Ange Postecoglou gives blunt response to Manchester United's exit from Europe

Ange Postecoglou says his Tottenham side are not merely aiming for fifth spot as the Australian offered a blunt response when pressed on Manchester United's exit from Europe.

United were dumped out of the Champions League on Tuesday night and their 1-0 reverse against Bayern Munich ensured they finished bottom of Group A. That means there will be no Europa League for Erik ten Hag and his misfiring squad.

Newcastle suffered the same fate 24 hours later and they also go on without European football this season. It may yet have a drastic impact on their Premier League rivals.

ALSO READ: United will consider sales after European exit

ALSO READ: Keane has made his thoughts on Potter known

Due to a European-wide ranking system, there would theoretically be five Champions League spots up for grabs next season if English clubs perform well enough in European competition. However, that proposition has taken a dent with United and Newcastle crashing out at the first hurdle.

Tottenham, meanwhile, are locked in an exciting battle for the top four and they have breathed life into the Premier League with their approach under the ex-Celtic manager. Postecoglou has been good value when speaking to the media and that was on full show in his latest press chat.

When the Australian was asked whether he was frustrated about what he saw from United and Newcastle - with the potential knock-on impact for his men - he replied in a typically forthright manner. Postecoglou said: "Nah, not really. I'm not aiming for fifth spot, mate. So we'll see."

Heading into the latest Premier League round of matches, there are 11 points between table-topping Liverpool, who welcome arch-rivals United to Anfield on Sunday afternoon, and Brighton in eighth