie vs. Chris Billam-Smith: World champion enters the lion’s den – against a friend – on May 27

March
Task remains the same for Harlem Eubank, after another late change for Wasserman
UFC’s 135lb division shuffles once more, after Sandhagen punishes lethargic Vera
Mikal Bridges exceeding expectations in Brooklyn is refreshing, as Nets plot rebuild
Casper Ruud’s alarming slump continues, after painful Miami defeat overnight
Yes, Zurdo Ramirez’s big weight miss at the weekend was a blessing in disguise
Questions asked as Colby Covington mooted as Leon Edwards’ next title defence
Stupid or smart? Confusing extension? Atlanta agree four-year, $68m Bogdanovic deal
Opportunity calls as Chantelle Cameron gets her legacy-building wish on May 20 against Katie Taylor
Rewind: Alexa Grasso’s UD win over Viviane Araujo on Oct. 15, is she ready for Shevchenko shot?
Eric Nicksick’s reminder a sobering one before Jones-Gane at UFC 285 this weekend

February
Ambition and activity: Stephen McKenna eyes bigger challenges after passing Brandon Denes test
Plenty to ponder for both after Medvedev outsmarts Murray to clinch Qatar Open title
NBA trade deadline day – a week on: Moves, winners/losers plus new season projections
UFC 284: Interim featherweight title or not, Emmett and Rodriguez have a career-best showcase
BOXXER London: Adam Azim relishes main event role, Denny-Pauls in a domestic duel and more
Worth the gamble? Dallas Mavericks’ trade for unsettled Irving raises big questions for both

January
Rip up the script: Rewind to Liam Smith’s stunning R4 TKO win vs. Chris Eubank Jr, what’s next?
The Wembanyama tank race: What does Jakob Poeltl contract situation say about San Antonio?
AUS OPEN 2023: Nadal, Swiatek and more in round-up, draw analysis as year’s first Major starts
2022’s Fight of the Year: Leigh Wood vs. Michael Conlan – pulsating firefight and a dramatic finish
Jan. 28: Karol Itauma, his world champ amateur teen brother Moses speak before double-header


Timeless archives – analysis pieces, scout reports and more

Gianluigi Donnarumma is awarded with the Yachine Goalkeeper Trophy during the Ballon D'Or ceremony at Theatre du Chatelet on November 29, 2021 in...

2022

Tennis
Who was Nick Bollettieri? Remembering the HOF tennis coach, who died aged 91 on Sunday
Dominic Thiem ends his 2022 season exhausted, but happy with progress – as he should be
Wimbledon ban a blessing in disguise for in-form Samsonova, who’s firing on all cylinders
Leading 6-4, 2-1 vs. Ostapenko in Saturday’s semi-final, what happened to Raducanu in Seoul?
US OPEN: Nadal, Raducanu and more in round-up, draw analysis as year’s final Major awaits
Rybakina reigns supreme vs. Jabeur: Where was Ladies’ Wimbledon final won and lost?
Okay, do we need to have the Emma Raducanu conversation yet?
Following Rome exploits, is Djokovic peaking at right time to defend his French Open title?
Murray’s R1 Madrid Open win over Thiem should also give Austrian some perspective
After Munich success, who isn’t paying attention to Danish teenager Holger Rune?

Football
U21s: Chelsea’s Gallagher produces integral display vs. Germany, before October’s big month
Haaland haunts Hammers, defending champs City preview life with Norwegian leading their line
Conor Gallagher and the task of emulating talented academy products before him
Scary hours indeed: Haaland’s City move could shift the needle further in their favour
Courtois’ inspired display – once again – proves a fitting end as Real clinch 14th CL title
Why Aston Villa are boosting their European ambitions with £26m Diego Carlos deal
Gabriel’s gritty all-round display against Wolves shines a light on volatile Arsenal

Combat sport
75 days on from history in London: What’s next after a compelling Shields-Marshall showdown?
Charlo’s broken hand causes uncertainty, as Tszyu title defence postponed indefinitely
Ben Shalom, Richard Riakporhe, Frazer Clarke and more: BOXXER comments, before a busy 2023
Crawford crunches Avanesyan on his career night, but now the big fights must be made
With big 2023 plans set, is Teofimo Lopez again overlooking opponent in Spain’s Sandor Martin?
Chris Eubank Jr vs. Liam Smith: Given world title ambitions, neither can afford to lose on Jan. 21
Camden Media Day: BOXXER Super Sunday, feat. Adam Azim and Lerrone Richards vs. Zak Chelli
A week on: Denzel Bentley’s stock rises after spirited title fight showing vs. Janibek Alimkhanuly
Throwback: Before LHW title shot vs. Bivol, a look at two of Zurdo Ramirez’s recent TKO wins
Rewind: Before Arnold Allen main event, a look back at Kattar’s SD loss vs. Emmett on Jun. 18
Lomachenko is talk of the town at 135lbs, but has business to completebeats Jamaine Ortiz
John Ryder vs. Zach Parker media day: Who said what, ahead of November 26’s main event?
Eubank Jnr vs. Conor Benn cancelled: Common sense prevails in dark week for British boxing
History revisited: Canelo’s R12 MD win over Golovkin, in previewing Sept. 17 trilogy bout
UFC Paris: Five things we learned from a memorable Fight Night card in new surroundings
Reflection: Vergil Ortiz Jr’s TKO9 win vs. Michael McKinson, a look at what’s perhaps next for both
Rewind: Ahead of Dominick Cruz main event, a look back at Marlon Vera UD5 Rob Font on Apr. 30
Joyce-Parker set for September 24, with nowhere to run an apt tagline for upcoming PPV bout
After his R4 blasting win over Bryan, Dubois must now step up the gears again
Joe Cordina’s stunning R2 KO opens up possibilities in super-featherweight division
UFC 275 Virtual Presser: Santos keen to wrestle, Joanna targeting revenge and more
40 days on: After his Amir Khan KO win, what’s next for Kell Brook still remains unclear
UFC Columbus: With women’s flyweight in flux, Alexa Grasso must seize co-main chance
Stevenson-Valdez: It’s been a long time coming, but Shakur’s showcase awaits on Apr. 30
Out of his control, Islam Makhachev’s title aspirations muddied once more
After bumpy 2021, Ryan Garcia’s coaching change could make-or-break career trajectory

NBA
NBA Q&A – Christmas special: A look at struggling teams, trade targets and stories to watch
Cam Reddish’s sour situation in New York just reinforces how quickly things can change
Given historical trends, Jason Kidd’s concerns about the Luka Doncic usage rate are natural
Stuttering start: How worried should neutrals about the Timberwolves’ growing pains?
Q&A: New storylines, burning questions and bold predictions made as 22-23 season tips off
Now or never? Big things expected from Embiid, Harden and Maxey in big season for 76ers
After falling short in the Finals, Boston Celtics look to go one further as Udoka scandal looms
Ambitious Siakam and reigning Rookie of the Year Barnes poised to charge for tenacious Toronto
Ja Morant leads hungry Memphis, still bullish and confident after sore West semi-finals defeat
Kawhi Leonard’s caution tops Clippers’ agenda as they target injury-free upcoming campaign
Adjustments, belief and new additions: Lillard-Simons duo headline newlook Portland
Cavs acquire Donovan Mitchell in surprising summer trade, what does this mean?
Jayson Tatum wrist injury: Does Celtics star’s recent admission change the criticism on him?
Gobert, Paschall and more: Offseason acquisitions galore as T-Wolves target big season ahead
After agreeing reduced $68.6m deal, will 76ers and Harden hum along into true title contention?
Masterful or misguided? Beal and Lillard’s latest contract extensions predictably raise questions
Draft breakdown, featuring an ominous Orlando core and Thunder excitement
After firing James Borrego, Charlotte can’t afford to waste potential with his successor
Storylines intensify as playoff permutations remain for multiple teams in final week
NBA Q&A: Big questions answered, predictions made as 21-22 season into business months
Joel Embiid’s masterful Milwaukee night reinforces his MVP credentials, with Harden to come
CJ McCollum to the Pelicans: This exit from Portland felt inevitable, but also long overdue
Analysis as Giannis produces 31-pt display in return as Brooklyn’s slow start proves costly

2021

Football
Sergio Aguero’s abrupt retirement, aged 33, is upsetting but tinged with relief
Fiorentina’s forward overtures for Jonathan Ikone show where they aspire to be
Gareth Southgate’s contract extension felt inevitable, but is no less divisive
Reece Oxford’s Augsburg extension reinforces his refreshing progression
Brazilian winger Antony comes of age, as Ajax annihilate dishevelled Dortmund
Punished for profligacy: Neal Maupay spoils Palace’s party with sucker punch strike
Tottenham’s City triumph felt inevitable, even as Harry Kane saga rumbles on
Meticulous planning, irreparable damage and cruel irony: Lionel Messi at PSG
PSG move caps a summer Gianluigi Donnarumma will never forget
City career complete, Sergio Aguero’s Catalan adventure begins
Kai Havertz seizes his big moment as Chelsea seal second Champions League triumph
Rúben Dias and Timo Werner, the tale of contrasting summer signings
Bayern’s German monopoly continues, but don’t begrudge Julian Nagelsmann
Arsenal duo Omari Hutchinson, Miguel Azeez sparkle in Friday’s FA Youth Cup win
Timely two-year contract extension just what Kevin de Bruyne deserves
After Sunday’s abrupt address, Sergio Aguero’s long City goodbye begins
Only £100m? No chance: David Moyes’ defiant Declan Rice stance speaks volumes

Tennis
Johanna Konta’s retirement: Injuries don’t cloud her legacy as Britain’s tireless hope
Anett Kontaveit astonished by top 10 rankings surge, but she really shouldn’t be
Emma Raducanu should heed Tim Henman’s warning ahead of coaching decision
After Chicago defeats on her return, how long can Kim Clijsters’ excitement remain?
Match rewind: Naomi Osaka’s remarkable Aus Open recovery win vs. Garbine Muguruza
Tokyo Olympics: After seizing gold for Swiss, can Belinda Bencic build on this?
Wimbledon 2021: Draw revealed, featured first-round matches to watch out for
Novak Djokovic teaches Daniil Medvedev a lesson in handling pressure and expectation
Naomi Osaka reinforces her standing as world’s best against inspiring Jennifer Brady

NBA
Tyrese Haliburton’s recent surge shows Sacramento have long-term puzzle to consider
Ja Morant is right to feel hurt, but Memphis must show their star some love
Bam Adebayo’s surgery-requiring thumb injury an untimely blow for hectic Heat
Paolo Banchero, Duke and the all-important question still to be answered
Phoenix licked their Finals wounds, but now signals time for more work
Necessary or excessive? Lonzo Ball, Alex Caruso and DeMar DeRozan join Chicago
Despite everything, 76ers’ high asking price for Ben Simmons isn’t a surprise
Justified or not, Kristaps Porzingis’ afterthought concerns were a long time coming
Never say no: Defying odds, Stephen Curry continues making the Warriors believe
Jaylen Brown’s season-ending wrist surgery amplifies his Celtics influence
Chicago Bulls’ Nikola Vucevic deadline day trade a necessary gamble
Jury is out: Does PJ Tucker have enough juice in the tank for a playoff run in Milwaukee?
All-Star break over, what now? NBA Q+A: Rookie watch, trade targets and surging Suns
LaMelo Ball isn’t surprised by his record-breaking numbers – you shouldn’t be either

Combat sport
2021’s Sleeper Fight of the Year: Jermell Charlo vs Brian Castano – an action-packed duel
2022 must be about less talk and more action for returning Keith Thurman
After a productive 2021, Belal Muhammad seizing his chance in flimsy 170lb division
Joseph Parker’s improved display vs. Derek Chisora sets up encouraging 2022
Vasiliy Lomachenko’s Commey clinic elevates him in Kambosos Jr sweepstakes
Casey O’Neill’s patient progression stance is one more UFC prospects should follow
Finally, Lopez-Kambosos Jr lightweight title fight looms large this weekend
Fury’s camp posturing over Whyte title defence shows why the best often hibernate
Fury-Wilder 3: After several delays and legal arbitration, the trilogy is finally here
If Bud is the division’s pinnacle, will Shawn Porter finally rise to the occasion?
Rematch Yordenis Ugas or retire? Assessing the Manny Pacquiao predicament
Vergil Ortiz Jr’s star rises further after disciplined, gritty R8 Kavaliauskas KO
Even after patchy Carlos Takam weekend win, time is of the essence for Joe Joyce
Joshua-Usyk title fight date set for Sept. 25, but don’t overlook the Ukrainian
Talk is cheap: Pivotal moment awaits Marvin Vettori in middleweight championship slot
Ask and you may receive: Julianna Pena’s boldness earns her dubious title shot
Vergil Ortiz Jr’s justified confidence needs to be championed, not rubbished
UFC 257: Forget the pleasantries, Dustin Poirier must now seize the moment
Chris Eubank Jr’s latest promotional deal an opportunity to finally prove himself
2020’s Knockout of the Year: Gervonta Davis’ R6 stunning uppercut vs Leo Santa Cruz

2020

Football
Thomas Tuchel made PSG believe, but his time was numbered from the start
Eberechi Eze’s persistence paid off as his Premier League journey is underway
Sergio Aguero at 32: Time & chances no longer a guarantee, with incomplete Euro dream
Why Bayer Leverkusen are right to stay firm with their Kai Havertz stance
Reiss Nelson: Balancing his potential with competition, expectations and Arteta’s faith
Same old story with polarising Neymar as Haaland steals the show in Germany

Tennis
Daniil Medvedev’s historic ATP Finals win sets up a very promising 2021
Maria Sharapova’s retirement: Her lasting legacy, memories and controversy

Specials
Max Whitlock interview: Experiences, sporting heroes, dreams of Paris 2024 and more
Jacob Blake, NBA protests and an ongoing quest for social justice: What’s next?
I don’t want to see it, but Vettel’s Ferrari departure should prompt him to retire
History revisited: Who are the youngest goalscorers in Premier League history?
Coronavirus intensifies across sport with events, matches cancelled or postponed
LA Clippers view Q&A: Kobe’s legacy, Zion watch, Embiid-Simmons future

Combat sport
Worth the wait? Finally, Daniel Dubois vs Joe Joyce is just a week away now
History revisited: Groves beats Eubank Jr on points after a thrilling finish
Dana’s determination was admirable, but this was inevitable from the first bell
100 days on from his nightmare in Saudi Arabia: What’s next for Andy Ruiz Jr?

2019

VAR and a selection problem that needs resolving
Why Brighton’s £20m Neal Maupay move makes perfect sense
Watford’s pursuit of Ismaila Sarr, while shrewd, could pay off brilliantly with patience
Who is Ismael Bennacer? Forgotten Arsenal talent, Algeria hero now set for Milan
Vincent Kompany: A colossus, model pro and future City boss
Why Manchester United’s pursuit of Aaron Wan-Bissaka speaks for itself
Jadon Sancho: England emergence, what’s next after Bundesliga frustration?
Women’s World Cup 2019: France Squad, Preview and Predictions
3 reasons Raphael Varane is right to stay at Real Madrid
3 reasons Barcelona should not sign Antoine Griezmann
Emile Smith-Rowe: Life at Leipzig, Arsenal future and what awaits him
Malcom’s display vs. Villarreal gives Valverde selection headache
How Angel di Maria went from Manchester United flop to key PSG man
The world’s 10 best footballers by assists this season
5 winners and losers following Gonzalo Higuain’s Chelsea move

2018

The Ousmane Dembele conundrum
5 Ligue 1 youngsters destined for big future transfers
Mason Mount’s England call-up is no surprise, if you’ve watched him
Why Jack Grealish’s failed Tottenham move is blessing in disguise
Hoffenheim a bold, valuable move for Arsenal’s Reiss Nelson
Tiemoue Bakayoko loaned to Milan, but what happened to Chelsea’s £40m man?
5 low points in Jose Mourinho’s managerial career, so far
Why is Karim Benzema still at Real Madrid?
World Cup 2018: 5 best players from the group stage
Profiling Brighton and Everton target Ezri Konsa
World Cup: 5 keys to success for France in Russia
5 most improved players from Europe’s top leagues in 2017/18
James Maddison’s progression is proving too good to ignore
5 reasons why Neymar will never win the Ballon d’Or
Ryan Sessegnon helping fuel Fulham’s promotion push
Critics should let Paulo Dybala progress in peace
Adam Peaty – The swimming sensation, with more yet to come
England’s youth level success raises questions on senior development
Joe Gomez: The talented youngster Liverpool must build around

2017

How Victor Moses has gone from laughing stock to indispensable
Analysis: Achraf Hakimi – Real Madrid’s encouraging teenage fullback
Scout reports, continued:
Youri Tielemans, Francois Kamano, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Keita Balde
Improving Pulisic should continue to ignore interest abroad, for now
Tactical Philosophy: Sean Dyche

2016

Scout reports:
Vincent Koziello, Kylian Mbappe, Christian Pulisic, Jadon Sancho
Paul Pogba and the weight of lofted expectations

2015

Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool: The story so far
Nathaniel Clyne’s progression: From aspiring teen to Liverpool regular
Interview: Adam Ryan Dawson on his youth, career aspirations and more