"It's what you want if you start the Champions League season – you want to finish top eight," Slot began. Clearly, wherever you stand on the problems that have blighted their Premier League title defence, Slot's team remain a force on the continent. Article continues below“I think in the Champions League teams are much more open," Gordon said when asked to describe the differences. I think in the Premier League it’s become more physical than I’ve ever known it to be. Something special could be brewing with regards to the Champions League this term but working out the kinks domestically is what really takes precedent now.