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Nearly there

Liverpool are just one player away from having a fully fit squad, with Joe Gomez still out.

The versatile defender has been out since suffering a hamstring injury against Plymouth in the FA Cup.

He was expected to be out for the campaign, but Arne Slot is hopeful he might play some part.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Tottenham, he said: "If his recovery goes well, he would be able to in last two games of season but isn't training with us yet. But is getting closer."

Botman returns

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has confirmed a double injury boost for his side ahead of facing Ipswich this weekend.

Howe himself is back in the dugout after being in hospital with pneumonia, and he should have two centre-backs fit.

Fabian Schar limped off near the end of the 4-1 defeat to Aston Villa with what appeared to be a hamstring problem.

However, he is expected to be fine, while he could be joined by Sven Botman.

The Dutchman has endured an injury nightmare since September 2023, but he has trained all week after two knee surgeries.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, he said: "Sven has trained well this week, great to see him back with the group and on the grass. A really big step for him. Fabian, we hope will be okay.”

'Completely new to me'

Liverpool manager Arne Slot was asked about reports regarding Darwin Nunez at his pre-match press conference ahead of Liverpool facing Tottenham this weekend.

A Bola claim that if the striker starts another game for the Reds, they will have to pay Benfica 5 million Euros, which is about £4.2 million.

However, these claims have been denied by the Dutchman, who doesn't appear to know anything about it.

Speaking about the rumoured clause in his pre-match press conference, he said: "Do you always believe what journalists say? Not always? Me neither.

"Sometimes you should, sometimes you shouldn't believe what is written about players.

"It's completely new to me. Normally, a sporting director is judged on players come in, the last, last, last thing he would do is tell me if you play him it would cost us this much… he'd never, never do that.

"He never interferes with the line-up. It might be true, but if a journalist says it, we have to balance it."

Back

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe will be back in the dugout this weekend after recovering from pneumonia.

However, he has admitted that he isn't feeling 100 per cent physically.

But he feels sharp mentally and is ready to lead the team again as the Toon look to make it it into the Champions League.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, he said: "I’m okay, I am not 100% in my body, but 100% in my mind.

"It's been difficult, I tried to take a positive experience from it, it has been a real challenge, your health you take for granted, I certainly did. Been through a range of emotions, I feel like I am on the road to recovery and glad to be back here.

"The care that I received from the NHS was first class. I came back in, and normal service resumed, minus running around, a lot more reserved physically."

So close

Liverpool manager Arne Slot wants full focus from his team as they bid to become Premier League champions.

After Arsenal's 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace in midweek, the Reds need just one point from their remaining games to lift the title.

They are at home this weekend against Tottenham, so it would be fitting if they could do it there.

And that is what Slot wants.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, he said: "It's a big responsibility because we are aware of the fact last time this club won the league it was COVID times.

"Everybody is looking forward to Sunday, but there's still a job to be done, which is one point, that's what we know and hopefully our fans know as well.

"That they support us in best possible was as they have done all season and are aware of fact we still need a point.

"It's a nice game to look forward to."

Pressers, pressers, pressers

It is the Friday before a Premier League gameweek, meaning we have plenty of press conferences.

We also have the added bonus of two FA Cup semi-finals this weekend, so there will be plenty to hear about.

We start with Newcastle United, where Eddie Howe is set to speak to the media after recovering from pneumonia.

The Toon boss spent a few days in hospital and missed three games, including last weekend's 4-1 defeat to Aston Villa.

However, he will be in the dugout this weekend as the Toon take on Ipswich.

We will also hear from Arne Slot this morning.

Liverpool need just one more point to be crowned champions, and they face Tottenham this weekend.

Gunning for the Gunners

Jack Wilshere has tipped Arsenal to beat Paris Saint-Germain and reach the Champions League final.

The Gunners face one of the season's standout teams in the last four of the competition after beating Real Madrid.

Former Arsenal midfielder Wilshere has praised PSG for their quality as well as their manager Luis Enrique.

But he has backed his former club to get the job done over the two legs, with the first coming at home on Tuesday night.

"They've got a really good coach, and so have Arsenal," he said on talkSPORT Drive.

"So what I think you're going to see is two great teams, but two great coaches go against each other.

"You're going to see different tactical battles... Yeah, I fancy Arsenal, as you'd expect, but it will definitely be a tough game.

"I think what PSG have and the threat they have in transition, and attacking moments, we have to be really good defensively, but Arsenal have got a chance."

In demand

Estevao Willian has spoken on why he decided to sign for Chelsea as he prepares for his Premier League move.

The Brazilian teenage sensation will join the Blues this summer from Palmeiras in a move worth around £56million.

Estevao has made four appearances for his country at the age of 18 and is touted as one of the best prospects in South America.

Speaking in The Players' Tribune, the winger reflected on why he agreed to swap Brazil for England and make the move to Chelsea.

"A lot of people are asking me why we chose Chelsea, but they don’t understand how much Chelsea wanted me, and how much belief they have in my potential.

"Those people don’t know about the project they presented to us. To a young player, these things matter a lot, and I know we’ve made the right decision to go to London."

Interest

Simon Jordan has assessed how Oliver Glasner could approach his future at Crystal Palace if Tottenham become interested.

Glasner has been an excellent appointment at Palace and has them preparing for an FA Cup semi-final against Aston Villa on Saturday.

talkSPORT understands Spurs are likely to move on from current boss Ange Postecoglou even if he wins them the Europa League.

Glasner could therefore become of interest to the north London club and former Palace owner Jordan has explained the potential factors involved.

"I mean, it depends who's courting him," he said on White and Jordan.

"If we are to carry on banging the drums about who's going to land at Tottenham Hotspur, then the notion will be that Tottenham Hotspur will be a potential landing spot for Glasner.

"First of all, it depends what contract Palace have got him on in the first place.

"Second of all, it depends how he feels about Crystal Palace in terms of whether he feels he owes them. He's been there, what, just over a year?

"Whether he feels that he owes them some degree of inherent relationship, because they're the ones that gave him this pathway into the Premier League.

"And of course, at the same time, what he can leverage from them. What he can say to Palace is, 'I've got a potential suitor over here', if he indeed has, 'What are you going to give me to maintain me wanting to be at this football club?

"'Because I don't want to tread water, unless I'm going to get some backing, that's what we're going to do.'"

High praise

Ruud van Nistelrooy has called Jamie Vardy the greatest ever player in the history of Leicester City.

The Foxes hero has won the Premier League and FA Cup at the club but will make an emotional exit at the end of the season.

Vardy has scored 198 goals in 496 appearances and his manager Van Nistelrooy believes he takes top spot in club folklore.

"Fair to say he is the best player ever to play for this football club. The most impact on all the successes that they have had over the past 13 years.

"He is four games away from 500 games for the football club, two goals from 200 goals for football club, those figures say a lot.

"When you put silverware next to them, then you have a complete picture. His farewell is above anything.

"He deserves all the credit and honour possible from the club towards him, the squad towards him, the supporters towards him and all people who love football towards him."

Patience

Legendary goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has urged Manchester United to give Andre Onana confidence and time at Old Trafford.

Onana has faced two difficult seasons at the club since signing from Inter Milan in 2023 and was dropped earlier in the month.

The goalkeeper missed the 4-1 defeat at Newcastle but returned to face Lyon in the Europa League.

And Van der Sar, who worked with goalkeeper Onana at Ajax, thinks that United could have a great talent if he's given the time.

"We had Andre for four or five years at Ajax, he did a tremendous job for us from a young boy, coming from Barcelona, we got him.

"He played really, really well for us and he deservedly got a great transfer to Inter Milan.

"Played in the Champions League final, moved to Manchester United, and sometimes it's not easy to get there and play in a different league, a different style of football.

"But I know his quality, I trained with him, I've seen him, mentally he's also strong, so give him the confidence, give him the time and from next year, I'm sure they'll have a top, top Premier League goalkeeper in Andre Onana."

Stateside?

Peter Schmeichel believes Jamie Vardy moving to the United States would be the 'natural thing to do'.

Vardy will leave Leicester City at the end of the season after 13 years at the club.

talkSPORT understands that he already has offers from the MLS, and legendary goalkeeper Schmeichel feels it could be a good fit.

"Everything comes to an end," he said on White and Jordan.

"The season they've had, the statement he put out the other day was very, very strong-worded, it's probably exactly how he felt.

"It doesn't matter who you are, every good thing comes to an end and Jamie Vardy's time at Leicester has ended.

"I just heard there, that you were saying he might go to America, which is kind of like a natural thing to do."

Limited

Kieran McKenna says Ipswich Town face availability issues ahead of a weekend in which they look set to be relegated.

The Tractor Boys are 18th and 15 points adrift of safety ahead of their last five matches of the season.

Ipswich are away to Newcastle on Saturday knowing that defeat or a draw would send them back down to the Championship.

And McKenna appears to be struggling for names as they prepare for the trip to St. James' Park.

"We are in a challenging spot in terms of availability," he said in his press conference.

"I am not going to go through every single one because I will probably be naming the fit players that we have left to Newcastle, but we are in a really difficult spot in terms of availability.

"We are working really hard to get a team and a squad together that can go there and be as competitive as we can be.

"Where the squad is at the moment, there will be young players involved from the academy at the weekend and possibly in the next few weeks, and that is good experience for them."

'Great to see him around'

Mark Noble has offered a positive update on West Ham striker Michail Antonio.

Antonio has been sidelined since December following a horrifying car crash in which he suffered a broken leg.

The 35-year-old has insisted he will play again, with West Ham legend and sporting director Noble hopeful of a return to the pitch.

"To be honest, if you look at him, he's a freak of nature. I mean, how he got out of that car in the first place," he told talkSPORT.

"But I saw him yesterday at the training ground and he's walking about freely, he's in the gym doing stuff.

"So, I think Antonio's realised that he's a very lucky boy to walk away and he accepts that, but it's just great to see him around, he's such a good character."

When asked if West Ham's plan is to get Antonio back, Noble said: "I think for himself, just to get back. If he can play at some sort, then fantastic.

"But I think he's still got a lot of rehab to do with the injury he got but as I say, just to actually see him here and being with the boys is great."

Vil your boots

Aston Villa has announced plans to redevelop Villa Park and increase the capacity of the ground to 50,000.

The approach to the expansion means that the ground's current 42,918 capacity will not decrease during construction, and fans will not lose any seats during the season.

Aston Villa executive chairman Nassef Sawiris said: “Since Wes and I became owners of this storied club in 2018 and [investment company] Atairos joined us as partners in 2024, we have shared a clear ambition: to restore Aston Villa to its rightful position competing at the highest levels of English and European football, and to transform the club into a global brand and European powerhouse.

"Thanks to the mayor’s commitment to develop Witton Station and to improve local transport links, this project will mark an important milestone in the club’s journey to becoming a world-class sports and entertainment venue.

"A bigger, better North Stand will not only allow many more Villans to see their team in person, improving matchday experience, but will also dramatically improve the club's ability to invest and compete in the long term."

Ruud awakening

Leicester City manager Ruud van Nistelrooy says he is still waiting to find out if he will keep his job following the club's relegation.

The Foxes have earned just eight points from 20 matches under the Dutchman, who signed a three-year deal in November.

Van Nistelrooy oversaw two wins over Leicester as Manchester United's interim manager earlier this season - the same amount of Premier League victories the club have experienced under him.

He arrived at the King Power Stadium following the sacking of Steve Cooper after just 157 days in charge.

However, their 1-0 defeat to Liverpool last weekend confirmed their second relegation in three seasons.

It also set a top-flight record as the ninth consecutive Premier League home game without scoring a goal.

Van Nistelrooy said he has sat down with the owners and the board and told them 'how we move forward as a club'.

"I know what my plan is to bring the club back, but I am waiting on alignment," the Man United legend added.

"The quicker the better for the football club."

Jor dropping

Saudi billionaire Turki Alalshikh is plotting a blockbuster purchase of an English football club, talkSPORT’s Simon Jordan has revealed.

Jordan, who himself is no stranger to football ownership following his stint in charge of Crystal Palace, had been linked with a takeover of Championship side Sheffield Wednesday.

However, the talkSPORT host quickly poured cold water on those suggestions before revealing the details of recent discussions with Alalshikh.

The latter is the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority in Saudi Arabia and is worth a rumoured £2.14billion.

He told White and Jordan: “I had the same conversation, without being too indiscreet, with Turki Alalshikh, because they are looking around at other things to do.

“Whilst I would prefer English clubs to be owned by English people because I’ve got a great pride in my own country, that ship has sailed, that horse has bolted.

“So when I’m asked by these guys ‘what English football club would you advocate for us to buy?’ I said if you’re not going to buy one of the legacy clubs of which there’s three in this country – Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United – the next one down the rank is Tottenham, see if you can get a deal out of Daniel [Levy] for that because that’s a spaceship that needs a new captain.

“If I was buying a football club and I was really motivated and had your kind of dough, I would buy Sheffield Wednesday.”

'Wears his heart on his sleeve'

West Ham manager Graham Potter has been discussing Niclas Fullkrug's comments ahead of facing his former club Brighton this weekend.

After a 1-1 draw with Southampton at the London Stadium, the German international took part in an honest post-match interview.

In the interview, he criticised his teammates' desire, and Potter has now responded to those quotes.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, he said: "Sometimes, you have to understand that after a game everyone's emotional. It should be that way, but when you're a leader, you have to accept the emotion and put things in perspective.

"There may be various factors, and that can also play on players' minds. Together, we have to work and find solutions, and give the fans something better.

"Niclas wears his heart on his sleeve, and he's entitled to his opinion. For me, it's better to have conversations in private. You have to be able to be honest, and to think about the team as well.

"I'm very supportive of the players. I understand it's tough, and we have to demand more, but fundamentally I want to help them."

Mour bang for your buck

As Daniel Farke's future at Leeds is questioned, Jose Mourinho has been tipped as a potential replacement.

Mourinho, who started managing Fenerbache in June 2024 after two seasons at Chelsea and stints at Manchester United and Tottenham, has previously hinted at his willingness to return to British football.

However, instead of a fifth season in the Premier League, the Special One expressed interest in managing in Scotland.

The former Chelsea manager said that a tenure at the helm of Celtic or Rangers could motivate him in the future.

But talkSPORT host Alan Brazil believes that Mourinho would rather join Leeds over a stint at a Scottish team.

"Mourinho, would he go in at one of the three that are coming up?" said Brazil on talkSPORT Breakfast.

Co-host Sam Ellard responded: "Mourinho has been linked with Leeds."

"You tell me that he [Mourinho] would fancy Rangers ahead of Leeds? No chance. He'd want Leeds," continued Brazil.

Ellard agreed: "He'd take a way back to the Premier League. Every day of the week."

School of Vard knocks

Jamie Vardy himself has confirmed the news that he will leave Leicester with an emotional message on his Instagram.

However, tellingly, the 38-year-old left one notable omission from his list of thanks - the club's much-maligned director of football, Jon Rudkin.

Vardy paid tribute to the late former Leicester City Chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, his successor and son, Aiyawatt 'Top' Srivaddhanaprabha, Foxes CEO Susan Whelan, his former managers, teammates, and, of course, the fans.

The ex-England international said: “Gutted that this day has come, but I knew it was going to come eventually.

“I've had 13 unbelievable years at this club with lots of success, some downs, but the majority all highs. It's finally time to call it a day, which I am devastated about.

“But I think the timing is right, just wanna sincerely thank you all for taking me in as one of your own.

“Leicester will always have a massive place in my heart, and I'll make sure that I'll be following for years to come in what I hope will be even more success for the club.

“But as for now, this is my goodbye, but you will see me again, I promise.”

Party pooper

The Jamie Vardy party has finally come to an end!

The iconic Leicester striker has confirmed he will leave King Power Stadium at the end of the season after a trophy-laden 13 years.

talkSPORT understands the striker already has offers from the MLS after Leicester failed to offer him a new deal.

Vardy, who led the side to the 2016 Premier League title, is closing in on 500 appearances for the Foxes.

The 38-year-old joined Leicester for £1million from Fleetwood Town in 2012 and has since been the face of the club's golden era.

Vardy, who is Leicester's third-highest goal scorer and appearance-maker, won the Premier League, FA Cup, Community Shield and is a double Championship winner during his tenure in the East Midlands.

The ex-England international's final game at King Power Stadium will be on Sunday, 18 May against Ipswich Town.

Leicester City Chairman, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, told the club's website: “Jamie is unique.

“He is a special player and an even more special person. He holds a place in the hearts of everyone connected to Leicester City, and he certainly has my deepest respect and affection.

“I am endlessly grateful for everything he has given to this Football Club.

“Although Jamie’s time with us as a player is ending, he and his family will always be welcomed back to King Power Stadium with open arms after all he has achieved. On behalf of everyone at Leicester City, I wish Jamie and his family the very best for the future, and I know our supporters will join us in giving him the send-off he deserves at the end of this season.”

Vardy himself confirmed the news with an emotional message on his Instagram.

Rush hour

Brighton goalkeeper Carl Rushworth is amongst the options being explored by Manchester United, talkSPORT understands.

United need to strengthen their goalkeeping department this summer, with veteran Tom Heaton and Altay Bayindir both expected to leave.

Brighton value Rushworth in excess of £5million, and the 23-year-old is expected to push for a move after finding his route to the first team blocked by the form of Bart Verbruggen.

Rushworth, who spent the first half of the season on loan at Hull, is also being tracked by West Ham and believes he is ready to play in the Premier League.

Ange Postecoglou could still deliver European glory for Tottenham this season, but his future beyond that is far from certain.

It has been a testing season for the Australian in north London, whose Spurs side sit a lowly 16th in the Premier League table after their 2-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest on Monday.

The loss was Tottenham's 18th this term, taking them to within just one of their all-time record of 19 - set in the 1993/94 and 2003/04 campaigns.

And their poor domestic form has put Postecoglou under increasing pressure, despite guiding his side to the semi-finals of the Europa League, where they will play Bodo/Glimt.

talkSPORT understands Spurs are likely to move on from the 59-year-old, even if he wins them the competition.

Several names have been touted as candidates to succeed Postecoglou, including recently-promoted Burnley boss Scott Parker, while chairman Daniel Levy is believed to be an admirer of Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna.

With all eyes on the Aussie, talkSPORT.com has taken a look at the favourites to take over at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Scott Parker

Former Spurs midfielder Parker recently found his name thrown into the hat for the would-be vacancy by talkSPORT's Jamie O'Hara.

Speaking on The Sports Bar, his ex-Tottenham teammate said :“I think I’d like Scott Parker at Tottenham, I think there’s something about him.

“I’ve worked with Scott, I’ve been in the dressing room with him and he is top drawer, he is a top bloke.

“His speeches are great, he was a brilliant captain, I’ve seen him as a Burnley manager and I like what he’s about.”

The Burnley head coach won promotion to the Premier League for the third time in his coaching career over the weekend, doing so having conceded just 15 goals in 44 matches.

With Postecoglou coming under fire for his lack of defensive strategy, the 44-year-old's pragmatic approach could be welcome at Spurs.

Despite his impressive record in the Championship, previously guiding Fulham and Bournemouth to the top-flight in 2020 and 2022, Parker's Premier League record is less convincing.

He is yet to finish a full campaign after promotion, departing the Cottagers in 2021 after their relegation back to the second tier, while he was sacked by the Cherries just four games into the 2022/23 season.

Kieran McKenna

Despite a tough season with Ipswich, McKenna is held in high regard at Spurs.

talkSPORT understands chief decision maker Levy is an admirer of the Northern Irishman, who previously spent seven years in north London as a youth team player, later returning as an academy coach.

After a three-year stint as assistant manager at Manchester United, McKenna got his big break when he was appointed as the Tractor Boys boss in November 2021, who were in League One at the time.

In his first full season in charge, the 38-year-old guided the club to a second-place finish to earn promotion to the Championship.

He followed this up with an even more impressive 2023/24 campaign as Ipswich finished as runners-up in the second-tier to seal their return to the Premier League after a 22-year absence.

McKenna's heroics saw him named the Championship Manager of the Season, but he has had a much harder time of things this term.

With five games left to play, his side sit on the brink of relegation from the top-flight, but they have earned plaudits for being competitive in the majority of their games, which cannot be said of confirmed relegated sides Southampton and Leicester.

Andoni Iraola

Bournemouth boss Iraola is another candidate high on Tottenham's list of potential replacements for Postecoglou.

In March, talkSPORT reported that the Spanish coach would be Levy's top target to take charge at the club, having impressed since his arrival at the Vitality Stadium in 2023.

After guiding the Cherries to a 12th-place finish in his debut season in English football, Iraola has taken his side to another level this term, who are well in the hunt for European qualification.

Bournemouth currently sit eighth in the Premier League table, with a place in either of next season's Europa Conference League or Europa League a real possibility depending on the performance of English sides in Europe this season.

And it isn't just in England where Iraola has impressed, having also won promotion to LaLiga with Rayo Vallecano in 2021, before keeping them up in each of the following two seasons in the top-flight.

With the 42-year-old combining results with an entertaining brand of football, Spurs could well see him as the man to take them forward.

Thomas Frank

Brentford head coach Frank is also believed to be on Levy's future managers shortlist, although his hefty release clause may put Spurs off.

After taking charge of the Bees in 2018, the Dane has taken the club from strength to strength, guiding them to the Premier League for the first time in the club's history in 2021.

Since then, he has cemented himself as one of the league's most impressive head coaches, having successfully kept the west London side in the top-flight.

Brentford remain in with an outside chance of European qualification this season, currently occupying 11th place in the league table.

Frank has found his name in the hat for a number of top jobs, previously being linked with the Man United vacancy in November.

He has also refused to rule out moving to a bigger club, telling talkSPORT 'I'm open' in October with regards to his future.

Marco Silva

It is a similar story for Fulham manager Silva, who is thought to be among the main targets drawn up by Tottenham, but also has a sizeable release clause.

The Portuguese coach boasts more experience in English football than his fellow candidates, with the Cottagers his fourth club on these shores.

After impressing with Hull and Watford in the Championship, Silva got his break in the Premier League with Everton in 2018.

Although the move didn't quite go according to plan, with the 47-year-old receiving his marching orders less than two years later, he has rebuilt his reputation at Craven Cottage.

After his appointment in 2021, Silva won promotion back to the top-flight in his first season in charge, going on to re-establish Fulham as a Premier League side in the years since.

After 10th and 13th place finishes in the last two seasons, the Whites are also in with a shot of European football next term.

They currently sit ninth in the league table, just a point behind Iraola's Bournemouth.

Viddal Riley and Chev Clarke will meet in a north London derby fight on Saturday night, which is going under the radar.

Riley, a supporter of Tottenham Hotspur, is relishing the opportunity to fight at the club's huge 60,000 stadium on the Chris Eubank Jr vs Conor Benn undercard.

But it will be an extra special opportunity given he will meet fellow Briton Clarke, an avid supporter of Spurs' arch rivals Arsenal.

A north London derby is always filled with passion, fireworks and confrontations and is a standout moment on the sporting calendar.

And Riley and Clarke will deliver that in the cruiserweight encounter, with the famous British title on the line.

Of course, fans will largely be flocking in their thousands to catch a glimpse of the main event between Eubank Jr and Benn.

But in an exclusive chat with talkSPORT.com, he explained how their showdown could well take the limelight on the hallowed turf.

He said: "Yeah it hasn't been promoted as much as it could have been.

"We definitely have the potential to steal the show. Two fighters itching to win.

"Chev is coming into it off of a defeat. He will not want to feel two losses in a row.

"I've never lost and I don't want to feel it. He's also a champion and wants to keep his belt.

"There's a lot at stake, and the fight will finally kill the suspense and I will show I'm the better fighter."

Riley is a superb talent, having emerged as a professional in 2018 and impressing in the Floyd Mayweather gym.

He signed with the boxing legend's promotion but the COVID pandemic caused havoc to his career.

After spending a time with his profile skyrocketing on the back of involvement with YouTuber-turned-boxer KSI, he signed with BOXXER.

His career has moved through the gears, and he will now be fighting for the Lonsdale belt for the first time.

Clarke himself is on the back of a surprise defeat to Leonardo Mosquea, and is looking to bounce back in style.

But there is an extra spite he has never felt before on the contest, given the rivalry of their respective clubs.

And the Tottenham born native believes the football rivalry adds an extra layer to the intriguing contest.

He continued: "That's just some nice extra seasoning on the event.

"He's coming to the Tottenham stadium as an Arsenal fan, as the champion.

"But on this occasion Spurs will win. This was always on my bucket list to fight here.

"I always linked it to a world title fight, to have that opportunity come around now is destiny."

It promises to be a huge night for Riley, who can continue his unbeaten run.

Victory will see him pushed on to the stage to begin to take a route to a world title.

Manchester United and Tottenham have seemingly sacrificed their Premier League standings in pursuit of Europa League glory.

The two clubs are three wins away from a backdoor entrance into the Champions League next season via UEFA's secondary competition.

Man United and Tottenham are both in separate Europa semi-finals, with the potential to meet to contest the trophy next month.

In addition to winning silverware, the two teams are desperate for the Champions League riches that come with qualification, with United standing to neta tidy £85.8million windfall.

Doing so via their final Premier League position is impossible, with United down in 14th, two spots above struggling Spurs.

All focus has been on Europe recently, with the Red Devils enduring three defeats and a draw from their past four domestic games.

Similarly, Tottenham's only Premier League win since the end of February has been at home to relegated Southampton.

In contrast, the race to secure Champions League football couldn't be any closer, with just four points separating seventh and third.

However, could a Europa League win mean that one of those slots are snatched up by either Man United or Tottenham?

How many Premier League teams can be in the Champions League?

Arsenal's win over Real Madrid meant that the top five Premier League teams will qualify for next season's Champions League.

That will be extended to as many as SIX clubs should either Manchester United or Tottenham win this year's Europa League.

That is because both the Red Devils and Spurs will finish outside the top five, with the Champions League slot reserved for the winners of UEFA's second tournament separate from domestic allocation.

It'll come as a huge boost to the likes of Man City, Nottingham Forest, Newcastle, Chelsea, and Aston Villa.

The performances of Premier League sides in all of UEFA’s competitions this season ensured England are guaranteed a top-two spot in UEFA's association club coefficient rankings, thus being one of two countries to gain an extra Champions League spot.

Liverpool are the only side guaranteed to play in the top tournament next season as they can't finish any lower than third.

Newcastle's Carabao Cup triumph over the Reds means the Toon have secured a spot in the Conference League at least for 2025/26.

Should the Magpies qualify for the Champions League or Europa League via their league position, then their place in the third tier will be transferred to the next-highest Premier League side who have not qualified for Europe.

Likewise, this rule will also apply to City, Forest, and Villa should they earn a Europa League spot by winning the FA Cup, but secure a top-five Premier League finish.

When is the Europa League final?

The 2025 Europa League final will take place on Wednesday, May 21.

It is being held at San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, Spain - home of Athletic Bilbao.

Kick-off is currently scheduled for 8pm.

Broadcast details for the final are yet to be confirmed, but it is likely to be shown live on TNT Sports in the UK.

talkSPORT and talkSPORT.com will also be on hand for all the latest news and build-up.

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

It's nearly party time on Merseyside, and if Liverpool avoid defeat to Tottenham this Sunday, they will be crowned champions.

The Reds have dominated this season and will win their second Premier League crown and 20th overall top-flight title if they get a point against Spurs.

Even if they were to lose every match from now until the end of the year, Arsenal would need to win all of their matches and overhaul the ten-goal difference.

Now, we've seen strange things happen, but it does feel like it's a matter of when and not if Liverpool become champions.

They would love to do it this weekend at Anfield in front of what should be a raucous crowd.

For Spurs, they will try and avoid their 19th league defeat of the season before looking ahead to the Europa League semi-final against Bodo/Glimt.

Liverpool vs Tottenham: Party time

If Liverpool avoid defeat on Sunday, they will be crowned Premier League champions.

The Reds have been the best team in the division this season, with other sides unable to live with their consistency.

The fact they've all but wrapped up the title before facing Arsenal a second time is a testament to Arne Slot.

When he arrived, the expectation was that Liverpool would end up in the top four but were unlikely to challenge for the title.

But they've achieved way more than that, and the Reds deserve immense credit.

Liverpool are unbeaten in their last 15 home games against Tottenham in all competitions (W11 D4), winning the last three while scoring four goals each time.

Tottenham have won just two of their last 24 Premier League games against Liverpool (D6 L16), with both victories coming at home. They’ve also failed to keep a clean sheet in any of their last 18 against the Reds in the competition.

Tottenham have conceded 10 goals against Liverpool this season, losing 6-3 in the Premier League and 4-0 in the League Cup semi-final second leg. They last conceded more against an opponent in 2013-14 (11 vs Man City), while the most they’ve conceded is 14 (vs Chelsea in 2001-02).

Liverpool vs Tottenham: Team news

The hosts only have one injury concern and that is Joe Gomez.

Everyone else is fit, and it will be interesting to see if Trent Alexander-Arnold starts.

The England international is set to join Real Madrid this summer, so Conor Bradley could keep his place.

Ange Postecoglou could decide to rest players ahead of the Europa League semi-final.

As a result, Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven and Dominic Solanke might all start on the bench.

Radu Dragusin is out for the season with an ACL injury, and Heung-min Son has a foot issue.

Tottenham (37) are 42 points behind Liverpool (79) coming into this match. It’s the second highest number of points Spurs have been behind a side they’re facing – they were 43 behind Arsenal when they met at White Hart Lane in April 2004, with the Gunners securing the title against them that day.

With five games remaining, Liverpool have already won as many Premier League games this season as they did last term (24), while victory in this game would also see them equal their points tally from last season (82) with four games to go.

Tottenham have lost 18 Premier League games this season, only losing more in 1993-94 and 2003-04 (19 both times).

Liverpool vs Tottenham: What has been said?

With Alexander-Arnold set to leave Liverpool, Jamie Carragher believes he shouldn't start another game for the Reds.

He said: "If Trent hasn't committed, which he hasn't obviously, to the manager for next season, he shouldn't be starting games. He shouldn't be.

"In Conor Bradley, you've got a young player.

"It's not like we're talking about a 27, 28-year-old, talking about a young player who had a tough 15, 20 minutes at the start of the game, and that's part of becoming an experienced player.

"I went through that in certain games, Gary [Neville], who's commentating, would have gone through situations like that. It's not about, 'Let's give Trent a send-off.'

"It's about, 'Okay, we need to assess whether Conor Bradley is the guy for us next season playing week in, week out.'"

Liverpool have scored at least once in each of their last 29 Premier League games, since a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest in September. It’s the second longest scoring streak in a single campaign, after Arsenal who scored in all 38 games in 2001-02.

Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has scored 15 goals against Tottenham Hotspur in all competitions, only netting more against Manchester United (16) in his European club career. 11 of those 15 goals have come in the Premier League, with only Alan Shearer (14) netting more against Spurs in the competition.

If he plays it will be Luis Díaz’s 100th Premier League appearance. He would be the 60th player to reach this milestone for Liverpool, the third most of any club after Arsenal (70) and Chelsea (63).

Richarlison has scored in four of his last five Premier League appearances (4 goals), though Tottenham have lost all four of these games. Indeed, only Matheus Cunha (5) has scored in more defeats than Richarlison this term.

Liverpool vs Tottenham: Date and how to follow

This Premier League game is set to take place on Sunday, April 27.

Kick-off at Anfield is scheduled for 4:30pm.

The match will be shown on Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League.

Sky Go customers will be able to stream the action on their laptops or mobile devices.

Alternatively, supporters can purchase a NOW TV pass. More information here.

talkSPORT will have updates throughout the afternoon.

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

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

Back to the Premier League with Burnley, Scott Parker has now been touted for a return to Tottenham.

The former Spurs midfielder made the jump from the Championship for the third time in his coaching career, and has done so with an astonishing defensive record.

That’s some contrast to former club Tottenham, who look very likely to part ways with incumbent Ange Postecoglou who has the team in 16th - two places above the relegation zone.

talkSPORT understands that Spurs are likely to move on from Postecoglou even if he wins them the Europa League.

Discussing Parker’s impressive achievements at Burnley, former Spurs teammate and still huge fan of the club Jamie O’Hara threw the Clarets’ bosses hat in at his old club.

“He’s been there, they know him, he’s produced a coach there and done a really good job as a player,” the talkSPORT host began.

“I think I’d like Scott Parker at Tottenham, I think there’s something about him.

“I’ve worked with Scott, I’ve been in the dressing room with him and he is top drawer, he is a top bloke.

“His speeches are great, he was a brilliant captain, I’ve seen him as a Burnley manager and I like what he’s about.”

Parker returned to the dugout in the summer of 2024 at Turf Moor and has achieved instant promotion with a miserly 15 goals conceded in 44 games, 14 fewer than any other team.

The 44-year-old had been out of the game for over a year after a disastrous stint at Belgian Pro League side Club Brugge, but has continued where he left off in England.

Parker already took Fulham and Bournemouth up from the Championship, but in the Premier League things haven’t gone so well as he’s yet to finish a full campaign after promotion.

Asked if it was too early for the step up to a European regular, O’Hara said: “His football I like, his identity I like, is it a step too far? Maybe it’s early doors, maybe it’s early, but maybe he needs the platform at a club like Tottenham.

“I don’t think they can [do worse than this season]. I think he’d be alright. I wouldn’t mind him.”

With Spurs well on course for their worst season since 1977, it’s no surprise that replacements for Postecoglou are already being discussed.

The Australian still has a chance of silverware in the semi-finals of the Europa League against Bodo/Glimt, but questions over his future clearly won’t be going anywhere.

talkSPORT understands that chairman and decision maker Daniel Levy is an admirer of another promotion expert - Kieran McKenna, who took Ipswich from League One to the top flight in consecutive seasons.

Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola is also high on Levy's list, while Marco Silva and Thomas Frank, of Fulham and Brentford respectively, are other potential targets but both have hefty release clauses in their contracts.

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."