Irish Daily Mirror

GUNNERS’ FRIENDLY FIRE

- BY JOHN CROSS

UNAI EMERY is flying in Austrian opponents for a behindclos­ed-doors friendly today.

The Arsenal boss is worried about the three-week gap from the end of the season to next week’s Europa

League final.

There is concern that Arsenal will lack match sharpness and

Emery has lined up Lampard in pole position to become his successor at Stamford Bridge.

Sarri said: “If the situation is like this I want to go immediatel­y. You cannot . . 10 months of work and then I have to play everything in 90 minutes? It’s not right. It’s not the right way. You’re either happy about my work or you’re not happy.”

The Italian’s long-term future has been in doubt for much of the campaign and the Europa League final – seen as win-or-bust by many – looks increasing­ly likely to be his Linz to fire up his side at the London Colney training ground. Emery (below) stressed the importance of beating Chelsea to return to the Champions League. He said: “We finished behind them in the league and our ambition is to reduce the difference with them in all the competitio­ns. Our first possibilit­y is in this final.” last game in charge of Chelsea. Derby County boss Lampard would be a hugely popular choice with Chelsea fans.

Juventus have Sarri on their shortlist to replace Max Allegri (above) and that could give the former Napoli boss a route out if the Italian champions pay £5million compensati­on. Roma are also interested.

Sarri added: “I have to speak to my club first of all after the final. I want to know if they’re happy with me or not.”

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