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Cristian Romero's Tottenham future has already been decided, according to Simon Jordan.

The Spurs defender still has two years remaining on his contract in north London, however, Romero revealed on Monday night that he would 'love' to play in LaLiga as his current side's woes continue.

Spurs suffered their 18th Premier League defeat of the campaign on Monday night with Nottingham Forest claiming a 2-1 win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The loss leaves Ange Postecoglou's side 16th in the table and just a point above 17th-placed West Ham.

Following the match, Romero spoke to Argentine journalist Gaston Edul, who asked him about his future.

In response, he explained: "I’d love to play LaLiga. I’d love to, honestly. It depends on a lot of things. We’ll see after the championship is over.

"The truth is, I haven’t spoken to my agent yet, but I’m open to anything. My goal is always to grow and go to new places to continue developing."

Jordan has now commented on Romero's remarks as he criticised the World Cup winner for thinking he's 'bigger than the club'.

Speaking on White and Jordan, the talkSPORT co-host stated: "Well, I think the die is cast for Romero anyway, I think there's already an established position.

"He's probably going to go at the end of the season. He's a very good player but there's a couple of times I've seen him over the years as far as where he thinks he's bigger than the club and some of his performances have exhibited that at times.

"He's got more quality than the current framework has allowed it to manifest itself in the rest of the team. I don't think it's very helpful.

"I don't think it was helpful a couple of years ago when he was a player that clearly felt that he didn't belong in this position, belonged somewhere else, but you signed for Tottenham.

"Listen, context is everything. If people are asking him the question rather than him volunteering information. He can keep schtum or you can say, ‘my lifetime's ambition at some point is to play in LaLiga’.

"But I think it's already been said we were talking about last week, Romero is likely to be going out the door and Tottenham will rebuild with the right culture."

Romero has made 23 appearances across all competitions for Spurs so far this season.

Those include the first half on Monday as he started alongside Micky van de Ven in central defence.

However, he was replaced at half-time by Kevin Danso after picking up a yellow card just minutes before the interval.

Romero has also struggled with injuries this season, notably missing three months with a hamstring issue between December and March.

Meanwhile, Spurs could still qualify for Europe next season despite their lowly league position.

They face Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League semi-finals next month.

The winner of the competition will earn a place in next season's Champions League.

When it rains, it pours, and Tottenham remain trapped in the club’s worst deluge in recent memory.

Monday night’s 2-1 home defeat at the hands of Nottingham Forest marked the north London side’s 18th league defeat of the season.

If you had been out of the loop, you’d be forgiven for thinking the roles had been purposely reversed by a prankster telling you Forest were third and closing in on Champions League football and Spurs 16th with five defeats from their last seven league games.

But watching Monday’s clash was enough to purr over Nuno Espirito Santo’s impressive side while trying to figure out what on earth is going on at Tottenham.

Shameful, shocking, and atrocious are just some of the words attributed to Ange Postecoglou’s underachieving side in recent weeks, while others have preferred to vent their dissatisfaction with their feet.

And former Spurs midfielder Jamie O’Hara added a few extra damning words to the ever-growing list of adjectives.

“I don’t know what to say, it's so painful,” he told talkSPORT on Monday night.

“I can’t defend it, the league form is a disgrace. I think some of them (players) should be ashamed of themselves because the Premier League is where it's at and 18 Premier league defeats is disgusting, it's unacceptable.

“Some of these players are on a lot of money. Have some pride in your performance for crying out loud, you're playing for Tottenham in one of the best stadiums in the world.

“No heart, no passion, no desire to win a game.”

With Postecoglou unable to find a way out of the slump, his players unable to deliver the performances expected of a quintessential big-six club, and fans’ discontent at an all-time high.

The Australian appears to be hanging onto his job by a thread helped by the club’s Europa League hopes.

Spurs face Bodø/Glimt in the semi-finals and with the Norwegians being far from European heavyweights, they will fancy themselves against Postecoglou’s dysfunctional side.

Spurs look tired, physically and mentally, something Bodø/Glimt are not considering they are just three games into the Norwegian League season.

And if Tottenham do the unthinkable and fall short, then a change in the dugout is inevitable.

And it seems that some fans are already formulating their list of possible successors with one Spurs fan proposing an ambitious move for a true managerial legend who could be on the market soon.

“When people are talking about managers, [Carlo] Ancelotti’s going to get the sack isn't he? Would you go to him?" Tottenham fan John asked O’Hara on The Sports Bar.

But an already frustrated O’Hara was in no mood for bold suggestions and ranted at the fan.

“Who are you on about? Spurs?,” O’Hara replied. “John, are you having a wind-up? He’s going to get the Brazil job, what are you talking about, he’s been at Real Madrid."

The fan responded saying: “Yeah, but he went to Everton.”

The talkSPORT host hit back: "Because he was on £18million a year and he dipped as soon as Real Madrid phoned him.

Like many Spurs fans, O’Hara cut a tired and drained figure during the show and continued to rant at the current state of play at the club.

“You can’t lose like this every week,” he added. “The manager can’t stay in the job even if he wins the Europa League. You can’t lose 18 games in the Premier League and be a Tottenham manager.

“Every game, we’re 1-0, 2-0 down, there's no pride. It costs good money to watch Tottenham play, it’s not cheap down there.”

He then finished with a damning parting shot, saying: “He’s probably the worst Premier League manager Spurs have ever had.”

VAR’s biggest critics had an eight-minute respite due to a fire alarm during Nottingham Forest’s 2-1 win over Tottenham.

The video assistant refereeing system went down at the end of the first half with the visitors two goals to the good at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The Premier League announced there had been an issue on their social channels, writing in a statement: "The match will be operating without VAR until further notice due to a fire alarm at the VAR Hub at Stockley Park."

John Brooks and assistant Dan Robathan were on duty at the time, as usual off-site in Stockley Park.

They’d earlier had to intervene in the tenth minute when Chris Wood thought he’d scored a second soon after Elliot Anderson’s opener.

However, Wood had just gone too early off the shoulder of Micky van de Ven and the infringement was flagged by the recently introduced semi-automated offside system.

The VAR ratified the call, and Wood later got his goal in the 16th minute.

Yet the half-time fire disruption wasn’t exactly ideal, given that there were a flurry of surprise changes at the break.

Peter Bankes was left solo to start the second half, but it was fourth official Tony Harrington who had the bulk of the work on the touchline.

Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou opted to swap out his centre backs, taking off Van de Ven and Cristian Romero for Kevin Danso and Ben Davies.

Meanwhile, Forest’s Nuno Espirito Santo traded Anthony Elanga for Morato.

There were no major incidents to start the half, and then the Premier League offered another update, saying: "VAR is now back up and running".

Thankfully nothing out of the ordinary happened during the eight minute outage, with the drama in the match reserved for late on.

Spurs pushed to get back into the game and were rewarded in the 87th minute through Richarlison.

But his goal proved to be nothing more than a consolation as Forest held on for a massive 2-1 win that lifts them back into the Premier League’s top three.

Spurs, meanwhile, remain all the way down in 16th, two places from the relegation zone but with a massive 16-point buffer.

Focus is clearly on the Europa League for Spurs, who face Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt over two legs in the semi-finals as they chase their first trophy since 2008.

Taking the positives ahead of the first leg in London on May 1, Postecoglou told talkSPORT: “Our football after [conceding the goals] was outstanding.

“I think even with that start we deserved to win the game with the way we played and the opportunities we had but it doesn’t deny that we did lose another game of football.

"On the balance of play we should've won that game, things aren't falling our way in front of goal, but the overwhelming feeling for me is disappointment about another loss."

Stagnant

Tottenham's form heading into tonight's home clash against Nottingham Forest makes for some grim reading.

Since beating Manchester City 4-0 on November 23, Spurs have won just 18 points from the 60 they had available.

Only five wins have come during that time, with 12 ending in defeat.

European qualification is out of the question, unless they win the Europa League next month.

Defeat to Forest would only add more pressure on the continental campaign, so it's a huge night ahead for the north London side.

Unexpected

Nuno Espirito Santo admits he's been left surprised with how poor Tottenham's season has been.

Although there's 16 points between them and the bottom three, Spurs are 16th in the table with just 11 wins.

Defeat to Forest tonight, live on talkSPORT, would be their 18th of the campaign.

And opposition boss Espirito Santo has been shocked by their shortcomings given the quality within their squad.

"I think this season there are things that were not expected, and the Spurs situation is clearly one of them.

"All the teams have problems, some more than others. I'm not deeply informed on the Spurs situation, but we are talking about a big club full of talented players.

"They have a good manager that in previous seasons did fantastically well. It happens, and it's happened to many teams."

Furious

Jamie Vardy has posted an emotional statement on Instagram after Leicester were relegated back to the Championship.

The striker has been at the Foxes since 2012 and won the Premier League title with them but now faced a second relegation in three years.

Taking to Instagram the day after their 1-0 defeat to Liverpool, he revealed his anger and frustration with what has been a dismal season.

"At this point, I don’t even know what to say. No words I have can ever express my feelings of anger and sadness with the way this season has gone. There are no excuses.

"Collectively, as players and as a club, we failed. There is simply no hiding, and I refuse to entertain any suggestion of doing so.

"Having been at this club for so long, we’ve experienced so many highs and successes — and this season has been nothing but miserable and for me personally, a total embarrassment.

"It hurts, and I know you’re feeling it too.

"To the fans: I’m sorry. Sorry we haven’t performed, and sorry we end the 2025 season with such a s**t show."

Gone, but not forgotten

Virgil van Dijk says Trent Alexander-Arnold will 'always be remembered' at Liverpool if leaves the club in the summer.

Alexander-Arnold is yet to sign a new contract and looks set to join Real Madrid for next season.

The right-back has been at the Reds for 21 years and won every major trophy possible, with Van Dijk not looking to hold any grudges.

"Whatever may happen in the future for him, that's something that he has to resolve with himself and the family.

"But he's a Liverpool player at this point and he's important for our team.

"Since I joined the club, he has been a fantastic player and there's a lot of good things that he will always be remembered for if he decides to leave.

"But listen, at this point, we don't know as a group what's going to happen.

"He is already under a lot of pressure already I think so there is no point for me to put him on the spot whatsoever."

'It can kill you'

talkSPORT's Scott Minto believes the pressure of playing for Manchester United is getting to Rasmus Hojlund.

Hojlund has scored just three goals in 28 Premier League matches this season as United continue to languish in 14th.

He has 24 goals from 88 club appearances since signing in 2023, and former Chelsea defender Minto believe they need a new striker.

"I think it goes to show how Rasmus Hojlund is feeling right now. We saw Alan Shearer, obviously one of the very best, say he looks a broken man.

"I've been saying on the talkSPORT All Access podcast for over 12 months now, there are certain clubs and certain positions, where you can't risk potential, you have to have ready-made.

"United, whatever people say, wherever they are in the league, are the biggest club in this country.

"The pressure, the weight of that shirt, especially in such a crucial position, it can kill you, it can break you. And he does look a broken man at the moment.

"He's still trying to do the right things but the bottom line is, Manchester United need to bring in a striker next season, and they need to be ready-made, if not world-class, then close to world-class."

Not done yet

Dominic Solanke believes Tottenham are '100 per cent' capable of winning the Europa League but wants to build more momentum with greater consistency in the Premier League.

Spurs produced one of the finest displays of the Ange Postecoglou era on Thursday to claim a 1-0 victory away to Eintracht Frankfurt and book a semi-final showdown with Bodo/Glimt next month.

Before Tottenham play only their second European last-four encounter for 40 years, Postecoglou's side host Nottingham Forest on Monday before a trip to Liverpool on Sunday and midweek match-winner Solanke wants to arrest the club's poor domestic form.

Asked if Spurs can win the Europa League, Solanke insisted: "100 per cent. When we've got everyone fit, we believe we can beat anyone.

"This cup was something we had our eyes on from the start of the season. We're not far off it now so hopefully we can keep producing these performances in the cup and league throughout the rest of the season and kick on.

"We all know we need to be more consistent from game to game. When you have a game like this, you need to go out there and show no fear and get the job done.

"There's no second chances in knock-out football so we knew we had to go and get the job done and that's what we did."

Opposition

Aston Villa chairman Nassef Sawiris has bemoaned the financial rules in the Premier League.

Since a consortium involving Sawiris and Wes Edens bought a 55 per cent stake at Villa in 2018, the club have received vital funding.

However, strict financial rules have led them to selling young players in a bid to become profitable and avoid sanctions.

Speaking to the Financial Times, Sawiris complained about the current regulations and how they appear to aid 'Big Six' sides.

"The Premier League is under the impression that what makes it great is Manchester United and Liverpool and Chelsea and Arsenal, so they have to cater for these guys.

"But what makes the Premier League great is that Manchester United get their butts kicked by Brighton."

Also mentioned in the interview is Aston Villa's plans to increase their capacity at Villa Park.

It currently holds around 42,640 fans but could be boosted to more than 50,000 as Sawiris eyes a £100million investment into the team.

Despite this, the stadium's development remains pending as local officials work towards the expansion of rail links.

Decision

Graeme Souness believes Trent Alexander-Arnold is the easiest player to let go from Liverpool this summer.

The defender's contract expires in June and he looks set to complete a move to Real Madrid ahead of next season.

Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk also faced uncertain futures but have signed new deals at Liverpool beyond the summer.

Reds legend Souness spoke to talkSPORT Breakfast about Alexander-Arnold's pending exit and how he could be easier to replace.

"I fully get why Trent would maybe fancy another challenge, he's been at that club since he was a boy," he said.

"Who's to say, he's at an age where he can go away, not fancy wherever he goes and comes back and rejoins Liverpool?

"But out of the three players not that you'd have to pick and want to pick, but he'd be the one you'd sacrifice.

"Similarly because I feel you've got Conor Bradley who's ready, he just needs to keep himself fit but he's maybe just growing into his body.

"The other two, there is no obvious replacement for Salah, no obvious replacement for Van Dijk."

Time for change

Gary Neville believes there's more work to be done to close the gap between the Premier League and the Championship.

Southampton, Leicester City and Ipswich Town are all set to be relegated after just one season in the top flight.

The former two clubs have already had their relegations confirmed whilst Ipswich look all but set to go down with them.

It's highlighted the immense struggles that promoted sides face when they reach the Premier League amid the sheer difference in finances

Manchester United legend and Salford City co-owner Neville has called for change to bring more balance between the leagues.

"There's no doubt it's becoming more fixed, the Premier League, that's a fact," he told Sky Sports.

"Not necessarily the three same teams going up and down, but it's becoming more and more difficult the same five or six teams going up and down, it's becoming more difficult for teams to become permanent or semi-permanent in the Premier League.

"There are some clubs who have done it successfully, but you always get the feeling that there are certain clubs at the start of the season who have got a chance of going down, and some no chance of going down.

"I think that's becoming more fixed, and that's definitely something to be concerned about. One thing we always talk about with the Premier League is the competitive nature of the entire league, and we can't ever lose that.

"The relegation and promotion is something that over in this country we sort of cherish. Anybody can come from step six, seven, eight in the pyramid all the way through to the Premier League.

"Luton I think have gone from the National League up to the Premier League in the last few years, so that's a great story. But it's becoming more of an exception as the years go by.

"So it's something we need to keep an eye on, the disparity between the finances of the Premier League and Championship are there for all to see.

"The parachute payments put real pressure on clubs in the Championship to have to try and compete.

"Big challenges and I think there is something needed, but I don't think that's for today. I think that the authorities, there's a regulator coming in, there are negotiations ongoing between the Premier League and the EFL.

"Hopefully they do become concluded at some point in the future, because I'd like to see it just balance out a bit more than it currently is."

Time for change

talkSPORT's Gabby Agbonlahor believes Leicester City should make a managerial change now following their Premier League relegation.

Ruud van Nistelrooy replaced Steve Cooper in November but has won just two of his 20 league matches, losing 16 of them.

Van Nistelrooy will hold talks with the Foxes board over his future this week, but Agbonlahor thinks he needs to leave.

"I would sack him today," he said on talkSPORT Breakfast. "I think they were 16th when Steve Cooper left, now they're relegated with five games to go.

"It's been an absolute nightmare, he's won two games in the Premier League, it hasn't worked.

"Sometimes as an owner, you probably think, 'Big name, Van Nistelrooy.' But it hasn't worked, what's the point in being there?

"You're not going to be there next season. I would make a change now. I said it with Southampton as well, make a change now so you can look at the players that are left.

"Four or five games left, see who you want next season, play them for the rest of the season now.

"The players that you know are going to leave in the summer, don't play them. But, it's not worked with Van Nistelrooy."

Big boost

Pedro Neto believes Chelsea deserved the late 2-1 win at Fulham that boosted their Champions League qualification hopes.

Fulham led through Alex Iwobi but a first Premier League goal from substitute Tyrique George had the visiting Blues level.

Neto then struck the winner in stoppage-time with an excellent finish and has lauded his side's desire to win all three points.

"It could be a good part of the season for us," Neto told the Chelsea website.

"We showed the character. To be honest I have no words to describe what this team has done.

"It’s not easy to spend all season in the top four and then be out of it before this game, but the character the team showed is really good.

"We have to think about Everton next week and winning against them too. The belief has always been there, even in the bad moments.

"Everyone has bad moments and what you have to do is continue like this. Sometimes the game is not about the quality, it is about the spirit, and that is what we showed today.

"The mentality we have and the group that we are, and I think that we deserved it today."

Optimism

Mikel Arteta is hopeful of Bukayo Saka returning to action as soon as possible after his injury against Ipswich Town.

Saka was fouled by Leif Davis during the Gunners' 4-0 win on Sunday, with the latter being sent off for his nasty challenge.

The Arsenal winger was substituted and seen with an ice pack on his leg in the second half, but Arteta says it isn't too serious.

"I don't think it is intentional but it was dangerous," Arteta said.

"I do [worry] with the numbers that we have right now, especially when the player has his back to goal.

"Because that is the moment when the foot is planted, your weight is there, and you cannot really react.

"He cuts him from the back. The referee made a decision, and that it is clear. He was a bit sore, but it's nothing serious, so it's good."

'We weren't good enough'

Christian Eriksen has lamented Manchester United's efforts in the final third following their 1-0 defeat at home to Wolves.

A dramatic and morale-boosting Europa League win over Lyon on Thursday wasn't enough to distract United from their league form.

They fell to a 15th defeat of the season after an excellent Wolves free-kick from Pablo Sarabia at Old Trafford.

United, who sit 14th, will soon finish with their worst ever points tally in the Premier League.

And Eriksen has reflected on another dismal result that has seen Wolves complete a league double over them.

"I think it was pretty easy to get over. I think obviously we changed a lot of the team from Thursday... We had our chances [on Sunday].

"No matter if we played Thursday or not, I think we had enough energy to win the game and, in the end, it was just small details.

"We weren't good enough in the last end. It is football, in a nutshell.

"Sometimes if you have a good game but don't score any goals, then the opposition will always have a chance to take the lead and take the win. Unfortunately, they did that."

Slowly but surely

With a little over a month left of the Premier League season, the top and bottom ends of the table are shaping up even further.

Liverpool are on the verge of becoming champions after their 1-0 win at Leicester City on Sunday.

They will be crowned as title winners on Wednesday if second-placed Arsenal lose at home to Crystal Palace.

Leicester have been relegated from the Premier League and will join Southampton in the Championship next season.

Ipswich Town are still mathematically safe from the drop for now, but 15 points adrift of safety and look set for relegation too.

Although top spot and the bottom three are all but confirmed, there is still an intriguing battle for European qualification.

A stoppage-time winner from Pedro Neto gave Chelsea a huge 2-1 win at Fulham to put them in the final Champions League spot.

However, Nottingham Forest will overtake them with a win against Tottenham tonight, live on talkSPORT.

There are just two points separating Newcastle in third and Aston Villa in seventh ahead of the final weeks.

How much?

Tyler Dibling has laughed off his £100million price tag and revealed how his Southampton teammates have been teasing him about it.

Saints have reportedly slapped the eye-watering fee on their exciting 19-year-old winger in a bid to keep hold of him after relegation from the Premier League.

Goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, in particular, has been ribbing Dibling by joking his price goes down every time he misses a shot.

"There's a few nicknames going around," said the England Under-21 international. "It is all jokes. Nobody takes it seriously. It's just a number. It's all fun.

"'Rambo' loves it to be fair. I'll miss a shot in training and he'll just go '90 million' or '80 million' as it goes down.

"It's all good fun but I'm just trying to practice every day and to get better."

Dibling has been linked with Newcastle and Manchester United while a host of Bundesliga clubs have also shown an interest.

But he added: "I don't try to think about it and just go in to train every day and work hard and train the best I can.

"At the end of the day, I love Southampton. I have been here since I was eight. It is such a great team and I am working to do big things with them."

talkSPORT understands

Ruud van Nistelrooy will hold talks with the Leicester City board next week over his future at the club.

Leicester's immediate return to the Championship was confirmed today with the Foxes failing to beat Liverpool at the King Power Stadium.

When asked about his future after the 1-0 defeat, Van Nistelrooy said: "I'm working, as I say, in the coming weeks, it's my job to do everything in the interest of Leicester City Football Club.

"And that's what I'm doing with young talent joining the first-team training, second appearance of Monga in the Premier League at 15 years old, a lot of young players starting and playing excellent games and it's all a benefit for their development into next season and that's my job for now.

"Of course, I'm waiting on the clarity of the club, how they want to continue."

When asked if he wants to lead Leicester back to the Premier League, he replied: "It's what I'm doing now, it's what I'm doing and it's the goal to lead the club in the best way possible. But of course I have to wait on how the club sees things and then take it from there."

He added: "I'm doing my job with the responsibility to do the best for the football club for now until the end of the season. I'm waiting on the direction the club wants to go and see if we can get aligned on that."

Not good enough

Leicester's Conor Coady admitted that the Foxes just haven't had the quality to remain in the Premier League this season.

In an honest interview with Sky Sports, Coady said: "Listen, we've not been good enough all year. We haven't.

"If we look at today, I thought we played and we nullified Liverpool quite well, they're a world-class side.

"But if we look back at the season, it hasn't been anywhere near good enough from a club point of view.

"But we have to look at ourselves in the mirror. We have to now. What's happened has happened.

"And we have to try to put the club in a better position come the summer. That's what we have to try and do.

"We took a bit of stick, we will take on keeping stick because it's deservedly so. From minute one this season, we haven't been able to fully compete in the Premier League.

"You need to be or it will eat you up and spit you out. It's something we have to look at, because we're devastated."

'I'm not going to speak on it'

Trent Alexander-Arnold has refused to speak about his future at Liverpool after his game-winning goal.

talkSPORT understands that Alexander-Arnold has agreed to join Real Madrid at the end of his contract this summer.

However, after his passionate celebration this afternoon, could it have hinted at a potential U-turn?

Speaking to Sky Sports post-match, he said: "I'm not going to speak on my situation or go into details.

"These days are always special, scoring goals, winning games, being close to winning titles - they are special moments that will live with me forever. And I'm glad to be part of it."

He was also pushed to the front of the celebrations in front of the Liverpool fans after the whistle by his teammates.

On that, he added: "[Virgil] pushed me to the front to soak it in to get close and personal - the away fans are amazing.

"They've pushed us every game. They helped us win the game. As much as we do it for ourselves and our families, we do it for the fans.

"They're the ones who spend the money and travel to games, it's the least they deserve.

"To be so close to winning a league title - a first one in front of fans, which is what we're missing - is very special."

Tottenham and Nottingham Forest is a game with plenty of history - but there is one match that didn't finish that lives long in the memory.

The 1991 FA Cup final win was historic for Spurs but also marked another shift in supremacy between the two sides with the Tricky Trees regularly besting them throughout the 1990s.

It's like a shifting of the poles, either Tottenham are on top - as they were in the late 1960s, early 1980s, and since Forest's 1999 relegation - or it's Forest in control.

But in 1996, an FA Cup match between the pair looked as if it was being played at the North Pole.

With Tottenham looking to get a rare 1990s win over Forest, they travelled to the City Ground on February 19.

But any optimism they had about reaching the quarter-finals was whipped away by the swirling winds that brought a blizzard spiralling in.

The weather began to change an hour before kick off when snow started falling, but forecasts back then weren’t good enough to predict the chaos that was about to unfold.

Just ten minutes into the clash a blizzard hit the City Ground, and five minutes later things became unbearable.

Officials attempted to salvage things by swapping the standard white ball for an orange winter one, but even those efforts were vain.

The pitch’s white lines soon blended into their new background and the only decision left for referee Gary Willard to take was a suspension after minutes.

Speaking at the time, Tottenham manager Gerry Francis said: "It became impossible.

“Everyone on the line would have got pneumonia if they had stayed out any longer. We would have turned into snowmen.

"No arguments, it had become ridiculous. I’m disappointed, of course, because we had started well."

His opposite number at Forest, Frank Clark, was in agreement, saying: "There was nothing else that the referee could do tonight.

"I have not seen a snowstorm like it since I was a boy in the North-east."

However, there may have been one disagreement, with Francis concerned whether a booking for Jason Dozzell would stand.

"If there had been a goal, it would not have counted," he said.

Luckily for Francis, he was able to duck for cover in the City Ground’s tunnel to speak to the press, but the same couldn’t be said for his team’s supporters.

The match became part of Tottenham folklore with talks of epic journeys back to London through thick and treacherous snow.

The match contained a number of Premier League greats like Sol Campbell, Teddy Sheringham and Kevin Campell, while on the bench was Alf Inge Haaland, a man infinitely more famous now thanks to his already iconic son.

The FA managed to re-arrange the match just nine days later, and it was a 2-2 draw in far better conditions, with Ian Woan and Chris Armstrong both netting doubles.

However, Spurs fans thinking they might finally get a reward for their February 19 struggles were left disappointed by the return leg in London.

Bryan Roy and Sheringham traded goals in a 1-1 draw before Forest qualified for the next round with a win on penalties.

Tottenham Hotspur return to their home ground on Monday night for a Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest, whose Champions League hopes have taken a hit in recent weeks.

Spurs have nothing left to play for in the top flight, but they will still be keen to end the season strongly. Who will win this one in north London?

Tottenham Hotspur vs Nottingham Forest best bets

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals - 8/11 with Paddy Power

Nottingham Forest to score first - 10/11 with SBK

Anthony Elanga to score any time - 13/4 with Betfred

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Tottenham Hotspur vs Nottingham Forest predictions

Tottenham Hotspur’s season is still alive.

A 1-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday secured a 2-1 aggregate win in their Europa League quarter-final. The north Londoners are through to the semis, where they will face Norwegian upstarts Bodo/Glimt.

Kjetil Knutsen’s side have just knocked out Lazio, so they should not be underestimated. It is clear, though, that Tottenham are the favourites in that upcoming tie, the first instalment of which is scheduled for May 1.

Ange Postecoglou’s side are now a maximum of three wins away from the Europa League trophy and securing a place in next year’s Champions League. This has been a tumultuous campaign for Spurs, yet it might still be a glorious one.

Postecoglou gave a spiky reaction to journalists at his post-match press conference following the impressive success against Frankfurt.

"Unfortunately for a lot of you, you're going to have to put up with me for a little bit longer. So let's see how that goes," Postecoglou said.

"I think I said yesterday, I am the same manager today that I was yesterday, so if people think us winning tonight makes me a better manager or whoever thinks I wasn't doing a good job yesterday, should be feeling the same way.”

Postecoglou is certainly not a bad manager, but he has not done a good job in the Premier League this term. His team are 15th in the table heading into Easter weekend. By the time they take to the field on Monday, Tottenham could be as low as 17th.

Yes there have been injuries along the way, with Spurs harder hit than most, but they should be doing much better. As the head coach, the buck ultimately stops with Postecoglou.

Even if Tottenham have nothing left to play for in the Premier League, they must try to end the season as strongly as possible - starting with Monday’s match.

Nottingham Forest will not roll over, though. The division’s surprise package this season, Forest are fighting for Champions League qualification.

They have gone slightly off the boil of late. Back-to-back defeats by Aston Villa and Everton have left Nuno Espirito Santo’s side looking over their shoulder.

Forest will be desperate to get back on track at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Nottingham Forest betting tips

This season has not gone as expected for either Tottenham Hotspur or Nottingham Forest - albeit in very different ways.

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals

Tottenham deserve credit for their performance against Eintracht Frankfurt last time out.

They were put under pressure by their hosts, but Spurs defended manfully and posed a threat on the break.

It was an uncharacteristically disciplined display from Tottenham. Yet it is only a week since they shipped four goals to Wolverhampton Wanderers in a 4-2 defeat.

This is more likely to be an open and end-to-end encounter than a tight and cagey one. After all, there has been a league-high average of 3.41 goals in Tottenham’s 32 matches in 2024/25.

Nottingham Forest need a result and they should have some joy against Spurs on the counter-attack.

⚽ Go for both teams to score and over 2.5 goals at 8/11 with Paddy Power ⚽

Nottingham Forest to score first

Nottingham Forest started both of those defeats by Aston Villa and Everton badly. Generally, though, they have been quick out of the blocks this season.

Forest have scored the first goal 23 times this term. No other team in the division can match that record.

Tottenham have often hit the ground trudging. In their 16 home games this season, the north Londoners have conceded the opening goal nine times.

Tottenham will dominate possession in the early exchanges, with Forest focused on packing men behind the ball.

But with their speed in transition, Nuno’s team can land the first blow on Monday.

⚽ Back Nottingham Forest to score first at 10/11 with SBK ⚽

Anthony Elanga to score any time

Because of the danger Nottingham Forest pose on the counter-attack, Anthony Elanga is the sensible pick in this market.

Like many of his team-mates, the former Manchester United man is enjoying a fantastic season.

Elanga has had a direct hand in 14 goals, scoring six and setting up eight. Elanga has really come of age in this campaign.

Tottenham have struggled to keep opposition attacks quiet throughout 2024/25. There will be plenty of space for Forest to break into and that makes Elanga a real threat.

⚽ Choose Anthony Elanga to score any time at 13/4 with BetMGM ⚽

📺 How to watch Tottenham Hotspur vs Nottingham Forest

Location: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, England.

Date and time: Monday 21st April, 8pm.

How to watch: Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League.

Read more about the 2024/25 football season

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Premier League top scorer odds

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Championship promotion odds

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Heung-min Son may be a Tottenham Hotspur legend - but he could be one of four key stars that are ruthlessly offloaded this summer.

That's the view of ex-Watford striker Troy Deeney, who believes Spurs are in dire need of experienced leaders to install a winning mentality in the club.

The north Londoners are enduring a shocking season so far, with Wolves condemning them to their 17th Premier League defeat last weekend.

Ange Postecoglou's side are now just two losses shy of equalling their all-time Premier League record of 19 - which they set during the 1993/94 and 2003/04 terms.

And there is a danger that Postecoglou could guide Tottenham to their lowest points total and lowest Premier League finish.

Languishing in 15th spot with six games remaining - and 11 points off a Europa Conference League place - Spurs' only hope of plying their trade across the continent next season lies in winning the Europa League.

Failure to do so will see Tottenham's trophy drought stretch to an 18th year, which could see a large majority of Spurs fans get their wish in Postecoglou being axed.

Spurs face Eintracht Frankfurt in their quarter-final second leg tie in Germany on Thursday night with the scores level at 1-1.

With Postecoglou facing an uncertain future, supporters could be primed for yet another style of play - with players having to get to get to grips with another change in system.

In the last decade, fans have seen nearly all types of football - from controlled, attacking possession under Mauricio Pochettino to defensively-minded under Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho and then on to all-out attack under Postecoglou, which has seem them ship in goals for fun.

Speaking to talkSPORT.com ahead of the crunch clash with Frankfurt, Deeney praised Postecoglou for putting his trust in the youth, before stating that a number of his key players could follow him out the door.

He said: "For me, he's done a good job blooding the younger players and giving them the confidence to go and score a lot.

"Brennan Johnson, what is he on, about 16 goals now?

"I think they're in a transition period, I think you could see the likes of Son [Heung-min] move on.

"Potentially [James] Maddison, [Yves] Bissouma, Richarlison, these guys will start moving on.

"And then obviously they have a lot of young players like Mikey Moore, but I still think they're a little bit like Chelsea.

"They need one, maybe two, older pros just to be like, 'We don't do that here, this is how you win things.'

"And that's the bit I think that they're missing."

Deeney was also questioned whether he believes Spurs could be without a manager on Friday should they fail to prevail against Frankfurt.

It led to the former Birmingham forward to once again stress that Spurs lack leaders, as he remarked: "Every time they lose, it's like, 'Is he going to be sacked?'

"I'll say this again. What are Spurs? They'be been trying to win a trophy for ever.

"I don't know what the plan is, they've got loads of young talent, no real proper leaders as what I would describe as a leader.

"I look at Ryan Yates at [Nottingham] Forest [vice-captain], while Morgan Gibbs-White is the [stand-in] captain, Ryan Yates is the heartbeat of that team.

"And when he plays, he's got the emotional connection with the fanbase, the players respond, he knows he's not the best player, but he's probably the most important to how they play.

"If you look at Spurs, who is that?"

When suggested that teenager midfielder Lucas Bergvall, who was guilty of a major error that led to Matheus Cunha's strike at Molineux, has stepped up in his first season in England, Deeney insisted the jury is still out on the 19-year-old.

He remarked: "I ain't sure on him yet personally, I'm not sure.

"I think he's a good kid with a load of talent, [but] he runs aimlessly everywhere.

"And to fans, you'd be like, 'Oh my God, look at him, he's running everywhere.'

"But to players, it's like, 'F****** stay in your position, you keep getting picked off because you're running everywhere.'

"So I'm not sure on him, he's only 19 though, so there's obviously loads [of room] to grow.

"But who are the senior leaders that have been there, that have won things and are coaching them [teammates]?

"Coaching them on day-to-day habits on how to be winners... I don't see that.

"So if they're going to sack Ange - which they might do, they might choose to - I don't care either way, then who's the next one?

"Because you look through the history of their managers, loads of them!"

It remains to be seen what Spurs chairman Daniel Levy decides to do should the club fail to make it into the last-four of Europe's secondary competition.

However talkSPORT understands that Spurs have already drafted up a list of replacements should they wield the axe on their Australian manager.

That includes Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva and Thomas Frank.

But whoever is in charge of Tottenham next season may have to listen to Deeney's advice in making a change to their recruitment strategy to stand any chance of success.

Ange Postecoglou could meet the same fate as Martin Jol on Thursday night.

The Tottenham boss is at risk of losing his job if his side are knocked out of the Europa League by Eintracht Frankfurt.

Postecoglou could be sacked immediately after the match in a repeat of Jol's Spurs exit.

The Dutchman was dismissed following a 2-1 defeat to Getafe back in October 2007, with Juande Ramos replacing him just two days later.

However, reports at the time and player accounts of the match claim Jol was let go at half-time.

Jermaine Jenas had been signed for Spurs by Jol but was not involved against Getafe.

He recalled in 2015: "I remember speaking to him before the game because I was carrying an injury and his face was just blank, as if he was looking right through me. In the weeks leading up to that, you could tell something had changed within him.

"It was leaked in the papers that Spurs were speaking to Juande Ramos. We'd seen it, he had obviously seen it, so it was impossible to ignore. As players, we were trying to concentrate on doing our jobs - and we all liked Martin - but there's no doubt it was distracting."

Meanwhile, Darren Bent told talkSPORT in 2023: "Yeah at half-time, during the game when I was at Tottenham. I can't remember what game it was. Martin Jol got sacked during the game.

"He was standing on the touchline, he's got a face on him. We come in at half-time, there is all this commotion so I said to Ledley [King], 'Oi, Ledders, what is happening?'

"He said to me, 'Ah the gaffer has been sacked'. Do you know what is mad, now I think about it? His team talk before the match was really subdued. He just said, 'Get out and play lads'."

However, Jol has denied the suggestion he was sacked during the match and instead found out from his nephew at full-time.

Speaking days after his departure, he explained: "The first I knew was when I saw my nephew in the tunnel immediately after the game and he pulled me to one side and told me what everyone else seemed to know already.

"So it is rubbish to say that I heard it before the game."

Reports that Jol would be leaving had filtered through to supporters during the match, with fans chanting his name throughout.

The atmosphere at White Hart Lane left a lasting impression on their outgoing manager.

Jol added: "I went into the dressing room to tell the players and say farewell to them - and they all stood up and applauded me.

"It was a strange night because it was my final game in charge but it was also a special night. I had a great connection with the Tottenham fans and that will always be there.

"The fans were unbelievable the way they were chanting my name throughout the game, and I am a little embarrassed because they knew before me that I was gone."

Despite the nature of his exit, Jol later said he had no 'hard feelings' or 'unfinished business' despite feeling 'bruised' by the experience.

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy also admitted his regrets over how the decision was handled.

In an open letter to fans at the time, Levy said: "Several events clearly did not happen as we all would have wished and I am the first to admit that things could have been handled differently and better."

Jol had guided Spurs to a pair of fifth-place finishes in each of his full seasons in charge in north London.

His achievements at the club were recognised by then Getafe boss Michael Laudrup following the result.

He backed Jol, stating: "Given what he did last season I don't think he will have a problem finding a new job."

Following his Spurs exit, he joined German side Hamburg at the end of the campaign.

Jol later had spells in charge of Ajax, Fulham and Egyptian giants Al Ahly but has been away from the dugout since 2016.

Postecoglou will be hoping he can avoid being let go this week with two years still remaining on his Spurs deal.

The Europa League remains his side's only route into Europe next season and their last hope of a trophy this term.

Following 21 defeats across all competitions, Spurs are also 15th in the Premier League with six matches remaining.

Sunday's loss to Wolves leaves them just two points above 17th-placed West Ham.

The tie against Frankfurt is level at 1-1 following the first leg, with the winner facing either Bodo/Glimt or Lazio in the semi-finals.

Career highlight

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will always remember this game as a career highlight after his side knocked out Real Madrid.

"One of the best nights in my football career," he said.

"We played against a team with the biggest history. It has been an inspiration for all of us on this competition.

"To be able to win the tie in the manner we have done - I think we have to be very proud of ourselves.

"It is very difficult. After two-to-three minutes you realise anything can happen in this stadium.

"Fortunately, a lot of things went for us. Overall, we did what we had to do to win the game."

Arteta continued: "The history we have in this competition is so short. The third time in our history of what we have just done and we have to build on that.

"All this experience is going to help us, for sure. We had full belief that we could beat this team and the players did it."

Statement win

Bukayo Saka believes Arsenal can win the Champions League after their 'big statement' at the Bernabeau tonight.

Saka told TNT Sports: "We showed that we can play in Europe and beat one of the best teams in the world, home and away.

"[I'm] very proud of this team. Tonight was a big statement and I am so happy for everyone.

"We felt comfortable. We are quite good when we get into a low block. It took a lot of running but we managed to do it."

On his first-half penalty miss, he added: "It can happen. I tried something, but it didn't work.

"I learn in every moment. Tonight, I am more focused on enjoying the win and then I will review it properly."

Saka was then asked whether he thinks Arsenal can win the Champions League: "Yes. I like to believe that."

'We want to win this competition'

Arsenal's Declan Rice has reacted to huge win for the Gunners after picking up Man of the Match yet again.

He told TNT Sports: "It is such a special night for this club, a historic night for this club.

"We had an objective in this competition - we want to win this competition.

"We had so much belief and confidence that we had enough to come here and win the game. We had it in our mind and we have done it in real life. What a night for the club."

Rice added: "It is massive. I sensed it before I turned up to the club that we were on an upward trajectory.

"In this competition, we have done amazingly well. We fully believe it and we have full trust in the manager - he is unbelievable.

"Semi-final, it is massive for us and we want to take tonight in."

Name-dropping

Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo...the list of Real Madrid's attacking stars could go on and on.

However, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois believes a former Stoke striker would have made the difference this evening.

Real made 42 crosses this evening and only connected with seven, which is clearly a very, very poor success rate.

And Courtois mentioned the need for big man in the box if you're sending in crosses, bringing up an ex-teammate of his.

He said post-match: “We crossed a lot, but we didn’t have a player like Joselu."

The Belgian also seemed to take aim at some of his teammates, adding: "We need to start playing as a team, not as individuals.

"We need to start being honest with ourselves."

Courtois would then go on to name-drop Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior as his brutal assessment continued.

He said: "We are a team, but sometimes I feel like we play too individually, when they double-team Vini or Kylian, sometimes it works out, but 3, 4 times, it doesn't.

"If we want to win, we need to be better."

Arsenal are through!

It's a first Champions League semi-final since 2009 for Arsenal as they comfortably beat Real Madrid!

The Gunners went into tonight with a 3-0 lead and they managed to keep Real at bay before stealing a historic win.

They have become the first English team ever to win twice at the Bernabeu in the competition.

Bukayo Saka's goal seemed to put the tie even more out of reach for Real, but Vinicius Junior reignited some hope.

But as time ticked on, the possibility of a comeback dwindled away and Mikel Arteta's side defended their lead.

Gabriel Martinelli then completely wrapped things up.

Arsenal will now face PSG in the semi-finals.

Brick wall

Real Madrid have failed to register a single shot on target in the first half of a Champions League home match for the first time since March last year.

They've had six shots in total but David Raya has not been called into action for any of them.

Arsenal are defending superbly and they've forced Real into having shots from distance, with only one coming in the box.

The hosts need at least three goals and there's now only 45 minutes to find them at the Bernabeu.

Stuart Pearce live on talkSPORT: "Saliba has been brilliant with balls in the box and he's marshalled things very well."

Time-wasting

David Raya has been booked after 36 minutes.

He's already taking a very long time to take his goal kicks and the referee has had enough.

The Arsenal goalkeeper will have to be careful if he wants to waste time later on in the game now.

Real Madrid haven't had a chance since their penalty was overturned and the atmosphere has been impacted.

They need something to get the excitement going again.

It's been a busy first half for this man...

And breathe...

We're just over half an hour in and this has been crazy.

Bukayo Saka has missed a penalty and Real Madrid have just had one overturned after a long VAR check.

Arsenal are still 3-0 up on aggregate and this suits them down to the ground, especially if they can get to halftime.

The game has calmed slightly after all the drama, but there's sure to be more just around the corner.

OVERTURNED!

VAR OVERTURN THE DECISION!

The referee goes to the screen and changes his mind after being shown a variety of replays.

Arsenal survive and it's not a penalty!

Declan Rice's yellow card is also rescinded.

A UEFA statement reads: “The penalty for Real Madrid has been taken away due to a non-foul by Declan Rice”.

Stuart Pearce live on talkSPORT: "You knew there was going to be excitement in this game and wow.

"Arsenal have had two pieces of good fortune."

GOAL!! Aston Villa 0-2 Paris Saint-Germain (Nuno Mendes)

From one fullback to the other, that is that for Villa!

It's almost a carbon copy of the first, as the home side are caught high up the pitch on the counter once again.

This time, PSG come down the right-hand side and within three passes, the ball is pulled back to Mendes, unmarked in the box.

The defender then shows a striker's instincts as he opens up his body and guides a shot past Emi Martinez and in off the far post.

GOAL!! Aston Villa 0-1 Paris Saint-Germain (Achraf Hakimi)

THAT COULD BE CURTAINS FOR VILLA ALREADY!

From one blunder before kick-off to one on the pitch has gifted Hakimi the opener to all-but knock Villa out of the competition.

Despite making a bright start, the visitors break down the left-hand side before a low cross is drilled into the box.

Emi Martinez makes a complete hash of dealing with it and palms it straight to Hakimi, who makes no mistake with his first-time finish.

Moroccan Hakimi has had a hand in more UEFA Champions League goals than any other defender this season (7 - 2 goals, 5 assists).

Belle of the ball

Jude Bellingham believes tomorrow's Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal is 'a night made for Real Madrid'.

The reigning European champions return to the Bernabeu on Wednesday evening aiming to overturn a 3-0 deficit.

"I've heard it a million times since last week, I've seen a million videos - it's really motivating stuff," England international Bellingham told a pre-match press conference on Tuesday.

"It's a night that's made for Real Madrid.

"A night that would go down in history but also something that people are familiar with around this part of this world.

"Hopefully, we can add another special night."

Champions League team news

Aston Villa face a do-or-die showdown at home to Paris Saint-Germain this evening, with just one change from Unai Emery.

Amadou Onana replaces Jacob Ramsey, with Marcus Rashford retaining his place in attack despite Ollie Watkins scoring on Saturday.

For PSG, skipper Marquinhos returns from suspension, while Bradley Barcola starts to confine Desire Doue to the bench.

Aston Villa XI: Martínez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne, Kamara, Tielemans, Onana, Rogers, McGinn, Rashford

Subs: Olsen, Proctor, Disasi, Mings, Maatsen, Bogarde, Barkley, Bailey, Asensio, Watkins, Ramsey.

PSG XI: Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Nuno Mendes; João Neves, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz; Barcola, Dembele, Kvaratskhelia

Subs: Beraldo, Doue, Hernandez, Kimpembe, Lee Kang-In, Mayulu, Mbaye, Ramos, Safonov, Tenas, Zaire-Emery.

Elsewhere, Niko Kovac makes four changes to his Borussia Dortmund side that claimed a 2-2 draw in Der Klassiker at the weekend.

Emre Can drops out of the squad with a groin injury, while the trio of Giovanni Reyna, Julian Brandt and Salih Ozcan are all benched.

Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has made four alterations to the starting XI he sent out for the club's 1-0 win over Leganes last time out.

Pau Cubarsi, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong and Gerard Martin replace Inigo Martinez, Eric Garcia, Pedri and Alejandro Balde.

Borussia Dortmund XI: Kobel; Couto, Anton, Sule, Bensebaini; Nmecha, Svensson, Gross; Adeyemi, Guirassy, Beier.

Subs: Meyer, Lotka, Ozcan, Reyna, Brandt, Duranville, Ryerson, Watjen, Mane, Kabar, Gittens.

Barcelona XI: Szczesny; Kounde, Cubarsi, Aruajo, Martin; Gavi, De Jong, Lopez; Raphinha, Lewandowski, Yamal.

Subs: Pena, Kochen, Martinez, Torres, Pedri, Fati, Torre, Christensen, Victor, Olmo, Garcia, Fort.

Knee Zirk Reaction

Joshua Zirkzee's season could be over, with BBC Sport reporting there is some doubt over whether the forward can feature again.

Manchester United were dealt a crushing blow when Zirkzee limped off in the second half of Sunday's 4-1 defeat at Newcastle.

Red Devils coach Ruben Amorim had his head in his hands as the 23-year-old clutched his hamstring and hit the deck.

The Netherlands international has since been undergoing tests to determine the extent of the injury.

He was almost certainly set to be ruled out of Man United's huge Europa League showdown with Lyon on Thursday.

However, now, there are fears that the severity of his hamstring issue could rule him out for the remaining weeks of the season.

Man United have six Premier League games left, in addition to four potential Europa League ties, should the club reach the final in May.

Zirkzee has netted three Premier League goals since arriving at Old Trafford from Bologna for £36.5million last summer.

Eating out of the Palm of his hands

Cole Palmer's one-word social media post has left Chelsea fans pointing the finger at Enzo Maresca.

After a blistering start to the season, the Blues' talisman has struggled for form in recent months, with his 14-game goal drought continuing in his side's 2-2 draw against Ipswich on Sunday.

Palmer's faltering performances have coincided with Chelsea's woes of late, who now face an uphill battle to claim one of the five Champions League qualification spots up for grabs.

The draw with Ipswich saw Enzo Maresca's side drop to sixth in the Premier League table, level on points with Aston Villa in seventh.

Having stayed radio silent in the immediate aftermath of the weekend's game, the playmaker then reposted an 'on this day' video shared by the club's official account.

With the clip marking a year since Chelsea's 6-0 win over Everton, which saw Palmer score four goals, he reshared footage of his first strike from the night, a stunning solo effort.

Captioning the post, the England star simply wrote: "Enjoyment," alongside a beaming face emoji.

'He still has a future'

Troy Deeney believes that Martin Odegaard is still a key player for Arsenal, but admits that Ethan Nwaneri will replace him in the long run.

Speaking totalkSPORT.com about whether Arsenal has outgrown Odegaard, Deeney said: "Not yet I wouldn't say, I do think there's a succession plan where Ethan Nwaneri goes in that No.10 as a more a long-term solution.

"I think Martin Odegaard does a lot for the team that a lot of people don't see.

"Just the position and the cuteness of his play, I think he's excellent, but looking back at that game [Madrid], there was nobody that played less than a 9/10. They were all excellent."

Deeney added: "I think he sets the press, he runs a lot, he's the one that runs and everybody follows, he's definitely added to Declan Rice as well.

"I think you've seen now, Declan Rice looks like he can run all over everybody, I think he gets that from Odegaaard.

"Does he take too many touches? He went through a spell of missing chances in November/December time, he didn't score.

"I just think, has he got to that place now where he is looking to slip somebody else in, and maybe understanding that maybe shooting is not his forte I suppose. But I still think he has a future."

'No timeframe' on Eddie Howe return - Tindall

Newcastle are placing no timeframe on Eddie Howe's return to work as he battles his way back from pneumonia.

The 47-year-old Magpies head coach was taken to hospital on Friday evening after feeling unwell for several days and now faces a spell away from the club following his diagnosis.

Number two Jason Tindall and coach Graeme Jones will take charge of the team in his absence as they attempt to steer the Carabao Cup winners into the Champions League for the second time in three seasons and Tindall has revealed his long-term ally will not be rushed back.

He said: "There is no exact timeframe. That is something we will assess day by day. The only question I can answer is that he is in the best possible hands and everything will be guided by them on a day-to-day basis.

"He will only come back when he is ready to come back and it will be on the guidance of the people taking care of him."

Worth his weight in Silva

Fulham are braced for a battle to keep manager Marco Silva beyond the end of the season.

Silva’s stock is high after leading the Cottagers to the FA Cup quarter-finals and into contention for a European place.

With Bournemouth hopeful of persuading Andoni Iraola to commit his future to the Cherries, Silva is emerging as a front-runner to replace Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham.

Postecoglou faces the sack even if Spurs win the Europa League after leading the north Londoners to SEVENTEEN Premier League defeats this season.

As previously reported by talkSPORT, ex-Everton and Watford boss Silva, who has also been touted for a possible switch to Juventus, has a release clause of around £8m in his contract.

Fulham would ideally like to tie Silva down to a new long-term deal, but he is not in any rush to put pen to paper.

It's Gunner happen!

Arsenal are confident their move for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi will be completed by early June, talkSPORT understands.

Gunners fans were concerned by reports in Spain that Real Madrid would attempt to hijack their move for Zubimendi.

However, sources close to the Emirates Stadium have told talkSPORT negotiations are progressing well to make the Spain international their first signing of a busy summer.

Zubimendi has a £52m release clause in his contract that Arsenal have told Sociedad they are willing to activate.

The 26-year-old Basque native previously looked set to move to the Premier League last summer.

A deal with Liverpool was agreed, but Zubimendi ended up staying put in Spain after a last-minute change of heart - but now he looks set to finally make the switch to the English top flight.

Cherry picked

Bournemouth are resigned to losing defender Dean Huijsen this summer, talkSPORT understands.

Huijsen has a £50million release clause in his contract and has held talks with a host of clubs including Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham.

The 20-year-old is also on the radar of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich but talkSPORT understands he is more likely to remain in the Premier League.

Liverpool are looking to sign a new centre-back even with captain Virgil van Dijk agreeing a new contract.

Huijsen’s arrival would facilitate the possibility of England international Jarell Quansah, wanted by Newcastle, departing.

Spain international Huijsen, who cost Bournemouth a bargain £16m, also fits the profile of Chelsea’s recruitment policy.

Meanwhile, Spurs are likely to lose Cristian Romero to Atletico Madrid in the forthcoming transfer window.

Rooney set for EFL lifeline?

Wayne Rooney could be offered a surprise managerial lifeline by Blackburn, talkSPORT understands.

Blackburn only appointed Valerien Ismael in February after John Eustace quit to join Derby, but the Frenchman is already under pressure after winning just one of his eight games in

charge.

TalkSPORT has been told Cheshire resident Rooney would be a contender to step into the hot-seat at Ewood Park.

Rooney has been out of work since being sacked by Plymouth in December after winning just five of his 25 games in charge.

The England and Manchester United legend turned TV pundit still harbours ambitions to be a success in the dugout after spells at Derby, Birmingham and DC United.

Double boost for Arsenal

Mikel Arteta has been handed a welcome boost with Thomas Partey and Ben White involved in training on Tuesday.

Arsenal travel to Spain for the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Real Madrid holding a 3-0 advantage.

White missed Arsenal’s home clash with Brentford after picking up a fresh injury in training.

Meanwhile Partey was forced off during the clash with the Bees, sparking concerns over his availability.

However both players now look likely to be involved.

There was no sign of Riccardo Calafiori though, following the knee injury picked up on international duty.

Man United's Antony decision pays off

Manchester United will not receive a loan fee from Real Betis for Antony as a result of his successful loan.

As part of the deal, the Red Devils insisted that Real Betis pay a small percentage of his salary and a penalty fee if the winger didn’t play at least 15 games.

This was to ensure that the Brazilian got regular game time so they could assess his progress in the summer.

Had Antony not met the threshold of 15 games, Real Betis would have had to pay a penalty clause of around £480k.

But after four goals and four assists in his 15 games so far, the deal has worked out in everyone's favour with reports in Spain stating that the club and player are keen to extend the deal beyond the summer.

A glimmer of hope?

Kevin Hatchard believes that Paris Saint-Germain’s lack of cutting edge in attack is Aston Villa’s only real hope of joy in their Champions League clash tonight.

Villa are 3-1 down ahead of the return leg, with Unai Emery’s side needing a comprehensive victory to advance to the semi-finals.

He told talkSPORT Breakfast: “The real weakness that they’ve had through the season has been a lack of clinical edge in attack.

“That sounds crazy when you think that Ousmane Dembele has better than a goal a game in 2025, they’ve got Barcola and Kvaratskhelia but earlier in the season but earlier in the season that was the issue.

“That’s what’s changed but even in the first leg they missed some opportunities.

“If Villa can get the first goal then that might just put a seed of doubt in there and get them looking at each other but they’re a very, very good side these days.”

Substitution error 'really strange' - Silva

Marco Silva has hit out at the officiating error that saw Ryan Sessegnon incorrectly take off in Fulham's clash with Bournemouth.

Fourth official Tim Robinson held up the number 30 for Sessegnon instead of 20 (Saka Lukic), before refusing to correct the error.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Silva said: "It was a complete lack of communication with the fourth official. He was probably more concerned with other things and not doing his job really.

“Our player saw the number 32 or 33 but we’ve seen many many times with the lack of communication and in three changes he didn’t give us the time to change again.

“For us, his attitude is really strange and his decision because next week it is going to be different.

“It’s really strange. The player was there but he didn’t let us do what we wanted to do and many times we see that lack of communication. It wasn’t a good night.”

Huijsen celebrates birthday win

Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen celebrated his 20th birthday by beating Fulham on Monday night.

The Spanish defender played the full 90 minutes as the Cherries won 1-0 at the Vitality Stadium.

After the final whistle, Huijsen told Sky Sports: "It's definitely going to be a memorable birthday!

"I think as a team we did so well today, not necessarily how we played but the fight we gave and the togetherness we had. It's great to get a win again and we are back in the running [for Europe].

"[We had] the will to win, we were really hungry to win. We all did a great job, we ran as much as we could. Credit to the team."

The win sees Bournemouth leapfrog Fulham into eighth place as they tussle for a spot in Europe next season.

Meanwhile, Huijsen continues his impressive campaign, adding: "I believe in my abilities and try my best for the team. The fans were great tonight, it gave us an extra push

"We play high press football, we are fearless in that sense, I am so happy we could win."