The Game

Natalie Sawyer presents the penultimate podcast of this World Cup. England are well beaten by Belgium in a slightly sobering third place play-off. Matt Dickinson joins us from St Petersburg to assess exactly where England are in the footballing pyramid right now and where upgrades need to be made. Should Ruben Loftus-Cheek have played more during this tournament? And did Harry Kane play well this summer?Football may not have come home but Alyson Rudd has. She’s in the studio to preview the World Cup Final along with Henry Winter. It’s France versus Croatia. Deschamps versus Dalic. But is the match-up in Moscow made for Mbappe or Modric? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

England’s World Cup adventure ends at the penultimate hurdle as Croatia come from behind to defeat the Three Lions in the semi-finals of the World Cup in Moscow after extra-time.Natalie Sawyer watches the game in the company of Matthew Syed, Tony Cascarino and Martyn Ziegler. Jonathan Northcroft is at the Luzhniki Stadium to heap praise on the world-class Kieran Trippier and the magnificent Mario Mandzukic.There’s tributes paid to the planning of the FA and Gareth Southgate in setting England up for future success while uniting football fans across the nation – but also some questions raised about Southgate’s substitutions.Plus Gab Marcotti joins us to put Croatia’s achievement into context as they reach their first ever World Cup final, led by Luka Modric. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer brings you The Game World Cup Daily with less than 24 hours to go until England take on Croatia for a place in the World Cup Final.Henry Winter joins us from Moscow to preview England’s biggest game in almost three decades, paying credit to Pippa Grange for the run to the last four. Plus we hear how Baddiel & Skinner’s Three Lions represents the antithesis to the mindset of the squad under Gareth Southgate.Student of Croatian football and politics, Dario Brentin gives us his insight into the controversy and corruption that has coloured the attitude of some Croatians towards their national team. Follow him @DarioBrentin on Twitter.Oliver Kay and Bill Edgar deconstruct France’s progression to their third World Cup final as a dominant defensive display sees Didier Deschamps’ men to a 1-0 victory over Belgium’s golden generation.Plus Natalie speaks to Adam Sage, who The Times asked to watch France v Belgium in France…and Belgium. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The World Cup in Russia continues to give and give to England fans. The Three Lions are through to the last 4 for the first time since 1990 after seeing off Sweden in Samara by 2 goals to nil.Natalie Sawyer, Oliver Kay and Bill Edgar assess how this unexpected rise to the top table of international football occurred under Gareth Southgate. There’s praise for Pickford and debate on whether Raheem Sterling is judged too harshly by his critics.Gab Marcotti watches Croatia progress on penalties by knocking out hosts Russia in Sochi. He gives his insight into England’s semi-final opponents, concluding Croatia can keep the ball forever. But will they be exhausted after another gruelling battle through extra-time? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can Southgate’s side see off Sweden in Samara and soar to the semi-finals? Natalie Sawyer is joined by Henry Winter and Alan Smith to analyse England’s chances in the World Cup quarter-final, as well as examining how the public have learned to fall in love with the national team again. Belgium best the bookies’ boys Brazil as Roberto Martinez looks to add World Cup glory to his FA Cup triumph with Wigan, thanks to the brilliance of De Bruyne, Hazard and Lukaku. They will face France in the last 4. Oliver Kay watches the French grind out a quarter-final win over Uruguay in Nizhny Novgorod, as Didier Deschamps’s team prove they can win a match in many different ways. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another historic night in Russia. At the World Cup where seemingly anything can happen, England win a World Cup penalty shootout for the first time ever, knocking out Colombia at the last 16 stage. Pickford’s saves keep England in the tournament, the selfless Kane continues to score and Dier displays his confidence with the winning spot-kick. Natalie Sawyer is joined by Matt Hughes and Oli Kay in Moscow to dissect a performance where England showed edge and resolve to progress to the last 8 – a performance that answers some big questions for Gareth Southgate – and look ahead to how far this team can go. Alyson Rudd watches one of the worst games of the World Cup so far in St Petersburg but is ideally placed to assess England’s next opponents after ‘the passion killers’ Sweden see off Switzerland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s time. England take on Colombia in the round of 16 in Moscow with the winner facing an appetising route to a return to the Russian capital in just over a week and a half. Natalie Sawyer brings you a comprehensive preview. Henry Winter discusses the patriotism at play in the England squad and the opportunity to end their embarrassing record in the knock-out stages. Colombian football expert Simon Edwards tells us what Tuesday night’s game means for Pekerman and his players, plus why they have the best centre-halves in the competition to deal with England’s set-piece threat.Former goalkeeper David Preece has been studying the technique of the penalty takers and stoppers at the World Cup and gives his advice to Jordan Pickford, should the inevitable shootout occur. Alyson Rudd watches the real deal in Brazil and is full of praise for their defensive structure but full of scorn for Neymar’s ludicrous amateur dramatics. And Bill Edgar reviews Belgium’s sensational 3-2 win against Japan, a fightback forged by Fellaini. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer looks back at the second day of last 16 ties at the World Cup. Two matches, two 1-1 draws, two penalty shootouts and a whole lot of drama.Hosts Russia overturn the rankings and shock the world by beating former champions Spain in Moscow. Jonathan Northcroft debates how Spain manager Fernando Hierro was found out, while paying tribute as Andres Iniesta bows out of the international stage.Matt Dickinson and Bill Edgar discuss whether or not England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is too short, Bobby Moore’s bracelet in Bogota and why Matt isn’t a waistcoat guy.Plus Croatia progress to the quarter-finals after outlasting Denmark as the panel examine England’s half of the draw and how it could lead to a brand new World Cup finalist.For more from The Times why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award-winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet for just £1 a week for your first 8 weeks. Search The Times Digital for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The knockout stage of the World Cup in Russia begins with a bang. Natalie Sawyer reviews the progression of Uruguay and France to the last 8. A stunning display from 19-year-old Kylian Mbappe blows Argentina away. Alyson Rudd joins us from Kazan and is privileged to have witnessed one of the great World Cup games. Giles Smith is in the studio to mourn the loss of Diego Maradona from our TV screens and ponder the pointlessness of beer showers at a VAR tournament. Oli Kay gives his reaction to a pulsating Uruguayan victory over Portugal as the handsome Edinson Cavani comes into form at the right time. And we debate the importance of Alli and Henderson to England ahead of their clash with Colombia on Tuesday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After all the speculation over England's Group G decider with Belgium, two reserve sides face off in Kaliningrad with Gareth Southgate's side losing 1-0 and surrendering top spot. But does finishing 2nd offer an easier route to the World Cup final? Or did defeat damage morale as England's squad players blew their chance of a regular starting berth?Natalie Sawyer is joined by Jonathan Northcroft and Alan Smith to assess England's chances of progressing in this tournament while wondering if Belgium are the real deal this time.Plus Oliver Kay watches England's next opponents Colombia knock out Senegal in Samara. And he feels the Three Lions have nothing to fear.For more from The Times why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the third World Cup in a row, the holders are knocked out at the group stage. Defeat for Germany against South Korea spelled the end of their reign as world champions and raised major questions over the attitude and atmosphere behind the scenes.Alyson Rudd reports from Kazan on the demise of the Germans and tells us why this tournament could be called the ‘under the radar cup.’Studio guest Matthew Syed is mystified and left bereft by Germany’s elimination and tries to make sense of their regression.Matt Dickinson previews England’s group decider with Belgium in Kaliningrad with questions still remaining over either side’s motivation to top Group G.And Oliver Kay has a front row seat to The Neymar Show, also known as Brazil’s victory over Serbia in Moscow.For more from The Times why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the score at 1-1 against the Super Eagles in St Petersburg, Argentina were 4 minutes away from being eliminated from the World Cup. But a Marcos Rojo volley spared Jorge Sampaoli’s blushes and knocked Nigeria out.Natalie Sawyer is joined by Martyn Ziegler and Bill Edgar to review another disjointed Argentine performance that sets up a last 16 tie with France. And should Messi’s men progress, a meeting with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal is possible in the quarter-finals.Martyn has also been examining every VAR review at the tournament and with England and Belgium separated by just yellow cards, could the drawing of lots decide Group G on Thursday?Plus Gab Marcotti witnesses a French team featuring a lost Lemar and a ghastly Griezmann. And he runs the rule over a Denmark side that will face Croatia in the next round on Sunday.For more from The Times why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spain lose and then regain top spot in Group B as VAR allows a disallowed Iago Aspas equaliser while simultaneously awarding Iran a penalty to push Portugal down into second place. Natalie Sawyer reviews a crazy couple of minutes in Kaliningrad and Saransk. She’s joined by Henry Winter, who wants VAR to clamp down on Portuguese play-acting, Alex Kay-Jelski who would like Argentina to stay in Russia and Alyson Rudd who admires Uruguay’s intelligent thuggery. Plus we bring you an update from the England camp ahead of the clash with Belgium and the conclusion to Mo Salah’s miserable month. For more from The Times why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes,@OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After pummelling Panama in record-breaking fashion, England’s attention now turns to the knock-out stages of the World Cup. But with a game to come against Group G rivals Belgium, Natalie Sawyer asks Paul Joyce and Matt Hughes whether Gareth Southgate’s side should seek to finish 2nd and navigate a potentially easier path to the final.Harry Kane is England’s hat-trick hero and the top scorer in Russia but have we seen Tottenham’s Harry Kane at this tournament yet? Oliver Kay suggests maybe not.And Alyson Rudd reports from Group H where Colombia eliminate Poland to keep their hopes of a last 16 date (potentially with England) alive as the Colombians turn Kazan into a sea of yellow.For more from The Times, why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A sensational finish in Sochi as a 95th minute winner from Toni Kroos keeps Germany’s World Cup hopes alive with a 2-1 victory over Sweden.Natalie Sawyer is joined by Matt Dickinson for his verdict on Saturday night’s drama and to preview England’s lunch date with Panama, as Ruben Loftus-Cheek looks to make a place in Gareth Southgate’s team his own.Martyn Ziegler witnesses the highest scoring game of the World Cup so far as England’s Group G rivals Belgium hammer Tunisia 5-2 in Moscow.Times photographer Jack Hill has been to Syria and back. He joins us to discuss his 24-hour trip in a train carriage with England fans.And Giles Smith has been watching football on TV and pays homage to Martin O’Neill while also telling us why Carles Puyol has already been sent home.For more from The Times, why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer reports on another historic day at the World Cup as Neymar sees a penalty given, then rescinded by VAR. Gab Marcotti discusses the world’s most expensive player and what’s going on inside his head after Brazil’s late victory over Costa Rica.Alan Smith dissects a combustible clash in Kaliningrad as Switzerland’s Kosovan contingent complete a remarkable turnaround against Serbia. Plus why Ahmed Musa has been Argentina’s best player.Paul Joyce gives us an insight into the England camp as Gareth Southgate criticises the leak of the team sheet against Panama. Should the media be more supportive of the England team? And Tom Clarke gives us a tactical breakdown of what the Three Lions can expect from their opponents on Sunday.For more from The Times, why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the biggest stories of this World Cup in Russia continues to unfold as Argentina stand on the brink of elimination after their 3-0 drubbing by Croatia. Natalie Sawyer is joined by Oliver Kay, Matt Dickinson and Bill Edgar as Lionel Messi struggles to carry a country on his shoulders.We discuss the likelihood of Raheem Sterling being replaced by Marcus Rashford for England's meeting with Panama on Sunday.Alyson Rudd analyses French progression to the round of 16 as Peru are sent home. Plus Alan Smith explains the political backdrop to Serbia v Switzerland and why Shaqiri might need his shin pads.For more from The Times, why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another day, another England story as a wander into the woods ends with manager Gareth Southgate in a sling. Natalie Sawyer gets an update from the England camp with Paul Joyce who has also been speaking to Ruben Loftus-Cheek about his future at Chelsea.Gab Marcotti gives us a full breakdown of events in Group B where Cristiano Ronaldo becomes the all-time top European goal scorer and the power of the vuvuzelas can’t prevent Iran from losing to Spain. Plus Giles Smith from The Times is in the studio to analyse the battle in World Cup coverage between the BBC and ITV.Which means we discuss the greatest goal getter that ever lived and the greatest set that’s ever been built.For more from The Times, why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only, it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host nation Russia are as good as qualified for the last 16 of the World Cup, for the first time ever. Natalie Sawyer is joined by Alyson Rudd and James Gheerbrant as Mo Salah’s Egypt are set to head home.With Dele Alli suffering a thigh strain, former Liverpool physio Mark Leather gives his prognosis on the severity of the injury, while Henry Winter updates us from his log cabin at the England camp.Martyn Ziegler takes in Senegal’s victory over Poland and has been speaking to FIFA about VAR while we also bring you the story of the Iranian women set to watch their team play for the very first time.For more from The Times, why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The rollercoaster ride of following the Three Lions continues as England leave it late to secure 3 points in their World Cup opener against Tunisia.Natalie Sawyer is joined by Matt Dickinson, Matt Hughes and Alyson Rudd to salute the bagger of a brace Harry Kane, debate the non-appearance of VAR in Volgograd and discuss whether Ruben Loftus-Cheek can fill Dele Alli’s boots.The video officials do help deliver Sweden’s first opening day victory since 1958. Plus Ian Hawkey is on Panama Watch for the podcast in Sochi as England’s next opponents succumb to Belgium in their first ever World Cup match.For more from The Times, why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Gareth Southgate’s men 24 hours from Tunisia, Natalie Sawyer, Jonathan Northcroft and James Gheerbrant ask will we see the real Harry Kane? And what’s to be done about those Volgograd mosquitos?Tom Clarke gives us a tactical breakdown of Tunisia, the panel analyse a lacklustre start from Neymar and Brazil after their draw with Switzerland and Oli Kay is in Moscow where Mexico upset and outsmart World Cup holders Germany on matchday 4.For more from The Times, why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matchday 3 was historic for the World Cup as not one but two penalties were awarded with the help of the Video Assistant Referee.Natalie Sawyer breaks down all that and an incredible first ever point at the World Cup for Iceland who contained the might of Messi and Argentina.Bill Edgar and Jonathan Northcroft discuss the day’s action, as France see off Australia with the help of technology, Croatia cruise past Nigeria and Denmark break Peruvian hearts. Plus what could make Fabian Delph unique amongst England footballers?And Times writer George Caulkin talks about his trip on the Trans-Siberian Railway and travels around Russia, all in the name of football.For more from The Times, why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer reviews a breathless Matchday 2 at the World Cup. Three games all decided by last minute goals, as the panel react to the greatest World Cup performance of Cristiano Ronaldo’s career, in Portugal’s 3-3 draw with Spain.James Gheerbrant has his eye on Uruguay, while Matt Dickinson watches Iran make history but curses the return of the vuvuzela.And Alyson Rudd is cold in Kazan as she looks forward to her first glimpse of the French ahead of their clash with Australia.For more from The Times, why not take advantage of our digital sale and subscribe to enjoy award winning journalism online and on your smartphone or tablet. For a limited time only it's just £1 a month for your first 3 months. Search The Times Sale for more information.You can follow @NatalieSawyer on Twitter and track our award-winning writers in Russia, including @henrywinter, @DickinsonTimes, @OliverKayTimes, @_pauljoyce, @allyrudd_times, @martynziegler and @JNorthcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The World Cup is underway! Natalie Sawyer brings you the first of our daily matchday podcasts from The Times, alongside Matt Hughes in a studio that could rival ITV for grandeur and excess.Henry Winter gives us the latest from the England camp where bowling and darts dominate the agenda. Oliver Kay reports from Moscow after the hosts’ 5-0 win on opening day over a spectacularly inept Saudi Arabia side. And Gab Marcotti joins us to discuss one of the most remarkable stories in World Cup history – Spain sacking manager Julen Lopetegui just 48 hours before their opening fixture with Portugal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalie Sawyer fronts the new World Cup podcast from The Times, publishing every night after the final whistle on every matchday. In our opening episode, Gab Marcotti, Henry Winter and James Gheerbrant join Natalie to look ahead to this summer in Russia.The panel focus on Russia’s preparations to host the tournament and what shape England find themselves in, as they seek to end 52 years of hurt. Plus we run the rule over the contenders and pretenders looking to take home the trophy. Does the evidence suggest we should be writing off the Germans? Are Belgium under-prepared? And can Didier Deschamps drive the French Ferrari? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the last regular season episode before the start of our World Cup podcasts, Gab Marcotti is joined by James Scowcroft and Jonathan Northcroft to discuss the fall-out from Real Madrid’s Champions League Final victory over Liverpool. From that rascal Ramos to Bale baling out on the Bernabeu, via those Karius catastrophes.We also have analysis of Emery’s arrival at the Emirates, the Cottagers’ comeback to the top flight and every Premier League club has their season graded by the panel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti is joined by Alyson Rudd and Matt Dickinson to discuss Chelsea's FA Cup final victory over Manchester United and the aftermath at Wembley. Was United's manager too disrespectful to his players and were Chelsea players too disrespectful to their manager?Also on the agenda, Arsenal's potential acquisition of Mikel Arteta as their new manager, as reported by The Times. And after the announcement of England's World Cup squad, the panel analyse Gareth Southgate's major decisions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alyson Rudd hosts a special Times Plus event in the company of Matt Dickinson, former Republic of Ireland striker Tony Cascarino and Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson.Roy reveals his insight on Ruben Loftus-Cheek and his thoughts on two high-profile players that didn't make the England squad for Russia - Jack Wilshere and Joe Hart. Plus he reflects on the great escape for Crystal Palace while the panel also look ahead to the Championship play-off final, Champions League final and the World Cup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the Premier League campaign draws to a close, Gab Marcotti, Oli Kay and James Scowcroft discuss the Manchester City Centurions and whether their feat of reaching 100 points is less likely to be replicated than the Arsenal Invincibles.Plus the panel pick apart the latest Pochettino power play and they select not just their Premier League team of the season but their team of the season outside the top 6. No journalists or ex-footballers were harmed in the making of this podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti is joined by Julien Laurens and James Gheerbrant to discuss the pulsating Premier League action that saw West Brom somehow survive another weekend and the race for the top 4 restart.Plus are Neil Warnock’s Cardiff a welcome addition to the Premier League? Was Sparky too sarcy about Jon Moss? And do Chelsea have the most handsome forward line in football? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti is joined by Jonathan Northcroft and James Scowcroft who run the rule over the relegation run-in in the Premier League. Plus Paul Joyce helps dissect the disharmony at Liverpool that led to assistant Zeljko Buvac stepping away just days before the second leg of their Champions League semi-final. And are pundits like Shearer and Souness harsher on players than ever before? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti is joined by Henry Winter, Stewart Robson (who’s forced to say some nice things about Arsene Wenger) and Bill Edgar (who relives his pitch-invading days). The longest serving manager in English football will be leaving at the end of the season so the panel debate Wenger’s legacy, the details of the departure and what next for Arsenal?Plus in the FA Cup semi-finals, why did Spurs go limp and why didn’t Southampton go harder? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alyson Rudd, Matt Dickinson and Julien Laurens salute the magnificent Manchester City, the new champions of England as Pep overcomes the power of the Premier League. The panel also ask whether people are jealous of Wolves, how are Southampton’s squad on the brink of relegation and why is Steve Parish opposed to VAR? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti is joined by Alyson Rudd and Julien Laurens to discuss a jaw-dropping weekend, not just in the Premier League but at the top of the Championship.There’s in-depth analysis of the Manchester derby, first-hand experience of a dramatic win for Wolves in Wales and the panel try and piece together the puzzle that is Danny Welbeck. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s Easter weekend and Gab Marcotti is joined by James Scowcroft and Julien Laurens to feast on all the big footballing issues. Will Chelsea hire a new director of football before appointing a new manager? Should Big Sam be sacked by Everton? And will we see Alan Pardew in the Premier League again? Plus the panel look ahead to the last 8 of the Champions League. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, it's The Game Podcast Book Club! Grant Wahl from Sports Illustrated joins us to discuss his new book Football 2.0: How The World's Best Play The Modern Game. And Brazil-based journalist Andrew Downie tells us about Doctor Socrates: Footballer, Philosopher, Legend, which is out now in paper back.Gab Marcotti also reflects on England's victory in Holland with Henry Winter and Stewart Robson, including debate on Southgate's back 3 and some regrettable scenes in Amsterdam. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Since our last podcast, Jose Mourinho has been talking. A lot. Gab Marcotti, Oli Kay and Stewart Robson attempt to dissect Mourinho’s words, including his summer strategy, his Sevilla summary and whether or not Luke Shaw is being bullied. Away from Old Trafford, we look at the FA Cup quarter-finals, Sparky’s return to Southampton and Gareth Southgate’s England squad. Plus there’s some credit due for Sheffield United. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti is in the company of Matt Dickinson and Julien Laurens to discuss Manchester United’s victory over Liverpool and the shocking aftermath of former player turned pundit Jamie Carragher spitting at a fan.James Jones, founder of West Ham World, joins us to discuss the ugly scenes that marred the Hammers’ home defeat by Burnley. Plus how much Ant & Dec should Sam Allardyce be watching? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

England World Cup goalscorer Matthew Upson makes his debut on The Game podcast alongside Gab Marcotti and Matt Hughes to discuss the Premier League weekend as the champions submit to the champions elect.It’s time for another Arsenal enquiry and the panel try to unlock the Glenn Murray mystery. Also on the agenda - Martin Glenn, Scott McTominay and the Korean Thomas Muller. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a fabulous footballing Sunday, Gab Marcotti is joined by Alyson Rudd and Paul Hirst to review Manchester City’s League Cup Final win over Arsenal and Manchester United’s Premier League victory over Chelsea.  The panel assess Antonio Conte’s pessimism, the yellow ribbon and how the Gunners were fearless. In a bad way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Political behemoth Alastair Campbell is in the studio this week to discuss his new football-based crime novel Saturday Bloody Saturday, out now, as well as his beloved Burnley and the time when Rochdale manager Keith Hill was on Fergie’s radar. Plus Gab Marcotti has a Very Angry Reaction to VAR mistruths. He’s also joined by Stewart Robson (the business model for Arsenal Fan TV), James Gheerbrant and Gregor Robertson who’s written an article for The Times on PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor’s salary. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s a grand old Game this week as Gab Marcotti is joined by Jonathan Northcroft, Julien Laurens and Henry Winter to discuss a massive win for the Magpies over Manchester United. Plus the panel look ahead to the Champions League ties this week. And did Kane foul Koscielny in the North London Derby? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alyson Rudd hosts a special Times Plus event in Newcastle in the company of George Caulkin, Oliver Kay and Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez.In front of a live audience, Rafa reveals all about his relationship with the city of Newcastle, the wide-open relegation battle, the miracle of Istanbul and phone-calls with his mother. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti is the voice of the voiceless after the Philadelphia Eagles triumph in the Super Bowl. But there’s plenty to talk about with Oliver Kay and James Scowcroft, including the lack of atmosphere at Old Trafford and beyond, two controversial penalties at Anfield and Lookman’s move to Leipzig. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After an eventful FA Cup 4th round weekend, Gab Marcotti is joined by Alyson Rudd and Stewart Robson to discuss the furore over the foul by Joe Bennett on Leroy Sane, and fixate on the flaws in VAR and Liverpool's defence. Plus can Moura bring more to Spurs and will Aubameyang advance Arsenal? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti is joined by Matt Hughes and Bill Edgar to discuss the inevitable Alexis Sanchez - Henrikh Mkhitaryan swap deal and yet another manager biting the dust at Watford. Also on the agenda, the never-ending Newcastle takeover and the future of Harry Kane. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mark Clattenburg joins Gab Marcotti this week to react to the Premier League action and give a referee's insight into English football's first foray into VAR. Plus Alyson Rudd and James Gheerbrant are in the studio to talk Manchester City's first domestic defeat, Sanchez for sale, and the arrivals of Paul Lambert at Stoke and Ryan Giggs at Wales. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti is joined by Oliver Kay and Stewart Robson for a bumper podcast that takes in the FA Cup third round, the ins and outs at Liverpool & Stoke and whether the rivalry between Mourinho and Conte has gone too far. Plus why you shouldn't keep artwork in the conservatory... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti, Henry Winter and Alyson Rudd pick their manager and player of 2017, while also issuing their grades for the Premier League season so far. Which team is teacher's pet and which side are sitting in the corner with a dunce's hat on?This week the panel review Huddersfield, Brighton, Stoke, Southampton, Newcastle, Crystal Palace, West Ham, Bournemouth, West Brom and Swansea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gab Marcotti, Henry Winter and Alyson Rudd issue their grades for the Premier League season so far. Which team is teacher's pet and which side are sitting in the corner with a dunce's hat on?This week the panel review Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham, Arsenal, Burnley, Leicester, Watford and Everton. Part 1 of 2. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.