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If there is one country that epitomises football's shift in emphasis from defence to attack, it is surely Norway. Once a home to dogged defenders, stoic centre-halves and full-blooded full-backs, this is now the nation of Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard.

It is a testament to the technical development of the game. But it is only natural there are those in Norway wondering whether the balance is wrong. For all the attacking talent now being produced, they have been unable to replicate the success of the past.

Under Egil Olsen, affectionately known as Drillo in his homeland, their direct style helped them eliminate England in qualifying for the 1994 World Cup and then go on to reach the knockout stages at France '98. They have not been to the tournament since.

In conversation with Thomas Brantsaeter, Norway's head of player identification, he lays out the problem - and the efforts being made to solve it. "We are doing a lot of work at the federation on raising the focus on defending," Brantsaeter tells Sky Sports.

"We are more into just passing and the technical skills now, so we are developing different types of players these days, for sure. But defending was crucial to our success under Drillo and it seems maybe that we have forgotten the art of defending a little bit."

The game has undoubtedly changed. Over the course of the previous decade, the total number of passes per season in the Premier League increased by almost 50,000. Meanwhile, the total number of tackles per season decreased by almost 4,000.

Brantsaeter is blunt about the scale of the problem. "We get players coming into our national teams and they are blank when it comes to defending." These are Norway's best young players but he talks of almost having to start their education from scratch.

"We have a project now, going to the regions, doing presentations and practical sessions about defending - zonal defending, in particular. That is our tradition from the Drillo era. We think that with small adjustments it can still be the Norwegian way.

"In particular, we are focusing on defending inside the box. Arsenal have been tremendous at defending their box for quite a long time now. This is where games are decided and it can seem we are not training it at all or at least not enough."

The top teams still have the top defenders. Pep Guardiola's success was built on their defensive record, albeit rooted in the principle that possession was the best form of defence. It is Manchester City's vulnerability at the back that has undermined them.

Consider how Real Madrid stood firm against Guardiola's City both this season and last, a reminder that while world-class defenders tend to operate on the halfway line in the majority of matches, they are able to protect a box better than the rest if they have to.

As Brantsaeter suggests, Arsenal are emblems of that. They had the best defensive record in the Premier League last season and are on course to repeat the feat. Their rearguard away to City with 10 players in September showcased that desire to defend.

The Gunners were once famous for it under George Graham, of course. One-nil to the Arsenal. Alan Smith, the winner of the Golden Boot in both of their title wins under Graham, knows this success was built on the solid defence operating behind him.

"It will be different methods to George Graham, I would imagine, back in the day," Smith tells Sky Sports. "But I am sure that (Mikel) Arteta has worked really hard on that defensive team shape, put the time in with the back four and the goalkeeper.

"It is that kind of attention to detail from the management that is key and I think it has been one of his best achievements, if not the best. Of course, so much of it is about recruitment. But once you have those players, it becomes about coaching them.

"We have seen many other clubs bring in expensive defenders and they do not gel into a unit. So much of it is about positional sense, that positional work, making sure you know where your man is, know where your goal is and you have all got your bearings.

"But it is also that willingness to attack the ball and be aggressive with it. Not everybody does want to put their head on the ball. They might find ways of getting around that. But Arsenal have certainly got those type of players who want to put their head on the ball.

"Look at Sol Campbell and Kolo Toure, two out-and-out defenders who just loved that unspectacular side of the business. I think you have got to have that mentality as a defender, that you enjoy it. The club lost that resilience somewhere along the way."

They have rediscovered it now.

Gabriel is a defender in that mould, relishing that physical contest. William Saliba is different but still excels in one-against-one situations. "You want defenders to be good on the ball and Saliba is," says Smith. "But his priority is shutting out the opposition."

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There is something almost unnatural about great defending, even Smith admitting the odds can be loaded against them. "It has always been the case, defenders react and strikers anticipate. Sometimes, you have immediately got half a yard on that defender."

Partnerships are key, whether it is Campbell and Toure or even Tony Adams and Steve Bould long before that. "That understanding comes with playing together over an extended period," says Smith. Arsenal's record with Gabriel and Saliba bears that out.

It is similar at full-back. "The emphasis is on getting forward to overlap or inverting to join in. But managers will soon complain if a full-back does not stop the cross and it is curled into the box and somebody scores. A defender's job is to stymie the opposition."

The underlying statistics show that Arsenal do that better than anyone, particularly on transition. They have faced fewer shots on transition than any other team in the Premier League, although it owes as much to their dominance and structure as the individuals.

That is because Arsenal defenders find themselves in one-on-one situations far less frequently than those of other sides. Strength in numbers is not just for the weak. Arteta's side prevent those counter-attacks before they happen - by fair means or foul.

"City did it down the years, that tactical foul, which you can learn to do without getting a booking sometimes. There is an art to it, stopping the counter-attack, ticking down the clock a little bit. It winds up the opposition and their fans but it is all part of the game."

Arsenal will come up short in the Premier League this season, Liverpool outscoring them so heavily. But there is still that chance of glory in the Champions League. "If you are hard to beat," says Smith, speaking from experience, "one goal might be enough."

It is a point well worth remembering. Over in Norway, it is now uppermost in their thoughts. "We still believe defending is important and we are working hard to educate both attack and defence," concludes Brantsaeter. "It is not a case of either or."

Liverpool may be closing in on the Premier League, but that accomplishment should not disguise the size of the rebuilding job facing head coach Arne Slot at Anfield this summer.

Slot has just endured his hardest week in the job since replacing Jurgen Klopp, following back-to-back defeats to Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle United that ended the club's Champions League and Carabao Cup hopes respectively.

It is the first time the Dutchman has suffered consecutive losses during his debut campaign in charge of the Reds, but, as is so often the case, he will have learned so much more about his team - in particular their weaknesses - in those two reverses than from any of their numerous victories this season, as he and sporting director Richard Hughes prepare for a busy summer.

Liverpool drop-off holds lessons for Slot

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Similar to when Liverpool last won the league five years ago, rather than heralding a new era of dominance on Merseyside, this season's expected title triumph could actually represent the end of an era for the side Jurgen Klopp built as Slot looks at changes for next season.....

The 'elephants' in the room

The not so hidden 'elephants' in Liverpool's room remain Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold and it bears repeating that, as things stand, that trio will all leave Anfield for free when their contracts expire at the end of June.

So, what happens with their futures will have a knock-on effect recruitment-wise this summer, meaning Slot and Hughes may be on the lookout for a new right-sided forward, centre-back and right-back.

Not only that, but the club have also been in discussions with Ibrahima Konate about extending his deal that only runs until 2026, but still with no breakthrough, while reports continue to link Luis Diaz, who has two years left on his contract, with a move away this summer.

And all this before we even begin to talk about any possible new arrivals to strengthen the team for next season.

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Stop Salah, stop Liverpool?

Liverpool need to bolster their options up front this summer, according to Jamie Carragher, who wants his former club to bring in two forwards to take some of the burden off Salah's shoulders should he opt to remain at Anfield.

"The lack of pace in the team is glaring in the attack," he told Sky Sports. "I feel a bit sorry for Salah. He's taken a bit of stick in the last games against PSG, but he doesn't get help off the other attackers.

"The other attackers Liverpool have got are good players, not great players. Liverpool need to buy two attackers. Not squad players, but players to hopefully play alongside Salah."

The numbers back Carragher up, with Diaz [1], Diogo Jota [1], Darwin Nunez [3] and Federico Chiesa [0] having scored a paltry five top-flight goals between them in 2025, meaning Salah has been responsible for a league-high 63.8 per cent of all Liverpool's goal involvements this season, an unhealthy over reliance that is surely not sustainable going forward.

There are reports Liverpool are considering offloading the injury-prone Jota and Nunez, who the club rejected a big-money offer for from the Saudi Pro League in January, while Diaz and Chiesa could also be on the move this summer, despite the latter having only signed from Juventus at the start of the season.

Were the Premier League's top scorer to also leave, then that would leave a sizeable rebuilding job in attack for Hughes to undertake, with the Reds reportedly doing due diligence on Newcastle's Alexander Isak, Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo and Brighton's Joao Pedro.

Ageing squad needs a refresh

The physical - and also mental - toll on Liverpool's players has been evident in their two losses of late, in part due to Slot's reliance on a key core of trusted lieutenants all season, with only Man Utd's Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes having played more Premier League minutes than Van Dijk and Salah so far.

Meanwhile, Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai have also been racking up the minutes in the Reds' midfield engine room, with all three looking leggy and off the pace as a result in recent weeks.

All managers rely on experienced stars, of course, especially having just taken over at a club, but there are clear danger signs for Slot, with Liverpool having the fourth-oldest average starting XI age [27.65] and their average of 1.76 line-up changes per game is the seventh-lowest this season.

While it is important to remember Slot made just one signing last summer, this reluctance to rotate is also indicative of the Dutchman's lack of trust in back-up players Wataru Endo and Harvey Elliott to cover in midfield, with Carragher calling on owners the Fenway Sports Group [FSG] to also bring in a holding midfielder to allow more rest for Gravenberch next season.

"I don't think he [Slot] has any time for four or five players in that squad, and the fact that he didn't change players at home to Southampton between the PSG games - against one of the worst teams ever in the Premier League - I can accept that this season as this isn't really his squad, but next season I'm sure he'll bring players in," the former Liverpool captain said on The Overlap Fan Debate. "He needs a centre midfielder to replace Endo, someone younger."

Liverpool tried, of course, to sign Real Sociedad defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi last summer, only for the Spain international to have a late change of heart over moving to Anfield.

However, with Arsenal now closing in on the player's signature, according to Sky Sports News, Slot and Hughes will have to look elsewhere for alternative targets as the Dutchman tries to mould the squad more in his image this summer.

How do you replace record-breaking full-back?

While there is still no news on Alexander-Arnold's future at the club, the silence from both parties is ominous, and with Real Madrid having already made their intentions clear after a bid was rejected for the right-back in January, many expect this to be his last season at his boyhood club.

That would leave a huge void to fill not just on the right-hand side of Liverpool's defence, but also in attack given Alexander-Arnold's unrivalled passing ability that has produced 64 assists since 2016, a Premier League record for a defender.

Conor Bradley has always proved an able deputy for Alexander-Arnold and would be an option for the role, but the England international's absence in Sunday's League Cup final once again showed how hard it will be for anyone to replace the defender were he to join Madrid.

And there could even be a scenario this summer where Hughes is having to recruit both a right and left-back following reports Liverpool are also monitoring left-sided full-backs to provide competition for Andy Robertson, including Bournemouth's Milos Kerkez and Ajax's Jorrel Hato.

Jeepers 'keepers

Another player who recently reminded everyone of his status as one of the best in the world was Alisson after his Champions League heroics to thwart PSG at the Parc des Princes.

Alisson is still only 32, so normally would have at least another five years as the club's No 1 and yet the Reds brought in Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia last summer - before loaning him back to the LaLiga side - with a view to challenging for a first-team spot next season.

And were Saudi clubs to reignite their interest in Alisson at the end of the season after he turned down a big-money approach last summer, it will be interesting to see if Michael Edwards, CEO of Football at FSG, cashes in on both the Brazil international and Caoimhin Kelleher in order to help fund a squad rebuild.

A new leader at the back

Van Dijk was again coy when quizzed about his Reds future in the aftermath of Sunday's League Cup loss to Newcastle, but Slot will be absolutely desperate for his compatriot to extend his stay at Anfield beyond this season.

The Liverpool captain is irreplaceable in terms of his on-field contributions, as well as his influence in the dressing room, but replace him they may have to.

Even were Van Dijk to stay, however, Carragher still believes his former club "needs a centre-back as back-up to the two [Van Dijk and Konate] that we have," with Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi and Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen reportedly on Liverpool's summer radar.

All of which points to one of the biggest squad overhauls in recent Reds history, with Carragher calling for the arrival of "at least five or six players - three to go straight in the team and three to be strong back-ups - with still so many areas of the team to improve".

Liverpool free agents top Europe at £137m

Sky Sports' data journalist Adam Smith:

"Liverpool could lose £137m from players leaving the club as free agents this summer - more than any other club in Europe's top five leagues, according to Transfermarkt data.

"Reds trio Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk all have deals set to expire at the end of this season.

"Their combined value is more than double the value of upcoming free agents at any other club in Europe's top five leagues, with Ligue 1 side Lille [£64.6m] next on the list.

"Alexander-Arnold commands the highest estimated value among this summer's potential free agents with a price tag of £63m, while Salah [£46.2m] ranks second and Van Dijk [£23.5m] ranks sixth."

Williams thrilled with form for club and country

Nottingham Forest full-back Neco Williams is heading into Wales' World Cup qualifying double-header full of confidence.

Williams has joined up with the Wales for their qualification double-header against Kazakhstan and North Macedonia.

Forest are third in the Premier League, while Wales are on a six-match unbeaten run under Craig Bellamy.

"Club football is going really good at the minute," Williams said.

"We're third in the league, so we're obviously doing something right.

"And then going on to international level, I think we haven't obviously lost a game since the new manager's come in.

"It's been a great campaign so far, and at the minute now we're just looking to take that into the World Cup qualifiers."

Williams thrilled with form for club and country

Nottingham Forest full-back Neco Williams is heading into Wales' World Cup qualifying double-header full of confidence.

Williams has joined up with the Wales for their qualification double-header against Kazakhstan and North Macedonia.

Forest are third in the Premier League, while Wales are on a six-match unbeaten run under Craig Bellamy.

"Club football is going really good at the minute," Williams said.

"We're third in the league, so we're obviously doing something right.

"And then going on to international level, I think we haven't obviously lost a game since the new manager's come in.

"It's been a great campaign so far, and at the minute now we're just looking to take that into the World Cup qualifiers."

Nuno: No need to change approach in bid for CL

Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo says it does not make sense to change his approach as his side close in on Champions League qualification.

Forest took a huge step towards finishing in the top four of the Premier League with a 1-0 win over Manchester City last week, and face relegation-threatened Ipswich on Saturday.

“The message is that we don’t have to change anything,” he said.

“We have to approach the games the same way we have been doing all season.

“Everything is going to be decided now so all the teams are going to be ready to go and we have to be ready to compete against Ipswich.

“We have been going game by game, day by day. This is what we believe is the best way to approach every game until the end.”

Forest were recently taken to penalties in the FA Cup by Ipswich, with Nuno adding: “First, the big challenge is Ipswich. That is the main challenge we have ahead of us.

“They are a tough team. We know how hard it was against them in the FA Cup, because we only achieved it by penalties.

“They have quality players and they play good football. They are intense and we expect a very tough match at their home.”

Nuno: We have a lot of options for England squad

Nuno Espirito Santo says England manager Thomas Tuchel does not need to look much further than his Nottingham Forest squad for possible options.

Tuchel will name a 26-man squad on Friday for his first games since taking over from Gareth Southgate.

Morgan Gibbs-White, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Elliot Anderson have all been key players in Forest’s incredible season which sees them among the favourites to earn Champions League qualification while Ryan Yates is having an impressive campaign.

The German has been spotted watching several Forest games since he started in January, while his assistant Anthony Barry was at the City Ground to watch the 1-0 win over Manchester City which saw Gibbs-White set up Hudson-Odoi.

Gibbs-White is a strong contender to be in the squad considering he was part of the set-up before Christmas but call-ups for Hudson-Odoi and Anderson could be less likely.

“I think we have a lot of English players that are options for the English squad, Elliot is among those,” Nuno added.

“I still believe he has the ability to be versatile and play in different positions.

“It has been proven with his age, it only can make him better for the future, being able to play more than one position on the pitch.

“It is a thing a squad needs in its players and Elliot can do that.”

Forest team news: No major injury concerns

Nottingham Forest will only be without Carlos Miguel against Ipswich.

The backup goalkeeper has a muscle injury that he sustained in February.

Nuno Espirito Santo has a full squad of outfield players to choose from.

"It’s very good," he said. "It gives us options and solutions. Having everyone available is nice to see no one in the doctors."

Nuno: Hudson-Odoi has improved a lot

Nuno Espirito Santo says Nottingham Forest winger Callum Hudson-Odoi has been improving this season.

Hudson-Odoiscored Forest's goal in their 1-0 win over Manchester City last weekend.

Nuno said: “A lot of aspects in this game have been improving. He is versatile to both wings, he has been adaptable and really performing well.

“His defensive tasks are always there. I believe there are a lot of things he can do better in terms of assists and goals, they are always things you want to improve.”

Merse: Why Chelsea game could be key to Forest's CL hopes

Paul Merson is predicting a "10-game shootout" for the Premier League's Champions League places and says Nottingham Forest's final-day meeting with Chelsea could be decisive.

The Premier League is guaranteed four Champions League spots but currently tops the co-efficient table. The top two countries in the co-efficient race get an extra spot, which would mean fifth goes into the Champions League too.

Merson had his say on the race for qualification, with only five points separating fifth-placed Man City and 10th-placed Fulham, and also made his prediction for who will make the top four.

"Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea could be a shoot-out on the last day of the season," Merson told Sky Sports. "Who'd have thought when the fixtures came out? That could be the biggest game of the final day.

"You'd be shocked if Manchester City didn't get in. I'll go Liverpool, Arsenal, Forest and City.

"You're fighting for fifth. Chelsea have a chance if they can beat Arsenal this weekend. You can't afford a draw and a loss on the bounce now, that's goodnight. There are so many teams chasing and all of them can win two on the trot.

"Brighton are in it, they are rolling, they have momentum. But this weekend against Manchester City is big. It's a 10-game shoot-out for all these teams and the table can change like the wind."

City Ground renovations update

Work could begin on Nottingham Forest's City Ground stadium redevelopment next season.

Nuno Espirito Santo's side are currently third in the Premier League and could be playing in the Champions League next season.

The proposals would see the Peter Taylor Stand replaced with a 10,000-capacity stand, with a club statement adding: “We will consult with season-card holders who have seats in the Peter Taylor Stand regarding their relocation, if and when appropriate.”

The City Ground has a current capacity of just over 30,400.

Dominguez's key role for Forest

Sky Sports' Adam Bate:

"Impressed by Nico Dominguez's defensive work against Manchester City. He made eight tackles but that was the tip of the iceberg - pressuring the opposition on 82 separate occasions as he helped support the defenders in dealing with City's wingers.

"Wrote about that as part of The Debrief column this week."

Mikel Merino's limitations as a striker costing Arsenal, Cole Palmer's form and Nico Dominguez's unseen Forest work

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Independent Board dismisses Forest appeal following misconduct comments

An independent Appeal Board has dismissed an appeal by Nottingham Forest in relation to misconduct for comments posted on social media after the Premier League game involving Everton on April 21 last year.

Forest felt they should have been awarded three penalties during the defeat, and after the game posted on their official X account: "Three extremely poor decisions - three penalties not given - which we simply cannot accept.

"We warned the PGMOL that the VAR [Stuart Attwell] is a Luton fan before the game but they didn't change him. Our patience has been tested multiple times. NFFC will now consider its options."

Forest were in a relegation battle with Luton last season, but ultimately stayed up, while the Hatters were relegated.

The FA alleged that the comments posted on social media constituted improper conduct by implying bias and/or questioning the integrity of the match official(s) and/or the video assistant referee and/or bringing the game into disrepute.

Forest denied the charge but an independent Regulatory Commission found it to be proven and imposed a £750,000 fine.

The Appeal Board has also dismissed a subsequent appeal in relation to both liability and sanction, and has ordered the club to remove the social media post.

Nottingham Forest have deleted the post. The post was viewed more than 40 million times before it was deleted.

Hudson-Odoi not looking at table as Forest hunt Champions League spot

Nottingham Forest matchwinner Callum Hudson-Odoi says he is not looking at the Premier League table despite the 1-0 win over Manchester City.

Hudson-Odoi earned Forest a famous victory against the defending champions to strengthen their grip on a Champions League qualification place.

They moved five points clear of City and with 10 games to go they are looking a good bet to make it into the premier European competition next season.

But Hudson-Odoi said: “We take it game by game, we are not looking at the table.

“We just look at every game that comes and make sure we get the points we can and play the way we can play and get as many points as possible.

“Hopefully we remain where we are, it’s important we keep going.”

The former Chelsea winger was the hero with an 82nd-minute winner that caught City goalkeeper Ederson out at the near post.

“It’s an amazing game, it was very tough, buy I am happy to get the win, buzzing with the goal, buzzing with the win, just an amazing day,” he added on BBC Radio Nottingham.

“We have got to keep working hard every day, every game that comes we have to make sure we are ready and we have to keep getting the wins and the points.

“The team worked hard, they deserved the win.”

Nuno shows off dance moves after win over Man City!

Nottingham Forest head coach Nuno Espirito Santo showed off his dance moves after watching his side beat Manchester City.

FREE MATCH HIGHLIGHTS: NOTTM FOREST 1-0 MAN CITY

Fundamental Forest frustrate Man City

Sky Sports' Patrick Rowe:

The overwhelming feeling from Nuno Espirito Santo's press conference was that of pride and joy - but he was quick to point out the key reasons behind the win.

"Organisation and help were fundamental," he said. And he is not wrong.

Forest sat deep inside their own half and frustrated City. Suffocating any space for the likes of Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva to operate in and denying Erling Haaland the ball whenever possible.

That frustration spilled over and into City's display in front of goal. When they were not speculatively trying their luck from distance, they were snapping at chances that the likes of Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne would dispatch in years gone by.

At the other end, Forest flooded forward with pace, intent and when it mattered, a degree of composure.

This City side are a shadow of their former selves but that should not take away from the outfit they faced today.

Forest find themselves in third place because they are, as Pep Guardiola correctly pointed out, very good.

Nuno: Just enjoy the moment!

Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo has refused to comment on Champions League qualification chances and insisted that everyone involved should keep "enjoying" the moment.

Forest opened up a four-point gap on Manchester City in fourth thanks to their 1-0 victory over Pep Guardiola's side at the City Ground on Saturday.

"We are happy! Very happy. We did a good game against a tough team," he said.

Nottingham Forest 1-0 Man City: Callum Hudson-Odoi's late strike settles crucial game in fight for Champions League

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"The organisation and help were fundamental. I am proud and happy.

"Doesn't change anything. It is about the focus and let's enjoy the journey together. Players are doing amazing and the fans are giving help. Keep on enjoying!

"This gives you the confidence that you can compete with such good players. It allows us to grow but it doesn't change. The Premier League is very tough.

"It is very difficult to stop City. It was good but there are still things to improve."

Report: Hudson-Odoi goal sinks Man City in crucial game for Forest

Nottingham Forest 1-0 Man City: Callum Hudson-Odoi's late strike settles crucial game in fight for Champions League

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Nuno expected to ring changes for City clash

Nuno Espirito Santo made six changes for Nottingham Forest's FA Cup penalty shootout win against Ipswich on Monday, and the likes of Chris Wood, Morgan Gibbs-White, Elliot Anderson and Neco Williams are all expected to return to the starting line-up.

'City boosted by signings'

Nottingham Forest lost 3-0 at the Etihad Stadium in December and Nuno Espirito Santo believes Man City’s January signings and the return of players from injury makes them an even tougher proposition this time round.

Omar Marmoush, Vitor Reis, Abdukodir Khusanov and Nico Gonzalez all arrived in the latest transfer window for a combined total of around £190m.

“All the teams have been suffering absences and when the moment comes that players start returning, the adjustment that they make to their own squad, they look better. We expect it to be much harder,” Nuno said.

The Portuguese refused to be drawn on the reasons behind City’s decline this season and insisted Guardiola remains as influential as ever.

Nuno added: “Pep is one of the coaches who has had a direct impact on the game. His ideas and the way he approaches (his work) and tries to build his teams.

“He has a big impact and he’s contagious to older managers because they see new things and different things.

“We’ve faced each other many times and it’s always about the players at the end of the day, the ability of the players to make the manager’s ideas work.

“More than anything it’s the quality of the players we are going to face and we have to control them and at the same time exploit our strengths and go for the game.”

Nothing changes – Nuno won’t switch up approach for Man City clash

Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo says his side will approach Saturday’s visit of Premier League champions Manchester City as they would any other game.

Forest, who sit third in the table, face a fourth-placed City side desperate to salvage their season as the race for top-four finish gathers pace.

Forest will move four points clear of Pep Guardiola’s side with victory at the City Ground, where they have not been beaten since November.

Nuno said: “The approach is the same. Nothing changes.

“You have to realise that you’re going to play a very, very good team, a team that has been able to clearly dominate in the last years, a coach that has a big impact on the game and fantastic players.

“But it’s the same approach. It’s realising how hard it’s going to be, but at the same time with the joy of the moment.

“It’s going to be even more difficult than it was before (in the away fixture).”

Nuno: Home support crucial in chase for Champions League qualification

Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo says the club's partisan home support remains crucial in their bid for Champions League football.

Forest have lost only twice at the City Ground in the Premier League this season and are unbeaten there since November, while six of their remaining 11 fixtures are at home.

The Portuguese, whose side sit third in the table, one place and a point above Saturday's visitors Manchester City, said: "I honestly believe that the players feel comfortable playing at the City Ground.

"Some of them are just anxious to play at the City Ground. They enjoy it so much and that reflects on the performance of the team.

"More than anything, it's the fans. The noise, the atmosphere, the help that they give us, the extra run that they make us do, the noise that they make when the opponent has the ball.

"All these things come together. It is huge for us to play at the City Ground."

Yates keen to help Forest reach Wembley after FA Cup win over Ipswich

Nottingham Forest captain Ryan Yates says their run to the FA Cup quarter-finals will only be worthwhile if they can turn it into a Wembley date.

Forest overcame Ipswich in the last 16 after Matz Sels saved Jack Taylor’s final spot-kick to set up a last-eight clash with Brighton.

It was the second time in the tournament that Forest have progressed on penalties after needing them against League One Exeter in round four.

Forest’s brilliant season sees them contending for cup glory as well as being in the hunt for Champions League football via their Premier League standing.

Yates told Forest TV: “If we win the next one it’s a nice cup run.

“A day out at Wembley. I think a lot of the so-called bigger teams are out and an opportunity for someone when it comes round, an exciting one.

“We were really pushing for the winner, made some really attacking subs but we couldn’t quite get the winner.

“Selsy managed to get the win for us but credit to the lads, the penalties were so good.”

Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has told Sky Sports News he wanted to play on after he suffered a gruesome ear injury against Millwall in the FA Cup.

Mateta required 25 stitches after a horror challenge from Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts saw him stretchered off at Selhurst Park in last month's FA Cup fifth-round tie that Palace won 3-1.

Roberts received an extended six-match ban from the Football Association for his high boot on Mateta, who was rushed to hospital in an ambulance after being left bloodied by the challenge with injuries around his ear.

But Mateta was unaware of the severity of the wounds he had suffered, and pleaded with the Palace doctor to let him return to action.

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In a TV exclusive with Sky Sports News' chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol, Mateta said: "When he kicked me, I was on the floor waiting for him to get the red card. I was good to go. I thought, 'just get the blood off and keep going'.

"I was arguing with the doctor for 30 seconds, saying I wanted to play. The doctor saw the injury, but I couldn't see it.

"I couldn't feel pain. The blood, for sure. But I thought it was a little cut. My ear was like this [dangling]. But it was not painful."

He added: "From Palace, everyone was texting me and wanted to come to the hospital to see me. The doctor told them it was OK and that I would be visiting the training ground.

"Liam contacted me and texted me while I was in hospital and I told him 'it is OK it is football'. He apologised. He was worried."

Roberts abuse 'crazy'

Despite the gruesome nature of the incident in the south London derby, Mateta does not believe Roberts had malicious intent in the challenge.

"I don't think he woke up and thought I want to cut the head of JP," he said. "There is a lot of pressure. He wanted to do good, too much emotion makes you do crazy things. It was just a mistake. You learn from it."

The Palace forward also commented on the abuse Roberts received across social media, which led to Millwall releasing a statement in support of their player, in the aftermath of the injury.

"It is crazy but you know the fans will react on social media," he said. "I didn't send them to do this."

Mateta to wear face mask on return to action

The Frenchman missed Palace's 1-0 Premier League home win over Ipswich on March 8 - their last game prior to the international break - but he is targeting the game against Fulham in the FA Cup quarter-finals on March 29 after already returning to individual training.

When asked about his recovery and the timeframe for his return, Mateta added: "We were in Marbella last week and I trained [not with the squad]."

When pushed for an answer on his return date, he continued: "I don't know. I'm still in touch with the specialists and the doctor. Hopefully, soon.

"Hopefully, I can play [vs Fulham]. Hopefully, they can see me. I'm in the ground every day."

Mateta also confirmed that when he does make his return to the field, he will be wearing a protective mask while the stitches continue to heal completely.

"I need to wear a mask, I need to wear something," he said. "I will take the best one that is most comfortable."

James: Tuchel the best coach I've played for

Reece James says new England head coach Thomas Tuchel is the best coach he has played for.

The pair worked together at Chelsea, in which James was well-utilised at wing-back, and have been reunited with a call-up in the German's first Three Lions squad.

When asked where Tuchel ranks among the coaches he's worked with, James told ITV Sport: "The best.

"There's various reasons why. He brought trophies to [Chelsea] when we probably least expected it, in a difficult period."

England play Albania in Tuchel's first game on Friday as qualifying for the 2026 World Cup begins.

James has worked under a number of coaches at Chelsea - Frank Lampard (twice), Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, Bruno Saltor (interim), Mauricio Pochettino and Enzo Maresca.

Chelsea top world for securing squad beyond 2026

Sky Sports Data Editor Adam Smith:

Chelsea top the world for handing game-time to players contracted at the club beyond 2026, according to a CIES Football Observatory study.

A table-topping 91.8 per cent of the Blues' minutes this season have been played by players on contracts beyond next year, referred to in the study as 'minutes secured'.

In terms of Premier League clubs, Man Utd (86.4 per cent) rank second on the list, followed by Arsenal (85.8 per cent) and Bournemouth (82.1 per cent).

At the other end of the scale, only 34.4 per cent of Everton's minutes this term have been registered from players signed beyond 2026.

Relegation battlers Leicester (55.2 per cent) and Southampton (56.1 per cent) also register a low proportion of long-term contracted players - along with league leaders Liverpool (58.1 per cent).

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The raft of long-term contracts at Chelsea reflects a broader transfer policy to recruit younger players, with the Blues' starting XI averaging at a league-low 24 years old.

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Indeed, the Blues' combined contract lengths of current squad players weigh in at a staggering 143 years. Meanwhile, Everton - who rank bottom for 'minutes secured' and have the second-oldest starting XI - also have the lowest total for contracted years.

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Blues must sell to buy a striker this summer

Chelsea want to sign a striker this summer but will need to sell to satisfy Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) restrictions, reports today's Daily Mail.

Why Chelsea snapped up 'Saka-like' Quenda

The rise of Geovany Quenda, set to join Chelsea in 2026, as told by his former youth coach at Sporting for Sky Sports' Next Up series.

Geovany Quenda: Sporting's 'Bukayo Saka-like' star joining Chelsea next year

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Sporting announce Chelsea deals for Quenda and Essugo

Sporting CP have confirmed the agreement for Chelsea to sign Geovany Quenda and Dario Essugo.

The Blues have signed Quenda for £40m and Essugo for £18.5m - neither deal has any add-ons.

Wing-back Quenda, 17, has played 44 times for Sporting this season, which includes 10 Champions League appearances, and will join Chelsea in the summer of 2026.

Meanwhile, midfielder Essugo is currently on loan at LaLiga club Las Palmas and will move in 2025.

Chelsea are very impressed with the 20-year-old's rapid development. They see him as a ball winner who will add depth to their squad and play regularly.

Essugo will sign a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge. He became Sporting's youngest player when he made his first-team debut a week after turning 16 in 2021.

Chelsea transfers: Sporting confirm Geovany Quenda and Dario Essugo agreements for Premier League switch

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Report: Chelsea given the most minutes to players under contract until at least 2026

Chelsea have the given the most minutes to players who are under contract until at least 2026, according to a report.

Data from the CIES Football Observatory shows Enzo Maresca's side have had 91.8 per cent of their "minutes secured" this season by players under contract for at least another 12 months,

Chelsea came out on top in an analysis of 37 league across the world, narrowly finishing ahead of Ligue 1 side Monaco and Eredivisie outfit AZ Alkmaar on 91.3 and 89.2 per cent respectively.

The club has 17 players contracted to the club for at least the next five years.

CIES collected data from 37 leagues across the world, with Championship side Coventry ranked eighth overall with a percentage of 86.2 per cent.

In the Premier League, Manchester United and Arsenal complete the top three for 'minutes secured'. Ruben Amorim's side have a percentage of 86.4, while the Mikel Arteta's side sit on 85.3.

At the other end of the scale are league leaders Liverpool, with a 'minutes secured' percentage of just 58.1.

Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk have featured in every league game for Arne Slot's side this season and are out of contract at the end of the season

The Premier League side with the lowest 'minutes secured' so far this season are Everton, with just 34.4 per cent, who have 10 players out of contract in the summer and a further four running until 2025.

James: Tuchel the best coach I've played for

Reece James says new England head coach Thomas Tuchel is the best coach he has played for.

The pair worked together at Chelsea, in which James was well-utilised at wing-back, and have been reunited with a call-up in the German's first Three Lions squad.

When asked where Tuchel ranks among the coaches he's worked with, James told ITV Sport: "The best.

"There's various reasons why. He brought trophies to [Chelsea] when we probably least expected it, in a difficult period."

England play Albania in Tuchel's first game on Friday as qualifying for the 2026 World Cup begins.

James has worked under a number of coaches at Chelsea - Frank Lampard (twice), Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, Bruno Saltor (interim), Mauricio Pochettino and Enzo Maresca.

Chelsea considering paying Man Utd to return Sancho

Chelsea are considering paying a penalty fee to avoid a £25m obligation to buy Jadon Sancho this summer following the 24-year-old forward's loan move from Manchester United, says the I paper.

Man Utd news & transfer updates | Chelsea news & transfer updates

The England international has scored just two goals since making the switch to Stamford Bridge.

England train for World Cup qualifiers without Palmer

Chelsea forward Cole Palmer was absent as England trained fully for the first time under Thomas Tuchel ahead of forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia.

Palmer is yet to join up with Tuchel’s 26-man group as he remains at Chelsea for further assessment on an injury picked up ahead of Sunday’s defeat at Arsenal.

It remains to be seen whether he will be fit for the weekend games, but Palmer’s fitness concern was pre-empted by the late call-up of Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White on Sunday.

England: Thomas Tuchel adds Morgan Gibbs-White to squad with Cole Palmer a doubt for World Cup qualifiers

Sky Sports

All other players took part in Tuesday’s session at St George’s Park as Tuchel worked with all of his players for the first time.

The German conducted a short session on Monday but not everyone, including Newcastle’s Dan Burn, took part as they had played for their clubs the previous day.

A senior squad of 26 players were joined by Under-21s trio Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Adam Wharton and Liam Delap as the competition to impress Tuchel begins in earnest.

Tuchel’s reign starts with a World Cup qualifier against Albania on Friday followed by a second game at Wembley on Monday, with Latvia the opponents.

Maresca 'excited' for Club World Cup challenge | 'World-class Palmer can create something out of nothing'

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has been speaking to FIFA about this summer’s new expanded 32-team Club World Cup.

The Blues are one of 12 European teams playing in the tournament in the United States in June and July.

How much are you looking forward to the Club World Cup this summer?

"Well, I’m happy, especially because it’s a tournament that brings together the 32 top teams in the world. So, it’s pretty exciting to take part in such a huge competition."

You also have the opportunity to face other top coaches and some world-class teams?

"We were there – in North America – last summer, and it’s pretty great. There were many fans there and it’s an opportunity for them to come to watch us and for us to meet them. So, there’s no doubt that it will be a great occasion."

You will be playing Brazil’s Flamengo in the group stage?

"Well, as far as culture is concerned, Brazilian fans are great to watch, as well, because they are cheerful, they are entertaining. So, with their culture and our culture coming together, hopefully we’ll be able to ensure that the people who come to watch the game at the stadium have a great time.

There’s a real International feel to Chelsea’s group as well?

"Mexico, Brazil, Tunisia and England – four different cultures coming together, will likely bring unique moments compared to those we would typically experience here in Europe."

What would it mean to be the first winners of the Club World Cup?

"Fantastic motivation. That’s what you need to see it as, as a source of motivation. As I’ve told you before, when you’re at Chelsea, your goal is to win as much as you can. And when we’re there, that will be one of our goals: to try to win it.

What are you memories of playing in Atlanta last summer?

"It was a nice stadium. If memory serves me right, we won that match against Club America, as well. It will surely be different this time around, though, because this will be an official tournament; those were just friendlies, which matter, of course, but not as much. Hopefully we’ll manage to do it again, in that very stadium, and win the game.

How important could Cole Palmer be for you in the US?

"I’ve said it more than once: Cole Palmer is up there with the very best, top players who can produce something at any moment, create something out of nothing. He wasn’t with me on the USA tour last summer, so it will also be a chance for him to experience the environment there and to introduce himself to [North] America."

Merson: Chelsea have the best attack in PL? Arteta must be joking!

Sky Sports' Paul Merson pens his latest column on Mikel Arteta's comments that Chelsea are the best attacking team in the Premier League.

Paul Merson: Mikel Arteta says Chelsea are the best attacking team in the Premier League? He must be joking!

Sky Sports

Ref Watch: Should Arsenal have had a penalty for Cucurella's handball?

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher discusses whether Arsenal should have been given a penalty for a possible handball by Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella.

Timber's awkward handshake with Maresca before full-time!

Jurrien Timber was heard telling Enzo Maresca to ‘try harder’ as the pair came together towards the end of Arsenal’s 1-0 win against Chelsea at the Emirates.

Chelsea lost without their difference makers

Sky Sports' Sam Blitz at the Emirates following Chelsea's defeat to Arsenal:

'Mikel Arteta described Chelsea as the best attacking team in the world "by a mile". It pricked some ears up in the press conference room, as did Enzo Maresca by saying they are on the "right path". It was not seen on Sunday.

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'The Blues are in a rut in front of goal. At the Emirates, they produced their lowest Expected Goals rate (0.35) and their fewest shots and opposition box touches (both 8) of the season.

'Both of their shots on target came from Marc Cucurella, who also scored the winner last weekend. Chelsea's best goal threat is currently a left-back.

'Their last Premier League away win came on December 8 - the 4-3 turnaround at Spurs which saw them fall 2-0 down. Their eight games without a win on the road is the longest since the run that contributed to Graham Potter's Stamford Bridge sacking. Chelsea are not playing like a team primed for the Champions League.

'The injury list is the biggest explanation of this form. Cole Palmer's absence is obvious - even on a seven-game goalless run - but losing Noni Madueke and Nicolas Jackson to long-term injuries means the Blues' first-choice front three is all missing.

'But remember, this is a squad that cost £1.3bn to assemble, more than the second and third-most free-spending teams combined.

'Chelsea are hopeful all three players can be fit after the international break and it's essential. Maresca talked about the importance of making "the next step" and that Champions League football could be vital for it.

'It feels like getting those three back and firing again for the run-in is vital for what comes next for Maresca and Chelsea.'

The Verdict: Arsenal show versatility as Chelsea lack plan B

Arteta: Chelsea are the best attacking team in Premier League

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta believes Chelsea will be a threat next season and they are the best attacking team in the Premier League.

Chelsea remain fourth in the Premier League after they were beaten 1-0 by Arsenal on Sunday.

Enzo Maresca's side were without attacking threats Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke in north London but Arteta says Arsenal still had to be at their best defensively.

"We continue to do a lot of things defensively so well that earn us the right to attack open spaces but there were so many situations, huge advantages that we just gave away," he said.

"So we have to track back 70m and on that face, we were one of the best teams in the world today because we were unbelievable in the way we've done it.

"We haven't conceded almost [anything] apart from the strange save from David [Raya]. Because in my opinion they're the best attacking team in the league. By a mile. The stats say it, everything I've seen says it in open play.

"They can open you, they can run in transitions, they have individual quality, any player in the defensive line can threaten inside. They can combine on both sides, their weaker sides, they are missing some big players at the moment.

Asked if Chelsea will be a threat next season, Arteta said: "Yeah. I think if they didn't have to play Thursday-Saturday and the amount of injuries they have as well, they would be on the edge.

"The manager they have is really good and the players and the squad, the quality they have."

FREE MATCH HIGHLIGHTS: ARSENAL 1-0 CHELSEA

REPORT: Merino winner sees Arsenal edge Chelsea in feisty London derby

Mikel Merino's first-half header was enough to settle Arsenal's 1-0 win over Chelsea in a feisty and tense Super Sunday London derby.

Arsenal 1-0 Chelsea: Mikel Merino winner from another Gunners set-piece beats Blues in feisty Premier League derby

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Chelsea agree £18.5m deal to sign defensive midfielder Essugo in summer

Latest from Sky Sports News' chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol:

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign defensive midfielder Dario Essugo from Sporting.

The Blues are paying £18.5m with no add-ons for the 20-year-old, who will join in June on a seven-year contract having already had his medical.

The Portuguese is currently on loan in Spain at Las Palmas.

Chelsea have been very impressed with his rapid development and see him as a ball-winner who will add depth to their squad and play regularly.

Essugo is the second youngster Enzo Maresca's side have agreed to sign from Sporting in 24 hours - on Friday they agreed a £40m deal for Geovany Quenda.

Essugo became Sporting's youngest player when he made his first-team debut a week after turning 16 in 2021.

Maresca: Gap between Chelsea and Arsenal is quite big

Enzo Maresca believes the gap between his Chelsea side and Arsenal is "quite big" ahead of their Super Sunday showdown live on Sky Sports.

Arsenal are aiming to keep their faint title hopes alive while Chelsea are pushing for a Champions League place.

Asked how big the gap is between the two clubs, Maresca said: "It's quite big. The reason why is because they are working with the same manager for five years,so the difference is quite important.

"With the same players, they already played for some important games. But our target, our duty is to close that gap between us and them.

"In this moment, the table just said that the difference between us and them is six points. So we are quite close, but we have still nine games to go.

We have two targets. That is finish in the top four or top five for the Champions League. And the other one is the Conference League.

"This club is used to playing in finals and fighting for titles. So if we are able to give to the fans and the club, again, this chance it's important for us."

Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen says he is "prepared to find something new" upon the expiry of his current contract at Old Trafford.

The 33-year-old's deal at United is set to expire this summer and he has suggested talks with the club over an extension are yet to take place.

"In my head, I'm prepared to find something new," Eriksen said, speaking to Danish outlet TV2 ahead of Denmark's two-legged Nations League quarter-final against Portugal.

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"What that will be is not something I've decided yet. I haven't heard anything, and when I don't, I assume that the collaboration stops.

"That's how I interpret it. Everyone knows that the contract expires, so I figure there's only one way [it will go]."

Eriksen has made 27 appearances for United this season but has only started in six of his 14 appearances under new boss Ruben Amorim. Two of those starts, however, have come in United's last three games.

The former Spurs midfielder signed for United in 2022 on a free transfer.

Which Man Utd players are also out of contract in the summer?

Jonny Evans

A short-term deal for the defender to regain fitness over pre-season has become a two-year stay for the veteran defender in his second spell at Old Trafford.

The 36-year-old was brought back to the club by Erik ten Hag, and was used a squad player by new head coach Ruben Amorim until his injury which has ruled him out since late December. It is yet to be agreed if his current deal will extend beyond this season.

Victor Lindelof

United exercised the option in the 30-year-old defender's contract to keep him until this summer so he is free to leave if he does not feel his future lies at Old Trafford. Lindelof has recently returned from a lengthy injury lay-off and has started three of United's last four matches.

Tom Heaton

United's third-choice goalkeeper, 38, signed a one-year deal last summer but has not been used by the first team since then. Heaton was last named in a matchday squad back in October.

Dan Burn revealed he has yet to celebrate Newcastle's historic Carabao Cup triumph due to his first call-up for England.

The towering 32-year-old celebrated his maiden call into an England squad last Thursday by powering home Newcastle's opening goal in Sunday's Wembley win against Liverpool.

The Blyth-born defender is now hoping to make his first appearance at any level for his country in head coach Thomas Tuchel's first game in charge in Friday's World Cup qualifier against Albania.

Reporter Notebook: Inside Thomas Tuchel's first England training session

Paul Merson: England squad needs a rest but Thomas Tuchel hasn't got time

England fixtures | World Cup 2026 European qualifying: Fixtures and full schedule

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Burn said: "It was strange. As soon as I left the stadium [on Sunday] my focus completely switched to this.

"I had my family here and the kids and we ended up getting on the bus about 12 o'clock back to the hotel.

"It was getting a bit rowdy and I was just ready to go to sleep! There will be time to celebrate. I know the club's put stuff out about there being a parade [a week] on Saturday, so I think that's when I'll celebrate.

"But I've waited a long time for this opportunity and didn't want to spoil it."

Burn has 'had to wait long and hard'

Sky Sports News senior reporter Rob Dorsett at St George's Park:

"He had a massive grin on his face [when he walked into the news conference].

"And well, he has had the week of his life hasn't he, Dan Burn? Called up by the senior England squad for the first time on Friday, scores that blinding header in the final on Sunday and then lifts the trophy for his boyhood club to end 70 years of domestic trophy hurt.

"All at the age of 32! So, he's had to wait long and hard for this opportunity.

"He's clearly relishing it and he's not overawed at all by the quality of the playing staff that he's now mixing with."

Burn: I'd previously been overlooked for England

Burn, whose career started at Darlington and has included spells at Yeovil and Wigan, admitted he felt an England call-up had passed him by.

"Yeah, I think I have been overlooked, but I understood it," he said. "What Gareth (Southgate) did to bring England from where it was to competing in finals showed that his method was very good.

"When the new manager came in there was a clean slate, but once you've been passed over during so many international breaks, you sort of accept the time has passed, but luckily the new manager has taken a chance on me.

"It's probably made me very resilient. I don't think I've had a straight-line trajectory in my career, I started really late and it's been very up and down.

"I made my Premier League debut at 21 and three years later I was released by Fulham, so I feel it's just made me stronger.

"I don't really care about people's opinions. I've learned I know what I'm good at, I know opinions that matter to me.

"I feel I've been doubted a lot over my career. I doubt many people who watched me play at Darlington would say that I'd be sat here doing a press conference for England."

Burn aiming to be part of 2026 World Cup squad

Burn said his aim is now to secure his place in Tuchel's plans for the World Cup campaign and appear on football's biggest stage.

He added: "I'm trying to take it camp by camp at the minute. I just want to make a big impression and try and make the next camp.

"But obviously it's every kid's dream to play in a World Cup or even to play for your country, so to know I've got that opportunity, if I take it, it's special."

Dan Burn features in the next Sky Sports One on One podcast - listen and subscribe here.

Gibbs-White: I told Tuchel I should've been called up

Nottingham Forest captain Morgan Gibbs-White told Thomas Tuchel he should have been in the England squad before earning a late call-up after an injury to Cole Palmer.

He told BBC Radio 5 Live: "I was upset, a little bit disappointed. But when he told me, I respected his decision. The standard of players is top level.

"I said back to him 'I feel like I've done enough to get the call-up, considering the form level that we were in, but obviously you're the manager, you make the decisions, and I respect that totally'.

"But then Sunday I got the call, so I was straight here. It was about 4 or 5 o'clock. He sent me a message to say 'Are you free to talk?' and I think I replied within 30 seconds.

"He phoned me up and said 'Are you still upset with me, or do you want to come and join us and fancy training tomorrow?'

"There's no question there. I said I'd love to come and join and train with the boys... I was smiling from ear to ear."

Merson: England squad needs a reset but Tuchel hasn't got time

The England squad needs a reset but Thomas Tuchel hasn't got time for that.

How Morgan Gibbs-White didn't get picked originally is just beyond a joke. He's played the whole season. Marcus Rashford's played 10 minutes. But I'm not blaming Rashford, I'm blaming the FA for the contract that they've given Tuchel.

They've given him no time to get it right. He should have been given a longer deal with two World Cups and a European Championship.

He can't afford to keep on looking at squads and seeing if Tom, Dick or Harry's going to be all right for next year. He needs his team now. He needs to win a World Cup.

Everton manager David Moyes speaking in the press conference after his team's 1-1 draw with West Ham:

"It was a tough game, very close, probably a draw the right result in the end. We were probably better in the first half without doing enough, one or two chances. I thought West Ham had a couple of counter-attacks, were a threat.

"The second half, West Ham were better, certainly in the first 20, 30 minutes or so. I think once they scored, we were back into the game. Maybe a bit unlucky not to get a winner.

"We are disappointed because we were trying to take the points, but that just tells you about the expectation.

"West Ham are a terrific team, I know, I spent most of the money there. They have got a lot of really, really good players so we've got no divine right to think we can win."

David Moyes faces his former side West Ham for the first time after his last summer.

Moyes’ second West Ham stint included three top-10 finishes and winning the Conference League in 2023. He said of his time there: “I had great times with everybody at the club.

"After winning the European trophy, coming back, to see what the east end of London was like was fantastic.

“I’ve not brought all the players into West Ham but the bulk of them probably were on my watch, and I’ve a lot of really close bonds with the players there. So it will be great to see them all but a really difficult situation to be coming up against them.”

Everton boss David Moyes has urged Jarrad Branthwaite to make a point to Thomas Tuchel with his England U21s performances after the defender missed out on selection for the senior squad.

Moyes said: “I don’t pick the England squad, so I can only say if you’re looking at the last six or seven weeks, Jarrad Branthwaite would be up there playing as well as any English centre-half in the country.

“But the big thing he needs to do? Go and play for England U21s and be the best player again, and then he gets selected again.

“That’s the instructions I’ve been giving him – go and show what you can do for the 21s and Lee Carsley will pass good information back to the manager and hopefully it will get you back in.

“He doesn’t need picking up because he’s a young centre-half at the moment. You’ve got to learn your trade, keep improving, and I told him go and play really well for the Under-21s and show Thomas he should have taken you into the squad.”

Latest from Sky Sports News' Alan Myers and Amar Mehta:

Everton has engaged the services of a KC to act on its behalf should Burnley bring a claim of compensation as a result of relegation in season 2021/22

Mark Howard KC, who acted for Everton during their PSR disputes over financial year 2022, which saw them deducted points, will represent the club again if Burnley go ahead with legal action

No date has been set for any such arbitration hearing at this point with Burnley one of five clubs that were given a green light to, potentially, bring a claim for lost revenue as a result of relegation from the Premier League

Sky Sports News has contacted Burnley for comment. This story was first reporter in The Lawyer magazine.

Everton will take on Man Utd, Bournemouth and West Ham as the Premier League summer series makes its way to the US two years after its last visit.

Everton defender James Tarkowski said:"We’ve found out about the trip over the last few days and we are super excited.

"We enjoy meeting fans from far and wide, and this is a great opportunity for people to come to see us play and prepare for the new season.

"I know we've got a big fanbase in North America already but spreading the name of Everton is always good. We have new American ownership, a new stadium, a new manager, so it's exciting. We are looking forward to the future - and that starts with next season and the Summer Series over in the U.S."

Summer Series fixtures

MetLife Stadium, New Jersey:

July 26: Everton vs Bournemouth, kick-off 9pm

July 27: Man Utd vs West Ham, kick-off 12am

Soldier Field, Chicago:

July 30: West Ham vs Everton, kick-off 11.30pm

July 31: Man Utd vs Bournemouth, kick-off 2.30am

Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta:

August 3: Bournemouth vs West Ham, kick-off 7pm

August 3: Man Utd vs Everton, kick-off 10pm

Everton's Jordan Pickford on TNTSport:

"I think we're a bit disappointed (not to beat Wolves) but it's still a point. We're still unbeaten.

"I think we've come a long way. I think we could have created more chances, they didn't hurt us that much.

"I just think we need to be a bit more clinical and get up the pitch a bit better and take our chances.

"But we'll take a point away from home and keep up that unbeaten run and keep that confidence in the team.

"We're looking forward now and not looking behind."

Everton boss David Moyes admits he has been surprised by how well the team have done since he returned as manager in January.

The Toffees’ are unbeaten in seven league matches, winning four, and are 15 points clear of the relegation zone.

Moyes said: “I think they have (surprised me).

“I think they probably surprised all the people in this room as well, how well they have done over recent weeks, and probably surprised most of the Evertonians who have come to the games.

“I think now we are seeing players who are certainly stepping up to better levels. We’ve showed a little bit of consistency. I think the bit now is can you go further, what you’re going to do next, how can we keep it going, and I’m just talking about little bits of progress every week.

“We’re certainly not turning water into wine, but if we can keep moving slightly along the road and feeling we’re a bit better, I think that’s the right way to go.”

Everton have a considerable list of players still out because of injury – Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Armando Broja, Iliman Ndiaye, Dwight McNeil, Orel Mangala and Seamus Coleman – but Abdoulaye Doucoure is available after missing the Brentford game due to the birth of his son.

Everton have agreed a long-term finance package totalling £350million for their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock.

A consortium of blue-chip institutional lenders have refinanced borrowing which supported the completion of the 52,888-capacity ground as new owners The Friedkin Group look to stabilise the club’s finances after several years of overspending and profitability and sustainability problems.

It means lending has been moved to a more advantageous rate, potentially saving millions of pounds, after a series of short-term solutions were employed by previous owner Farhad Moshiri in order to complete the final phase of the build.

Bramley-Moore Dock hosted its first test event for 10,000 fans last month and will hold a second for at least 25,000 supporters in a fortnight’s time.

The whole project, including work to the surrounding area, is estimated to cost in the region of £850m.

Everton will move into the new stadium, which has been selected as a venue for Euro 2028, for the start of next season.

Jake O'Brien is relishing the "positive vibe" at Everton after his first goal for the club helped stretch their unbeaten run to seven matches.

Republic of Ireland centre-half O'Brien had started only two Premier League matches under previous boss Sean Dyche after signing from Lyon in the summer.

But he has been an ever-present in Everton's longest undefeated streak since 2017 after being converted to a right-back by David Moyes.

And the 6ft 4in defender capped another solid display with a fine diving header 13 minutes from time as the Toffees battled to a 1-1 draw at Brentford.

"It's amazing to get my first goal and to come away with something," O'Brien told Everton TV.

"It was a tough game but we knew in the second half that we had to push forward and, gladly, I was on the end of the cross and we've come away with another point.

"I like to chip in offensively and I think it's probably a bit easier playing right-back that I can push forward and get more goals. So hopefully it's the first of many.

"We've had tough games the past few weeks but the lads have dug in. We knew it wasn't going to be easy and we're seven unbeaten now.

"I'm very happy because obviously it's a new role for me and, pushing forward, I want to have something to show for it.

"But more so, I'm just happy for the team that we've come away with something and now we push on and keep trying to get up that table.

"There's been a really positive vibe around the training ground, everyone's enjoying training and I think we're going into every game confident that we can come away with something."

VOTE: Would you want Poch back at Spurs?

After ex-Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino told Sky Sports News he wants to "one day" return to the club, we're asking Spurs fans whether they would want the Argentine back in the future. Vote in our poll below!

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Donley receives Northern Ireland clearance after call-up

Jamie Donley has received clearance from FIFA to play for Northern Ireland in their upcoming friendlies and could be called upon after fellow striker Dion Charles pulled out of Michael O’Neill’s squad through injury.

O’Neill announced earlier on Tuesday that 20-year-old Donley, who is on loan at Leyton Orient from Tottenham, had been drafted in even though the Irish Football Association were still awaiting the necessary paperwork for a player who has represented both England and Northern Ireland at various youth levels.

Donley, born to a Northern Irish father and English mother, has scored six goals and added six assists in 27 games for Orient this season.

He was one of two changes made to O’Neill’s squad for Friday’s friendly at home to Switzerland and next week’s trip to Sweden.

Motherwell defender Kofi Balmer, yet to make his senior debut despite having been called up previously, has replaced injured Bolton centre-back Eoin Toal.

VOTE: Would you want Poch back at Spurs?

After ex-Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino told Sky Sports News he wants to "one day" return to the club, we're asking Spurs fans whether they would want the Argentine back in the future. Vote in our poll below!

Monterosa This content is provided by Monterosa, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Monterosa cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options. Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Monterosa cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Monterosa cookies for this session only.

Poch: I want Spurs return one day and still talk to Levy

First off, in case you missed the big exclusive from Monday, then USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino has told Sky Sports News that he wants to return "one day" to manage his former club Tottenham Hotspur, as well as revealing he still has a "very good relationship" with chairman Daniel Levy.

Read more from our wide-ranging sit-down with the Argentine here:

Mauricio Pochettino exclusive: Ex-Tottenham boss wants to return to club one day and still talks to Daniel Levy

Sky Sports

Iraola & Silva front runners for Spurs job if Postecoglou leaves

Tottenham Hotspur will look at Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva as possible replacements for Ange Postecoglou if the north London club decide to bring in a new head coach this summer, according to reports in the Daily Telegraph.

The Australian is under increasing pressure at Spurs, who are currently languishing down in 14th place in the Premier League after their 2-0 loss at Fulham on Sunday, the club's 15th in the league so far this campaign.

Spurs wrongly denied a late penalty at Fulham

INCIDENT: But late in the game with Tottenham 1-0 down, they had a great shout for a penalty. Lucas Bergvall went down in the box after being challenged by Calvin Bassey. VAR said Bergvall kicked into Bassey.

DERMOT SAYS: "When I saw the first angle, I didn't think it was a penalty. I thought Bergvall had gone into the back of Bassey.

"But when I look at the second angle, Bassey is extremely lucky. Bergvall gets the ball, Bassey doesn't. You have to get the ball in that situation. On the second angle, I do think it's a penalty.

"I heard the VAR, they felt Bergvall had gone into the back of Bassey, but Bergvall got the ball.

"Seeing that, I think it's a penalty. What's interesting is with the handball between Everton and Man City years ago, they concentrated so much on an angle that wasn't conclusive. But there was one angle that was.

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"When I first saw it live and the second angle, I wasn't convinced [this one was a penalty]. But when I saw the other angle, I can see Bergvall gets the ball. And that's conclusive.

"The first two angles, you can dismiss, because they don't give conclusive evidence."

The Verdict: Fulham eyeing Europe after win against 'toothless' Spurs

Sky Sports News reporter Gary Cotterill and senior football journalist Peter Smith review Fulham's win over Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League.

'Game got away from us!' | Deflated Ange says Spurs side lacks consistency

FREE MATCH HIGHLIGHTS: FULHAM 2-0 TOTTENHAM

'Not good enough' - Angry fans remonstrate with Tel

Mathys Tel went to the away end at Craven Cottage to ease the fury of the travelling support after Tottenham suffered their 15th defeat of the Premier League season at Fulham.

Cries of "it's not good enough" could be heard as fans remonstrated with the teenager, on loan at Spurs from Bayern Munich.

Ange Postecoglou sympathised with fans after the game, saying: "I get their disappointment. It's unacceptable.

"Fifteen defeats [in the league] is nowhere near good enough, nowhere near the level we need to be. I understand the supporters' frustrations with that."

Spurs were beaten by second-half goals from Fulham substitutes Rodrigo Muniz and Ryan Sessegnon on Sunday and sit 13th in the table.

Tottenham team news vs Fulham

Tottenham came through their tie with AZ Alkmaar unscathed on Thursday.

Micky van de Ven is having his minutes managedhaving been taken off on the hour mark against the Dutch side.

After serving his Europa League suspension, Rodrigo Bentancur is back and available for selection on Sunday.

Fraser Forster, Antonin Kinsky, Sergio Reguilon and Timo Werner are also all available after being ineligible for the tie with AZ.

Kevin Danso, Dejan Kulusevski and Richarlison remain sidelined through injury.

'Maddison and Spence can be in England frame'

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou on James Maddison and Djed Spence being left out of the England squad:

"I'm pretty critical of myself when people question my selections. Every manager's got all the information they need.

"Madders, in a real challenging season for us, he's really grinded his way through and his quality has really come through the last few weeks, especially when we've been able to give him a spell every now and then. Djed's been super this year.

"I always feel with these things, particularly with national team selection, it's never a thing where you just draw a line through it.

"I've got no doubt if Djed keeps performing like he is and Madders keeps working hard, I'm sure both of them will be in the frame."

Ange: Spurs starting to look more like themselves with returning stars

Ange Postecoglou says it is no surprise that Tottenham Hotspur are getting back to winning ways now their injured players are starting to return to fitness, after progressing to the Europa League quarter-finals with victory over AZ Alkmaar.

Ange Postecoglou: Tottenham are starting to look more like themselves with return of injured stars

Sky Sports

The Verdict: 'Spurs' season will be a disaster if they don't win Europa League'

Sky Sports' Will Bitabiri and James Cole discuss Tottenham Hotspur's crucial win over AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League that sees the North London side progress to the Europa League quarter-finals.

Postecoglou: We're our own worst enemy at times

While Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou was delighted with how his side saw off AZ Alkmaar 3-2 on aggregate to progress to the UEFA Europa League last eight, the Australian was still frustrated with his players for allowing the visitors back into the tie.

"I'm super pleased we progressed, which was the main thing, played pretty well as well, we were really in control of the game, but we are our own worst enemy at times," he told on TNT Sports.

"When we were in control, we let them back into the game and it got a bit nervy towards the end, but we thoroughly deserved to progress.

"We were in control for most of it, playing some good football, playing in their half, they hardly created a chance on goal, we then got our goals, but gave away a silly goal after a mix up and it got a bit nervy.

"We got a good third, had a chance to get a fourth and kill the game off, but it is a European tie, everyone is on edge and in the end we wanted to progress and that is what we did.

"We scored a great goal from the press and started the second half really well, really should've put the tie away in the first 15-20 minutes, but super pleased for the boys.

"It's why they're here, they're quality players. [Cristian] Romero and Micky [Van de Ven] make such a big difference to us and you saw Wilson [Odobert], we've hardly had him this year, what a super talent he is."

Maddison: We have not achieved anything yet

Spurs' James Maddison on TNT Sports:

"It's what we set out to do at the start of the two legs, there was a lot of talk after last week's performance and we were honest with ourselves, we were not good enough.

"I knew what were capable of here in front of our fans and we got the job done.

"We have not achieved anything yet, we are into the quarter-finals and we kick on and look forward to it.

"Over the last few months when we've spoken about injuries and missing key players, then tonight, we're stood in the tunnel and you look at the team and it's a group of men. When you have the spine of players who are experienced and have played at this level for a long time it makes a difference.

"Micky [Van de Ven] and Cuti [Romero], solid at the back and it was a solid performance and we're deservedly through.

"Wilson Odobert will grab the headlines tonight and rightly so, two goals and he was a threat, and I thought he was absolutely fantastic. I'm going to go give him a big pat on the back."

Report: Spurs turn around AZ tie to keep trophy hopes alive

Tottenham overcame a one-goal deficit to keep their trophy hopes alive with a 3-1 (3-2 aggregate) win over AZ Alkmaar in north London thanks to Wilson Odobert and James Maddison.

Tottenham Hotspur 3-1 AZ Alkmaar (3-2 agg): Wilson Odobert and James Maddison score to keep Spurs' Europa League hopes alive

Sky Sports

Ange provides brief Richarlison update

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou:

"After the international break he should be there or thereabouts, depending on his progress.

"It's good to see him out on the grass. He's working hard to get back in."

Ange: I don't have issue with second season record quote

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou:

"My view has always been, when you get asked a question, you answer it. I wasn't making anything up; I was asked a question, I answered that question.

"People have used it for their own purposes in suggesting I'm making a bold claim, but I wasn't - I was stating a fact.

"If that doesn't happen this year, I can't say that anymore if I'm asked next year, can I?

"What was I supposed to say? 'Oh yes, I always win in my second season - well I have in the past everywhere I've been, but here it won't happen' - is that what people wanted to hear?

"Maybe we defy all the odds and I do win something, people will say 'Wasn't it good he made such a bold claim?' People just use it the way they want to, depending on the circumstances.

"I'll always answer things the way I feel comfortable answering them. I'm proud of the fact, wherever I've been, I've won things; I wouldn't be sitting here if I didn't.

"Whether I win something in my second year here, time will tell."

Ange: No extra pressure on Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou:

"[There's] no extra pressure. We were disappointed with our performance in the first leg; I guess the important thing is we didn't make the tie impossible to get back into.

"They've got a one-goal advantage, but, being at home, if we can play with the same intensity as the weekend, we'll have an opportunity to progress.

"Should we progress, then we'll have another big challenge in the next round.

"But right now, they key focus is to put in a really strong performance at home tomorrow night and we'll go from there."

Is it win or bust for you tomorrow night?

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou:

"There aren't many professions in the world where you have to come in and answer questions like that, are there?

"I'm going to be polite and just say we're focused on winning the game tomorrow night.

"We need to put in a better performance than we did last Thursday. That wasn't anywhere near the standard we want to play.

"We did some good things on the weekend and some not so good things, but we certainly feel like, if we can play with the same intensity we played with at the weekend, we'll give ourselves a good chance to progress."

The energy, warmth and vivacious sense of fun is all there. A break from the day-to-day of club management has, it seems, done wonders for Mauricio Pochettino who arrives for our interview relaxed, happy and full of enthusiasm after a lunch in the London sunshine.

It was a very different Pochettino to the one I last saw 10 months or so ago a few weeks before leaving Chelsea. He is about to jump back on a plane to the USA to prepare his side to take on Panama in the CONCACAF semi-finals ahead of next year's World Cup, which the USA are co-hosting with Mexico and Canada. Life, though, could have looked very different for the Argentine on this sunny day in London where football is football and most definitely not soccer.

His Chelsea departure after he and the club "mutually agreed to part ways" took some by surprise after he had finished the season strongly guiding Chelsea to a League Cup final, the FA Cup semi-finals and a sixth-placed finish to gain Europa Conference League qualification.

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"I think always when something doesn't work it's better to stop and to look at different things and I think it was the best decision for both sides," Pochettino says. "Yes, I think both sides are happy to split and then to be open to see different options, and different options appear."

They did for various clubs and countries but Pochettino's next big decision of the last 12 months was to become head coach of the USA in September.

"Maybe it's not easy for the people to understand why," he says. "I think being the national coach or head coach of the USA with the World Cup in 2026, I think for a coaching staff like us, after too many years working in clubs, I think it was a great opportunity for us to challenge ourselves, to know how to discover and to learn doing things in different ways.

"I think it was a great opportunity and that is why we started to pay attention and when the offer arrived, I think it was easy to say yes.

"I think to host the World Cup is an amazing experience. Then with the country that we are talking about, the USA, I think it's amazing. Too many good things appear in this moment and of course one of the reasons to take the job was because hosting the World Cup is very close. It isn't waiting four years to play the World Cup, it was less than two years.

"I am so excited because I think the decision was good, I am enjoying it a lot and I think it's so exciting to discover every single day different things to work on and different emotions. It's a completely different job than in the past, a mystery because it's a completely different world but I think we are really, really enjoying that situation."

'Timing wasn't right for England job'

I suggest to Pochettino that he might have been preparing another nation for those finals if reports after the departure of Sir Gareth Southgate linking him to the England job are to be believed. So was it a possibility?

He pauses for a moment and then says: "It's always about the timing.

"I was talking with my former president Daniel Levy [Tottenham chairman] and he says always football is about timings and he always told me, 'Mauricio, always it's timing'.

"It's true because he has experience in football and it's a privilege to be head coach of the England national team but the timings sometimes are not in the same, in the moment that you can be available like this and this option disappears."

It was of course another former Chelsea head coach, Thomas Tuchel, who got the job but there's a sense that it could have been quite different.

Poch: I want Spurs return one day and still talk to Levy

The mention of Daniel Levy and the pair's relationship took me by surprise. Six years after leaving Tottenham he still cites the club's chairman as a sounding board. That must be a rarity I say to him, and Pochettino looks at me like I am mad.

"Why?" he says, and I remind him, "Because he sacked you."

He replies: "You're talking about two different sides, professional and personal and I've seen always the appreciation in between both.

"He is always there and he's going to be there. It's another thing to take professional decisions. It's true after nearly six years with all that we lived together, it was tough because of all the ups and downs and emotional things that we lived.

"I've seen always it's difficult in football that that doesn't affect all this type of situation in your relationship. For us, we split very well. One thing was professional, another personal and now, like the day after we left Tottenham, we keep always a very, very good relationship."

Does he ever think there's another chapter of that story to go with Spurs? Could he ever see himself back there?

He responds: "Look, when I left the club I always remember one interview I said I would like one day to come back to Tottenham and that is of course," Pochettino pauses and continues, "I am in the USA, I am not going to no, I'm not going to talk about that, but what I said then still after six years or five years, I still feel in my heart that, yes, I would like one day to come back. We see the timing, like Daniel said."

For the moment Ange Postecoglou is the man in charge at Spurs and, after coming through the last-16 tie against AZ Alkmaar, the quarter-finals of the Europa League await.

Pochettino still follows his old side closely and has urged the need for time and trust.

He says: "We suffered something in Chelsea from the beginning when we suffered too many issues and when you don't have your squad you cannot manage this type of thing and it forces you to try to find different ways to approach the team and it is always going to affect your result.

"It's not an excuse because it happened with other teams, but sometimes that happens and you need to trust. I think they start to feel and to recover the path to start to win and then to start to improve in the Premier League."

He understands the frustration of the fans and talks passionately about what has been created at the club - the training ground and the stadium - but it's tangible footballing rewards that he hopes Tottenham can also get to celebrate.

That is perhaps all for something in the future. For the moment the focus is on the World Cup. He thought he had left the "pressure and scrutiny" behind when he departed Chelsea, but only last week FIFA President Gianni Infantino was piling the pressure back on during a visit to the White House to see Donald Trump.

Pochettino smiles and says, "I saw with Infantino, and Infantino said, 'Oh, the USA can win the World Cup'. The President asked, 'Can we win?' Maybe he needs to ask me directly because I don't believe that Infantino can say three, four names of our players."

Pretend I am Trump and I ask you that question. "If he asks me, I say yes," Pochettino admits. "President, with your help, with the fans in behind hosting the World Cup, all is possible."

I did after all say the enthusiasm, confidence and swagger was back.