Ben Brereton-Diaz, the forward who grew up in Stoke-on-Trent, still finds himself marveling at the fact that he is celebrated as a star in a South American country. The journey began in 2021 when a group of supporters launched an online campaign to push for his inclusion in the Chilean national side after spotting his eligibility on a popular football simulation game. Since that push, Brereton-Diaz has earned 42 caps for La Roja and found the back of the net ten times.
"Every time I step onto the pitch for Chile, it feels like a homecoming," the Derby County striker explains. "The enthusiasm from the fans is incredible, and the atmosphere is something I cherish.
When I first received the call‑up, it was a surreal moment – the outpouring of love was overwhelming. Scoring goals and getting regular minutes has only deepened my connection to the country and its people.
I’m proud to make my family, who split their lives between Chile and England, feel proud of my achievements. The decision to represent Chile has opened doors to experiences I never imagined, and each call‑up feels like a gift.
I hope to receive many more in the future." Unfortunately, Chile missed out on the last two World Cups, a disappointment that Brereton-Diaz says has only fueled his determination. "We didn’t qualify this time, and that hurt, but it also motivates us to work harder.
There’s a wave of young talent emerging, and we’re building a squad that can return to the world stage. The future looks promising," he adds. Across the English Championship, Portsmouth have endured a tough campaign, yet the club’s 22‑year‑old Northern Irish right‑back Terry Devlin has turned his season into a personal breakthrough. Utilised both as a traditional right‑back and a more advanced wing‑back, Devlin says, "The team has had its ups and downs, but on an individual level I’ve really thrived.
This is my first full season playing regular minutes, and that consistency has been huge for my development. I’d love to see the squad climb higher in the table, but it feels great to have cemented my place and to be contributing week in, week out." He credits his progress to a disciplined routine.
"It boils down to consistency," Devlin notes. "Day after day I’ve stuck to the same training habits I practiced last season and the one before.
Over time that steadiness translates into better performances. Being a professional means giving 100 % every single day, learning from senior teammates, and fine‑tuning every aspect of my game.
If I keep that approach, I’ll keep improving and eventually reach the level I aspire to." Meanwhile, an unexpected summer transfer caught the eye of many observers. After a loan spell at Watford, midfielder Jamal Lewis made a brief, adventurous move from Newcastle United to São Paulo in Brazil.
"The deal came through late in the window, but it felt like a unique chance," Lewis, now on loan at Preston, recalls. "Brazilian football has a legendary reputation, and I wanted to test myself in a different environment, soak up a new culture, and showcase my abilities to a fresh audience." His Brazilian stint was cut short, however, when an injury sustained on international duty forced his return after just six appearances. "I didn’t get to explore Brazil as much as I hoped," he admits. "São Paulo is massive – you can drive an hour and still be in the same metropolitan area.
The experience was a breath of fresh air, but I wish I’d spoken Portuguese to connect more deeply with teammates and fans. I’d love to go back someday and spend more time there." At Watford, 26‑year‑old Imran Louza has taken on the captain’s armband following Moussa Sissoko’s departure to Panathinaikos. "Leadership doesn’t happen overnight," Louza explains.
"If I were still in France, communication would be easier, but after five years in England I’ve learned to lead by example and earn the respect of my peers." He prefers to let his actions speak louder than words, yet acknowledges the vocal side of captaincy. "I give everything on the pitch – my heart, my runs, my intensity.
Sometimes you need to raise your voice to motivate the group, especially when the team needs a push. I try to stay positive, but I’m also competitive and want to win every match. That mindset helps me guide the squad." Lastly, the Championship boasts a rare World Cup champion in its ranks: Steven Nzonzi, who recalls the pinnacle of his career in the 2018 final in Moscow.
Entering the match in the 55th minute with France leading 2‑1 against Croatia, he replaced none other than N'Golo Kanté. "It was immense pressure," Nzonzi remembers. "Coming on for arguably the tournament’s best player, you have to block out everything else and focus. We scored two more goals shortly after, and I felt a wave of relief." When Kylian Mbappé added the fourth goal, Nzonzi’s belief that they were on the path to glory solidified.
"At 4‑1 I looked around the pitch and thought, ‘this is it.’ Even after the second goal, we knew the result was sealed. That moment when you realise you’re about to become a world champion is unforgettable." He admits the celebrations blurred together, making it hard to pinpoint when he first lifted the trophy. "After the match we ran to meet the fans, waved the French flag, and later I saw my son.
Whether I touched the trophy before or after that moment is fuzzy – there was just too much happening. The memories of holding the cup, receiving the medal, and the roar of the crowd will stay with me forever." The upcoming fixtures are set for Tuesday the 21st at 7:45 pm and Wednesday the 22nd at the same time, unless otherwise noted. Fans can also enter the Super 6 competition for a chance to win £250,000, with free entry available.