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Chris cross

Christopher Nkunku will leave Chelsea this summer, talkSPORT understands.

Nkunku would welcome a move back to Germany to Bayern Munich and is also open to staying in the Premier League.

Tottenham Hotspur have also enquired ahead of a potential shock move to keep him in London.

Bayern made an initial approach for Nkunku in January and the Frenchman was understood to be keen on a move.

However, the German side was put off by Chelsea demanding north of £50million for the winger.

Nkunku is believed to be open to joining the Bundesliga champions but is equally receptive to remaining in the Premier League.

The 27-year-old finished the 24/25 campaign with 14 goals and five assists from 42 appearances across all competitions.

Fer real?

Bruno Fernandes' agent Miguel Pinho has flown to Saudi Arabia to hold a meeting with Al Hilal, talkSPORT understands.

Pinho is expected to provide the Saudi Pro League club with a final answer as to whether Fernandes will accept their proposal.

The Portuguese superstar has been offered an eye-watering deal worth £65million-a-year.

Should Fernandes agree to the deal, it would instantly see him earn the third-highest salary in world football behind only Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.

And if Al-Hilal get the green light from Fernandes, the club will be ready to table a £100m offer.

Power Serge

Sergej Jakirovic is the number one candidate to take charge of Hull City, talkSPORT understands.

The Tigers are on the lookout for a new boss following the sacking of Ruben Selles at the end of the 2024/25 season.

And it is believed that Jakirovic is now the Yorkshire outfit's top target to fill the gap.

Jakirovic is currently in charge of Turkish side Kayserispor having been appointed in January.

His team sit 14th in the Super Lig table with one match left having managed to win seven of his 14 matches in all competitions.

Gunner get ya?

Arsenal have reportedly stepped up their interest in RB Leipzig striker Bejamin Sesko.

Sesko is high on Mikel Arteta's radar following an impressive season which saw him score 21 goals in all competitions.

The Gunners were keen on the 21-year-old last summer, but the Slovenia international decided to remain in Germany for another year to continue his development.

And according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have now started concrete talks in their quest to sign him.

It is believed that Sesko will depart Leipzig this summer after the club failed to secure European football.

talkSPORT understands that Arsenal remain keen on landing Sporting Lisbon centre-forward Viktor Gyokeres.

Winging it

Chelsea aren't the only ones worried about finances surrounding Jadon Sancho.

The Blues loaned the England winger from Manchester United with an obligation to buy him for £25million at the end of the season.

Earlier reports claimed that Chelsea were becoming increasingly averse to keeping him around, but would have to pay £5m to send Sancho back to Manchester.

Now it seems more likely he will stay, but talkSPORT understands Sancho would have to take a pay cut to remain at Stamford Bridge.

Sancho joined the Red Devils in 2021 from Borussia Dortmund for £73million.

He reportedly signed a contract worth £300,000 per-week, which he'd have to now agree new terms on.

Ger off

Steven Gerrard won't be returning to Rangers for a second stint.

talkSPORT understands that the Liverpool legend is out of the running as the Scottish side have prioritised other candidates.

Those are former Southampton manager Russell Martin and Carlo Ancelotti's son and long time assistant Davide.

Gerrard coached Rangers from 2018 to 2021, winning the Scottish Premiership in '21, the clubs only league title in 14 years.

Yet his management career since has undermined that achievement as he struggled at both Aston Villa and Al Ettifaq.

Gerrard left the Saudi Pro League side by mutual consent in January with 19 wins, 16 draws and 20 defeats in 55 games.

It's Son

talkSPORT understands that Heung-min Son remains a target for Saudi Pro League clubs this summer.

The Tottenham star got his hands on the Europa League trophy as Spurs captain last week, and it could prove to be the end of his time in north London.

Saudi clubs have been keen on Son since 2023, with the league keen on signing players from all over the world.

This is because there is a new TV deal that is likely to involve selling the rights abroad.

However, Son has a year left on his deal and currently wants to remain at Tottenham.

Gone

Manchester City fans have been left baffled by the news Kevin De Bruyne's mural has gone.

A special painting dedicated to the Belgian was unveiled a few weeks ago ahead of his exit.

De Bruyne said goodbye to the Etihad faithful last week against Bournemouth before playing his final game in the 2-0 win over Fulham.

It brought to an end ten glorious years for one of the greatest Premier League players.

But the mural dedicated to the playmaker is gone because it was only ever planned to be a temporary one.

Going the other way

As Chelsea close in on a deal for Liam Delap to join them from Ipswich for £30 million, the Tractor Boys are eyeing a Blues players.

Kieran McKenna is looking to prepare his side for life back in the Championship, and Ipswich are keen on Marc Guiu.

The club have been watching the young striker for a while and are seeking a loan deal.

It's unclear whether the player himself would be open to the move, but any potential deal would be separate to Delap.

'Still in negotiations'

Cristiano Ronaldo's future has been the focus of much speculation in recent days and weeks.

This is because his contract at Al Nassr expires at the end of June.

The level of speculation stepped up when Ronaldo posted a tweet after the last game of the season that suggested he was leaving Al Nassr.

However, the club's sporting director, Fernando Hierro, has quashed any suggestion Ronaldo is definitely leaving.

He said: "We are still in negotiations with Cristiano. Hopefully we can find a solution on a renewal."

Clarified

Manchester United have confirmed that the picture of Amad Diallo flipping off the fans in Malaysia was an isolated incident.

The winger was seen raising his middle finger in the direction of fans in the airport after the 1-0 defeat to the Asian All Stars team.

However, the club have confirmed it was in response to some serious abuse directed at the winger.

But it should be stressed this isn't a reflection on the overall experience, with the vast majority of fans being positive towards the players.

'It's tough'

New quotes from Cristian Romero have emerged about life in England.

The Argentine was speaking to Gaston Edul in April before Tottenham's Europa League win, and was he was asked about his family.

The centre-back is an Atletico Madrid transfer target this summer, and these quotes could worry Spurs fans.

Romero indicated that life in the UK was hard on his family.

He said: “It’s tough, not so much for me because I love coming and training, but my family.

“It’s tough for them being locked up all the time because it’s raining, it’s freezing. They suffer a lot.”

Idol

After helping Napoli win Serie A, a shrine to Scott McTominay has appeared in Naples city centre.

The location for the picture of the Scotsman is a former religious site that has been converted to a permanent memorial to the midfielder.

McTominay's time in Italy has been a total success, with the Scottish international playing a huge role in Antonio Conte's side claiming league glory ahead of Inter Milan.

McTominay scored on the last day in a 2-0 home win over Cagliari, which sealed the title.

He has since been spotted on the open-top bus smoking and dancing with old Napoli fans.

He might have only been there a year, but he is already a hero.

Brutal

Chelsea's Twitter admin wasted no time in ripping into Real Betis after the Conference League final.

Ahead of the match, the Spanish club changed their badge to include a bird on it.

This is because, this season has been described as the 'Year of the Bird, given the Magpies, Eagles, Liverbirds and Cockerels all won something.

It wasn't to be for Betis, as they were crushed 4-1 by Chelsea in Poland.

And the admin has tweeted a picture of the Chelsea lion letting the Betis' bird leave, with the caption, 'the lion's always king'.

It's gone down very well with many Chelsea fans, with one supporter asking the club to give the admin a payrise.

History makers

Chelsea last night made a bit of European history that no team is ever likely to achieve.

Enzo Maresca's men added the trophy to the Champions League and Europa League titles they already have.

But they had to do it the hard way.

At half time, Chelsea trailed 1-0 to Real Betis, but in the second half, it was a Cole Palmer masterclass.

The England international turned the game on its head with two sublime assists for Enzo Fernandez and Nicolas Jackson before Jadon Sancho and Moises Caicedo added some gloss to the scoreline.

It tops off a great week for the Blues, who qualified for the Champions League on Sunday and now have a trophy.

Howe emulates Shearer

Eddie Howe has been given Freedom of Newcastle status, the city's councillors have confirmed.

The Newcastle boss was nominated after guiding the club to Carabao Cup glory in March.

Their 2-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield secured a first major domestic trophy for 70 years.

Councillors have now voted in favour of handing Howe the highest civic honour the city can bestow.

He also follows in the footsteps of several Toon Army icons by receiving the honour.

Sir Bobby Charlton, Alan Shearer and Jackie Milburn were all also handed the freedom of the city.

Howe has been in charge at St. James' Park since November 2021 and signed a new three-year deal with the club in March.

During his time with Newcastle, he has twice qualified for the Champions League, including this season.

Ambitious United plans

Omar Berrada has revealed Manchester United will show 'ambition' in the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils are already set to complete the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves.

Speaking ahead of United's first post-season friendly, CEO Berrada told MUTV: "I can’t talk about specifics, but I can say that we’ve been planning for many months now,

"We were ready for all the different scenarios, so now we know what we need to do.

"We have a very clear idea of where we need to invest in the squad to improve, so (technical director) Jason (Wilcox), his team, Ruben have been in talks for many months.

"Now it’s a question of executing that plan and doing it in a way that is prudent but at the same time with ambition."

Ruben Amorim's side were beaten by an ASEAN All-Stars XI in Malaysia on Wednesday.

It followed their 15th place finish in the Premier League as they missed out on European qualification for the first time in 11 years.

United beaten

Manchester United have been beaten in their first post-season friendly.

The Red Devils fell to a 1-0 defeat to an ASEAN All-Stars XI in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Myanmar international Maung Maung Lwin scored the winning goal in the 71st minute.

The 29-year-old winger plays his club football in Thailand for Lamphun Warrior.

Despite dominating the match, United were unable to find a breakthrough.

Ruben Amorim's side had 65 per cent possession as well as 19 attempts on goal.

However, just four of those shots were on target as they failed to grab an equaliser.

Meanwhile, their opponents capitalised on a rare opportunity to counter attack to grab the only goal of the match.

United will be back in action on Friday against Hong Kong in their final fixture of the tour.

Chelsea fans sprayed with water

Chelsea fans have been floored with water cannons by Polish police in Wroclaw.

Shocking footage shows the moment supporters are sprayed ahead of tonight's Conference League final.

The Blues face Real Betis at the Wroclaw Stadium in their final match of the season.

Fans have gathered in the city prior to kick-off, with many supporters gathering in the centre despite rainy weather.

However, several fans could be seen being knocked to the floor by a water cannon on top of a police van.

It follows footage of a brawl breaking out between Chelsea and Betis supporters on Tuesday.

Police were forced to intervene with tear gas used after glasses and chairs were thrown.

Kick-off in Wroclaw is scheduled for 9pm local time (8pm BST).

Liverpool crash update

Police have been given more time to question the suspect in the Liverpool victory parade crash, which injured at least 79 people, police said.

In a statement on Wednesday, Merseyside Police said: "We can confirm that seven people remain in hospital in a stable condition following the incident on Water Street on Monday May 26.

"As part of the ongoing investigation, we have also been able to identify more people who were injured, with 79 in total who we are now speaking with.

"A 53-year-old man from West Derby, who was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving offences and driving while unfit through drugs, remains in police custody.

"The investigation team have today been granted further time to continue questioning him in police custody, which will remain in place until tomorrow."

Kelleher approach

Brentford have launched a move to sign Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, talkSPORT understands.

The Bees have made an approach over the possibility of signing the Republic of Ireland international.

Their interest comes as Mark Flekken edges closer to a move away from the club.

Flekken is set to complete a move to Bayer Leverkusen this summer.

The Dutch goalkeeper is understood to have turned down offers from elsewhere in England to work with compatriot Erik ten Hag.

Thomas Frank is now in the market for a new goalkeeper, with Kelleher identified as an option.

The 26-year-old is entering the final year of his deal at Anfield after winning a second Premier League title last term.

Kelleher kept four clean sheets across his four league appearances under Arne Slot.

City backroom overhaul

Manchester City have announced the departures of three members of Pep Guardiola's backroom team.

Assistant managers Juanma Lillo and Inigo Dominguez will both leave the club when their contracts expire this summer.

Lillo has enjoyed two spells at City, most recently returning to the club in 2023, but is now set to return to Spain.

Dominguez also arrived at the Etihad Stadium alongside Lillo two years ago after working together at Al-Sadd in Qatar.

Meanwhile, Carlos Vicens has departed to become the new manager of Portuguese side Braga.

Prior to becoming one of Guardiola's assistants, Vicens worked with City's under-18 side, winning the FA Youth Cup in 2020.

The club have confirmed new assistant managers to succeed the trio will be announced in due course.

Brentford boss Thomas Frank has declared his intentions for next season amid rampant speculation he could replace Ange Postecoglou.

Despite ending Tottenham's 17-year trophy drought with victory in the Europa League last Wednesday, Postecoglou is no certainty to remain in his post for next season.

However, talkSPORT understands the north London outfit are unlikely to make an announcement on the Australian's future before he goes on holiday.

Frank has emerged as a leading contender to take over at Tottenham should the axe fall on Postecoglou thanks to his exploits at Brentford, who finished an impressive 10th in the Premier League this term.

However, the Dane has given signals he intends to remain with the Bees going forward.

talkSPORT host Natalie Sawyer, who is also a passionate Brentford supporter, revealed just as much on talkSPORT Breakfast as she read out her brief text exchange with Frank after the Bees secured a ninth-place finish on Sunday.

"All I'm going to say is, I exchanged a little message with Thomas yesterday and this is what he said," Sawyer said.

"I said, 'Well done on the season', because it has been a good season.

"He said, 'Enjoy the summer and soon we go again.'"

Frank also put a bee emoji at the end of his message.

Talk of Postecoglou's future has fired up once again after his side slumped to a 4-1 loss against Brighton on Sunday.

The defeat ensured Tottenham finished 17th on 38 points, their lowest tally since the 1976/77 campaign.

Additionally, the loss was Tottenham's 22nd in the league this term, the most by any team who avoided relegation in the Premier League era.

Yet Postecoglou remains adamant he will lead Tottenham for a third season and insisted talk about his future following the Brighton defeat was 'unnecessary'.

However, Aston Villa legend Gabby Agbonlahor believes the Australian's race has been run at Tottenham and can still leave with his head held high.

"The project that's available at Spurs, they've got money to spend, bring in players, get rid of players," Agbonlahor said.

"It's a big risk if you're Daniel Levy, 'Ok, we're going to back Postecoglou, give him the money'.

"But when you look at the league form, 22 league games lost.

"I know they won a big European trophy, but for me, I would say, 'Thank you, move on'.

"A manager comes in straight away and builds a proper squad of players."

The 4-1 loss to Brighton was Postecoglou's 101st match in charge of Tottenham.

His record stands at 47 wins, 14 draws and 40 defeats in all competitions, with an average of 1.53 points per game and a win percentage of 47 per cent.

Tottenham are unlikely to make an announcement on Ange Postecoglou's future before the Europa League winner goes on holiday, talkSPORT understands.

Brentford boss Thomas Frank is emerging as a strong contender to replace Postecoglou after Marco Silva publicly stated he will remain as Fulham manager next season.

However, chairman Daniel Levy is mulling over whether to proceed with plans to sack Postecoglou after Spurs' Europa League triumph over Manchester United last week.

Before that 1-0 win in Bilbao, sources close to Postecoglou were convinced the Australian would definitely be axed.

Frank has a hefty release clause in his Brentford contract, believed to be in the region of £9million.

The Dane also has a long-standing relationship with Spurs' technical director Johan Lange.

Tottenham's 4-1 defeat at home to Brighton on Sunday saw them finish just one place above the relegation zone, losing 22 of their 38 Premier League games, the most by any team avoiding the drop in the competition's history.

Despite this new low, Postecoglou was very upbeat at the way the season had panned out for Spurs after the game.

When asked how he'd assess Spurs' season, he responded: "Outstanding."

"We won a trophy, which we have not done for 17 years, and we're in the Champions League.

"Ask any supporter at the start of the season if they'd take that and there wouldn't be a person in the house that wouldn't."

Postecoglou was also in no mood to discuss his future after the match and labelled such talk as 'unnecessary'.

"You know my gut feeling? My gut feeling is I feel right now that I’ve done something that no one believed I could," Postecoglou said.

"And I shouldn’t be sitting here talking about it (my future).

"That’s my feeling, but it is what it is.

"As I said I am and probably I am talking now because I’m tired, mate. I have to [talk] about another game and I just want to go on a break and enjoy my family and reflect on being part of something unbelievably special, unbelievably special.

"I’ve been fortunate to be in this position a number of times, but seeing those scenes Friday and people have reached out and talked to me about how it has affected them what has happened over the last couple of days. It’s a beautiful thing and I just want to enjoy that.

"To be honest, the rest of it? You know I don’t even want to be talking about it. I just think it is unnecessary."

He was in defiant mood during Spurs' Europa League trophy parade on Friday, as he suggested next season would produce more glory than this term has.

Speaking to the club's fans during their open-top bus parade on Friday about his trophy promise, Postecoglou roared: "I told them and they laughed.

"I told them and they didn't believe. And here we are.

"I'll leave you with this, all the best television series, season three is better than season two."

Although he appeared to admit regretting these comments as he said in the pre-match press conference on Saturday: "I should have thought about it a bit more because as somebody rightly pointed out, sometimes they kill off the main character.

"I could be in strife there!

"I said even before the game, I really believe we’re just building something and a significant win accelerates that.

"I really believe that is the case and I am not going to put a limit on what we can achieve.

"I certainly believe it’s exciting the possibilities of next year knowing I’ve got a group of players now and staff and a club that knows how to win and wants more of it."

Postecoglou was hired as Spurs boss in the summer of 2023, replacing Antonio Conte as permanent manager.

A positive first campaign in north London saw Spurs come fifth in the Premier League, but this term has been dismal on a domestic front with Spurs finishing just one place above the relegation zone.

However, their Europa League triumph has given them an historic trophy and also Champions League football for next season.

Brighton and Hove Albion closed out the 2024/25 Premier League season in style with a demolition of Tottenham Hotspur, but there is a sour note.

The Seagulls finished eighth in the Premier League as they smashed Spurs 4-1, but despite this, they will not be playing in Europe next term.

Fabian Hurzeler's men enjoyed an incredible campaign, but they've been cruelly denied a spot in the Europa Conference League.

Of course, the race for Europe was very complicated, but here is why the Seagulls won't be playing on Thursday nights.

Why have Brighton missed out on European football?

Well, Brighton missing out on the Europa Conference League comes down to Chelsea and Newcastle United.

Going into the final day of the season, Brighton or Brentford knew that they could find themselves in Europe if a couple of scenarios happened.

Whoever finished eighth needed Chelsea to come seventh and then win the Conference League on Wednesday.

If the Blues finished higher, Brighton would have qualified for the Conference League if Newcastle had finished seventh, and Chelsea had won the Conference League.

This is because the Blues would take a spot in the Europa League, freeing up their seventh place to drop down to eighth.

If Newcastle had ended seventh and Chelsea claimed sixth and won the Conference League, that would also have opened up eighth to Europe.

Instead, Chelsea beat Nottingham Forest 1-0 at the City Ground.

This secured Champions League football for the Blues and ensured they finished fourth.

Newcastle lost 1-0 to Everton at St James' Park, but they managed to end up in fifth place with Aston Villa losing at Manchester United, taking the final Champions League spot on offer.

So, despite claiming eighth, there will be no European football for the Seagulls.

It will be Forest who are in the Conference League instead.

Despite missing out on Europe, Hurzeler was delighted with his team's performances this season.

He said: “It’s been challenging, but we went through it together.

“We faced adversity and showed personality and character. I’m very proud of the team and how we performed.

"We collected a high number of points – in many other seasons, it would’ve been enough for Europe.

“But I’m happy we always stuck to our style of play. We never lost it.

"We always had high intensity, showed courage in possession. We’ve built a foundation – and on that we must continue building.

"The main point for next season is consistency. Consistency in results, consistency in performances – that’s where we must improve.”

Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou declared his side's season as 'outstanding' despite finishing 17th in the Premier League.

A 4-1 defeat to Brighton on the final day ensured Tottenham finished the Premier League season on 38 points, their lowest tally since the 1976/77 campaign.

Additionally, the loss was Tottenham's 22nd in the league this term, the most by any team who avoided relegation in the Premier League era.

Luckily for Spurs the sheer lack of quality from Leicester City, Ipswich Town and Southampton ensured the north London outfit were never in a fight for survival.

Despite the defeat, Postecoglou was in an upbeat mood when he was asked how he assessed Tottenham's season.

"Outstanding," Postecoglou responded.

"We won a trophy, which we have not done for 17 years, and we're in the Champions League.

"Ask any supporter at the start of the season if they'd take that and there wouldn't be a person in the house that wouldn't."

Postecoglou was also in no mood to discuss his future after the match and labelled such talk as 'unnecessary'.

Despite ending Tottenham's 17-year wait for a trophy, there has been speculation Postecoglou could still be axed given the club's alarming form in the league.

The Australian remained a defiant figure during Friday's trophy parade to celebrate their Europa League triumph over Manchester United and declared that in 'all the best TV series, season three is better than season two'.

He jokingly noted 'sometimes they kill off the main character' the following day but took a much stronger stance following the Brighton defeat.

"You know my gut feeling? My gut feeling is I feel right now that I’ve done something that no one believed I could," Postecoglou said.

"And I shouldn’t be sitting here talking about it (my future).

"That’s my feeling, but it is what it is.

"As I said I am and probably I am talking now because I’m tired, mate. I have to [talk] about another game and I just want to go on a break and enjoy my family and reflect on being part of something unbelievably special, unbelievably special.

"I’ve been fortunate to be in this position a number of times, but seeing those scenes Friday and people have reached out and talked to me about how it has affected them what has happened over the last couple of days. It’s a beautiful thing and I just want to enjoy that.

"To be honest, the rest of it? You know I don’t even want to be talking about it. I just think it is unnecessary."

Despite the defeat, the mood at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was one of joy following from the team's Europa League triumph last Wednesday.

The feel-good factor was in full flow after just 17 minutes when Dominic Solanke netted from the penalty spot after Mathys Tel was fouled inside the box.

Postecoglou's side repelled Brighton's attacks but were broken open in the 51st minute when Jack Hinshelwood netted the equaliser for the Seagulls.

The 20-year-old had his second just 13 minutes later before late strikes from Matt O'Riley and Diego Gomez sealed the win for the Seagulls.

Ryan Mason is the frontrunner to become the new West Brom manager, talkSPORT understands.

The Baggies are without a permanent boss following Tony Mowbray's departure last month.

James Morrison was placed in interim charge for the final two matches of the Championship season.

Former Queens Park Rangers manager Marti Cifuentes had previously been in the running alongside the Tottenham coach.

Mason now has the decision whether or not to head to the Hawthorns this summer.

The 33-year-old is currently an assistant manager to Ange Postecoglou at Spurs.

He has spent his entire coaching career with the club since retiring in 2018.

During that time, Mason has had two spells as caretaker boss, winning six of his 13 matches in temporary charge.

Those fixtures include a defeat to Manchester City in the 2021 Carabao Cup final.

Meanwhile, he lifted the first major trophy of his career as both a player and coach on Wednesday.

Spurs ended their 17-year wait for silverware by beating Manchester United in the Europa League final.

The club conclude their campaign at home to Brighton on the final day of the Premier League season.

Mason could now leave north London to take on the first managerial role of his coaching career.

It comes after he held talks with Belgian side Anderlecht back in October.

However, the former midfielder ultimately chose to remain in his role at Spurs, where he has two years left on his current contract.

West Brom are heading into their fifth consecutive season in the Championship next term.

The club have finished in the top six just once since their relegation in 2021.

They ended the campaign four points off the play-offs in ninth after beating Luton in their final fixture.

Mowbray's exit in April came after Carlos Corberan had previously left the Baggies earlier in the season.

Their former boss departed the club on Christmas Eve to take over at Spanish side Valencia.

Tottenham Hotspur will have a guard of honour from Brighton & Hove Albion as they return to action after their Europa League triumph.

Spurs beat Manchester United 1-0 in Bilbao on Wednesday to end a 17-year trophy drought, thanks to a Brennan Johnson strike just before half-time.

Celebrations have been in full swing for the north Londoners ever since with boozy scenes at their parade on Friday.

And Brighton boss Hurzeler was delighted for opposite number Ange Postecoglou, who has endured a tough season at the helm.

He told reporters: “I think both teams felt a lot of pressure and in the end Tottenham won. They played very mature, they scored one goal and that’s why they deserved to win. Congrats to them.

“I’m happy for (Postecoglou) because he’s a very good guy. He deserves it. He has a lot of pressure and how he deals with it I think he’s a role model for young coaches as well, like me.

“I’m very happy for him. I know that he worked hard for this and what I really like is that he said already in September after a game against Arsenal (that he wins things in his second season).

"He’s a man who can look into the future and that’s something very impressive.”

Manager Ange Postecoglou has already reveals Cristiano Romero and Heung-Min Son are likely absentees along with a host of long-term injured, including James Maddison.

"There will be a couple of absences," he admitted. "Romero has been struggling with his toe for quite a while so we'll leave him out and probably Sonny because his foot has still not healed.

"They've both sort of made a massive effort to get to the final. Bissouma got a knock in the game and he's kind of 50/50 at the moment. The rest of them physically anyway are ok."

Those who do play against Brighton, though, will be honoured by their rivals.

Asked about a guard of honour, Hurzeler added: “Like we did against Liverpool, if great clubs achieve great things then it’s always a positive thing and also if English clubs achieve great things in the international cups.

"I’m very happy for them. Of course they deserve it, so we will do it.”

And they look set to be joined by a host of Tottenham legends too.

After watching out in Bilbao, their former midfielder Micky Hazard confirmed he was set to participate.

He posted on X: "Looking forward to today, looking forward to making the guard of honour for our team, the atmosphere is going to be electric I can’t wait, I’m so excited it’s untrue.

"Let’s celebrate our trophy all together with pride, let’s be one big happy family COYS."

When all is said and done after Sunday's final game of the season, Postecoglou is looking forward to a nice rest.

And he confirmed his plans to the press in his final Premier League pre-match conference of the campaign.

He revealed: "Just family time and finding some quiet spot. Yeah, that’s got some water and a sun lounger and not too much movement, that will do me.

"Just mainly family time and like I said, time to reflect, not just for myself, but, you know, for my wife, for my kids. Just pretty chilled and laid back.

"It's one of those things where you probably don't realise till you're stopped how tired you are, you know, physically and emotionally and I'm sure that'll hit me Monday morning."

His future is yet to be confirmed given concerns about the club's terrible Premier League form that could see them finish 17th, one place above the relegation zone.

But the Australian has insisted it won't be in his thoughts in the coming days.

"Don't worry about that. I'm good at relaxing mate," he said. "Come Monday, I won't have a care in the world. I won't have a care in the world.

"But, I assume I'll have an indication at some point. Only because, you know, there's some serious planning to do more than anything else. I won't have any problem switching off."

Ange Postecoglou was quick to make light of his Tottenham Hotspur future after telling fans to expect a more successful season next year.

The 59-year-old guided Spurs to Europa League glory midweek as his side beat Manchester United 1-0 in the final to end the club's 17-year trophy drought.

In doing so, Postecoglou made good on the promise he made in September after he insisted he 'always' scoops silverware in his second campaign at a team.

It remains to be seen whether the Australian will remain charge of the north London outfit, who have endured a nightmare Premier League season.

Sitting 17th in the table with just one match remaining, Spurs are guaranteed to finish the term with their most defeats [21] and fewest points in a single Premier League season.

But having secured Champions League qualification as a result of their success in Europe's second-tier competition, Postecoglou has set his sights on bigger success.

Speaking to the club's fans during their open-top bus parade on Friday about his trophy promise, Postecoglou roared: "I told them and they laughed.

"I told them and they didn't believe. And here we are.

"I'll leave you with this, all the best television series, season three is better than season two."

His comment was put to him in his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday's home clash against Brighton.

Asked what supporters can expect in season three, Postecoglou immediately seemed to regret his impassioned message.

He quipped: "I should have thought about it a bit more because as somebody rightly pointed out, sometimes they kill off the main character.

"I could be in strife there!

"I said even before the game, I really believe we’re just building something and a significant win accelerates that.

"I really believe that is the case and I am not going to put a limit on what we can achieve.

"I certainly believe it’s exciting the possibilities of next year knowing I’ve got a group of players now and staff and a club that knows how to win and wants more of it."

Postecoglou's future remains at Spurs remains a hot topic, with many arguing that the club's Europa League triumph has papered over the cracks.

It isn't a view shared by Tottenham icon Robbie Keane, who believes Postecoglou has 'proven everybody wrong' and deserves to keep his spot in the dugout.

When commenting on his future, Postecoglou referenced American TV show Seinfeld, where one of the main characters, George Costanza, turned up for work after he left his job.

He joked: "I haven't given it a lot of thought.

"I refuse to be distracted by anything in terms of the opportunity that was before us, and since the game I just wanted to take the opportunity also to enjoy that as well.

"I haven’t thought about it. I assume at some point somebody will tell me something.

"If not, I'm just gonna roll up next year and be a bit like Costanza from Seinfeld.

"I'll just sit in the desk and get on with my job."

talkSPORT's Simon Jordan issued a swift response to James Maddison after the Tottenham star hit back at his criticism.

Maddison has become a Europa League winner with Spurs following a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the final on Wednesday night.

The 28-year-old didn't play in Bilbao due to a knee injury but scored three goals and assisted four throughout their European campaign.

Despite his absence, he was fully involved in the celebrations and bus parade before heading onto social media to embrace his triumph.

Maddison uploaded a clip of talkSPORT pundit and former Crystal Palace owner Jordan questioning his trophy-winning credentials.

"If you want to win something, you've got to bring players in that are able to operate at the highest level," he said in February.

"I look at players like James Maddison, I think they're good players, but I don't think you'll win things with James Maddison."

"Bookmarked it. Knew it would come in handy," Maddison said, with the end of the video including clips of him with the trophy.

However, Jordan responded by highlighting the midfielder's lack of minutes in the final against United.

He uploaded a screenshot of the Spurs team with Maddison nowhere to be seen, and sarcastically said: "Fair point."

Maddison was likened to Chelsea legend John Terry during the Spurs celebrations after wearing his full kit despite not playing.

Terry iconically did the same thing in 2012 when he was suspended for Chelsea's first Champions League title win against Bayern Munich.

Maddison tagged him in a post on his Instagram story and asked: "Anything to say tonight John?"

But Terry replied by boasting his incredible trophy success during his Chelsea spell and joked: "I remember my first trophy, ah bless them.

"Get the tequila out. Great season from you boys, you should all be proud! 16 [trophies] to go...

"After that performance I think you have a chance. You just have to live for 900 years."

Terry then took a picture of his replica trophy collection at home, with the Premier League and Champions League treasures on show.

Maddison also hit back at Roy Keane, who made a guest appearance on CBS Sports for the Europa League final.

Keane previously said on Stick to Football: "He got relegated with Leicester and he'll get relegated with Spurs."

Then during the post-final scenes, Maddison said: "I wasn't going to do any interviews but then I heard it was with Roy Keane."

He later replicated his darts celebration and shouted: "Roy Keane that's for you son!"

Keane then joked that Maddison played well against United in what was a cheeky dig at his absence from the pitch.

Spurs will return to their Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday as European winners when they host Brighton.

Ange Postecoglou's side will arrive 17th in the table but after their Europa League win, they may not be too concerned on the result.

We need to talk about Kevin

Kevin De Bruyne has agreed terms with Napoli, talkSPORT understands.

A deal to join the Serie A champions is not done yet, but a final decision over his future is expected next week.

De Bruyne will start next season as part of another club for the first time in 10 years as he departs Manchester City.

In April, the Belgian announced he would be leaving Man City when his contract expires at the end of this campaign.

Nev-er gonna happen

Gary Neville won't be anywhere near the City Ground for the final game of the Premier League season on Sunday.

That's because Nottingham Forest have banned the Sky Sports pundit from their home ground.

Following the news, Neville then hit out at the 'disappointing' call from Forest on Instagram and labelled the ban an 'unprecedented action'.

Neville's co-host Jamie Carragher responded to his post with a series of laughing emojis, while David Beckham replied too.

In reference to a result in 1999, Beckham said: "Must have been something to do with that 7-1 game back in the day @gneville2 @manchesterunited."

A commentary team for Sky Sports will still be at the City Ground for the crunch clash, set to kick off at 4pm.

However, Sky will present the match from their studios in west London rather than from Forest's home ground, as had been intended.

Instant regret

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has admitted that he regrets his 'Season Three' comments during their trophy parade.

Postecoglou stated in front of fans on Friday: "In all of the best TV series, season three is always better than season two."

He then joked about those comments in his press conference today, laughing: "I should have thought about it a bit more because as somebody rightly pointed out, sometimes they kill off the main character. I could be in strife there!"

The Spurs manager then added: "I said even before the game, I really believe we're just building something and a significant win accelerates that. I really believe that is the case and I am not going to put a limit on what we can achieve.

"I certainly believe it's exciting the possibilities of next year knowing I've got a group of players now and staff and a club that knows how to win and wants more of it."

On his own future in north London, Postecoglou continued: "Similar to before the game, I haven't had any discussions with the club.

"Like I said, maybe they were just waiting for clear air to give me some guidance, but I haven't heard anything from the club."

Guard of honour

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has revealed that his side will give a guard of honour to Tottenham tomorrow.

Hurzeler has labelled Spurs boss a 'role model' and said he wants to applaud his opponents for winning the Europa League.

He explained: “I think both teams felt a lot of pressure and in the end Tottenham won.

"They played very mature, they scored one goal and that’s why they deserved to win. Congrats to them.

“I’m happy for [Postecoglou] because he’s a very good guy.

"He deserves it. He has a lot of pressure and how he deals with it I think he’s a role model for young coaches as well, like me."

Hurzeler continued to explain why he wants to give a guard of honour, saying: “Like we did against Liverpool, if great clubs achieve great things then it’s always a positive thing.

"I’m very happy for them. They deserve it, so we will do it.”

No comment

Ruben Amorim has refused to speak about transfer rumours surrounding Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho.

Fernandes is linked to Al Hilal who talkSPORT understands are willing to pay £100million to sign the Man United captain.

Meanwhile, Garnacho has been tipped for a move away after throwinf his future into doubt by expressing his frustation at his game time following the Europa League final.

When asked about the pair. Amorim said: "I always speak to my players, but the focus now is on the last game.

"We have a plan and we prepared for both situations, with Champions League and without.

"Now we have to focus on the last game."

He added: "We have an idea of the type of squad we want but now we focus on the game because we still have the last game.

"And we have time to address all these situations."

'Spiralled out of control'

Former Chelsea striker and talkSPORT host Tony Cascarino has discussed Scott McTominay's success at Napoli.

Cascarino pointed out that McTominay's glory in Serie A just brings further to light the drop-off for Manchester United as a club.

He pointed out that multiple ex-players have been thriving and winning trophies this campaign.

"The feeling around the club used to be, if you leave, it's always going downwards," he said on talkSPORT's Weekend Breakfast.

"When you leave United, you're going somewhere worse. That's always the expectation.

"But what I've found quite interesting is that not only Scott McTominay, who has left and reignited his career, but Lukaku has won the Serie A as well.

"And then you've got the Champions League final, you've got Mkhitaryan and Darmian at Inter.

"In the FA Cup final, you had Dean Henderson."

He continued: "There will be plenty of United fans that say they weren't good enough, and maybe they didn't play as good as they could do.

"But there has to be something deeper in this with the club, that never happened in years gone by when players left the club and then excelled and went on to win things.

"You were always winning things with your club, Man United. It just shows you how the club have spiralled out of control."

Extension

Newcastle have confirmed that Dan Burn has signed a new contract at the club, extending his stay until 2027.

Burn, whose original deal was set to run out this summer, joined the club in 2022 and has played a major part in their success.

He scored in the Carabao Cup final, in which the Magpies claimed their first major trophy in 70 years.

Speaking about his extension, the centre-back said: "I'm delighted to sign a new deal here. I knew that I was going into my last year and I really wanted to get my future tied down.

"I've said before that I would love to finish my career here, so to be given that opportunity, I'm very grateful.

"I still feel like I'm getting better and I don't feel that I've hit the top of the hill yet.

"It'll be tough to top this season but hopefully we can do that over the next couple of years.

"It's a dream come true to be playing for this club and I'm delighted that I get to keep doing it."

'I could not have been more disappointed'

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has criticised fans for their treatment of Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Alexander-Arnold, who will depart Anfield this summer to join Real Madrid, has been booed since announcing his decision to leave when his contract expires.

It has been widely debated whether that was the right thing for supporters to do to a player born and bred in Liverpool who went on to win many major trophies.

But Klopp is certainly on the side that didn't think it was right.

He told the LFC Foundation Gala Ball on Friday: "I don't want to tell anyone what they should think, I don't want to say what you have to think, but I can tell you what you think is wrong.

"I am an old man and I don't waste time with hiding my opinion.

"I watched the game when he came on and I heard the booing. I'm old, so it may be my hearing, so I turned up the volume and said 'That's booing'.

"I needed another 10 seconds to realise and then I switched the telly off. I honestly could not have been more disappointed in this moment. This is not us, 100 per cent.

"I don't tell you you should not be disappointed or angry, I tell you 'Don't forget'. This club does not forget. We are famous for not forgetting.

"We don't forget anything: we don't forget the good thing and we don't forget the bad thing. But we ignore the bad things and remember the good things.

"You don't have to be happy he is going but don't forget what he did for this club because I can't forget it."

'The Voice of Anfield' to retire after more than 50 years

Liverpool have confirmed George Sephton, affectionately known as 'The Voice of Anfield', will step down at the end of the season.

Since taking his place in the Anfield gantry in 1971, Sephton's tones have become synonymous with the Reds for more than five decades.

From announcing the teams to playing the perfect track to match the mood, his tenure will end this weekend.

On Sunday, Liverpool hosts Crystal Palace before lifting the Premier League trophy at the conclusion of the 2024-25 campaign finale.

Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com about stepping down, George said: "It's been the honour of a lifetime to be known as 'The Voice of Anfield'.

"I've been privileged to have a front-row seat at some of the greatest occasions in football history – memories I will cherish forever.

"Anfield has been my second home for over 50 years, and I've loved every moment. But the time is right to pass the microphone on."

Paul Cuttill, vice president of stadium operations at LFC, added: "George Sephton is more than just a stadium announcer – he is a part of the fabric of Anfield.

"His voice has soundtracked countless unforgettable moments in our club's history, and his presence in the gantry will be deeply missed. We thank him for his remarkable tenure and dedication to the club."

Making Emil of it

Unai Emery has insisted that Emiliano Martinez is focused on Aston Villa’s next game rather than transfer speculation over his future.

The Argentine international looked emotional after the 1-0 win over Tottenham in the club's final home match of the season.

However, Emery played down talk linking the 32-year-old with a move away

He said: “He is so focused, he showed last week against Tottenham, he is performing very well now he is in his best moment.

“It is difficult for the team, it has been difficult for some players, for myself I was struggling five months ago with not enough results we achieved in that moment.

“But now I am so so happy with the individual responses of the players, how the team is focused in each match – as well some players with some speculation.

“But my only speculation is to play on Sunday, to be ready for Sunday and to get our best performances on Sunday.”

Hammer it home

West Ham boss Graham Potter has reacted to his captain Jarrod Bowen being excluded from Thomas Tuchel's England squad.

The 28-year-old has been the one leading light for the Hammers this term, who are down in 15 in the table following a horror season.

However, Bowen has had nine goal involvements in his last 11 Premier League games, seven more than Chelsea's Noni Madueke, who has just two, but was called-up by Tuchel.

Irons boss Potter said: "Well, it is not my thing to pick that squad. I have full respect for the England manager.

"[I'm] disappointed for Jarrod, but we will support him and he’ll carry on doing what he’s doing for us.

"He will be naturally disappointed. Of course, every player wants to play for their country.

"He has trained well for us and he will be looking forward to the game [on Sunday]."

Talk of the Town

Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna has confirmed that Liam Delap was given permission to hold talks with clubs this week.

As talkSPORT reported on Monday, Delap has already met Manchester United and will also speak to top brass at Chelsea.

The England Under-21 striker, who has scored 12 goals for relegated Ipswich, has also attracted interest from Newcastle.

The former Manchester City youngster has a £30million release clause following the Tractor Boys' drop into the Championship.

Delap would ideally prefer to return to the north west, but will consider several factors, including the chance to play in Europe next season.

Asked about his star man's future, McKenna said: "Liam's looking at his options for next year, which I think he's entitled to do, and we support him with that.

"So, yes, we've given him the permission to do that this week.

"It's a very important decision for his future. Of course, there's a lot of interest and rightly so. So that's been part of his week, he's been having some of those conversations.

"It looks, I think more likely than not, that he'll move on this summer. He has interest from pretty much every club in the league. I don't think there's many clubs in the world who wouldn't want to have him. So I think it's more likely than not that he'll move on.

"Of course, nothing's sorted, nothing's done or completed or even I think very, very, very close. That process will take its course.

"We'll, of course, be proud of the part that we've had in terms of Liam's development and his contribution this season.

"If he stays with us, we'll be delighted. If he does move on this summer, then it will be a positive sign for the club, a positive step for the club, to have developed and sold a player at that sort of level. Hopefully, it will be a good move for him."

Asked if he'll advise Delap on where he thinks he should go, McKenna replied: "Yeah, though that had to stay private. I've spoken to Liam and he knows that I'll always try and help him anywhere possible.

"He has a fantastic relationship with the other staff here and other people around the club. He knows that we're here to support him and help him and guide him as we have done from the first day."

Ruud awakening

Leicester boss Ruud van Nistelrooy on his Foxes future: "If you look at the job, my job, I'm responsible for the good of the football club.

"It could be an opportunity to start planning early, which would have benefited the club.

"It is not about me and my future - it's about what's good for the club. Of course, it is up to them with how they want to deal with it. Then I will focus and continue to do so over the coming days. That's the job.

"They (Leicester's board) know what I think and how I see things - it is up to them to respond to that. We will all find out, hopefully sooner rather than later."

He added: "Those six weeks we have been working on a certain development and preparation for next season.

"That came with development of individuals, with [positive] results and good performance, closing cycles, and bringing some positivity to the support. That is what my focus is."

Pep talk

On Phil Foden having a difficult season and saying he has had mental fatigue, Pep Guardiola said: "That is true, Phil has said that.

"A baby, baby, baby boy from the Academy becoming a star for us, and we want to help him. He needs rest, and it's going to happen after Sunday, and step by step, it's going to happen.

"It's what we want, we want to help, I want to help.

"I don't care about his performance on the pitch, I want him to feel good and the rest will come in an easy way."

On Foden being omitted from the England squad after carrying an ankle injury: "For a long time, he has been struggling with his ankle.

"What happens with the international team is down to Thomas Tuchel."

Guardiola added that "in principle", Foden will go to the Club World Cup this summer, despite this ankle injury.

'Some missing players will be a big part of U21s tournament'

England boss Thomas Tuchel on players like Adam Wharton missing out: "We had Adam Wharton train with us in the last camp.

"He was with the Under 21s but trained with us and was very, very good.

"At the moment, there is a little injury problem - a concussion protocol going on from the FA Cup final.

"Together with Tino Livramento, Jarell Quansah, Elliott Anderson, and Liam Delap - all names who could play a role for us but a major tournament comes up for the Under-21s, and the intention is they play a big part in this tournament.

"I like it a lot that they have chances to be leaders in this group, to be players we hopefully will rely on.

"We will monitor them closely, but we decided that with these players, they take the responsibility for the Under-21s."