Football Ramble

Huddersfield and Southampton have ruined our hopes for a dramatic final day relegation scrap but there’s plenty of fun to be had as the Saints finally get the credit they deserve and Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola dish out awards with mixed results, to the chagrin of a certain John Toshack. Elsewhere, Big Weng is linked with a surprising move, Stevie Gers gets ready to halt Celtic’s charge for McDecima and there’s a welcome return for anti-tank missiles. This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Rafa on Jonj:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/11365327/jonjo-shelvey-provides-england-with-a-good-option-says-rafa-benitezJohn Toshack blames praise for Swansea’s decline:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11731/11365084/john-toshack-blames-praise-from-jose-mourinho-and-other-managers-for-swansea-plightPep identifies his candidates for manager of the year:http://www.90min.in/posts/6045919-pep-guardiola-identifies-sean-dyche-and-rafa-benitez-as-manager-of-the-year-contenders Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We can confirm that BRIGHTON ARE SAFE! David “The Ferryman” Moyes has also turned West Ham’s season around and rowed it back to shore, and our beloved Roy Hodgson has kept Palace up but elsewhere the relegation scrapes continue. We also learn about Pete’s adventures in Chinatown, have an innovative new idea for how to distribute cards, and get a timely reminder that a certain Sepp Blatter is still very much at large. Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Neil Warnock does it again:https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/cardiff-city-vs-reading-promoted-premier-league-result-highlights-goals-fulham-birmingham-a8338836.htmlArsene Wenger’s goodbye tour continues:https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsene-wenger-arsenal-vs-burnley-interview-next-manager-goals-a8339291.htmlCrystal Palace stay up with aplomb:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11096/11362783/crystal-palace-dominate-sky-sports-power-rankings-after-penultimate-weekend Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As expected, a certain young man won big at Man United’s end of season awards (forever more known as The Scotties), Liverpool shun game management in favour of an absolute thrill ride and we try to keep some narrative going by tipping absolutely everyone for relegation. Elsewhere there’s very serious analysis about expected take-ons, Mardy Andy Carroll gets the hump and the only thing that they have got is the big boy up front Sigthorsson. Oh. Oh my word. This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Arturo Vidal is not happy:https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/arturo-vidal-instagram-bayern-munich-real-madrid-champions-league-a8332766.htmlAnd the winner is… Scott McTominay…https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43974228The Louis Van Gaal archive is open again:https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/man-utd-rafael-van-gaal-14549023 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pete returns from his American adventure, unable to work the production buttons, and to find that despite recent events Arsenal’s scriptwriters are as lazy as ever, Mark Hughes is earning his handshakes and it could well be the End of Days for some British managers. Luckily Mitro has come good for him and if that’s not enough there’s a weird Portsmouth diversion, Marcus goes bananas in pyjamas and we manage to cause some marital strifeSearch ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Man United’s classy gesture to Arsene Wenger:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/apr/29/arsene-wenger-classy-gesture-manchester-unitedJurgen Klopp is unhappy about how many penalties Liverpool get:https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/liverpool-latest-news-jurgen-klopp-penalty-record-anfield-stoke-highlights-champions-league-a8328116.htmlSam Allardyce can’t honestly produce more than he’s doing:https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sam-allardyce-addresses-everton-fans-14589695 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Liverpool dazzled us all in the Champions League but what will happen when their unstoppable force meets the immovable object of Paul Lambert? We can but wait and see. While we wait we chat more about Big Weng’s plans for the future, are surprised by a musical theatre revelation and hear from our beloved-yet-worst listener. There’s some stuff about Kevin Keegan though so it’s all good. This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Arsene Wenger may manage again:https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/arsenal-vs-atletico-madrid-arsene-wenger-future-next-club-manager-europa-league-a8322471.htmlSad times for the Ox:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/apr/25/alex-oxlade-chamberlain-out-season-world-cup-england-injuryZAHA SPEAKS OUT:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11706/11345127/wilfried-zaha-tells-sky-sports-about-the-agenda-against-him-and-how-he-has-matured-at-crystal-palace Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The day we thought would never arrive is finally here, as Arsene Wenger announces that he’s leaving Arsenal and we pay our respects through tears, in one case at least. Merci, Big Weng.Over at Wembley Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte schedule a meeting in the Narrative Cup final, there’s fun throughout The Championship, unless you support Sunderland, a rival to England’s big plane emerges and we gleefully relive another iconic England moment. Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Arsene Wenger’s press conference:https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2018/apr/23/arsene-wenger-tackles-elephant-in-room-reasons-leavingMo Salah: Player of the Year:https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/mohamed-salah-liverpool-pfa-player-of-the-year-award-feature-manchester-city-kevin-de-bruyne-a8317266.htmlJose Mourinho is concerned about being murdered:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11667/11343488/jose-mourinho-says-if-man-utd-dont-win-fa-cup-people-will-be-ready-to-kill-him Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We focus our dustbin hearts on perceptions of Paul Pogba, Arsenal’s potential summer of chaos and this weekend’s forthcoming Mike Dean Festival, bizarrely billed as Stoke vs Burnley. As well as all that we cast our minds back to Louis Van Gaal’s FA Cup clipboard, there’s mistaken identity in Ireland and Marcus ruins the World Cup. This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Premier League Team of the Year:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/apr/18/manchester-city-dominate-pfa-premier-league-team-of-the-yearMark Hughes wants Southampton to enjoy their relegation fight:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11700/11336611/mark-hughes-says-southampton-must-embrace-premier-league-relegation-battleZlatan appears on Jimmy Kimmel:https://www.si.com/soccer/2018/04/18/zlatan-ibrahimovic-jimmy-kimmel-live-video Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What a sparkling end to a vintage title race! We look back over West Brom winning the title at Old Trafford (for Man City), Southampton’s latest indignity and Thierry Henry’s sparkling beard oil. Elsewhere there’s Mike Dean at the World Cup, a glittering future for Brendy Rodgers and, would you believe it, talk of Jonjo Shelvey getting an England call up. It just won’t go away. Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Big Vinny in the pub:http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43778302Jose’s taking it all well:https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/manchester-united-news-west-brom-jose-mourinho-city-win-title-a8306246.htmlArsene Wenger is worried by Arsenal’s character:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/apr/15/arsene-wenger-arsenal-rafael-benitez-newcastle-united Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We delight in a seismic week of football where Gigi Buffon lets his emotions get the better of him, agent of chaos Sergio Ramos excels himself and Pep Guardiola resorts to using doubles in a bid to save Man City’s season.Alongside this there’s a surprising change of direction from Rafa Benitez, an absolutely textbook impression of Arsene Wenger and liberal use of the word ‘chubbies’.This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Gianluigi Buffon hasn’t taken things well:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/apr/11/real-madrid-juventus-champions-league-penalty-gianluigi-buffon-rubbish-bin-heart-referee-oliverAnother goal for Harry Kane:http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43731208Sunderland try to keep Newcastle fans out of The Stadium of Light:https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-fans-trying-enjoy-14513067 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re back from Naples and though pieces of us will remain there forever we’ve raced into the studio to bring you our wares. There are mentions for Big Sam’s pyjamas, Hatem Ben Arfa’s year in the cupboard and, of course, dogs.As if that isn’t enough there’s positivity for Newcastle, Southampton (sort of, by which we mean ‘negativity’) and once again we simply cannot ignore good old Neil Warnock.Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Neil and Nuno keep on rowing:https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/nuno-wolves-cardiff-neil-warnock-14505063.ampA big game to come for Man City:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/apr/09/pep-guardiola-manchester-city-liverpool-champions-league?CMP=Share_iOSApp_OtherConfusion over Antonio Conte’s future:https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/943503/Chelsea-news-Antonio-Conte-sacked/amp Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Liverpool get us all giddy after their scintillating display against a rattled Man City, Mick McCarthy weighs up whether he can be bothered with the West Brom job and there’s something about Aleksandar Mitrovic stealing time. As well as all this Marcus gets understandably irked by a pitch for Ramble Airlines, Charlie Adam throws a strop and Hatem Ben Arfa has a pizza-based dilemma.This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Jonathan Wilson on Pep Guardiola’s tactics against Liverpool:https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2018/apr/05/pep-guardiola-gamble-raheem-sterling-manchester-city-liverpoolMick McCarthy might fancy the West Brom job:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11698/11316442/mick-mccarthy-is-open-to-west-brom-approach-for-managerial-vacancyHate Ben Arfa and his pizza:https://www.si.com/soccer/2018/04/03/psg-outcast-hatem-ben-arfa-plans-use-pizza-irritate-club-chiefs-ahead-summer-departure Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy Easter you lot! We drag ourselves to the studio even on a Bank Holiday to bring you news of Alan Pardew’s departure from West Brom, David Wagner’s relaxed attitude towards the relegation battle and Man City preparing their championship champagne. Elsewhere there’s some ‘instinctual’ reactions from Marko Arnautovic, some unsurprising contractual stipulations from Ronaldinho and, of course, the gift that keeps on Kevin. Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Pochettino is changing the mentality at Spurs:https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/tottenham-news-mauricio-pochettino-chelsea-things-we-learned-eriksen-alli-goals-miguel-delaney-a8284751.htmlMarko Arnautovic has no sympathy for Mark Hughes:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11685/11313663/west-hams-marko-arnautovic-has-no-sympathy-for-former-boss-mark-hughesZlatan makes an instant impact:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/apr/02/los-angeles-derby-lafc-la-galaxy-mls-zlatan-ibrahimovic-soccer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

England’s 1-1 draw was so promising that known misog Pete Donaldson is getting excited, even if he does also treble down on a pre-existing gripe. To temper this excitement Aleksandar Mitrovic remains aflame, Carlos Tevez continues his exemplary professionalism and Arsene Wenger pipes up about some new isms. On top of this we welcome the Premier League back into the fold, we hear from some trustworthy Barrys and there’s a treat from the Neil Warnock archives. This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:The England plane is filling up:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/mar/27/england-world-cup-squad-russia-friendliesElite professional Carlos Tevez gets injured in a prison football match:https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/bocas-carlos-tevez-gets-injured-prison-match-while-visiting-his-brother?utm_campaign=inothernews&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_term=editorial_organic&utm_content=stillimageMark Noble’s open letter to West Ham fans:https://inews.co.uk/sport/football/mark-noble-letter-west-ham-fans/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

England took on the Netherlands and gave us reasons to make noises, get excited about the World Cup and talk about Bas Dost, three things that are frankly long overdue. Discover our joy as we use phrases like “distribution”, “versatile” and “got a big Lampard.”Meanwhile, in the rest of the sport, Scotland got back underway with Big Eckos of the past and dispatches from the Hamburger queue, Cristiano Ronaldo reminded everybody who’s boss and we put out a call to Barrys everywhere.Love or slaps,The Football RambleSearch ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected]***Please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***Further reading:Jack Butland on competition for places with England:https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/international/england-vs-italy-team-news-jack-butland-goalkeeper-choice-southgate-pickford-a8273341.htmlScotland dish our debuts against Costa Rica:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/mar/23/scotland-costa-rica-international-friendly-match-reportRonaldo vs Salah:http://www.espn.co.uk/football/club/portugal/482/blog/post/3430694/cristiano-ronaldo-scores-brace-for-portugal-against-mohamed-salah-and-egypt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

100 years ago this weekend, Walter Tull was killed in action in the First World War. While not a name that immediately springs to mind when we think of the people that influenced our game the most over the years, Tull was a pioneer.We first profiled him back in November 2009, and with increasing calls for him to be recognised posthumously for his services both to football and the military, we thought it would be nice to re-release his entry into our hall of fame from nine or so years ago.His story is incredible and his contribution to football and society in general can never be underestimated. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Richard E Grant, Starbucks, “adult“ Froobs… it’s international week so things get weird quickly!We discuss England’s goalkeeping situation and nutrition plans, there's a birthday wished for a Ramble (Speller) favourite and musings on Spain’s twin defensive totem poles. On top of all that we learn of Ronaldinho’s political misunderstandings, Gareth Bale breaks records and we hear your suggestions for how to improve international football. Samba do good crazy!This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:The Panama Grandma explained:https://www.si.com/soccer/2017/10/17/pitch-invading-granny-discusses-why-she-took-panamas-world-cup-qualification-her-own-handsGermany’s strength in depth:https://www.bundesliga.com/en/news/Bundesliga/how-germany-could-look-at-the-2018-world-cup-in-russia-447224.jspRonaldo on his hair at the 2002 World Cup:http://www.goal.com/en/news/brazil-legend-ronaldo-reveals-reason-behind-famous-2002/6j0s0ux1s8ny167exv54tzrss Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sadly the FA Cup delivered no cupsets but we still enjoyed it, certainly more than Luke Shaw will have after another dressing down from Jose Mourinho, Mo Salah excites us into thinking he may be the greatest human in history and Newcastle get in a glorious bonus dig at Sunderland. On top of this the England squad musters enthusiasm, in a way, Neil Warnock spies a conspiracy, and Romario absolutely doesn’t.Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:Jose Mourinho’s press conference in full:https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2018/03/16/full-transcript-jose-mourinhos-extraordinary-12-minute-manchester/Jurgen Klopp thinks Mo Salah can get even better:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/mar/18/mohamed-salah-jurgen-klopp-liverpool-watfordNeil Warnock on various disgraces:http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43450852Video:Newcastle fan wins the crossbar challenge at Sunderland:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/11295344/newcastle-fan-wins-sunderland-crossbar-challenge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Man United are out of Europe but according to Jose Mourinho it’s happened before and it’ll happen again so it’s fine, Lionel Messi gives Chelsea the run around in Spain and down the road Leicester watch on with interest ahead of their FA Cup quarter final. Alongside this we learn about the logistical requirements of Marcus’ plan for England’s massive World Cup squad, he also predicts a round of cupsets that will make his aunt even giddier and we discover more about the frightening power of the Jaffa Cake lobby.This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:Roy Keane on Man United:http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/manchester-united-latest-news-champions-league-roy-keane-itv-paul-pogba-a8256766.htmlMark Hughes to the rescue at Southampton:https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2018/mar/15/mark-hughes-southampton-gamble-paul-wilsonSpurs’ unfortunate survey:http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43397583 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another chaotic week at West Ham as they took on both Burnley and themselves, Man United did some very interesting things to Jurgen Klopp’s face and Marcus continues to fill the England plane to the point where aviation laws are surely being recklessly disregarded. On top of that there’s a long time mystery solved for Steve Cotterill, some dear listeners receive a warm welcome to Villa Park and Aleksandar Mitrovic continues his war on Pete’s heart.Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:West Ham’s stewarding issues:https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2018/03/11/west-ham-owners-want-take-london-stadium-security-saturday-stand/Jose Mourinho isn’t even bothered about beating Liverpool and if he is then how come he isn’t:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/mar/11/jose-mourinho-manchester-united-cup-games-more-important-liverpool-winNewcastle find their rhythm:http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/newcastle-southampton-rafa-benitez-storm-clouds-clearing-set-on-right-path-a8250646.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Juventus and their sentient statue Giorgio Chiellini bring Spurs’ Champions League dream to an end, Aleksandar Mitrovic rubs further salt into Geordie wounds and there are rumbles of discontent at West Ham. Again.Furthermore there’s a welcome return for Jaffa Cakes, we hear of your nemesi and there’s a further chance to restore some family honour…This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:West Ham’s drama explained:http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/west-ham-united-board-protest-march-meetings-hooligans-icf-action-group-a8244951.htmlJose Mourinho and Jurgen Klopp’s tactical differences:https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2018/mar/08/jose-mourinho-jurgen-klopp-football-aesthetics-manchester-united-liverpoolSanchez Watt’s interesting evening:http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43314870 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dear Listeners,Once again we want to show some love to the many of you who send in your correspondence. In this special you’ll hear us discuss a potentially dark twist in the future of VAR, fake warmth (the scourge of League Two) and what football can learn from Wrestlemania. You want more? You got it. There’s Stuart Pearce kicking off at the opera, more warlock chat, and footballers at weddings.It’s the kind of stuff you just won’t get on Jermaine Jenas’ Mail Bag, presumably coming soon. Best wishes,The Football RambleSearch ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The lining of Carlos Carvalhal’s jacket inspires his rejuvenated Swans to victory over generous West Ham, Arsenal’s holograms at least manage consistency and Antonio Conte simply doesn’t seem that fussed. Alongside all this, Garth Crooks attacks science, we discuss our various personal vendettas and Marcus is keen to fill up that England plane, potentially with Championship players. Why not eh?Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:Eden Hazard on barely touching the ball against Man City:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/mar/05/eden-hazard-chelsea-antonio-conte-manchester-city-premier-leagueThierry Henry on the Arsenal job:http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/thierry-henry-arsenal-rumours-arsene-wenger-speak-out-next-manager-a8239951.htmlVideo:Patrick Bamford’s on fire:http://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/competitions/championship/11273802/middlesbrough-3-0-leeds Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Both snow and goals fell heavily at Wembley as Spurs march on in the FA Cup, Burnley and Everton brick up their nets and scoff at the very idea of something as fancy as scoring, while the lucky boys of Liverpool look forward to a visit from Newcastle. Elsewhere Pete faces a difficult choice between two of his great loves, we witness the beginning of a family feud, and request your tales of footballers at weddings.This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:A confused Thibaut Courtois on Antonio Conte and Eden Hazard:http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/chelsea-team-news-manchester-united-eden-hazard-thibaut-courtois-antonio-conte-a8232716.htmlSadio Mane on Jurgen Klopp:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11669/11269844/sadio-mane-says-jurgen-klopps-team-ethic-is-the-key-to-liverpools-successChris Brunt is unimpressed by Alan Pardew’s tactical prowess:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11698/11269472/chris-brunt-critical-of-alan-pardews-tactics-in-west-broms-defeat-to-huddersfield Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pep Guardiola gets his first trophy as Man City manager, inspires another dissection of Arsenal and is accused of harbouring a fugitive all at once, while Jose Mourinho emerges victorious in a rare on-pitch ding dong with Antonio Conte, and down at The Hawthorns Alan Pardew is as bemused as the rest of us.On top of all this there’s a warlock, an earful for Tony Pulis and though there may be bad blood in the correspondence section there’s also a trip to Kevin Keegan’s Soccer Circus and a humble gift from Sol Campbell.Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:Pep Guardiola is defiant about his yellow ribbon:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/feb/25/pep-guardiola-carabao-cup-push-manchester-city-trebleIndependiente’s attempt at wizardry:https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/independiente-bring-along-a-sorcerer-help-them-win-recopa-sudamericanaSunderland vs Middlesbrough highlights:http://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/competitions/championship/11266018/sunderland-3-3-middlesbrough Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FA Cup has delivered again, as just when it looked like Man City might win everything, up stepped Wigan, and then for some reason Peter Reid. Composing ourselves after this development we look ahead to the Carabao Cup Final, look back at Pete’s red carpet adventures and reflect on Nobby Solano’s choice of holiday destination. Meanwhile, on the same show, Patrice Evra Patrice Evras, Mesut Ozil gets the sniffles and we take a brief moment to remember to worry about England. This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:Patrice Evra’s taxi antics:http://www.espn.co.uk/football/blog/the-toe-poke/65/post/3389090/west-ham-defender-patrice-evra-drives-taxi-to-workAntonio Conte on his Chelsea marriage:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/feb/21/antonio-conte-settle-differences-chelsea-board-stayAleksandar Mitrovic off the mark for Fulham:http://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/competitions/championship/11261138/bristol-city-1-1-fulham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week brings wonderful drama from the FA Cup courtesy of Rochdale and their manager Keith Hill, a man who in a way is all of our dads, Carlos Carvalhal distracts from a goalless draw with some welcome Police Academy chat and in The Championship Mimin’ Mick McCarthy is gloriously tetchy after the Old Farm Derby.As well as all this precious gold there’s the novel concept of tackling above the head, some retro Portsmouth organisational slapstick and some sausage-based fun north of the border. Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:FA Cup talking points:https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2018/feb/19/fa-cup-fifth-round-10-talking-points-from-weekend-actionTaxigate:https://www.expressandstar.com/sport/2018/02/18/west-brom-taxi-gate-four-ridiculously-stupid-storms-legend-wile/Keith Hill on Dele Alli:http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/fa-league-cups/rochdale-tottenham-hotspur-keith-hill-mauricio-pochettino-penalty-a8216961.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a time getting acquainted with Claude Puel’s radiator Riyad Mahrez is ready for FA Cup action, as are Spurs as they head to Rochdale’s obstacle course of a pitch, and Man United hope to cause an upset by finding a way past Huddersfield. There are special days for Neymar and Kevin Keegan, an expose on the devious Going for Glold tactics of our dear host and a lot of painful, disruptive head turning. This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:Riyad Mahrez is now better in training according to Claude Puel:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11712/11250077/riyad-mahrez-performing-even-better-than-before-man-city-transfer-saga-says-claude-puelCarlos Carvalhal’s return to Sheffield Wednesday:https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/inside-story-swansea-city-boss-14289648Rochdale’s leveller of a pitch:http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43035066 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This show features that rarest of beasts; a happy Pete Donaldson, giddy from a Newcastle win and a mutant chicken binge. Not only that, we have the North London Derby, chaos between Stoke and Brighton and more importantly, a penis being seen. If that isn’t enough there’s also time for revelations about football’s bald illuminati, Tim Sherwood’s surprising sideline and our interest being piqued by the concept of a solution to the “not quite a yellow, not quite a red” problem. Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:Martin Dubravka’s Newcastle debut:https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/martin-dubravka-debut-watch-how-14275921Graeme Souness on Paul Pogba:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/29328/11246213/graeme-souness-explains-paul-pogba-criticism-he-doesnt-understand-role-without-the-ballVideo:Sunderland make one of the comebacks of the season:http://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/competitions/championship/11244901/bristol-city-3-3-sunderland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The North London Derby looms and will be particularly interesting as diving has now officially been declared fine, Ederson eases Man City’s injury crisis by reinventing himself as a midfielder and David Moyes gets a cheerleader in the form of fun-time Patrice Evra. We also shine a light on the maudlin nature of Antonio Conte’s current work, discover that fruit may work as an injury treatment and peak behind the curtain to meet playground bully Marcus Speller.This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:Pochettino on diving:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/feb/06/mauricio-pochettino-dele-alli-dive-tottenham-trickeryEderson the midfielder:https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/ederson-i-could-play-midfield-man-city-and-i-can-score-free-kicks-tooRiyad Mahrez’s Leicester troubles:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11712/11239423/riyad-mahrez8217s-leicester-city-legacy-sad-if-this-story-is-tarnished Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jurgen Klopp pops his top at Anfield after more referee related grievances (but luckily Pete’s devised a novel way to improve them once and for all), Arsenal roar back into the title race and the relegation scrap stays determinedly tight.  Elsewhere there’s a welcome return for Ramble (Marcus) favourite Joe the Goal, we make a splash in Vietnam and there are worrying developments in Russia as yet more insects threaten to invade an international football tournament.Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] take advantage of our Harry’s razors offer and get a trial set for just £3.95, it’s: http://harrys.com/ramble Further reading:Andy Brassell on Ademola Lookman’s RB Leipzig debut:https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2018/feb/05/ademola-lookman-slips-slides-from-everton-into-leipzig-affectionsJurgen Klopp isn’t happy:http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/42940280Those pesky locusts:http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/russia-world-cup-2018-locusts-pitches-news-latest-a8187221.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As another transfer window slams dramatically and confusingly shut we do our best to assess who has done well and what Arsenal were actually planning, Dele Alli shows all the signs of following in the footsteps of many an England great at the World Cup and those resurgent swans of Swansea start to fly up the table. Within our usual ‘professionality’ there’s also talk of club therapists leaking information to the press, confusion at the gates of Wembley and a delightful airport tantrum. This show is sponsored by bet365Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] reading:Transfer window round up:https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/feb/01/transfer-deadline-day-round-up-tottenham-lucas-mouraSam Allardyce on Ademola Lookman:https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/how-ademola-lookmans-stubborness-forced-14230764Riyad Mahrez gets all sad:http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/42895613 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

And there you were thinking there'd be no action at St James's Park on Transfer Deadline Day!As promised in the 12 Rambles of Christmas we’re back to shine a light on Mike Ashley’s reign of errors at Newcastle United, courtesy of competition winner Matt Baker!There’s the return (and subsequent mugging off) of Kevin Keegan, the Cockney Mafia, Joe Kinnear swearing, a lot, er Alan Pardew also swearing, Alan Pardew head-butting and, of course, POWER DRINKING.Here’s hoping a great club gets the ownership it deserves soon, but until then, well you've got to laugh haven't you? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FA Cup rolls on with a delightful cameo from Shola Ameobi, West Ham fans get angry and we hear more tales of humility from Man of the People Carlos Tevez. Elsewhere Mick McCarthy turns a phrase, Leeds get lost in translation and Marcus gets his hope back. There’s also time to hear about Luke’s trip to Fratton Park, play a vintage edition of Going for Glold and an honest assessment of Rodney Parade.Search ‘Football Ramble’ on social media to find us, and email us here: [email protected] take advantage of our Harry’s razors offer and get a trial set for just £3.95, it’s: http://harrys.com/ramble Further reading:West Ham transfers: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/911398/West-Ham-transfer-news-revealed-Insider-reveals-deals-which-will-and-won-t-be-doneFA Cup latest, including Wigan and Notts County: http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/42846623 Portsmouth lose to Shrewsbury: http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/42756510  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s FA Cup weekend again and Marcus’ soothsmelling nose sniffs a cup upset, the Class of ’92 make some noise to check that nobody has forgotten they were really good and as usual there’s plenty of weasel chat. As we further survey the footballing land we spy on Chelsea’s transfers shenanigans, yet more woe from the Stadium of Light and, as is only correct, Neil Warnock is heavily involved. This show is sponsored by bet365 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An eventful show as Watford engage in their traditional managerial sacking, Man United and Arsenal engage in the lesser-spotted swap deal and Chelsea for some reason continue their attempts to create a basketball team. And there’s more! Marcus has a new crush, we learn about Sean Dyche’s seduction techniques, Carlos Tevez gets some bad press and Jim strikes a blow in his ongoing yet previously unmentioned war with Roger Federer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marcus returns from Argentina and even beef lag can’t keep him down, especially not when there’s talk of Andy Carroll moving to Chelsea, the criminal investigations of the Mayor of Liverpool and a gob full of worms to chew over. So to speak. On top of all this the long mooted Newcastle takeover careers into the buffers, we have one of our all time great pieces of correspondence and Ronaldinho retires from football, but not from our hearts. This show is sponsored by bet365 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wow! Liverpool vindicate one of Moorestradamus’ recent visions with a narrative-shredding performance at Anfield, the bottom end of the table heats up as the Pardew Bounce finally arrives and the Crosthwaite family of SW6 make life difficult for Chelsea.Elsewhere Ryan Giggs earns a chance at Wales, Joselu pops up as he will all too occasionally do and there are the warmest of words for James Milner.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bristol City provide the gifs that keep on giffing after their narrowbao Carabao Cup defeat to Man City, Chelsea and Arsenal play second fiddle to the VAR narrative because they managed to play a game in which nothing happened and we look ahead to what is potentially the thigh rubber of the season as Liverpool welcome Man City to Anfield. On top of this bonanza there are important dentistry updates, ill thought out comments about voodoo and hopeful anticipation of messrs O’Neill and Keane coming in to solve the case of Stoke City. This show is sponsored by bet365 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 3rd round of the FA Cup doesn’t disappoint as it features upsets, wonder goals and gallon upon gallon of claret. We dissect Arsenal’s fey misanthropes, bask in the glory of how good Virgil Van Dijk is when he’s trying and say “thanks for the memories” to Mark Hughes.Elsewhere we offer the insightful perspective on modern dentistry that we’ve become synonymous with, lament a rarely seen type of weather and find a way to help one of our nation’s favourite broadcasters with the simple application of Refbot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arsene Wenger’s crusade against referees continues as he blows his top following a pulsating draw with Chelsea, Swansea and Spurs overcome a Bible-level flood event and the fun keeps coming as FA Cup weekend kicks off with the Merseyside derby.BUT THERE’S MORE! The fixture pile up has sent Alan Pardew straight to the bottom of the Pardew slide, another statue arrives, we have some excitable correspondence and Moorestradamus makes perhaps his boldest prediction yet. This show is sponsored by bet365 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re back in a brand new year and there has been sooo much football. The Mark Hughes fuse looks close to blowing, Liverpool get good at dragging games over the line while their players head off to awards ceremonies and Manchester United come under siege from the Kings of Rock ’n Roll. Elsewhere, surprisingly proportioned statue, Sadio Mane’s delightful former club and a heartwarming tale of a family sticking together. You get it by now.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello! It’s that weird week between Christmas and new year where nobody knows what day it is but it’s fine because there’s loads of football, and about football we chat. There’s Harry Kane’s magnificent calendar year, Yaya Toure’s annual wheeling out in what’s becoming his own personal panto season, and the merciful end to Virgil van Dijk and Liverpool’s transfer saga. Elsewhere there’s your highlights of the year, our usual round up of Liberian politics and we hear from Uruguay’s maddest man.This show is sponsored by bet365 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the top spot on our list, it's the two greatest players to have ever lived. It would be fantastic had just one of these men come along at the same time as The Football Ramble, but to have not one but two, both seemingly vying for that right to occupy the title of Greatest Player Ever in our time is incredible.As we finish our Christmas countdown of the best, most interesting events and themes since we started the show in 2007, it's an absolute pleasure to spend some time discussing the continuing narrative between Messi and Ronaldo, forever intertwined in a blur of speed, skill, trophies and goals. Two individuals rightly occupy our number one spot in a show about a team game. That should tell you everything you need to know about their quality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Potentially the greatest club manager to have ever walked the Earth, Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 after 26 years and an astonishing 38 trophies at the helm of Manchester United. What followed was chaos as the sublime turned into the ridiculous and United struggled to replace such a colossal figure.Nearly five years on Jose Mourinho rules the roost at Old Trafford, but the shockwaves of Ferguson's retirement continue to be felt. In number two on our list, we discuss what impact he had and what the future holds for one of the world's biggest clubs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arguably the greatest club side we've ever seen, Pep Guardiola's Barcelona were the team that swept aside all before them, playing an irresistible blend of attacking, possession-based football while doing so. Using tactics and application that are still having an influence around the world in 2017 on the way to winning everything, we pore over the era that brought us Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, Sergio Busquets, Pedro and of course the great Lionel Messi in a team that will never be forgotten. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As yuletide approaches we discuss Bristol City’s EFL Cup win over Man United and Lee Johnson’s sadly redundant and expensive wine, Swansea running around like headless swans, whether a swan could deck an eagle and Arsenal plotting the revenge of the fifth on fourth-placed Liverpool.As if that ain’t enough we put the spotlight onto Alan Pardew and his assistant John Carver, who in turn puts the spotlight onto our favourite journeyman assistants. WE WANT YOURS. Have yourselves a merry little Christmas!This show is sponsored by bet365. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 2015, the wheels finally fell off Sepp Blatter's corrupt FIFA vehicle, an event that was celebrated far and wide by just about every football fan. What followed was a delicious blend of chaos and ridicule.In number four on our countdown, we pick over the fallout as the FBI got involved, Big Sepp ran for president, won, resigned and then attempted to renege on his resignation, all the soundtrack of satisfied sighs and chuckles from football fans all over the world, not least Andrew Jennings, the man who started the entire fightback. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No international team has typified the last ten years of football better than Spain and their three trophies in a row between 2008 and 2012. With a group of all-time great players such as Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Xabi Alonso, Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos, La Furia Roja dominated the international landscape for our first five years in the studio.Those teams were a joy to watch and a joy to talk about, and here we reminisce on what was undoubtedly one of the greatest eras in football history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No manager has quite had the impact on football since 2007, both on and off the field, of Jose Mourinho. Even when not managing in England his shadow has always loomed large, and his time at the helm of two of the Premier League's most successful clubs in the modern era has never been short on drama.In no.6 on our countdown we tell of our experiences covering the man and his actions and try to work out what makes him such a box office attraction for better or worse in the game. Don't forget to submit a suggestion for your favourite moment of the last ten years for a chance to win a Toshiba TV and have that moment recorded in the New Year! Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pete’s uncouth army roll into North London and leave with nothing, Man City do their thing against Spurs but there’s a surprising consolation for Mousa Dembele and David Moyes continues the renaissance not a single person doubted was coming.As well as all this Roy the Boy rides back into town, Sunderland save some face and undo the embarrassment of the past year and there is CONTROVERSY with Going for Glold. Come inside and have an egg nog, even though this isn’t a Christmas special.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.