talkSPORT

Fab return

Former Tottenham managing director Fabio Paratici is in advanced talks to return to the club, talkSPORT understands.

Paratici was forced to step down in April 2023 after being hit with a worldwide ban by FIFA after being found guilty of false accounting while at former club Juventus.

That ban ends on July 1 and several sources have told talkSPORT that while nothing is signed yet discussions are at an advanced stage.

Current sporting director Johan Lange is expected to stay to work with Paratici, who would have a major say in manager Ange Postecoglou's future.

Spurs could part company with Postecoglou even if they win the Europa League.

Spurs declined to comment when approached and sources close to the club maintain Paratici’s connection is unchanged for now, despite multiple visits to games since March.

Paratici is likely to start this summer should a full agreement be reached.

No more Mr Nice Guy

Manchester United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has put his French side Nice up for sale, talkSPORT understands

Ratcliffe, who has implemented a series of brutal cost-cutting measures since arriving at Old Trafford, values the Ligue 1 side in excess of £200million.

Nice are one of a number of sports teams the Monaco-based British billionaire is involved in, having purchased the side in 2019.

He then bought a 25 per cent stake in United in February 2024, taking over control of footballing matters at his boyhood club.

Tensions have been strained with Nice ever since, particularly when dismissive comments he made about them in March lit up the fanbase.

“I don’t particularly enjoy going to watch Nice because there are some good players, but the level of football is not high enough for me to get excited,” he said.

Park life

Thomas Tuchel’s England will play at Villa Park this year, marking 20 years since the home of Aston Villa has hosted the Three Lions.

England will host a World Cup qualifier against Andorra in Birmingham on Saturday September 6th.

The Midlands stadium last hosted an England match in February 2005 - which ended in a goalless draw with the Netherlands.

It will be the tenth time Villa Park has hosted the senior international side - the first of those being against Scotland in 1899.

Speaking about the venue of their match against Andorra, Tuchel said: “We are excited to play at Villa Park, another stadium full of history.

“I know from my own visits to the stadium this season that it is capable of creating an outstanding atmosphere and is located close to St. George’s Park which is a positive for our preparation.

“We hope to be able to generate another special atmosphere and create a memorable occasion for all fans.”

Magpied

Eddie Howe has admitted Newcastle will look to 'take advantage' of Premier League rivals' PSR concerns this summer.

The Toon faced having to sell Anthony Gordon to Liverpool last June to balance the books under threat of a points deduction.

However, last-gasp sales agreed to allow Yankuba Minteh to join Brighton for £33million and Elliot Anderson to Nottingham Forest for £35m meant the Magpies held onto their key stars without entering financial trouble.

Now, after three windows without the addition of a first-team player, Newcastle boss Howe revealed he is ready to turn the tables.

Howe said: "I’ve made it clear last year that there’s almost two transfer windows now. The PSR deadline plays a huge role for clubs – both those clubs with PSR issues and those without, because those without may potentially look to try to sign players. They will look to take advantage of other clubs, as clubs did to us last year, quite rightly.

"It’s a really interesting dynamic, and one that we’re really aware of and that we’ll try to use to our advantage if we can. I can’t go into the details of that, but no doubt we’ve got people at the club who are working very hard behind the scenes on it."

On interest in Alexander Isak, Howe added: "We want to keep our best players. I think I’ve made that very clear.

"That’s not just the wish from me. That’s the wish from everyone at the club. I don’t have a crystal ball.

"I can’t sit here and say what’s going to happen. I can only say what my determination is, and it is to build a team, the best team possible - and to do that you can’t consistently lose your best players."

"He (Isak) is not for sale from my perspective. I want to build a squad and I want the strongest squad possible for next season.

"There is a lot to look forward to here, hopefully. The end of the season is crucial for us. I think we have a strong squad and if we can add players for the first time in a few windows, that will make a massive, massive difference for us.

"That’s what I’m focusing on, not the other way around."

Solanke and Maddison injuries not 'too significant'

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has issued an update on possible injuries to Richarlison, Dominic Solanke and James Maddison.

The trio were all substituted off in the second half of the Europa League semi-final first leg win over Bodo/Glimt.

He said: "Richarlison wasn't injured, it was just a tactical thing.

"He did a great job for us in the first half, exactly what we needed him to do, but we thought the game would open up in the second half, and we got Mathys [Tel] on for that.

"Madders felt a tweak in his knee, but it doesn't sound like it's anything serious, and Dom something similar in his quad.

"Both of them didn't feel it was anything too significant, but thought it was wise just to take them off at that point."

Cherry picking

Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has revealed there are no fresh injury concerns ahead of their clash against Arsenal.

The Cherries boss also discussed Evanilson's red card against Manchester United being overturned on appeal.

He said: "I haven't asked for any explanation, and no one has called me to explain how the process has gone. Obviously, something hasn't worked well. The VAR referees are becoming more important than the actual referees, and I think that is very dangerous."

Iraola continued: "Obviously, you prefer to have Evanilson, not just for this game but the next two. But also, there is the part where what I thought is now confirmed. It's a strange feeling, now we have to focus on the game tomorrow, knowing he's available, which is better, but it doesn't change the decision of the referee."

On how many points he believes referee decisions have cost Bournemouth this season, Iraola added: "You have to look at the stats.

"The VAR interventions for us and for the opposition during the season.

"The season is very long, and I don't think we've been very lucky during the season with these decisions.

"It's something we cannot control, but it affects us."

Teenage kicks

Enzo Maresca ramped up excitement over teenage prospect Reggie Walsh following his historic debut last night.

Wals, who is Chelsea’s youngest player since 1967, is so young that he wasn't born when John Terry slipped and missed his penalty in the Champions League defeat to Manchester United.

He was sent on as a late substitute as the Blues cruised to a 4-1 victory over Swedish side Djurgarden.

“It’s a great moment, he’s very young,” Maresca said. “To be honest, it’s already a long time that I feel excited to give him the debut chance because he’s so good.

“He’s very young but in the way we want to play, in our way, in our style, he’s perfect.

“But he’s still very young, he needs to learn, he needs to work hard and he needs to grow for sure. But we are happy.

“[Chelsea staff] just said to me that we gave eight debuts this season from the academy. I think it’s good.”

Roll out the Red carpet

Liverpool have secured a record-equalling 20th top-flight title, and Arne Slot has been basking in the achievement.

The Reds needed a point in Sunday's clash against Tottenham Hotspur to wrap up the title, but won it in style with a 5-1 win.

Speaking ahead of their first game as champions this Sunday, Slot said: "Of course, a lot of messages and yeah, 9/10 times they were the same, but it comes from good hearts, I have tried to answer them all, but with big messages back.

"It's been amazing, especially Sunday. One of the best days of their lives, and the same for me. T

"he way the day went, going behind, we had to work for it, scored the goals, seeing how much it meant to players and fans was special to be a part of.

The most famous person who messaged me? "I assume it was Jurgen!"

What did he say? "Congratulations, now I know what a special club it is.

"I am part of history, this type of stuff, he was really happy for fans and the club."

T-Rent is due

Next up is Liverpool boss Arne Slot, who has again been quizzed on the future of Trent Alexander-Arnold.

The Reds vice-captain is expected to join Real Madrid this summer on a free transfer once his current contract expires.

However, there has been recent speculation that the England international could be tempted to stay at Anfield by Liverpool's recent Premier League title triumph.

Alexander-Arnold was spotted in conversation with the club's owner, John W Henry, in the aftermath of the 5-1 win over Tottenham.

Slot said: "If there is any news, I wouldn't say you are the first to know, but as long as there is no news from us, this is not the place to talk about his situation."

The Dutchman went into more detail on the future of Harvey Elliott, who has been restricted to a bit-part role this season.

Slot added: "I think it's very important that people who are here want to stay, Harvey is one of them who hasn't had enough playing time as he has deserved, but he is in competition with good players, and he was injured.

"I have been honest with him, before his injury, he wasn't the same when he came back, but last few months, he has got back to that level before it. Last few months, his time has gone up more, so I liked him more now than when he first came back from his injury."

Jamie O’Hara believes Tottenham Hotspur will have had a better season than Arsenal if they secure the Europa League title and their north London rivals are eliminated from the Champions League.

The former Spurs midfielder was in high spirits on Thursday night as Ange Postecoglou’s side cruised to a 3-1 victory against Bodo Glimt.

Brennan Johnson set the tone 38 seconds in as he headed in whilst unmarked at the back post.

James Maddison and Dominic Solanke then followed suit to ensure a first-leg victory and put one foot in the final.

Bodo did score late on but Spurs held on to stretch their unbeaten home run to 20 matches in Europe.

It's the longest ongoing unbeaten home run from any English side who have featured in Europe this term.

Spurs sit 16th in the Premier League after a dismal league season, but the potential of a Europa League title - and the Champions League place that would come with it - has converted some frowns into smiles.

The same cannot be said of Arsenal - who watched Liverpool lift the Premier League title on Sunday and then fell victim to PSG in their Champions League first leg.

Ousmane Dembele silenced the Emirates crowd as he scored the only goal of the match in the fourth minute.

Mikel Arteta’s side are likely to finish second in the league, 14 places above Spurs, but that will be for the third successive time, extending it to five years without a trophy since they won the FA Cup.

“If Spurs win the Europa League, we get Champions League football and Arsenal get knocked out of the Champions League, we’ve had a better season,” ex- Tottenham midfielder O’Hara said on talkSPORT.

“I genuinely believe we’ve had a better season. Our goal this season was to win a trophy and get Champions League football and we could do that.

“Arsenal, their goal this season is to either win the Champions League or win the Premier League and it looks like they’re not going to do either.”

Despite the downtrodden mood of Arsenal fans, there remains a second leg in Paris to be played with only a one goal differential to overcome.

Arsenal are capable of beating PSG as they proved back in October but with multiple injuries and a much-improved opposition it will be a hard task.

Spurs could yet sack manager Postecoglou this summer - even if they win the Europa League and end a 17-year trophy drought - such has been their turmoil in the Premier League.

Another ex-Spurs player, Ramon Vega, also joined talkSPORT to give his opinion. He said: “Arsenal messed up the league.

“If Spurs win the Europa League, I think Tottenham funnily enough will have the better season because a title is always more important than any position in any league.

“That’s the one you’re leaving as a legacy. A position in the league is just a stat. A trophy goes in the cabinet and it stays there.”

Firing shots

Back in North London, Spurs are piling pressure on.

Ange Postecoglou’s side have had six shots at the Bodo/Glimt goal since scoring, with the visitors having none.

James Maddison has come closest to getting a second, sending a volley just over the crossbar.

Doubling the lead would be massive for Postecoglou and his team, and it would certainly relax some nerves.

Taking a hefty lead into the second leg would be massive.

Injury blow

Here's some news Spurs fans won't have wanted just before kick-off in their crucial semi-final tonight...

Lucas Bergvall is in danger of missing the rest of the season after picking up an ankle injury, talkSPORT understands.

The teenager has been spotted on crutches and in a protective boot pitchside at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

He was a shock omission from Ange Postecoglou's squad this evening, but it's the ankle issue keeping him out.

Bergvall has played a huge part in Spurs' European campaign, starting in 10 of his 12 Europa League appearances.

So, to be without him for this pivotal semi and potentially the final if they make it, it's a big blow for Postecoglou.

Too much pressure?

Ahead of Man United's potentially season-defining night in Spain, Ruben Amorim has spoken about pressure.

The Red Devils boss was asked whether the weight of playing for the club, as well as the weight of the situation, could be too much.

He responded: “No. I think they [the players] are prepared.

"If you see this team, maybe with some problems during the years, they were able to win cups and that was also a pressure.

"Especially the FA Cup is a big thing in our league. They are prepared, every player is an international. The context this season is really complicated in every aspect, so I don’t see that as an issue.

"They are excited to be here, they want to win, they are capable of winning. It could change our summer, it could change the next year, but if we want to improve the club, we should not be focused on this.

"It’s not the most important thing in our club. We have to deal with a lot of things in our club and we’ll be fine, with or without Champions League.”

Pitch complaints

Chelsea are potentially going to have a tough night in the Europa Conference League against Djurgarden.

The Swedish side play on artificial grass and their own players have been complaining about their pitch.

Winger Adam Stahl and striker August Priske have taken aim at the surface, with manager Jani Honkavaara questioning it too.

Due to worries over the passing on the surface, Chelsea’s possession-heavy tactics and building from the back plan could go wrong.

And speaking on the matter, Blues manager Enzo Maresca has admitted: "It's completely different.

"I know that in the last weeks, even some of their players were complaining about the pitch.

"They play every week, so for us it's a different one.

"But there are no excuses, no reasons why we are not going to compete in this game and the second game at all."

'Not on any planet'

Ange Postecoglou has hit back at claims that Spurs winning the Europa League is the same as Man United winning the FA Cup.

The Red Devils won the FA Cup last season, seemingly painting over the cracks of a poor year under Erik ten Hag.

That result saved Ten Hag's job, albeit for a short time, and that brings parallels to Postecoglou at Tottenham.

His side have had an awful year in the Premier League, but success in Europe could well see the campaign end in glory.

Postecoglou said: "I am really strong at the moment on the parallel worlds we are trying to traverse and I have sensed, which is not surprising because this is the way this club is perceived, people are almost trying to diminish it in some respects.

"I have seen some people saying it is the equivalent of Man Utd winning the FA Cup, no. Not on any planet is it equivalent. That is suggesting that maybe we are not worthy of Champions League.

"Things are there that are designed to diminish what is ahead of us, which is an unbelievable opportunity.

"Irrespective of how this season has gone, we have generations of fans who want this more than anything else - to share this with the people that they love, a special moment supporting their football club.

"We could be flying in the league, but it wouldn't make this opportunity any different. The opportunity is the same and I have made that clear to the players."

New Leeds stadium must keep fear factor - Jordan

Simon Jordan is hopeful that Leeds United’s new stadium plans can keep Elland Road as one of the most intimidating arenas in the country.

Earlier this week the club unveiled pictures of plans to increase the stadium’s capacity from 37,645 to 53,000 as part of a modernisation project.

Councillors will now be discussing the pre-application phase of the process ahead of Leeds’ return to the Premier League.

Should the plans go ahead it will be a big upgrade for one of England’s most iconic stadiums, or as Jordan puts it, England’s most intimidating.

The former Crystal Palace owner said: “Having been an owner and gone round most of the stadiums, all of the significant ones in the Premier League and Championship, I always felt that the one that always stood out as the most intimidating atmosphere wise was Leeds.

“I don’t know why, at the time we played them they weren’t in good nick, Dennis Wise was managing them which always has its challenges when Dennis is involved, and they were in a league way below what you think Leeds should be involved in which was League One.

“Yet you still got this feeling… It’s certainly a big, big football club and the nature of that stadium, going to 56,000 with a fanbase that can fill it quite easily and probably has waiting lists.”

Saudi Pro League target three Premier League stars

Emiliano Martinez, Leon Bailey and Darwin Nunez are the targets of another Saudi Pro League swoop as they prepare for a statement summer.

The two Aston Villa players could aid the club’s PSR worries while Nunez, who has become surplus to requirements at Liverpool, could fund a new forward’s incoming.

This season was the first in which the £100million sale of Jack Grealish has not given Villa a boost in relation to PSR calculations.

It is a problem worsened by a wage bill which meant wages as a proportion of turnover hit 91 percent - the highest of any Premier League club.

Ollie Watkins has been linked with a move away but Martinez and Bailey could be the ones to follow in the footsteps of former teammates Moussa Diaby and Jhon Duran.

“There is concrete interest from Saudi Arabia in both,” said talkSPORT's Saudi football correspondent Ben Jacobs.

“I’m expecting another big Saudi window much like in summer 2023. They’ll come in waves because there are foreign quotas.”

'I hope to stay'

Harvey Elliott has revealed that he wants to stay at Liverpool this summer, but may have the decision taken out of his hands.

The midfielder is yet to start a game in the Premier League this season and has been limited to just 15 sub appearances.

"Hopefully I am still here to be honest,” Elliott said. "It is the best place to be, the best club to be at and, especially having the fans around us at the moment, I don't think there is a better place to be playing.

“Players go through ups and downs but, at the end of the day, you have to come out fighting and I think it is within myself to make it happen. So hopefully I can stay here for the rest of my career.

"I hope I can push on [next season]. This is my team, I am committed to them and it's just a situation that is always going to have a lot of talk. I just need to think about what is best for my future, my career and, as much as I want it to be here, you never know what is going to happen around the corner.

“If I had it my way, that would be here, I would play each and every game here and stay here for the rest of my career but it all depends on managers, the people above and, as I said, you don't know what could happen. But as far as I am aware, I am here to stay and this is the club I want to be at.”

Winning the Europa League could be pivotal for Man United

Gabby Agbonlahor believes that Tottenham are under more pressure to win the Europa League than Man United, with Ruben Amorim’s side potentially on the way back to the top if they win the tournament.

He told talkSPORT Breakfast: “I think it’s different for Man United than it is for Spurs. He (Amorim) hasn’t had the transfer windows that Ange Postecoglou has had.

“He’s barely brought any players in and he’s not been there for a season yet.

“If Man United do win it then it turns out to be a really good season. I know it’s hard to say that because their Premier League positions are similar but Man United could win the Europa League, be in the Champions League and they’re a massive club so they’d attract big names anyway.

“Before you know it, if you have a good summer of transfers out and transfers in then Man United are on their way back to being in the elite.”

Lamine Yamal 'better than Lionel Messi'

Lamine Yamal is already better than Lionel Messi was at this age, according to Ronald De Boer.

The 17-year-old lit up the Champions League clash with Inter and is showing that he's on track to rival Messi's achievements in the game.

De Boer told talkSPORT: "I got a message from Henk ten Cate who was the assistant coach at Barcelona under Frank Rijkaard when Messi made his debut against Espanyol and he said that Yamal is further than Messi at this age.

“Messi started really when he was 21 or something so at this age, he’s better than Messi when he was 16, 17 or 18 so that says something.

“For me, the only difference is the consistency. Messi stayed on for 10, 12, 13 years at an unbelievable level – can Yamal do that? Can he keep the hunger? Can he stay fit? Can he keep both feet on the ground?"

Rodri returns

Wow, look who's back for Manchester City...

Rodri is in full training after recovering from his ACL injury that ruled him out of the majority of the season.

The Ballon d'Or winner suffered the serious injury against Arsenal in September and hasn't played a game since.

However, hopes have always been there for a potential return before the end of the campaign ahead of the Club World Cup.

And now, he's back in training with four Premier League games to go, proving he may be fit to feature again this season.

City face Wolves on Friday, but that game will come too soon for Rodri, as Pep Guardiola is sure to be careful with minutes.

He could potentially be in the squad for league games against Southampton, Bournemouth and Fulham.

After the Saints clash is the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace, so to have Rodri back for that would be a massive boost.

But the chances of any risks being taken so soon after a long-term injury remain slim.

Too much pressure?

Ahead of Man United's potentially season-defining night in Spain, Ruben Amorim has spoken about pressure.

The Red Devils boss was asked whether the weight of playing for the club, as well as the weight of the situation, could be too much.

He responded: “No. I think they [the players] are prepared.

"If you see this team, maybe with some problems during the years, they were able to win cups and that was also a pressure.

"Especially the FA Cup is a big thing in our league. They are prepared, every player is an international. The context this season is really complicated in every aspect, so I don’t see that as an issue.

"They are excited to be here, they want to win, they are capable of winning. It could change our summer, it could change the next year, but if we want to improve the club, we should not be focused on this.

"It’s not the most important thing in our club. We have to deal with a lot of things in our club and we’ll be fine, with or without Champions League.”

Pitch complaints

Chelsea are potentially going to have a tough night in the Europa Conference League against Djurgarden.

The Swedish side play on artificial grass and their own players have been complaining about their pitch.

Winger Adam Stahl and striker August Priske have taken aim at the surface, with manager Jani Honkavaara questioning it too.

Due to worries over the passing on the surface, Chelsea’s possession-heavy tactics and building from the back plan could go wrong.

And speaking on the matter, Blues manager Enzo Maresca has admitted: "It's completely different.

"I know that in the last weeks, even some of their players were complaining about the pitch.

"They play every week, so for us it's a different one.

"But there are no excuses, no reasons why we are not going to compete in this game and the second game at all."

'Not on any planet'

Ange Postecoglou has hit back at claims that Spurs winning the Europa League is the same as Man United winning the FA Cup.

The Red Devils won the FA Cup last season, seemingly painting over the cracks of a poor year under Erik ten Hag.

That result saved Ten Hag's job, albeit for a short time, and that brings parallels to Postecoglou at Tottenham.

His side have had an awful year in the Premier League, but success in Europe could well see the campaign end in glory.

Postecoglou said: "I am really strong at the moment on the parallel worlds we are trying to traverse and I have sensed, which is not surprising because this is the way this club is perceived, people are almost trying to diminish it in some respects.

"I have seen some people saying it is the equivalent of Man Utd winning the FA Cup, no. Not on any planet is it equivalent. That is suggesting that maybe we are not worthy of Champions League.

"Things are there that are designed to diminish what is ahead of us, which is an unbelievable opportunity.

"Irrespective of how this season has gone, we have generations of fans who want this more than anything else - to share this with the people that they love, a special moment supporting their football club.

"We could be flying in the league, but it wouldn't make this opportunity any different. The opportunity is the same and I have made that clear to the players."

New Leeds stadium must keep fear factor - Jordan

Simon Jordan is hopeful that Leeds United’s new stadium plans can keep Elland Road as one of the most intimidating arenas in the country.

Earlier this week the club unveiled pictures of plans to increase the stadium’s capacity from 37,645 to 53,000 as part of a modernisation project.

Councillors will now be discussing the pre-application phase of the process ahead of Leeds’ return to the Premier League.

Should the plans go ahead it will be a big upgrade for one of England’s most iconic stadiums, or as Jordan puts it, England’s most intimidating.

The former Crystal Palace owner said: “Having been an owner and gone round most of the stadiums, all of the significant ones in the Premier League and Championship, I always felt that the one that always stood out as the most intimidating atmosphere wise was Leeds.

“I don’t know why, at the time we played them they weren’t in good nick, Dennis Wise was managing them which always has its challenges when Dennis is involved, and they were in a league way below what you think Leeds should be involved in which was League One.

“Yet you still got this feeling… It’s certainly a big, big football club and the nature of that stadium, going to 56,000 with a fanbase that can fill it quite easily and probably has waiting lists.”

Saudi Pro League target three Premier League stars

Emiliano Martinez, Leon Bailey and Darwin Nunez are the targets of another Saudi Pro League swoop as they prepare for a statement summer.

The two Aston Villa players could aid the club’s PSR worries while Nunez, who has become surplus to requirements at Liverpool, could fund a new forward’s incoming.

This season was the first in which the £100million sale of Jack Grealish has not given Villa a boost in relation to PSR calculations.

It is a problem worsened by a wage bill which meant wages as a proportion of turnover hit 91 percent - the highest of any Premier League club.

Ollie Watkins has been linked with a move away but Martinez and Bailey could be the ones to follow in the footsteps of former teammates Moussa Diaby and Jhon Duran.

“There is concrete interest from Saudi Arabia in both,” said talkSPORT's Saudi football correspondent Ben Jacobs.

“I’m expecting another big Saudi window much like in summer 2023. They’ll come in waves because there are foreign quotas.”

'I hope to stay'

Harvey Elliott has revealed that he wants to stay at Liverpool this summer, but may have the decision taken out of his hands.

The midfielder is yet to start a game in the Premier League this season and has been limited to just 15 sub appearances.

"Hopefully I am still here to be honest,” Elliott said. "It is the best place to be, the best club to be at and, especially having the fans around us at the moment, I don't think there is a better place to be playing.

“Players go through ups and downs but, at the end of the day, you have to come out fighting and I think it is within myself to make it happen. So hopefully I can stay here for the rest of my career.

"I hope I can push on [next season]. This is my team, I am committed to them and it's just a situation that is always going to have a lot of talk. I just need to think about what is best for my future, my career and, as much as I want it to be here, you never know what is going to happen around the corner.

“If I had it my way, that would be here, I would play each and every game here and stay here for the rest of my career but it all depends on managers, the people above and, as I said, you don't know what could happen. But as far as I am aware, I am here to stay and this is the club I want to be at.”

Winning the Europa League could be pivotal for Man United

Gabby Agbonlahor believes that Tottenham are under more pressure to win the Europa League than Man United, with Ruben Amorim’s side potentially on the way back to the top if they win the tournament.

He told talkSPORT Breakfast: “I think it’s different for Man United than it is for Spurs. He (Amorim) hasn’t had the transfer windows that Ange Postecoglou has had.

“He’s barely brought any players in and he’s not been there for a season yet.

“If Man United do win it then it turns out to be a really good season. I know it’s hard to say that because their Premier League positions are similar but Man United could win the Europa League, be in the Champions League and they’re a massive club so they’d attract big names anyway.

“Before you know it, if you have a good summer of transfers out and transfers in then Man United are on their way back to being in the elite.”

Mbeumo could leave Brentford - Thomas Frank

Thomas Frank has admitted that Brentford could lose Bryan Mbeumo this summer to a big-money offer.

He said: "If the right price — and that’s going to be expensive — is coming, then I’m sure the club will be open to it.

“I’ve said many times: we are a selling club.

"But at the same time we have to reinforce that there are 10 clubs in the world who aren’t selling clubs.”

Asked how he would replace Mbeumo, Frank said: "I lost Neal Maupay, Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney as three key strikers that were 25 goals plus.

"Every season we replace the goals with other players so I am confident that we can do it again.”

Lamine Yamal 'better than Lionel Messi'

Lamine Yamal is already better than Lionel Messi was at this age, according to Ronald De Boer.

The 17-year-old lit up the Champions League clash with Inter and is showing that he's on track to rival Messi's achievements in the game.

De Boer told talkSPORT: "I got a message from Henk ten Cate who was the assistant coach at Barcelona under Frank Rijkaard when Messi made his debut against Espanyol and he said that Yamal is further than Messi at this age.

“Messi started really when he was 21 or something so at this age, he’s better than Messi when he was 16, 17 or 18 so that says something.

“For me, the only difference is the consistency. Messi stayed on for 10, 12, 13 years at an unbelievable level – can Yamal do that? Can he keep the hunger? Can he stay fit? Can he keep both feet on the ground?"

Rodri returns

Wow, look who's back for Manchester City...

Rodri is in full training after recovering from his ACL injury that ruled him out of the majority of the season.

The Ballon d'Or winner suffered the serious injury against Arsenal in September and hasn't played a game since.

However, hopes have always been there for a potential return before the end of the campaign ahead of the Club World Cup.

And now, he's back in training with four Premier League games to go, proving he may be fit to feature again this season.

City face Wolves on Friday, but that game will come too soon for Rodri, as Pep Guardiola is sure to be careful with minutes.

He could potentially be in the squad for league games against Southampton, Bournemouth and Fulham.

After the Saints clash is the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace, so to have Rodri back for that would be a massive boost.

But the chances of any risks being taken so soon after a long-term injury remain slim.

'Concentrate on the now'

Ange Postecoglou has been speaking about the two ends of the scale when it comes to the Premier League and Europa League.

His Spurs side are having a nightmare domestic season, but in Europe, they've managed to reach the semi-finals.

Ahead of their huge tie against Bodo/Glimt, Postecoglou discussed the different feelings on each campaign.

He also referenced concerns over his future at the club, putting that to the back of his mind in the build-up to tomorrow's game.

The Spurs boss said: "I get we are trying to run two parallel things of a really disappointing season in terms of the league.

"But I just don't think we can concentrate on anything other than an unbelievable opportunity we have before us.

"Irrespective of what kind of season you have, how often will you be in this position? History tells you not that often. Even the strongest clubs.

"So any thought of what is going to happen next year or what has happened this year, I just don't think is really of any importance.

"If you ask any Tottenham supporter what is at the forefront of your mind, what is going to happen next year or us trying to get to a final of Europe and the opportunity to win some silverware, I think the answer would be to concentrate on the now and that is what I am doing."

Backing the boss

Tottenham's James Maddison has backed manager Ange Postecoglou whose future seems to lie on Europa League success.

Maddison also labelled the narrative of pressure being on Postecoglou as 'not healthy' and revealed that he and the squad remain hopeful of a 'special season'.

"We are behind the manager 100%," he said. "I think he's a great man.

"We have had a poor season, especially in the league. We've been very good in Europe, but the league season has been unacceptable.

"He's my manager, he's my gaffer and I respect him an awful amount.

"And listen, the narrative [of Postecoglou's position being under threat] is something we players are trying to keep away from because it's not healthy.

"I just know that I come into work everyday and see the lads listening and taking on the messages on how he wants us to play and doing the best for this club and we are in a real good position in Europe, where we can still have a special season under his management.

"I will continue to do that until the day he isn't here. He's my manager and I respect him an awful amount and that will continue."

New sponsor

You may have noticed throughout the season that Chelsea have been playing without a front-of-shirt sponsor.

Well, that's not going to be the case for their final few games.

The Blues have announced that they have partenered with DAMAC Properties who will become their sponsor for the rest of the season.

The first game with the new sponsor will be tomorrow night as Chelsea face Djurgarden in the Europa Conference League.

The club have also revealed that there will be a branded residency being built in Dubai as part of the partnership.

A statement read: "DAMAC Properties has been at the forefront of the Middle East’s luxury real estate market. An ultra-modern development, Chelsea Residences by DAMAC, is being designed and launched in partnership with Chelsea FC in Dubai, slated to be the first-of-its-kind football-themed branded residences.

"The new development will be built with Chelsea Football Club's famous brand woven into the fabric, from its concierge service to its high-performance spaces. It will reflect the very best of Chelsea FC both in terms of high-end style, commitment to excellence and vision for the future.

"To showcase this groundbreaking, global partnership and celebrate the launch of the first-ever Chelsea Football Club branded residences, DAMAC Properties will feature on Chelsea FC men’s and women’s shirts for the remainder of the 24/25 season, with its debut at the UEFA Conference League semi-final fixture against Djurgarden this Thursday."

Spurs blow

Tottenham Hotspur won't have their captain back for their crucial Europa League semi-final tomorrow night.

Heung-min Son was missing from training today as Spurs get ready for the biggest fixture of their season.

As the squad prepared to face Bodo/Glimt in North London, Son didn't join them on the pitch.

He was absent for the quarter-final second leg against Eintracht Frankfurt and hasn't played since April 10.

Ange Postecoglou has kept up hope that his skipper would be fit for this tie, however, it seems he's not.

The South Korean's foot injury looks to be keeping him out for even longer and his involvement in either leg is in major doubt.

Postecoglou will likely give an update on Son in his pre-match press conference later this afternoon.

'He always gets cooked'

Micah Richards had another rough night on CBS Sports' coverage of the Champions League.

The former Manchester City and Aston Villa defender always seems to get the short straw when being introduced.

And last night was no different, with host Kate Scott giving Thierry Henry and Jamie Carragher nice intros.

But after mentioning the Arsenal connection for Henry and of course, Liverpool for Carragher, Scott then took aim at Richards' apparent lack of loyalty.

She said: "Micah Richards, he rides with too many clubs to know what he really feels.

"After having a down on Saturday when Villa lost in the semi-finals of the FA Cup, he bounced back on Sunday when Man City won their semi. Money might buy you an ambassador, but it can't buy you love."

Richards burst out into laughter after the comments while fans on social media had his back.

One fan wrote: "Poor Micah, he always gets cooked."

Another said: "Micah is a good sport , I would’ve fired back naturally as banter."

"Kate is wicked," a third wrote with a laughing emoji.

Stepping back

Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has paused his involvement in the club.

His decision comes with Forest preparing for Champions League football next season, as they eye a top-five finish.

Marinakis has suspended his interest in the club to comply with UEFA regulations on multi-club ownership.

The Greek billionaire owns Olympiakos too, and two clubs with the same ownership cannot compete in the same competition.

If Forest and Olympiakos both qualify for the Champions League with Marinakis in charge, one of them would have to pull out.

So Marinakis has stepped back from Forest for now, meaning he will have no control or influence on the club's business next season.

UEFA stipulations say that the decision had to be made by the end of this month to avoid any rule breaches.

Telegraph Sport report that despite Marinakis' decision to pause his involvement, he remains fully committed to Forest.

A welcome sight

Now, here's some good news for Man United fans.

Amad Diallo is back in full training for the first time since the start of February after recovering from his injury.

The winger, who was in fine form before picking up a knock, has been sidelined with ankle ligament damage.

But he's been filmed in training ahead of United's huge clash against Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League semi-finals.

It's still unclear whether he will travel with the Red Devils squad to Spain for the game tomorrow night.

If he is involved though, it would be a major boost for Ruben Amorim as he would get one of his most dangerous attackers back available to feature at a pivotal time.

Centre-back Matthijs De Ligt has also been in training again following a few weeks in the treatment room.

Long-awaited reunion

David De Gea is set to return to Old Trafford this summer.

No, sadly for Man United fans, he's not re-joining the club.

But the goalkeeper will be playing in a friendly against his former side for Fiorentina in August.

United announced this morning that they will take on the Italian side in their final pre-season fixture before the new season.

It means De Gea will make a comeback to Manchester for the first time since his departure in July 2023.

The Spaniard has been superb for Fiorentina this campaign, re-finding his best form after a year without a club.

Honest assessment

Arsenal fan Piers Morgan has given his thoughts on the Gunners' defeat to PSG, identifying their tactical issues.

He also took aim at captain Martin Odegaard for his lack of creativity on the ball when his side are attacking.

"One of the issues Arsenal have is that we don't have enough players that drive forward," Morgan told talkSPORT.

"One of the problems last night tactically was that because Partey wasn't playing, Rice had to fall back and I much prefer Rice in a more forward position, much more aggressive and fueling Martinelli, Saka and the others and he couldn't do that much last night."

He continued: "And Odegaard just isn't playing at the same level as he was last season or the season before.

"He seems to be hesitant when he gets the ball to do something creative, instead he wants to release it quickly, normally sideways.

"I kept shouting: 'Can we please move forward!' because what was interesting about PSG was they got the ball, they moved at pace and they wanted the ball."

On PSG, Morgan added: "I thought the young kid Doue was sensational and the best player on the pitch by a mile was Kvaratskhelia.

"That's one of the best performances I've seen at the Emirates since the stadium was created.

"They played as a team in a way that we never saw when they had all the Galacticos [Messi, Neymar, Mbappe] playing there. They've got a much better team."

"Arsenal have to wake up," he summarised. "It's going to be a cauldron in Paris, but I've got every confidence we can win.

"But we're going to have to look at the level of intensity and ask how much do you want this?"

'It was embarrassing'

talkSPORT's Gabby Agbonlahor has criticised the Arsenal atmosphere at the Emirates for their massive clash against PSG.

Mikel Arteta released a motivational video pre-match to get fans up for the fixture, while a tifo was revealed as the players walked out.

However, the atmosphere and tifo have been heavily criticised online since and Agbonlahor was left wanting more too.

"Arsenal fans...come on," he said on talkSPORT Breakfast.

"You've got your manager giving this big speech, Arsenal fans turn up, the tifo...I don't know what that was.

"That was horrendous. It was like my seven-year-old had done it at school for a project and brought it to the stadium and asked if they could hang it up.

"It was embarrassing. They were quiet. I was sat watching it like come on, this is the semi-final of the Champions League.

"Look at what Liverpool have done at Anfield, what Aston Villa have done against PSG. Do they need a man with a speaker behind the goal saying: 'Sing, sing, sing'?

Not good enough

Jamie O'Hara and Jason Cundy have slammed Arsenal for their performance against Paris Saint-Germain last night.

The Gunners were beaten 1-0 at the Emirates in their huge Champions League semi-final first leg.

They now have to go to France next week with the tough task of coming from behind to turn the tie around.

O'Hara and Cundy assessed Mikel Arteta's side's performance on talkSPORT's Sports Bar after the game.

"Arsenal weren't good enough, they didn't take enough risks with the ball, it was very sideways, sideways, sideways, no one penetrating through the middle," O'Hara said.

Cundy then added: "They looked nervous, Arsenal.

"The opening 15-20 minutes of the game, I don't think they dealt with PSG very well at all.

"PSG were popping it about from back to front."

Cundy continued: "Goals change games and change the way you feel about it and those first few minutes of the game, Arsenal were not in that semi-final.

"They weren't in it and they had to grow into the game.

"But at the end of the game, how Barcola hasn't scored...how it's not 3-0 at the end."

Ban rescinded

Bournemouth striker Evanilson has had the red card that he received against Manchester United rescinded.

The Brazilian was shown a straight red after catching United defender Noussair Mazraoui high up with a sliding tackle.

Replays showed that he may have slipped before tackling, making the challenge seem more reckless, but after a VAR check, he was still sent off.

Bournemouth appealed the decision in the following days and the FA have now overturned the red card.

A statement read: "An independent Regulatory Commission has removed Evanilson's three-match ban following a successful claim of wrongful dismissal."

Evanilson will now be available for Bournemouth's fixtures against Arsenal, Aston Villa and Manchester City.

Manchester United winning the Europa League may paper over the cracks - Ruben Amorim's position as manager should still be in question.

That's the view of ex-Watford captain Troy Deeney, who believes the Red Devils may have to take lessons from Erik ten Hag's success last season.

The Red Devils are preparing for their semi-final first leg clash in Europe's secondary tournament on Thursday night against Athletic Bilbao.

And should they emerge victorious over their Spanish opponents from the tie, they will face either Bodo/Glimt or Tottenham Hotspur in an all-English final on May 21.

United are looking to scoop silverware for a third consecutive campaign having lifted the Carabao Cup and FA Cup under Ten Hag.

FA Cup glory ultimately kept Ten Hag in a job into the start of this season, despite guiding United to an eighth-placed finish.

Their troubles continued into this term, leading to the Dutchman's dismissal, and their fortunes in the top-flight haven't improved under Amorim.

Languishing in 14th spot with four matches remaining, United will end the season with their lowest position and points tally.

And Deeney has hinted that the United board will have a decision to make regarding Amorim's future, even if he leads them to European success.

Like United, Spurs also struggling this term as they sit in 16th spot with 19 Premier League defeats, but are in contention to end their 17-year long wait for silverware.

Speaking to talkSPORT.com, Deeney was asked which club out of United and Spurs needs to win the Europa League more.

To which the former Birmingham striker said: "Needs? Man United.

"They need to win it more because we expect Man United to win things.

"Even when it was poor under [Erik] Ten Hag, they still won the FA Cup.

"When it's been s*** for Spurs, it's just been s***, they don't win, it's what it is, isn't it?

"So I think who needs it more is Man United.

"Who I'd like to see win it more is Spurs, because I think that fanbase deserves to have something to go and win.

"But do they fall into Man United of last year and that keeps the manager on and the same problems continue?

"I don't know is the honest answer.

"But I think who needs it more is Man United, because there's an expectation that United win things."

For Deeney, he is hoping that both United and Spurs progress into the final, insisting that it will be brilliant for English football.

Arsenal remain in contention to reach the Champions League final, despite losing to Paris Saint-Germain in their first leg at the Emirates.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are favourites to lift the Europa Conference League.

Deeney added: "I'd love for it to be a Man United vs Spurs final, for how bad the season has been for both.

"I think it does the Premier League even more justice.

"We could have Chelsea in [Europa Conference League] final, we could have Arsenal in another [Champions league] final.

"And considering this has been what we consider has been a poor, weakened Premier League, we could still be in the final of every competition.

"But working on talkSPORT week-in, week-out, I can't have Arsenal winning the f****** Champions League."

Should it be an all-English Europa League final, Spurs could have the edge with Ange Postecoglou unbeaten in his five meetings against the Red Devils as Tottenham boss.

He has won on four occasions - beating Amorim in their two encounters so far.

A unique history-making European run, three different managers and a dodgy pitch.

Djurgarden are set to face Chelsea in the semi-finals of the Europa Conference League, ending a 38-year drought in the process.

They are the first Swedish team to reach the last four in Europe since 1987, and now they face the toughest task possible against Chelsea.

Enzo Maresca’s side are major favourites to go all the way in the Conference League and Blues fans are expecting silverware.

The Premier League giants have managed to avoid Fiorentina and Real Betis, who are in the other semi-final, finding Djurgarden on their side of the bracket instead.

On paper, it should be an easy job for Chelsea, considering the entire market value of their opponents’ squad is equivalent to Robert Sanchez’s.

Cole Palmer alone at £110million, according to Transfermarkt, is six times more expensive than the Swedish outfit’s full team.

However, 12-time Allsvenskan champions Djurgarden are certainly not going to be a pushover.

As mentioned, the club, who were founded in 1891 and originally began as a winter sports team, ended a 38-year wait in Sweden for a side to reach the semi-finals of a major European competition.

And they’ve done it in very unusual circumstances compared to other semi-finalists, starting their Conference League campaign all the way back in July last year.

Djurgarden progressed through the second qualifying round, the third qualifying round and play-offs to book their place in the League Phase of the competition.

It meant they had already played six games before things had really got started.

They then began their League Phase fixtures during the run-in of their domestic season, but the Allsvenskan campaign then ended soon after.

So, the club’s main focus from November onwards was the Conference League, trying to keep fit by organising and playing friendlies rather than league games.

Incredibly, they still managed to finish fifth in the League Phase table, and that secured their automatic qualification to the knockout stages.

Despite that, manager Roberth Bjorkenso, who was only in an interim role following the departure of Kim Bergstrand, left the club.

He was replaced by Jani Honkavaara, and he has since led Djurgarden through the knockout stages as their third different boss of the European campaign.

It may have been a chaotic few months, but they managed to beat Pafos to reach the quarter-finals, with only cup fixtures and friendlies preparing them for that huge tie.

The Allsvenskan then restarted again, just over a week before their quarter-final against Rapid Vienna, and that could have made an impact as they lost 1-0 at home in the first leg.

However, they fought back in the second leg, winning 4-1 across normal and extra-time to set up a meeting with Chelsea.

Scoring two pivotal goals in that game was 21-year-old Tobias Fjeld Gulliksen, who looks to be the next young star to come from Djurgarden.

And Gulliksen will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of Lucas Bergvall.

The now-Spurs star left the Swedish side for the Premier League last summer, with Ange Postecoglou’s side beating Barcelona to his signature.

Bergvall made his last appearance for Djurgarden in July 2024 and ahead of his goodbye, he said: "It feels depressing, of course. I enjoy myself here, so it feels really sad to leave everyone here, but I hope to come back at some point.

"Djurgarden has meant an incredible amount to me and has been a big part of my life.”

The teenager spent just over a year at the club, making 47 appearances, and during that time, he was tipped to become their ‘biggest transfer ever’.

And he did, being sold to Spurs for more than double their record departure after catching the eye of some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Bergvall has now just signed a new six-year contract in North London, proving just how highly-rated he is in the Premier League.

Chelsea know all about Bergvall, coming up against him twice in the Premier League this season - but it’s his former club they face next.

And things aren’t expected to be simple for either side in Stockholm.

That’s because Djurgarden’s own players have been complaining about their pitch at their stadium, raising concerns over the artificial grass.

New turf is in place at the 3Arena and winger Adam Stahl, along with striker August Priske, have taken aim at the surface.

There have been complaints over passing the ball and differences to the club’s training ground pitch, with it being described as ‘challenging’.

Manager Honkavaara has also admitted that 'it feels different day to day’ while club members have appealed for the artificial surface to be banned.

However, that has been denied by the board, which stated that: “The issue has already been investigated and pursued by those responsible at Djurgarden Football and that the conclusion is that there are not sufficiently good conditions to change the basis.”

It leaves Djurgarden and Chelsea set to play in uncertain conditions, and that may well impact the Blues’ success.

The Swedes have struggled on their pitch, only scoring one goal in their first three home league games of the season, but Maresca’s men could be heavily impacted too.

With worries over the passing on the surface, Chelsea’s possession-heavy tactics and building from the back plan could go wrong.

So, is there a chance that a huge upset may be on the cards?

It would be an all-time achievement for Djurgarden if they could knock out the Blues, almost a year on from beginning their Conference League campaign.

And a special night in Stockholm could well see them make more history.

Kick-off at the 3Arena on Thursday night is at 8pm.

To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

The pain of being a Tottenham Hotspur fan has never been summed up better than a miserable night in Croatia back in 2021.

Spurs are trying to put past horrors behind them this season and are three games away from doing so in the semi-finals of the Europa League against Bodo/Glimt.

A win in the final would be their first trophy since 2008 and it’s clear manager Ange Postecoglou is all-in having given up on the Premier League.

Yet the Europa doesn’t bring great memories for Spurs, particularly as their last shot at the competition in 2021 ended in the ultimate embarrassment.

Spurs were midway through their second season under Jose Mourinho who’d been hired as chairman Daniel Levy hit the ‘win at all costs’ panic button.

His sophomore season started well and there was even talk of a title charge after a 6-1 win over Manchester United, but as the UK was plunged back into COVID lockdown in the winter, Spurs went back into darkness.

Knocked out of the FA Cup at the fifth round stage and with the title gone, there were two avenues for silverware left for Mourinho - the Europa League and Carabao Cup.

As spring came round so did the Carabao final at Wembley, and attention was clearly pointed in that direction in Europe.

In the last 16 of the Europa, Spurs made the quarter-finals look like a formality thanks to a Harry Kane double in a 2-0 first leg win over Dinamo Zagreb.

To put the tie even further in their favour opposition manager Zoran Mamic was staggeringly jailed between the two games.

Mamic stepped down immediately from his job three days before the home tie having been handed a four-year prison sentence for fraud.

The scales were firmly tipped in Tottenham’s favour, yet over in Croatia, it all went a bit Spursy.

Comfortable until the hour mark at 0-0, Mislav Orsic then put the hosts a goal up with a stunning long-range curler before making it two with a crisp finish in the 82nd minute.

Mourinho’s side couldn’t respond, and in extra time Orsic completed his hat-trick by tearing through midfield for one of the biggest humiliations for not just Tottenham, but Mourinho too.

In an eight minute post-match debrief to the broadcasters, a sullen and stunned Mourinho said: “I don’t need external critics because I feel deeply hurt with what happened with my team. I don’t want to say much more than that.”

He did say much more than that, though, and added: “On behalf of my team, in spite of some of them maybe not sharing my feelings and emotions, I can only apologise to the Tottenham supporters.

“I’m disappointed with the difference of attitude between one team and the other.

“I feel sorry that my team – I belong to that team – is the team that didn’t bring to the game not just the basics of football but, I believe, the basics of life, which is to respect our jobs and to give everything.

“There was one team that decided to leave everything on the pitch, they left sweat, they left energy, they left blood and at the end they left tears of happiness. They were very humble and very committed.

“I prepared my players to play against Orsic, I gave them all the information about him. So I don’t know what else to say.”

This wasn’t a Mourinho PR performance either, with captain Hugo Lloris in complete agreement, adding: “It’s just a disgrace.

“I hope everyone in the changing room feels completely responsible. It’s a disgrace, what can I say? It’s more than painful.”

The result and those around it saw Levy sack Mourinho just over a month later on April 19 a week before the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley.

Backing the boss

Tottenham's James Maddison has backed manager Ange Postecoglou whose future seems to lie on Europa League success.

Maddison also labelled the narrative of pressure being on Postecoglou as 'not healthy' and revealed that he and the squad remain hopeful of a 'special season'.

"We are behind the manager 100%," he said. "I think he's a great man.

"We have had a poor season, especially in the league. We've been very good in Europe, but the league season has been unacceptable.

"He's my manager, he's my gaffer and I respect him an awful amount.

"And listen, the narrative [of Postecoglou's position being under threat] is something we players are trying to keep away from because it's not healthy.

"I just know that I come into work everyday and see the lads listening and taking on the messages on how he wants us to play and doing the best for this club and we are in a real good position in Europe, where we can still have a special season under his management.

"I will continue to do that until the day he isn't here. He's my manager and I respect him an awful amount and that will continue."

New sponsor

You may have noticed throughout the season that Chelsea have been playing without a front-of-shirt sponsor.

Well, that's not going to be the case for their final few games.

The Blues have announced that they have partenered with DAMAC Properties who will become their sponsor for the rest of the season.

The first game with the new sponsor will be tomorrow night as Chelsea face Djurgarden in the Europa Conference League.

The club have also revealed that there will be a branded residency being built in Dubai as part of the partnership.

A statement read: "DAMAC Properties has been at the forefront of the Middle East’s luxury real estate market. An ultra-modern development, Chelsea Residences by DAMAC, is being designed and launched in partnership with Chelsea FC in Dubai, slated to be the first-of-its-kind football-themed branded residences.

"The new development will be built with Chelsea Football Club's famous brand woven into the fabric, from its concierge service to its high-performance spaces. It will reflect the very best of Chelsea FC both in terms of high-end style, commitment to excellence and vision for the future.

"To showcase this groundbreaking, global partnership and celebrate the launch of the first-ever Chelsea Football Club branded residences, DAMAC Properties will feature on Chelsea FC men’s and women’s shirts for the remainder of the 24/25 season, with its debut at the UEFA Conference League semi-final fixture against Djurgarden this Thursday."

Spurs blow

Tottenham Hotspur won't have their captain back for their crucial Europa League semi-final tomorrow night.

Heung-min Son was missing from training today as Spurs get ready for the biggest fixture of their season.

As the squad prepared to face Bodo/Glimt in North London, Son didn't join them on the pitch.

He was absent for the quarter-final second leg against Eintracht Frankfurt and hasn't played since April 10.

Ange Postecoglou has kept up hope that his skipper would be fit for this tie, however, it seems he's not.

The South Korean's foot injury looks to be keeping him out for even longer and his involvement in either leg is in major doubt.

Postecoglou will likely give an update on Son in his pre-match press conference later this afternoon.

'He always gets cooked'

Micah Richards had another rough night on CBS Sports' coverage of the Champions League.

The former Manchester City and Aston Villa defender always seems to get the short straw when being introduced.

And last night was no different, with host Kate Scott giving Thierry Henry and Jamie Carragher nice intros.

But after mentioning the Arsenal connection for Henry and of course, Liverpool for Carragher, Scott then took aim at Richards' apparent lack of loyalty.

She said: "Micah Richards, he rides with too many clubs to know what he really feels.

"After having a down on Saturday when Villa lost in the semi-finals of the FA Cup, he bounced back on Sunday when Man City won their semi. Money might buy you an ambassador, but it can't buy you love."

Richards burst out into laughter after the comments while fans on social media had his back.

One fan wrote: "Poor Micah, he always gets cooked."

Another said: "Micah is a good sport , I would’ve fired back naturally as banter."

"Kate is wicked," a third wrote with a laughing emoji.

Stepping back

Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has paused his involvement in the club.

His decision comes with Forest preparing for Champions League football next season, as they eye a top-five finish.

Marinakis has suspended his interest in the club to comply with UEFA regulations on multi-club ownership.

The Greek billionaire owns Olympiakos too, and two clubs with the same ownership cannot compete in the same competition.

If Forest and Olympiakos both qualify for the Champions League with Marinakis in charge, one of them would have to pull out.

So Marinakis has stepped back from Forest for now, meaning he will have no control or influence on the club's business next season.

UEFA stipulations say that the decision had to be made by the end of this month to avoid any rule breaches.

Telegraph Sport report that despite Marinakis' decision to pause his involvement, he remains fully committed to Forest.

A welcome sight

Now, here's some good news for Man United fans.

Amad Diallo is back in full training for the first time since the start of February after recovering from his injury.

The winger, who was in fine form before picking up a knock, has been sidelined with ankle ligament damage.

But he's been filmed in training ahead of United's huge clash against Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League semi-finals.

It's still unclear whether he will travel with the Red Devils squad to Spain for the game tomorrow night.

If he is involved though, it would be a major boost for Ruben Amorim as he would get one of his most dangerous attackers back available to feature at a pivotal time.

Centre-back Matthijs De Ligt has also been in training again following a few weeks in the treatment room.

Long-awaited reunion

David De Gea is set to return to Old Trafford this summer.

No, sadly for Man United fans, he's not re-joining the club.

But the goalkeeper will be playing in a friendly against his former side for Fiorentina in August.

United announced this morning that they will take on the Italian side in their final pre-season fixture before the new season.

It means De Gea will make a comeback to Manchester for the first time since his departure in July 2023.

The Spaniard has been superb for Fiorentina this campaign, re-finding his best form after a year without a club.

Honest assessment

Arsenal fan Piers Morgan has given his thoughts on the Gunners' defeat to PSG, identifying their tactical issues.

He also took aim at captain Martin Odegaard for his lack of creativity on the ball when his side are attacking.

"One of the issues Arsenal have is that we don't have enough players that drive forward," Morgan told talkSPORT.

"One of the problems last night tactically was that because Partey wasn't playing, Rice had to fall back and I much prefer Rice in a more forward position, much more aggressive and fueling Martinelli, Saka and the others and he couldn't do that much last night."

He continued: "And Odegaard just isn't playing at the same level as he was last season or the season before.

"He seems to be hesitant when he gets the ball to do something creative, instead he wants to release it quickly, normally sideways.

"I kept shouting: 'Can we please move forward!' because what was interesting about PSG was they got the ball, they moved at pace and they wanted the ball."

On PSG, Morgan added: "I thought the young kid Doue was sensational and the best player on the pitch by a mile was Kvaratskhelia.

"That's one of the best performances I've seen at the Emirates since the stadium was created.

"They played as a team in a way that we never saw when they had all the Galacticos [Messi, Neymar, Mbappe] playing there. They've got a much better team."

"Arsenal have to wake up," he summarised. "It's going to be a cauldron in Paris, but I've got every confidence we can win.

"But we're going to have to look at the level of intensity and ask how much do you want this?"

'It was embarrassing'

talkSPORT's Gabby Agbonlahor has criticised the Arsenal atmosphere at the Emirates for their massive clash against PSG.

Mikel Arteta released a motivational video pre-match to get fans up for the fixture, while a tifo was revealed as the players walked out.

However, the atmosphere and tifo have been heavily criticised online since and Agbonlahor was left wanting more too.

"Arsenal fans...come on," he said on talkSPORT Breakfast.

"You've got your manager giving this big speech, Arsenal fans turn up, the tifo...I don't know what that was.

"That was horrendous. It was like my seven-year-old had done it at school for a project and brought it to the stadium and asked if they could hang it up.

"It was embarrassing. They were quiet. I was sat watching it like come on, this is the semi-final of the Champions League.

"Look at what Liverpool have done at Anfield, what Aston Villa have done against PSG. Do they need a man with a speaker behind the goal saying: 'Sing, sing, sing'?

Not good enough

Jamie O'Hara and Jason Cundy have slammed Arsenal for their performance against Paris Saint-Germain last night.

The Gunners were beaten 1-0 at the Emirates in their huge Champions League semi-final first leg.

They now have to go to France next week with the tough task of coming from behind to turn the tie around.

O'Hara and Cundy assessed Mikel Arteta's side's performance on talkSPORT's Sports Bar after the game.

"Arsenal weren't good enough, they didn't take enough risks with the ball, it was very sideways, sideways, sideways, no one penetrating through the middle," O'Hara said.

Cundy then added: "They looked nervous, Arsenal.

"The opening 15-20 minutes of the game, I don't think they dealt with PSG very well at all.

"PSG were popping it about from back to front."

Cundy continued: "Goals change games and change the way you feel about it and those first few minutes of the game, Arsenal were not in that semi-final.

"They weren't in it and they had to grow into the game.

"But at the end of the game, how Barcola hasn't scored...how it's not 3-0 at the end."

'I need you'

Mikel Arteta has called for all Arsenal fans to get behind the team tonight in a video posted on social media.

The Gunners boss directly spoke to supporters, asking them to 'play every pass' with the players against PSG at the Emirates.

There is sure to be a superb atmosphere in North London later on as they look to take a huge step towards Champions League glory.

A win tonight would put them on the brink of their first final in this competition since 2006.

In the video, Arteta says: "It's our time. It's time to make it happen.

"I need you, I need the person next to you. I need that connection. I want you to play every single ball with us. Every pass, every tackle, every run, every decision.

"You need to live the energy of the stadium and the people next to you. I count on you. Let's make it happen."

'The biggest games of our career'

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo knows just how important the end of the season is for his side.

Forest are on the brink of a Champions League place, with a win against Brentford on Thursday moving them closer.

If they beat the Bees, they'd move back to third in the table with four more games to play this campaign.

They know that if they win all of their fixtures, they will be playing in UEFA's top tier competition next season.

Speaking about the pressure on his team, Espirito Santo said: "All the games are going to be very, very important for a lot of teams in this fight, we have one more, let's try to perform well.

"We are back in the City Ground in front of our fans [on Thursday against Brentford], it's a big help.

"We have never stopped believing, no matter what happens.

"Throughout the competition, we have had good moments and bad moments and we have been able to react and again it is up to us to react again.

"All the games are the biggest games of our career, this is how we approach it.

"We are only thinking about Brentford now, that is the only think we have to consider now in our minds, is to compete against them.

"It's in our hands, that's a big advantage."

Yes Ndidi

Leicester midfielder Wilfred Ndidi will be available for a cut price this summer due to a clause in his contract.

The Nigerian, who was signed by the Foxes for £17million in 2017, has a £9million release clause, talkSPORT understands.

It was activated after the club were confirmed to be relegated from the Premier League this season.

Crystal Palace, Fulham and Everton are all interested in Ndidi.

Saudi side Al-Ahli also have the midfielder on their radar although they are yet to make any approach.

Ndidi was linked with a move away last campaign, however, he signed a new three-year deal at the club instead.

But it seems the clause was added into that contract to allow him the option to depart should relegation occur.

And now it has, his future looks likely to be away from Leicester.

Pogback

Could Paul Pogba be set to return to football?

Well, the World Cup winner, who is free to play again after a doping ban, is said to be 'in talks' about a comeback.

It's not in the competition you'd expect, though, as Pogba may be set to feature in the Baller League.

Speaking last night during commentary, Baller League UK president KSI hinted at a potential huge transfer.

When asked about a realistic wildcard that could join the league, he said: "Pogba. He's a free agent.

"We do [follow each other on social media] and we are in talks."

On which team Pogba could join, KSI added: "I think a player of that calibre would have to play for N5."

N5 are a team managed by Arsenal Invincibles Jens Lehmann, Freddie Ljungberg and Robert Pires.

So we could well see Pogba under the management of some footballing icons in the six-a-side scene.

Transfer news

Manchester City will NOT allow Jack Grealish to leave on loan this summer, talkSPORT understands.

Grealish has been linked with clubs including Aston Villa and Tottenham after starting only seven Premier League games this season.

The England international spoke openly about his frustrations at a lack of playing time after scoring against Leicester last month.

But with Kevin De Bruyne leaving the Etihad at the end of the season and Kyle Walker having already departed, Grealish is seen as one of the senior heads in the dressing room.

City know they would not be able to recoup the £100million they paid to trigger the 29-year-old’s Aston Villa release clause and are reluctant to weaken the squad by sanctioning a temporary departure.

Grealish is also understood to be settled in the north west and his inclusion in the starting line-up for Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final win over Nottingham Forest was seen as positive by his camp.

You can read more on the latest transfer news in Alex Crook's Notebook below...

Emulating Wenger

Arsenal legend Lee Dixon has praised Mikel Arteta for ending a 'toxic' environment at the Emirates.

He believes that the Gunners manager has achieved what legendary boss Arsene Wenger also created at the club.

And it means the atmosphere inside the stadium this evening for the clash against PSG is going to be special.

Dixon said on talkSPORT Breakfast this morning: "You have to give great credit to Mikel Arteta because it was toxic not that long ago, that stadium.

"To bring it back to where it is now and what it's going to be like tonight, I can't wait to get there, he's done all that, him and his team and the club have created an environment that gives the players a platform to be able to go and do their best.

"That takes me back to Arsene Wenger, that was his strength. The ability to put the players into a place both physically and mentally that gets the best out of every single one of them."

Not happy

PSG manager Luis Enrique has hit back at the media for their negative approach to questioning about his team.

At his press conference, reporters asked about Vitinha's dip in form, their group stage results and set-piece defending.

But Enrique was having none of it, saying before his side face Arsenal: "No one is talking about the goals or the games we've won, let's talk about our defeats, that's fine.

"You can say everything you want, you can send everything my way. Our mindset is wonderful.

"The most unhappy or sad member of the squad is me, so you can just imagine what the others are doing."

He then added: "Let me just specify. Maybe I am getting things wrong, but when I'm talking about the negative climate, I'm not talking about the fans or the staff within the club.

"But yeah, the questions coming from the media and even the questions the journalists ask, I think it is quite negative, but maybe that's just me."

'The biggest the Emirates has seen'

Arsenal are set for their most pivotal game of the season this evening as they take on Paris Saint-Germain.

The Gunners reached the Champions League semi-finals by spectacularly knocking out Real Madrid in the quarters.

But now they have to back it up against a PSG side who have already eliminated both Aston Villa and Liverpool.

So much is riding on success in Europe for Mikel Arteta's side, with this being their only hope for silverware this campaign.

And Arteta has labelled this first leg as one of the biggest for the club since they built the Emirates.

He said at his pre-match press conference: "It does [feel like the biggest game of my life] and you sense it, you sense the energy, the enthusiasm that it's something unique.

"It's probably one of the biggest games that the Emirates have seen since we built it. We're full of energy, enthusiasm and can't wait to play the game."

Relocation, Relocation, Relocation

Twickenham could host Chelsea matches should they need to play away from Stamford Bridge during redevelopment.

The Blues have held long-term interest in upgrading their home ground, whilst a move to Earl's Court has also become an option.

Should they redevelop Stamford Bridge, The Guardian report that they could move to fellow south-west London venue Twickenham.

It's currently the home of the England national rugby union team, with RFU CEO Bill Sweeney hinting that the Blues could play there.

"It [the RFU] would allow it to happen. There have been conversations previously about possible Premiership [sic] clubs coming here.

"Richmond council, Richmond borough is more concerned about that. I just think in terms of impact on local residents, numbers of fans and so on they’re a little bit more sensitive.

"It may depend on which club it is. It would be a big financial number, I know Richmond borough would definitely have a conversation about that though."

Tottenham will look to salvage their season against Bodo/Glimt in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final this week.

Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou knows that delivering a first European trophy in 41 years is likely his only hope of saving his job.

Liverpool being crowned Premier League champions after a 5-1 hammering at Tottenham's expense overshadowed the current crisis.

It was the Lilywhites' 19th top-flight defeat of the season - only the three already relegated teams in the division have had more.

Tottenham are 23 points adrift of the top five, and Europa League glory is their only realistic route back into the Champions League.

Tottenham vs Bodo/Glimt: Spurred on

Dominic Solanke will be relishing a return to his favoured competition after finally finding some form in front of goal.

The England striker scored the crucial matchwinner from the penalty spot away to Eintracht Frankfurt in the quarter-finals, having not scored a single goal since January.

In fact, prior to that second-leg tie, Solanke hadn't even had a shot on target in the six games.

However, that goal proved the catalyst for the 27-year-old ending his Premier League drought against his former club Liverpool on Sunday.

While the Reds' comeback made that header redundant, Tottenham fans will be desperate for Solanke to take his form into Europe.

The ex-Bournemouth forward has been involved in seven UEFA Europa League goals this season (3 goals, 4 assists), the most by a Spurs player in a campaign since Carlos Vinicius in 2020-21 (6 goals, 3 assists).

The only Englishmen with more in one season for any team are James Tavernier for Rangers in 2021-22 (7 goals, 2 assists) and Bobby Zamora for Fulham in 2009-10 (6 goals, 2 assists).

Tottenham Hotspur and Bodø/Glimt have never previously faced each other in any competition. Spurs have won all four of their previous European games against Norwegian teams, beating Lyn 6-3 (away) and 6-0 (home) in the 1972-73 UEFA Cup and Tromsø 3-0 (home) and 2-0 (away) in the 2013-14 UEFA Europa League.

Bodø/Glimt have lost all three of their European meetings with English clubs, losing home and away against Arsenal in the 2022-23 UEFA Europa League, while they lost 3-2 away at Man Utd earlier this campaign in the group stages.

This is Tottenham Hotspur’s ninth major European semi-final and first since the 2018-19 UEFA Champions League against Ajax. They’ve lost the first leg of their last two semi-finals (1-2 vs Hajduk Split in 1983-84 UEFA Cup, 0-1 vs Ajax in 2019) but recovered each time to reach the final.

Tottenham vs Bodo/Glimt: Team news

First-choice centre-back pairing Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero will be restored to the XI after being rested at Anfield.

Spurs captain Heung-min Son remains a fitness doubt for the hosts, with Radu Dragusin, Antonin Kinsky and Timo Werner unavailable.

The visitors, meanwhile, are without Andreas Helmersen, Patrick Berg and Hakon Evjen through suspension for the trip to north London.

Key defender Odin Bjortuft is also a doubt after being forced off with a groin injury during the victory over KFUM.

Bodø/Glimt are the first Norwegian side in European football history to reach the semi-final of a major competition. It’s the first time there will be a country’s team represented in the final four for the first time since Ukraine’s Dynamo Kyiv reached the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in 1998-99.

Including qualifiers, Tottenham Hotspur are unbeaten in their last 19 home matches in European competitions (W15 D4) since losing 1-0 to RB Leipzig in February 2020. It’s the longest ongoing run of any English side who has featured in Europe this season.

Bodø/Glimt have lost each of their last three away UEFA Europa League matches, all in the knockout stages, and have won just once away from home in 10 attempts (D3 L6), a 2-1 win at Braga in the group stage this season. The only two teams to lose the away leg of the last 16, quarter-final and semi-final and reach a Europa League final are Ajax in 2016-17 and Rangers in 2021-22.

Tottenham vs Bodo/Glimt: What has been said?

Postecoglou must make good on his promise to deliver Tottenham silverware this season - or he runs the risk of being sacked.

That's the opinion of Arsenal legend Martin Keown, who believes the Australian's future lies in achieving Europa League glory this term.

He told talkSPORT.com: "Remarkably, if they win the Europa League, they can make it into the Champions League, which is just incredible.

"We could have six Premier League teams playing in the Champions League next year, that would be something to behold.

"He's [Postecoglou] got that in the locker, it could certainly happen for him. Would he still stay in the job?

"Manchester United won the FA Cup last year and a lot of people said that tainted really what was happening, it papered over the cracks.

"But I think if he wins that [Europa League], it gives him time, it gives him another season.

"And then if he keeps his players fit, he can impact the Premier League.

"But right now, they're too low down in the visions for that, for a Spurs team to be really taken seriously right now."

Bodø/Glimt have made 296 tackles in this season’s UEFA Europa League, the most by a side in one season since 2017-18, when Marseille (309) and FC Red Bull Salzburg (346) made that many. Midfielder Patrick Berg has made a record 63 tackles this season, although he is suspended for this first leg.

Tottenham Hotspur have given 36 UEFA Europa League appearances to teenagers this season, the most by an English club in a season, and 26 starts by teenagers are the joint most with Man Utd in 2019-20.

Bodø/Glimt manager Kjetil Knutsen is the second Norwegian manager to take charge of a UEFA Europa League semi-final, along with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in 2019-20 and 2020-21 for Man Utd. Norwegian managers have lost all eight Europa League games against English teams, however.

Tottenham vs Bodo/Glimt: talkSPORT coverage

This Europa League semi-final first-leg is set to take place on Thursday, May 1.

Kick-off at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is scheduled for 8pm.

talkSPORT will have live coverage from north London via the talkSPORT App.

Commentary will come from Alex Crook and former England defender Alvin Martin.

talkSPORT.com will also have updates in our dedicated live Europa League blog.

To tune in to talkSPORT through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

Listen via the talkSPORT app here, or on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

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Tottenham need to raise money to sign any new players this summer, and it won't come from Daniel Levy.

That's according to football finance expert Stefan Borson, who says Spurs will need to sell some of their stars or benefit from a cash injection to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.

Ange Postecoglou is feeling the heat with Tottenham sitting in 16th position in the Premier League table.

That means winning the Europa League is the club's only hope of securing European football next term with the winners of the tournament earning a back door route into the Champions League.

Qualification would certainly boost the club's coffers and offer them extra funds with which to do business.

As it stands, Spurs are able to spend around £200million this summer without breaching PSR rules.

However, for the club to do any significant transfer business the onus will be on the club to raise funds - whether that comes via player sales or a cash injection from the club's stakeholders.

Asked if the news of Tottenham situation surprises him, Borson told White and Jordan: "All it does is confirm what Simon said a few weeks ago about cashflow.

“You have to separate a few things including Financial Fair Play – they’re clear on PSR and so there’s no issue there.

“From a budgetary perspective they’re £30m or maybe £40m down on where they’re expected to be. They could finish 17th and they probably expected seventh as a worst case – they’re ten points off and so they’re £30m off their budget for merit payments.

“Of course they may get Champions League but if they don’t then they have a huge hole in the P&L [profit and loss] for next season as well because I expect that they budgeted for at least Conference, maybe Europa, and that might have been worth £20m for next season, but there’s going to be a zero if there’s no Europe at all.

“So you’ve got the PSR situation, the budget situation and then you’ve got Simon’s point which is all about cash.

“It’s all well and good having this capacity but actually if you don’t have the pounds and pence for what’s due which is around £250m in historic transfer fees, instalments on those, the wages, the debt service and the running costs to the club.

“They are very, very significant here.

“Daniel Levy is not in a position to put any more money in. He’s a very wealthy guy because of his holding of shares, but unless he sells those shares he doesn’t have the cash to put into the club.

“That leaves the Lewis Trust - not Joe Lewis himself – the Lewis Trust being effectively the only funder around for Spurs from a cash perspective because they can’t raise any more debt.

“On top of that, they potentially have some covenant issues and so the problem they’re going to have is nothing to do with Financial Fair Play, it’s to do with actual cash. How do they actually pay for things?

“Unless they either raise money from one of their shareholders or sell some footballers, they won’t have the cash to pay for new footballers.”

Borson added: “When we talk about selling players, they don’t have to be selling their best players for cash. It’s not a case of needing to make a profit on Richarlison, for example.

“They could afford to sell Richarlison for a loss from a financial PSR perspective.

“If they sold him to Saudi for £20m, that would still give them what they need in terms of the £20m and of course they’ll have to take the impact from a P&L perspective – profit loss – which they can absorb.

“It’s not a critical situation from a survival of the club point of view.”

Tottenham's Europa League fate will be decided within the next two weeks as they face Bodo/Glimt for a place in the competition's final - starting with the first leg on home soil on Thursday.