Premier League press conference highlights: Klopp defends Trent

Stay up to date with all the latest Premier League news with our round-up of the key talking points from today's top-flight press conferences.

'Nothing wrong' with Trent claim

Jurgen Klopp has defended Trent Alexander-Arnold after he ignited a row by claiming that Liverpool's trophy wins mean more to their fans than Manchester City's successes.

He said: "I am not sure how often we have to say in this club how often we respect City.

"Trent understands that but he is a Liverpool fan, he stood on the sides before the pitch. Our slogan 'this means more' means it means more to us.

"Two years ago, we had a parade after losing the Champions League the night before and the Premier League. Tell me a city that would do this where it looks like we won?

"This club is special to us. So if we feel it, why not say it? It's how he feels. I got told about it. I am pretty sure he showed total respect as well.

"You love these interviews when someone says what they think and the whole world [reacts]. It's still allowed to think what we want. Nothing wrong with what Trent said in my view."

Guardiola expects Klopp reunion

Pep Guardiola does not think that this will be the last time he faces Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who will leave Anfield at the end of the season.

He said: "I completely respect his decision. I spoke with him and had the feeling he will be back sooner or later.

"He loves football and he explained perfectly the reason why. In the Premier League, it will be the last time but maybe we will meet in the FA Cup."

Guardiola was also asked about his rivalry with Klopp, which stretches back to their time competing against each other in the Bundesliga.

He said: "He doesn't play but the way he makes his teams play football, you always learn.

"It was always a pleasure and it will be on Sunday as well."

Ange aiming for top

Ange Postecoglou is not interested in setting for fifth position in the Premier League despite the potential of it being enough to qualify for next season's Champions League.

English clubs may have an extra spot to play for if their representatives do well enough in Europe this term but the Spurs boss wants his side to aim for the top.

He said: "I don't see the sense in trying to aim for something other than number one. What's the point? I'm not built to build for anything other than the top.

"If I fall short, then that’s on me, but I'm not going to create a scenario where I'm happy with anything other than the best."

Postecoglou also claims he does not see Champions League qualification as a prize in itself.

He said: "It's not a Willy Wonka golden ticket. It just gets you a year [in the competition] but if you don’t grow from that, then it's pointless.

"We're not going to be in it for participation. We’re in it to win things."

Rashford available

Erik Ten Hag has confirmed that Jonny Evans and Marcus Rashford will be fit to face Everton on Saturday.

Both players were substituted during last week's Manchester derby but have now recovered.

Ten Hag said: "That's the good news, they recovered after the derby, so they are available.

"The rest is the same squad apart from Omari Forson. He dropped out, he has an injury."

Ten Hag also gave fitness updates on other recent absentees.

He said: "Mason Mount I think is in a good spell now and he will return shortly, after the international break.

"Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka I expect to be available for our game against Liverpool. [Rasmus] Hojlund as well."

Emery expects

Unai Emery has backed his Aston Villa side to compete on two fronts this season.

The Villans face their Champions League qualification rivals Tottenham on Sunday, just three days after facing Ajax in Amsterdam in the Europa Conference League.

Emery said: "We are being very demanding. Like on Thursday we played a very demanding match in an exciting moment against Ajax.

"We did a big effort. When you want to get to a higher level in our way as a club, as a team and as a coach, you have to try to understand the level and play a lot of matches.

"We have to try to get good performances with the players in our tactical structure.

"We are in a key moment for this season."

Trippier talk

Eddie Howe has revealed Kieran Trippier will be miss at least two matches for Newcastle with injury.

And the full-back's absence also casts doubt on his availability for England's matches against Brazil and Belgium later this month.

Howe said: "Kieran isn't too bad. It is a minor injury but the scan showed enough to keep him out of the next two games.

"We hope he will be back for the first game after the international break but that is not guaranteed.

"There is every chance [to return after international break] and he is keen to stay with the group. That highlights his leadership qualities.

"As far as I know he will not be going away with England."