Why Tottenham may need to support Arsenal in the Champions League after last-16 draw

Tottenham could be forced to support Arsenal's UEFA Champions League endeavours this season for their very own benefit.

Mikel Arteta's side were the fourth team out of the hat during Monday's round of 16 draw and will face Portuguese side FC Porto over two legs for a place in this season's quarter-finals. Having topped Group B after winning four of their six games, the Gunners can enter the knockout stages following the upcoming festive period in a confident mood, given their recent form on all fronts.

As for Spurs, their hopes of European football have diminished every so slightly over the past few weeks, with the recent pick-up seen by Aston Villa, Manchester City and Liverpool, resulting in a slide down the top from their once-seen occupation at the top of the Premier League pile.

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However, with next season's UEFA Champions League altering it's format in a move described as a 'freshening up' of Europe's elite tournament, the Lilywhites could now be tempted to cheer on their North London rivals to help improve their chances of playing in the competition next season.

In a move that is simple to explain, the Premier League could receive one extra spot in the 2024/25 competition based on how English teams compared to other nations this season. If Arsenal and Manchester City reach the latter stages of the knockout rounds that could therefore mean fifth place in the Premier League could collect an extra spot.

Ange Postecoglou's men are currently fifth in the table and have performed well thus far this season, but face stern opposition to