Lennart Johansson, a Swede who presided over European soccer for 17 years as its new <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-beat-tottenham-to-win-champions-league-final-223520&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwio06iKjdLiAhVKPY8KHWk1B5wQFjAEegQICBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Yo7lJCURncK_-f2z_Q5Af">Champions League</a> turned into a global commercial juggernaut, has died after a short illness aged 89, Sweden's Football Association said on Wednesday.

Johansson, president of European football association UEFA from 1990 to 2007, was a driving force behind the formation of the Champions League, giving the continent's top club competition a new identity, a catchy anthem and worldwide reach.

His reign saw huge revenue streams flow into the continent's big clubs, turning Manchester United, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/valencia-knock-barcelona-off-copa-del-rey-throne-221707&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj-08v1jNLiAhVLnI8KHUvkDHQQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1VEPs7YODRHk5DKYn_yByd">Barcelona</a>, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and others into multi-billion dollar enterprises, and their players into global megastars.

"World football will always be grateful to him for all he has achieved for the beautiful game," UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin said in a statement.

The Swedish FA said Swedish football was in mourning.

Johansson took over the top job in European football at a turbulent time when money from television coverage was flooding into the sport and players gained complete freedom to move between countries and clubs in Europe.

"It was not a given that UEFA would be successful in meeting all these dramatic changes," the Swedish FA said.

"The Champions League became an enormous success, but Lennart Johansson's other major achievement was finding a fragile balance between the big clubs' demands and the needs of the broader football family," SFA added.

Johansson ran against Swiss Sepp Blatter to head football's world governing body FIFA in an acrimonious vote in 1998 but lost.

Blatter, who led FIFA for 17 years, is now serving a six-year ban from football for unethical conduct.

The men remained rivals. The Swedish FA quoted Johansson as saying,&nbsp;"It is my 20-year fight with Blatter that people like."

Blatter's successor at <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-stick-with-32-teams-for-2022-football-world-cup-in-qatar-220740&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjj8LSbjdLiAhUKknAKHVeMB0kQFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw35byZJ6mfMoeY7klN_IHnK">FIFA</a>, Gianni Infantino, who worked earlier in his career under Johansson at UEFA, called the Swede "a friend and an invaluable source of wisdom and inspiration".

"Lennart has always been a role model of professionalism and, more importantly, of humanity," he said.

In 2007, Johansson stepped down as UEFA president after being beaten in an election by former France international Michel Platini.

Johansson was given the title honorary president, a role which he took seriously, even attending meetings in his wheelchair.

Johansson was a lifelong supporter and honorary president of Stockholm club AIK.

Lennart Johansson, a Swede who presided over European soccer for 17 years as its new Champions League turned into a global commercial juggernaut, has died after a short illness aged 89, Sweden's Football Association said on Wednesday.

Lennart Johansson, a Swede who presided over European soccer for 17 years as its new Champions League turned into a global commercial juggernaut, has died after a short illness aged 89, Sweden's Football Association said on Wednesday. Johansson, president of European football association UEFA from 1990 to 2007, was a driving force behind the formation of the Champions League, giving the continent's top club competition a new identity, a catchy anthem and worldwide reach. His reign saw huge revenue streams flow into the continent's big clubs, turning Manchester United, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and others into multi-billion dollar enterprises, and their players into global megastars. "World football will always be grateful to him for all he has achieved for the beautiful game," UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin said in a statement. The Swedish FA said Swedish football was in mourning. Johansson took over the top job in European football at a turbulent time when money from television coverage was flooding into the sport and players gained complete freedom to move between countries and clubs in Europe. "It was not a given that UEFA would be successful in meeting all these dramatic changes," the Swedish FA said. "The Champions League became an enormous success, but Lennart Johansson's other major achievement was finding a fragile balance between the big clubs' demands and the needs of the broader football family," SFA added. Johansson ran against Swiss Sepp Blatter to head football's world governing body FIFA in an acrimonious vote in 1998 but lost. Blatter, who led FIFA for 17 years, is now serving a six-year ban from football for unethical conduct. The men remained rivals. The Swedish FA quoted Johansson as saying, "It is my 20-year fight with Blatter that people like." Blatter's successor at FIFA, Gianni Infantino, who worked earlier in his career under Johansson at UEFA, called the Swede "a friend and an invaluable source of wisdom and inspiration". "Lennart has always been a role model of professionalism and, more importantly, of humanity," he said. In 2007, Johansson stepped down as UEFA president after being beaten in an election by former France international Michel Platini. Johansson was given the title honorary president, a role which he took seriously, even attending meetings in his wheelchair. Johansson was a lifelong supporter and honorary president of Stockholm club AIK.

Former UEFA boss Lennart Johansson, father of the Champions League, dies aged 89

Tottenham Hotspur coach Mauricio Pochettino underlined the difficulties his side have faced to reach Saturday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/silverware-is-priority-for-liverpool-says-alexander-arnold-ahead-of-champions-league-final-against-tottenham-223223">Champions League final against Liverpool</a>, whilst admitting fortune has favoured his team on their journey.

Spurs sneaked into the knockout stages of the competition with only eight points from six games and had to rely on Inter Milan failing to beat PSV Eindhoven in the final game to progress.

They benefited from a marginal offside call against Manchester City's Raheem Sterling in the quarter-finals after a VAR review and survived an onslaught in both semi-final games with Ajax Amsterdam before Lucas Moura's decisive goal in the fifth minute of added time completed a stunning 3-2 win.

"It shows the team's character and the competitiveness but we have walked a thin line and things could have changed for us but for tiny margins," Pochettino told a news conference on Friday at Atletico Madrid's Wanda Metropolitano stadium.

"If it wasn't for VAR or our goal against Ajax we wouldn't be here. Analysis is always unfair, the result has too big an influence on it, and we are described as phenomenal for getting here but if we hadn't people would have said we were the worst."

The Argentine, who has led <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenhams-danny-rose-never-imagined-reaching-champions-league-final-222555">Tottenham </a>to their first final in Europe's elite competition, recalled the other struggles his team have had to contend with this year, from not adding to their squad to the repeated delays to finishing their stadium.

"The team became very strong 10 months ago, we couldn't sign any players and we decided not to sell anyone. We had to continue playing at Wembley, we couldn't move into our stadium until the end," he said.

"We also had so many players in the World Cup semi-finals. But all this has made us better and more creative. It shows that if you believe and work hard you get your reward. The fact we got through on tiny margins was the fruit of our belief and determination,"&nbsp;Pochettino said.

Tottenham Hotspur coach Mauricio Pochettino underlined the difficulties his side have faced to reach Saturday's Champions League final against Liverpool, whilst admitting fortune has favoured his team on their journey.

Tottenham Hotspur coach Mauricio Pochettino underlined the difficulties his side have faced to reach Saturday's Champions League final against Liverpool, whilst admitting fortune has favoured his team on their journey. Spurs sneaked into the knockout stages of the competition with only eight points from six games and had to rely on Inter Milan failing to beat PSV Eindhoven in the final game to progress. They benefited from a marginal offside call against Manchester City's Raheem Sterling in the quarter-finals after a VAR review and survived an onslaught in both semi-final games with Ajax Amsterdam before Lucas Moura's decisive goal in the fifth minute of added time completed a stunning 3-2 win. "It shows the team's character and the competitiveness but we have walked a thin line and things could have changed for us but for tiny margins," Pochettino told a news conference on Friday at Atletico Madrid's Wanda Metropolitano stadium. "If it wasn't for VAR or our goal against Ajax we wouldn't be here. Analysis is always unfair, the result has too big an influence on it, and we are described as phenomenal for getting here but if we hadn't people would have said we were the worst." The Argentine, who has led Tottenham to their first final in Europe's elite competition, recalled the other struggles his team have had to contend with this year, from not adding to their squad to the repeated delays to finishing their stadium. "The team became very strong 10 months ago, we couldn't sign any players and we decided not to sell anyone. We had to continue playing at Wembley, we couldn't move into our stadium until the end," he said. "We also had so many players in the World Cup semi-finals. But all this has made us better and more creative. It shows that if you believe and work hard you get your reward. The fact we got through on tiny margins was the fruit of our belief and determination," Pochettino said.

Mauricio Pochettino believes fortune has favoured Tottenham to reach Champions League final

Inter Milan on Friday announced the appointment of former Italy manager Antonio Conte as coach with the ambition of returning to the top of world football.

The 49-year-old has signed a three-year contract worth nine million euros ($10 million) plus bonuses, according to press reports.

He replaces Luciano Spalletti who secured Chinese-owned Inter's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenhams-danny-rose-never-imagined-reaching-champions-league-final-222555&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwji6Le8jcXiAhWBKY8KHexuCx0QFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1i4p9kDdLt_v-bXir-QeiQ">Champions League</a> berth for a second consecutive year on the final day of the Serie A season last Sunday.

With the 18-time Serie A champions searching for a first trophy since the Coppa Italia in 2011, Conte boasts a powerful pedigree.

He won the first three of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-hits-600th-club-goal-as-juventus-hold-inter-milan-214063&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjro9OjjcXiAhUGOSsKHXAXAO0QFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw36cyqJn4Rv9T9FPcv0_n5-">Juventus'</a> eight straight Serie A titles and the Premier League and FA Cup as Chelsea boss.

"A new chapter is opening in my life. I can't wait. I have chosen Inter because of the club it is, for its plans and ambition," Conte said.

Inter chairman Steve Wang added,&nbsp;"I am sure Antonio Conte is one of the best coaches.

"I am sure he will help us to reach our target ... to make this club one of the best in the world again," Wang said.

Conte had also been linked with a return to champions Juventus, after his successor in Turin Massimiliano Allegri was removed.

Spalletti took over at Inter in mid-2017 having previously coached Zenit Saint Petersburg and Roma.

But it proved a season of highs and lows with the club eliminated at the group stage of the Champions League in which they were drawn with Barcelona and Tottenham.

They fell in the last 16 of the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/chelse-lift-the-europa-league-cup-as-hazard-scores-twice-as-parting-gift-222736&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiCn73JjcXiAhVCVXwKHTz6ASsQFjAAegQIBhAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw1vVLJIMZd-I6NokNpgrrfP">Europa League</a>.

Inter snatched fourth place, equal on points with Atalanta, but behind the side from Bergamo on head-to-head difference, to edge city rivals AC Milan by just one point in the race for elite European football.

Inter announced Spalletti's departure on Thursday with Zhang paying tribute to the 60-year-old who paid for failing to lift any silverware.

"A coach, a teacher, a friend," Zhang wrote on Instagram with a photo of himself alongside Spalletti.

Inter Milan on Friday announced the appointment of former Italy manager Antonio Conte as coach with the ambition of returning to the top of world football. The 49-year-old has signed a three-year contract worth nine million euros ($10 million) plus bonuses, according to press reports.

Inter Milan on Friday announced the appointment of former Italy manager Antonio Conte as coach with the ambition of returning to the top of world football. The 49-year-old has signed a three-year contract worth nine million euros ($10 million) plus bonuses, according to press reports. He replaces Luciano Spalletti who secured Chinese-owned Inter's Champions League berth for a second consecutive year on the final day of the Serie A season last Sunday. With the 18-time Serie A champions searching for a first trophy since the Coppa Italia in 2011, Conte boasts a powerful pedigree. He won the first three of Juventus' eight straight Serie A titles and the Premier League and FA Cup as Chelsea boss. "A new chapter is opening in my life. I can't wait. I have chosen Inter because of the club it is, for its plans and ambition," Conte said. Inter chairman Steve Wang added, "I am sure Antonio Conte is one of the best coaches. "I am sure he will help us to reach our target ... to make this club one of the best in the world again," Wang said. Conte had also been linked with a return to champions Juventus, after his successor in Turin Massimiliano Allegri was removed. Spalletti took over at Inter in mid-2017 having previously coached Zenit Saint Petersburg and Roma. But it proved a season of highs and lows with the club eliminated at the group stage of the Champions League in which they were drawn with Barcelona and Tottenham. They fell in the last 16 of the Europa League. Inter snatched fourth place, equal on points with Atalanta, but behind the side from Bergamo on head-to-head difference, to edge city rivals AC Milan by just one point in the race for elite European football. Inter announced Spalletti's departure on Thursday with Zhang paying tribute to the 60-year-old who paid for failing to lift any silverware. "A coach, a teacher, a friend," Zhang wrote on Instagram with a photo of himself alongside Spalletti.

Inter Milan appoint Antonio Conte as new coach; Luciano Spalletti parts ways

Liverpool are now in a position where winning trophies has become a priority after proving themselves to be one of the best sides in the world, right back Trent Alexander-Arnold said ahead of Saturday's Champions League final against <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/losing-champions-league-final-would-be-painful-says-tottenhams-son-heung-min-218869&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj8nZjO3cXiAhVFqI8KHYTVDqQQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw07uKDeXk50Fa_14bASBhMG">Tottenham Hotspur.</a>

They have made steady progress since Juergen Klopp was appointed manager in 2015 and the Merseyside club have qualified for the Champions League in his three full seasons in charge.

This season they stepped up their game to compete on two fronts, narrowly missing out on the Premier League title by a single point to Manchester City while also progressing to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/mauricio-pochettino-optimistic-harry-kane-will-play-in-champions-league-final-221259&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj8nZjO3cXiAhVFqI8KHYTVDqQQFjADegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3QBborjG54nS6PoPscWdIc">Champions League final.</a>

The final in Madrid is <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-salah-seeks-champions-league-final-redemption-222467&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj8nZjO3cXiAhVFqI8KHYTVDqQQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0jEMENHdMb07LB2-S1wjuD">Liverpool's</a> last chance to ensure they do not finish the season empty-handed and Alexander-Arnold said they deserved silverware for their performances under Klopp.

"We're at a place where we demand silverware from ourselves. It's not something we shy away from or are scared of. We're one of the best sides in the world," Alexander-Arnold told&nbsp;in an interview.

"We can't put too much pressure on our first major season of competing on two big fronts but ultimately it's the objective we're striving towards,'' said Alexander-Arnold.

"If we don't win a lot of silverware over the next few years then something has gone massively wrong because with this manager... with the way that we've been playing, it's incredible and we will keep going and going. That will be rewarded," he added.

This is Liverpool's second consecutive Champions League final and their fourth in 14 years, last winning the coveted trophy in 2005.

After losing 3-1 to Real Madrid in the showpiece event in Kiev last season, Alexander-Arnold said he was not surprised the Anfield side were back in contention to win their sixth European Cup yet again this year.

"It has come really soon, but I didn't doubt that it would. This team is good enough to win leagues, to win Champions Leagues. We've shown that across the last two seasons especially and we just need to get over the line now," he added.

"I'm sure soon as we get one, we'll be unstoppable and that's the focus for us -- becoming a formidable team that is unbreakable,"&nbsp;said Alexander-Arnold.

Liverpool are now in a position where winning trophies has become a priority after proving themselves to be one of the best sides in the world, right back Trent Alexander-Arnold said ahead of Saturday's Champions League final against Tottenham Hotspur.

Liverpool are now in a position where winning trophies has become a priority after proving themselves to be one of the best sides in the world, right back Trent Alexander-Arnold said ahead of Saturday's Champions League final against Tottenham Hotspur. They have made steady progress since Juergen Klopp was appointed manager in 2015 and the Merseyside club have qualified for the Champions League in his three full seasons in charge. This season they stepped up their game to compete on two fronts, narrowly missing out on the Premier League title by a single point to Manchester City while also progressing to the Champions League final. The final in Madrid is Liverpool's last chance to ensure they do not finish the season empty-handed and Alexander-Arnold said they deserved silverware for their performances under Klopp. "We're at a place where we demand silverware from ourselves. It's not something we shy away from or are scared of. We're one of the best sides in the world," Alexander-Arnold told in an interview. "We can't put too much pressure on our first major season of competing on two big fronts but ultimately it's the objective we're striving towards,'' said Alexander-Arnold. "If we don't win a lot of silverware over the next few years then something has gone massively wrong because with this manager... with the way that we've been playing, it's incredible and we will keep going and going. That will be rewarded," he added. This is Liverpool's second consecutive Champions League final and their fourth in 14 years, last winning the coveted trophy in 2005. After losing 3-1 to Real Madrid in the showpiece event in Kiev last season, Alexander-Arnold said he was not surprised the Anfield side were back in contention to win their sixth European Cup yet again this year. "It has come really soon, but I didn't doubt that it would. This team is good enough to win leagues, to win Champions Leagues. We've shown that across the last two seasons especially and we just need to get over the line now," he added. "I'm sure soon as we get one, we'll be unstoppable and that's the focus for us -- becoming a formidable team that is unbreakable," said Alexander-Arnold.

Silverware is priority for Liverpool, says Alexander-Arnold ahead of Champions League final against Tottenham

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Mohamed+Salah">Mohamed Salah</a> is keen to make a decisive contribution in Saturday's Champions League final against Tottenham Hotspur and help lay to rest the demons of Liverpool's nightmare defeat by Real Madrid a year ago.

Salah injured his shoulder in a coming together with Real defender Sergio Ramos during last year's final in Kiev and was forced to leave the field with half an hour played.

Liverpool went on to lose 3-1 and their Egyptian forward is fired up by the thought of scoring the winner this time around and helping his team claim their sixth European Cup.

"I hope I can play the full game this time. I'm very excited," Salah told reporters on Tuesday. "I hope we can right what happened last season, get a good result and win the competition.

"(Scoring the winner is) not just dream. I hope it becomes a reality and I score in the final."

Salah also said Liverpool had learnt their lessons from last year's disappointment and that the team was better off for the experience.

"This is our second final in a row," he added. "We lost the first but everything feels better this time around and we have more experience than last time.

"I hope we can win it. It will be tough. This is a final and no opponent would have been easy... It is harder because (Tottenham) is an English side."

Mohamed Salah is keen to make a decisive contribution in Saturday's Champions League final against Tottenham Hotspur and help lay to rest the demons of Liverpool's nightmare defeat by Real Madrid a year ago.

Mohamed Salah is keen to make a decisive contribution in Saturday's Champions League final against Tottenham Hotspur and help lay to rest the demons of Liverpool's nightmare defeat by Real Madrid a year ago. Salah injured his shoulder in a coming together with Real defender Sergio Ramos during last year's final in Kiev and was forced to leave the field with half an hour played. Liverpool went on to lose 3-1 and their Egyptian forward is fired up by the thought of scoring the winner this time around and helping his team claim their sixth European Cup. "I hope I can play the full game this time. I'm very excited," Salah told reporters on Tuesday. "I hope we can right what happened last season, get a good result and win the competition. "(Scoring the winner is) not just dream. I hope it becomes a reality and I score in the final." Salah also said Liverpool had learnt their lessons from last year's disappointment and that the team was better off for the experience. "This is our second final in a row," he added. "We lost the first but everything feels better this time around and we have more experience than last time. "I hope we can win it. It will be tough. This is a final and no opponent would have been easy... It is harder because (Tottenham) is an English side."

Liverpool's Salah seeks Champions League final redemption

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/mauricio-pochettino-optimistic-harry-kane-will-play-in-champions-league-final-221259&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwie95CQyr3iAhWK63MBHQDTB6wQFjAEegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1jvXXSaKx9qHNdecAEpCzT">Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane</a> says he is feeling strong in his bid to recover from injury for the Champions League final against Liverpool, but manager Mauricio Pochettino stressed Spurs' fortunes would not rest on whether or not he plays.

Kane, Spurs' top Premier League scorer for the last five years, has been out of action since tearing ankle ligaments in the quarter-final first leg against Manchester City but has returned to full training with his teammates.

He looked free of injury worries in Monday's training session which was open to the media ahead of Saturday's match at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium in Madrid, Spurs' first appearance in a Champions League final.

"I'm in a good place, the ankle feels strong. It's down to the manager if I play or not, but so far, so good," Kane told reporters.

"<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenhams-harry-kane-has-significant-ankle-ligament-damage-209692&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwie95CQyr3iAhWK63MBHQDTB6wQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw14-_j2Xu_fVepvK3x3sXU0">When the injury happened</a>, the only game available was this one because it was the only one in the timeframe. It worked well in terms of the rehab; there was no time to rush back because there were no games," Kane said.

Pochettino was also encouraged by Kane's chances of making the match.

"In the last week, he started to be involved with the group. I'm very positive about his situation, we have one week ahead to evaluate and see how he's progressing," Pochettino said.

"It's so important that he feels well and we see what happens. I can't say he's 100 per cent, whether he will be available or on the bench or out, but we are so happy and positive about his progression,"&nbsp;Pochettino said.

Pochettino added that Tottenham's other injured players - Harry Winks, Jan Vertonghen and Davinson Sanchez - were also on track to be fit to make the squad for the game.

He said Tottenham's momentous victories over Manchester City and Ajax Amsterdam as well as finishing fourth in the Premier League while Kane was out showed that the team was about more than one player.

"Football is about team spirit, the collective and faith. Look how we got to the final. When Harry got injured it was in the quarter-finals and look what happened - we had one of the most fantastic seasons," he said.

"That doesn't mean he's not one of the best players in the team. For me, he's one of the best strikers in the world, in the top three. We need to beat Liverpool, and if he's available all the better, but it's not him and the rest of the team,'' Pochettino said.

"He's one of our stars and if he's ready I'll be the first one to be happy. But we always prioritise the team and don't worry, we'll take the best decision to try and win,"&nbsp;Pochettino added.

Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane says he is feeling strong in his bid to recover from injury for the Champions League final against Liverpool, but manager Mauricio Pochettino stressed Spurs' fortunes would not rest on whether or not he plays.

Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane says he is feeling strong in his bid to recover from injury for the Champions League final against Liverpool, but manager Mauricio Pochettino stressed Spurs' fortunes would not rest on whether or not he plays. Kane, Spurs' top Premier League scorer for the last five years, has been out of action since tearing ankle ligaments in the quarter-final first leg against Manchester City but has returned to full training with his teammates. He looked free of injury worries in Monday's training session which was open to the media ahead of Saturday's match at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium in Madrid, Spurs' first appearance in a Champions League final. "I'm in a good place, the ankle feels strong. It's down to the manager if I play or not, but so far, so good," Kane told reporters. "When the injury happened, the only game available was this one because it was the only one in the timeframe. It worked well in terms of the rehab; there was no time to rush back because there were no games," Kane said. Pochettino was also encouraged by Kane's chances of making the match. "In the last week, he started to be involved with the group. I'm very positive about his situation, we have one week ahead to evaluate and see how he's progressing," Pochettino said. "It's so important that he feels well and we see what happens. I can't say he's 100 per cent, whether he will be available or on the bench or out, but we are so happy and positive about his progression," Pochettino said. Pochettino added that Tottenham's other injured players - Harry Winks, Jan Vertonghen and Davinson Sanchez - were also on track to be fit to make the squad for the game. He said Tottenham's momentous victories over Manchester City and Ajax Amsterdam as well as finishing fourth in the Premier League while Kane was out showed that the team was about more than one player. "Football is about team spirit, the collective and faith. Look how we got to the final. When Harry got injured it was in the quarter-finals and look what happened - we had one of the most fantastic seasons," he said. "That doesn't mean he's not one of the best players in the team. For me, he's one of the best strikers in the world, in the top three. We need to beat Liverpool, and if he's available all the better, but it's not him and the rest of the team,'' Pochettino said. "He's one of our stars and if he's ready I'll be the first one to be happy. But we always prioritise the team and don't worry, we'll take the best decision to try and win," Pochettino added.

Tottenham's Harry Kane 'feeling strong' in bid to be fit for Champions League final

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has said Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino should be fit to face <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/losing-champions-league-final-would-be-painful-says-tottenhams-son-heung-min-218869">Tottenham Hotspur</a> in Saturday's Champions League final in Madrid.

Firmino missed Liverpool's memorable semi-final win over Barcelona and the final game of the Premier League season against Wolverhampton Wanderers with a muscle strain but he has responded well to his return to training said Klopp.

"Bobby was part of training last week then we took him out and will be in training from tomorrow again. From what we saw so far he looked good. He will be fine, I'm sure," the German told a news conference on Tuesday.

Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum said Firmino was crucial to Liverpool's way of playing.

"Really important, he sets the pressing from the front. We try to follow him. When we have the ball he is like an extra midfielder so we try and follow him in both ways. He is also an extra defender," Wijnaldum said.

The 28-year-old stepped into the Firmino role during the second half of Liverpool's stunning 4-0 win over Barcelona, scoring twice. While he would be willing to take on that duty again, he said he was more comfortable in his usual central midfield position.

"I prefer to play in the midfield but if the manager needs me I will play anywhere. That is a really difficult position to play. I think Divock (Origi) or (Daniel) Sturridge is a better option but if the manager needs me...," he said.

Guinea midfielder Naby Keita is recovering well from his thigh injury but Klopp said he had no chance to be involved.

Liverpool return to the final following their defeat to Real Madrid in last year's showpiece in Kiev. Klopp said they were fired up for the occasion but played down talk of them having more big-game experience than Spurs.

"We are all very excited about having a chance again. We are probably the more experienced, but it doesn't really make a difference," he said.

"It's about using the things that brought you to the final. So far we have controlled our emotions in a really good way."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has said Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino should be fit to face Tottenham Hotspur in Saturday's Champions League final in Madrid.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has said Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino should be fit to face Tottenham Hotspur in Saturday's Champions League final in Madrid. Firmino missed Liverpool's memorable semi-final win over Barcelona and the final game of the Premier League season against Wolverhampton Wanderers with a muscle strain but he has responded well to his return to training said Klopp. "Bobby was part of training last week then we took him out and will be in training from tomorrow again. From what we saw so far he looked good. He will be fine, I'm sure," the German told a news conference on Tuesday. Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum said Firmino was crucial to Liverpool's way of playing. "Really important, he sets the pressing from the front. We try to follow him. When we have the ball he is like an extra midfielder so we try and follow him in both ways. He is also an extra defender," Wijnaldum said. The 28-year-old stepped into the Firmino role during the second half of Liverpool's stunning 4-0 win over Barcelona, scoring twice. While he would be willing to take on that duty again, he said he was more comfortable in his usual central midfield position. "I prefer to play in the midfield but if the manager needs me I will play anywhere. That is a really difficult position to play. I think Divock (Origi) or (Daniel) Sturridge is a better option but if the manager needs me...," he said. Guinea midfielder Naby Keita is recovering well from his thigh injury but Klopp said he had no chance to be involved. Liverpool return to the final following their defeat to Real Madrid in last year's showpiece in Kiev. Klopp said they were fired up for the occasion but played down talk of them having more big-game experience than Spurs. "We are all very excited about having a chance again. We are probably the more experienced, but it doesn't really make a difference," he said. "It's about using the things that brought you to the final. So far we have controlled our emotions in a really good way."

Roberto Firmino 'will be fine' for final says Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp

Lionel&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;wants Ernesto Valverde to continue as Barcelona coach but admits the team have not recovered from their Champions League loss to Liverpool as they face Valencia in the Copa del Rey final&nbsp;on Saturday.&nbsp;

After winning La Liga by 11 points, Barca can complete a domestic double by beating Valencia in Seville, but even that will not erase the disappointment of throwing away a three-goal lead at Anfield.&nbsp;

Valverde conceded his future was uncertain after the loss but the club's president, Josep Maria Bartomeu, has since said the coach will remain in charge.

"I honestly believe the boss has done an impressive job during his time in charge,"&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;said at a press conference on Friday.&nbsp;

"I think that in the defeat to Liverpool, he is practically blameless, we are the only ones to blame for that match.

"That can happen one year. but two years in a row is unforgivable. The boss will obviously be partly to blame but it is the players even more.&nbsp;

"I would like him to continue. Last year, we did the double and even though it was stained by getting knocked out of the Champions League, this year we can win the double again.&nbsp;

"If you look at his two years, there have been two bad games, but beyond those the rest has been good."&nbsp;

Valverde was also asked again about his future.&nbsp;

"I have no complaints from the president or the board," said Valverde, who added: "You seem very worried, don't worry so much."&nbsp;

Barcelona were desperate to win the Champions League, after failing to reach the final in four consecutive years while also watching Real Madrid lift the trophy three times in a row.&nbsp;

Since losing to Liverpool, Valverde's team have beaten Getafe 2-0 at Camp Nou before ending the league season with a 2-2 draw away at Eibar on Sunday.&nbsp;

"We are still recovering from the game against Liverpool, at least I am, I just want to win this final and finish the year with another title,"&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

'Hard blow'

"It was a very hard blow and both I and the whole club have had a hard time lifting ourselves, which I think has been shown in the matches we have played since.&nbsp;

"It was hard but that's it, this is a final, it is a title and we have the chance to do a double.

"We need to think that we have to win, like in any other final that we play. Obviously not winning this final would be make things even worse."&nbsp;

Barcelona are chasing a record fifth consecutive Copa del Rey triumph to go with their eight La Liga titles in the last 11 years.&nbsp;

"After a bump so big we have to face things with integrity," said Valverde.&nbsp;

"You cannot hide your head in a hole and disappear off the map. We responded after Anfield in La Liga and now we cannot wriggle out in the cup.&nbsp;

"We have to go all out for a title we have been pursuing since January."&nbsp;

Valverde said Nelson Semedo has recovered from his head injury and is likely to be available while late decisions will be made on Arthur Melo and Philippe Coutinho, who are close to shaking off hamstring and thigh injuries respectively.&nbsp;

But Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Luis Suarez and Ousmane Dembele are all out, with Jasper Cillessen expected to start in goal.&nbsp;

Unlike Barcelona, Valencia are flying high after completing a late-season surge by finishing fourth in La Liga last weekend.&nbsp;

The club has not lifted &nbsp;trophy since they won the Copa del Rey in 2008.&nbsp;

"We have the experience that we have," coach Marcelino said on Friday. "There may be something missing in that regard but for sure, we have plenty of heart."&nbsp;

Lionel Messi wants Ernesto Valverde to continue as Barcelona coach but admits the team have not recovered from their Champions League loss to Liverpool as they face Valencia in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday.

Lionel Messi wants Ernesto Valverde to continue as Barcelona coach but admits the team have not recovered from their Champions League loss to Liverpool as they face Valencia in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday. After winning La Liga by 11 points, Barca can complete a domestic double by beating Valencia in Seville, but even that will not erase the disappointment of throwing away a three-goal lead at Anfield. Valverde conceded his future was uncertain after the loss but the club's president, Josep Maria Bartomeu, has since said the coach will remain in charge. "I honestly believe the boss has done an impressive job during his time in charge," Messi said at a press conference on Friday. "I think that in the defeat to Liverpool, he is practically blameless, we are the only ones to blame for that match. "That can happen one year. but two years in a row is unforgivable. The boss will obviously be partly to blame but it is the players even more. "I would like him to continue. Last year, we did the double and even though it was stained by getting knocked out of the Champions League, this year we can win the double again. "If you look at his two years, there have been two bad games, but beyond those the rest has been good." Valverde was also asked again about his future. "I have no complaints from the president or the board," said Valverde, who added: "You seem very worried, don't worry so much." Barcelona were desperate to win the Champions League, after failing to reach the final in four consecutive years while also watching Real Madrid lift the trophy three times in a row. Since losing to Liverpool, Valverde's team have beaten Getafe 2-0 at Camp Nou before ending the league season with a 2-2 draw away at Eibar on Sunday. "We are still recovering from the game against Liverpool, at least I am, I just want to win this final and finish the year with another title," Messi said. 'Hard blow' "It was a very hard blow and both I and the whole club have had a hard time lifting ourselves, which I think has been shown in the matches we have played since. "It was hard but that's it, this is a final, it is a title and we have the chance to do a double. "We need to think that we have to win, like in any other final that we play. Obviously not winning this final would be make things even worse." Barcelona are chasing a record fifth consecutive Copa del Rey triumph to go with their eight La Liga titles in the last 11 years. "After a bump so big we have to face things with integrity," said Valverde. "You cannot hide your head in a hole and disappear off the map. We responded after Anfield in La Liga and now we cannot wriggle out in the cup. "We have to go all out for a title we have been pursuing since January." Valverde said Nelson Semedo has recovered from his head injury and is likely to be available while late decisions will be made on Arthur Melo and Philippe Coutinho, who are close to shaking off hamstring and thigh injuries respectively. But Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Luis Suarez and Ousmane Dembele are all out, with Jasper Cillessen expected to start in goal. Unlike Barcelona, Valencia are flying high after completing a late-season surge by finishing fourth in La Liga last weekend. The club has not lifted trophy since they won the Copa del Rey in 2008. "We have the experience that we have," coach Marcelino said on Friday. "There may be something missing in that regard but for sure, we have plenty of heart."

Lionel Messi backs Valverde but admits Barca are still hurting

Paris Saint Germain's Kylian Mbappe said that Lionel Messi deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year despite Barcelona's exit from the UEFA Champions League semi-final.&nbsp;

On being asked about who will win the Ballon d'Or this year, Kylian Mbappe said, "(Lionel) Messi, despite the elimination, it does not change anything. He is the number one. He has shown he was the best player this year.

"The year will take us up to December but I'm not worried about him, he is going to play until December," he added.&nbsp;

Mbappe made history on Sunday by becoming the first player to named both player of the year and young player of the year at the prestigious Trophees UNFP (French Professional Footballers Association) awards ceremony in Paris.&nbsp;

The French striker has also cast doubts on his intentions for next season as he said he wanted "more responsibility" in the future either at PSG or "somewhere else".&nbsp;

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🤙🏽🏆❤️... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Troph%C3%A9esUNFP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrophéesUNFP</a> <a href="https://t.co/tsjW9YP6pF">pic.twitter.com/tsjW9YP6pF</a>
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🏆 Joueur de l’année 
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Un grand merci pour l’ensemble des votes et du soutien. 
Je tiens à remercier mes coéquipiers, le staff, le club et ma famille 😍 <a href="https://t.co/okKHSndENA">pic.twitter.com/okKHSndENA</a>
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Mbappe has scored 32 goals in Ligue 1 this season.&nbsp;

Paris Saint Germain's Kylian Mbappe said that Lionel Messi deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year despite Barcelona's exit from the UEFA Champions League semi-final.

Paris Saint Germain's Kylian Mbappe said that Lionel Messi deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year despite Barcelona's exit from the UEFA Champions League semi-final. On being asked about who will win the Ballon d'Or this year, Kylian Mbappe said, "(Lionel) Messi, despite the elimination, it does not change anything. He is the number one. He has shown he was the best player this year. "The year will take us up to December but I'm not worried about him, he is going to play until December," he added. Mbappe made history on Sunday by becoming the first player to named both player of the year and young player of the year at the prestigious Trophees UNFP (French Professional Footballers Association) awards ceremony in Paris. The French striker has also cast doubts on his intentions for next season as he said he wanted "more responsibility" in the future either at PSG or "somewhere else". 🤙🏽🏆❤️... #TrophéesUNFP pic.twitter.com/tsjW9YP6pF — Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) May 20, 2019 × 😄🔝 🏆 Joueur de l’année 🏆 Meilleur Espoir 🏆Équipe Type de la saison Un grand merci pour l’ensemble des votes et du soutien. Je tiens à remercier mes coéquipiers, le staff, le club et ma famille 😍 pic.twitter.com/okKHSndENA — Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) May 19, 2019 × Mbappe has scored 32 goals in Ligue 1 this season.

Lionel Messi 'favourite to win Ballon d'Or', says Kylian Mbappe

Norwegian Ada Hegerberg fired Olympique Lyon to an unprecedented fourth straight Women's Champions League title with a first-half hat-trick in a 4-1 win over Barcelona in Saturday's final at Budapest's Groupama Arena.

The French side, packed with some of the finest international talent in the women's game, proved far too strong for a Barcelona team playing in their first Champions League final.

Hegerberg struck her three goals in a blistering 16-minute spell midway through the first half as Lyon swept aside the Spaniards.

"It was almost a perfect match and that is rare in a final as a lot of things come into play, such as emotions. We managed to put that to one side," said Lyon coach Reyneld Pedros, who said his team were "writing history".

"It's a lot of work but a lot of fun, too. If you look at this match, you can only be happy about what we've achieved," he said.

Stronger, faster, smarter and more clinical, Lyon with 2018 Ballon d'Or winner Hegerberg in deadly form, showed exactly why they have reached eight finals in the past 10 seasons and are the undisputed powerhouse of European women's football.

Starting as underdogs, Barcelona knew they would have to deliver the performance of their lives to have a chance against Reynald Pedros's expensively-assembled team and they had an early opportunity but their Liverpool-born forward Toni Duggan dragged her shot wide of Sarah Bouhaddi’s right-hand post.

Lyon responded to that early warning in swift and decisive fashion, taking a fifth-minute lead when Dutch winger Shanice van de Senden's low cross was confidently converted by Budapest-born German international Dzsenifer Marozsan, to the delight of Hungarian fans in a 19,487 crowd.

Nine minutes later Hegerberg made no mistake from another low cross from Van de Senden after England's Lucy Bronze had set up the counter-attack with a strong breakout from the back.

Barca were struggling to get any kind of foothold in the game and it was 3-0 in the 19th minute when Amel Majri's ball from the left was driven home first time by 2018 Ballon d'Or winner Hegerberg.

Barca were unable to deal with Lyon's high press and physical presence in the centre of midfield while, at the back, the low balls in from Lyon continued to prove fruitful.

The 23-year-old Hegerberg completed her hat-trick on the half-hour after the overlapping Bronze whipped in a ball from the right and Hegerberg took full advantage of the opportunity to beat Sandra Panos again.

It was little more than a damage-limitation exercise for the Spaniards after the break and when they did get a sniff of a chance, Lieke Martens and Vicky Losada were unable to find the target.

They gained some consolation however when substitute Asisat Oshoala pulled a goal back in the 89th minute after a clever through ball from Lieke Martens.

"The main message I want to convey to the team is that they should be proud of their achievement," said Barcelona coach Lluis Cortes.

"We should work to make sure next year we are closer. We don't have the final experience of Lyon. It was the first for all of us and that counted against us in the early minutes."

Norwegian Ada Hegerberg fired Olympique Lyon to an unprecedented fourth straight Women's Champions League title with a first-half hat-trick in a 4-1 win over Barcelona in Saturday's final at Budapest's Groupama Arena.

Norwegian Ada Hegerberg fired Olympique Lyon to an unprecedented fourth straight Women's Champions League title with a first-half hat-trick in a 4-1 win over Barcelona in Saturday's final at Budapest's Groupama Arena. The French side, packed with some of the finest international talent in the women's game, proved far too strong for a Barcelona team playing in their first Champions League final. Hegerberg struck her three goals in a blistering 16-minute spell midway through the first half as Lyon swept aside the Spaniards. "It was almost a perfect match and that is rare in a final as a lot of things come into play, such as emotions. We managed to put that to one side," said Lyon coach Reyneld Pedros, who said his team were "writing history". "It's a lot of work but a lot of fun, too. If you look at this match, you can only be happy about what we've achieved," he said. Stronger, faster, smarter and more clinical, Lyon with 2018 Ballon d'Or winner Hegerberg in deadly form, showed exactly why they have reached eight finals in the past 10 seasons and are the undisputed powerhouse of European women's football. Starting as underdogs, Barcelona knew they would have to deliver the performance of their lives to have a chance against Reynald Pedros's expensively-assembled team and they had an early opportunity but their Liverpool-born forward Toni Duggan dragged her shot wide of Sarah Bouhaddi’s right-hand post. Lyon responded to that early warning in swift and decisive fashion, taking a fifth-minute lead when Dutch winger Shanice van de Senden's low cross was confidently converted by Budapest-born German international Dzsenifer Marozsan, to the delight of Hungarian fans in a 19,487 crowd. Nine minutes later Hegerberg made no mistake from another low cross from Van de Senden after England's Lucy Bronze had set up the counter-attack with a strong breakout from the back. Barca were struggling to get any kind of foothold in the game and it was 3-0 in the 19th minute when Amel Majri's ball from the left was driven home first time by 2018 Ballon d'Or winner Hegerberg. Barca were unable to deal with Lyon's high press and physical presence in the centre of midfield while, at the back, the low balls in from Lyon continued to prove fruitful. The 23-year-old Hegerberg completed her hat-trick on the half-hour after the overlapping Bronze whipped in a ball from the right and Hegerberg took full advantage of the opportunity to beat Sandra Panos again. It was little more than a damage-limitation exercise for the Spaniards after the break and when they did get a sniff of a chance, Lieke Martens and Vicky Losada were unable to find the target. They gained some consolation however when substitute Asisat Oshoala pulled a goal back in the 89th minute after a clever through ball from Lieke Martens. "The main message I want to convey to the team is that they should be proud of their achievement," said Barcelona coach Lluis Cortes. "We should work to make sure next year we are closer. We don't have the final experience of Lyon. It was the first for all of us and that counted against us in the early minutes."

Ada Hegerberg hat-trick fires Lyon to fourth straight Champions League

Club captain Vincent Kompany announced Sunday that he is to leave Manchester City after 11 trophy-laden years.

The 33-year-old Belgian defender joined the club in the summer of 2008 and has made 360 appearances, winning four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups and two Community Shields.

He <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-crush-watford-6-0-in-fa-cup-final-219717">signed off with victory in the FA Cup final</a> on Saturday, where City thrashed Watford 6-0 to complete a domestic treble.

"As overwhelming as it is, the time has come for me to go. And what a season to bow out," said Kompany, who joined City from Hamburg.

"I feel nothing but gratefulness. I am grateful to all those who supported me on a special journey, at a very special club."

Kompany added: "I will never forget how all Man City supporters remained loyal to me in good times and especially bad times. Against the odds you have always backed me and inspired me to never give up.

"(Club owner) Sheikh Mansour changed my life and that of all the City fans around the world, for that I am forever grateful. A blue nation has arisen and challenged the established order of things, I find that awesome."

Kompany also paid tribute to his team-mates and manager Pep Guardiola.

"It's cliche to say it but it's also so true: without my team-mates, I would have never been here today," he said.

"We fought many battles together. Side by side. In good times and in bad. So to all of you, from the 2008-2009 squad to today's domestic treble winners: I owe you guys!

"A special word also to Pep and the backroom staff: you've been superb. You've followed me through so much hardship. You made me come back stronger every time. Thank you so much."

Club captain Vincent Kompany announced Sunday that he is to leave Manchester City after 11 trophy-laden years. The 33-year-old Belgian defender joined the club in the summer of 2008 and has made 360 appearances, winning four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups and two Community Shields.

Club captain Vincent Kompany announced Sunday that he is to leave Manchester City after 11 trophy-laden years. The 33-year-old Belgian defender joined the club in the summer of 2008 and has made 360 appearances, winning four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups and two Community Shields. He signed off with victory in the FA Cup final on Saturday, where City thrashed Watford 6-0 to complete a domestic treble. "As overwhelming as it is, the time has come for me to go. And what a season to bow out," said Kompany, who joined City from Hamburg. "I feel nothing but gratefulness. I am grateful to all those who supported me on a special journey, at a very special club." Kompany added: "I will never forget how all Man City supporters remained loyal to me in good times and especially bad times. Against the odds you have always backed me and inspired me to never give up. "(Club owner) Sheikh Mansour changed my life and that of all the City fans around the world, for that I am forever grateful. A blue nation has arisen and challenged the established order of things, I find that awesome." Kompany also paid tribute to his team-mates and manager Pep Guardiola. "It's cliche to say it but it's also so true: without my team-mates, I would have never been here today," he said. "We fought many battles together. Side by side. In good times and in bad. So to all of you, from the 2008-2009 squad to today's domestic treble winners: I owe you guys! "A special word also to Pep and the backroom staff: you've been superb. You've followed me through so much hardship. You made me come back stronger every time. Thank you so much."

Vincent Kompany to leave Manchester City after 11 trophy-laden years

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurgen-klopp-backs-liverpool-for-premier-league-miracle-217739&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjLstu39pziAhUIMI8KHayoBgAQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw14oLwgFxrsWph7TfwvlXzZ">Juergen Klopp says he will fill the three-week gap before the Champions League final </a>against Tottenham Hotspur by putting his Liverpool players through a two-week "pre-season".

The two Premier League clubs played their final domestic games of the season on Sunday and are in the unusual position of having a long wait for the June 1 clash in Madrid.

Klopp has given his team a few days off to recover from a gruelling Premier League campaign in which they pushed Manchester City to the final day in the title race, eventually losing out by one point.

They will reconvene next week to prepare for the showpiece meeting at Atletico Madrid`s Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.

"We have to do a couple of things in preparation for the Champions League, media stuff," Klopp told the club's website.

"We have to do that, then the boys will have a couple of days off and then we have two proper weeks as a pre-season for the Champions League final. We will do that, we will play that, (hopefully) win it, come home and then the people get what they deserve", Klopp said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-looked-like-schoolboys-says-suarez-after-barcelona-crumble-against-liverpool-216911&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjLstu39pziAhUIMI8KHayoBgAQFjAJegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3_amWr4_W3TxWH6EU-Y-4E">Liverpool, who defeated Barcelona to reach their second consecutive Champions League fina</a>l, are bidding for their sixth European Cup, which would be their first piece of silverware under Klopp.

Tottenham, who produced a superb comeback to beat Ajax Amsterdam in the semi-final and reach their first Champions League final, will hope to use the gap to their advantage with top striker Harry Kane recovering from an ankle injury.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino, also seeking his first silverware after five years at Tottenham, said at the weekend after they clinched a top-four spot with a 2-2 draw at home to Everton that he would not put his players through a pre-season regime.

They were given Monday and Tuesday off before beginning the build-up to the final.

"We have our idea, we have our plan," Klopp&nbsp;said.

"We need to be natural. It is not a pre-season, but it is not going to be a holiday. The most important thing is that we apply common sense, we have the plan and we are going to deliver the plan so the players arrive in the best condition to win the final", Klopp added.

Juergen Klopp says he will fill the three-week gap before the Champions League final against Tottenham Hotspur by putting his Liverpool players through a two-week "pre-season".

Juergen Klopp says he will fill the three-week gap before the Champions League final against Tottenham Hotspur by putting his Liverpool players through a two-week "pre-season". The two Premier League clubs played their final domestic games of the season on Sunday and are in the unusual position of having a long wait for the June 1 clash in Madrid. Klopp has given his team a few days off to recover from a gruelling Premier League campaign in which they pushed Manchester City to the final day in the title race, eventually losing out by one point. They will reconvene next week to prepare for the showpiece meeting at Atletico Madrid`s Wanda Metropolitano Stadium. "We have to do a couple of things in preparation for the Champions League, media stuff," Klopp told the club's website. "We have to do that, then the boys will have a couple of days off and then we have two proper weeks as a pre-season for the Champions League final. We will do that, we will play that, (hopefully) win it, come home and then the people get what they deserve", Klopp said. Liverpool, who defeated Barcelona to reach their second consecutive Champions League final, are bidding for their sixth European Cup, which would be their first piece of silverware under Klopp. Tottenham, who produced a superb comeback to beat Ajax Amsterdam in the semi-final and reach their first Champions League final, will hope to use the gap to their advantage with top striker Harry Kane recovering from an ankle injury. Manager Mauricio Pochettino, also seeking his first silverware after five years at Tottenham, said at the weekend after they clinched a top-four spot with a 2-2 draw at home to Everton that he would not put his players through a pre-season regime. They were given Monday and Tuesday off before beginning the build-up to the final. "We have our idea, we have our plan," Klopp said. "We need to be natural. It is not a pre-season, but it is not going to be a holiday. The most important thing is that we apply common sense, we have the plan and we are going to deliver the plan so the players arrive in the best condition to win the final", Klopp added.

Jurgen Klopp: Liverpool players to face intense 'pre-season' ahead of Spurs final

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenham-hotspurs-coach-mauricio-pochettino-hints-leaving-the-club-if-they-win-the-champions-league-217190&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNn_bA7ZziAhXdiHAKHZdoAm0QFjACegQIChAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2NbRrcfYDIvsgc3btpCa4C">Tottenham Hotspur's</a> South Korea forward Son Heung-min has said losing their first <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/last-gasp-lucas-moura-winner-sends-tottenham-into-champions-league-final-217128&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNn_bA7ZziAhXdiHAKHZdoAm0QFjAFegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2TfFE_LRX9XgLjEokQRvys">Champions League final</a> would be painful for a very long time as he prepares to make sure that does not happen when they face Liverpool in Madrid next month.

Son would not speculate on the outcome of the June 1 match against a side who have already beaten them twice in the Premier League this season but said Spurs must work hard to overcome a team that just missed out on the domestic league title.&nbsp;

"I don't want to talk about winning or losing. There's a long time to prepare for this important game," he said.

"Winning the Champions League means a lot, but losing would be painful for a long, long time. We just want to be ready and then we will see what happens. <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-stun-messis-barcelona-to-enter-champions-league-final-216859&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjVoKzj7ZziAhXDuY8KHSIQAhsQFjADegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Oc_oGIY7r1NpWdhYFLIq8">Liverpool are a strong team,</a> so how we play will be important," he told the Evening Standard.

The 26-year-old Son is confident that a three-week break will see him return to what he called "fire mode" against the Merseysiders at Atletico Madrid`s Wanda Metropolitano stadium.

Tottenham, who came fourth in the Premier League with Sunday's 2-2 draw against Everton to qualify for the elite club competition next season, returned to training on Wednesday as they began preparing for their first European Cup final.

Despite netting 18 goals for Spurs in all competitions since November, Son finds himself in a mini scoring drought after failing to find the net in his last five appearances.

He has already had more time than his Tottenham team mates to recharge his batteries after serving the first game of a three-match domestic ban against Everton.

"I think everyone needs this time to rest. We're trying to get as fit as possible, to make sure we give everything in this game'',&nbsp;said Son.

"I am a really, really positive guy and it is one of the best feelings to be playing in the Champions League Final, so I just want to make sure that I am ready for every single ball and every single second.&nbsp;It is in three weeks, so everything is in our hands. I hope that I am in fire mode", Son added. 
&nbsp;

Tottenham Hotspur's South Korea forward Son Heung-min has said losing their first Champions League final would be painful for a very long time as he prepares to make sure that does not happen when they face Liverpool in Madrid next month.

Tottenham Hotspur's South Korea forward Son Heung-min has said losing their first Champions League final would be painful for a very long time as he prepares to make sure that does not happen when they face Liverpool in Madrid next month. Son would not speculate on the outcome of the June 1 match against a side who have already beaten them twice in the Premier League this season but said Spurs must work hard to overcome a team that just missed out on the domestic league title. "I don't want to talk about winning or losing. There's a long time to prepare for this important game," he said. "Winning the Champions League means a lot, but losing would be painful for a long, long time. We just want to be ready and then we will see what happens. Liverpool are a strong team, so how we play will be important," he told the Evening Standard. The 26-year-old Son is confident that a three-week break will see him return to what he called "fire mode" against the Merseysiders at Atletico Madrid`s Wanda Metropolitano stadium. Tottenham, who came fourth in the Premier League with Sunday's 2-2 draw against Everton to qualify for the elite club competition next season, returned to training on Wednesday as they began preparing for their first European Cup final. Despite netting 18 goals for Spurs in all competitions since November, Son finds himself in a mini scoring drought after failing to find the net in his last five appearances. He has already had more time than his Tottenham team mates to recharge his batteries after serving the first game of a three-match domestic ban against Everton. "I think everyone needs this time to rest. We're trying to get as fit as possible, to make sure we give everything in this game'', said Son. "I am a really, really positive guy and it is one of the best feelings to be playing in the Champions League Final, so I just want to make sure that I am ready for every single ball and every single second. It is in three weeks, so everything is in our hands. I hope that I am in fire mode", Son added.

Losing Champions League final would be painful, says Tottenham's Son Heung-min

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Ole+Gunnar+Solskjaer">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a> is the right manager to rebuild Manchester United but needs time to get the team back in a position where they can compete for titles, departing midfielder Ander Herrera has said.

Solskjaer, who took interim charge of the club in December, won 10 of his first 11 games in charge and was handed the job on a permanent basis in March only for results to nosedive in the months that followed.

United were knocked out of the Champions League quarter-finals and finished sixth in the Premier League after a dismal run of two wins in their last 12 games, leading to questions about whether the Norwegian is the right man for the job.

"I really believe in Ole," Herrera, who is tipped to join French champions Paris St Germain, told United's official website.

"He's the right person. I really believe in (the coaching staff)... but I think there's a tough job ahead. The club will need time, confidence and support."

Herrera, who announced the end of his five-year stint at United last week, highlighted how long it had taken United's rivals Liverpool to get to a position where they could challenge for silverware again.

Liverpool, who finished second in the league, a point behind champions Manchester City this season, have reached the Champions League final for the second year in a row and will take on Tottenham Hotspur in the Madrid showpiece on June 1.

"Liverpool are probably going to win the Champions League but... they haven't won one title in the five years I've been here," Herrera added.

"They have done incredible work but the fans have given them time. That's what this club needs at the moment."

The Spaniard also said United's players needed to take responsibility for the club's struggles and refused to blame Solskjaer or his predecessor Jose Mourinho for their abysmal season.

"I think every one of us has to take responsibility for what we have done wrong," Herrera said. "It's very easy when a manager is sacked to blame someone else but it's the fault of every one of us.

"When you've a bad season, 75% is the responsibility of the players. We've done bad things. We have done some good things but, for Manchester United, it's not enough."

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the right manager to rebuild Manchester United but needs time to get the team back in a position where they can compete for titles, departing midfielder Ander Herrera has said.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the right manager to rebuild Manchester United but needs time to get the team back in a position where they can compete for titles, departing midfielder Ander Herrera has said. Solskjaer, who took interim charge of the club in December, won 10 of his first 11 games in charge and was handed the job on a permanent basis in March only for results to nosedive in the months that followed. United were knocked out of the Champions League quarter-finals and finished sixth in the Premier League after a dismal run of two wins in their last 12 games, leading to questions about whether the Norwegian is the right man for the job. "I really believe in Ole," Herrera, who is tipped to join French champions Paris St Germain, told United's official website. "He's the right person. I really believe in (the coaching staff)... but I think there's a tough job ahead. The club will need time, confidence and support." Herrera, who announced the end of his five-year stint at United last week, highlighted how long it had taken United's rivals Liverpool to get to a position where they could challenge for silverware again. Liverpool, who finished second in the league, a point behind champions Manchester City this season, have reached the Champions League final for the second year in a row and will take on Tottenham Hotspur in the Madrid showpiece on June 1. "Liverpool are probably going to win the Champions League but... they haven't won one title in the five years I've been here," Herrera added. "They have done incredible work but the fans have given them time. That's what this club needs at the moment." The Spaniard also said United's players needed to take responsibility for the club's struggles and refused to blame Solskjaer or his predecessor Jose Mourinho for their abysmal season. "I think every one of us has to take responsibility for what we have done wrong," Herrera said. "It's very easy when a manager is sacked to blame someone else but it's the fault of every one of us. "When you've a bad season, 75% is the responsibility of the players. We've done bad things. We have done some good things but, for Manchester United, it's not enough."

'I believe in Ole' but needs time at Manchester United, says Ander Herrera

Premier League champions Manchester City said Tuesday they were concerned &nbsp;"individuals intent on damaging" the club may be behind a news report that European football's financial regulators are poised to recommend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-panel-to-recommend-man-city-champions-league-ban-report-218690">they be barred from the Champions League</a>.

European football's governing body UEFA and the Premier League launched an investigation this year after allegations made in German magazine Der Spiegel that the club broke Financial Fair Play rules.

The New York Times said Monday that members of the investigatory chamber of UEFA's financial control board, set up to analyze the accounts of clubs suspected of breaking cost-control regulations, met two weeks ago in Switzerland to finalize their conclusions.

"The investigatory panel’s leader, the former prime minister of Belgium Yves Leterme, will have the final say on the submission to a separate adjudicatory chamber, which could be filed as soon as this week. The body is expected to seek at least a one-season ban," said the Times.

However, City said they were fully co-operating with "the CFCB IC's (club financial control body investigatory chamber) ongoing investigation".

"In doing so the club is reliant on both the CFCB IC's independence and commitment to due process; and on UEFA's commitment of March 7 that it 'will make no further comment on the matter while the investigation is ongoing'," read their statement.

"The New York Times report citing 'people familiar with the case' is therefore extremely concerning.

"The implications are that either Manchester City's good faith in the CFCB IC is misplaced or the CFCB IC process is being misrepresented by individuals intent on damaging the club's reputation and its commercial interests. Or both."

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CLUB STATEMENT<a href="https://t.co/c2S8qXQmxv">https://t.co/c2S8qXQmxv</a>
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1128272847338647552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It was unclear if such a ban, if levied, would be enforced next season or in the 2020-21 campaign, the Times said, noting that with qualifying for Europe's most prestigious and lucrative club championship set to start in June there is little time to finalize a sanction.

Manchester City would also have the right to appeal such a ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

City were fined 60 million euros ($67.3 million) and subjected to squad, wage and spending caps in a 2014 settlement agreed with UEFA following a previous breach of the rules.

But the club says the claims made in Der Spiegel were an "organized and clear" attempt to damage its reputation. 
&nbsp;

Premier League champions Manchester City said Tuesday they were concerned "individuals intent on damaging" the club may be behind a news report that European football's financial regulators are poised to recommend they be barred from the Champions League.

Premier League champions Manchester City said Tuesday they were concerned "individuals intent on damaging" the club may be behind a news report that European football's financial regulators are poised to recommend they be barred from the Champions League. European football's governing body UEFA and the Premier League launched an investigation this year after allegations made in German magazine Der Spiegel that the club broke Financial Fair Play rules. The New York Times said Monday that members of the investigatory chamber of UEFA's financial control board, set up to analyze the accounts of clubs suspected of breaking cost-control regulations, met two weeks ago in Switzerland to finalize their conclusions. "The investigatory panel’s leader, the former prime minister of Belgium Yves Leterme, will have the final say on the submission to a separate adjudicatory chamber, which could be filed as soon as this week. The body is expected to seek at least a one-season ban," said the Times. However, City said they were fully co-operating with "the CFCB IC's (club financial control body investigatory chamber) ongoing investigation". "In doing so the club is reliant on both the CFCB IC's independence and commitment to due process; and on UEFA's commitment of March 7 that it 'will make no further comment on the matter while the investigation is ongoing'," read their statement. "The New York Times report citing 'people familiar with the case' is therefore extremely concerning. "The implications are that either Manchester City's good faith in the CFCB IC is misplaced or the CFCB IC process is being misrepresented by individuals intent on damaging the club's reputation and its commercial interests. Or both." CLUB STATEMENThttps://t.co/c2S8qXQmxv — Manchester City (@ManCity) May 14, 2019 × It was unclear if such a ban, if levied, would be enforced next season or in the 2020-21 campaign, the Times said, noting that with qualifying for Europe's most prestigious and lucrative club championship set to start in June there is little time to finalize a sanction. Manchester City would also have the right to appeal such a ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. City were fined 60 million euros ($67.3 million) and subjected to squad, wage and spending caps in a 2014 settlement agreed with UEFA following a previous breach of the rules. But the club says the claims made in Der Spiegel were an "organized and clear" attempt to damage its reputation.

'Fully cooperating in investigation': Manchester City release statement on Champions League ban threat

European football's financial regulators are poised to recommend that newly minted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-key-players-that-led-manchester-city-to-english-premier-league-glory-218210">Premier League champions Manchester City</a> be barred from the Champions League, the New York Times reported Monday.

European football's governing body UEFA and the Premier League launched an investigation this year after allegations made in German magazine Der Spiegel that the club broke Financial Fair Play rules.

Members of the investigatory chamber of UEFA's financial control board, set up to analyze the accounts of clubs suspected of breaking cost-control regulations, met two weeks ago in Switzerland to finalize their conclusions, the newspaper said.

"The investigatory panel’s leader, the former prime minister of Belgium Yves Leterme, will have the final say on the submission to a separate adjudicatory chamber, which could be filed as soon as this week. The body is expected to seek at least a one-season ban," the Times said.

It was unclear if such a ban, if levied, would be enforced next season or in the 2020-21 campaign, the Times said, noting that with qualifying for Europe's most prestigious and lucrative club championship set to start in June there is little time to finalize a sanction.

Manchester City would also have the right to appeal such a ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Manchester City vigorously denied any financial irregularities, saying in March they welcomed UEFA's investigation as an opportunity to clear their name.

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City, who were fined 60 million euros ($67.3 million) and subjected to squad, wage and spending caps in a 2014 settlement agreed with UEFA following a previous breach of the rules.

But the club says the claims made in Der Spiegel were an "organized and clear" attempt to damage its reputation.

European football's financial regulators are poised to recommend that newly minted Premier League champions Manchester City be barred from the Champions League, the New York Times reported Monday.

European football's financial regulators are poised to recommend that newly minted Premier League champions Manchester City be barred from the Champions League, the New York Times reported Monday. European football's governing body UEFA and the Premier League launched an investigation this year after allegations made in German magazine Der Spiegel that the club broke Financial Fair Play rules. Members of the investigatory chamber of UEFA's financial control board, set up to analyze the accounts of clubs suspected of breaking cost-control regulations, met two weeks ago in Switzerland to finalize their conclusions, the newspaper said. "The investigatory panel’s leader, the former prime minister of Belgium Yves Leterme, will have the final say on the submission to a separate adjudicatory chamber, which could be filed as soon as this week. The body is expected to seek at least a one-season ban," the Times said. It was unclear if such a ban, if levied, would be enforced next season or in the 2020-21 campaign, the Times said, noting that with qualifying for Europe's most prestigious and lucrative club championship set to start in June there is little time to finalize a sanction. Manchester City would also have the right to appeal such a ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Manchester City vigorously denied any financial irregularities, saying in March they welcomed UEFA's investigation as an opportunity to clear their name. × City, who were fined 60 million euros ($67.3 million) and subjected to squad, wage and spending caps in a 2014 settlement agreed with UEFA following a previous breach of the rules. But the club says the claims made in Der Spiegel were an "organized and clear" attempt to damage its reputation.

UEFA panel may recommend Manchester City Champions League ban: Report

As the clock ticked down on Liverpool's unsuccessful bid to win their first English title in 29 years, a defiant refrain echoed around Anfield as all four sides of the famous old stadium chanted "We shall not be moved, we're the team that's gonna win the European Cup".

Liverpool may have fallen just a point short in the title race after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-retain-premier-league-title-218154">Manchester City retained the Premier League crown with their 4-1 victory at Brighton</a>.

But the Anfield faithful were determined to remind the world that Sunday's 2-0 win against Wolves in their last domestic game of the season wasn't the end of an incredible campaign for Liverpool.

Jurgen Klopp's side hope to turn the agony of their title near-miss into the ecstasy of a sixth European Cup when they face Tottenham in the Champions League final on June 1.

Tuesday's incredible 4-0 win against Barcelona that erased a 3-0 first leg deficit and sent Liverpool to their second successive Champions League final, ensuring their last shot at winning the title for this season didn't feel quite so painful.

City's incredible consistency meant Liverpool have to settle for second place -- the fifth time they have been runners-up since they were last crowned kings of English football in 1990.

But Sadio Mane's double gave them 97 points -- the third highest total in Premier League history behind only City's tallies this season and last.

Liverpool, beaten only once all season in the league, also equalled the club's top-flight record of 30 wins, set over 42 matches in 1978-79, after recording a ninth consecutive league victory.

No wonder Liverpool were given a standing ovation when the final whistle sounded.

Ninety minutes earlier, under picture-perfect blue skies, fans arrived at Anfield more in hope than expectation.

Many Liverpool supporters were decked in the hastily made replicas of the 'Never give up' t-shirt Mohamed Salah wore during the post-match celebrations against Barcelona on Tuesday, while the PA system blared out Journey's 'Don't stop believing' before kick-off.

But, with even the most diehard Kopite expecting City to win at Brighton, the mood around Anfield was one of pride in Liverpool's season rather than genuine belief the afternoon would end in a title party.

With Liverpool and Tottenham's Champions League heroics showing anything is possible, Klopp had insisted one more football miracle couldn't be ruled out.

Ear-splitting noise

As ever, Liverpool made a fast start and Senegal winger Mane gave them hope of an astonishing finale in the 17th minute.

Mane started the move with a sweeping pass wide to Trent Alexander-Arnold on the right and the defender slipped the ball back to Jordan Henderson.

Delivering a precise return pass, Henderson sent Alexander-Arnold racing away and his low cross deflected into the path of Mane, who fired home from close-range.

The ear-splitting noise around Anfield spoke of renewed faith as Liverpool moved to the top of the as-it-stands table while City were being held by Brighton.

Ten minutes later there was an even louder roar when the news filtered through that Glenn Murray had put Brighton ahead.

Even Kenny Dalglish, the Liverpool manager when they last the won the title, was scrambling to check the score on his phone.

But, just as fans erupted in scarf-waving delight, seconds later they learned of Sergio Aguero's equaliser for City, triggering an agonised wail of frustration from supporters holding their heads in their hands.

After a false alarm when Liverpool fans celebrated what they wrongly thought was a second Brighton goal, it was the taunting cheers of Wolves supporters in one corner of the stadium that broke the news that City had scored again.

Needing a Brighton goal hundreds of miles away on the south-coast more than they needed to do anything else themselves, both Liverpool and the crowd were flat at the start of the second half.

When Riyad Mahrez effectively wrapped up the title with City's third goal, Wolves fans delighted in chanting "Raheem Sterling he's top of the league" in reference to the former Liverpool winger now playing for the champions.

By the time Mane turned in Alexander-Arnold's cross in the 81st minute, all thoughts had turned to the bid for European glory.

As the clock ticked down on Liverpool's unsuccessful bid to win their first English title in 29 years, a defiant refrain echoed around Anfield as all four sides of the famous old stadium chanted "We shall not be moved, we're the team that's gonna win the European Cup".

As the clock ticked down on Liverpool's unsuccessful bid to win their first English title in 29 years, a defiant refrain echoed around Anfield as all four sides of the famous old stadium chanted "We shall not be moved, we're the team that's gonna win the European Cup". Liverpool may have fallen just a point short in the title race after Manchester City retained the Premier League crown with their 4-1 victory at Brighton. But the Anfield faithful were determined to remind the world that Sunday's 2-0 win against Wolves in their last domestic game of the season wasn't the end of an incredible campaign for Liverpool. Jurgen Klopp's side hope to turn the agony of their title near-miss into the ecstasy of a sixth European Cup when they face Tottenham in the Champions League final on June 1. Tuesday's incredible 4-0 win against Barcelona that erased a 3-0 first leg deficit and sent Liverpool to their second successive Champions League final, ensuring their last shot at winning the title for this season didn't feel quite so painful. City's incredible consistency meant Liverpool have to settle for second place -- the fifth time they have been runners-up since they were last crowned kings of English football in 1990. But Sadio Mane's double gave them 97 points -- the third highest total in Premier League history behind only City's tallies this season and last. Liverpool, beaten only once all season in the league, also equalled the club's top-flight record of 30 wins, set over 42 matches in 1978-79, after recording a ninth consecutive league victory. No wonder Liverpool were given a standing ovation when the final whistle sounded. Ninety minutes earlier, under picture-perfect blue skies, fans arrived at Anfield more in hope than expectation. Many Liverpool supporters were decked in the hastily made replicas of the 'Never give up' t-shirt Mohamed Salah wore during the post-match celebrations against Barcelona on Tuesday, while the PA system blared out Journey's 'Don't stop believing' before kick-off. But, with even the most diehard Kopite expecting City to win at Brighton, the mood around Anfield was one of pride in Liverpool's season rather than genuine belief the afternoon would end in a title party. With Liverpool and Tottenham's Champions League heroics showing anything is possible, Klopp had insisted one more football miracle couldn't be ruled out. Ear-splitting noise As ever, Liverpool made a fast start and Senegal winger Mane gave them hope of an astonishing finale in the 17th minute. Mane started the move with a sweeping pass wide to Trent Alexander-Arnold on the right and the defender slipped the ball back to Jordan Henderson. Delivering a precise return pass, Henderson sent Alexander-Arnold racing away and his low cross deflected into the path of Mane, who fired home from close-range. The ear-splitting noise around Anfield spoke of renewed faith as Liverpool moved to the top of the as-it-stands table while City were being held by Brighton. Ten minutes later there was an even louder roar when the news filtered through that Glenn Murray had put Brighton ahead. Even Kenny Dalglish, the Liverpool manager when they last the won the title, was scrambling to check the score on his phone. But, just as fans erupted in scarf-waving delight, seconds later they learned of Sergio Aguero's equaliser for City, triggering an agonised wail of frustration from supporters holding their heads in their hands. After a false alarm when Liverpool fans celebrated what they wrongly thought was a second Brighton goal, it was the taunting cheers of Wolves supporters in one corner of the stadium that broke the news that City had scored again. Needing a Brighton goal hundreds of miles away on the south-coast more than they needed to do anything else themselves, both Liverpool and the crowd were flat at the start of the second half. When Riyad Mahrez effectively wrapped up the title with City's third goal, Wolves fans delighted in chanting "Raheem Sterling he's top of the league" in reference to the former Liverpool winger now playing for the champions. By the time Mane turned in Alexander-Arnold's cross in the 81st minute, all thoughts had turned to the bid for European glory.

Liverpool turn to Euro dreams as title bid ends in frustration

Manchester United must take "smart" decisions when signing new players during the close season and nurture their youth players so they can compete in the Premier League next season, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

A brief resurgence under Solskjaer gave United hope of finishing in the top four but they failed to qualify for the Champions League after winning only two of their last eight games.

The 20-times league winners <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-uniteds-top-four-hopes-over-after-draw-at-huddersfield-216200&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwieq6jc6ZDiAhVGpo8KHbwSBokQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1_sYIjlIQgXYzGGlSVp2D7">dropped down to sixth as a result and cannot finish higher than fifth on the final day</a>. Solskjaer said player injuries in the final weeks of the season cost United a top-four spot.

"We've got to recruit smart, we've got to keep blooding the youngsters and we'll be fine," Solskjaer told MUTV at the club's end-of-season awards night.

"This club is huge and the media and everyone's criticising us as soon as they've got a chance. We got a few injuries and it's been ups and downs for the last two months, but that's football'', he said.

"It's not like (playing the video game) Football Manager. You've got to deal with different stuff outside of football as well... But I've enjoyed it. It's a great challenge. I haven't gone to bed one night worrying about what's going to happen",&nbsp;Solskjaer added.

Defender Luke Shaw was named the club's player of the year but the English left-back said he would trade the award for a successful season with the team.

"It's obviously nice for me but I'd rather win no trophies and have a better season as a team. It's nice but we need to move on and focus on next season and what's to come'',&nbsp;Shaw said.

"I think for me personally it's probably been my best season since I've been here. I would have rather it had been a better season for the team but it wasn't meant to be", Shaw added.

United host relegated Cardiff City on Sunday in their final game of the season. 
&nbsp;

Manchester United must take "smart" decisions when signing new players during the close season and nurture their youth players so they can compete in the Premier League next season, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

Manchester United must take "smart" decisions when signing new players during the close season and nurture their youth players so they can compete in the Premier League next season, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said. A brief resurgence under Solskjaer gave United hope of finishing in the top four but they failed to qualify for the Champions League after winning only two of their last eight games. The 20-times league winners dropped down to sixth as a result and cannot finish higher than fifth on the final day. Solskjaer said player injuries in the final weeks of the season cost United a top-four spot. "We've got to recruit smart, we've got to keep blooding the youngsters and we'll be fine," Solskjaer told MUTV at the club's end-of-season awards night. "This club is huge and the media and everyone's criticising us as soon as they've got a chance. We got a few injuries and it's been ups and downs for the last two months, but that's football'', he said. "It's not like (playing the video game) Football Manager. You've got to deal with different stuff outside of football as well... But I've enjoyed it. It's a great challenge. I haven't gone to bed one night worrying about what's going to happen", Solskjaer added. Defender Luke Shaw was named the club's player of the year but the English left-back said he would trade the award for a successful season with the team. "It's obviously nice for me but I'd rather win no trophies and have a better season as a team. It's nice but we need to move on and focus on next season and what's to come'', Shaw said. "I think for me personally it's probably been my best season since I've been here. I would have rather it had been a better season for the team but it wasn't meant to be", Shaw added. United host relegated Cardiff City on Sunday in their final game of the season.

Manchester United must invest wisely in transfer market, says manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-broke-down-in-dressing-room-after-barcelonas-humiliating-defeat-to-liverpool-217028&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjv05yX3JDiAhVEQY8KHZnbDZkQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Gs4Kq4MMszx6hNHtOumvw">Barcelona </a>striker <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-looked-like-schoolboys-says-suarez-after-barcelona-crumble-against-liverpool-216911&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjd_czP25DiAhXR6nMBHZi4B4AQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw37o6UojrNQE_hWqvv7AdEp">Luis Suarez</a> is set to be sidelined for four to six weeks after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery to treat a medial meniscus injury, the club said on Friday.

The surgery brings Suarez's season to a premature end and the Uruguayan will miss their final two La Liga games and the Copa del Rey final against Valencia later this month.

"<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-luis-suarez-writes-himself-into-barca-history-philippe-coutinho-looks-dispensable-214823&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjd_czP25DiAhXR6nMBHZi4B4AQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3KvUVyGtJ65QrxZN_SQ48T">Luis Suarez</a> has a medial meniscus injury in his right knee and has been operated on by Dr (Ramon) Cugat, undergoing arthroscopic surgery under the supervision of the club's medical staff," a club statement read.

"The Uruguayan will be out for around four to six weeks. The <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/over-reliance-on-messi-or-over-confidence-what-went-wrong-for-barcelona-against-liverpool-217025&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjv05yX3JDiAhVEQY8KHZnbDZkQFjAAegQIDBAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw0bzDfhlZbCWR2hRZPaH69M">FC Barcelona </a>striker will miss the three remaining fixtures this season, the league games against Getafe and Eibar and the Copa del Rey final against Valencia on 25 May in Seville", the statement read.

It remains to be seen if he will be fit for Uruguay's Copa America campaign beginning with a June 16 match against Ecuador.

Suarez has scored 25 goals in 49 matches in all competitions this season, helping Barca wrap up their 26th La Liga title last month.

But his poor form in the Champions League, where he scored only one goal in 10 appearances, cost Barca who were knocked out of by his former club Liverpool, who overcame a 3-0 semi-final first-leg deficit to progress 4-3 on aggregate on Tuesday.

Barcelona striker Luis Suarez is set to be sidelined for four to six weeks after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery to treat a medial meniscus injury, the club said on Friday.

Barcelona striker Luis Suarez is set to be sidelined for four to six weeks after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery to treat a medial meniscus injury, the club said on Friday. The surgery brings Suarez's season to a premature end and the Uruguayan will miss their final two La Liga games and the Copa del Rey final against Valencia later this month. "Luis Suarez has a medial meniscus injury in his right knee and has been operated on by Dr (Ramon) Cugat, undergoing arthroscopic surgery under the supervision of the club's medical staff," a club statement read. "The Uruguayan will be out for around four to six weeks. The FC Barcelona striker will miss the three remaining fixtures this season, the league games against Getafe and Eibar and the Copa del Rey final against Valencia on 25 May in Seville", the statement read. It remains to be seen if he will be fit for Uruguay's Copa America campaign beginning with a June 16 match against Ecuador. Suarez has scored 25 goals in 49 matches in all competitions this season, helping Barca wrap up their 26th La Liga title last month. But his poor form in the Champions League, where he scored only one goal in 10 appearances, cost Barca who were knocked out of by his former club Liverpool, who overcame a 3-0 semi-final first-leg deficit to progress 4-3 on aggregate on Tuesday.

Barcelona striker Luis Suarez sidelined for up to six weeks after knee injury

Lucas Moura's last-gasp strike took Tottenham Hotspur to the Champions League final for the first time in their history on Wednesday, completing his hat-trick and sealing an incredible 3-2 win over Ajax to leave the Dutch side heartbroken.

Ajax's improbable European run seemed set to go on all the way to the final as they led 3-2 on aggregate deep in stoppage time in the second leg of the semi-final at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

That was when the ball broke to Lucas in the box and the Brazilian sent a low shot beyond the despairing dive of Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana to seal their comeback, making it 3-2 to them on the night, 3-3 on aggregate, and taking Mauricio Pochettino's men through on away goals.

The Ajax players slumped to the turf, their fans stunned, as they go out and Spurs advance to face fellow comeback kings Liverpool in an all-English final in Madrid on June 1.

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Tottenham will face Liverpool in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLfinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLfinal</a>
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Leading 1-0 after the first leg, the thrilling young Dutch side appeared to have killed the tie after captain Matthijs de Ligt and Hakim Ziyech both scored in the first half here.

That left Tottenham needing a comeback to match that of Liverpool against Barcelona the previous night, but in an even shorter amount of time.

A quickfire brace by Lucas early in the second half gave them something to cling to, before he struck the decisive blow, denying Ajax a first final since 1996.

Erik ten Hag's team, who had already eliminated the holders, Real Madrid, and Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus this season, were applauded by their devastated fans at full-time and must now somehow lift themselves to try to win the Dutch title.

They had been dealt a blow just minutes before kick-off when Brazilian winger David Neres pulled out of their starting line-up after the warm-up, his place taken by the young Dane, Kasper Dolberg.

Whirlwind start

That last-minute switch did not perturb the Dutch club, though. Far from it. Dusan Tadic moved to the left wing, and Ajax set about tearing into their opponents right from the off, just as they had done in the first leg.

They won a corner after Hugo Lloris had stretched to his left to beat away a Tadic shot, and from the delivery that followed from Lasse Schoene, De Ligt rose to head home a fifth-minute opener.

Spurs -- without Harry Kane but with Son Heung-min back after missing the first leg due to suspension -- did threaten an immediate reply as a Son cross hit the near post, but Ajax escaped and came again, a Tadic shot that fizzed just past the far post acting as a prelude for what was to follow in the 35th minute.

This time Tadic, the former Southampton player, cut the ball back for Ziyech, whose first-time shot on his left foot flew into the far corner from a difficult angle.

It was a wonderful goal, and it had surely killed the tie.

The Spurs fans were understandably subdued, and they would not have harboured too much hope in Fernando Llorente as the big striker replaced Victor Wanyama for the second half.

Yet the way Pochettino's side came back out after half-time echoed what Liverpool had done at Anfield 24 hours earlier.

They scored their first in the 55th minute, Lucas combining with Alli and slotting low past Onana.

Four minutes after that Onana made an improbable save from Llorente's effort inside the six-yard box, but the ball came back to Lucas and the Brazilian turned and managed to find a corner.

He wheeled away in celebration, all too aware that Tottenham were now just one goal away from completing the turnaround.

With such tension, Ajax no longer appeared so liberated, but Ziyech twice nearly scored again, grazing the post with a first-time shot and then hitting the same upright in the 79th minute.

Jan Vertonghen hit the bar at the other end, but just when it looked like Ajax would hang on, Lucas delivered the killer blow.

Lucas Moura's last-gasp strike took Tottenham Hotspur to the Champions League final for the first time in their history on Wednesday, completing his hat-trick and sealing an incredible 3-2 win over Ajax to leave the Dutch side heartbroken.

Lucas Moura's last-gasp strike took Tottenham Hotspur to the Champions League final for the first time in their history on Wednesday, completing his hat-trick and sealing an incredible 3-2 win over Ajax to leave the Dutch side heartbroken. Ajax's improbable European run seemed set to go on all the way to the final as they led 3-2 on aggregate deep in stoppage time in the second leg of the semi-final at the Johan Cruyff Arena. That was when the ball broke to Lucas in the box and the Brazilian sent a low shot beyond the despairing dive of Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana to seal their comeback, making it 3-2 to them on the night, 3-3 on aggregate, and taking Mauricio Pochettino's men through on away goals. The Ajax players slumped to the turf, their fans stunned, as they go out and Spurs advance to face fellow comeback kings Liverpool in an all-English final in Madrid on June 1. LATE DRAMA! 🤯🤯🤯 Tottenham will face Liverpool in the #UCLfinal — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 8, 2019 × Leading 1-0 after the first leg, the thrilling young Dutch side appeared to have killed the tie after captain Matthijs de Ligt and Hakim Ziyech both scored in the first half here. That left Tottenham needing a comeback to match that of Liverpool against Barcelona the previous night, but in an even shorter amount of time. A quickfire brace by Lucas early in the second half gave them something to cling to, before he struck the decisive blow, denying Ajax a first final since 1996. Erik ten Hag's team, who had already eliminated the holders, Real Madrid, and Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus this season, were applauded by their devastated fans at full-time and must now somehow lift themselves to try to win the Dutch title. They had been dealt a blow just minutes before kick-off when Brazilian winger David Neres pulled out of their starting line-up after the warm-up, his place taken by the young Dane, Kasper Dolberg. Whirlwind start That last-minute switch did not perturb the Dutch club, though. Far from it. Dusan Tadic moved to the left wing, and Ajax set about tearing into their opponents right from the off, just as they had done in the first leg. They won a corner after Hugo Lloris had stretched to his left to beat away a Tadic shot, and from the delivery that followed from Lasse Schoene, De Ligt rose to head home a fifth-minute opener. Spurs -- without Harry Kane but with Son Heung-min back after missing the first leg due to suspension -- did threaten an immediate reply as a Son cross hit the near post, but Ajax escaped and came again, a Tadic shot that fizzed just past the far post acting as a prelude for what was to follow in the 35th minute. This time Tadic, the former Southampton player, cut the ball back for Ziyech, whose first-time shot on his left foot flew into the far corner from a difficult angle. It was a wonderful goal, and it had surely killed the tie. The Spurs fans were understandably subdued, and they would not have harboured too much hope in Fernando Llorente as the big striker replaced Victor Wanyama for the second half. Yet the way Pochettino's side came back out after half-time echoed what Liverpool had done at Anfield 24 hours earlier. They scored their first in the 55th minute, Lucas combining with Alli and slotting low past Onana. Four minutes after that Onana made an improbable save from Llorente's effort inside the six-yard box, but the ball came back to Lucas and the Brazilian turned and managed to find a corner. He wheeled away in celebration, all too aware that Tottenham were now just one goal away from completing the turnaround. With such tension, Ajax no longer appeared so liberated, but Ziyech twice nearly scored again, grazing the post with a first-time shot and then hitting the same upright in the 79th minute. Jan Vertonghen hit the bar at the other end, but just when it looked like Ajax would hang on, Lucas delivered the killer blow.

Last-gasp Lucas Moura winner sends Tottenham into Champions League final

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/last-gasp-lucas-moura-winner-sends-tottenham-into-champions-league-final-217128">Lucas Moura conjured the second Champions League miracle</a> in 24 hours with a last-gasp winner to complete his hat-trick and a 3-2 win to send Tottenham Hotspur past a shattered Ajax Amsterdam into the final on away goals on Wednesday.

A day after Liverpool beat Barcelona 4-0 to overturn a 3-0 first-leg deficit, Tottenham came back from the dead after Ajax had looked certain to reach their first final for 23 years.

"I think that scoring the hat-trick. Three goals. If our players are superheroes, he is a super, super, superhero," Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino said of Moura's stellar night.

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When asked about his departure from the club, Pochettino said, "Yes, I am going to leave (Tottenham), or if I lose, maybe too."

Tottenham had suffered three consecutive defeats in all competitions before Wednesday's second leg and when Ajax led 2-0 at half-time, there was a celebratory mood inside the jam-packed Johan Cruyff Arena as Ajax fans' thoughts turned to Madrid.

But their joy turned into a nightmare as they were overwhelmed by a Tottenham side who dispensed with complicated tactics and simply threw the kitchen sink at their hosts.

"I learned a sentence here which is 'no pain, no gain'. And I think it's an amazing thing, because all the efforts we made in the last five years, it's today when you realize that the satisfaction'', Spurs'&nbsp;coach said.

Overwhelmed by the win, Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino added, "The emotion is amazing, thank you to football. My players are heroes - in the last year, I was telling everyone this group are heroes. The second half they were amazing.''

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📱 <a href="https://twitter.com/MoussaSissoko?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoussaSissoko</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> ⚪️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COYS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COYS</a> <a href="https://t.co/JpDWZQLYO6">pic.twitter.com/JpDWZQLYO6</a>
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"It's difficult to compete at this level. I am so grateful to be a coach. To be in football and to live this type of football'', Pochettino said.

Lucas Moura conjured the second Champions League miracle in 24 hours with a last-gasp winner to complete his hat-trick and a 3-2 win to send Tottenham Hotspur past a shattered Ajax Amsterdam into the final on away goals on Wednesday.

Lucas Moura conjured the second Champions League miracle in 24 hours with a last-gasp winner to complete his hat-trick and a 3-2 win to send Tottenham Hotspur past a shattered Ajax Amsterdam into the final on away goals on Wednesday. A day after Liverpool beat Barcelona 4-0 to overturn a 3-0 first-leg deficit, Tottenham came back from the dead after Ajax had looked certain to reach their first final for 23 years. "I think that scoring the hat-trick. Three goals. If our players are superheroes, he is a super, super, superhero," Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino said of Moura's stellar night. Good morning! #UCL ⚪️ #COYS pic.twitter.com/jvyxQ6FKVN — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) May 9, 2019 × When asked about his departure from the club, Pochettino said, "Yes, I am going to leave (Tottenham), or if I lose, maybe too." Tottenham had suffered three consecutive defeats in all competitions before Wednesday's second leg and when Ajax led 2-0 at half-time, there was a celebratory mood inside the jam-packed Johan Cruyff Arena as Ajax fans' thoughts turned to Madrid. But their joy turned into a nightmare as they were overwhelmed by a Tottenham side who dispensed with complicated tactics and simply threw the kitchen sink at their hosts. "I learned a sentence here which is 'no pain, no gain'. And I think it's an amazing thing, because all the efforts we made in the last five years, it's today when you realize that the satisfaction'', Spurs' coach said. Overwhelmed by the win, Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino added, "The emotion is amazing, thank you to football. My players are heroes - in the last year, I was telling everyone this group are heroes. The second half they were amazing.'' 🎵🎉 Dressing room delight! 🎉🎵 📱 @MoussaSissoko#UCL ⚪️ #COYS pic.twitter.com/JpDWZQLYO6 — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) May 8, 2019 × "It's difficult to compete at this level. I am so grateful to be a coach. To be in football and to live this type of football'', Pochettino said.

I am going to leave, says coach Mauricio Pochettino after Tottenham enter Champions League final

From Kane's halftime pep-talk to Moura's miracle, major takeaways form Spurs win over Ajax in semi-final

Liverpool's stunning victory over <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/we-looked-like-schoolboys-says-suarez-after-barcelona-crumble-against-liverpool-216911">Barcelona</a> in the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday was made possible by the belief manager Jurgen Klopp's has instilled in his squad, according to Jose Mourinho.

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-stun-messis-barcelona-to-enter-champions-league-final-216859">Liverpool produced one of the greatest comebacks in the competition's history to beat Barcelona 4-0</a>, overturning a three-goal first-leg deficit to advance to their second consecutive final with a 4-3 aggregate victory.

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/emotional-juergen-klopp-hails-unbelievable-triumph-over-barcelona-216907">"For me, this has one name -- Jurgen,</a>" Mourinho, who led Porto and Inter Milan to the Champions League title, told beIN Sports.

"This is about him. This is a reflection of his personality -- don't give up -- his fighting spirit, every player giving everything", Mourinho said.

"He's not crying because he's missing (injured) players, he's not crying because they're playing 50 or 60 matches a season... Today is about Juergen's mentality. This is not about tactics, not about philosophy. This is about heart and soul and fantastic empathy he has created with that group of players", he added.

Liverpool risked finishing the season without a trophy with Manchester City leading the Premier League title race with one game to go and Barcelona heavy favourites to advance to the final after a commanding win at the Nou Camp.

But the thrilling victory over the Spanish champions gave the Merseyside club a chance of winning a sixth European Cup when they face either Tottenham Hotspur or Ajax Amsterdam in the final on June 1.

Klopp's side were only the third team in the history of Europe's top club competition to come from three goals down after the first leg of a semi-final and progress, matching Panathinaikos in 1970-71 and Barcelona in 1985-86.

"I didn't expect (this result)," Mourinho, who also coached Chelsea, Real Madrid and Manchester United, added. "I said if it's possible, Anfield is one of the places to make it possible.

"They were at risk of finishing a fantastic season with nothing to celebrate and now they are one step away from being European champions", Mourinho added.

Liverpool's stunning victory over Barcelona in the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday was made possible by the belief manager Jurgen Klopp's has instilled in his squad, according to Jose Mourinho.

Liverpool's stunning victory over Barcelona in the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday was made possible by the belief manager Jurgen Klopp's has instilled in his squad, according to Jose Mourinho. Liverpool produced one of the greatest comebacks in the competition's history to beat Barcelona 4-0, overturning a three-goal first-leg deficit to advance to their second consecutive final with a 4-3 aggregate victory. "For me, this has one name -- Jurgen," Mourinho, who led Porto and Inter Milan to the Champions League title, told beIN Sports. "This is about him. This is a reflection of his personality -- don't give up -- his fighting spirit, every player giving everything", Mourinho said. "He's not crying because he's missing (injured) players, he's not crying because they're playing 50 or 60 matches a season... Today is about Juergen's mentality. This is not about tactics, not about philosophy. This is about heart and soul and fantastic empathy he has created with that group of players", he added. Liverpool risked finishing the season without a trophy with Manchester City leading the Premier League title race with one game to go and Barcelona heavy favourites to advance to the final after a commanding win at the Nou Camp. But the thrilling victory over the Spanish champions gave the Merseyside club a chance of winning a sixth European Cup when they face either Tottenham Hotspur or Ajax Amsterdam in the final on June 1. Klopp's side were only the third team in the history of Europe's top club competition to come from three goals down after the first leg of a semi-final and progress, matching Panathinaikos in 1970-71 and Barcelona in 1985-86. "I didn't expect (this result)," Mourinho, who also coached Chelsea, Real Madrid and Manchester United, added. "I said if it's possible, Anfield is one of the places to make it possible. "They were at risk of finishing a fantastic season with nothing to celebrate and now they are one step away from being European champions", Mourinho added.

Jurgen Klopp's mentality behind Liverpool's historic comeback, says Jose Mourinho

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-stun-messis-barcelona-to-enter-champions-league-final-216859">Liverpool produced one of the greatest comebacks in Champions League history to beat Barcelona 4-0</a> on Tuesday, overturning a three-goal first-leg deficit and advancing to their second successive final with a 4-3 aggregate victory at Anfield.&nbsp;

On overcoming the odds to crush Barcelona, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp said, "Going out there and putting in a performance like this on the pitch is unbelievable.''

He also mentioned, "I said to the boys before the game 'I don't think it's possible but because it's you then I think we have a chance.'

"Because they are mental giants, that's unbelievable, after the season we've played, the games we've had, the injuries we've had at this moment."

"If you go out there and ask who bet a penny on us, I don't think you'd find a lot of people. And then going out there and putting in a performance like this on the pitch is unbelievable," Klopp added.&nbsp;

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Your <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVBAR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVBAR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/carlsberg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@carlsberg</a> M̶a̶n̶ ̶o̶f̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶M̶a̶t̶c̶h̶... 
 
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Two goals each from stand-in forward Divock Origi and halftime substitute Georginio Wijnaldum left Lionel Messi and Barcelona utterly shell-shocked by a Liverpool performance full of passion, belief and determination.

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"I'm really proud to be the manager of this team, it's unbelievable what they did tonight, it's so special. <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/emotional-juergen-klopp-hails-unbelievable-triumph-over-barcelona-216907">I will remember it forever, 100%", Klopp added.</a>

The Catalans won the first leg&nbsp;4-1 and Uruguay international the 32-year-old Luis Suarez admonished his team for letting a huge lead slip away from them once again.

Barcelona striker Suarez compared his team to schoolboys playing against a well oiled Liverpool side.&nbsp;

"For their fourth goal we looked like schoolboys, we have to be ready for all the criticism that is going to rain down on us now," Suarez told reporters after a miserable return to his former club, where he spent three years before joining Barca.

"We are very sad, we are in a lot of pain, we feel this pain even though we are professionals", Suarez added.

Barcelona head coach Ernesto Valverde seemingly unhappy after the defeat, he said,&nbsp;''They've been really strong, they played really well and we've got to congratulate them on the performance they put up in the tie as a whole."

"It's a terrible result for our fans and for ourselves.''

"We didn't expect a situation like this, this is what's happened to us, it's really unfortunate but credit due to Liverpool", Valverde&nbsp;added.

Liverpool produced one of the greatest comebacks in Champions League history to beat Barcelona 4-0 on Tuesday, overturning a three-goal first-leg deficit and advancing to their second successive final with a 4-3 aggregate victory at Anfield.

Liverpool produced one of the greatest comebacks in Champions League history to beat Barcelona 4-0 on Tuesday, overturning a three-goal first-leg deficit and advancing to their second successive final with a 4-3 aggregate victory at Anfield. On overcoming the odds to crush Barcelona, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp said, "Going out there and putting in a performance like this on the pitch is unbelievable.'' He also mentioned, "I said to the boys before the game 'I don't think it's possible but because it's you then I think we have a chance.' "Because they are mental giants, that's unbelievable, after the season we've played, the games we've had, the injuries we've had at this moment." "If you go out there and ask who bet a penny on us, I don't think you'd find a lot of people. And then going out there and putting in a performance like this on the pitch is unbelievable," Klopp added. Your #LIVBAR @carlsberg M̶a̶n̶ ̶o̶f̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶M̶a̶t̶c̶h̶... ...a truly remarkable TEAM performance. ✊ The Reds. ❤ pic.twitter.com/HMMMQbvWj8 — Liverpool FC (@LFC) May 7, 2019 × Two goals each from stand-in forward Divock Origi and halftime substitute Georginio Wijnaldum left Lionel Messi and Barcelona utterly shell-shocked by a Liverpool performance full of passion, belief and determination. 🙌 B O S S 🙌 pic.twitter.com/kodFUlubcx — Liverpool FC (@LFC) May 7, 2019 × "I'm really proud to be the manager of this team, it's unbelievable what they did tonight, it's so special. I will remember it forever, 100%", Klopp added. The Catalans won the first leg 4-1 and Uruguay international the 32-year-old Luis Suarez admonished his team for letting a huge lead slip away from them once again. Barcelona striker Suarez compared his team to schoolboys playing against a well oiled Liverpool side. "For their fourth goal we looked like schoolboys, we have to be ready for all the criticism that is going to rain down on us now," Suarez told reporters after a miserable return to his former club, where he spent three years before joining Barca. "We are very sad, we are in a lot of pain, we feel this pain even though we are professionals", Suarez added. Barcelona head coach Ernesto Valverde seemingly unhappy after the defeat, he said, ''They've been really strong, they played really well and we've got to congratulate them on the performance they put up in the tie as a whole." "It's a terrible result for our fans and for ourselves.'' "We didn't expect a situation like this, this is what's happened to us, it's really unfortunate but credit due to Liverpool", Valverde added.

'We looked like schoolboys', says Suarez after Barcelona crumble against Liverpool 