Football Daily

John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball talk commentary life. From Ian’s penchant for pies at Celtic to whether the ‘dull’ Premier League should have play-offs to make it more interesting. One listener sets a new record for clubs with a slash in their names, and there’s a whole heap of controversy in a Clash of the Commentators basement battle. Plus, BBC Sport chief football writer Phil McNulty joins for the Great Glossary of Football Commentary.02:55 Who ate all the pies? 05:40 Would Arsenal fans rather have Saka or Gabriel? 11:35 5 Live’s weekend commentaries 14:10 Should the ‘dull’ Premier League have play-offs? 20:35 A new record for clubs with a slash in their names 28:10 Controversy in Clash of the Commentators 37:20 Phil McNulty joins for the Great GlossaryBBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this weekend: Fri 2000 England women v Belgium in the UEFA Women's Nations League, Fri 1915 Wales women v Denmark on the BBC Sport website, Sat 1500 Crystal Palace v Brighton in the Premier League, Sat 1730 Aston Villa v Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, Sun 1400 Fulham v Liverpool in the Premier League, Sun 1400 Brentford v Chelsea on Radio 5 Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Tottenham v Southampton on the BBC Sport website, Sun 1630 Man Utd v Man City in the Premier League.

Chelsea and England defender Lucy Bronze speaks exclusively to Alex Scott about her experience being autistic and living with ADHD.Lucy's mum, Diane, had long suspected she may be autistic, but it wasn't until four years ago that Bronze was officially diagnosed as being autistic and living with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).Lucy has had outstanding success as a footballer, both at home and abroad, and during this chat she tells Alex how being neurodivergent has impacted her life both on and off the pitch and why some of her differences have been her strengths.TIMECODES: 1:02 - On being diagnosed as autistic and ADHD four years ago. 3:13 - The process of getting diagnosed 5:00 - On her most notable neurodivergent traits 7:10 - Do her teammates know? 9:20 - Being ‘obsessed’ with football and how her differences have been her strengths. 10:26 - How does it affect her on the football pitch? 12:25 - Masking and copying the behaviours of Jill Scott. 15:54 - Her experiences of playing abroad and being in diverse environments. 16:50 - Being a role model to younger players 19:55 - On the diagnosis helping to understand who she is, not change who she is. 22:25 - Why is she ready to talk about it now? 24:45 - Becoming an ambassador for the National Autistic Society to help with "raising awareness" and "getting rid of the stigma" around it.

The trio are back together as John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball talk commentary life. Expect more football lookalikes, a tight Clash of the Commentators and which football terms will make it into the Great Glossary of Football Commentary?04:35 More clubs with a slash in their name 07:50 The famous ‘One team in Tallinn’ match 11:20 Another soundalike to test your ears 17:15 An update on the Golden Mic goal ratios 20:05 Ali explains his ‘Bruce-Burglar’ nickname 25:00 Ian looking forward to a Celtic pie 31:20 The guys are ‘all back’ for Clash of the Commentators 37:50 Another ‘top corner’ term goes in the Great GlossaryBBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this weekend: Sat 1215 Fulham v Crystal Palace in the FA Cup, Sat 1500 Celtic v Hearts in the Scottish Premiership, Sat 1715 Brighton v Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup, Sun 1330 Preston v Aston Villa in the FA Cup.

Sir Kenny Dalglish, Chris Sutton and Alan Shearer are among the guests as Kelly Cates looks back on Blackburn's famous title win in 1995.Midfielder Mark Atkins explains how the club was rejuvenated by owner Jack Walker's investment, while Rob Coar, then club chairman, gives the view from the boardroom.And is it fair to say the club bought the title? Football finance expert Kieran Maguire goes through the figures. TIMECODES 10:00 Mark Atkins on Blackburn's redevelopment; 15:20 Alan Shearer on his famous partnership with Chris Sutton; 29:00 Sir Kenny Dalglish's reflections as manager; 50:00 Robert Coar's view from the boardroom 01:05:00 Kieran Maguire on Blackburn's finances that season.

John Murray & Ian Dennis are joined by former BBC Wales football correspondent Rob Phillips. They discuss his journey following the Wales national team and seeing Gareth Bale’s rise from the youth team. Herr Chapman claims another sticky-handed victim dipping into their sweets on the radio. More football lookalikes, England v Wales in Clash of the Commentators and there’s a high bar to get into the Great Glossary of Football Commentary.03:00 Rob Phillips’ journey following Wales 09:50 Following Gareth Bale’s rise from the start 19:50 Herr Chapman is at it again… 21:40 John’s Mike Gatting incident 24:05 More football lookalikes & soundalikes 29:10 Play-by-play commentary sharing 36:20 England v Wales in Clash of the Commentators 45:20 What will enter the Great Glossary?BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this weekend: Fri 1945 England v Albania in World Cup qualifier, Sun 1430 Man City v Chelsea in the Women’s Super League, Mon 1945 England v Latvia in World Cup qualifier.

NFL legend and Burnley co-owner JJ Watt chats to Mark Chapman. They discuss everything from bench pressing with the Burnley players to the uncertainty of the NFL draft. Watt opens up on why he decided to invest in Burnley – and why once he did so, he was determined to win over the fans, just as he did after moving to Houston as an American footballer. They also discuss goalkeeper James Trafford, the difference between sports that do and do not have relegation and the contrasting schedule between the NFL and the EFL.TIMECODES 0 mins: JJ’s interest in learning about the business of football 4 mins: The importance of community when you join a club 5 mins: The danger element of investing in a sport that has relegation 8 mins: The insight that JJ can offer the board as a former professional athlete. 12 mins: James Trafford – and the art of goalkeeping 16 mins: The difference in football and NFL schedules 19 mins: JJ’s experiences in the NFL draft 25 mins: The big salaries paid to sportsmen and how they handle them 26 mins: The importance of giving back5 Live/Sports Extra Commentaries this week:Wednesday 19th March – Manchester City v Chelsea – Women’s Champions League Quarter Final – 8pm KO on 5 Live Thursday 20th March – Greece v Scotland – Nations League – 7.45pm KO on 5 Live Friday 21st March – England v Albania – World Cup Qualifier – 7.45pm KO on 5 Live

Is the tension between World Cup co-hosts USA, Canada and Mexico a concern? Can Comoros complete the ultimate underdog story? Plus, will Chris Wood and Erling Haaland be firing in the goals for New Zealand and Norway next year?Kelly Cates and Rory Smith get our countdown to 2026 underway in Destination New Jersey. JT Batson, CEO & Secretary General of the US Soccer Federation, joins us to discuss their preparations for the tournament. Former New Zealand manager, Ricki Herbert, talks up their chances of making it to next summer’s World Cup 16 years after he guided them to South Africa. President of the Norwegian Football Association, Lise Klaveness, explains the pressure on them to ensure Erling Haaland and their talented generation can reach the finals. And we’re joined by former Wolves boss Stefano Cusin as he bids to take Comoros to their first World Cup. TIMECODES: 02:10 - JT Batson – CEO & Secretary General of US Soccer Federation 17:50 - Stefano Cusin – Comoros manager 26:19 – Ricki Herbert – Former New Zealand manager 39:36 – Lise Klaveness – President of the Norwegian Football Association. Commentaries on 5 Live/BBC Sounds: Wednesday: Manchester City v Chelsea - Women's Champions League (8pm) Thursday: Greece v Scotland - Men's Nations League play-off (7:45pm) Friday: England v Albania - Men's World Cup 2026 qualifying (7:45pm) Sunday: Manchester City v Chelsea - Women's Super League (2:30pm)

When did Dan Burn find out he was in the running for a place in the England squad? And how did Thomas Tuchel break the ice with Morgan Gibbs-White to call him up having initially left him out of the 26-man squad? Both Burn and Gibbs-White have been speaking to John Murray, who’s with Ian Dennis at St George’s Park for a first glimpse of Thomas Tuchel’s England. TIMECODES: 02:08 – Dan Burn Interview 07:10 – Is Tuchel looking for character in his call ups? 07:45 – Which Under 21s trained with the England squad? 08:29 – What’s different at St George’s Park under Tuchel? 12:45 – Morgan Gibbs White interview 18:47 – Just 24 training sessions to the 2026 World Cup?

In an exclusive interview with BBC Morning Live’s Helen Skelton, Michail opens up about just how badly injured he was, what he remembers of the day, how his children have been shielded from the worst of the news, and why he is so certain he will play at the highest level in the near future.

Rick Edwards heads to Brentford’s training ground to speak to head coach Thomas Frank and the club’s psychologist Michael Caulfield.They sit down in the manager’s office to discuss the evolution of psychology in football, dealing with the extreme highs and lows and unique pressures.Thomas Frank was appointed Bees boss back in October 2018 making him the second longest serving manager in the Premier League behind Pep Guardiola. As well as Brentford Michael Caulfield has worked with a number of other football clubs and managers including Gareth Southgate and a wide range of other sports from horseracing to darts.

Conor McNamara returns with Ian Dennis and Ali Bruce-Ball to tell the stories behind the 5 Live commentaries. On the agenda this week: being late for games, who brings the sweets and what it’s like splitting a commentary between commentators. What will be added/removed when it comes to the Great Glossary? And a new record is set in Clash of the Commentators!02:00 Conor recounts his first 5 Live commentary 03:25 How did Ali fare with his new glasses? 04:25 Who is Chris Sutton’s lookalike? 05:45 Man Utd turn another corner? 07:15 Sweets during commentary 10:35 Being late for commentaries 17:20 More lookalikes and soundalikes 20:45 Conor goes ‘back to the future’ 25:30 Clash of the Commentators 32:20 Commentators splitting a commentary 40:35 Great Glossary of Football CommentaryBBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 1500 Ipswich v Nottingham Forest, Sat 1730 Bournemouth v Brentford, Sun 1330 Arsenal v Chelsea, Sun 1330 Fulham v Tottenham on 5 Sports Extra, Sun 1630 Liverpool v Newcastle in the EFL Cup final, Sun 1900 Leicester v Man Utd.

Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe sits down exclusively with BBC Sports Editor Dan Roan. They discuss his ‘challenging’ first year at the club, manager Ruben Amorim, the club’s finances, ticket price rises, his cost-cutting programme, plans for a new stadium and more. Find more on this interview across the BBC Sport website and app and watch the conversation on BBC iPlayer.BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this week: Tue 11 Mar 2000 Liverpool v PSG in the Champions League, Wed 12 Mar 2000 Aston Villa v Club Brugge in the Champions League, Thu 13 Mar 2000 Man Utd v Real Sociedad in the Europa League.

Clive Myrie tells the football story of the century: the rise of Manchester City and the Premier League allegations of financial rule-breaking that threaten to bring the club crashing down. Football on Trial is a Tortoise Media production for BBC Sounds and BBC Radio 5 Live.

Dion Dublin visits Coventry City's training ground to speak with manager Frank Lampard.The Sky Blues find themselves 5th in the Championship, with eight wins in their last nine games, having been 17th in the table when Lampard took charge. He talks about benefiting from 18 months out of management, his previous jobs, his time at Coventry so far and ambitions for the final 11 games of the season.

Ian Dennis is back with John Murray & Ali Bruce-Ball to tell the stories behind the 5 Live commentaries. From John’s fancy food at PSG to seeing ‘episcopal purple’ in Notre-Dame. It’s Ian vs John in a Liverpool-themed Clash of the Commentators. And what will make it into the Great Glossary of Football Commentary?04:00 Ali gets glasses & football lookalikes 06:50 Using visual identifiers when players look similar 13:30 ‘Smash and grab’ for the Great Glossary? 18:40 Ian sees eight goals in Eindhoven 25:10 Caviar and runny cheese in Paris! 28:15 Back to the league in Clash of the Commentators 35:50 Great Glossary criteria are tightened up 40:20 Ali and John called into the Commentators’ Dock 52:30 ‘In and around’BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 8 Mar 1500 Liverpool v Southampton, Sat 8 Mar 1730 Brentford v Aston Villa, Sun 9 Mar 1400 Chelsea v Leicester, Sun 9 Mar 1630 Man Utd v Arsenal.

Peter Drury goes behind the microphone with John Murray and Alistair Bruce-Ball. He talks through his early days as a 5 Live football commentator, his relationship with words and how he thinks he may have put the commentator’s curse on Manchester United! Also Peter goes head-to-head with John Murray in a heavyweight Clash of the Commentators. And clarification on the Great Glossary criteria!03:45 Peter’s route into the industry 05:50 Peter’s first radio commentary 11:30 Peter’s broadcasting inspirations 17:45 Peter ‘showing off’ on Sports Report 20:05 ‘Words have been my best friend and my worst enemy’ 22:25 What is the best ‘Commentators’ View’ in sport? 27:00 Guilty examples of the ‘commentator’s curse’ 32:20 Heavyweight ‘Clash of the Commentators’ 43:45 The ‘Great Glossary’ rules are ironed outBBC Sounds / 5 Live FA Cup commentaries this weekend: Fri 28 Feb 2000 Aston Villa v Cardiff, Sat 1 Mar 1215 Crystal Palace v Millwall, Sat 1 Mar 1215 Preston v Burnley on BBC Sport website, Sat 1 Mar 1500 Bournemouth v Wolves, Sat 1 Mar 1745 Man City v Plymouth, Sun 2 Mar 1345 Newcastle v Brighton, Mon 3 Mar 1930 Nottingham Forest v Ipswich.

Wolves forward Matheus Cunha welcomes Kelly Somers to the club for a sit-down, where he talks about life in the Premier League, battling relegation and his aspirations on the international scene with Brazil.

John Murray and Alistair Bruce-Ball are joined by Chris Coles to talk commentary life. From keeping warm with Oliver Glasner to cringey early commentary moments, there are plenty of stories to be told. And Giulia Bould from BBC Radio Merseyside lifts the lid on the new Everton Stadium and reveals what ‘The Commentators’ View’ will be on Bramley-Moore Dock.03:15 Taking the Local Radio route 04:40 First games working at football 10:45 Oliver Glasner jumper-watch 12:45 Painting the pictures in commentary 15:40 Having your phone on the desk in commentary 17:15 Ian Dennis has the Marmoush bragging rights 21:35 Syncing up the radio with the TV pictures 23:30 THE match ball vs A match ball... 25:20 Housery in football 32:10 What is Everton’s new stadium like? 45:10 Clash of the CommentatorsBBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this weekend: Fri 1945 Portugal v England in the Women’s Nations League, Sat 1500 Arsenal v West Ham, Sat 1730 Aston Villa v Chelsea starting on 5 Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Newcastle v Nottingham Forest, Sun 1630 Man City v Liverpool.

West Ham boss Graham Potter speaks with Kelly Somers after a month in charge at the club. Potter took the West Ham job after nearly two years out of management, following his sacking at Chelsea in April 2023. In this chat he talks about being able to focus on his family for the first time in 12 years, how things ended at Chelsea and where he thinks he can take West Ham.

John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball tell the tales you don’t normally get to hear. Hear Ian’s story about his ‘clanger’ at Leeds United, Clash of the Commentators breaks new ground as Ali and Ian go head-to-head. And the panel also reflect on Champions League drama, Merseyside madness and tough times for Tottenham and Manchester United. Plus, voicenotes are now being accepted for the ‘Great Glossary of Football Commentary’!02:55 To sit or to stand? 04:40 ‘Intense’ week for John & Ian 08:20 Ian’s away goals rule ‘clanger’ 10:50 Iwata fires one into the glossary 11:45 TCV’s first voicenotes! 18:00 Clash of the Commentators 27:40 John surges clear in the Golden Mic contest 29:50 Champions League / Merseyside reflections 31:45 Tough times for Tottenham & Man Utd 38:55 Mousse, cheesecake & Crusty the Pie 43:10 Sending the goalkeeper the wrong way?BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 15 Feb 1500 Man City v Newcastle, Sat 15 Feb 1730 Crystal Palace v Everton, Sun 16 Feb 1400 Liverpool v Wolves, Sun 16 Feb 1630 Tottenham v Man Utd.

Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds. Vincent Kompany is one of European football’s most exciting young managers – so exciting, he got handed the keys to German giants Bayern Munich, the season after relegating Burnley from the Premier League to the Championship. It’s a strange trajectory, and at the time, his appointment in Munich raised more than a few eyebrows. How had Kompany gone from relegation to one of Europe’s biggest, most historic clubs? Was it because he was a student of Pep Guardiola, the ex-Bayern boss? Was he somehow failing upwards?This episode of Football Daily is hosted by documentary maker for Copa90, Eli Mengem. Eli heads off on a journey to understand how Kompany has had such a remarkable rise in football management by analysing his youth, playing career and early steps in management, speaking to his ex-teammate Kyle Walker, ex-manager Hugo Broos and others along the way. It maps Kompany’s rise, but also asks bigger questions too. We’ll speak to journalist at the Athletic Seb Stafford-Bloor about whether Kompany’s appointment is a harbinger for a new style of manager coming to the fore in Europe. And we’ll ask Troy Townsend, the ex-head of the UK’s anti-racism in football charity Kick It Out, about how Kompany’s experience as one of the very few black managers in Europe has affected his rise.As Kompany thrives in the Bundesliga in his first season, this episode of Football Daily arrives at the perfect time to dispel some of the myths around him, while examining his personality off the pitch, to create a portrait of what is one of the most fascinating personalities and footballing stories in the modern game.

John Murray and Ian Dennis are joined by Jacqui Oatley to lift the lid on life behind the microphone. Jacqui reveals how she got into football media and the pressure that came with being the first female commentator. Jacqui takes on John in a one-off Clash of the Commentators exhibition match. Will any of Jacqui’s Americanisms make the Great Glossary of Football Commentary? And rugby union correspondent Chris Jones joins the pod to talk about commentating at the Six Nations.04:45 How Jacqui got into football media? 11:40 Facing pressure as a female commentator 19:10 Clash of the Commentators 25:00 Americanisms for the Great Glossary? 37:20 Rugby’s Chris Jones joins the podBBC Sounds / 5 Live FA Cup commentaries this weekend: Fri 7 Feb 2000 Man Utd v Leicester, Sat 8 Feb 1215 Leyton Orient v Man City, Sat 8 Feb 1215 Leeds v Millwall on 5 Sports Extra, Sat 8 Feb 1500 Wigan v Fulham, Sat 8 Feb 1500 Everton v Bournemouth on the BBC Sport website, Sat 8 Feb 1745 Birmingham v Newcastle starting on 5 Sports Extra, Sat 8 Feb 2000 Brighton & Hove v Chelsea, Sun 9 Feb 1230 Blackburn v Wolves, Sun 9 Feb 1735 Aston Villa v Tottenham Mon 10 Feb 1945 Doncaster v Crystal Palace.

John Bennett is joined by Guillem Balague, Julien Laurens and James Horncastle.How has Cristiano Ronaldo elongated his career? The Portuguese striker is still scoring in Saudi Arabia so a former Manchester United performance coach tells us how he’s done it.Which team in Europe was the busiest in the January transfer window? Which winter window buys could prove a win for the buying clubs? They discuss Mathys Tel and Rennes' deadline-day dash. Also, is Ousmane Dembele finally fulfilling his potential?BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this week: Wed 5 Feb 2000 Newcastle v Arsenal in the Carabao Cup, Thu 6 Feb 2000 Liverpool v Tottenham in the Carabao Cup, Fri 7 Feb 2000 Man Utd v Leicester in the FA Cup.

Alan Shearer makes the short trip to Newcastle United's training ground to speak to in-form striker Alexander Isak. The Swedish international explains why he's been scoring so many goals this season. He discusses his journey in football and how he grew up watching Spanish football. He sheds light on his future plans in football, short term and long term and where he sees Newcastle finishing this season.

Gary Lineker visits Liverpool's training ground Melwood to speak with manager Arne Slot. The Liverpool manager talks about his success at the club so far since taking charge from Jurgen Klopp in the summer. He praises the former Liverpool boss for how he left the club. Slot also discusses the difficulty of being away from his family in the Netherlands and the similarities between his former club Feyenoord and Liverpool.

John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball lift the lid on life as 5 Live commentators. They reflect on the table-watching drama of the final round of Champions League and Europa League games. There’s off-field controversy. Who will go top of the table in Clash of the Commentators? And Ali’s Shrewsbury story finally gets told.00:45 John’s trip to the dentist 04:00 Striking pre-match displays 07:30 All eyes on the table, not the match? 15:00 Man City/Celtic vs Bayern Munich/Real Madrid 18:30 Golden mic latest 21:00 Golf and games controversy 27:10 Who will go top in Clash of the Commentators? 34:55 The Shrewsbury story finally gets told 42:30 Most exciting January signings 47:15 The Great Glossary of Football CommentaryBBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 1 Feb 1500 Bournemouth v Liverpool, Sat 1 Feb 1730 Wolves v Aston Villa on 5 Sports Extra, Sun 2 Feb 1400 Man Utd v Crystal Palace, Sun 2 Feb 1400 Brentford v Tottenham on 5 Sports Extra, Sun 2 Feb 1630 Arsenal v Man City.

Dion Dublin visits Old Trafford to chat with Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt.The 25-year-old talks about United’s season so far since Ruben Amorim took charge at the club, and where there is room for improvement.He opens up on the success of his career so far, having started out at Ajax, where he reached the Champions League semi-final in 2018 and then his big money moves to Juventus and Bayern Munch.

5 Live commentators John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball tell the stories you don’t normally get to hear. From the delights on offer at the Parc des Princes to Ian getting called out by Gareth Southgate for his dinner party getup. Gigi Salmon and Russell Fuller reveal what it’s like commentating at the Australian Open tennis. And can Ali go level at the top with John in Clash of the Commentators?00:30 Ali’s Monaco memories 09:10 Champions League snakes & ladders 12:30 John’s Parisian treats 16:10 Best foreign commentary phrases 23:40 Ian gets called out by Gareth Southgate 26:15 The power of silence & staying enthused 31:55 John vs Ian in Clash of the Commentators 40:00 Commentating at the Australian Open tennis 45:00 The local verdict on Savio vs Savinho 48:50 What will be added to the Great Glossary?BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 25 Jan 1500 Wolves v Arsenal, Sat 25 Jan 1730 Man City v Chelsea, Sun 26 Jan 1400 Tottenham v Leicester, Sun 26 Jan 1400 Crystal Palace v Brentford on 5 Sports Extra, Sun 26 Jan 1630 Aston Villa v West Ham.

Real Madrid are the most successful team in the history of the Champions League/European Cup with 15 titles. But how have they achieved this? Steve Crossman and Guillem Balague explore Real's relationship with the competition, looking at their early dominance in the late 1950s, through to their six triumphs since 2014.We hear from former players Clarence Seedorf and Sami Khedira on what makes Real Madrid so special. And former coach Paul Clement joins the pod to give us insight into current head coach Carlo Ancelotti and their "La Decima" win in 2014 against Atletico Madrid.To watch the TV documentary, it is available on BBC iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m00276py/how-to-win-the-champions-league4:30 Real Madrid's early dominance 11:40 Clarence Seedorf on the Real Madrid DNA 22:10 Paul Clement on La Decima and Carlo Ancelotti 38:30 Sami Khedira on Real's recruitment 40:30 Can they continue their dominance?

Gary Lineker invites Brentford manager Thomas Frank round his house for a chat and spot of lunch The Danish manager talks about the journey he's taken the club on, becoming only the Brentford head coach or manager to achieve promotion to the top-flight of English football.

Darren Fletcher is joined by Football Correspondent John Murray, Manchester United journalist Andy Mitten, and former Scotland international Joe Jordan to remember the life and career of Manchester United & Scotland legend Denis Law – the only Scottish player to also have won the Ballon d'Or.

5 Live commentators John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball answer listener questions. From John’s Cyprus underpants story to Ali’s old pet Betsy the beagle causing mischief. Plus the panel react to Erling Haaland signing a new 10-year deal with Manchester City. And will Ali’s losing streak continue in Clash of the Commentators?02:10 Did John avoid the pigeons at Tamworth? 05:50 Commentary boxes behind glass. 13:10 TCV goes international! 17:25 John’s Cyprus underpants story. 24:30 Will Ali lose again in Clash of the Commentators? 32:45 Ali’s mischievous Betsy the beagle. 34:50 Haaland signs 10-year deal. 38:10 Commentating in stadia not designed for football. 40:20 Great Glossary of Football Commentary.BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 18 Jan 1500 Brentford v Liverpool on 5 Live, Sat 18 Jan 1730 Arsenal v Aston Villa on 5 Live, Sun 19 Jan 1400 Man Utd v Brighton & Hove Albion on 5 Live, Sun 19 Jan 1630 Ipswich Town v Man City on 5 Live, Sun 19 Jan 1830 Man City v Man Utd (WSL) on 5 Sports Extra.

After Erling Haaland signs a new long-term deal with Manchester City club - listen back to when the Premier League’s all-time record goalscorer Alan Shearer met with the striker on the eve of his debut season back in 2022. Haaland talks about the relationship with his father, and wanting to be a better player than him from a really young age. He says he has the ability to improve ‘everything’ in his game, and highlights the importance of meditation to his game.The original version of this podcast was released on 6 August 2022.

John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball present an FA Cup Special. They discuss the magic of the FA Cup, from giant killings to pigeon-infested commentary positions.Has the schedule taken away some its allure? Who has the best non-league knowledge in Clash of the Commentators? And where does everyone most look forward to going?01:00 Magic of the FA Cup 02:55 The schedule 05:55 How Sean Dyche’s sacking affected Ali’s prep 09:30 VAR from a commentator’s perspective 14:40 Tunnel interviews 21:25 FA Cup memories 25:20 Biggest cupsets 29:40 Tamworth vs Spurs 31:50 FA Cup replays: yes or no? 34:15 Question from Euro Leagues 36:40 Non-league themed Clash of the Commentators 42:15 Great Glossary of Football5 LIVE COMMENTARIES THIS WEEKEND Friday 10th January FA CUP: Aston Villa v West Ham United 2000 KOSaturday 11th January FA CUP: Bristol City v Wolverhampton Wanderers 1200 KO FA CUP: Liverpool v Accrington Stanley 1215 KO FA CUP: Brentford v Plymouth Argyle 1500 KO FA CUP: Leeds United v Harrogate Town 1745 KO FA CUP: Manchester City v Salford City 1745 KOSunday 12th January FA CUP: Tamworth v Spurs 1230 KO FA CUP: Newcastle United v Bromley 1500 KO FA CUP: Crystal Palace v Stockport County 1500 KO

From Paris, to Bolton – Premier League legend Jay-Jay Okocha sits down with Dion Dublin in this Football Daily special. The former Nigeria international opens up about that move from Paris Saint-Germain to the Premier League with Bolton Wanderers. He chats to Dion about adapting to life in England, his relationship with Sam Allardyce and his determination to prove himself in the Premier League.

5 Live commentators John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball answer listener questions. From how they got into football to how they relax while on the road, and which are the coldest/warmest grounds in the country? And can Ian finally get a win under his belt in Clash of the Commentators?02:15 Ali talks about presenting on the radio 06:10 John’s Christmas travel troubles 12:40 Why did they get into football? 19:20 How do they relax while traveling? 24:30 Do they listen back to their commentaries? 30:20 How do they look after their voices? 33:10 Can Ian win Clash of the Commentators? 43:05 Is Liverpool-Man Utd a ‘local derby’? 44:40 Which are the coldest/warmest grounds? 47:40 The Great Glossary of Football CommentaryBBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 4 Jan 3pm Crystal Palace v Chelsea, Sat 4 Jan 5:30pm Brighton v Arsenal, Sun 5 Jan 2pm Fulham v Ipswich, Sun 5 Jan 4:30pm Liverpool v Man Utd.

John Bennett is joined by Guillem Balague, Julien Laurens and Rafa Honigstein for the first Euro Leagues of 2025. They discuss the match they are most looking forward to and highlight players you should keep an eye on in 2025. From Omar Marmoush at Eintracht Frankfurt to the young Argentine flourishing at Como, they pick out players who could be set for a big move, those on the cusp of great things and a couple of youngsters making big strides. They also pick out something that they are looking forward to in football this year – and end the show with some predictions.TIMECODES 0 mins: Introduction and New Year’s Resolutions 1 min: Fixtures to look forward to in 2025. 7 mins: Eintracht Frankfurt’s Omar Marmoush. 12 mins: Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi. 15 mins: Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller. 20 mins: Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche. 25 mins: Como’s Nico Paz. 29 mins: Heidenheim’s Paul Wanner (on loan from Bayern Munich). 33 mins: Real Madrid’s Joan Martinez. 35 mins: The team discuss something that they are looking forward to seeing in football in 2025.

Ali Bruce-Ball, John Murray and Ian Dennis present a selection box of stories from life as 5 Live commentators. From getting a wasp in the mouth mid-commentary, to getting in trouble with Kenny Dalglish and Tony Pulis, they tell the tales you don't normally get to hear.

Neil Warnock joins Aaron Paul and Jobi McAnuff for a festive Christmas treat and to look back on some of his favourite memories in football.From bowling and chiropody, to Chris Morgan and Adel Taarabt, Neil Warnock lifts the lid on some of his funniest and memorable stories.He talks about what Christmas is like in the Warnock household and looks back at almost 60 years in football.Plus, find out if Yorkshire puddings are on Neil Warnock’s Christmas dinner!

Jonathan Sutherland travels to Naples to speak to two Scots who are starring in Serie A.Napoli's Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour chat to Jonathan about adapting to life in Italy, their relationship with Antonio Conte and following in the footsteps of Diego Maradona.McTominay also opens up on his decision to leave Manchester United, while Gilmour discusses swapping Brighton for Naples.BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 21 Dec, 1500: West Ham v Brighton on 5 Live Sat 21 Dec, 1730: Crystal Palace v Arsenal on 5 Live Sun 22 Dec, 1400: Everton v Chelsea on 5 Live Sun 22 Dec, 1400: Man Utd v Bournemouth on 5 Sports Extra Sun 22 Dec, 1400: Fulham v Southampton on BBC Sport website Sun 22 Dec, 1400: Leicester v Wolves on BBC Sport website Sun 22 Dec, 1630: Tottenham v Liverpool on 5 Live

John Murray returns with Ian Dennis and Ali Bruce-Ball to lift the lid on life as a commentator. From being pulled over by police in Moscow to talking tailoring with Thomas Tuchel, they reveal the stories they don’t normally get to hear. Plus, Steve Bunce drops in from Riyadh ahead of #UsykFury2 to talk boxing commentary. And Clash of the Commentators takes on an Asian feel.01:20 Interviewing Thomas Tuchel 02:55 27-hour journey back from Moscow 08:10 Don’t speak to Pep on the golf course 11:10 How are commentary games chosen? 13:55 Commentating with Clinton Morrison 18:10 Steve Bunce talks boxing commentary 28:25 Best goal scored by a European player this year? 33:30 Clash of the Commentators goes Asian 38:05 Looking ahead to the weekend’s fixtures 42:00 The Great Glossary of Football CommentaryBBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 21 Dec, 1500: West Ham v Brighton on 5 Live Sat 21 Dec, 1730: Crystal Palace v Arsenal on 5 Live Sun 22 Dec, 1400: Everton v Chelsea on 5 Live Sun 22 Dec, 1400: Man Utd v Bournemouth on 5 Sports Extra Sun 22 Dec, 1400: Fulham v Southampton on BBC Sport website Sun 22 Dec, 1400: Leicester v Wolves on BBC Sport website Sun 22 Dec, 1630: Tottenham v Liverpool on 5 Live

Conor McNamara joins Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball to reveal the stories behind the 5 Live commentaries. From Conor taking a printer to games, to using the facilities on the Anfield roof! They tell the tales you don’t normally get to hear. And ‘Clash of the Commentators’ is back!02:05 Upsetting football fans 06:00 Conor’s portable printer 09:20 Using Championship Manager to help prep 11:20 Getting the overnight sleeper train 15:00 What do commentators do at half-time? 18:05 The Anfield commode 22:30 Best derby to commentate on? 28:20 Commentating at late notice/without notes! 31:40 Most difficult pronunciations 35:45 Clash of the Commentators 41:50 Great Dictionary of Football CommentaryBBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League / Women’s Super League commentaries this weekend: Sat 14 Dec, 15:00 – Liverpool v Fulham – 5 Live Sat 14 Dec, 17:30 – Nottingham Forest v Aston Villa – 5 Live Sun 15 Dec, 14:00 – Brighton v Crystal Palace – 5 Live Sun 15 Dec, 14:30 – Liverpool Women v Arsenal Women – 5 Sports Extra Sun 15 Dec, 16:30 – Man City v Man Utd – 5 Live

It's been confirmed the FIFA World Cup will be returning to the Middle East in 10 years' time after FIFA awarded Saudi Arabia the hosting rights to the 2034 tournament. Securing football’s most high-profile tournament is just the latest example of the Kingdom’s growing influence on global sport, which its critics say is in an effort to 'sportswash' the regime's reputation.Katie Smith is joined by BBC sports editor Dan Roan and Tariq Panja, global sports correspondent for The New York Times, to provide the background to Saudi Arabia’s unopposed bid.We hear from the president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, Yasser Al Misehal, and from Amanda Staveley, who was part of the Saudi-backed takeover of Newcastle United in 2021, on why the tournament will be a great success, while BBC sports news correspondent Laura Scott speaks to Norwegian Football Federation president Lise Klaveness about Norway's decision to abstain from the voting process for the 2030 and 2034 tournaments.Stephen Cockburn, Amnesty International’s head of housing, workers rights, and sport, and Wycombe Wanderers midfielder David Wheeler, the PFA’s sustainability champion, also join the podcast to discuss their concerns over human and the environment.And we ask what all this means for Saudi Arabia’s huge investments in domestic football, particularly at Newcastle United.

In this special episode of the Football Daily Nedum Onuoha travels to Italy to have a typical Milanese dinner with AC Milan striker Tammy Abraham to discuss his many career highlights, relationship with Jose Mourinho and how life abroad has changed him as a player and person. Tammy chats to Nedum about the importance of embracing Milan and how he has found settling in to a new environment, including the fashion!

John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball reveal the stories behind the 5 Live commentaries. From commentating in the pouring rain with colleagues in their underwear, to a big medical drama, they tell the tales you don’t normally get to hear. And the ‘Wheel of Spiel’ makes a return!01:35 John gets a surprise 03:30 Ian has an apology to make 04:20 Commentating in the rain 09:20 Ian nearly ends his career 14:30 ‘Wheel of Spiel’ goes deep 19:00 Favourite commentary positions 22:55 Tottenham-Chelsea preview 27:10 John’s big medical drama 29:45 Ali’s new toys! 31:20 The Great Dictionary of Football CommentaryBBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 7 Dec, 15:00 – Crystal Palace v Man City - 5 Live Sat 7 Dec, 17:30 – Man Utd v Nottingham Forest - 5 Live Sun 8 Dec, 14:00 – Fulham v Arsenal - 5 Live Sun 8 Dec, 14:00 – Leicester v Brighton – 5 Sports Extra Sun 8 Dec, 14:00 – Ipswich v Bournemouth – BBC Sport website Sun 8 Dec, 16:30 – Tottenham v Chelsea - 5 Live

In a special interview, new Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim speaks to Mark Chapman about his appointment.Amorim explains why he already feels a connection with the club’s fans, and why his new role won’t change him as a person. He also talks about his time in Portugal, including how being released as a player by Benfica impacted him. TIMECODES 02:30 Making a connection with Man Utd fans 04:00 Being an emotional character 11:00 On seeing a psychologist as he came to the end of his playing career and prepared to become a coach 14:00 Getting inspiration from Jorge Jesus and Leonardo Jardim 18:00 The driving force behind each managerial move he’s made 21:00 On how moving to the club will change his life

Alistair Bruce-Ball, John Murray and Ian Dennis tell the stories behind the 5 Live commentaries, from getting lost in Portugal to navigating the new Champions League table. What’s it like preparing for a big game like Liverpool vs Man City? And who will take round two in Clash of the Commentators? Plus catch the latest entries into The Great Dictionary of Football Commentary.01:00 John’s tip troubles 03:00 Ian’s Portugal problems 08:05 Liverpool-Real Madrid reflections 14:05 Getting used to the UCL table 17:30 ‘New series’ of Liverpool-Man City 23:30 Training the commentators 28:30 Clash of the Commentators 33:55 Working at Selhurst Park 38:15 The Great Dictionary of Football CommentaryBBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this weekend: 15:00 Sat 30 Nov: Crystal Palace v Newcastle – Premier League 17:30 Sat 30 Nov: West Ham v Arsenal – Premier League 13:30 Sun 1 Dec: Man Utd v Everton – Premier League 13:30 Sun 1 Dec: Chelsea v Aston Villa – Premier League – 5 Sports Extra 13:30 Sun 1 Dec: Tottenham v Fulham – Premier League – BBC Sport website 16:00 Sun 1 Dec: Liverpool v Man City – Premier League

John Murray and Ian Dennis join Alistair Bruce-Ball to lift the lid on life as 5 Live commentators. From Ian’s floppy disk of research to pre-interview smalltalk with Steven Gerrard, they reveal stories you don’t normally get to hear. And as it’s an Ali Bruce-Ball podcast, of course there’s some fun and games as well.02:00 No rest for the commentator! 06:05 Ian’s floppy disk 09:05 Encounters with new Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim 13:50 ‘Kevin Dalglish’ 15:20 Pre-interview smalltalk 18:10 The ‘Wheel of Spiel’ 24:30 Difficulties of commentating on Man City 29:30 Ian Holloway’s spooky interview 31:30 ‘Clash of the commentators’ quiz 36:10 What’s it like commentating at 3pm on Saturday? 39:30 The Great Dictionary of Football CommentaryBBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this weekend: Arsenal v Nottingham Forest – Premier League – 15:00 – Saturday 23 November Man City v Tottenham – Premier League – 17:30 – Saturday 23 November Southampton v Liverpool – Premier League – 14:00 – Sunday 24 November Ipswich v Man Utd – Premier League – 16:30 – Sunday 24 November

Morgan Rogers joins Liam MacDevitt to talk about his career so far and aspirations for the future. He recalls the decision to join Aston Villa from Middlesbrough and opens up about life & playing in the Midlands.They discuss that feeling when he first heard the Champions League anthem, and what it’s like to play under Unai Emery.Plus, with so many of his international teammates from youth level gaining senior call-ups for England, he shares his aspirations of a call-up from new manager Thomas Tuchel.

Spurs winger Brennan Johnson talks form, influences, Son Heung-min & Ange Postecoglou. He discusses how comfortable he feels now he is in his second season at Tottenham Hotspur and his drive to win the club their first deomstic trophy since 2008.