In Video: Eubank Jr and Benn exchange final words | Slot's call for Liverpool focus | Back Pages Tonight

Back Pages: Liverpool Close to History-Making Title, Eubank Jr’s Weight Concerns, and More

In tonight’s episode of Back Pages, we take a look at the sports stories making headlines in the morning’s newspapers. Joining us are ESPN senior writer Mark Ogden and The Daily Mail’s football editor Ian Ladyman.

Liverpool on the Brink of History

Mark Ogden of ESPN begins by discussing Liverpool’s chances of winning their record-equalling 20th league title with just one point needed against Tottenham at Anfield. Anna Slot, Liverpool’s star player, has warned rivals that his side will be even better next season.

"I think [Liverpool] have had a great first half of the season, maybe their great players have had a good run,’ Ogden said. "But in the second half of the season, they haven’t been quite as good. I think they need to make some changes to the squad in the summer… they need a new right back, a left back, maybe someone else up front."

Eubank Jr’s Weight Concerns

We also discussed the weigh-in drama surrounding Chris Eubank Jr’s fight against Connor Benn at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Eubank Jr failed to make the weight by half an ounce, leading to concerns over his drastic weight loss.

"It’s a huge ask for City ahead of next summer, a complete rebuild," Ladyman said. "They’ve already bought three or four players in January, they’ll buy three or four more in the summer. It’s a heck of a rebuild… Can Arsenal improve as much as they need to? What will happen to the teams who’ve done brilliantly this season to get in the Champions League?"

Mo Salah’s Scouting Days

The Guardian wrote about Mo Salah’s exploits as a scout, with the Liverpool star reportedly becoming a scout to identify talented young players.

"It’s great to see him back," Ogden said. "He’s been doing it for a while now, and it’s great to see his enthusiasm and willingness to learn."

Copa del Rey Controversy

In Spain, Real Madrid and Barcelona are set to face off in the Copa del Rey final, but the match is being overshadowed by controversy. Real Madrid released a video showing alleged refereeing mistakes, with some even considering a boycott.

"This is just crazy," Ogden said. "The referees are giving a press conference before the game, which is unheard of. Real Madrid are trying to flex their muscles, but it’s all rooted in the case of Barcelona allegedly paying referees over 17 years. It’s a lot of rubbish, really."

Forest Hunts for FA Cup Glory

Finally, we took a look ahead to the FA Cup semi-final between Forest and Manchester City. Forest is in a brilliant position, hunting down a place in the Champions League. The team has won the FA Cup only once since 1959.

"It’s full of opportunity," Ladyman said. "Forest haven’t won the FA Cup since 1959, so this is a great chance for them to make up for that."