FEW would have expected relegation from the English Premier League to cloud the thoughts of Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City during their Uefa Cup forays this season.
But Europe has become a distraction with both clubs currently in the bottom six.
The irony of the situation will not be lost on fans of Portsmouth, comfortably ensconced domestically in mid-table, but who will exit the tournament even if they beat Dutch side Heerenveen.
Despite just failing to beat AC Milan at Fratton Park, Portsmouth are already out after losing to Germany’s Wolfsburg, who now travel to Italy knowing they and their opponents are already through.
Former Pompey coach Harry Redknapp’s new side, Spurs, are in contrast still interested in a competition they won in 1972 and 1984 — though Premiership survival is the priority as they are just a point above the drop zone.
Spurs lie second in Group D behind Italy’s Udinese going into tomorrow’s game at home to Spartak Moscow, but avoiding defeat will be enough to go through as the top three sides all advance.
Mark Hughes’ Manchester City are already through from Group A, which they top with seven points from three games, ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Spain to face Real Santander.
But the heat is on at home with City just ahead of third-bottom Sunderland on goal difference.
In Group F, Hamburg, coached by former Spurs boss Martin Jol, host Aston Villa with both sides through alongside Ajax.
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