In Video: Arsenal and Aston Villa reach Champions League Quarter-Finals | Back Pages Tonight

Back Pages: A Look at the Sports Stories in the Mornung’s Newspapers

Tonight, we’re joined by David Orstein and Henry Winter to take a look at the sports stories in Monday’s newspapers.

Villa’s Champions League Joy

Aston Villa’s victory over Manchester United in the Champions League has sent shockwaves through the football world. The Villans, led by Manager Unai Emery, have been a force to be reckoned with since their January transfer window signings, including Marcus Rashford and Saenno, who have both been in impressive form. With a quarterfinal spot secured, Villa will face Paris Saint-Germain in the next round, a daunting task indeed.

"I think it’s quarterfinals now of the Champions League, of the FA Cup, they’re pushing for top five in the Premier League, which would earn them qualification into the Champions League again next season," David Orstein said. "It’s really exciting times at Villa Park, the atmosphere is amazing, and I wouldn’t put it past Emery to put up another victory there."

Rashford’s Integration

Henry Winter, who broke the news of Marcus Rashford’s intention to leave Manchester United, commented on his integration at Aston Villa. "Marcus Rashford is playing with a smile on his face again… he’s playing higher up the pitch, he’s got attacking full-backs behind him, and that makes a difference. He is a threat, and he’s clearly and very quickly built up an intelligent understanding with Saenno."

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Injury

Bad news for Liverpool as Trent Alexander-Arnold has been ruled out of the Carabao Cup final due to injury, a fresh blow to the Reds’ chances of winning their first trophy in over 70 years. "I think the pendulum just edged a little bit back towards Newcastle, who are already on the verge of their first trophy," Henry said. "Eddie Howe is the perfect man to tap into the enthusiasm of the fans, without letting himself or his players get carried away."

Jim Ratcliffe’s Pay Cuts

Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United, has declared war on the club’s bloated wage bill, aiming to slash player salaries. The news has sent shockwaves through the football world, with some questioning the feasibility of his plan. "It’s not a day that passes without a Manchester United-Jim Ratcliffe story, but if Manchester United are intelligent in their recruitment, they can find good players on lower salaries… it’s not about cutting costs, it’s about winning games, and it’s about staying at the top table."

Back Pages

That’s all for tonight’s Back Pages. Join us again on Thursday night for a reaction to the Manchester United game, with Jonathan Lou from the Guardian and Telegraph joining us live. Don’t miss it!