Straight Outta Cobham: The Athletic FC's Chelsea show

Turns out it *really* is really, really cold in Kazakhstan...Matt Davies-Adams has got Jessy Parker Humphreys, Liam Twomey and a whole load of special guests all the way over in Almaty as Chelsea made their longest ever trip for European competition - and came out on top with a comfortable 3-1 win in arctic conditions.We speak to fans from far and wide about their love for the club - and what made them make the 3000+ mile journey to follow the Blues abroad!Attention then turns to Sunday night's showdown with fellow West Londoners Brentford, who rather enjoy playing at Stamford Bridge...Plus - Jessy brings us up to speed with the latest goings on for the women's team - and we do a quiz!We'll be back on Monday with our reflections on the visit of bogey team the Bees and a look ahead to the final Conference League group game against Shamrock Rovers!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey and Jessy Parker HumphreysPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another thoroughly entertaining and rewarding trip to Three Point Lane...Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Chelsea finest - Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey alongside him to look back on the crazy 4-3 victory over Tottenham on Sunday afternoon.We try and unpack the carnage that unfolded with the help of your messages - including how the turnaround came about, love for Sancho - and quelling of talk of title charges.Then, anyone for a trip to Kazakstan?! We preview Thursday's arctic encounter with Astana.Elsewhere, Chelsea Women returned from the international break with yet another victory - this time beating previous banana skin Brighton 4-2. Sonia Bompastor's side are back in action against Twente in the Champions League on Wednesday night.We'll be back on Friday (or maybe late Thursday night if Producer Lucy can stay awake in Almaty and finish the edit in time) to reflect on the latest Conference League adventure and preview Sunday evening's visit of Brentford.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

That did the old goal difference no harm at all...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey to look back on the 5-1 thumping of a sorry Southampton at St Mary's on Wednesday night. Simon Johnson sends his post-match thoughts on what he described as the 'unrecognisable feel-good factor' around the club at the moment after yet another impressive victory for Enzo Maresca's side.But it means nothing if they can't go across to their old friends in North London and get a result on Sunday afternoon...The Athletic's Tottenham report Jay Harris stops by to give us an insight into Ange Postecoglou's enigmatic Spurs side ahead of the big meeting in N17.CFCW are back in action on Sunday as they host Brighton - looking to make it eight wins from eight in the WSL. Plus - who'll come out on top in the quiz?!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So... should we be talking about Chelsea as serious contenders?!Matt Davies-Adams has got two of the Athletic's finest - Luke Bosher and Simon Johnson alongside him to run the rule over the highly convincing 3-0 win over Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon. Liam Twomey was on site and sent his dispatch as Enzo and co received the plaudits from a jubilant crowd.The Blues will be hoping to bottle up the current positivity when they make the trip to Southampton on Wednesday evening. We look ahead to that game against an injury and suspension-ravaged Saints side.We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on the trip to St Mary's and look ahead to the small matter of Sunday's showdown with Tottenham in North London!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Climbing that hill was worth it...Matt Davies-Adams has got Jessy Parker Humphreys and Dom Fifield with him to look back on the 2-0 Conference League victory over Heidenheim out in Germany.Back to Premier League matters on Sunday - with a faltering Aston Villa in town having won just 1 of their last 7 in the league. So, would a win here mean Chelsea need to start to be considered serious contenders for a top four spot - or even higher?As usual we exploit Jessy for their WSL expertise to check in on the rather excellent fortunes of CFCW - before a quiz AND some Nicholas Jackson karaoke...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on Sunday's Aston Villa match and look ahead to the midweek trip to Southampton!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Jessy Parker Humphreys and Dom FifieldPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anyone else fancy kicking lumps out of Cole Palmer?Matt Davies-Adams has got Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson along for the ride to look back on the 2-1 victory at Leicester - which was in truth far more comfortable a win than the scoreline suggested. We lavish praise on Nicholas Jackson and take a closer look at some of the tactical tweaks Enzo Maresca made in a pretty experimental line up.Then, The Athletic's German football correspondent Seb Stafford-Bloor stops by to give us the inside line on Thursday's Europa Conference League opponents Heidenheim - and their very large hill!Plus, guess what?! Chelsea Women won again!We'll be back on Friday to reflect on Thursday night's German adventure AND preview Sunday's visit of Aston Villa to Stamford Bridge.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson, Liam Twomey & Seb Stafford-BloorPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not the kind of news we wanted to start with...Matt Davies-Adams has got Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher alongside him to get back in the swing of things ahead of Saturday's Enzo Maresca Derby.But before we get to the game - we start with the news that Reece James has suffered yet another injury setback - picking up a hamstring problem in the international break. It was revealed by Enzo Maresca in his pre-match press conference shortly after we'd finished recording - so we jumped back on to hear from the boss and give our reflections on the latest bad news for the club captain.Then it's back to focusing on the Foxes - with talk of midfield dynamics, tricky wingers and favourable fixtures - plus a special guest to give us some insight into Saturday's hosts...There was more joy for CFCW as they cruised to a 3-0 win over Celtic at Stamford Bridge to progress to the quarterfinals with two games to spare - plus we bid an emotional farewell to Hilário - and do a quiz!We'll return on Monday to look back on the trip to the Kingpower and preview Thursday's visit to Germany to take on Heidenheim in the Conference League.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chelsea Women are *literally* perfect...Matt Davies-Adams and Liam Twomey are with you for your Monday dose of Straight Outta Cobham.Jessy Parker Humphreys drops in to reflect on the huge 2-0 victory for CFCW over title rivals Manchester City at Stamford Bridge - which leaves Sonia Bompastor's side with seven wins from seven and a hugely significant three points against their closest challengers.Then, The Athletic's football data writer Thom Harris stops by to give us an insight into some of the tactical intricacies of Enzo Maresca's Blues - including whether there's any fitting Christopher Nkunku into the current system, Cole Palmer's best role, and whether the omission of Enzo Fernandez is actually costing Chelsea from an attacking perspective...There's a brief whistle-stop tour around some of the international action, plus a word on the latest FFP implications - and we revisit the 'which former player would you bring back and put in the current team?' debate!We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to Saturday's trip to Leicester - and bring you the result from Wednesday's visit of Celtic in the Women's Champions League.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey, Jessy Parker Humphries and Thom HarrisPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the proper football back yet?Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Simon Johnson with him to tackle some of your questions as we try and pass the hours in the never tedious international break.We touch on defensive fragility, the A/B team dynamic, the latest on the ownership fallout - and tips for getting into sport journalism!Elsewhere, Chelsea Women continued their perfect start to the season with a 2-1 victory over Celtic in the Champions League. Jessy Parker Humphreys sends their thoughts on the latest win for Sonia Bompastor's side.Plus - how much do you remember about the season so far? There's a quiz for that...We'll be back on Monday to take a closer look at Chelsea's season so far - and check in with Jessy to see how CFCW have fared in arguably their biggest test of the season so far against title rivals Manchester City in the WSL.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back, Kai...Two of The Athletic's finest - Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey - are alongside Matt Davies-Adams as we reflect on the feisty and tesne 1-1 draw with Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.We question the signs of progress against the 'big' sides, Enzo's team tinkering with captain Reece James on the bench - and the continuing Robert Sánchez sized elephant in the room.Elsewhere, Chelsea Women just keep doing Chelsea Women things in a 3-0 win at Liverpool to extend their perfect start to the WSL season to six wins from six!It might be the international break, but we'll be back with you on Thursday AND Monday this time round to keep you right across all the latest Blues news in the never dull world of Chelsea Football Club.Follow us on X: x.com/SOCobhamPodEmail us: [email protected]: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They only managed eight?!?Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Jessy Parker Humphreys and Simon Johnson to revel in the good vibes felt at Stamford Bridge following the 8-0 victory over Noah in the Europa Conference League. It's prompted more questions about the benefits of Chelsea being in the competition and whether they're 'too big' to be competing at this level - but we've all been drinking the ECL Kool-Aid!It's fair to say the test on Sunday will be a *little bit* tougher - with Arsenal making the visit to SW6 to take on the Blues - who haven't beaten the Gunners since August 2021. Adrian Clarke stops by to give us an insight into Mikel Arteta's side - including their injury concerns and the impact (or lack thereof) that Raheem Sterling and Kai Havertz have had so far at The Emirates...We touch base with the women's side ahead of their trip to take on Liverpool on Sunday, round up a disappointing cup exit for the U21's - and do a quiz!We'll be back on Monday for all the fallout from that huge clash with Arsenal - plus all the other Blues news from across a busy weekend.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson and Jessy Parker HumphreysPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The wait for an Old Trafford win goes on...Matt Davies-Adams has got two of The Athletic's finest - Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher - alongside him to look back on the frustrating 1-1 draw with Manchester United.We dissect the potential imbalance in Maresca's system, ponder the back line conundrum - and wonder whether Chelsea will ever score from a set piece again...Then it's all eyes on Thursday night - with Armenian outfit Noah in town on matchday three of the Europa Conference League. Who needs minutes most? Who's got to take their chance? And who are Noah?!Meanwhile, Chelsea Women continued their blistering start to the season as they made it a perfect five wins from five for Sonia Bompastor's side in the WSL after their 5-0 thrashing of Everton at Goodison Park.We'll be back on Friday to reflect on the visit of Noah and preview Sunday's mouthwatering showdown with Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

11 changes too many...Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey with him to look back on the disappointing 2-0 cup exit at the hands of Newcastle on Wednesday night. We ponder the wisdom of the decision to field an entirely changed XI - and whether we should be worried about the disparity in quality between the 'A' and 'B' teams.Now to see whether the changes were worth it - as Chelsea prepare for a trip to face Ruud van Nistelrooy's Manchester United. The Athletic's Carl Anka is on hand to help us gauge the mood around Old Trafford following the departure of Erik ten Hag as Enzo Maresca's side look to end a torrid run of form which has seen them fail to win on the road at United since 2013!!There's a round up of the Blues news elsewhere - with CFCW back in action after the international break with a trip to Everton on Sunday night.And of course - we finish with a quiz with a Manchester United flavour...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on events at Old Trafford and preview the midweek visit of Armenian outfit Noah in the Conference League.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey, Luke Bosher & Carl AnkaPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Magpies double-header is off to a good start...Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher alongside him to look back on Sunday afternoon's 2-1 victory over Newcastle in the Premier League. We eulogise over *that* Palmer pass, discuss the return of Reece James amid questions over his 'leadership' credentials - and wonder what this line-up tells us about Enzo's roll in midfield...There's not long to wait until the next match-up with Eddie Howe's men - off to St James' Park on Wednesday night in the last 16 of the Carabao Cup. We pick our starting XI's for that game and ponder the importance of this competition.We'll be back on Thursday to look back on that cup tie AND look ahead of Sunday's trip to Old Trafford to take on a beleaguered Manchester United (new manager bounce, anyone?! Sigh)HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey & Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They're quite good at this whole Conference League thing...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Jessy Parker Humphreys and Luke Bosher to look back on the hugely comfortable 4-1 win over Panathinaikos over in Athens which leaves Chelsea with three wins from three in Europe. Liam Twomey was at the match for The Athletic and sends his musings. Will anyone be enough to stop Enzo Maresca's side from going all the way and winning the competition?It's back to the bread and butter of the Premier League on Sunday afternoon as the Blues host Newcastle at Stamford Bridge. There's a look ahead to that game - plus a focus on the fortunes of CFCW so far this season AND a first-time quiz match up as Jessy and Luke go head-to-head in a high-quality contest...We'll be back on Monday to recount the Premier League clash with the Magpies AND look ahead to Wednesday's trip to St James' Park for the second dose of Newcastle in the Carabao Cup.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Jessy Parker Humphreys and Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The winless streak against Liverpool stretches to 10...Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher with him to look back on Sunday afternoon's 2-1 defeat at Anfield. We talk Reece's return, defensive fragility and the Neto v Sancho selection conundrum - plus a chance to hear from Enzo Maresca in conversation with Simon after the game.The attention turns to Thursday night's Conference League jaunt to Athens to take on Panathinaikos.Plus, Chelsea Women continue their winning start to the season with a 5-2 rout of Spurs - with a simply stunning goal from Johanna Rytting Kaneryd which left some of us choking at the breakfast table!We'll be back on Friday to review the Blues' trip to Greece and look ahead to Sunday's Premier League clash with Newcastle.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson & Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's about to get real...Matt Davies-Adams has got Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson alongside him as we get back into the swing of domestic matters.We round up all the news from across the international break - including plenty of honours, national team fortunes and the return of Thomas Tuchel...Then it's all eyes on the trip to Anfield! The Athletic's Liverpool correspondent James Pearce stops by to give us an insight into Arne Slot's side ahead of Sunday's game - whilst we take a closer look at the key selection issues going into the clash.There's a round up of CFCW's recent fortunes - and a quiz!We'll be with you again on Monday to look back on the visit to Anfield (if Producer Lucy returns from Miami!) and preview Thursday's trip to Panathinaikos.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey & Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Those trees are awfully tricky...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey to look back on Sunday's spicy 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest. So - was it a point gained or two dropped given the circumstances? And what's wrong with Enzo Fernández?Champions League football is back at Stamford Bridge! Chelsea Women get their campaign underway on Tuesday night when they take on Real Madrid. Jessy Parker Humphrey's swings by to preview that game and reflect on their early season fortunes under Sonia Bompastor.We'll be back after the international break to round up all the latest Blues news while we've been away AND look ahead to the huge trip to Anfield to take on Liverpool.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson, Liam Twomey & Jessy Parker-HumphreysPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thursday night under the lights...Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher in tow to look back on the 4-2 victory over Gent in Matchday 1 of the Conference League at Stamford Bridge.Then - it's all eyes on the MDA Derby with Nottingham Forest in town on Sunday afternoon!Plus, CFCW may have the weekend off after the botched scheduling drama - BUT congratulations are in order for Millie Bright...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on Sunday's visit of Forest before pausing for the second international break of the season.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson & Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's Cole's world and we're all just living in it...Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher alongside him to go full fanboy after a truly remarkable showing from Cole Palmer in the crazy 4-2 victory over Brighton on Saturday afternoon.After revelling in that glory it's all eyes on Thursday night's first UEFA Conference League 'League Stage' match - with Belgian side Gent in town. Listener Stephane - who's got a foot in both camps - give us an insight into what Chelsea can expect from the visitors.Plus, CFCW continued their perfect start to the season with a whopping 7-0 win at Crystal Palace. Jessy Parker Humphrey's drops in to give us the lowdown - and the latest on some scheduling shenanigans...We'll be back on Friday to reflect on the Blues' Conference League exploits the night before - and look ahead to Sunday's visit of Nottingham Forest!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher, Simon Johnson, Liam Twomey & Jessy Parker HumphreysPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not a bad whole new starting XI...Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey with him for your second weekly dose of Chelsea chat.The Blues cruised into the fourth round of the League Cup following their 5-0 victory over League Two Barrow... we look back on the game and hear from Pedro Neto in conversation with our very own Simon Johnson, who scored his first goal for the club.Then it's all eyes on Saturday's game against unbeaten Brighton at Stamford Bridge. We weigh up the chances of Christopher Nkunku starting - and rate the overall prospects against Fabian Hürzeler's side.There's a word on CFCW's second Friday night game in succession as they prepare to face newly promoted Crystal Palace, plus all the other Blues news AND the latest quiz match up between Bosher and Twomey...We'll be back on Monday to round up the visit of the Seagulls - and look ahead to the start of the Europa Conference League proper - with Belgian outfit Gent in town on Thursday night.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey and Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

10 goals in 12 London derbies already?Matt Davies-Adams has got two of The Athletic's finest - Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey - alongside him to look back on the impressive 3-0 win over West Ham at London Stadium on Saturday.We heap praise on Nicholas Jackson and Moisés Caicedo for their stellar performances - hear from Tosin in the mixed zone with Simon - and reflect on the presence of Todd Boehly AND Behdad Eghbali in the posh seats...Plus, there were a big three points to kick off their WSL campaign and title defence for Sonia Bompastor's CFCW - 1-0 winners against Aston Villa on Friday night.We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on the League Cup third round tie against Barrow AND look ahead to Saturday's visit of Brighton.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey & Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva (who apologises for the late publication of the podcast due to flight chaos on the way back from New York!) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Davies Adams is back with Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson alongside him to assess a relatively relaxing week by recent Chelsea standards. We talk changes up top for the game against West Ham, who would get your nod between Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku?And a listener asks who’s the right choice for right back with both Malo Gusto and Reece James out injured? Plus, who'll triumph in the latest quiz?!We'll be back next Thursday to reflect on the trip to the London stadium - and look ahead to hosting Brighton at the Bridge.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey & Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Steve Hankey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Has anyone got a spare yellow card?Matt Davies-Adams is joined by two of The Athletic's finest - Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey - to look back on the scrappy 1-0 win at Bournemouth on Saturday night.We talk big stops from Robert Sánchez, a 45 minute debut to remember for Jadon Sancho - love for Renato Veiga and eye catching headlines...Then, it's all eyes on the WSL as the Sonia Bompastor era officially begins on Friday evening. We draft in our friend Jessy Parker Humphreys to preview the opening day clash against Aston Villa - and hopes for the upcoming season.We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to Saturday's visit to West Ham - and take another look at Friday night's WSL opener against Villa.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher, Liam Twomey & Jessy Parker HumphreysPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fun fact: it's never, ever, ever, EVER dull at Chelsea Football Club.Matt Davies Adams is back with Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson alongside him to reflect on all the latest Blues news we've missed during the international break. Spoiler alert... quite a lot has happened!We talk ownership crisis and stadium moves - before turning our attention to Saturday night's visit to Bournemouth.Plus, who'll triumph in the latest quiz?!We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the trip to the seaside - and look ahead to the start of the WSL season!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey & Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The streak is over...Matt Davies-Adams has got Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield in tow to reflect on the 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge. Simon Johnson was in place and sent us his match report - plus we speculate about the role that Christopher Nkunku will have in this team going forward.There's a chance to round up some of the deadline day antics we missed on Friday - including the late arrival of Jadon Sancho and departure of Raheem Sterling and Trevoh Chalobah...Plus - pack your bags for Kazakhstan! We're all going on a Conference League adventure!We're taking our own international break - but we'll be back on Thursday 12th September to look ahead to the trip to Bournemouth and round up any of the Blues news we might have missed.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Dom Fifield & Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They made very hard work of it...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Simon Johnson and Dom Fifield to look back on their slightly perilous progress in the Conference League despite the 2-1 defeat by Servette out in Geneva. Liam Twomey was there and sent us an on the whistle report.Our slightly dicey time of recording - Friday morning - means there may have been *plenty* of Deadline Day fun in the meantime - BUT we discuss the latest ins and outs anyway!Then - it's all eyes on the Dom Derby as we preview the visit of Crystal Palace to Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon.Plus - a round up of the latest Blues news elsewhere and an alternative quiz...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on events against the Eagles ahead of the first international break of the season.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson, Dom Fifield & Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

That's one way to end the Molineux hoodoo!It's a jubilant Bank Holiday pod record as Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher to look back on the 6-2 thrashing of Wolverhampton Wanderers.We salute Noni and his Instagram antics, laud goal and assist machine Cole Palmer - and wonder whether the signs are there that this team could be gelling after a long and tumultuous summer.There's the latest transfer gossip with less than a week to go until the window *slams* shut - including the latest on Armando Broja's departure - and rumours of an approach for Jadon Sancho?!The Blues are back in action on Thursday night as they head out to Switzerland to take on Servette - with a two-goal advantage in their UEFA Conference League play-off tie.Plus - CFCW continued their winning start under Sonia Bompastor with a 1-0 win over Arsenal Stateside.We'll be back on Friday to hopefully report on a smooth-sailing victory in Geneva AND a serene transfer deadline day...HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher & Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A win's a win...Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher alongside him as we reflect on the first competitive victory of the Enzo Maresca reign in their 2-0 win over Servette on Thursday night.We take a closer look at some of the explosive comments in Enzo's pre-match press conference regarding the size of the squad and futures of Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell. Simon was in the room to witness the spiciness.Then - it's all eyes on Sunday afternoon's trip to Wolves - a place that has NOT been a happy hunting ground for the Blues in recent years. The Athletic's Wolves expert Steve Madeley joins us to shine the spotlight on Gary O'Neil's side.Oh - and it wouldn't be a Thursday (or Friday!) pod without a quiz...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the trip to Molineux and look ahead to the Conference League second leg out in Geneva.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson, Luke Bosher & Steve MadeleyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Well... it could have been worse?!Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson to look back on the 2-0 opening day defeat by Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.We try and take the positives - including the performance of Romeo Lavia, discuss the Enzo Fernández conundrum after he was handed the armband - and shine the spotlight on the debutants thrown on to try and make their mark.Build-up to the game was somewhat overshadowed by a bombshell statement released by Raheem Sterling's camp after he was left out of the matchday squad. We ponder what the wider ramifications could be going forward....Then, it's all eyes on Thursday night - as the Blues begin their voyage to officially 'win it all' in their first appearance in the UEFA Conference League.We'll be back on Friday to reflect on the play-off first leg against Servette - and look ahead to the tricky trip to Molineux!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here we go again!Matt Davies-Adams has got two of The Athletic's finest - Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey alongside him to build-up to the first game of the 2024-25 Premier League season.We begin with the latest on the Conor Gallagher/ João Félix saga - and the news that Mauricio Pochettino is in line to become the new USMNT boss!Then it's onto some brief predictions for the campaign ahead - before we turn out attention to Sunday's visitors Manchester City with the help of City correspondent Sam Lee.Plus - after a big win in pre-season, can Liam carry that confidence into the first quiz of the new campaign?We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the opening day shenanigans and look forward to midweek UEFA Conference League fun...HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher, Liam Twomey & Sam LeePRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's nearly here...Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher alongside him as the final preparations for the 2024-25 Premier League season begin.We start with the latest transfer news - including the surprise signing of Pedro Neto and potential shock return of João Félix - which could have a big knock on effect for Conor Gallagher's departure...There are brief reflections from Sunday's 1-1 draw against Inter Milan in the final pre-season fixture of the summer.Then - we've got the unenviable task of trying to audit the entire extraordinarily large squad.Plus - your questions and thoughts as Enzo Maresca's side prepare to get their campaign underway!We'll be back on Thursday with comprehensive build-up to Sunday's Premier League opener against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey & Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have Chelsea ever heard of a quiet week?Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Blues expert Liam Twomey alongside him to reflect on another chaotic week for CFC.We begin with the Conference League draw - with Enzo Maresca's side set to face Braga or Servette in their play-off tie towards the end of the month.Then - the Conor Gallagher transfer chaos continues - with a move to Atlético de Madrid potentially hanging in the balance... We touch base with the latest developments and the unsavouriness that could follow if the deal doesn't go through.There's a look at the latest pre-season exploits over in the USA - including the humbling at the hands of Manchester City which followed signs of improvement against Club América.We'll be back on Monday to begin the build-up to the 2024-25 season in earnest!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey & Adam CraftonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did you miss us?!Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher to recap all the latest in the world of CFC after almost two months away...Plus, Simon Johnson drops by from Stateside to bring us up to speed with the pre-season tour - which hasn't *exactly* gone to plan so far results wise against Wrexham and Celtic.Plus - a chance to hear from summer signing Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall about life under Enzo Maresca and why when the Blues came knocking there was no turning them down!There's an update on the fallout from the Enzo Fernandez incident, transfer ins and outs (including a certain Napoli striker!), all change at the academy and a big departure for CFCW.We'll be back next week with the latest from pre-season and any other Blues news which develops.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey, Luke Bosher & Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello... again...A new Chelsea manager calls for yet another emergency podcast - which rather conveniently we were able to record at our end of season knees up!Matt Davies-Adams has got *literally* the whole gang alongside him to bring you reaction to the appointment of Enzo Maresca as the new Blues boss.So, what kind of manager is he? The Athletic's Leicester reporter Rob Tanner stops by to give us the lowdown on his time with the Foxes - and a word of warning if the owners are expecting a 'yes man'...Plus - the worst kept secret in women's football is finally out there - following the appointment of Sonia Bompastor as the new CFCW boss! Jessy Parker Humphreys is on hand to give us a bit of an insight into what Chelsea fans can expect from Emma Hayes' successor.Now that really is it until the start of the new season! No! More! Bonus! Pods! Or! Crazy! Chelsea! Announcements! (We hope!)Have a lovely, restful summer and we'll see you in August...HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson, Luke Bosher, Liam Twomey, Dom Fifield, Rob Tanner & Jessy Parker HumphreysPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our summer break lasted a whole 36 hours...Matt Davies-Adams parachutes in The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey for an emergency pod following the departure of manager Mauricio Pochettino by mutual consent.We bring you the inside story of how events transpired and led to the parting of ways - while taking your reaction and questions.Why now? Who's in the frame to take over? What does it mean for the future of the club and players going forward?It's just another day in the life of Chelsea Football Club.We'll see you again... soon?!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson & Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

And just like that, another rollercoaster, topsy turvy season is over...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey, Simon Johnson, Dom Fifield, Jessy Parker Humphreys AND Luke Bosher on his holidays to look back on another remarkable campaign at Chelsea Football Club.We begin with events at an emotional Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon as the club said goodbye to Thiago Silva AND the 2023-24 season with a 2-1 win over Bournemouth to secure 6th spot and European football.Then up to Old Trafford, and CFCW heroics as Emma Hayes signed off in style after overseeing a fifth straight WSL title following their 6-0 demolition of Manchester United.There's reflections on the wider season as a whole and what the future could hold for the likes of Mauricio Pochettino and Conor Gallagher - before our customary end of season quiz with a difference...We'll be back ~rejuvenated~ ahead of the 2024-25 campaign a little later in the summer - unless an emergency podcast is required in the meantime!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey, Simon Johnson, Dom Fifield & Jessy Parker HumphreysPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Four wins a row to put Chelsea in pole position for a European spot?!Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's CFC experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey alongside him to look back on the 2-1 victory at Brighton which moved the Blues up to sixth in the Premier League table.Elsewhere there was a narrow but huge victory for CFCW - beating Tottenham 1-0 at Brisbane Road to go into the last day of the season top of the WSL table on goal difference! Jessy Parker Humphrey's sends us their thoughts.And just like that we've reached the last game of the season - with the Cherries in town on Sunday afternoon as Mauricio Pochettino's men look to close out the 2023-24 season on a high...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the games against Bournemouth and Manchester United AND round up another crazy season in the life of Chelsea Football Club.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson & Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just imagine if we hadn't had all those injuries...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by two of The Athletic's finest - Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey - to revel in Saturday's 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.We lavish yet more praise on Cole Palmer, herald the return and impact of Reece James - and question where this leaves Chelsea's European hopes going into the final week of the season.There's then a look ahead to Wednesday night's trip to Brighton - and a huge clash in the WSL as CFCW face Tottenham in their penultimate game of the season.We'll be back on Thursday for our penultimate podcast of the season - reflecting on events at Brighton and Brisbane Road - AND looking ahead to Sunday's visit of Bournemouth.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey & Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keep, sell or loan out?Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Dom Fifield and Luke Bosher to take a deep dive into the Chelsea squad as we discuss the future of the current crop of players and their places at Stamford Bridge or elsewhere going forward.It's the small matter of the MDA derby on Saturday teatime as Mauricio Pochettino's side make the trip to Nottingham to face Forest! We look ahead to that one and ponder the motivation for both sides with Europe and Premier League safety potentially on the line.Then - Dom takes matters into his own hands with the quiz - and the shoe is on the other foot as Matt becomes a contestant...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the trip to the City Ground - and look ahead to the penultimate game of the season at Brighton.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Dom Fifield & Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Goals, goals, goals and more goals!Matt Davies-Adams has The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey alongside him to reflect on a fantastic Sunday of action for CFC & CFCW.We begin with a round up of the 5-0 thrashing of West Ham at Stamford Bridge - as Chalobah and Gallagher shone once more, Cucurella got his fans singing and European football suddenly started to look like a very real possibility...Then, remarkable scenes at Kingsmeadow for Emma Hayes' last home game in charge as they put EIGHT past Bristol City to take advantage of Man City's defeat by Arsenal earlier in the day. Jessy Parker Humphrey's captures the mood on a bonkers day in the WSL title race.We'll be back on Wednesday to look ahead to Saturday's trip to the City Ground in the MDA derby (coming a day early because a certain producer is off to Paris to see Taylor Swift...)HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson & Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can we play you every week?Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Dom Fifield in tow to look back on the thoroughly satisfying 2-0 win over Tottenham at Stamford Bridge ft a Liam voicenote and some singing...We round up the performance and give some love to Chalobah, Gallagher and Cucurella - before taking a closer look at the rather pointed post-match comments from Pochettino.Next up - West Ham come west in the final London derby of the season - we preview that game before reflecting on the shock defeat for Chelsea Women at Liverpool which all but ends their hopes of a fifth consecutive WSL title.And finally - a quiz to impress the lovely lady or man in your life this weekend...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on Sunday's latest London derby - and see whether CFCW have got back on track against Bristol City.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Dom Fifield & Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Refereeing and VAR controversy, you say? How original...Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson alongside him to look back on Saturday night's dramatic 2-2 draw with Aston Villa.But we begin with our tributes to the great Thiago Silva - who's announced he'll be leaving the club at the end of the season after four hugely influential years in West London.Then there's the small matter of a London/ Pochettino derby to look forward to on Thursday evening - with Tottenham making the short trip to SW6.Plus, our friend JPH drops by to reflect on the heartbreaking and highly controversial defeat by Barcelona at a sold out Stamford Bridge.We'll be back on Friday to bring you reaction to the visit of Spurs AND look ahead to Sunday's latest London derby against West Ham.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey, Simon Johnson & Jessy Parker HumphreysPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A horrible, horrible, horrible night...Two of The Athletic's finest - Dom Fifield and Simon Johnson - are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the hugely demoralising 5-0 thrashing by Arsenal at the Emirates on Tuesday night.Next up - another tricky away trip - this time to Villa Park to take on Unai Emery's Champions League chasing Aston Villa.There's some light at the end of the tunnel as Chelsea Women welcome Barcelona to Stamford Bridge with a slender 1-0 lead going into their semi-final second leg.Plus hot garden waste chat, Shaggy - and a quiz!We'll be back on Monday where we'll reflect on the trip to Aston Villa and hopefully be toasting a glorious UWCL victory for CFCW.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson & Dom FifieldPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva***• This is a paid ad from BetterHelp. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/COBHAM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They really, really, really, really, really don't like winning at Wembley...Matt Davies-Adams has got Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher along for the ride as we reflect on the latest cup disappointment following the narrow 1-0 defeat by Man City on Saturday. There's a mega full-time voice note from Liam and Simon Johnson live from the ground - before our more considered reflections and thoughts on where the Blues managed to fall just short once again...There's no time to dwell with a big trip to Arsenal on Tuesday night. We preview that game and ponder how Mauricio Pochettino will be able to get a tune out of the squad with a run of tricky fixtures to come before the end of this topsy turvy campaign.We repeat - thank goodness for CFCW! Jessy Parker Humphrey's sends us a dispatch after their glorious 1-0 UWCL semi-final first leg victory out in Barcelona.We'll be back on Thursday to look back on events at the Emirates and look ahead to the women's HUGE Champions League second leg at the Bridge and the trip to Villa Park in the Premier League.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher & Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Double trouble semi-final Saturday...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson to tease ahead to Saturday evening's FA Cup semi-final showdown with Manchester City at Wembley.We ponder whether now's the perfect time to play Pep's side after their dramatic UCL defeat by Real Madrid, how we see the team lining up - and the realistic chances of progressing to another final.There's also a potentially season defining semi-final for CFCW to look forward to - heading out to Barcelona on Saturday afternoon in the first leg of their Champions League tie. The Athletic's women's football writer Charlotte Harpur joins us to look back on the important 3-0 win over Aston Villa in the WSL on Wednesday night and how that sets things up for this unenviably tricky tie against the Spanish giants.There's our obligatory Thursday quiz - and a bonus bit of audio as we hear a snippet from Simon's interview with Chelsea loanee Alex Matos - currently plying his trade at Huddersfield and relishing the challenge of keeping Town in the Championship amid a feisty relegation battle.We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the weekend's SF showdowns AND look ahead to Tuesday night's trip to The Emirates...HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey & Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

He's quite good at football, isn't he?Matt Davies-Adams has got two of The Athletic's finest - Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher - alongside him to look back on Monday night's rout of Everton at Stamford Bridge in yet another Cole Palmer masterclass... which threatened to be overshadowed by hijinx of the penalty variety!Away from the game there was more chaos off the pitch as the club's latest financial accounts caused more than a few eyebrows to be raised... we try and get to the bottom of what it all means for the now and the future...It was a weekend to forget for CFCW and Emma Hayes - knocked out of the FA Cup after defeat by Manchester United leading to questions over the end of Emma Hayes' time at the helm. We check in with the Full Time Europe gang to get a better understanding of the mood around the team at the moment.We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to Saturday's FA Cup semi-final at Wembley against Manchester City - and the small matter of a Champions League semi-final first leg against Barcelona!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey, Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Money, money, money...The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to round up the latest Blues news and look ahead to Monday night's visit of Everton.We start with a deep dive into Liam's latest piece looking at the finer details of the £1 billion outlay of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital over the last three transfer windows. Was anyone worth the money that was paid for them?!There's an update on the acquisition of Stoll Mansions before taking a closer look at the Toffees showdown - which is *surely* must win if there's to be any hope of snatching a European spot.Plus, CFCW are back in action after the international break - travelling to Manchester to take on United in the semi-final of the FA Cup.We'll be back at the slightly later time of Tuesday to mop up all the fallout from the visit of Everton on Monday evening!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Dom Fifield, Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chelsea just don't want nice things, do they?Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Luke Bosher and Dom Fifield with a sense of serious déjà vu as the Blues conspired to draw 2-2 with yet another relegation threatened side on a sorry Sunday in Sheffield.We reflect on the result with the help of a full-time match report from Liam Twomey - and ponder whether it's an irretrievable situation for Mauricio Pochettino irrespective of potential FA Cup success or where they finish in the table this season.We'll be back with you on Thursday to look ahead to Monday night's visit of Everton - what could possibly go wrong!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Dom Fifield, Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

100:39... have you recovered yet, Blues fans?!Matt Davies-Adams is joined by two of The Athletic's finest - Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey - to try and recap the utterly bonkers last-gasp 4-3 victory over Manchester United.Next up - Chelsea make the trip to Bramall Lane to take on relegation fodder Sheffield United... so will Thursday night really prove to be a turning point?!!The last thing Liam and Luke needed after the drama of the night before was an MDA quiz...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on what's surely a must win game for Poch and co!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey, Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.