Martin Keown predicts long night as he speaks out on Tottenham v Manchester United
Tottenham are set to face Manchester United in the Europa League final, with everything on the line.
The Premier League duo are desperate for a win to salvage Champions League qualification after a dismal season, sitting just above the relegation zone.
Tottenham could either secure their first trophy since 2008 or end the campaign without any European football after one of their lowest-ever finishes.
For Spurs’ North London rivals Arsenal, this is a nightmare final, as both teams have a historic hatred rivalry with the Gunners, but Martin Keown has made a surprise prediction.
Keown backs Tottenham in Europa League final
Former Arsenal defender Keown was a legendary player on the other side of North London, and is unpopular among Spurs fans.
However, he has put his allegiances aside to give his verdict on the Europa League final, and has admitted that he believes Tottenham will win.
Speaking on BBC Match of the Day, Keown claimed that he could see Spurs beating Man United, with the Red Devils potentially playing for a draw.
| Position | Club | Games played | Goal difference | Points |
| 16. | Manchester United | 37 | -12 | 39 |
| 17. | Tottenham | 37 | +2 | 38 |
| 18. | Ipswich Town | 37 | -44 | 22 |
“I think Spurs will win it,” Keown stated.
“I honestly do. I know it could be a long night, maybe Manchester United will be looking for extra time and penalties, but I feel that Spurs can win this.”
Tottenham must avoid extra time against Man United
Keown has highlighted that Manchester United may push for extra time and penalties, and this is with good reason.
Despite their woeful season, United have experience of winning after 90 minutes, having beaten Arsenal in the FA Cup on penalties, while their victory over Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals saw them remarkably score several goals in extra time.
They may be better equipped to last 120 minutes, while Tottenham’s attacking style and injuries could see them tire out in normal time.
If Spurs are to win, it seems likely that they will need to ensure they do it within 90 minutes, but having done it three times this season already, this is far from impossible for Ange Postecoglou’s side.