Straight Outta Cobham: The Athletic FC's Chelsea show

We'd forgotten what it felt like...Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on Chelsea's first victory since the 15th of January!! The 1-0 win over Leeds means the Blues sit 11 points behind fourth-placed Tottenham with a game in hand...We round up the match, take the positives and negatives from the performance and question whether the result will have appeased fans after some rumblings in the stands given the nature of the victory.Not such good news for the women's team - who were beaten 3-1 by Arsenal at Selhurst Park in the League Cup final. Jessy Parker Humphrey's sends us a match report after a disappointing afternoon for Emma Hayes' side.Then, it's all eyes on the UCL with Borussia Dortmund in town and Graham Potter's side needing to overturn a one-goal deficit if they're to progress to the last eight of the competition. We pick our starting XI for the second leg and look ahead to Tuesday's match.We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on the midweek Champions League action and look ahead to the trip to Leicester.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The season starts here...maybe...probably not...but maybe...Matt Davies-Adams has got Jessy Parker Humphreys and Simon Johnson alongside him to look ahead to Saturday's match with Leeds at Stamford Bridge.Chelsea Women go in search of their first silverware of the season when they face familiar foes Arsenal in Sunday's League Cup final. We preview that game - including some of the key team selection quandaries - and the importance of Emma Hayes' big game experience.We've got a word on the new fan advisory board, a scouting report from Monday's PL2 victory over Arsenal, and....a quiz!!We'll be back on Monday to reflect on a busy weekend of action - and look ahead to the season-defining second leg with Borussia Dortmund.Produced by Lucy Oliva.***This episode is brought to you by Betterhelp, Visit betterhelp.com/cobham today to get 10% off your first month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You know it's bad when you lose at Tottenham...Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams for our latest Chelsea pity party following the 2-0 defeat in North London. It's now just two wins in 15 Premier League games for Graham Potter's side - who sit closer to the relegation zone than Champions League places.We take your thoughts and questions, assess the performance and try and figure out what's next for this team...Some much needed relief was offered by Chelsea Women after their 2-0 FA Cup win over rivals Arsenal at Kingsmeadow - including yet another goal from Sam Kerr as she adds to her astonishing tally. Jessy Parker-Humphrey's sends us a match report from a *far* more enjoyable result!And as it's a legal requirement for Sam and Dom to lock horns in a quiz - we've got a bonus Monday edition to lift the spirits, which predictably descends into chaos...We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the visit of Leeds at Stamford Bridge - AND Sunday's Continental Cup final.Produced by Lucy Oliva.***This episode is brought to you by Betterhelp, Visit betterhelp.com/cobham today to get 10% off your first month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You just can't go losing this game...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Jessy Parker Humphreys and Liam Twomey to preview Sunday's trip to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to face fierce rivals Spurs.The Athletic's Tottenham writer Tim Spiers joins us to give some insight into the North Londoners, who look set to be without a certain Antonio Conte on the sidelines once again...There's a deep dive into some of the excellent pieces on the site at the moment including the current state of affairs at Cobham - and what the future holds for Mason Mount.We've got a look ahead to CFCW's return to action as they face Arsenal in the FA Cup on Sunday - plus we heap yet more praise on Lauren James after she starred once again for England as they retained the Arnold Clark Cup.We round things up with a quiz - and we'll be back on Monday to (HOPEFULLY (!!!!)) reflect on resounding wins for the men and women's teams.Produced by Lucy Oliva.***• Get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase at athleticgreens.com/cobham• Take advantage of MANSCAPED®’s best valued bundle and save 20% Off and Free Shipping with the code EPL23 at Manscaped.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just when you think it can't get any worse...Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams for our latest Chelsea-induced therapy session after the 1-0 defeat to bottom of the table, managerless Southampton at Stamford Bridge.We question why things are going quite so wrong, whether Graham Potter's future is in doubt, if the relationship with the fans can be salvaged - and what's next in SW6.We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to Sunday's trip to North London to take on Tottenham...Produced by Lucy Oliva.***• Get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase at athleticgreens.com/cobham• Take advantage of MANSCAPED®’s best valued bundle and save 20% Off and Free Shipping with the code EPL23 at Manscaped.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's still all to play for, right?Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Sam Parkin and Jessy Parker Humphreys to reflect on the 1-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie. There were positives to take - but the same old story of chance after chance after chance (!) yet no end product.There's an immediate gear change back to the Premier League as bottom of the table and managerless Southampton visit Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon. We look ahead to that game and ponder some of Graham Potter's selection headaches.Of course we've got the latest episode in the Jessy/ Sam quiz saga - and a brief word on the Blues news elsewhere with the CFCW not playing thanks to the international break.We'll be back on Monday to reflect on that match - and hopefully a much-needed win! - against Southampton.Produced by Lucy Oliva.***This episode is brought to you by Betterhelp, Visit betterhelp.com/cobham today to get 10% off your first month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Five wins in 16 Premier League matches under Graham Potter...Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on yet another frustrating afternoon for Chelsea, held to a 1-1 draw at West Ham despite dominating much of the game. We discuss *that* handball, Kai Havertz's struggles, and the pressure on the Blues boss to be more José...There's no time to rest- with the Champions League returning and the small matter of a trip to Borussia Dortmund in the Round of 16 First Leg on Wednesday night. We'll preview that game and give some potential starting XI's.We'll be back at the end of the week to look back on that game - and preview Saturday's meeting with bottom of the table Southampton at Stamford Bridge!Produced by Lucy Oliva.***This episode is brought to you by Betterhelp, Visit betterhelp.com/cobham today to get 10% off your first month.• Building a bet just got easier! Visit livescorebet.com to find out more about how to make your selections today! 18+ only Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hammer time upcoming...Jessy Parker-Humphreys and the returning Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to the trip to West Ham on Saturday. Who'll feature? Will we see the long-awaited return of James and Chilwell? Can the Blues get their first Premier League away win since October?!Then - a special treat - as we hear a little taste of Simon's interview with club captain César Azpilicueta, hot off the back of his 500th appearance for the club. Be sure to check out the full interview in The Athletic. Dave talks about his decision to stay amid interest from Barcelona, his job in imparting the CFC DNA into the new arrivals - and why we shouldn't write this season off just yet.There's a round up of the other Blues news - including a new contract for women's goalkeeper Zećira Mušović - plus a quiz between probably our two most decorated contestants...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the result at London Stadium - and look ahead to a trip to Dortmund!Produced by Lucy Oliva.***• Get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase at athleticgreens.com/cobham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So, money can't buy you goals...Sam Parkin and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the goalless draw between Chelsea and Fulham under the lights at Stamford Bridge. We've got a MEGA voice note from the game - plus some more considered thoughts on Havertz's role, what the priorities should be for the rest of the season, and the tactical battles they face going forward...Just prior to the game on Friday night we found out that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had been left out of the Champions League squad. We ponder what this means for his future at the club - and Graham Potter's authority. Plus with no room for Benoît Badiashile either - could they be left short at the back with Borussia Dortmund just around the corner?Elsewhere there was much better news for Chelsea Women, who's 3-2 win at Tottenham - alongside goalless draws for their two title rivals Manchester United and Arsenal - means they've opened up a gap at the top of the WSL table. Evidence once more that Lauren James is a *ridiculously* good footballer!We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the trip to West Ham.Produced by Lucy Oliva.***• Get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase at athleticgreens.com/cobham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

And breathe...Matt Davies-Adams has got Sam Parkin and Jessy Parker Humphreys along for the ride as the January transfer window *finally* slammed shut.Liam (and Ruby) send us a voice note (trying!) to sum up a bonkers deadline day for Chelsea Football Club - including a new British record transfer fee, a departing vice-captain and an administrative shambles..Away from the spending - the Blues have got a Premier League match to worry about - with Fulham making the trip to Stamford Bridge on Friday night! We look ahead to that game - and pick a potential, dream starting XI.There's a round up of the other Blues news - including Chelsea Women's WSL tie against Spurs on Sunday - and our customary Thursday quiz...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on that game.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Time for one last, big deal?The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams as the January transfer window reaches fever pitch...We round up the arrival of Malo Gusto, check in with the latest on Enzo Fernández - and have news of a promising youngster heading out on loan.The senior men may not have been in action - but it was bad news elsewhere with defeats in the FA Youth Cup and PL2 - with Simon in attendance at both! Not that we're suggesting there's a correlation (!)Better news for the women's team though - who booked their place in the last 16 of the FA Cup thanks to a 3-2 win over Liverpool - an a hat-trick for the inevitable Sam Kerr. Jessy Parker-Humphrey's sends us a match report - and news of an audacious transfer bid...We'll be back on Thursday to round up any last minute deadline day deals and look ahead to the return to Premier League action as a date with Fulham under the lights on Friday night awaits.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UEFA's feathers? Consider them ruffled...Simon Johnson and Jessy Parker Humphreys are in the hot seat alongside Matt Davies-Adams to round up the latest Blues news - on a rare weekend of no action for the men's side!We begin with some transfer chatter, including rules which appear to be ~inspired~ by Chelsea, a potential new deal for the ageless Thiago Silva - and the other rumours that continue to swirl regarding incomings and outgoings with just a few days of the window to go.Attention then turns to the women's team - after a comfortable 3-1 win over Tottenham to book their place in the semi-finals of the Continental Cup. The cup action continues with the visit of Liverpool in the FA Cup on Sunday...we look ahead to that game, which will hopefully go ahead in its entirety...Simon gives us an insight into his excellent piece with the development squad's head coach Mark Robinson - and the quiz gives us a chance to christen the new Darren Barnard of SOC...We'll be back on Monday on the eve of transfer deadline day to round up a busy weekend of action - for everyone but Graham Potter's team!Produced by Lucy Oliva.***• Get a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase at athleticgreens.com/cobham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All eyes on you, Mykhailo...Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the mid-table meeting between Liverpool and Chelsea - which rather predictably ended in a goalless draw! But - with the help of your questions and musings we pick out plenty of reasons to be positive about the point.We hoped to have a big win in the other showdown between these two clubs on the women's side - but a farcical postponement after just six minutes at the ice rink that was Kingsmeadow has caused much angst.There's time to check in on a couple of the latest transfers - including the confirmed arrival of the exciting 20-year-old winger Noni Madueke - and rumours of a potential departure for Mason Mount...No FA Cup fixture to look ahead to at the weekend for the men - but we'll be back on Thursday to hopefully preview the women's FA Cup tie with Liverpool - and any latest transfer news.Produced by Lucy Oliva.***• Get a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase at athleticgreens.com/cobham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Liverpool - Chelsea double header you say?Jessy Parker Humphreys and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to the meetings with the red half of Merseyside for both the men's and women's teams.We start with Graham Potter's side - who make the trip up to Anfield on Saturday lunchtime knowing a win would take them above their hosts. We question whether Mudryk will get the nod, if any injury doubts will be back in contention - and how the Blues can exploit the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold.Then, it's down to Kingsmeadow as Chelsea Women host Liverpool Women - hoping to avenge their shock opening day WSL defeat to Matt Beard's side.Oh - and don't forget the quiz...and spelling bee!!We'll be back on Monday to reflect on both of those results.Produced by Lucy Oliva.***This episode is brought to you by Betterhelp, Visit betterhelp.com/cobham today to get 10% off your first month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A win's a win...The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the narrow 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge.Perhaps the most exciting thing to happen SW6 was the unveiling of Mykhailo Mudryk at half-time - after an audacious swoop over the weekend to snatch him from the grasps of Arsenal. The Athletic's Adam Crafton has watched him closely at Shakhtar Donetsk and joins us to give the lowdown on the deal and what Chelsea fans can expect from the £89 million man...Elsewhere, the return of the WSL from the winter break saw the Blues pick up a precious point against title rivals Arsenal thanks to a last gasp goal from Sam Kerr in front of more than 46,000 fans at the Emirates. Jessy Parker Humphrey's sends us a match report on what could prove to be a decisive draw in the fight for the title.We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the Crisis Club Derby as Graham Potter's side make the trip to Anfield to take on Liverpool!Produced by Lucy Oliva.***This episode is brought to you by Betterhelp, Visit betterhelp.com/cobham today to get 10% off your first month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Winning football matches is overrated, right?Matt Davies-Adams has got Sam Parkin and Simon Johnson along for the ride to try and sum up the 2-1 defeat at Craven Cottage. The result leaves Graham Potter's side sitting 10th in the Premier League table - having won only twice in 10 matches in all competitions. There's shambolic defending, another injury - and a red card for what seemed like the only bright spark in weeks...Next up - Crystal Palace make the visit to Stamford Bridge - who themselves have won just one of their last six and sit three points behind Chelsea in the table. We preview that game and try and muster some positivity about the chances of picking up a desperately needed three points.Far more positivity for the women's team - who get their WSL campaign back underway this weekend with the small matter of a trip to the Emirates to take on fierce rivals Arsenal. Jessy Parker-Humphreys helps us look ahead.Plus we've got an obligatory quiz - with some tools downed along the way...We'll be back on Monday to *hopefully* bring some good news after another week to forget for CFC.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's been a 2023 to forget so far...Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams to pick the bones from the dismal 4-0 defeat at Manchester City in the third round of the FA Cup. We field some of your questions/ rants - and look at what the future could hold for this team under Graham Potter - and the direction of the club going forward.Away from the game - we touch on the latest transfer news - with the deals for David Datro Fofana, Benoît Badiashile and Andrey Santos all signed, sealed and delivered.Then - there's another Thursday night to look ahead to with a tricky trip to Fulham to...look forward to?!!We'll be back on Friday to reflect on that game down by the river - and preview the visit of Crystal Palace.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Chelsea legend gone too soon...Sam Parkin and Jessy Parker Humphreys join Matt Davies-Adams to pay their tributes to Gianluca Vialli - who has died at the age of 58. We get Sam's memories from Cobham, discuss his lasting legacy at the club and salute the man, the player, and the manager.Back on the pitch - we round up the 1-0 defeat to Manchester City - which despite Simon's downbeat voice note has got our panel taking the positives... apart from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang!There's not long to wait for another showdown with Pep's men - as the Blues make the trip up to the Etihad in the third round of the FA Cup.We take a quick look ahead to that game and do a quiz...We'll be back on Monday to round up that tie - and preview Thursday's trip to Fulham.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The positivity was fun while it lasted hey...Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the MDA derby as the spoils were shared between Nottingham Forest and Chelsea - and it was Graham Potter's side who were lucky to escape from the City Ground with a point.We've got the latest transfer news, rumours and potential ins and outs with the window now officially open. Are Chelsea really willing to break the bank for Enzo Fernández? Is David Datro Fofana going to slot straight in with the first team? Didn’t the spend nearly £80 million on a left-sided centre back already this season?!Then, we look ahead to the slightly ominous visit of Manchester City to Stamford Bridge on Thursday night.We'll be back on Friday to look back on that match and look ahead of Sunday's FA Cup tie...with Manchester City!Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've waited since the 16th of October...Matt Davies-Adams has got Dom Fifield and Jessy Parker-Humphreys in tow as Chelsea finally got back to winning ways in the Premier League thanks to a 2-0 victory over Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge.Mason Mount shines on his 150th start, there's promise from Kai Havertz - but another injury worry for Reece James dampens the mood on a rainy evening in SW6.Elsewhere, we touch upon the news that Bethany England could be leaving Chelsea Women for Tottenham - and round up the impressive victory over PSG in the Champions League.Next up for Graham Potter's side, a trip to the City Ground for the MDA Derby! We look ahead to that game on New Year's Day with the help of a little quizzing...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on that game and look ahead to the visit of Manchester City.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

And just like that, Chelsea are nearly back...Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson alongside him as the Blues prepare to get back to action in the Premier League following the World Cup break.We start with the sad news of Armando Broja's serious injury - and what it could mean for the club in terms of signings in the January transfer window - or the promotion of youth...After a look at what the impact of Qatar 2022 could be for the likes of Hakim Ziyech and Christian Pulisic - we preview the visit of Bournemouth on the 27th of December - a game which is looking like a potential banana skin.Plus - there's a round-up of home Chelsea Women have fared over the last month or so as they now enter their winter break, sitting pretty top of the WSL table.We'll be back on December 28th to wrap up that Bournemouth game - and look ahead to the MDA derby as Graham Potter's side head to Nottingham Forest on New Year's Day... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No, it's not just a motorway service station...Matt Davies-Adams has got the whole SOC family alongside him to round up all things Chelsea ahead of the (welcome) World Cup break.First up, Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey reflect on the 1-0 defeat at Newcastle - which sees the Blues sitting eighth in the Premier League table after a third straight league loss.Our mood is lifted with the help of Jessy Parker-Humphreys to round up what's been a hugely positive campaign so far for CFCW.Then Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin pop by to take a closer look at the World Cup and what it has in store for some of Graham Potter's side - before putting Matt and Producer Lucy to the test with a bumper quiz - with absolutely *no* helping hands given or stitch ups whatsoever...That's all from us for the break - we'll be back on December 28th to round up the visit of Bournemouth to Stamford Bridge in hopefully much happier times!Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

He was born in 2004...Fierce quizzing rivals Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on Chelsea's departure from the League Cup after the 2-0 defeat at Manchester City. But it's not all doom and gloom - as a Simon Johnson voice note live from the Etihad at the final whistle points out - with 18-year-old Lewis Hall playing a starring role and a generally improved performance from the losses to Brighton and Arsenal.The tough assignments continue with a trip to St. James' Park to take on a Newcastle United side flying high under Eddie Howe.There's a round up of the other Blues news elsewhere including an impressive win for the development squad, World Cup heartache for Reece James - and a UCL showdown with Dortmund to look forward to.And of course, Dom and Sam go head-to-head in a grudge match...We'll be back on Monday to round up the final game ahead of the extended international break - will the full cast of SOC along to help us round off a tumultuous 2022.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Well, that was pretty grim...The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the disastrous 1-0 defeat by Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.Thankfully Chelsea Women brought some joy to the weekend courtesy of a 3-1 win at Manchester United!Graham Potter's side could be in a world of pain *again* when they make the trip to the Etihad to face Manchester City in the League Cup. We predict our starting XI's and look ahead to the game.We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on that game, the Champions League round of 16 draw - and look ahead to the trip to Newcastle for the Blues' final game before the World Cup break.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the good comes the bad...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield to look back on the 2-1 win over Zagreb in the final Champions League Group game. There was a debut and goal to remember for Denis Zakaria, late injury heartbreak for Ben Chilwell and reasons for Graham Potter to be positive ahead of a big final week of domestic action.Next up for the Blues - table-toppers Arsenal make the short trip to Stamford Bridge on Sunday lunchtime. We look ahead to that game, weigh up the team news with the ongoing injury issues - and question whether Chelsea can still chase down the Gunners in this most unusual of seasons.There's a round up of the news elsewhere - including a crucial fixture for the Women's team at Manchester United on Sunday - and the usual quiz hijinx...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on another busy weekend of action - and look ahead to the midweek trip to Manchester City in the League Cup.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Halloween came early for CFC...Matt Davies-Adams has got Jessy Parker-Humphreys and Simon Johnson alongside him for a post-mortem following the shock 4-1 defeat at Brighton.We try to get to the bottom of where it all went wrong, why Raheem Sterling has looked so poor, and whether there's any reason to panic.It's Matchday 6 in the Champions League and a dead rubber against Matchday 1 foes Dinamo Zagreb. We pick our starting XI's and have everything crossed that no one gets injured!There's a look at CFCW's 3-1 win over Aston Villa, spotlight on the academy sides - and an unexpected look at the benefits of Ayurvedic rejuvenation therapy!We'll be back on Thursday to round up the final group game and look ahead to the visit of table-toppers Arsenal in the Premier League.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was never, ever in doubt...Jessy Parker-Humphrey's and Sam Parkin are with Matt Davies-Adams for your second weekly dose of SOC as Chelsea book their place in the last 16 of the Champions League AND top Group E after a 2-1 win at RB Salzburg.Next up for Graham Potter's side is a trip to his old stomping ground - and a meeting with Brighton at the Amex on Saturday afternoon.There's EIGHT goals for Chelsea Women in their WUCL tie against Vllaznia, a disappointing exit from the UEFA Youth League, a quiz - and a chance to hear from Callum Hudson-Odoi, doing great things on loan at Bayer Leverkusen.We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the game against the Seagulls - and look ahead to the final UCL group game with Dinamo Zagreb in town.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rumour has it Chelsea and Manchester United quite like draws?Matt Davies-Adams has got Jessy Parker-Humphreys and Sam Parkin alongside him to reflect on the seemingly inevitable 1-1 scoreline at Stamford Bridge. We've got a whole lotta love for Trevoh Chalobah, concerns about Raheem Sterling's form - and find out what it's like to be hooked before HT.It's Matchday Five in the Champions League as Graham Potter's side make the trip out to Austria to take on RB Salzburg - knowing a win will see they guaranteed a place in the last 16.Plus - there's plenty of WSL and UWCL action to round up - following the big win out in Paris last Thursday and crucial 2-0 victory over Brighton at a sodden Broadfield Stadium on Sunday evening.We'll be back on Thursday to look back on the UCL action - and preview Saturday's trip to Brighton in the Premier League.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not much sting in that one...The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the goalless draw with Brentford. There's bafflement over Kai Havertz, praise for the impact subs, and a word on Broja's first start - with no Sam in sight!We've then got eyes on events at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening - with Manchester United in town for an early top four battle, with the visitors just a point behind the Blues in the table. United expert Carl Anka drops by to give us the inside steer on Erik ten Hag's side.There's a round up of the Blues news elsewhere - including another injury blow for N'golo Kante, growing excitement around Omari Hutchinson - and a quiz to get you in the mood for Saturday's game - all as we celebrate our 200th episode of Straight Outta Cobham!Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a Kepa Arrizabalaga appreciation pod...Jessy Parker-Humphreys and Dom Fifield join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on a fifth straight win for Graham Potter's side courtesy of a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa. We chat Kepa heroics, the loss of Reece James and two long overdue goals for Mason Mount.There's a quick turnaround with a trip to Brentford on Wednesday night - we preview that game, question whether Chelsea would ever go for a player like Ivan Toney - and give some predictions of what to expect as the hectic October schedule rumbles on.Plus - we recap Chelsea Women's 3-1 win over Everton - and the news that Emma Hayes will be missing from the sidelines following emergency surgery.We'll be back on Thursday to give you the lowdown on the midweek trip to the Gtech Community Stadium - and look ahead to the visit of Manchester United...Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just a bit *too much* Big Fik Energy...Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin are in the hot seat alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the 2-0 win over AC Milan - as Graham Potter's men surged to the top of Group E after an eventful evening at the San Siro.The Blues are back in Premier League action on Sunday afternoon as they make the trip to Villa Park - we look ahead to that game - round up the news elsewhere...and quiz!We'll be back on Monday to look back on the Aston Villa game - and look ahead to the midweek trip to Brentford.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wolves... tamed.Liam Twomey and Jessy Parker Humphrey's are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the 3-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Stamford Bridge - as Graham Potter's side capped off a week with three straight wins in style. There's love for Diego, special praise for Azpi and Gallagher - and whether Kai Havertz is *finally* really hitting his stride.Next up - it's a trip to the San Siro as matchday four of the Champions League rolls around - and the Blues will be looking to get the better of AC Milan once again.There's a quick 'Elsewhere in Chelsea news' - and a word on what Athletic subscribers can enjoy...We'll be back on Thursday night to reflect on the trip to Italy - and look ahead to the trip to Aston Villa.Produced by Lucy Oliva. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A big step forward?Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the big 3-0 win over AC Milan at Stamford Bridge to reinvigorate the Blues' Champions League campaign. There's praise for Aubameyang and James, fingers crossed for Fofana - and whether this is a sign of a real turning point for the squad with a chaotic month of fixtures to come.Next up in the Premier League - Wolves and a certain Diego Costa are in town. We look ahead to that one, share some favourite Costa memories - and cap things off with a quiz...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on that game - and look ahead to the trip out to Italy to take on the Rossoneri at the San Siro. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's nothing quite like a last minute winner...The Athletic's Chelsea experts Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the dramatic 2-1 win over Crystal Palace - courtesy of a last-gasp screamer from Conor Gallagher.With the Premier League points in the bag - attention turns to the crucial visit of AC Milan in the Champions League - with three points looking vital if Graham Potter's side are to make it out of the group stages. Plus - a certain former player drops by to help us look ahead to Wednesday night!There's a brief look at the other Blues news - and a word on the rumoured agreement to bring Christopher Nkunku to Stamford Bridge next season...We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on that game - and look ahead to the meeting with Wolves on Saturday afternoon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Until the World Cup, international break...Sam Parkin and Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams as we gear up for the return of the men's domestic football.We begin with memories of Ramires and John Obi Mikel - who both announced their retirement from the game in midweek - with iconic goals, bags of appearances and plenty of medals between them.Chelsea Women made it two wins from three after a 3-1 victory over West Ham - Jessy Parker-Humphreys sends in their post-match thoughts before a break in domestic play for Emma Hayes' side.We've got a round up of how some of the Blues fared on international duty - before looking ahead to the Dom Derby as Graham Potter's side make the trip to Selhurst Park on Saturday afternoon in the long-awaited return to Premier League action.And a quiz on the Eagles would just be far to easy wouldn't it?!We'll be back on Monday to reflect on that match - and look ahead to the crucial visit of AC Milan in the Champions League. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's good genes, and then there's James genes...Jessy Parker-Humphreys and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on Chelsea Women's 2-0 win over Manchester City as they registered their first three points of the WSL season.As the international break rumbles on for the men's team - Matt opens his mailbag to take your questions - including priorities for Potter, players who might get more of a look in, and whether Thomas Tuchel could make an audacious swoop in as England boss...We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the Dom Derby as Chelsea make the trip to Crystal Palace as the Premier League returns! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You've (not) got a Freund in me...Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin in tow to mull over the latest Blues news.We begin with the ongoing search for a sporting director, with target Christoph Freund seemingly committing his future to RB Salzburg. There's the latest on the search to fill the role - plus the unpleasant business surrounding the sacking of commercial director Damian Willoughby.Chelsea Women are looking to get back on track after their shock defeat by Liverpool when they face Manchester City on Sunday in the WSL - we take a look at that game.Plus, Matt devises a fiendish five-round quiz to beat the international break blues...to varying degrees of success!We'll be back on Monday to round up the weekend's action and to take a look at how the men's international players have got on across the globe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not quite the start we were expecting...Jessy Parker Humphreys and Dom Fifiield join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the clash between Chelsea and Liverpool which *did* go ahead - as Emma Hayes' side were shocked courtesy of two penalties in the 2-1 defeat to begin their WSL campaign.The international break may now be underway - but there's plenty of other Blues news to round up including the rumoured impending arrival of a new sporting director - plus a behind doors friendly, an under 21's Dom Derby - and Conor Gallagher's 'demotion' from the senior England squad.We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to Chelsea v Manchester City in the WSL - and check in on any other headlines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not-so-all-star...The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the 1-1 draw with RB Salzburg in Graham Potter's first game in charge of the Blues. We chat team selection, xG and same old problems as the position in Group E looks increasingly precarious after picking up just one point from the opening two games.Todd Boehly's comments at the SALT conference have caused quite a stir - with discussion of a Premier League All-Star Game and feeder clubs catching the headlines.Plus - with no men's match to look forward to this weekend following the postponement of Sunday's visit of Liverpool - you'll have to settle for the quiz to keep you going...We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the belated start of the WSL season - plus a round up of the other Blues news as the international break kicks in. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Graham Stephen Potter...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin to take a closer look at the arrival of the new man at the helm at Stamford Bridge. The Athletic's Brighton expert Andy Naylor give us an insight to the man himself, his coaching staff - and what he'll bring to the club. Then, we highlight five key areas that will sit top of Potter's in tray as he gets his feet under the table. Plus, there's a look ahead to matchday two in the Champions League - with RB Salzburg in town on Wednesday evening as the Blues look to bounce back immediately from that shock defeat in Zagreb last week which saw Thomas Tuchel's time at the club come to an end.We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on that game. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Full title credit goes to Simon Johnson...The Athletic's Chelsea expert Simon and Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the sacking of Thomas Tuchel - and the arrival of Graham Potter.Recorded on Thursday morning - before the appointment was officially confirmed - we take a forensic look at how the Blues reached this point, why the decision was made to part company with Tuchel - and what made Potter the right man in the eyes of the new owners.Away from the big breaking news - there's the small matter of the start of the WSL season this weekend - with defending champs Chelsea looking to make it four straight titles. The Athletic's women's football writer Charlotte Harpur joins us to look ahead to the new campaign and what it has in store for Emma Hayes' side.We'll be back on Monday to reflect on Saturday's match with Fulham - look ahead to the visit of RB Salzburg, and discuss the new man at the helm at Stamford Bridge... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One normal day of Chelsea...Thomas Tuchel has been sacked by the Blues just a month into the new season. Join Mark Chapman, David Ornstein and Liam Twomey on an emergency episode of The Athletic Football Podcast as they discuss how the club came to the decision and where they might go next.The usual Straight Outta Cobham episode will be back later this week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Absolutely *nothing* to see here...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin to reflect on the incredibly controversial yet incredibly needed 2-1 win over West Ham and Stamford Bridge.We hail super subs Ben Chilwell and Kai Havertz, question another suspect and uninspiring performance - and give our verdict on *that* VAR decision.Then it's all eyes on the Champions League - with Thomas Tuchel's side making the trip to Croatia to face Dinamo Zagreb in matchday 1. Plus, a mega 'elsewhere in Chelsea news' segment touches on some big new contracts, more departures behind the scenes - and history-making siblings.We'll be back on Thursday to pick the bones from that game - and look ahead to Saturday's visit just down the road to Craven Cottage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

And just like that, the transfer window slams shut...Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin are in the hot seat alongside Matt Davies-Adams to rejoice as the summer transfer window FINALLY ends. We round up the last minute deals - including the arrival of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang - which had looked unlikely just a couple of days earlier. There's outgoings too - with bright prospect Billy Gilmour off to Brighton - plus plenty of loan moves to round off a recording breaking window for the Blues.We can't avoid discussing Tuesday night's 2-1 defeat at Southampton - with a classic Simon voice note from St Mary's, Thomas Tuchel questioning his side's metal and yet more misfiring up top. It's then straight onto the visit of West Ham on Saturday afternoon - as we question who'll be given their chance to make a mark in this match - and just how important the return of Reece James from illness will be.Plus - after last week's quizzing fiasco for Mr Parkin - how will he fare against formidable opposition this time round? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not to be outfoxed...Matt Davies-Adams has got all the latest Blues news covered with the help of Simon Johnson and Jessy Parker Humphreys.We begin with the hard-fought 2-1 win over Leicester - which saw Sterling get off the mark - and Gallagher get dismissed. The Premier League action keeps coming, with a look ahead to Tuesday night's trip to Southampton and some of the key selection questions coming into the 5th game of the season.Just days away from the transfer window slamming shut - we've got the latest on the last knockings in terms of ingoings and outgoings - plus the deals that now look like they *aren't* happening.There's a word on Chelsea Women's 2-0 pre-season win over Spurs - and a favourable Champions League draw for Thomas Tuchel's men.We'll be back on Friday to wrap up the summer deals, reflect on the trip to St Mary's and look ahead to the visit of West Ham... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the negotiating table to the pitch...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin to look ahead to the visit of Leicester City. We begin with a look at the Foxes - and the ongoing Wesley Fofana transfer saga - with the help of The Athletic's Leicester expert Rob Tanner. There's also talk of selection conundrums, the potential return of a key midfielder - and whether Thomas Tuchel will give his misfiring front three time...With under a week of the transfer window remaining - there's a round up of the latest gossip - including the motives behind bringing in Anthony Gordon and whether the Bundesliga is the right move for Callum Hudson-Odoi.Plus, our Thursday quiz sees one contestant driven to despair!We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the Leicester match, look ahead to the trip to Southampton - and react to the Champions League draw... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Back down to earth with a bang...Jessy Parker-Humphreys and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to unpick the nightmarish 3-0 defeat at Elland Road. We question Édouard Mendy's decision making, the struggles of some of the senior players - and why Chelsea's attackers seem incapable of scoring goals.Away from the doom and gloom of the match - there's an eye on the transfer window and what business could and should still be done with the countdown on to deadline day. Is the arrival of Fofana just a matter of time? Where will the likes of Ampadu and Gilmour end up? Is a loan move for Chalobah inevitable?!We take a look at the women's team who've been in action on their US tour - plus a mixed bag in terms of results for the men's development and under 18 sides.The gang will be back on Thursday to look ahead to the visit of Leicester City... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To Elland Road we go...Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to Chelsea's trip to Leeds on Sunday. The Athletic's Leeds writer Phil Hay pops along to give us the insight into Jesse Marsch's side and what the Blues can expect from their trip to Yorkshire.We've got the latest transfer chit chat handled - with a closer look at the potential deal to bring Anthony Gordon to Stamford Bridge - plus where Callum Hudson-Odoi may end up come the end of August.Plus - after the star-studded U21's were beaten comfortably by Fulham - there's reminiscing on appearances in the youth team gone by - and an interesting quiz with a Leeds flavour... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The handshake that shook the world...Matt Davies-Adams has Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin alongside him to *try* and sum up the fiery, feisty and controversy-filled 2-2 draw with Tottenham at Stamford Bridge. There's an examination of the officiating, praise for the extraordinary Reece James - and a look at what Chelsea could and should have done (within their control) to take all three points.We have a round up of some of the lingering transfer news - with emerging links to Anthony Gordon and the ongoing pursuit of Wesley Fofana. Plus, we discuss the news that Michael Edwards has reportedly removed himself from the running to become the club's new sporting director.We'll be back on Wednesday to look ahead to the trip to Elland Road. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will the unbeaten streak continue...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey and Jessy Parker Humphreys with the visit of rivals Tottenham just around the corner. The Athletic's Spurs correspondent Charlie Eccleshare drops in to let us know what we can expect from Antonio Conte's side after their flying start to the new season.But we begin with a transfer round-up - with plenty of movement since we last spoke including the confirmed departure of Timo Werner, loan moves for the likes of Malang Sarr, what the future holds for Billy Gilmour - and the ongoing pursuit of Wesley Fofana.Plus, we salute Mark Robinson's development squad who put SEVEN past Wolves in their first game of the campaign - and the SOC crew warm up for Sunday's festivities with a Tottenham-themed quiz... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.