talkSPORT

UEFA have acted quickly after they unintentionally rubbed salt into the wounds of Tottenham Hotspur fans.

The official Europa League account on X posted a picture of Tottenham star James Maddison winking and giving a thumbs up to the camera.

But it seemed those behind the account were unaware Maddison was set for a prolonged period on the sidelines after he sustained a knee injury in the first leg of Tottenham's Europa League semi-final tie against Bodo/Glimt.

Maddison bagged the second goal in Tottenham's 3-1 victory over the Norwegian outfit before he was taken off injured in the 65th minute.

Football broadcaster and host of talkSPORT's Trans Europe Express Danny Kelly took note of the initial post and wrote: "W****** @UEFA trolling Spurs!"

Kelly was not the only one who vented their frustrations on social media as other football fans felt the post was in poor taste.

One said: "Is this legit? Surely an organising body shouldn't be flaunting the disappointment of one of the participant team's injured players? @EuropaLeague needs to apologise."

Another posted: "No dog in this fight, but what a disgusting tweet. I don't particularly like James Maddison, but seriously, the lad is out for the season and this is what come from an official @UEFA account? Disgusting."

However, someone at UEFA evidently realised the error of their ways as the post was eventually taken down.

Although Tottenham are yet to confirm the severity of Maddison's injury, talkSPORT understands the midfielder is not expected to play again this season.

Maddison and Dominic Solanke were left out of the Tottenham side that drew 1-1 with West Ham on Sunday and manager Ange Postecoglou divulged the former was 'more of a concern'.

"We're pretty hopeful with Dom that it will be OK, he's improving every day but it made no sense to bring him on today," Postecoglou said post-match.

"Maddison's a bit more of a concern until we get some more information but he's the one that's more of a concern."

The 28-year-old has been a constant presence in Postecoglou's side this season having made 45 appearances across all competitions.

He also boasts 22 attacking contributions throughout the campaign having registered 12 goals and ten assists.

Maddison's tally of 22 contributions makes him Tottenham's equal-most productive player alongside Dominic Solanke and skipper Heung-min Son.

But he won't get a chance to add to that figure due to the knee injury.

The grim news of Maddison's injury comes as Postecoglou's side stand 90 minutes away from a berth in the Europa League final.

Tottenham travel to Norway on Thursday for the second leg of their semi-final with a two-goal lead.

Progression to the Europa League final would mark the third final Tottenham have made since the 2018/19 campaign.

The north London side reached the final of the Champions League that season but fell short at the last hurdle against Liverpool.

Tottenham then made the final of the Carabao Cup in 2021, only to lose to Manchester City.

But should all go to plan on Thursday evening, Tottenham will have another chance to win their first piece of silverware since 2008.

The Europa League winners should be stripped of automatic Champions League qualification, according to Arsene Wenger.

His comments come ahead of the second legs of this season's semi-finals on Thursday.

Manchester United and Tottenham both hold healthy leads from their opening matches against Athletic Bilbao and Bodo/Glimt, respectively.

The Europa League winners currently earn a direct spot into the following season's Champions League.

UEFA have handed out the qualification place every season since 2014.

However, Wenger believes the winners should instead qualify for the next season's Europa League.

The former Arsenal boss told beIN Sports: "They should qualify automatically for the Europa League but not necessarily for the Champions League.

"Especially when you're in the Premier League where already five teams qualify.

"I think it's something [for UEFA] to think about and to review.

"On the other hand people will tell you that to keep the Europa League focused, interesting and motivated you need to give them that prize [Champions League]."

A team has yet to reach the Europa League final whilst finishing lower than 12th in their domestic league since the competition was rebranded for the 2009/10 season.

Sevilla finished 12th in La Liga in 2022/23 on their way to lifting the trophy for a record-extending seventh time.

Meanwhile, Fulham ended the 2009/10 season in the same spot before suffering a defeat to Atletico Madrid in the final.

United previously benefitted from the rule after winning the Europa League in 2017.

The Red Devils qualified for the following season's Champions League as a result, despite finishing sixth in the Premier League.

Both Spurs and United are currently in the bottom half of the Premier League.

With three matches remaining, Ruben Amorim and Ange Postecoglou's sides are 15th and 16th, respectively.

Neither side can finish any higher than 12th in the table this season.

The Europa League semi-final second legs are scheduled to take place on Thursday.

James Maddison is not expected to play for Tottenham again this season after suffering what is believed to be a significant knee injury, talkSPORT understands.

Sources fear Maddison could be sidelined for a prolonged period if he requires surgery with scan results expected within the next 24 hours.

The news is far from ideal for Spurs with their season on the line on Thursday night.

Ange Postecoglou’s side lead Bodo/Glimt 3-1 in the Europa League semi-finals and victory in the final would bring their first silverware since 2008 after a disastrous Premier League campaign.

Maddison started in that first leg at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and scored the second goal before being taken off injured in the 65th minute.

Both he and fellow regular starter Dominic Solanke were left out of the squad on Sunday as Spurs drew 1-1 with West Ham in the league.

Asked about the duo post-match, Postecoglou said: “We’re pretty hopeful with Dom that it will be OK, he’s improving every day but it made no sense to bring him on today.

“Maddison's a bit more of a concern until we get some more information but he’s the one that’s more of a concern.”

We now understand that the news isn’t good at all, with Maddison not expected back until the new campaign.

The English midfielder has been key this season, making 45 appearances in all competitions, the fifth most in the squad.

He’s also level with Solanke and Heung-min Son as the north London side’s most productive player with his 22 contributions made up of 12 goals and ten assists.

Yet domestically it’s been an unmitigated disaster, with Spurs on course to finish a record low of 16th in the league.

That has seen heavy rumours that manager Postecoglou could be replaced, but Maddison isn’t so sure.

“We’re behind the manager, 100 per cent, he’s a great man,” the 28-year-old said.

“He’s the first person to tell you and I’ve said it myself that we’ve had a poor season, especially in the league.

“We’ve been better in Europe, and it’s probably been an acceptable one and we can all take a collective responsibility for that.

“But he’s my manager, he’s my gaffer, and I respect him an awful amount.

"The narrative is something we players try to keep away from because it’s not something we like seeing, you lot talking about the manager’s position.

“I just know that I come into work every day and see the lads listening and taking on the messages about how he wants to play and trying to do what’s best for this club.

“We’re in a very good position in Europe and we can still have a very special season under his management so I will continue to do that until the day he isn’t here, I respect him an awful amount.”

Maddison was also asked if the fans deserve Europa success for such a poor season, but got his back up at the question.

“We definitely want to reward them with something special for the support they’ve given us because the league hasn’t been good enough, definitely,” he began.

“But it hurts as well, let's not create the narrative that it's just… yes it’s us players out there definitely and we take responsibility for that, but it hurts me a lot.

“We’re having a poor season, but this is why we’re so motivated for this competition because the season can still be so special.”

Harry Kane has finally won his first professional trophy, over 5,000 days after making his Tottenham debut in 2010.

Spurs' record goalscorer has now officially won the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich, and fittingly, celebrated alongside Eric Dier.

Kane was in the Spurs youth ranks when they last lifted a trophy - the 2008 League Cup - but has waited his whole career for a major honour himself.

After joining Bayern Munich, the striker missed out on a trophy in his debut season after the Bavarians endured their first trophyless season since the 2011–12 campaign.

He then lost his second successive European Championship final last summer, but Bayern have now won the Bundesliga title with two games left to play.

Tottenham only have one opportunity to join Kane this season and lift their first trophy in 16 years.

Spurs can only win the Europa League this campaign to deliver on Ange Postecoglou's bold pre-season vow that he always wins silverware during his second season at a club.

The Lilywhites have put all of their eggs in the European basket, reaching the semi-finals, following a dismal domestic campaign in the Premier League.

Tottenham crashed out of the Carabao Cup to Liverpool in the semi-finals too, before Aston Villa ended their FA Cup dreams.

Newcastle, inspired by ex-Spurs star Kieran Trippier, then delivered Eddie Howe's side their first major domestic trophy since 1955 in the EFL Cup.

Following Bayer Leverkusen's 2-2 draw away to Freiburg, Kane and Dier became the latest ex-Tottenham duo to go on to win some silverware.

Here, talkSPORT.com looks at the 67 former Spurs players and managers who have lifted a team trophy since the club's last success.

Managers (Nine trophies)

Jose Mourinho - Roma

Titles won: Europa Conference League (2021/22)

Nuno Espirito Santo - Al-Ittihad

Titles won: Saudi Pro League (22/23)

Saudi Super Cup (2022)

Mauricio Pochettino - Paris Saint-Germain

Titles won: Ligue 1 (21/22)

Coupe de France (20/21)

Trophée des Champions (2020)

Andre Villas-Boas - Zenit Saint-Petersburg

Titles won: Russian Premier League (14/15)

Russian Cup (15/16)

Russian Super Cup (2015)

Players (200+ trophies)

Harry Kane - Bayern Munich

Trophies won: Bundesliga: 2024–25

Eric Dier - Bayern Munich

Trophies won: Bundesliga: 2024–25

Gareth Bale - Real Madrid/ LAFC

Trophies won: La Liga (16/17, 19/20, 21/22)

Copa del Rey (13/14)

Supercopa de España (2017, 19/20, 21/22)

Champions League (13/14, 15/16, 16/17, 17/18, 21/22)

UEFA Super Cup (2014, 2016, 2017)

FIFA Club World Cup (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018)

MLS Cup (2022)

MLS Supporters' Shield (2022)

Luka Modric - Real Madrid

Trophies won: La Liga (16/17, 19/20, 21/22, 23/24)

Copa del Rey (13/14, 22/23)

Supercopa de España (2012, 2017, 19/20, 21/22, 23/24)

Champions League (13/14, 15/16, 16/17, 17/18, 21/22, 23/24)

UEFA Super Cup (2014, 2016, 2017, 2022, 2024)

FIFA Club World Cup (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022)

FIFA Intercontinental Cup: 2024

Kyle Walker - Manchester City

Trophies won: Premier League (17/18, 18/19, 20/21, 21/22, 22/23, 23/24)

Champions League (22/23)

UEFA Super Cup (2023)

FA Cup (18/19, 22/23)

EFL Cup (17/18, 18/19, 19/20, 20/21)

FA Community Shield (2018, 2019, 2024)

Kieran Trippier - Atletico Madrid/ Newcastle

Titles won: LaLiga (20/21)

EFL Cup (24/25)

Emerson Royal - AC Milan

Titles won: Supercoppa Italiana (2024)

Lucas Moura - Sao Paulo

Titles won: Copa do Brasil (2023)

Supercopa do Brasil: 2024

Dimitar Berbatov - Manchester United

Titles won: Premier League (08/09, 10/11)

League Cup (09/10)

Community Shield (2010, 2011)

FIFA Club World Cup (2008)

Toby Alderweireld - Al-Duhail/ Royal Antwerp

Titles won: Qatar Cup (2022)

Belgium Pro League (22/23)

Belgium Cup (22/23)

Christian Eriksen - Inter/ Manchester United

Titles won: Serie A (20/21)

EFL Cup (22/23)

FA Cup (23/24)

DeAndre Yedlin - Newcastle/ United States/ Inter Miami

Titles won: EFL Championship (16/17)

CONCACAF Nations League: (19/20)

Leagues Cup: 2023

Erik Lamela - Sevilla

Titles won: Europa League (22/23)

Bryan Gil - Sevilla (Loan)

Titles won: Europa League (22/23)

Tanguy Ndombele - Napoli/Galatasaray

Titles won: Serie A (22/23)

Süper Lig (23/24)

Turkish Super Cup: 2023

Davinson Sanchez - Galatasaray

Titles won: Süper Lig (23/24)

Turkish Super Cup: 2023

Giovani Lo Celso - Argentina

Titles won: Finalissima (2022)

Juan Foyth - Villarreal/ Argentina

Titles won: Europa League (20/21)

World Cup (2022)

Etienne Capoue - Villarreal

Titles won: Europa League (20/21)

Cameron Carter-Vickers - Celtic

Titles won: Scottish Premiership (21/22, 22/23, 23/24, 24/25)

Scottish League Cup (21/22, 22/23, 24/25)

Scottish Cup (22/23, 23/24)

Joe Hart - Celtic

Titles won: Scottish Premiership (21/22, 22/23, 23/24)

Scottish League Cup (21/22, 22/23)

Scottish Cup (22/23, 23/24)

Victor Wanyama - CF Montreal

Titles won: Canadian Championship (2021)

Jan Vertonghen - Benfica

Titles won: Primeira Liga (22/23)

Carlos Vinicius - PSV Eindhoven (Loan from Benfica)/ Galatasaray (Loan from Fulham)

Titles won: KNVB Cup (21/22)

Turkish Super Cup: 2023

Süper Lig (23/24)

Georges-Kevin Nkoudou - Besiktas

Titles won: Super Lig (20/21)

Turkish Cup (20/21)

Turkish Super Cup (2021)

Pierluigi Gollini - Napoli (Loan from Atalanta)

Titles won: Serie A (22/23)

Vincent Janssen - Monterrey/ Royal Antwerp

Titles won: Liga MX (19/20)

Copa MX (19/20)

CONCACAF Champions League (2021)

Belgium Pro League (22/23)

Belgium Cup (22/23)

Benjamin Stambouli - Paris Saint-Germain

Titles won: Ligue 1 (15/16)

Coupe de France (15/16)

Coupe de la Ligue (15/16)

Trophée des Champions (2015, 2016)

Paulinho - Guangzhou Evergrande/ Barcelona

Chinese Super League (2015, 2016, 2019)

Chinese FA Cup (2016)

Chinese FA Super Cup (2016, 2017)

AFC Champions League (2015)

LaLiga (17/18)

Copa del Rey (17/18)

Fernando Llorente - Napoli

Titles won: Coppa Italia (19/20)

Rafael van der Vaart - FC Midtjylland

Titles won: Danish Superliga (17/18)

Jermain Defoe - Rangers

Titles won: Scottish Premiership (20/21)

Adel Taarabt - QPR/Benfica

Titles won: EFL Championship (10/11)

Primeira Liga (18/19)

Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira (2019)

Kevin-Prince Boateng - AC Milan/ Eintracht Frankfurt/Barcelona

Titles won: Serie A (10/11)

Supercoppa Italiana (2011)

DFB-Pokal (17/18)

La Liga (18/19)

Robbie Keane - LA Galaxy

MLS Cup (2011, 2012, 2014)

Supporters' Shield (2011)

Clint Dempsey - Seattle Sounders

Titles won: Supporters' Shield (2014)

US Open Cup (2014)

Giovani dos Santos - America/ Mexico

Titles won: Campeón de Campeones (2019)

CONCACAF Gold Cup (2011, 2015)

Lee Young-pyo - Al-Hilal

Titles won: Saudi Professional League (09/10, 10/11)

Saudi Crown Prince Cup (09/10, 10/11)

Teemu Tainio - Ajax/ HJK

Titles won: Eredivisie (10/11)

Veikkausliiga (2013, 2014)

Finnish Cup (2014)

Didier Zokora - Sevilla

Titles won: Copa del Rey (09/10)

Vedran Corluka - Lokomotiv Moscow

Titles won: Russian Premier League (17/18)

Russian Cup (14/15, 16/17, 18/19, 20/21)

Russian Super Cup (2019)

Roman Pavlyuchenko - Lokomotiv Moscow

Titles won: Russian Cup (14/15)

Harry Winks - Leicester City

Titles won: EFL Championship (23/24)

Paulo Gazzaniga - Fulham

Titles won: EFL Championship (21/22)

Jack Clarke - Sunderland

Titles won: League One Play-offs (21/22)

Josh Onomah - Fulham

Titles won: Championship Play-offs (19/20)

EFL Championship (21/22)

Jamie O'Hara - Billericay Town

Titles won: Isthmian League Premier Division (17/18)

Isthmian League Cup (16/17, 17/18)

Essex Senior Cup (17/18)

Hossam Ghaly - Al Ahly

Titles won: Egyptian Premier League (10/11, 15/16, 16/17, 17/18)

Egypt Cup (16/17)

Egyptian Super Cup (10/11, 14/15, 15/16)

Jake Livermore - Hull City

Titles won: Championship Play-offs (15/16)

Michael Dawson - Hull City

Titles won: Championship Play-offs (15/16)

Tom Huddlestone - Hull City

Titles won: Championship Play-offs (15/16)

Niko Kranjcar - QPR

Titles won: Championship Play-offs (13/14)

Radek Cerny - QPR

Titles won: EFL Championship (10/11)

Sebastien Bassong - Norwich City

Titles won: Championship Play-offs (14/15)

Adam Smith - Bournemouth

Titles won: EFL Championship (14/15)

Fraizer Campbell - Cardiff City (Loan from Manchester United)

Titles won: EFL Championship (12/13)

Zeki Fryers - Swindon Town

Titles won: League Two (19/20)

John Bostock - Notts County

Titles won: National League Play-offs (22/23)

Tomislav Gomelt - CFR Cluj/ FK Suduva/ NK Rudes

Titles won: Romanian Cup (15/16)

Lithuanian Supercup: 2022

First NL: 2022–23

Simon Dawkins - San Jose Earthquakes

Titles won: Major League Soccer Supporters' Shield (2012)

Major League Soccer Western Conference Regular Season Championship (2012)

Paul-Jose Mpoku - Standard Liege

Titles won: Belgian Cup (2017/18)

Tomas Pekhart - AEK Athens/ Hapoel Be'er-Sheva/ Legia Warsaw

Titles won: Greek Cup (2015/16)

Israeli Premier League (17/18)

Ekstraklasa (19/20, 20/21)

Polish Cup: (22/23)

Polish Super Cup: 2023

Bongani Khumalo - SuperSport United

Titles won: South African League (x4)

South African Cup

Ryan Mason will wait until after Tottenham's European campaign has come to an end before making a decision over his future.

Mason is a leading contender for the vacant West Brom job.

The Spurs assistant coach has shot to the top of the bookies' favourites, alongside Marti Cifuentes.

However, talkSPORT understands the 33-year-old's focus is on Tottenham's Europa League run.

Spurs have one foot in the final after beating Bodo/Glimt 3-1 in the first leg at home last Thursday.

The second leg is on May 8 as Ange Postecoglou looks to deliver silverware for the trophy-starved club.

Postecoglou will not want any distractions should they reach the Europa League final on May 21, which takes place in Bilbao.

If West Brom want to appoint Mason as their next permanent manager, then they will need to wait until later this month.

It would be the former midfielder's first full-time management job.

Mason retired as a player in 2018 following a serious head injury and shortly after joined Spurs' coaching staff.

He has twice taken interim charge of the club, when Jose Mourinho was sacked and then again when acting head coach Cristian Stellini was fired.

In 2024, he came close to being named Anderlecht manager but both parties mutually agreed not to progress with talks.

talkSPORT reported that he was also a contender for Championship club Swansea.

The Baggies sacked Tony Mowbray in April following a poor run of results.

talkSPORT reported that QPR boss Cifuentes' representatives have held talks with West Brom.

He was then placed on gardening leave with CEO Christian Nourry saying 'this is naturally a disappointing situation for everyone concerned'.

West Brom finished ninth in the Championship, missing out on the play-offs by four points.

They are now set for a fifth straight campaign in the second tier of English football, having reached the play-offs just once in the last four years.

So you're telling me there's a chance?

Marcus Rashford appeared to have already played potentially his last game for Aston Villa this season.

The Man United loanee picked up a hamstring injury that looked to have put him out of the entire run-in.

However, despite ruling Rashford out of Villa's game against Fulham, Unai Emery is hopeful he can return in the coming weeks and feature again for the club.

"For tomorrow, he is not available," Emery said.

"He is working his comeback as soon as possible, but it is still weeks to be available or not with us for the rest of the season.

"Of course, there are four weeks and hopefully he will play with us in one or two matches."

On Rashford's potential permanent future at the club, he said: "Tomorrow, Fulham. We don't want to finish the season. We don't want a holiday. We want to play.

"Hopefully, he can help us. Of course, he's recovering with us here.

"I want to see him happy. Play, get our objective and then, of course, we will speak about everything."

'I can still play here'

Kevin De Bruyne is set to depart Man City at the end of the season, but he still feels he can play at the top level.

Speaking to Sky Sports this evening, he said: "I try to play as much good football as I can.

"I know that I only have one home game left but I just try to do my job and that's what I did today.

"A lot of teammates have said that it's sad I have to go too, but that's just how it goes sometimes in life.

"I don't know what the future will be, but I know that I can still play here."

De Bruyne added: "I am still enjoying it, and we still have a job to do. It was a hard game today but we found the way to win.

"Now we can just relax a bit and see what the other teams do."

A City legend

This will be a memorable night for Kevin De Bruyne.

The Belgian has one more game left at the Etihad before he leaves the club, and he did a lap of the pitch at full-time.

After his winning goal against Wolves, he has now scored 30 Premier League goals since turning 30.

The only players to score more times for Manchester City aged 30+ are Yaya Touré and Sergio Agüero (41 each).

De Bruyne has also now had a hand in 11 goals in 10 Premier League appearances against Wolves (6 goals, 5 assists).

That's the joint-most by any player in top-flight history alongside Mo Salah, who also has 6 goals and 5 assists.

'As good as I've seen them'

We've only seen three shots in this second half so far.

And we're just entering the final 20 minutes of the game.

The most recent effort came from Mateo Kovacic, who scuffed wide after Omar Marmosh struck over from inside the box.

Wolves have looked threatening just as they did in the first, and that has left Man City holding on at times.

However, the hosts remain comfortable in possession and look as if they may be able to get this win over the line.

Erling Haaland has been warming up, will we see him tonight?

Stuart Pearce live on talkSPORT: "You can't underestimate how well City have played.

"This is as good as I've seen them play for a long time."

Half time

The half-time whistle blows in Manchester.

Kevin De Bruyne's strike has Man City in front after a half that saw Wolves have the better chances.

Rayan Ait Nouri had one shot hit the post and another cleared off the line just before his side conceded.

And that came after Marshall Munetsi came inches away from tapping in a square pass from Jean-Ricner Bellergarde.

The visitors have been impressive, but they have nothing to show for it and they seemed to struggle when 1-0 down.

De Bruyne's goal added a lot of confidence to City, so they'll hope to restart the second half as they ended the first.

GOAL! Man City 1-0 Wolves: Kevin De Bruyne

AND NOW MAN CITY TAKE THE LEAD!

Kevin De Bruyne smashes in the opener!

After all of Wolves' pressure, it's the hosts who go in front and what a roar it is from the home crowd.

De Bruyne may have just scored his last goal in a City shirt.

His name is sung around the Etihad as the game restarts.

The goal comes from Jeremy Doku's break down the left, as he gets into the box and pokes a ball across goal.

Doku's pass ends up finding De Bruyne who finishes brilliantly after arriving into the penalty area.

Empty seats

Wolves have come out fighting tonight.

Vitor Pereira has his side playing with so much confidence and that's clear to see, as they press high.

They've had a shot balloon over from Matheus Cunha while also having a couple of other half-chances.

But Man City are starting to gain some control of the game at the Etihad, which has plenty of empty seats inside.

The lack of fans in their seats is due to a protest, with many not entering the stadium until after the sixth minute.

The demonstration was against Man City's ticket prices and new season ticket plans at the club.

Kick-off!

Here we go then, Wolves vs Man City is underway.

Can Pep Guardiola's side move back up into third?

Or will Wolves continue their incredible winning streak to shock City and damage their Champions League hopes?

We'll find out over the next 90 minutes.

If you want to tune in to the action, we have live and exclusive coverage of the game on talkSPORT.

Commentary is coming from Mark Wilson and Stuart Pearce.

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

You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

'I will take a break'

Pep Guardiola has revealed that he will 'take a break' when his time at Manchester City ends.

The Spaniard signed an extension in November that meant he has a contract as City boss up until 2027.

But after that, he isn't expecting to instantly join another club and could even end his management career.

"After my contract with City, I'm going to stop. I am sure. I don't know if I'm going to retire, but I'm going to take a break," he told ESPN.

"There are new challenges as a coach. I don't know what will happen in the future and in the end that doesn't matter."

Guardiola then clarified his comments speaking to Sky Sports, saying: "I didn’t say I'm leaving now, or the end of season or the end of contract.

"I said when I finish my time here, be it one, two, three, four, five years I will take a break.

"I won't retire but I will take a break. What I am saying is when I am finished here I will take a break."

No distractions

Pep Guardiola doesn't want his Man City side to lose their focus on the Premier League run-in.

City are in the FA Cup final and that is their only hope of silverware this season, so it will be a huge clash.

However, Guardiola is only looking at each game coming for his team, not thinking about what's to come in two weeks time.

“Now we can’t be distracted for anything else,” he said ahead of City's meeting with Wolves this evening.

“It’s Wolves, Wolves and Wolves. The rest we have time to think about it and day by day, see in the training sessions, [speak with] the physios, doctors.

“Now, it’s a final every single game. We make an incredible effort. The last eight games unbeaten since Nottingham Forest away, we make just two draws against United and Brighton.

“I’m pretty sure all of them want to play [in the final]. When you reach a final of the FA Cup, everyone wants to be involved.

“It depends how they feel and how they recover. Now it’s a period we have to have certainty. It’s not already qualified here.

“What we are going to say is we are going to make the right decisions.”

Injury boost

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hopes that the Gunners could receive a triple boost for their second leg against PSG.

A defeat at home in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final leaves them on the brink of a heartbreaking elimination.

However, having some key players back could help their chances of pulling off a comeback in Paris next week.

Arteta revealed that he could see a trio return for the game.

On Jorginho, Kai Havertz and Riccardo Calafiori, he said: "I wouldn't rule all of them out.

"Let's see in the next few days how a few of them react."

Jorginho hasn't played since the start of April with a reported 'punctured lung' while Havertz may be set for a return after undergoing surgery on his hamstring.

Welsh Xavi set to retire

Swansea City and Wales midfielder Joe Allen has confirmed he will retire after tomorrow's final game of the Championship season.

The 35-year-old is out of contract at the Swans this summer and has opted to call time on his career after the match against Oxford.

Allen was infamously dubbed 'the Welsh Xavi' by former manager Brendan Rodgers during their time at Liverpool together.

He hangs up his boots having made almost 600 club appearances and won 77 international caps.

"This is incredibly difficult. This is not something I've taken lightly, I've spent a lot of time pondering it," said Allen.

"The timing's right. I made the decision, got to 100 percent about a month ago. I wasn't sure how the last few weeks would go, how I'd find things, but it's actually been a good spell really. I've enjoyed it."

"I've had a chance to reflect and take it all in. I'm really looking forward to what's going to be my last game on Saturday," he added.

"I'm very proud. I didn't think I'd be sat here playing as many games as I have for clubs I have done at that level and for Wales as well.

"I've been incredibly fortunate and as I've reflected over the last few weeks very grateful and thankful to everyone who has helped me on my way to have these amazing experiences."

Gone to Pot

West Ham manager Graham Potter has lifted the lid on last week's viral post-match press conference.

The former Brighton boss said he was 'upset' after conceding two late goals to lose against his old club.

Speaking today, Potter said: "As you can see, I'm better now.

"It would be surprising if I wasn't upset after how the game had unfolded. It's about accepting the human being that we all are and moving forward.

"As you get older, I care less about what you guys (the media) think.

"I'm happy to be myself - if myself is being annoyed after we've conceded two goals in three minutes, I'm damned if I do and I'm damned if I don't.

"My reaction was a human reaction. I would be surprised if there's many football managers that gave a different reaction to what I had."

Top Marcs

Aston Villa boss Unai Emery has given a fresh update on Marcus Rashford's situation following the England star's recent injury.

It was reported last week that the Manchester United loanee was expected to miss the rest of the season with a hamstring issue.

Rashford was forced out of Villa's FA Cup semi-final defeat to Crystal Palace on Saturday, and won't play against Fulham tomorrow either.

Ahead of that match, live on talkSPORT, Emery said: "For tomorrow he is not available but he is working to comeback as soon as possible.

"But [it will still be] weeks until he is available. Hopefully he will play with us [for] one or two matches [before the end of the season]."

Arteta updates on Calafiori, Jorginho and Havertz

Mikel Arteta says he is hopeful that Jorginho 'will integrate into the team for the last few games'.

The Arsenal boss also surprisingly revealed that Kai Havertz could also be back before the end of the season.

Speaking ahead of the Gunners' clash with Bournemouth, Arteta said: "I will assess how the squad is tomorrow and see who I have available to start and as subs."

On Havertz: "I think so [could return before end of season].

"If everything goes the way it is at the moment, then he will have a chance."

Arteta also confirmed Riccardo Calafiori remains unavailable for Saturday's game, as do Jorginho and Havertz.

Bergvall injury KO

Lucas Bergvall's season is likely over after picking up an ankle injury, as talkSPORT first revealed last night.

The teenager was spotted on crutches and in a protective boot pitchside at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Thursday evening

He was a shock omission from Ange Postecoglou's squad for the Europa League semi-final first-leg win over Bodø/Glimt.

Speaking to the media on Friday afternoon ahead of Sunday's trip to West Ham, Postecoglou said, "With Lucas, it looks like the injury is significant enough to probably keep him out now for the rest of the season. He tweaked his ligaments in his ankle so he is out."

Asked later how the injury came about, Ange said: "It's something you see all the time.

"It wasn't a tackle, he was on his own, he just went to turn, and his ankle gave way.

"It's one of those things, similar to Dom (Solanke, earlier in the season) and others we've had in training. These things happen."

Former Tottenham Hotspur 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 discussions are at an advanced stage for the Italian chief to return to Spurs - although nothing is signed yet.

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.

The north London outfit have one foot in the final following their 3-1 semi-final first leg victory over Norwegian opponents Bodo/Glimt on Thursday night.

Tottenham declined to comment when approached regarding Paratici's possible return.

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.

The 52-year-old had been heavily linked with becoming AC Milan's next sporting director.

It's understood that he met several times with the Rossoneri leadership.

Though the Serie A giants have seemingly gone a differeunt route as they close in on the appointment of Igli Tare to fill their vacant position.

A return to Tottenham is now in motion for Parataci, who was a popular figure amongs the clubs fanbase.

Paratici was responsible for signing many of their current stars as he flexed his knowledge in the transfer market.

In his first season as Spurs, Paratici was influential in the club bringing in Cristiano Romero and Dejan Kulusevski, with their temporary stays turning into permanent deals.

That campaign also saw the arrival of midfielders Rodrigo Bentancur and Pape Matar Sarr.

Winger Bryan Gil and Emerson Royal were also brought in, with the former now no longer on Spurs' books.

The following season saw Pedro Porro arrive on loan, which was turned into a permanent transfer.

Though the club ultimately decided against signing Clement Lenglet and Arnaut Danjuma on a permanent basis.

However, Paratici did oversee heavy spending in the summer of 2022, with Richarlison [£60million], Yves Bissouma [£25m], Destiny Udogie [£15m] and Djed Spence [£12.5m] all signed.

They were in the addition to the free transfer arrivals in the form of experienced goalkeeper Fraser Forster and veteran full-back Ivan Perisic.

And fans will be hoping for another busy summer following what has been a disastrous Premier League season.

Sitting 16th in the table, Tottenham have equalled their Premier League record with 19 defeats, which could be broken with clashes against West Ham, Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Brighton on the horizon.

They're also on course for their worst Premier League finish, which was set in the 1993/94 term where they ended in 15th spot.

Meanwhile, Spurs are also in danger of boasting their lowest points tally in the division.

With just 37 points to their name from 34 matches, they could muster less that the 44 they picked up in the 1997/98 season.

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.”

Brennan Johnson entered the Europa League history books after firing Tottenham Hotspur into a dream lead against Bodo/Glimt.

The Welshman headed in the opener for Spurs with just 38 seconds on the clock in their 3-1 semi-final first leg win on Thursday night.

Bodo/Glimt left Johnson unmarked towards the back post as they quickly fell a goal down with less than a minute played.

It made history as Spurs scored in the opening minute of a match in a major European competition for only the second time.

The first occasion came in December 1971 when Martin Peters netted in their 3-0 UEFA Cup win against Rapid Bucharest.

Meanwhile, Johnson scored the quickest Europa League semi-final goal in history.

The previous record stood at 50 seconds, when Ansgar Knauff scored for Eintracht Frankfurt against West Ham in April 2022.

Johnson's goal was his 17th of the season in all competitions and fourth in the Europa League.

Spurs then doubled their lead on 34 minutes when James Maddison saw his effort bundle into the bottom corner.

Dominic Solanke added the third from the penalty spot during the second half before a Ulrik Saltnes consolation goal for Bodo/Glimt.

"We're pleased," Johnson told TNT Sports afterwards. "If before the game you would have said that we'd have a two goal cushion then we'd be happy with it. They are a tough team.

"There is a reason why they have beaten other teams in the past. Disappointed to concede at the end but we are happy with the performance."

On his goal, he added: "I didn't realise it was that early. They are a team that build in confidence with time to play so we knew that we had to be onto them straight away.

"Getting the early goal really set the tempo and I thought we started really well. Maddison has scored a few goals like that this season and makes the run really well.

"Porro has the quality to find that pass and when it comes off it works really well. So when they get the timing right and Madders can finish it off it is a really well worked goal."

Ange Postecoglou's side are now on course to reach their first final in a European competition since 2019.

Whilst there's still a second leg to play, Spurs will remain favourites to reach the Europa League's showcase match.

They could very well face Manchester United in this season's final.

It would be the first all-English final in the Europa League since Chelsea beat Arsenal 4-1 in 2019.

United were 3-0 winners against ten-man Athletic Bilbao as Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes scored one and two goals respectively.

Bilbao hosts the final on May 21, which comes four days before the final day of the Premier League season.