Postecoglou, like United head coach Ruben Amorim, has made no secret of the fact that the European final is his top priority, with the two worst teams outside the relegation zone using Premier League fixtures to get minutes into the legs of some players and as opportunities to rest or protect others.

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou was relieved as his players were unscathed after their game against Aston Villa Tottenham Hotspur suffered yet another defeat in the Premier League on Friday night.