In Video: Kevin De Bruyne to snub Man City over Club World Cup | Back Pages Tonight

Back Pages Tonight: A First Look at the Sports Stories

Joining us on Back Pages tonight are Jonathan, the Guardian’s sports writer, and Miguel Delaney, the Independent’s chief football writer. We’ll be diving into the morning’s newspapers to bring you the latest sports news and stories.

Vardy’s Swansong

We begin with the Telegraph’s front page, featuring a story on Jamie Vardy’s decision to leave Leicester City after 13 years. The 38-year-old striker has announced that he will be leaving, but not retiring, with a desire to return to the Premier League next season. Jonathan weighs in on the timing of the announcement, suggesting it might be to alert other clubs to his availability or to give him a proper farewell. Miguel notes that Vardy’s output has declined in recent years, but he still has the potential to do a job at a high level. They discuss his legacy in the Premier League and his popular image as a "legend".

De Bruyne’s Decision

The Express and Telegraph also feature Kevin De Bruyne, who is set to snub Manchester City’s Club World Cup participation. Jonathan thinks the timing of the announcement has been unfortunate, as De Bruyne was hurt not to be offered a new contract and now seems to be sending a message to the football world. Miguel notes that this reflects the views of many players about the Club World Cup and the pressure it puts on players to play in the competition.

Eubank Jr. vs. Ben

Before the big fight between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn, Miguel reviews a piece in the Telegraph by Simon Briggs, which focuses on the strained relationship between Eubank Jr. and his father, Chris Sr. Jonathan thinks this is part of the sales pitch for the fight, but Miguel believes it’s a genuine reflection of the emotions involved.

Bruno Fernandez for Player of the Year

Daily Mail’s Ian Ladyman has written a piece arguing that Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes should be awarded the player of the year title. Jonathan sees the logic behind the argument, but thinks Salah or Haaland would be more deserving. Miguel believes there’s an "United premium" in play, where Fernandes’ impact on the team is amplified by playing for a big club.

Azard and United

Martin Ziggler’s exclusive in the Times reveals that United lost out on signing Eden Hazard in 2012 due to refusing to pay his agent a secret multi-million pound payment.

Relegation Records

Miguel’s piece in the Independent examines whether the trend of promoted clubs being relegated the following season will continue. He notes that Southampton and Derby have become a laughing stock, and that there’s a growing financial gap between the Premier League and the EFL.

That’s it for tonight’s show. Join us tomorrow when Mark Ogd and Ian Ladyman will be our guests.