'Not on any planet is it the equivalent' - Ange Postecoglou rejects Man Utd comparison and hits out at critics for trying to 'diminish' Tottenham's Europa League run

Ahead of Tottenham's clash against Bodo/Glimt, head coach Postecoglou criticised those who have claimed that his side would be sneaking into the Champions League via the back door if they win this season's Europa League. He also said if Spurs won the competition, it would not be the equivalent of Manchester United winning last season's FA Cup.

He told reporters: "I've sensed, which is not surprising because I've said before that this is the way this club is perceived, that people are almost trying to diminish it in some respects. I've heard people say it's the equivalent of Man United winning the FA Cup. No it isn't. I'm sorry. Not on any planet is it the equivalent. Others suggest that maybe we're not worthy of Champions League. Things that are designed to diminish what's ahead of us, which is an unbelievable opportunity. Irrespective of how this season has gone, we have generations of fans who want this more than anything else, to share a special moment with people that they love. This season could have gone very differently and we could be flying in the league, but that doesn't make the opportunity any different. What we have before us is the semifinal of a European competition with an opportunity to get to a final, win a trophy and get Champions League football. I just think for the players and everyone involved at the football club it's a brilliant opportunity."

This Europa League run is likely to be boom or bust for Postecoglou. If he fails to win it, he is almost certain to be sacked this summer and even if the Australian lifts the trophy, it may not be enough to save himself at Tottenham - who sit 16th in the Premier League. But if they were to win it, it would be a huge achievement and would bring to an end their 17-year wait for silverware.

Tottenham host Bodo/Glimt in the first leg of this Europa League semi-final on Thursday before heading to Norway for the return fixture on May 8.