The Game

On the eve of perhaps the biggest England game ever in women’s football, Natalie Sawyer is joined by Molly Hudson, Rebecca Myers and Tottenham goalkeeper Chloe Morgan as excitement continues to build.The Lionesses take on the best team in the world, the USA, in the semi-final of the World Cup. For manager Phil Neville, 18 months comes down to one game. Will the World Cup be a failure for Neville if England suffer semi-final defeat? Are England’s backline set for their biggest test yet? And will White strike again?The woman making all the headlines on and off the pitch in France is American co-captain Megan Rapinoe. Activist and athlete, what has the publicity she’s garnered done for the tournament and the women’s game? And will the fitness of the Americans pay dividends in the extreme heat of Lyon?There’s another semi-final to be played as well. Can Sweden upset the odds again and reach the final? Or will the Netherlands get the chance to add the World Cup to their European Championship?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Phil Neville said post-match that Lucy Bronze "has got to win the Ballon d'Or" after her man-of-the-match performance against Norway to send England into the semi-finals. Bronze set up England's first goal and sealed the 3-0 victory with a stunning strike from range, but does she deserve to be recognised as the best women's player in the world?Natalie Sawyer is joined on the podcast by the West Ham United and former England defender Claire Rafferty, plus The Times and Sunday Times journalists Molly Hudson and Rebecca Myers from Le Havre to discuss Bronze's standing in the game and England's best performance of the tournament so far. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the face of flying elbows, spitting, violent tackles and two threats to walk off the pitch, England defeated Cameroon to reach the knockout stages. Natalie Saywer is joined by former England, Chelsea and West Ham defender Claire Rafferty and Times chief sports writer Matt Dickinson to analyse one of the most remarkable matches of any World Cup. Should we feel sympathy for Cameroon? Should the referee have taken a stronger stand? And has it really damaged the image of the women’s game? Plus The Times and Sunday Times journalists Molly Hudson and Rebecca Myers join us from France to analyse England’s performance, quarter-final opponents Norway and Marta’s legacy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With three wins from three England have qualified for the knockout stages in style – but who will Phil Neville pick next?Natalie Sawyer is joined by former England, Chelsea and West Ham defender Claire Rafferty and from The Times and Sunday Times journalists Molly Hudson and Rebecca Myers to analyse England’s best XI. Neville has made 12 changes since the opening win over Scotland and says he will continue to rotate – but who should he be picking and does chopping and changing help or hinder motivation? Elsewhere, Scotland crashed out after throwing away a three-goal lead and suffering one of the cruellest refereeing decisions of the tournament – we debate whether VAR has gone too far? And as interest in the World Cup increases, why are so few people buy tickets for matches? Our guests explain what the atmosphere is really like in France. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the age of 14, Fran Kirby had to deal with the sudden and devastating death of her mother. The next day she went back to school, carrying on her life as normal until grief and depression hit her hard, leading her to give up football, the game she loved.This summer Kirby, now 25, is England’s leading creative force at a World Cup they hope to win and has earned the nickname “Mini Messi”.In this episode of the new in-depth podcast, LifeTimes, England’s leading women’s footballer tells Matt Dickinson how she overcame a shattering loss to rebuild her life and her career. Make sure you subscribe so that you never miss an episode, including the opening show with Paul Pogba.  This episode is hosted by The Times Chief Sports Writer Matt Dickinson and produced by Lucy Lavery, it is a Times Sport production, to discover more of our award winning journalism visit www.thetimes.co.uk/sport Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are into the final round of group games in France and England have already qualified for the knockout stages. Natalie Sawyer is joined by former England, Chelsea and West Ham defender Claire Rafferty and Sunday Times journalist Rebecca Myers to analyse a crucial round of games. England may be through but we explain why it will make a big difference if they avoid defeat against Japan. Plus, should Jodie Taylor retain her place in attack and what made the win over Argentina such an emotional moment for Fran Kirby and Carly Telford? The US overcame one of the best goalkeeping performances in recent times from Chile’s Christiane Endler and Claire gives us the inside line on her former Chelsea team-mate, while we celebrate one of the most heartwarming consolation goals ever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s been a memorable few days at the Women’s World Cup in France. Natalie Sawyer digests it in the company of Molly Hudson, Rebecca Myers and Tottenham goalkeeper Chloe Morgan. The fall-out from the USA’s 13-0 victory over Thailand continues. Were the Americans disrespectful in their failure to ease off? Did they celebrate too much? And with Chelsea manager Emma Hayes writing in The Times about the plight of Thailand’s 5ft 5in goalkeeper, should the goals be smaller in women’s football? The hosts continue to win, seeing off Norway 2-1 thanks to a controversial penalty awarded by VAR. Will the debate over technology rumble on throughout the tournament? And with Phil Neville perhaps set to rotate for England’s second group game, is there a danger that the Lionesses are about to underestimate Argentina? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The biggest World Cup in the history of women’s football is well underway, with the action in France already having a significant impact back in the UK. Natalie Sawyer is joined by two people who have been integral to the development of the women’s game in this country. Former England captain with 90 caps for her country, Faye White. And the FA director for the women’s professional game Kelly Simmons. We discuss the potential influence France 2019 can have, how the sport has progressed to a more professional model and the training schemes and initiatives that are encouraging young girls to pursue football as a profession. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this new podcast series, LifeTimes, our leading writers have stepped away from the heat of the action to speak in-depth to some of the most famous athletes on the planet - starting in episode one with footballer Paul Pogba. The France World Cup-winner and £89 million Manchester United midfielder sits down at the Bulgari Hotel in Milan to discuss everything from his on-pitch achievements and the importance of his faith to the criticism he receives over his body language and choice of haircuts. Make sure you subscribe so that you never miss an episode.This episode is hosted by The Times Chief Sports Writer Matt Dickinson and produced by Lucy Lavery, it is a Times Sport production, to discover more of our award winning journalism visit www.thetimes.co.uk/sportSearch LifeTimes on your favourite podcast app and make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on the next five episodes with sports biggest stars coming soon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

France 2019 is in full swing and Natalie Sawyer is joined by Molly Hudson, Rebecca Myers and former Lioness Claire Rafferty to pore over the opening weekend’s action.England edge past Scotland in front of a record TV audience. How significant is that for the women’s game? Phil Neville’s team are given a helping hand by VAR. What repercussions will the new handball rule have on training? Plus why Neville’s unhappiness is a good thing and the story behind that waistcoat.The tournament’s proving to be big in the UK but how big is it in France? The hosts are in imperious form thanks to the competition’s tallest player. Will Norway stand in their way?Also, can the Germans be got at and are the Brazilians just too old? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the World Cup kicking off on Friday, Natalie Sawyer is joined by former England star Claire Rafferty, as well as Molly Hudson, Rebecca Myers and Matt Dickinson from the Times to preview arguably the most high-profile tournament in the history of women’s football. It almost came home last summer but will it finally be coming home for England? Can Phil Neville lead the Lionesses to glory? And what impact will the World Cup have on future generations? Will the harshest critics of the women’s game take the tournament to their heart? If it’s not to be England, who are the teams and players to watch? Can six-time World Player of the Year Marta finally lift the game’s richest prize? Will it be a World Cup double for the French? The Game will bring you podcasts twice a week throughout the tournament, featuring some of The Times’ finest writers out in France. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For those suffering Gab Marcotti withdrawal symptoms, we have a treat for you. And indeed a treat for Gab, as he sits down for a chat with one of his favourite writers, the northern sports correspondent for The Times – George Caulkin. Gab and George discuss how press coverage of football has changed, the significance of football in the North East and of course, the current disconnect between fans and club at Newcastle United. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the last ever Game podcast for one Gabriele Marcotti. And there are plenty lining up to pay tribute to the man who has made this podcast his own. On the agenda this week, the Champions League final as Liverpool lift their 6th European Cup after a 2-0 victory over Tottenham. They showed nous and it may have been Alisson’s 27th clean sheet of the season but did the Reds even defend that well? From the Spurs side of things, it was a case of what might have been. Was Mauricio Pochettino right to start Harry Kane? Did Poch have enough up his sleeve tactically? And where next for Tottenham’s in-demand manager? The Europa League trophy was lifted by Chelsea in Baku last week. But will it prove to be Maurizio Sarri’s last act as manager at Stamford Bridge? And with the Nations League finals just around the corner, we ask just how seriously should Gareth Southgate and England be taking this trophy? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti and Natalie Sawyer bring you a special bumper look ahead to the Champions League final and Europa League final, in the company of Oli Kay, Paul Joyce, Gregor Robertson and James Gheerbrant.Liverpool and Tottenham get ready to do battle in the biggest club game in European football on Saturday night. Will Firmino and Kane make it for Madrid? How can Tottenham stop the Reds’ rampaging full-backs? And would Mauricio Pochettino leave Spurs on the highest of highs if he was victorious on Saturday?The first final featuring all-English clubs is on Wednesday night. Oli is among those boarding several flights to Baku, as controversy continues to reign around the Europa League final venue. We discuss the absence of Arsenal’s Henrikh Mkhitaryan and the future of Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri.Plus we debate whether Petr Cech’s reported summer move to a directorial role at Chelsea represents such a conflict of interests that he should not be picked in goal for the Gunners. And what will be Mesut Ozil’s legacy? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer introduces a special one hour documentary from talkSPORT looking back at Manchester United's amazing treble winning season. You'll hear how;- The United board wondered if Fergie had taken his eye off the ball- Martin Edwards asked Fergie to cut short his holiday and return for talks- the players placed demands on their coaches.Featuring Teddy Sheringham, Andy Cole, Steve McClaren and Martin Edwards. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti and Natalie Sawyer are joined by Matt Dickinson and Alan Smith after a historic weekend in English football. Manchester City equal the biggest FA Cup final win ever with a 6-0 victory over Watford at Wembley, becoming the first English men’s team to complete the domestic treble. But Pep Guardiola is forced to answer some difficult questions about finances while certain fans feel City aren’t getting the credit they deserve. Will City ever truly be embraced, even with the wonderful football they play? On the pitch, we discuss Vincent Kompany’s legacy at City after his decision to become player-manager at Anderlecht and the role of City assistant Mikel Arteta, a pivotal figure as revealed by Paul Hirst’s behind the scenes story of the season in The Times.Gareth Bale appears to have played his last game for Real Madrid after failing to acknowledge the fans after the final match of the season. Who could possibly afford him? Is the narrative of Bale being mistreated a bit wide of the mark? Does Bale need to act like Arjen Robben? And there are managerial movers in the form of Allegri, Potter and Pulis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Less football but no fewer football talking points for Gab Marcotti, Natalie Sawyer, Oli Kay and Bill Edgar to pore over. Manchester City look to complete the domestic treble with an FA Cup final win as we examine the historical significance of that feat. Are they the greatest team we’ve ever seen. Or are Watford, and manager Javi Gracia, better equipped to upset City than many think? Both Guardiola and Gracia will be joined in the Premier League by another up and coming English manager in the form of Dean Smith or Frank Lampard. Aston Villa play Derby in the Championship play-off final. What do the panel make of Lampard’s first season in management? And with Antoine Griezmann announcing he is leaving Atletico Madrid this summer, possibly for the Nou Camp, what are the knock-on effects for Premier League clubs in terms of players Barcelona would have to let go? Does it accelerate Eden Hazard’s departure from Stamford Bridge? Or Wilfried Zaha from Selhurst Park? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The most relentless title race in Premier League history is over. Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by Paul Hirst and James Gheerbrant to determine where the trophy was won. Manchester City become the first team in a decade to retain the Premier League title, sealing the championship on the final day. Have Liverpool done well to keep the gap to just a point? Do Liverpool have a more limited squad than City? Do City create more chances? And for Jurgen Klopp, how do you possibly improve on a 97-point season?We discuss the sacking of Chris Hughton as Brighton manager, where James proves himself to be as merciless as Tony Bloom. Will a more progressive manager get the best out of Brighton’s buys? There’s a bumper quick hits on every other Premier League club. We’re expecting big things for Bournemouth and Wolves if they have a good summer. Plus there’s seagulls and grasshoppers in their underwear. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are lucky to be joined in the studio by Alan Smith, and down the line Henry Winter gives his take on past performances and the big challenges to come with the final day of the premier league season approaching.A night to remember for Spurs with the comeback of all comebacks, making an all English Champions League final! What a weekend it promises to be: the final chapter in a title race that has driven Manchester City and Liverpool on to an extraordinary test of their abilities and nerve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A big weekend in the Premier League and a big week to come in the Champions League. Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by Alyson Rudd and Oli Kay to discuss it all. Arsenal’s top 4 hopes are over after drawing at home to Brighton. How big a rebuild do Unai Emery and the Arsenal hierarchy have on their hands? The Gunners do have the second chance of a potential Europa League final on their hands. But Manchester United definitely won’t be in the Champions League next season after drawing at Huddersfield. Who needs to be held accountable? Solskjaer or the players? We look ahead to the Champions League semi-finals. Do Liverpool have any chance of overturning a 3-0 deficit against Barcelona, especially without Salah and Firmino? And can Tottenham grab their once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reach the final or will they implode as they did at Bournemouth on Saturday? Plus George Elek from the Not The Top 20 podcast joins us to discuss the impending play-offs in the Championship. It’s Bielsa versus Lampard but can Grealish lead Villa to the promised land of the Premier League? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After an enthralling midweek of Champions League semi-finals, Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by Henry Winter, George Caulkin and Bill Edgar to break it all down.Liverpool play well and lose 3-0 at the Nou Camp, as Barcelona are inspired by Messi magic, inspiring Bill to get lost in Messi stats. How will we judge this Liverpool season if they end up without a trophy?Standing in their way in the Premier League title race this Saturday is their old manager Rafa Benitez. To what extent will he feel conflicted? And will this be Benitez’s last home game in charge of Newcastle?The other Champions League semi-final saw Spurs undone by Ajax in North London. But the major talking point surrounded the treatment of Jan Vertonghen’s concussion. With Mauricio Pochettino insisting they followed the protocol, is the protocol right and how should it be changed? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by James Gheerbrant and Paul Hirst after a weekend of unique talking points in the world of football. Manchester City clear another hurdle in the title race. With Pep Guardiola’s men now having taken 192 points in almost 2 seasons in the Premier League, can we expect this trend to continue. And is Burnley’s style of play inhibiting Sean Dyche’s chances of employment at a bigger club? Natalie was at Leeds to witness extraordinary scenes at Elland Road in the Championship. Leeds score with Villa having stopped playing, then allow Villa to score an equaliser. What happened? Why did it happen? Did Marcelo Bielsa do the right thing? And would he have done it if it wasn’t for Spygate? Plus we look ahead to the Champions League semi-finals? Can Tottenham patch together a team capable of beating Ajax? And are we underestimating the chances of Barcelona’s defence up against Liverpool’s attack? Elsewhere there are meltdowns for PSG and Dortmund, as we try to get Wilder. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by Oli Kay and Alan Smith after a big midweek in the Premier League. Manchester City played their game in hand at Old Trafford and ran out 2-0 winners in the Manchester derby. Was that their biggest hurdle to clear in the title race? Or will Burnley and their anti-football provide sterner opposition? Paul Pogba is named in the PFA Team of the Year which has incensed many. Do players take the nominations seriously enough or do they just look for different values? Arsenal suffer back to back defeats and continue to have problems in defence but do they have problems in attack on the horizon? And is the race for 4th place something to be excited about? Or is it the battle of mediocre teams in transition? Charlie Scott and Paddy von Behr provide advice ahead of the fantasy football weekend. For free Fantasy Premier League tips from The Sweeper, visit thetimes.co.uk/fantasyfootball  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer is joined by Alan Smith, Gary Jacob and Paul Hirst after a seismic Easter weekend.Manchester United are embarrassed and humiliated, losing 4-0 to Everton at Goodison Park. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wasn’t sure if all of his players care enough. We discuss who he might be talking about and look ahead to the Manchester derby on Wednesday. Will United respond, damaging City’s title hopes, helping Liverpool in the process? The race for the top 4 seems to be a race nobody wants to win, as Arsenal and Tottenham also lose. The panel try to decide who will qualify for the Champions League and who needs it the most? Elsewhere, where will Wilfried Zaha be next season? And will Brighton have enough to survive? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was a momentous midweek of Champions League football. Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by Paul Hirst and Alan Smith to pore through it all.Tottenham reach their first ever Champions League semi-final, after progressing past Manchester City on away goals in one of the craziest games in the history of football.How will this affect the Premier League title race? Did VAR make the right decisions? And now that Mauricio Pochettino has scaled new heights, can he outcoach Ajax’s Erik ten Hag?No such drama in Barcelona where Messi and co make light work of Manchester United. With Solskjaer speaking of a summer overhaul, we discuss the future of David De Gea and their trip to Goodison Park on Sunday.Cardiff breathed new life with into their Premier League survival hopes with victory at Brighton. What is going wrong at the Amex?Charlie Scott provides advice ahead of the fantasy football weekend. For free Fantasy Premier League tips from The Sweeper, visit thetimes.co.uk/fantasyfootball  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by Matt Dickinson and Bill Edgar after another Premier League weekend where the top two were victorious.We look at the run-ins of Liverpool and Manchester City for any potential slip-ups. Will Rafa Benitez have something to say about the destination of the title?With City and Liverpool continuing to rack up the points, is this title race good for the Premier League or does it show the disparity between the haves and the have-nots?Ahead of the Champions League quarter-final second legs, we try to second-guess Pep and to make any kind of argument for a Manchester United victory in Barcelona.And elsewhere this weekend, is Hasenhuttl heading for greater things? Plus Andre Gomes – handsome but horrible. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by Oli Kay and special guest, Belgian football journalist Kristof Terreur.Liverpool host Chelsea and the ghosts of their last title race with Manchester City and the damage that Blues did to them 5 years ago. How different is this Liverpool team? How much damage will Eden Hazard do to the Reds and will he be at Stamford Bridge next season?It was a bad week in the Champions League for the Manchester clubs? Despite the phenomenal efforts of Scott McTominay, United lose to Barcelona. Did Solskjaer get it wrong? And did United get it wrong in appointing him?And as we predicted on Monday, Pep Guardiola overthought things and tinkered in the defeat at Spurs. Time to ask why and to have that VAR debate again.Charlie Scott and Paddy von Behr provide their advice ahead of the fantasy football weekend. For free Fantasy Premier League tips from The Sweeper, visit thetimes.co.uk/fantasyfootball Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer is back alongside Gab Marcotti, James Gheerbrant and Alan Smith after an epic semi-final and ahead of some intriguing quarter-finals. As Tottenham get ready to host Manchester City in the Champions League, will Poch and Pep throw each other some tactical curveballs? And is Pep about to be too clever for his own good again? Liverpool face Porto while Ajax take on Juventus. It’s Manchester United against Barcelona in the other quarter-final but should we expect a cagey affair at Old Trafford? Watford come from 2-0 down to win a classic FA Cup semi-final against Wolves. We discuss the job Javi Gracia has done, the Troy Deeney fairytale and the issues with masked celebrations. Arsenal boggle the mind with a dreadful performance and defeat at Everton. What does this mean in the race for the top 4? And are things starting to click on Merseyside for Marco Silva? Plus Lincoln, Palace penalties and the Howe-Dyche continuum.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti is joined by Henry Winter, Alyson Rudd and Alan Smith to wade through some big issues and talking points in the world of football. Manchester City’s quadruple hopes look stronger than ever as they return to the top of the Premier League. What is Pep Guardiola doing for the club’s image on the world stage? Plus the panel get stuck into the Raheem Sterling-Leonardo Bonucci-Moise Kean racism debate. After condemnation of Cardiff manager Neil Warnock’s criticism of Premier League referees, behind the bluster, we ask whether Warnock has a point about officiating standards. Henry and Alyson have been to the newly opened Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, which Henry calls the best stadium in the country. How essential is it for Tottenham to be playing Champions League football in their new home? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a Sunday full of drama and controversy, Gab Marcotti is joined by Paul Joyce, James Gheerbrant and Bill Edgar to discuss the major talking points in the Premier League. Liverpool return to the top of the table with a last-gasp victory over Spurs at Anfield. How much of a role is luck playing in this title race? Could the defining moment of Liverpool’s season not involve Lloris and Alderweireld but in fact Van Dijk and Sissoko? And what about Tottenham, who are finding different ways to lose… Speaking of luck, is Solskjaer riding his at Old Trafford, after Manchester United survive a Watford onslaught to win at Old Trafford? And after Cardiff’s defeat to Chelsea, is Neil Warnock right to bemoan Premier League officials as the worst in the world? Maurizio Sarri shoots himself in the foot with the media again – but is he actually a fan of Callum Hudson-Odoi? Plus Siewert, Sunderland and the battle for the Bundesliga. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Premier League football is back, as are Gab Marcotti, Alyson Rudd, James Gheerbrant and Paul Joyce for The Game podcast. And the big breaking news on Thursday morning is that Manchester United appoint Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as their permanent manager on a 3 year contract as Ed Woodward votes for Sunday roast. Is he the right appointment? Is this the right time? Can he be his own man?Liverpool take on Tottenham on Sunday as the title race resumes. How will the Reds handle the pressure? And is Mo Salah about to burst back into form? Earlier that day, Cardiff host Chelsea. The panel tackle the issue of Cardiff’s dispute with Nantes and refusal to pay instalments of the transfer fee for the late Emiliano Sala. Charlie Scott and Paddy von Behr provide advice ahead of the fantasy football weekend. For free Fantasy Premier League tips from The Sweeper, visit thetimes.co.uk/fantasyfootball  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a special episode, Gab Marcotti welcomes back Rory Smith to The Game podcast, as they pore through some of the biggest issues in football today. While Manchester United look to be filling their managerial vacancy with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, are they in danger of neglecting their structural failings as a club? VAR will be in the Premier League next season but is it battling against a narrative of heroes and villains, the laws of the game and an attitude towards officials that is too demanding?Is the European Super League an inevitability? Or will smaller cross-border leagues from around the continent become a reality sooner? And with Raheem Sterling again on the receiving end in Montenegro, what measures are appropriate to combat racist behaviour in the stands? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by Bill Edgar and George Caulkin to discuss the start of the Euro 2020 qualifiers.England face the Czech Republic on Friday night as they get their campaign underway, but where does newly qualified Declan Rice fit into Gareth Southgate's setup? What will Southgate's setup be? And how did Callum Hudson-Odoi get into the squad despite not starting a league match ever?As we grapple with those questions, Newcastle constantly grapple with Rafa Benitez, but how did Rafa get his latest bout of RSI? It's more entertaining than it sounds, promise!Plus we discuss Messi and Ronaldo, just how do they keep on going after 30 when everyone else couldn't?And as ever on a Thursday, we have Bill Edgar's teaser Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by Alyson Rudd and Paul Hirst to dissect club football before the last international break of the season. Wolves knock out Manchester United to progress to the FA Cup semi-finals. How does Nuno do it? Can we call it a shock? Do United need this break more than anyone? And have neighbours City been getting the luck of the draw this season? Liverpool are back on top of the Premier League. Did the win at Fulham show that the Reds are nervous or that they have nerves of steel? We debate whether 48 teams is right for the World Cup. And if so, is it right for Qatar, a nation with a smaller population than East Anglia, who arguably needed a co-host to begin with? Plus Preston, Messi and a seething Siewert. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With 4 English teams making it through to the last 8 of the Champions League, Gab Marcotti, Natalie Sawyer, James Gheerbrant and Oli Kay run the rule over the contenders for Europe’s top title. After Liverpool’s comfortable win in Munich, there’s praise for the maturity of the Reds as well as the Mane man who has kept them on track in the last few months. We can’t rule out Barca or Juve but could Man City become dependent on Phil Foden before they know it? We look ahead to a tantalising tie at Molineux as Manchester United come to town in the FA Cup quarter-finals. Can Wolves upset the big boys again and win their first FA Cup since 1960? And with Eric Dier tweeting out his view on the Brexit debate, we discuss the rarity that is footballers expressing a political opinion and the possible implications of that. Charlie Scott provides advice ahead of a depleted fantasy football weekend. For free Fantasy Premier League tips from The Sweeper, visit thetimes.co.uk/fantasyfootball  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s been a weekend of incomprehensible refereeing decisions and inexcusable fan behaviour. Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by Matt Dickinson and Alan Smith to analyse it all. After individual pitch invaders at Hibernian, Arsenal and most shockingly Birmingham where Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish is punched, the panel discuss what can be done to better ensure player safety, as well as the perils of punishing clubs for the actions of individuals. Arsenal beat Manchester United to leapfrog them into 4th place. What are the chances of Champions League qualification for the Gunners? And should more people be dissing David De Gea for his role in the first goal? It’s as you were in the title race. Would Champions League progression against Bayern be a good or bad thing for Liverpool’s hopes of winning the Premier League? And how important is Raheem Sterling to Manchester City? Plus Darren Moore, equal pay in the USA and after a bad weekend for the officials, who is the Huddersfield of referees? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following a monumental week in Europe, Gab Marcotti and Natalie Sawyer are joined by Henry Winter and Alan Smith to examine the fall-out from a shocking Tuesday and Wednesday.Manchester United overcome a two-goal deficit with the help of VAR on a famous night in Paris and are through to the last eight of the Champions League. There’s praise for Solskjaer, Smalling and Rashford (are English players good at penalties now?). But as for PSG, did they bottle it? Or are they the victims of karma?The holders Real Madrid were eliminated spectacularly by a young vibrant Ajax. Was Real’s downfall down to ageing and arrogance? Plus we discuss Gareth Bale’s struggles in front of the most demanding fans in the world.And in a landmark week for England’s women with victory in the SheBelieves Cup, Molly Hudson discusses the potential impact of Phil Neville’s first silverware as a manager in a World Cup year.Charlie Scott and Paddy von Behr provide advice ahead of the fantasy football weekend. For free Fantasy Premier League tips from The Sweeper, visit thetimes.co.uk/fantasyfootball  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a derbylicious weekend, Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are in the company of Alyson Rudd, Matthew Syed and Paul Joyce with plenty to discuss. Liverpool are held by Everton and lose the leadership of the Premier League. Is the pressure building on Jurgen Klopp and his players or are they suffering from a lack of depth? The North London derby was packed full of incident but also ended all square. Find out which Tottenham player is NOT a horse, as we ask has the return of Kane stopped Son from shining? Alyson watched a man of the match display from the villainous Kepa for Chelsea at Craven Cottage and we appraise the start of the Scott Parker era at Fulham. Also on the agenda - will VAR rid football of controversy? Is there any room for a chess radio phone-in? And what are Stockport County up to these days? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a full midweek fixture list, Gab Marcotti, Natalie Sawyer and Gary Jacob look ahead to a weekend packed full of derbies. Chelsea sweep aside Spurs despite the controversy surrounding the many statements of Kepa. Is Harry Kane’s frustration at Stamford Bridge, coupled with Mauricio Pochettino’s frustration at Turf Moor, indicative of a larger frustration? Arsenal are next in the North London derby. The Gunners are in form but is Unai Emery in emergency mode? Then follows the Merseyside derby on Sunday as we make the case for Alexander-Arnold and Robertson being the best pair of full-backs in the league. And how long do we give Marco Silva before we judge the job he’s doing at Everton? Brendan Rodgers leaves Celtic for Leicester but should he have been allowed to? Plus in a move we saw coming, Fulham part company with Claudio Ranieri, after he fails to make a good defence. Charlie Scott and Paddy von Behr provide advice ahead of the fantasy football weekend. For free Fantasy Premier League tips from The Sweeper, visit thetimes.co.uk/fantasyfootball  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a huge Sunday of football happenings, Gab Marcotti and Natalie Sawyer are joined by Alyson Rudd and Paul Hirst to try and make sense of it all. Where else to start but with the Arrizabalaga saga? Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri tries to substitute his keeper Kepa in the League Cup final, who then refuses to come off. Was he disrespecting his manager? Would it have been a tactical masterstroke if Sarri had brought on former City goalkeeper Willy Caballero? And to what extent does this demonstrate the chaos at Chelsea? Manchester City were winners of the trophy. Is the quadruple on for Pep Guardiola this season? Or will the number of games catch up with an injury hit squad? A limp Liverpool display does see them return to the top of the Premier League as they draw 0-0 at Old Trafford. But will Jurgen Klopp be stressed about Salah, after another uninspiring performance from his star man? Claude Puel was dismissed as Leicester manager on Sunday morning. The rumoured replacement is one Brendan Rodgers. Is it right that he’s a figure of ridicule or is he misunderstood? Elsewhere, why Barcelona are more Messi-dependent than ever before. And Chicharito steals a tiara. Figuratively speaking. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti and Natalie Sawyer are joined by Oli Kay, Bill Edgar and George Caulkin ahead of a huge weekend of football. Liverpool travel to Old Trafford to face bitter rivals Manchester United who are seeking to dent their title bid. But should Liverpool be worried about their fabled front three looking a bit off colour?Manchester City then look to retain the Carabao Cup against Chelsea and under-pressure Maurizio Sarri. Is a mid-season change of manager likely at Stamford Bridge? Or do Chelsea lack strong enough personalities in the dressing room to affect change? And while we want to like VAR, City’s game at Schalke in the Champions League made it difficult.Also George lifts the lid on Newcastle’s Spanish training camp and whether Almiron has lifted the mood amongst the Magpies. Charlie Scott and Paddy von Behr provide advice ahead of the fantasy football weekend. For free Fantasy Premier League tips from The Sweeper, visit thetimes.co.uk/fantasyfootball  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti and Natalie Sawyer look ahead to another week of Champions League action in the company of Alan Smith and James Gheerbrant. With the top two in the Premier League both in action, will Liverpool prioritise the Premier League in favour of the Champions League? And will Manchester City do the opposite? Does this season represent a changing of the guard in Europe? Plus what happened when James met Joshua Kimmich? The holders Real Madrid continue to be something of a circus. Sergio Ramos is sent off again, they lose at home to Girona and Gareth Bale is accused of snubbing his team-mates in favour of golf.   Elsewhere we show some love to Pukki & Piatek, marvel at Swansea speedster Daniel James and delve deep into the Declan Rice nationality debate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti, Natalie Sawyer and Bill Edgar discuss two big Champions League nights with a man who was at Old Trafford and Wembley – Henry Winter.Tottenham dismantle Dortmund as the panel discuss how Mauricio Pochettino just gets better and better tactically, hence the staggering success of the Vertonghen gamble. And how are Tottenham unaffected by the variety of issues surrounding the club?The previous night saw PSG outclass Manchester United at Old Trafford. Should we be expecting United to be able to match the might of PSG? Or did Solskjaer get his tactical approach wrong?Plus there’s roundabouts in Swindon, some love for Solihull Moors and one of Bill’s best quizzes.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti and Natalie Sawyer are joined by Oli Kay and James Gheerbrant after a seismic Sunday where Man City hit Chelsea for six.After 3 defeats in 4 games, with plenty of goals shipped in the process, Maurizio Sarri can’t seem to get a response from his players. Is his management of the media making this situation worse and should he be projecting more positivity? Did City go easy on Chelsea? And do the changes Pep made to his starting line-up highlight how much confidence and control he has in his squad?The Champions League is back as Tottenham get ready to host Borussia Dortmund. Oli has been to meet Jadon Sancho and is impressed by him on and off the pitch. Spurs continue to impress with their will to win but is a dip in form just around the corner?As Manchester United prepare to face a depleted PSG, we ask…could Solskjaer win the Champions League again? And is he getting enough credit for the resurgence of Paul Pogba into one of Europe’s best? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by Henry Winter, Martyn Ziegler and Bill Edgar as the title race takes another twist. 7 days ago Liverpool missed the chance to go 7 points clear of Manchester City. Now the teams are separated by goal difference. Has Liverpool’s hiccup been coming? Will City’s experience prove telling? Or will Liverpool’s lack of games in comparison to City prove crucial? Plus can Maurizio Sarri inflict defeat on the champions for the second time this season? The Times report that Arsene Wenger could be back in football within a month. Will we see him return to club management or taking on an international role? And does the director of football role suit him at all? Charlie Scott and Paddy von Behr provide their advice ahead of the fantasy football weekend. For free Fantasy Premier League tips from The Sweeper, visit thetimes.co.uk/fantasyfootball  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti and Natalie Sawyer are joined by Matt Hughes and Paul Hirst after a good weekend for the Manchester clubs. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s sensational performance as interim manager at Old Trafford makes the possibility of him not being given the job permanently more and more improbable. After another victory over Leicester, would the appointment of anybody other than Ole cause uproar? And could anybody have done what Solskjaer has done? Pep proves to be unpredictable again at the Etihad, fielding Fernandinho at centre-half. Is this another example of Guardiola’s tactical flexibility or a more long-term solution? Plus what next for Emery’s Arsenal? There were emotional scenes at the Cardiff City Stadium on Saturday, at Cardiff’s first home game since the disappearance of record signing Emiliano Sala. We discuss what the transfer of Sala has revealed about the inner workings of football and ask why are there so many people involved in these deals? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A full midweek Premier League programme and a transfer deadline – what a feast for Natalie Sawyer, Gab Marcotti, Oli Kay, James Gheerbrant and George Caulkin. Liverpool miss the chance to go 7 points clear but do extend their lead to 5 points at the top of the Premier League. Did the Reds show weakness and has it been coming? And are we being too harsh on Manchester City given the points total they are on course to reach? Maurizio Sarri was shamed by his players once again as Chelsea were humiliated 4-0 at Bournemouth. Do Chelsea players lose interest? Or is Sarri playing too many of them too often? Elsewhere we’ve got the low-down on Newcastle’s new boy and we close the curtain on the Fellaini era. Paddy von Behr provides advice ahead of the fantasy football weekend. For free Fantasy Premier League tips from The Sweeper, visit thetimes.co.uk/fantasyfootball  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti and Natalie Sawyer are joined by Paul Joyce, Alan Smith and former Chelsea winger and award-winning author Paul Canoville after FA Cup 4th round weekend.Millwall shock Everton but events off the pitch overshadow that achievement, with racist chants heard in the stands. What can be done to counteract this behaviour?On the pitch, the pressure ramps up on Marco Silva with many questioning Everton’s character. And there’s further embarrassment for West Ham who are dumped out of the cup by League One AFC Wimbledon. There are scathing words for Pellegrini’s preparation and that amateur Arnautovic video.Plus find out why it’s beyond idiotic to criticise Mauricio Pochettino. And there’s the story of when Gab Marcotti met Cactus Jack somewhere private. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti and Natalie Sawyer host an author special this Thursday on The Game podcast.Joshua Robinson, co-author of The Club: How the English Premier League Became the Wildest, Richest, Most Disruptive Force in Sports, joins us alongside The Times chief sports reporter Martyn Ziegler, to discuss the global juggernaut that is England’s top tier.We delve into the knowledge of Joshua and his co-author Jonathan Clegg, who have spoken to executives and owners past and present about their emotional and financial investment. Hear about the last Chelsea team-talk pre-Abramovich and Randy Lerner’s tattoo. Plus branding, Brexit and Brentford. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer and Gab Marcotti are joined by Matt Dickinson and Alan Smith after an impactful weekend in the Premier League. Arsenal beat Chelsea emphatically at the Emirates, causing Blues boss Maurizio Sarri to publicly question his players’ motivation ahead of their Carabao Cup semi-final with Spurs. Is it a gamble worth taking? Has Sarri neglected other members of his squad for too long? Or is the system failing and are Kante and Hazard being misused? Speaking of Spurs, they come from behind to win at Fulham, despite Dele Alli adding to a growing injury list. Is the lack of summer signings about to come back to haunt them? And are the Cottagers doomed to the drop? And it’s another win for Manchester United and another goal for Marcus Rashford. Is Ole Gunnar Solskjaer right to predict he could become the best striker in the Premier League?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.