The Game

It’s a three-horse title race, the first in years, so who did the result at the weekend benefit the most?Tom Allnutt, Alyson Rudd and Gregor Robertson join Tom Clarke to predict who will win the league. Was a point at Anfield good for City, was Liverpool’s momentum stalled and will Arsenal handle the pressure of going top?Who has the tougher run in and who is each team’s most important player?Spurs love playing the top teams, but Villa seemed to lack belief. Either way, does the race for fourth even matter, if you qualify for the champions league and your team’s not ready?Plus, a rattle through the weekends other results. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregor Robertson mediates as Martin Samuel and Tony Cascarino discuss sabbaticals, John Peel and Yu-Gi-Oh!Oh, and some of the week's biggest football talking points: Are Sheffield United the worst team to ever play in the Premier League? Has the Champions League become too predictable? And who will win Sunday's era ending game between Liverpool and Man City? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke reviews a bumper weekend of Premier League talking points with Gregor Robertson, Tony Cascarino and Paul Hirst...... What level are Manchester United at? Who is currently the best player in the League (Guardiola thinks it's Phil Foden)? And why on earth have Nottingham Forest hired Mark Clattenburg?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Genes count as three sons of former players star for Liverpool. As academy players are in the spotlight the team discuss the modern player, private education and clubs more holistic approach to their assets. Had Stan Bowles been a player now he may have had more help with gambling problems that beset his life, Martin and Tony share their memories of a great player with a crazy life. With Wolves one game away from Wembley, is Gary O’Neil in line for manager of the season?On to FFP and points deductions, Finally, its Paul Pogba, Eric Ten Hag and martin makes a bold prediction about Brighton. Timeline: FA Cup2’ Klopps trust in the kids3’ This is Klopp’s chance to play the kids, they won’t be playing against City in two weeks. Great for the Dads. Three kids there all whose dads got them playing.5’ How have Liverpool not conceded in last two games?7’ all seem well rounded young men. Moulding good young people not just players.8’ Players with pros as parents know how to stay the course.11’ Lots of young players sent to private school by clubs.14’ They’ve done brilliant but a long way to go.17’ At Wolves, Gary O’Neil, took over five days before season started. He could get them to a Wembley semi/final.20’ He has walked in and not asked for too much change. Everton points deduction23’ six is better then ten. But its still too much.24’ Not good to have lawyers deciding league placings.25’ guidelines are better than nothing. But still no structure.26’ we need clear rules.27’ Everton will now be fine, little danger of relegation. Stan Bowles32’ A maverick, a gambler, and an entertainer.33’ Many stories about the colourful life, playing snakes and ladders for £50 a corner…34’ The stories obscure how good he was as a player. In 74’ QPR were 14 mins from winning the league.37’ Don shanks compared him to Aguero, he was a continental footballer in Britain. Tony thinks Zola.38’ there was a sad side to stan. He had a testimonial and gambled all the money away within a few weeks. Brighton42’ Martin thinks Brighton are too good…they will keep losing good staff and good players. You can’t sustain that.44’ No matter the data team, at some point you can’t pull another rabbit out the hat.45’ Bloom is a genius; he is possibly the best owner of a club in the world. Pogba53’ Pogba banned for four years for doping. effectively ending his career54’ Very sad, Sad way for a player of his talent to end his career. It won’t end with this, there is more to come out. Manchester derby56’ who knows, Martin can’t predict.57’ I can’t see how he [Ten Hag] can be there man for next season. Because if he was, they’d have come out and said it.60’ fabulous team, but you just can’t get the ball off them. Be amazed if Man City don’t win Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Was it Captain Colossus, Klopp’s charisma or just really good academy players that got Liverpool over the line? Alyson Rudd was Nostradamus, highlighting last week the huge impact Virgil Van Dyke has on his Liverpool team. What now for Pochettino and Chelsea, wilting in extra time and still no trophy.At Old Trafford the shoots of hope were trampled by a very good Fulham performance. It left some wondering, what the club have to show for the second most expensive signing ever…Anthony. For Crystal Palace, Oliver Glasner has hit the ground running with signs of a blueprint after only two games.Finally, its Arsenal looking strong and good luck to George Elokobi and Maidstone. Timeline: Cup final2’ Liverpool, well deserved win. Chelsea created better chances, but Liverpool had the fight, hunger and drive.4’ Tom A felt Chelsea were in the ascendancy, until extra time. Poch’s disappointment was how they played extra time.8’ Alyson the prophet, saw the impact VVD has on Liverpool.13’ It is precious to have academy players in big games. It strengthens the bond between team and supporters.14’ Chelsea had that and they burnt it.15’ Liverpool testament to a long term structure and plan.“Its not a coincidence that you get a 19yr old at a club like Liverpool who can step in and look like he’s been there for years.”19’ Chelsea have wasted their money. Who is not buying into Poch’s culture.21’ Too many mistakes and get too introverted to easily.22’ a collective malaise, where is it coming from? Pricky Pep24’ doesn’t like journalists, looked bored26’ seems to hate doing press.28’ The pressure and demands on managers are enormous. Manchester United31’ Ten Hag back under pressure. Result indicative of what’s going on at the club.32’ Tom’s visit to Ajax, no one thought Anthony was worth what Man U paid for him.33’ Are they going to build off field first then the team? Or on pitch first.36’ Hot managerial market this summer. Liverpool, Barca and Bayern all looking.37’ Fulham were excellent, they wanted it and were without Paulinha, Jimenez and Willian.38’ Muniz stepping up, looked good. Iwobi, really good, cool finish. Palace40’ already there is a blueprint. 3-4-2-141’ Matheaus Franca, looked good, suddenly can see why they signed him.43’ great start for Glasner, good record of signings from championship, Wharton another of them. They have good young players.44’ free roll of the dice for a mid table club. Arsenal46’ Playing fantastic, front foot football. They’re flying.48’ Goals from 19 set pieces and best defence…50’ Should Eddie howe be worried, they’re tailing away. Look poor first half.51’ Arsenal suffocated them, pressed them to death. Good luck George!!Maidstone take on Coventry City in the FA cup tonight. They’re the lowest ranked team to reach round five in over 40 years.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ahead of a huge FA Cup tie for Maidstone United, a special edition of The Game.Ever wondered how a part time team prepares for a big cup game against a team four leagues above them? Or what it’s like to score your first premier league goal, or get ‘tortured’ by a winger in front of Sir Alex at Old Trafford..? In a bonus edition of The Game Alyson Rudd and producer Neil went to meet Maidstone manager George Elokobi…. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A quick look at the mid-week fixtures and a bold claim, Arsenal have the best defence, and defences win leagues… City won again and Klopp likened his teams win against Luton to their famous win against Barcelona.James Gheerbrandt went to see Tuchel lose out to Xabi Alonso against Leverkusen. A week later he ‘agreed’ to leave Munich, where next and what are the knock-on effects in the managerial merry go round?  Tom, Martin, James and Gregor discuss the bold new vision presented by Sir Jim Ratcliffe at Manchester United, is three years optimistic and why no backing for Ten Hag…? Timeline:2’ Arsenal sucker punched by Porto3’ Different feel to European games, lots of fouls, grappling.5’ Good for the champions league to have such a different feel. Made it tough for Arsenal.8’ arsenal looking at not getting to quarters again, do they need to change mindset. 11’ Arsenal have the bets defence in the league, and titles are won by defences…13’ Klopp has created, built character at Liverpool, that will get you a long way. Tuchel leaves Munich20’ Will Tuchel leaving mean Alonso goes to Munich?21’ Tuchel was out manoeuvred by Alonso, he won the tactical battle.22’ Weird move by Munich, not good for dressing room.24’ If Liverpool want him, they need to get in now and tell him, before Munich do. Sir Jim Ratcliffe33’ He wants Man Utd ‘turned around’ in three years. Three years isn’t very long…can he do it?35’ He has a helping hand with Klopp leaving, and city facing FFP investigations37’ he was bullish, might regret that. Came close to slagging the glazers off.38’ No mention or backing for Ten Hag42’ slates being cleared. They’ve had good managers, it’s the system they work in that needs fixing.45’ We’re Manchester United and we’re coming to get you.  49’ extraordinary that it has taken 11 years for this to happen for Man Utd to have a modern set up.51’ everything is about money. Why is it surprising that Newcastle want money for Dan Ashworth…54’ On the pitch looks better, but still a long way to go. Gregor still thinks they are miles off.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

City dropped points, Liverpool picked up more injuries and Arsenal are eleven nil up from their last two games. So where does that leave the title race?Which players are irreplaceable on a title run in?Crystal Palace look set to make a managerial change, but how have they handled it, with Roy Hodgson still unwell and Oliver Glasner seemingly lined up to replace him.Who is best placed to be Harry Kane’s understudy? Gregor Robertson thinks Ollie Watkins is the complete striker. Alyson Rudd thinks Ivan Tony has international class.Rasmus Hojlund has turned a corner and is now the youngster player to score in six consecutive premier league games, will it be enough to drag Man Utd into the top four… Timeline: Title race2’ Across two games Chelsea were really good. Chilwell handled Foden well.3’ Best game Disasi has had in a Chelsea shirt.4’ Haaland wont’ have many games like that.5’ Can’t believe how nice you’re being to Chelsea. They were defensive smart performance from Chelsea8’ city’s record against top 6 is a concern. They’re third, behind Arsenal and Chelsea.Liverpool9’ Virgil Van Dyke, a man with presence. Key to being clam is enjoying the football.11’ having an amazing season Arsenal15’ Forward line has grown in confidence as the goals have come.16’ Liverpool victory was key.18’ Burnley and West Ham abysmal. So 11-0 for arsenal has context.19’ all done without Zinchenko and Jesus. Injuries21’ could have a key part in title race. Each of the big three have key players- Van Dyke, Stones, Rodri, Saliba…will injuries affect the outcome.22’ Liverpool have youngster on the side lines already bedded in who can step in.Roy Hodgson23’ Awful position to have a manager facing the sack whilst also ill in hospital.25’ when Hodgson collapsed he still hadn’t been told, but it is an open secret that Glasner is going to get the job.28’ Roy shouldn’t be in a position of being angry with the club going behind his back. 29’ they way they are handling this is terrible. And it isn’t the first time.Watkins or Tony31’ Masterclass from Watkins at the weekend32’ His importance to Villa is immense, their top four challenge rests on his shoulders.33’ He is profile similar to Kane.36’ His stats put him in elite company.37’ Watkins is always involved, even if he isn’t flashy. His skill set is very broad.40’ Ivan Tony is very unselfish. He has improved Maupay enormously. Makes unselfish runs and links up others players. Very good intuition. He has international class.43’ Kane’s understudy…Watkins for Gregor. Wide skill set. But Alyson thinks Tony, he has more arrogance and would step up to international football. Watkins is developing that arrogance.Man Utd and Rasmus Hojlund  47’ Youngest player to score in 6 premier league games on the spin.48’ Led the line brilliantly, looked confident, strong and with a strikers nose.51’ Without his goals they had no chance of top four. Now…it looks possible, but not yet likely.Bad tackles53’ This was Sheff United’s chance to create hope of safety. Holgate blew it inside 20 minutes.56’ Tough times for Chris Wilder. He had a big win at Luton and they haven’t backed it up. So momentum has been lost. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Could Harry Kane really have another trophy-less season? If he does it won’t be for the lack of effort. The England captain has had a brilliant season, is endearing himself to the German fans, but it could still be not quite enough. Man City strolled to another win in the Champions league, are they now at their best?How would you feel if your club was part of a multi ownership model, with sister clubs in other countries…it is becoming more and more common, what are the pros and cons?Finally the new era at Manchester United looks set to start with the signing of…sporting director Dan Ashworth from Newcastle. Tom, Martin, Jonny and Gregor all agree, its good business.  Timeline: Harry Kane2’ Looking like he may not win anything in Germany. 3’ if he’d stayed at Spurs he’d be unlikely to win anything either.6’ Highly likely Munich will win something, if not this season then next. 7’ we don’t seem to celebrate success in the same way in this country. He couldn’t do anymore, he’s been great.11’ Kane endears himself to the supporters.18’ He could stay for two or three years, especially if his family are happy. City22’ They look back to their best, so easy.23’ John Stones looked accomplished in pivot role. Is he taken for granted?26’ Pep had a pop at Grealish.28’ Guardiola has earned the right to criticise, he is subtle with it though.Multi club ownership33’ Girona in Spain, the smallest ground in La Liga, a budget 700million euros less than Madrid, yet they are in a title race. Astonishing.36’ If they’re good owners, what does it matter.39’ Girona are the exception, many multi ownership models favour the ‘big fish.’40’ 8 of top 18 teams in Belgium part of multi club models.42’ it depends on the club, some push back and do wish to be part of a large organisation – Strasbourg declined Chelsea.48’ It’s a growth industry, 180 clubs world wide now part of multi ownership groups, it was 40 a decade ago. Man United52’ Looks like Dan Ashworth is going to be poached from Newcastle. 54’ Looks a good positive move from Jim Ratcliffe.55’ Ashworth is one of the best in that particular role.54’ Ashworth has ushered in a far greater degree of intelligence in the way clubs are run, he did it at West Brom, FA and Brighton.56’ Man Utd are the last of the old style football clubs.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For fifteen minutes it seemed Arsenal were the complete team, but was that down to West Ham’s passivity? What does the result from the London Stadium mean for both teams - are Arsenal now back in the title race, if they were ever out of it; and for West Ham is a contract for David Moyes more or less likely?The result at Spurs was not reflective of an end to end encounter. Brighton refuse to take a backward step and Spurs now have all their players available again.After the break, what/who is Scot McTominay? A six, an eight, a ten or a throwback. The team try to figure it out. He helped Utd to a key win. Villa lost, but played well.Finally, Gregor went to meet Luton forward Elijah Adebayo but he was an unlucky omen for a great lad. Oh and Alyson is getting excited about Xabi Alonso…Timeline:West Ham v Arsenal4’ Hard for arsenal to win a title with some many London derbies to negotiate. West Ham have a good record against Arsenal.6’ Trossard was superb. 15 min spell with four goals. They had everything for that spell. Pace, power, grace, intelligence.9’ Arsenal were in control, they made it a technical contest. Last season it felt like it got tense and emotional.10’ the asterix is West Ham are all at sea.11’ Gregor thought West Ham were passive.13’ easy to extrapolate too much from games like this. Just one win.16’ West Ham fans might have seen this performance coming. Team set up on the back foot.17’ West Ham have some good players, could do something under a more progressive coach. Tottenham v Brighton20’ to teams better at pressing than playing out from the back. Repeatedly stealing the ball off each other in the final third.21’ It came down to both teams not quite having the quality in the final third, Son made the difference. The quality makes the difference in those fine margins.23’ it was all about Son, it felt like he had been away for a year.24’ Spurs are looking good, they’ve got all their options back for the first time under Postecoglou26’ Spurs need more out wide if they are going to progress to the next level.27’ Brighton missing the cutting edge up front. But still doing remarkably well with the resources they have and the type of football they play.28’ Brighton - Playing above themselves, brilliant to watch and a clear style of play.Scott McTominay and Villa v Utd31’ Jack of all trades or will he be a 8 or a 10? Always looked like he would be a destroyer rather than a goal scorer.32’ for all his appearances and goals he still won’t be a starter.34’ Its not definitive that he can’t start. 35’ Any parallels with John McGinn at Villa, not quite a centre mid or a ten?36’ Are their good players being phased out who can’t do what the modern creative/pressing era requires.38’ This is Utd from last season, grabbing wins they shouldn’t whilst not playing very well. But still amassing the points.40’ Villa have had a dip, but yesterday they played well and felt they were unlucky not to win.41’ Utd now seem better placed to finish top four than Villa…But spurs look good.Luton v Sheff Utd43’ Spent a long time at Fulham without playing for the first team. Appreciates where he is now.44’ The energy at Luton comes from players who have had to fight to play top level football.47’ Sheff Utd were fearless. Didn’t come for a draw. Bundesliga 48’ Leverkusen deserved their great win against Munich. Poor Harry Kane looks like he might not win a title.50’ some of Leverkusen’s patterns of play were amazing. 52’ Alonso is nothing like Klopp, that could be a really good thing. IF he goes to Liverpool.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are sin bins a good idea? It looks increasingly likely that they will be trialled in specific games/competitions next season. Tom, Martin, Gregor and Tony discuss the pros and cons of sinbins and other IFAB proposed rule changes. Chelsea confounded the critics with a five star display at Villa park, but can they reproduce it?While Chelsea celebrate the team move on to discusshow, where and when one should celebrate. FYI, its not in front of the Millwallfans when you’ve just scored against them. Finally, Jesse Lingard is off the South Korea… Timeline: Chelsea and Villa5’ how do you predict football. Convincing performance, but off the back of Wolves and Liverpool performances.7’ young players will have good nights, but its about consistency.9’ Jackson’s confidence will rise from playing wide and contributing.10’ A drop in standards from Villa.11’ Early goals made all the difference.Celebrations14’ I’m not the celebration police, but keep your trousers on. Play nice.16’ Tony and his limo. Jibes about players wages on the pitch.18’ Carful how you mock…what goes around…22’ Its part of the game. Gregor would love to have someone like Maupay in his team, winding up the opposition is part of the celebration.27’ The dentists chair was a classic orchestrated celebration29’ the plans that go into each game. High fiving defenders for a clearance.32’ We’ve turned into the celebration police.38’ Tony celebrated against his former clubs…Cooling off38’ the self pass is a good rule, one used in rugby and hockey. That would cut out decent.38’ The cooling off period wouldn’t achieve that. 40’ there are easier things to do which don’t alter the structure of the game.41’ The laws need to be simplified, not complicated.43’ All seem in favour of a Sin bin46’ Are we setting unrealistic targets for perfection in the running and ruling of football.50’ the penalty spot is the perfect example of the madness at IFAB…by trying to improve it they make it worse. Jesse Lingard 53’ Korean culture doesn’t need Lingard. He might need it though.55’ It’s a shame, he’s a better player than south Korean league.56’ He might regret not taking the offers on the table58’ did he choose money over a good football choice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arsenal are back in the title race, but are Liverpool suffering the delayed effects of Jurgen Klopp’s announcement last week? Tom, Alyson, Gregor, and Tony discuss the result at the Emirates and where it leaves both teams. It was a positive weekend for Manchester United, two wins on the bounce and Erik Ten Hag more upbeat than ever, have they finally turned a corner?Chelsea by contrast go from bad to worse. The team see no light at the end of the tunnel for a team over budget, with no identity, no character and facing FFP restrictions. No such trouble at Wolves who are a showcase for the ability of Gary O’Neil…will Crystal Palace come calling if he isn’t given a new contract by Wolves soon. And a quick tip of the hat for Luton.  Timeline:Arsenal v Liverpool2’ Keepers at fault, Alisson and Reya,  should have stayed on their line.4’ the let down after Klopp’s announcement6’ Nunez should start if fit. 7’ poor as a team, off the pace, Trent AA nose out of joint.10’ Arsenal were fantastic. Structured, first goal was great.11’ Brave on the ball at the back, resisting Liverpool’s press13’ What do Liverpool do now?18’ It’s a reset moment for Liverpool…will they or not? Manchester united20’ Positive signs, two wins on the trot.21’ there is balance in the team with Shaw and Martinez back. Mainoo offers legs alongside Casimero.22’ Ten Hag suddenly has a predictable eleven.25’ The Kobbie Mainoo goal could have been the springboard.26’ There are lights and reasons for optimism, can they sustain it. West Ham29’ Tough start for Kalvin Philips at West ham. He looks short on confidence and a little unfit.32’ missing pre season is key. Philips playing catch up from not playing at City. Chelsea and Wolves   35’ Fans berating players, some berating manager, joined with the Wolves fans who sang you’re f**ing sh*t.36’ Wolves were a joy to watch. Everything Chelsea are not. Pace, bravery and positivity.37’ Gary O’Neil not getting credit because it’s about the Chelsea crisis.38’ Chelsea sold all their personality. 41’ Chelsea could be in freefall, they need to move players on.41’ Chelsea If you take Tiago out it looks like a team of little boys.43’ Is Poch the problem? 46’ They can’t afford to sack him, even if they want to.48’ Will O’Neil stay at Wolves? He’ll be in demand. Are Palace looking?Crystal Palace51’ no depth in squad, can’t afford it, results reflect that. Bit of bad luck with injuries to key players. 54’ Getting rid of Hodgson would be a political decision.55’ It’ll end badly, because the club shouldn’t have reemployed him in the summer. 57’ bigger issues at Palace, Steve Parish owns 10% but his a bigger say on pitch,,,why? 58’ There is conflict in the board room.Luton58’ Of course they can stay up!!60’ They’re brave, they play with positivity and ross Barkley has found a home.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If Luton stay up is Rob Edwards the manager of the season? Tom, Martin, Gregor and Jonny discuss. Kenilworth Road has become the awkward advantage that many pundits thought it would be, and Ross Barkley is providing flashes of inspiration. At Selhurst park it is the Eze and Olise show, just how good are they? Sticking with attacking flair Ange-ball is back in full flow at Spurs, will Postecoglou take Tottenham into the Champions league?After the break its Liverpool and their title chances and life after Jurgen Klopp, plus a remarkable tail of a very unlikely manager…Carlos Tevez. Timeline:Luton2’ If Luton stay up, Rob Edwards is manager of the season.3’ they playing good football, they’ve revitalised ross Barkley and lost their captain to a cardiac arrest.5’ Rob Edwards has got the best out of his players. Played positive football and recovered from a poor start.7’ They have harnessed community spirit and togetherness.8’ Kenilworth road is a completely different environment to any other premier league ground.10’ Still ow down on XG but Carlton Morris and Adebayo have stepped up.11’ Don’t underestimate Ross Barkley’s influence.13’ A dip for Brighton, have they sold too many players? Palace; the Eze and Olise show17’ Eze creates goals out of nothing.18’ They do the unorthodox and show there is still a value in the game for that.19’ both were rejected by other clubs…21’ Eze is an X factor player, he’s in the England squad, he’s doing better than Grealish this season. Spurs25’ Ange does not take backwards step, there will be problems, but he seems to have come through it.26’ Still only 8 points off the top. In the top four.27’ Martin on Postecoglou “If he gets them in the champions league he’s done a fabulous job.”28’ This man has added to the gayety of nations, no doubt about it. Tevez – worlds least likely manager31’ crazy character, very open, loved his family and Argentina.34’ Tevez unlikely rise to management. Got Independiente winning and playing high press football.36’ will he, could he come the Premier League…?37’ Always the players you don’t suspect who become good managers.39’ He has brought in neuroscience and a school teacher. A kind calm man.Liverpool v Chelsea42’ Connor Bradley, the player that puts alexander Arnold into midfield.43’ Liverpool a squad refreshed, Klopp is leaving a gift.45’ Lets wait and see on Alonso.46’ Postecoglou is the ideal replacement for Klopp49’ Hardest job is replacing Klopp’s relationship with the fans.51’ Liverpool could steamroller Arsenal…Gregor thinks otherwise, Liverpool could be tested going the other way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom gets the tissues out to console Alyson and Tony before they discuss who will replace Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool. Alonso is the favourite, but as Gregor points out he’s only had 18 months first team management experience.As Klopp departs has the scrutiny of referees added to the increase in football disorder and referee attacks?Alyson met George Elokobi and his mentor Mick McCarthy ahead of Maidstone's FA Cup win. It was such a good omen, they want to do it again before round six.Finally what’s eating Marcus Rashford…? Is Joao Pedro worth 100million and is Vincent Kompany listening to Alyson…?Timeline:Klopp 2’ three words to sum up Jurgen Klopp4’ who is next to replace Klopp.5’ Does Alonso have the experience?6’ Alonso has earned his stripes, his father was a coach, he has turned down other big jobs.7’ Other options…10’ only 18 months experience.14’ all coaching staff leaving too.15’ Van Dyke also showing signs of coming to end..?17’ He should stay, careful about too much change too quickly. Disorder and football 21’ violence at the Hawthorns after Wolves scored their second and a referee chased at Port Vale.22’ A sign of increasing disorder, or just the odd idiot?24’ should we be grateful it isn’t as regular as it used to be.26’ you can’t legislate for idiots28’ VAR, there is more anger, we’re seeing this across Europe. It isn’t surprising that referee’s are getting targeted. Maidstone and George Elokobi 31’ Mich McCarthy and George Elokobi love in.34’ George Elokobi modelled much of his management on Mick McCarthy. Much of what he did as a player was on Mick’s recommendation.36’ he’s built a team where they are all a little bit like a Mick McCarthy team38’ all about effort, never give up, energy, spirit, give it all. Rashford 42’ There is something behind the scenes, we don’t know what yet. Ten Hagg, clearly not happy about something.44’ If he has done things wrong he has to own it and then change it.47’ Is he unhappy, distracted or uncomfortable?48’ don’t rush to judge Joao Pedro 49’ Is he going to be the next big signing to leave Brighton. De Zerbi thinks so.51’ Hard to place the type of player he is. He is Brighton’s record signing.52’ He is improving under De Zerbi. Burnley… 53’ Alyson’s biggest fear at the start of the season has proved true – commitment to nice style of play. Is that changing ?54’ are we finally seeing some pragmatism.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No signings in the window but Beyonce makes Spurs rich Tom Clarke is joined by Gregor Robertson and Martin Samuel for more football discussion and a crash course in Beyonce lyrics.First off, the team look back at a very positive performance for Chelsea in the league cup. Do they now have a cutting edge and are some of their big signings starting to gel? Liverpool are progressing without Mo Salah, but opinion is still split on Darwin Nunez.The transfer window has been a damp squib, Martin has a theory as to why.After the break Tom goes Beyonce crazy as he looks at the role the megastar played in making Spurs London’s richest club. What does the Spurs model mean for teams like Chelsea and Newcastle and how they monetize their football clubs?We finish with a long FA cup weekend, are there shocks anymore…?Timesline:Chelsea triumph2’ there is a good team at Chelsea trying to get out. Now they’re in a final.3’ Chelsea are more organised, and have plenty of confidence players. Its growing now. Pace in the team.4’ but they lack a centre forward and Tiago at 39 is thill their best defender.6’ Too reliant on full backs – Chilwell and James. Should Poch have a better plan b7’ Winning the final could be a springboard. Only two players left from the Chelsea Champions league team.Liverpool and Salah8’ Salah’s loss is big but can be absorbed.10’ Liverpool’s youngsters all doing well. Entering a winning team helps.12’ Great collection of forward players15’ Nunez, Gregor still not convinced. Transfer window21’ the ten point deductions have scared clubs into not signing anyone.23’ Why do we have a transfer window. The restriction doesn’t apply in any other business.27’ Should you be able to buy your way out of trouble? Is that why the window exists…28’ Profit and sustainability rules are pushing teams to do much of their business in the summer. Richest clubs and finance models32’ They’ve done so without winning anything. Proof of modern football thinking.33’ Financial success not built on sporting success. Built on good business planning.33’ All done by monetizing the stadium.34’ Very modern success story. Comparison to Chelsea who fall behind every match day.All returns to profit and sustainability rules. Newcastle now busy tryign to maximise every aspect of the club.36’ Spurs stadium cost 1 billion, not everyone can do that. It should be good!38’ This affects on pitch. Because higher revenues allow clubs to spend more on players.38’ Newcastle a long way off, not built a following outside on Newcastle.39’ Should Newcastle consider naming rights on their stadium?39’ Newcastle ideal owner was mike Ashley, he ran it as an accountant.. Ashley was great re P and S rules. But awful for football. FA Cup46’ All the fixtures spread out. Best two games on Friday night.Chelsea Villa the stand out.47’ Only four games on Saturday. 52’ lamenting of teams outside the top division not featuring in finals  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregor Robertson and Alyson Rudd join Tom Clarke for Monday’s edition of The Game.Four games and four talking points from the weekend’s fixtures. A statement win from Liverpool against in form Bournemouth and two strikers hit form in Jota and Nunez. Are the reds capable of winning the title?At Bramall Lane the tail of two penalties, one that was and one that wasn’t but which way round was it? And do we need an orange card?Arsenal returned with a bang, they’re the set piece kings but will they need more than that to stay in the title race.Finally, Ivan Toney returned amid great fan fare but more than lived up to his billing.  Timeline:Bournemouth v Liverpool4’ Liverpool were clinical. Young players stepped up.5’ still not convinced on Nunez. Will he do it consistently? 6’ Liverpool have a character and mentality of scoring, wildness, 7’ not much control but swashbuckling, front foot attacking. Unstable but gets results.8’ Klopp’s half time changes and in game changes are very effective and exciting.10’ Klopp seems happy and creative again. Generating excitement after 8yrs at a club, not easy.11’ Klopp likes to promote younger academy players; he seems to trust them.15’ improvement from Bournemouth but just not the cutting edge.17’ Title chances… Sheff Utd v West Ham18’ Brewsters red card…was it or wasn’t it?20’ Does ‘getting in the refs ear’ make any difference?24’  The mystery penalty…where was the foul?26’ Hard to see a foul from Ariola, similarly at the other end, not obvious, Bowen was six of one half a dozen of the other.29’ looking grim for Sheff Utd. Wilder has had an effect but not quite managing to turn draws into wins. 31’ Sheff Utd don’t play with fatalism, they play with fearlessness, energy and camaraderie.33’ Tight at the bottom. Forest look like a team who could take a points deduction and survive. Sheff Utd will get better. Arsenal v Palace35’ Arsenal have best record from set pieces in Premier League.36’ level of detail in set piece coaching, almost like a dance routine. Almost a different coach for set pieces.37’ a lot of the time it is about blocking. 38’ are the blocks technically fouls? Fouls and counter fouls going back and forth.41’ But is it enough to keep arsenal in the title race. If they are starved of set pieces will they be bale to score?43’ Lacking creativity, especially centrally. Not hectic but more structured and as a result predictable…?44’ Is it still a three-team title race?45’ Arsenal not hit their stride, yet they are still right in the title race.  Brentford v Nottingham Forest46’ Ivan Toney has great self-confidence.47’ Gregor played with Toney as a 17 year old. Mentality, confidence and belief.50’ to cope with all the noise around his return and still play well. Shows and elite mindset. 51’ He visualised it all happening.53’ The power of the mind. He said all the things  he would do and he is doing them.54’ Thomas Frank deserves credit for the way he has handled Toney.59’ how many mangers would have sanctioned an enormous bill board and gardy promo? But they trusted Toney and knew he was ready.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke is joined by Martin Samuel, Gregor Robertson and Jonathan Northcroft to discuss Premier League punishments, Ivan Toney's return and Jose Mourinho's Roma sacking. With Everton and Nottingham Forest facing potential points deductions (Everton for the second time this season), the panel assess the rules and debate whether the possible punishments are justified. Ivan Toney could make his footballing return on Saturday. So, what's he been up to for the last 10 months? Plus, José Mourinho's made a teary-eyed exit after being sacked as Roma's manager. What comes next, only José knows. Points deductions for Everton and Forest?3' Are profit and sustainability rules fit for purpose? 6' Are the punishments too harsh? 12' Have Nottingham Forest been careless in their spending?15' Should we have sympathy for the clubs who have complied with the rules?18' Is it a problem for football that very rich men chase a dream in football?19' How do we keep competitive balance without such rules? 21' Why haven't clubs outside the big six voted to get rid of the rules? 26' What about how long these investigations are taking? 28' Solutions? An independent regulator? More power for the Football League/Premier League? Ivan Toney:41' What has Ivan Toney been up to since his ban came in? 45' Is Toney the second best striker in the Premier League?46' What do Brentford do? Keep, sell or something else? 48' Is he in good contention for the England Euros squad?Jose Mourinho:52' Where are we at with Jose Mourinho now?55' Has modern football passed Mourinho by?59' Does he need to rebrand?61' What about an international job? Or Saudi Arabia? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Dickinson, Alyson Rudd and Gregor Robertson join Tom Clarke to discuss Sir Jim Ratcliffe's plan of action, why Reading fan's invaded the pitch and what spooked Alyson over the weekend. Matt Dickinson gives an in-depth insight into what Manchester United's new 25% owner should be prioritising once he's got his feet under the table. Now Kevin De Bruyne has returned (and immediately delivered), will City run away with the Premier League title? There were chaotic scenes at The Madejski Stadium at the weekend. Gregor gives his take on events. And what 'unnerving' event did Alyson experience in the Stamford Bridge Press box? Timeline: Man United2' Did we learn more about Tottenham or United from Sunday's draw at Old Trafford? 4' How impressive have Spurs been this season? 6' Does the club stop any personality from doing what Ange Postecoglou has done at Spurs, at United? 10' What is Sir Jim Ratcliffe like as a person? 13' Is there a sense of fandom for Ratcliffe? Or strictly business? 15' Is 25% ownership enough for Ratcliffe? 17' For the Glazers, Man United became a commercial operation with a football club attached19' How much money will Man United be spending? 20' Will Sir Dave Brailsford be involved in footballing decisions? 22' Where are Man United currently at? Is a total reset needed? 24' What will Sir Jim Ratcliffe's approach to managers be? Clinical, or romantic? 26' What is the priority for Ten Hag after the takeover?28' Will there be any transfer activity in January? Man City v Newcastle 32' Five beautiful goals, but which was the best? 36' Do defenders pay De Bruyne too much respect? And what position will he play?42' Will City now run away with the league now De Bruyne is back?43' Does Newcastle's downturn in form signal the end for Eddie Howe? England job for Howe?Reading46' What's the background to the protests we saw over the weekend? 49' Do the panel condone the protests?Chelsea v Fulham53' A nonevent derby, with a poor atmosphere and poor performances?55' What's Pochettino's mood like? Any fear about his position?57' Alyson's 'Unnerving' encounter at Stamford Bridge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregor Robertson, Martin Samuel and Tony Cascarino join Tom Clarke for the Thurs edition of The Game. Is Mauricio Pochettino under pressure at Chelsea? After a loss to championship side Middlesborough in the first leg of the league cup semi final and indifferent league form, will the owner demand more after spending a billion pounds? Liverpool won again, with two youngster shining in Curtis jones and Conor Bradley. Could Jones make the England squad. After the break, how much does FFP affect January transfers; where will Mbappe end up an will Werner and Sancho be good signings?Timeline:2’ BeckenbauerChelsea4’ Poch under pressure. After a loss to Middlesborough, where next?5’ Lots of quality, not much spirit. Not clinical, they’re an easy team to play against.7’ look soft, no edge but they’ll probably still beat Middlesborough.8’ They’d be mad to get rid of Poch. Who is out there that is guaranteed to do better?11’ You can’t keep sacking managers every six months.12’ This is a big month for Poch. Both cups, and key league games. How January goes could affect the mood music, rightly or wrongly.16’ If not Poch then who. Owners must have one eye on that. Review at the end of the season seems likely.17’ They had a good manager, and they sacked him – Thomas Tuchel.20’ Owners are erratic and at times irrational.22’ Are any of the strikers they have bought good enough?24’ Top eight team at best, don’t look like they’ll go on a run.Liverpool27’ Conor Bradly and Curtis Jones shone. Jones now looks a really good midfielder.30’ Brady has bundles of energy.31’ Curtis Jones looks like a very live England chance. Gregor not so sure.Transfers…Mbappe, FFP and Timo Werner34’ Why aren’t more teams looking at Mbappe? FFP restricts what teams can do.36’ Gregor wants Mbappe, but not unfettered spending.37’ Premier league already getting less competitive, if rich teams are allowed to spend unfettered, it will make it worse.43’ Rules in place are currently inhibiting teams from getting the best players. But some would prefer the premier league slip a little at the benefit of the wider football pyramid.46’ Werner will get chances at Spurs, and Postecoglou might get the best out of him.50’ He’s only 27, it could be a redemption story.51’ His numbers are not that bad, he is involved, he assists and contributes.52’ Sancho likely to return to Dortmund. What went wrong?55’ Sancho still not off the wage bill. Could a new manager pull him back to Old Trafford?57’ He’s already made some brave decisions in his career. Is this another one?59’ does he have the potential to be truly world class?61’ lots of players at United are underperforming, is it related to style of play?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregor Robertson, Alyson Rudd and Martin Hardy join Tom Clarke to discuss why Arsenal are stumbling, who paid for the Newcastle beers and if we should re-record the whole podcast.First up Arsenal’s blunt strike force, do they have the answer or do they need to buy. A character building win for Liverpool, but do either team have enough to trouble Man City in the league. Martin Hardy reflects on an important result for Newcastle and Eddie Howe, and the difference a weeks rest made. For Sunderland it was a week to forget.Finally, to replay or not to replay? It depends on who you ask, Gregor has little sympathy for elite teams setting the agenda for all of the football pyramid. Timeline:Arsenal v Liverpool2’ Are wheels coming off Arsenal. Arteta has referenced a mental block around scoring.4’ Arsenal should have bought a top class forward. Their current strikers are not top class.5’ Are there as many top class forwards in the premier league now?6’ Havertz a box crasher.8’ Should Arteta be speaking out? Where will goals come from?9’ Liverpool looked good. Still lacked a clinical edge though, but more resilience.11’ Liverpool are a different side second half in most games. So many goals after 75mins.13’ Both teams good, but are either good enough to finish above Man City?14’ Nunez a handful but will he win you a title?Wear Tyne derby16’ crazy derby stories, ghosts, Di Canio, horses and graffiti. 19’ Sunderland were not ready for the occasion.21’ Odd tactical choice by Michael Beale.22’ Newcastle looked like they had had a weeks rest 24’ Why play out from the back against a team who love to press.25’ Tripper looked back. Springboard for the rest of the season, injuries returning.27’ Very important win for Eddie howe and Newcastle. Weekend highlights31’ Maidstone, penalty saves, away followings and Patrick Bamford’s worldie.Replays35’ Good idea of not? 36’ Removal of a replay might create teams who play for penalties. It used to be three replay’s37’ Replay’s look likely to be dropped.40’ We shouldn’t be changing the calendar for 16 elite teams.42’ Replays are great for teams seeking revenue and hope. They’re not for big teams seeking a break.43’ The problem highlights the vast financial differences between all the levels of football.48’ Given the money on offer for one extra point in the premier league, do cups matter anymore?50’ “Domestic football should not be shaped in the image of 6 to 8 rich elite owners.”Transfers53’ Where should Henderson or Mbappe go?   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's a Happy New Year from Jonathan Northcroft, Martin Samuel and Gregor Robertson as they join Tom Clarke for the first 2024 edition of The Game.It was a new year to forget for Wayne Rooney, another example of the golden generation failing in the managerial world. What is the difference between a manager and a coach and is it the same game in the Champions League or League One?   A look back at a thrilling Christmas and New Year, which young manager topped the table of festive fixtures? Finally, it’s not FA cup weekend, its FA cup week and there are some top ties to look forward to. Timeline:Rooney2’ Rooney sacked at Birmingham, shocked and a reality check?5’ took over a club doing well, a manager well liked by fans and players. 6’ he was appointed to change a culture and direction of club…can you do that in 15 matches? Gary Cook, odd decision.8’ he was employed to take them to prem league11’ Was Rooney set up to fail. After two games the crowd turned, but tat was because of the loss of John Eustace.13’ Calling out players after only 3 games, not a good idea.17’ he admires Guardiola. But he thrived with Liam Rosenior19’ Rooney could be a manager as much as a coach. He is good with people. 21’ Vale park on a Tuesday night isn’t the Nou Camp on a champions league night. 25’ surrounded himself by young ambitious but not very experienced coaching staff. 27’ Rooney doesn’t want special treatment, he will try to reinvent himself.31’ difference between playing and managing.33’ He’ll be back. Title race36’ Great festive period for Wolves and Gary O’Neil37’ Man City return only two adrift and with the fire back. And unaffected by AFCON.38’ Liverpool in great shape but about to lose salah.40’ What’s gone wrong at Arsenal? Hard to win your first title.43’ Villa have bounced back, but are they starting to look tired?45’ all the top teams have flaws this year. Open title race. West Ham, Wolves and Luton45’ Looks like Moye will get a new contract. Is peace breaking out at the London stadium?47’ Wrong that one fixture has moved beyond the AFCON cut off date.48’ Great back to back wins for Hatters. Ross Barkley pulling strings, adjusting to the league.  FA Cup 53’ Sunderland v Newcastle tie of the round. Newcastle look on the knees with no energy. Sunderland with new manager bounce. Could be a big game. 56’ Is Eddie Howe under pressure?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Christmas spirit is alive and well as Alyson Rudd, Gregor Robertson and Molly Hudson dial in from all parts of the country to join Tom Clarke for an assessment of the festive fixture list. An amazing turn around at Old Trafford but seasonal struggles for Villa and Newcastle. Nuno has made a good start at Forest and Luton have racked up back to back wins. Who’ll be top on Jan 1st, is Alyson Dom Solanke's lucky charm? Finally, some end of season awards.See you in the new year.Timeline:5’ Christmas quiz questionsMan Utd v Villa7’ Villa gifted it to Utd.10’ Man Utd looked good and played well, despite going two down. Garnacho very threatening.11’ return of Eriksen important. Important for Hojlund to score. All with Ratcliffe watching on.13’ At west Ham Man Utd had been lifeless. They summoned their reserves for Villa.14’ huge relief for Ten Hag. Important result, but will it be enough and is it a turning point.15’ Jim Ratcliffe announcement odd. Naff to own only 25%. Can’t do too much because of FFPNewcastle v Forest22’ Bad run and some shock results for Newcastle. Is it a reality check, a reflection of where they are or just injuries and fatigue?23’ Does Eddie Howe have a target on his back?26’ buoyance lacking, atmosphere suffering, Eddie Howe looks tired.28’ players benefited for a managerial change. Shame for Cooper, but Nuno has had two good performances.30’ Elanga was fabulous and will be important in the future. Should he have stayed at Utd?32’ Nuno really pleased to take the job, lots of potential. Clean slate for players like Joe Worrel35’ Niuno’s Wolves team were good to watch.Bournemouth38’ Dom Solanke pulling up tress, Ally is his good luck charm.42’ Iraola has proved his worth. Topic of the year seems to be managers with strong philosophies.43’ Dom Solanke now knocking on the door of Harry Kane back up, along side Tony, Watkins and Wilson.Luton46’ Great team to watch. Involved in some thrilling matches, played well, even in games they have lost.47’ signings have added quality. Discipline, shape and great work ethic.Liverpool49’ top of the league. But injuries mounting and Salah and endo about to depart for international competition.50’ Klopp good at integrating fringe players. No need for signings.51’ do Liverpool have deepest squad in the league? Elliot, Quensah, Jones all very much part of first team squad. End of year awardsMatch of the year, goal of the year, player of the year.See you in 2024. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan Northcroft, Gregor Robertson and Martin Samuel join Tom Clarke for the final pre-Christmas edition of The Game.First on the agenda is the super league…its back, but will it actually happen? Perhaps the fans will have more power than they realise.Away from a potential super league why were West Ham so lacklustre, is Keiron Trippier fatigued and all change at Nottingham Forest. Who will be top at Christmas, Villa are in with a shout after an exceptional 2023. And finally a Christmas wish for 2024...Merry Christmas one and all, we’ll see you for a Christmas pod on Wed 27rh Dec..Timeline:Super League3’ the super league…so depressing. Making football less competitive. Enriching the richer clubs.5’ can’t exist unless people want it to exist.7’ danger of the rich getting richer at the expense of all football.8’ the model doesn’t offer meritocracy.12’ the revamped champions league looks to be a testing of the water15’ ”to what extent have fans lost control of their clubs to the global market place.”18’ “eternal lust for growth….football doesn’t need more money.”West Ham24’ odd team selection25’ weak semi final line up, three steps from a trophy.26’ Competent, pragmatic manager but a romantic fan base. Tough mix.Newcastle and Trippier30’ Fatigue, confidence, even the best are affected.32’ has he been the same since the confrontation with the fans and Bournemouth?Nottingham Forest39’ Hurling pieces at a board, no plan, no structure. He got lucky with Cooper.41’ Cooper earned the right to see out the season. Instead he’s got more players and out before Christmas.45’ Nuno not a good fit. He likes, small simple. Forest is not that.Villa49’ Will they be top at Christmas. It would underline an extraordinary year for Villa.51’ Villa won’t fall away. They’ve sustained this from for a year. 15 wins at home.52’ Jonny on Emery “You can see when a coach has a club in the palm of his hand.”54’ Martin on Emery “I’m gonna ask for what I want and I’m gonna get what I want.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke is joined by Gregor Robertson, Tom Allnutt and Hamzah Khalique-Loonat.They look at a lamentable game at Anfield, a good result for Utd, a reality check for Liverpool?Arsenal seems to be the only team playing with control, Odegaard is on form and Rice remains imperious. Will it be enough to get them to the title?Aston Villa ground out a win at a tough place to go, but is their keeper the dogs bo**ocks or a sh**house?Lower down the table Everton are on a fantastic run as Dych once again shows his quality - identity, endeavour effectiveness. Forest by contrast look a little lost. **Few technical issues today, sorry. They'll be fixed for Thurs. Timeline:Liverpool v Man Utd2’ a game to forget4’ Consistent with where United are at, stutter, lack of creativity but a valuable well earned point. Reflective of a changed midfield that is energetic and hard working. Better defensive organisation.5’ Kobbie Mainoo, looks exciting, promising but will the expectations mount?6’ lack of creativity and width from Liverpool. 34 shots, but no real danger. Some poor decisions.7’ was this a surprise for Liverpool. They have been lucky in recent games and looked listless at home against Man Utd. Is this the reality dawning?8’ No goals for Nunez in 9 games. Diaz not the same since the incident with his father.9’ But all teams have looked patchy and inconsistent. The only team looking to have control are Arsenal. Arsenal, City and Villa11’ The team look to have control. Their stats are on the up while City and Liverpool are dropping.13’ Jorginho off the pitch providing unity.14’ Martin Odegaard has come into form. Past 6 matches,15’ Declan Rice covering cast areas for Arsenal, gave Odegaard freedom to create. Rice absolutely key to that.17’ Arsenal very good front to back, After a rough spell now well oiled, in defence and attack. Defences wins titles.20’ Arsenal seem to have tunnel vision and appear ready to be champions. Predictable, not exciting, but regular, winning controlled.22’ Ben Mee’s sending off changed the game. But thereafter Villa went for the win, not the draw.23’ A gritty win at a place no one likes to go to. Despite chaos Villa got the three points.24’ VAR inconsistent again. Ben ?Mee should have had a penalty.25’ Why are Villa doing well, the players of the manager? Both.27’ Emery has improved Watkins, Kamara is back from injury. Emery has brought intensity and focus.30’ Nice family man outside of football. But on the pitch stretches ever opportunity to his advantage. Believes he is the best in the world and wants to live up to that.31’ His antics got his own player sent off. West Ham v Wolves35’ Paqueta, Alvarez Bowen and Kudos. Fabulous four. Their creativity won West Ham the game.36’ Free flowing forward line could be the future, but Moyes prefers stable reliable, Antonio. Can he squeeze both in?37’ Conflict still at heart of West Ham. How are they laying, are they committed to Moyes?41’ Will Moyes still be manager next season? Everton, Forest and Burnley46’ What a run for Everton. Classic Sean Dyche, getting best out of players. Finding a system that suits the players and drilling them.47’ Maximising everything at his disposal.48’ Burnley, endeavour, quality but soft centre. Everton ruthless.49’ Kompany not changing his methods, sticking to his principles.50’ Everton play effective football. Its refreshing as it is different to others.53’ Forest are on a bad run, but look a little lost. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke is joined by regulars Martin Samuel and Gregor Robertson and special guest Wally Downes. They look back on the weeks champions league fixtures and the exit of Manchester and Newcastle United from Europe. Were Newcastle naïve to not kill off a game they led in? Did Manchester United even put up a fight? After the break a reflection on Wally’s career in football, from being one of the founders of the crazy gang at Wimbledon through to his time in coaching throughout the leagues. Timeline:Newcastle2’ Newcastle, yes they were good, yes they have progressed. But they still lost.5’ Injuries and fatigue affected them. 7’ May well dip into transfer market.8’ Limitations because of FFP11’ Newcastle are not well known outside of the UK. That creates problems with income.15’ It was nip and tuck, they were unfortunate. They are still ahead of schedule.Man Utd16’ Lost their identity. Buying the wrong players with the wrong attitude.17’ Delusions on grandeur. Needs a sea change a policy change.19’ Anthony given chance after chance. Dan James wasn’t20’ look at the subs, not good enough.22’ Man Utd did well to stay in the game, no chance of winning it.24’ There is desperation now. 26’ Modern football doesn’t suit Man Utd – not as much up and at em’28’ Red flag over Sancho. Arsenal and Man City30’ Both look good. Could draw each other.31’ Final year of the current champions league format Life and Career of Wally Downes35’ Debut for Wimbledon at leatherhead – balled out by his keeper wrestling players and punched the keepers  brother in law.38’ Style of play40’ shuttle runs, fitness and 3 mile runs.42’ not a cake walk to the top. Played on the crazy gang tag.45’ they had very good players and developed good players.47’ “can’t afford to show respect, we’d have got our arses kicked.” Never got cocky.48’ Alan Cork took his boots off…”they’re not crossing to me.”52’ Vinnie Jones story.55’ Coaching style59’ Nothing new under the sun, most tactical analysis is the same as it always was, just a different name. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke has crawled off his sick bed to join Monday regulars Alyson Rudd and Gregor Robertson and special guest Jeff Stelling.After a quick hello to Jeff its on to a brilliant set of matches this weekend. Spurs and Bournemouth are committed to attacking football, no compromise, at the expense of a tired Newcastle and a disjointed Manchester United. Villa are the real deal. Emery has re-ignited Villa park, has strength in depth and has the fans and team united. The same can’t be said of Chelsea and Pochettino.And a great week for Fulham.  Timeline:2’ A big hello to Jeff Stelling. Whistle stop tour of all things Jeff, career, Hartlepool and more Hartlepool.9’ Modern football, access to players, how things have changed.11’ City players in the 70’s used to do a panto for the fas!Spurs v Newcastle12’  Postecoglou stuck to his principles and went for it, all guns blazing. It paid off. Newcastle looked tired, running on fumes.13’ Eddie Howe is already picking youngsters, hard to see what else he can do. Pantomime of a game.14’ Post playing the sort of game expected and welcomed at Spurs. The fans love it, it’s a thrown back to glory glory Tottenham Hotspurs. Newcastle out on their feet. Fans left after the game with no trains – again.17’ As tired as Newcastle are, there is an element of poor form. Can form stem from fatigue. Howe not claiming tiredness as an excuse.Man Utd v Bournemouth19’ Bournemouth turned the corner. Iraola was on the edge now looks genius to appoint and stick with him. 20’ nit many sackings this year.22’ Iraola believes in attacking football. Players now buying into that and starting to gel. Results and confidence are coming.25’ Where do Man Utd stand. Limited plan or vision. Hard to know what the team will produce. 26’ Are players short of confidence or not trying…hard to tell.27’ playing players out of position, lack of clarity. Martial…would he rather be Christmas shopping…Villa v Arsenal29’ Its not hype, Villa are very good. How is Emery doing it?30’ Emery always hard a better than average home record at his clubs. 31’ he is linking fans and the team igniting Villa park and its atmosphere, which is historically a hostile place to go. 32’ Villa were amazing against City, a bit lucky against Arsenal.34’ They play an incredibly high line. The manager improves players.36’ top four more realistic than title winners.37’ Arsenal a bit below par, but unlucky not to have a goal or a penalty in last minute.38’ Club built around Emery and to support.39’ Arsenal not playing as well as last season, but right up there. Bodes well for a serious title tilt, winning when not playing well.41’ could go to the final weekend. Fulham43’ Suddenly found some goals and the results are following.47’ Good players finding confidence.48‘ Palhinha top of the stats each week.ChelseaHow do you spend a billion and look so poor…Too many signings on potential. Rumour has it Poch wants to sign more.Poch was brought ot build a team, gel them together. Doesn’t look like he is doing that yet.Behind the scenes the club is still messy. Poch is hinting at that.Gap between perception and reality.Will Poch be given time?They need results, fast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Thursday club of Tony Cascarino, Gregor Robertson and Martin Samuel join Tom Clarke to discuss a fantastic title race and a pressure mounting in midtable.Villa park was rocking as they extended their unbeaten home run, playing front foot football and bullying the reigning European and Premier league champions. Man City look to be in a mini crisis. Meanwhile Arsenal are a reflection of their big summer signing, Declan Rice – powerful, accomplished and never give up. Rice looks a bargain at 100 million.Forest and Palace are currently mid table, but the fans are not happy. Steve Cooper and Roy Hodgson are feeling the pressure as modern football is showing its about entertainment, not just survival. TimelineVilla2’ Villa, not just top four but serious contenders. Christmas will be key.3’ Emery is a very good manager. Does it reflect more on Arsenal that he didn’t succeed there…?5’ Villa played a high line and battered City7’ Well drilled, pace at full back, front foot full of confidence. Silk and steel.9’ When Villa park is up it is a fabulous place. The feeling around the club is very positive.10’ McGinn outstanding.City12’ Why isn’t Kalvin Philips in the team, is he worse than Akanji in midfield?13’ midfield mismatch – McGinn, Luiz over ran City – Stone and Akanji.15’ Is there something wrogn at City? MArhez, Gundogan both left and very hard to replace.19’ very hard to do it three seasons running.  20’ Very dependant on Rodri and De Bryne.Arsenal23’ Declan Rice. Mentality as much as physical ability. A bargain at 100m 25’ As with Bellingham Rice impacts a game.27’ consummate professional, skilled, improves those around him.Nottingham Forest30’ Things don’t look good for Steve cooper. Chairman left at four nil and his pass was found flung into a nearby garden.31’ But the Forest fans chanted his name in the second half.33’ post match Cooper referenced the unsettled nature of his team.Crystal Palace35’ Hodgson under pressure. Fans want to see better football. Hodgson says the fans are spoilt. 37’ He was lucky last season with the fixtures. This season its proving much harder.39’ Fans not happy with just surviving, they want better football.40’ Not that long ago the conversation around palace was a lot different. Players from the local area, young exciting. Now its gone backwards. 42’ what’s the point of playing to finish 16th. Have a go, have fun.Excitement 50’ Survival isn’t enough. Fans look down the road and think “why aren’t we playing like that?”Moyes may see out his contract, but look at Bournemouth, Spurs, Wolves all playing exciting football.Man Utd v Chelsea54’ Good win, but it was the worst Chelsea team in a long time. Kept giving the ball to Utd.55’ Chelsea haven’t put in one 90min performance.57’ they’ve shipped out experience and bought potential, but not established.59’ they won’t be a top six team. Look at their bench last night.61’ Utd created lots of chances and things looked better. Only three of top four. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke is back fresh as a daisy from his holidays, and he is joined by Charlotte Duncker, Tony Cascarino and Gregor Robertson to review the weekend’s goal fest.Are standards slipping at City or were Spurs brilliant. Trent Alexander Arnold was outstanding, and he was everywhere, does it matter what his starting position is. All change at Sheffield United as Paul Heckingbottom bows out after a five nil defeat at Burnley. Chris Wilder is back, but with the current owners is the Bramall Lane job a poisoned chalice.Plus big wins for Burnley and Everton and some boos for Steve Cooper. City v Spurs2’ Problems for City or brilliant spurs5’ drop off in defending, standards not the same. Injuries are key – Stones, De Bryne.9’ three games back to back with things to worry about and lack of control. Very un-City like.11’ Spur were brave, clever and relentless. But could they have even won if they had tailored their approach just a bit?13’ all or nothing under Postecoglou. Arsenal 15’ Rice adds resilience and stability. More pragmatic.17’ Learning from previous seasons. Have a stronger squad this season. Liverpool and Fulham19’ Trent AA outstanding. Should he just play in midfield. Teams exploiting the space he leaves though.21’ Down to bones defensively, Matip and Robertson out for some time.22’ TAA is a generational talent. How many players can do what he can do. But what is his role?25’ Does it matter if he has a position. Do Liverpool have an alternate right back?27’ Fulham lacking a bit of edge but played well. Similar to last season, need to strengthen. Still nearly men. Villa29’ Over achieving, but now with champions league aspirations.30’ Emery doing it with effectively the same squad Gerrard had. It is now Emery’s club, his staff, his set up. Involved in everything and working very well. But will they make top four.  Sheffield United 34’ Paul Heckingbottom out, Chris Wilder back in.35’ coming into a a club up for sale, in need of players and a team dispirited.36’ owners are a real problem. 37’ Why would wilder go back to such a mess? 15 fit players before the season started.40’ Owner admitted to being in touch with wilder all season, unfair on Heckingbottom.44’ no chance of staying up. Owners fault, not Paul Heckingbottom. Burnley 45’ Finally some relief for Kompany. Will this be the spark?46’ Confidence yes, but turnaround, not sure. Look at who they beat…48’ They have been the better team in many of their games, but to open to hang on. Does Kompany need to temper his principles a bit? Forest51’ first boos for Steve Cooper at the City ground. Are fans starting to doubt him?53’ leading striker out till new year. Replacements not up to same level. No shot on goal until 31st minute.55’ next two games make or break for Cooper. Results need to improve.57’ Everton created lots of chances. Chris Wood right up the street of Everton centre halves. Needed a different approach.59’ Everton comfortable. But game lacked quality. Everton good enough to pull away, even with a ten point deduction.60’ But Calvert Lewin injured again. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Martin Samuel, James Gheerbrant and Jonathan Northcroft join Gregor Robertson for the Thursday edition of The Game.Manchester United once again take centre stage. Free scoring, but also conceding freely too and dropping a two goal lead twice in Türkiye.  Arsenal in contrast are less expansive than last year but more defensively solid, they’re also top of their group and top of the Premier League…can they possibly be under the radar?Newcastle suffered at the hands of VAR and the team finish by discussing the attempts being made to attract more ex-players into helping VAR officiating.  A bonus section includes Martin Samuel giving his fascinating memories of Terry Venables TimelineMan Utd2’ Scoring freely away from home, but conceding just as easily.6’ Bruno Fernandes and Onana8’ A poorly set up team, too stretched. Everton game was a warning sign. Everton had tons of shots.10’ United have gone backwards this season, if you look at performance not result. Emotionally unstable as a team.14’ players have to manage games, less flash and volatility. More steel sense and game management.Newcastle21’ ludicrous decision. But Eddie Howe’s reaction has been fantastic. 23’ Group still wide open, anything could happen.24’ Eddie Howe has done a remarkable job25’ the differing interpretation of the handball law between UEFA and all domestic league. Not a sustainable position.28’ how can there be ‘a version’ of the rules…? Arsenal 31’ what happened to boring boring Arsenal? 33’ are Arsenal under the radar. Top of the league and through as top of their Champions league group. Very effective.35’ Rice outstanding, allows others to play. Used to be very exciting, second most goals per game last season. This season much further down, but seemingly more managed, secure.38’ Declan Rice is rhythm guitar, and he is essential and really good.41’ Arsenal have bounced back two season running after disappoint/frustrating ends to the previous season. Refereeing 44’ How to overcome the accusation of bias if you’re seeking ex pros to be referees.47’ more trust required. Ex pros have a lot to offer.53’ something needs to change and probably will. It is now to regular.55’ economically not viable to be a referee, takes a long time to qualify and doesn’t pay a lot. For ex players that will be problematic.59’ can we ever foresee a top player officiating and not being called biased.1hr it works in cricket. Terry VenablesWhy did he leave England… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tony Cascarino, Alyson Rudd and Tom Allnutt join Gregor Robertson on the Monday edition of The Game. The team pay tribute to Terry Venables and reflect on his eclectic range of interests outside the game and his tactical ability as a coach.Reflecting on the weekends fixtures they look at the tactical battle at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium, Man Utd have won five in six and are two off the top four. At the bottom, Everton’s belief and frustration couldn’t get a result, whereas Luton showed they never give up.What will be the difference in making the top four or avoiding relegation? TimelineVenables memories2’ A remarkable man who did so many things outside of football. Busi9ness, singing, tailor, bought a club…sold Maradona and bought Archibald.4’ edit neil and tony.5’ shrewd, negotiator, charismatic, loved football. Tactically ahead of his time.7’ Loved in Spain, tactically respected. A Penalty shootout away from winning the European cup with Barca.9’ Embodied Tottenham.Tottenham v Villa10’ Spurs opened very well. Unlucky not to be further ahead. Fair result could have been a draw.12’ the offside derby, two teams playing a high line.14’ Villa applied the break more often, spurs remained gung ho and paid for it.15’ intriguing game. No compromise by either team. Good decisions by Emry, taking cash off, getting Teilemons on. Demonstrates the level of management in the premier league.19’ Villa right in shake up for top four. But spurs heavily hit by injuries and suspensions.Everton v Man Utd21’ Not in the script for Everton to be hit by a wonder goal.23’ where did Garnacho’s goal rank? Great goal, how important was it?27’ Bergkamp, Adam, Crouch, Bergkamp again…29’ Utd, fifth win in six games. Only two off top four.32’ Everton now have a BIG job to avoid relegation. Luton v Palace36’ Lift off at Luton. Performances starting to get results.38’ Fit team, heads don’t drop. Not capitulated in any game. Great self belief.39’ Place facing injury problems to key players. Could they get sucked in?40’ Injuries came at key time in the game. Hodgson has defensive know how. Newcastle v Chelsea48’ Is Tiago Silva starting to show his age? At 39 are the years catching up?50’ Backward step for Chelsea and Poch. First time he has called out his players.52’ Anthony Gordon gave Reece James a torrid time. City v Liverpool55’ there for city to win, they missed the chance.56’ Good result for Liverpool, a point at City, how can you grumble? ArsenalTop and under the radar.Brentford not at their best.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregor Robertson is joined by Jonathan Northcroft, Tony Cascarino and Martin Samuel for heated discussion on the murky world of football finance and governance. As Everton face a ten point deduction for breaching profit and sustainability rules, the team ask, does the punishment fit the crime? The answer is a resounding no! But why is that, is it a level playing field and what are the wider implications for clubs such as Manchester City and Chelsea. After a quick look at the vote on multi club ownership models finally some actual football and a look ahead to the big game at the weekend, as Manchester City take on Liverpool.Timeline2’ internationals. Learnt nothing from England. But Italy Ukraine…a shocking decision and Martin thinks something stinks.4’ Head of UEFA said Italy not qualifying would be a disaster. Why are officials saying who they want to progress.Everton points deduction8’ The facts, what were Everton penalised for?10’ FFP is a construct of the riches clubs to keep the status quo. 12’ no such thing as organic growth because the best teams cherry pick the best players from smaller clubs. Inward investment to beat that system should not be punished.15’ Everton have had a go and have been punished.18’ why are the rules there, are they doing what they are supposed to do?20’ the commission agreed it wasn’t an attempt to cheat, just poor management, but without danger to the club. The punishment doesn’t fit the crime. 21’ the commission portrayed Everton as ‘continually reckless.’22’ Premier league stopped working with Everton, why?24’ will there be, or should there be an independent regulator.27’ What is the alternative? Unfettered spending, so long as it isn’t based on debt.29’ is this punishment going to kill the under dog story? An arbitrary construct. 33’ We want two things in football, clubs not going into debt and going bust and healthy competition.35’ Man City charges…being bogged down by expensive lawyers.  38’ pick a team of lawyers because they’ll decide who wins what, but they’ll do it in five years time.41’ City charges.Vote to NOT ban signing players from associated clubs49’ similar issue and touches on self regulation. 52’ need a robust set of loan regulations.Historic agent issues58’ The FA are looking into a breach from 2008 when Jermaine Defoe left Portsmouth to go to Spurs.City v Liverpool 1’02’ Every player who has come in to the midfield has been an upgrade. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a special episode of The Game Tom Clarke is joined by regulars Gregor Robertson and Jonathan Northcroft as they speak to special guest Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu about his life and career.Pelly is the first player to play for the same club from the national league through to the Premier league. Following ten years at the club, he is now mentioned alongside Luton legend Mick Hartford and has a mural, song and type of honey all created in his honour.On the pitch he has played under an England manager and in a Wembley final. This is a chance to hear more from one club man Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu. Timeline:2’ start of career. Belmont and Boreham Wood.6’ West Ham and playing for Allardyce.8’ Dec 2013…on loan to Luton. Shock compared to Luton and Boreham Wood.10’ John Still 100 goals and hundred points.11’ Debut at Staines in the cup. Playing out of position at centre half.18’ injuries and adjusting to the demands of regular league football.21’ Nathan Jones. Great guy spoke a really good game, good tactically. Great use of data.22’ Near misses and promotion to league one.28’ Tough first season in the championship. Manager coming and going. The return of Nathan Jones.30’ Footballers during covid.33’ Nathan Jones leaves again. Pelly stays…why?38’ loyalty to Luton and the opportunities they have given him. 40’ fairy tales…getting to the premier league.41’ What’s the difference in the premier league.45’ difference between levels. League one, championship, premiership. In the prem ever chance is taken.48’ the fans don’t change50’ I think I’m a good player actually.Reflection on promotion season and the arrival of Rob Edwards.55’ Wembley and nerves who do you celebrate with. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Gheerbrant, Jonathan Northcroft and Gregor Robertson join tom Clarke to give VAR a grilling.Does the mic’d up programme help or hinder the case for VAR in games? The team look at issues around how subjective football is, how effective current VAR is and are there other, better options to use the technology? After an inconclusive but heated debate it’s on to England’s midfield.Bellingham and Rice seem certain starters, but who plays alongside them? Do England have a defensive midfielder, and if not, who plays instead?Finally, Jonny recently voted in a poll asking who are currently the world’s best players…he names his top five. TimelineVAR2’ VAR, are the audio releases helping or hindering 4’ Pain is not worth the gain. It is a really difficult job, but it has become farcical.8’ Running VAR can be exhausting, in the spotlight, no clear right and wrong, walking a tightropePossible clips 11’ the number and detail of incidents can’t be assessed in the time allowed. 15’ modern mania to achieve perfection…in a subjective sport.17’ timing is an issue; it takes too long the flow of the game has been affected.20’ Has the mic’d up programme improved things or further mudded the waters. 22’ sin bins. Good idea or not?  Keeping refs mics on would stop player dissent quickly. 26’ do players influence VAR by appealing and asking refs to check things.  England midfield 31’ who plays alongside Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham.33’ the chemistry of the three is important. Southgate prizes control over everything else. Gregor thinks still Philips.35’ can’t pick Philips or Henderson because of lack of top flight football.37’ Trent Alexander is the answer according to Jonny.40’ James, consider Connor Gallagher.45’ stones, Rico Lewis, Foden Maddison. Jonny think whoever Jude wants Keep Bellingham happy. Best players in the world 49’ Jonny voted for worlds best players. Hard to over look Premier league and England players. Haland, Rodri, Kane, Bellingham.55’ Kane now getting the coverage he deserves. 57’ Messi still the man. What about defenders??  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alyson Rudd, Gregor Robertson and Tony Cascarino join Tom Clarke to discuss the weekend’s games. And what a weekend of fixtures, 37 goals, the top five separated by three points and last minute winners.Stamford Bridge saw one of the games of the season so far. What stood out, team performance or individual brilliance? At Molineux Wolves mounted a stoppage time come back to stun spurs, who have now lost twice in a week and dropped to fourth. Hot on their heels and only three off the top at Villa after yet another convincing home win, led by a very impressive John McGinn. Plus West Ham, Liverpool and Everton.  TimelineChelsea and City3’ great game at the bridge.4’ Raheem Sterling, fantastic performance. How can he not be in the England squad.7’ Is it turning for Poch, all the signings and stars starting to come good?9’ Chelsea were very good, but can they replicate it.12’ what is to come from Chelsea, very exciting, to play that well and still be a work in progress. Chelsea fans are excited.15’ Poch says team should be in top four, that’s is the expectation. Young players now coming good.18’ Are City at their best? Probably not but they still scored 4 away from home. And with no De Bryne.20’ if City don’t win the title, who could? Liverpool seems to be the consensus. 23’ City still have best squad and know how to win. When its crunch time they get better.West Ham25’ Moyes development and blending old with new. Ward-Prowse on song. Lots of flare and creativity in the West Ham team now.28’ Gregor a little less convinced. Team reliant on moments of brilliance from players not team identity or playing patterns. But still achieving and deserve credit. Is there a next step to take…Newcastle and Bournemouth32’ Poor result for Newcastle, and a tough day for Trippier.33’ Alyson thinks the fans have become a bit entitled.38’ Team are ravaged by injury, they tried very hard. Fans should see that. Look how far they have come.40’ Well played Bournemouth.Wolves Spurs44’ Wolves a well drilled, well coached, well organised team. With key players playing well. When they win the ball, they know what to do with it. For spells they outplayed Spurs.46’ Spurs need certain type of player in key positions, with both centre halves out it makes a big difference.47’ Fantastic coaching from the sideline by Gary Oneil. Spurs wiped out by injuries and suspension.Top four…50’ Who‘ll make it? Seems there is confidence in Villa making it…Villa53’ Villa Park is a great place to watch football. Tactically intelligent, versatile. They have control, pace and interchange. Gregor VERY impressed with Villa.John McGinn is the poster boy for a fantastic team. Gregor loves his bum, its big and he uses it as a weapon.Everton58’ Dyche working magic. Team have momentum, getting goals and have the third best away record in the league.1;00” Goals coming from places other than Calvert Lewin.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Thurs team of Martin Samuel, Tony Cascarino and Gregor Robertson join Tom Clarke to discuss one thing…VAR. With two thrilling games and twelve goals between them the Man Utd v Copenhagen and Spurs v Chelsea games were dominated by VAR. Is it inevitable, will it change or will football adapt to a brave new world? Discuss… TimelineVAR and Man Utd10’ is football and footballers now going to change.12’ how do you police a subjective game played in milliseconds.16’ the difference in officiating and the interpretation of rules.22’ Positives for Man United despite losing the game. 26’ Copenhagen not a good team, don’t get carried away.34’ All to random at Man U. Performances are fracturedVAR and Chelsea Spurs38’ Romero red card…41’ Intent or not intent. How to define it.47’ Offside, Jackson had a yard start, but it was phase two. Is that fair? Martin thinks the rules are nonsense. Active or inactive.51’ We’re talking about VAR, not about football.58’ Ange and his brave…or crazy tactics. High line with nine men. Amazing spectacle, but not sure if it was the best approach. 59’ Glorious failure. They lost but they lost player to their philosophy.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Monday regulars Gregor Robertson and Alyson Rudd join Tom Allnutt and Tom Clarke for The Game.The team look at good wins for Sheffield Utd and Forest and a point for Luton. But what about the performances, was it luck or are there positives to build on? Erik Ten Hag got a win to take the pressure off, but again, what of the performance.Disappointing weekends for Villa and Liverpool, but it was the post match reaction of Mikel Arteta that took most of the headlines. Is the pressure telling so soon into the season?Finally a look at the end of an era as Emma Hayes announces her departure from Chelsea. Where next for the most well known of the WSL managers…?Timeline:Sheff Utd2’ Great win for Sheff Utd. Will it stop the rumours of Chris Wilder waiting in the wings to replace Paul Heckingbottom.5’ Soft pen, and truth be told Sheff Utd are still not a great team.7’ how do Sheff Utd play from here on out?10’ Does this win turn around the narrative of the bottom being the three promoted clubs plus Bournemouth being in a relegation scrap.14’ Wolves still struggling in front of goal and heavily reliant on Neto. But they played well, just a little unlucky,Forest 16’ Impressive from Forest, demonstrates togetherness, mental strength and work rate.17’ Cloud still hanging over Steve Cooper as the owners put pressure on. Forest did a great job of exploiting Villa’s high line.20’ Forest under Cooper have a really solid structure. Play as a unit, fight for each other. According to opta, not a settled side though.23’ Gregor still worried for Steve Cooper. Thinks the owners still want change. Not a good environment for cooper, hard to stabilise.24’ Villa looked flat, never looked threatening. Didn’t take chances.Man Utd29’ Alyson thinks Ten Hag is too passive, in press and on touch line. Unimpressive. Fulham the better side. But a win is a win, after the goal and players and fans showed unity.32’ Why did he start Anthony? BREAKLuton36’ Kenilworth Road finally showed its worth. Luton played brilliantly, organised, waited then went for it.39’ Luton showed composure. Doughty, Barkley great. Nunez, active but missing sitters.42’ Stuck to their principles, showed how they want to play.Liverpool44’ Nunez, a handful works hard, but lacks composure, missed the key chances.45’ No sign of complacency. Luis Diaz moving. Well handled by Klopp.Arsenal47’ Havertz should have been red, or orange carded.48’ The best teams take the sting out of these kind of games. Arteta didn’t. Tried to battle it out with Newcastle. Poor choice. Areta’s emotional state didn’t help.51’ VAR decisions a mess. Pressure on officials, lack of suitable technology and lag from past bad decisions.54’ no need to do it, sign of weakness from Areta, unnecessary stress. Arsenal missed Odeguaard badly.58’ Has the goal keeping decision backfired.Newcastle1hr Were fantastic. Deserved the win. Played superbly. Better still the reflection on Eddie howe. Playing with a team full of players signed by others but he has improved them all.Emma Hayes1;01 End of an era. What next, could she, would she take the USA job? Why not England? Possesses a huge desire to grown and learn. Said many years ago she didn’t want the England job….have the FA missed out? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 The regular Thursday club of Martin Samuel, Tony Cascarino and Gregor Robertson join Tom Clarke.Déjà vu as Man Utd are once again the main talking point. Is Erik ten Hag now under pressure, a team with no identity, players under performing and a poor attitude. When does the spot light fall on the manager.Saudi were given the 2034 world cup with little fan fare and no celebration.  What does it mean for football…a battle between UEFA and FIFA? Will the Saudi’s be threatening    Man Utd2’ Ten Hag surely now he is under pressure? Fate depends on when Jim Ratcliffe arrives.6’ no players performing, as proven by the fact no one wants to buy any Man Utd players.8’ can’t keep mentioning the club, at some point its about what the manager does10’ has he improved any players?13’ no team identity16’ it’s a massive mess. But at some point the manager should do the basics, but they weren’t there last night.19’ manager stays until new owners come in. 23’ Will good players get sucked down the same path.24’ Rashford going out after the City defeat 26’ Tony worked with Don howe, who helped keep him on the straight and narrow. Less going out, better focus.31’ perception is everythingSaudi world cup36’ it was always going to happen. It is now sad acceptance. Money talks.38’ No federations have complained. There is a difference between world cup and Saudi owners. One is governing body, public property and one is private business.41’ FIFA is no structured in such a way that UEFA is irrelevant. Infantino has the other votes locked down…very hard to change. It is a battle between UEFA and FIFA.43’ The only way to challenge it would be to boycott. I high price…would any federation pay it?46’ Isn’t it just about showcasing football in new countries, building the brand, growing the sport?50’ Its taken the Saudi’s 18mnths to get a world cup. They are/will come for club football…what happen next, is the premier league under threat? 52’ the wind has changed and no longer China but Saudi, and UK gov seems happyChelsea v Spurs58’ Chelsea face same problem…can’t score goals. Jackson didn’t actually have a great record at Villa reale…4 in 28 before a streaky run. Not surprising he can’t score regularly at Chelsea.1;01’ Chelsea erratic. Done well against some teams, but inconsistent and lacking any edge. Tony thinks they’re a long way off. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ally Rudd, Gregor Robertson and James Restall join Tom Clarke on Mondays edition of The Game.After reflecting on another one-sided Manchester derby they move on to who can win the title. Spurs fans are dreaming, and Ange is happy they are…but can it last. And what of Liverpool, three off the top, getting better and with players returning to form. After the break a quick look at Calvert Lewin’s form and finally who is the most exciting ever young English player? Gazza, Rooney, Owen, Bellingham? Timeline:Manchester derby2’ Man Utd had average plan A, no plan B.6’ Mason Mount only had 14 touches. No balance in midfield. 9’ Who is at fault, poor signings, signings not performing, or a club with a poor culture.12’ no identity, and doesn’t have the players to create the identity Ten Hag wants.17’ Will Haaland win the Ballon’ D’or. Or is it Mesi all the wayCan they win the league…20’ Can Spurs win the title? They’re adaptable, tough, confident and no longer flakey. Big strong team.  In short, it’s not impossible. 24’ They believe they can win it. That’s half the battle. Son been amazing.28’ outstanding centre halves, decent squad depth. 32’ The coaching improvement is impressive. Liverpool Forest36’ City’s biggest challengers. Very creative midfield, not as reliant on fullbacks.38’ very good signings. Dominik Szoboszlai could be a special player. Firs the club very well.44’ Forest had a tough start, individual mistakes, but Cooper probably happy…for now.44’ Got a good structure, hard to breakdown. A platform to build from.Everton and Calvert Lewin46’ Is he in the fight to be Kane’s understudy?48’ great goal, good for Dyche.49’ Ally met Kenwright.Best ever young English young player55’ Gregor played against Rooney, a shuddering experience. Bellingham will have impact but not the same shocking impact. Others…Owen, Walcott, Gazza.59’ With Kane and Bellingham, can England win the euro’s…  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregor Robertson, Jonathan Northcroft and Martin Samuel join Tom Clarke. They look back at the weeks European fixtures, have things turned around for Manchester United and two of their players in particular Onana and Maguire? Was it a reality check for Newcastle and is Jesus the main man for Arsenal?Gregor went to watch Birmingham, and reflects on Wayne Rooney’s start at St Andrews. The team look at new owners setting unrealistic targets, getting rid of unfashionable managers and how Rooney might react. Finally Martin and Jonny remember Bill Kenwright a toffee through and through.  Timeline:Man Utd – a win but has anything changed.2’ Onana the hero…is he coming good? Does one good game change things?5’ needs to be proved over a period of games. overall performance still not great.7’ what is United’s identity. 10’ These were once assumed wins, now they are celebrated. Relying on players who they were trying to sell a month ago.12’ Parts don’t fit. Sweeper keeper but with slow centre backs. Creativity or industry, not both.19’ character and self-belief in players. Perspective, they’re doing the very basics. Lets see how they do against better teams.Newcastle25’ not quite a reality check, Dortmund are a good side. Hard to play two games a week of such high intensity.27’ Perhaps lacking a little in player experience. Slightly affected by injuries, at that level. There is a reason it took Man City so long to succeed at that level.30’ need to play differently in Europe.31’ Now looking thin – Tonali long ban, Isak, Botman, Murphy and Barnes all injured.  Will they be able to sign anyone given FFP??34’ Jesus injury. Is he the main man for Arsenal, or do they need another striker?Rooney and Birmingham.44’ Rooney’s tough start at St Andrews. Fans not happy, previous manager sacked too early and the team not played well in either of his first two games.46’ the players are not comfortable playing the kind of football he wants to play. Too much too soon. Rooney thinks that might be the case.52’ Rooney not bothered by criticism. But will the fans turn round.54’ far to soon to be turning on him.55’ Are the owners – DC – well equipped to bring success to Birmingham or are they half hearted? They have done a lot of good things, but are they running before they can walk on the football side?58’ Carrying the weight of being a player from ‘the golden generation.’ He has to prove himself.  Bill Kenwright1;03 a fan who ended up at the top of the club. Tried really hard to find a credible buyer. Had a rough time but loved Everton wanted the best for them and tried his hardest.1;05 Nice guy, and true fan. But became a lightening conductor for a fan base who had been let down. But Kenwright didn’t have the money himself, tried to find it with other investors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke is back and joined by Monday regulars Alyson Rudd, Tom Roddy and Gregor Robertson. After paying tribute to the late great Sir Bobby Charlton they look back on a fantastic weekend of football.Villa are flying high and don’t look like stopping. City and arsenal are up there without really playing well. Someone who is playing well is Harry Maguire, a man of the match performance against Sheffield united, but a test awaits next week against City and Haaland.Finally revenge for Gary O’Neil and is Ivan Tony set to leave Brentford.Timeline:1’ Sir Bobby tributesVilla4’ Villa, title contenders? Amazing home record.10’ Emery getting the best out of players already at the club. Ollie Watkins the best example.14’ Villa playing style. Big physical side, with pace.City and United21’ back on track, flying? Not so much according to Gregor. Still time to adjust to losing key players.24’ Has Guardiola lost some control over in’s and out’s26’ Maguire back to his best?27’ United winning but look at who is scoring.32’ Pace of the game has increased, that has affected Maguire.Arsenal Chelsea35’ Positivity for Chelsea. But are they getting an easy ride, should fans be more frustrated at results.38’ Chelsea missing four starters, played good football, the tide is turning.40’ Formation unusual, Poch optimistic.45’ Arsenal, gifted a route back into the game. But they found a way.Wolves Bournemouth48’ Iraola running out of time. Lots of individual mistakes but he needs a win.50’ Need to re asses their style. High press needs to be backed up.52’ Wolves looking great. O’Neil deserves huge credit. Neto and Cunha keyBrentford56’ Were struggling but first home win of the season58’ Faith in Thomas Frank, despite the rough start. Henry injury, Toney out…they’ll get better.60’ Looks like Tony will leave Brentford in Jan, possibly Arsenal.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sancho alone with his lunchbox and can England win the Euros?Gregor Robertson is joined by Martin Samuel, Tony Cascarino and James Gheerbrant.Should England dare to dream…? Martin Samuel thinks they should embrace the expectation that they are one of the favourites to win the European Championships in Germany next year. They look at England’s strength in depth, and particularly the rise of Jude Bellingham, now one of the world’s best players.From one former Borussia Dortmund player to another and the plight of Jadon Sancho. Training with the youngsters, getting changed alone, given his lunch in a club lunchbox. How did it come to this…?Finally, a look at the once sacrosanct Saturday afternoon 3pm kick off. Once upon a time never televised, that looks like changing. Does it matter?Timeline:England1’ England – they really could win the euros. They’re a very good team. Embrace the expectation.6’ Could England go back to back?> Where is the weak link…centre half?8’ Evolution in Southgate’s approach. Has he found a balance.10’ If not England who?15’ Kalvin Philips and Harry Maguire22’ Bellingham…brilliant.Sancho33’ From seventy million pound player to pariah. What happened to Jadon Sancho.35’ massive breakdown between Ten Hag and Sancho.37’ Sancho was amazing at Dortmund.42’ The agent should be the intermediary and her their money.44’ Ghost of Fergie…3pm kick offs54’ Will it impact smaller teams.55’ wall to wall football. Similar to America.58’ all designed by the premier league to stop the bigger clubs breaking away to strike their own TV deals Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In todays edition of The Game Gregor Robertson is joined by Tony Cascarino, Tom Roddy and Alyson Rudd. No surprise that Gregor starts with a look back at Scotland’s qualification for next years Euros, their second in succession. While there were cheers in Scotland, there were boos at Wembley for  Jordan Henderson. Were they justified? No boos in Cardiff as Wales reignited their qualification hopes.After the break Matt Lawton joins to discuss the story unfolding at Manchester Utd as Sir Jim Ratcliffe now looks set to buy the club, in stages, after the Qatar bidders withdrew. Will it change things at Man Utd?Finally, after Alyson Rudd met her footballing hero, Jari Litmanen,  should you ever meet you heroes?  Timeline:ScotlandMichael Grant reviews Scotland’s qualification for the EurosSteve Clarke achievement. Fans going to the finalNew culture at Hampden and Scotland now.EnglandHenderson was booed at Wembley. Southgate disappointing to say he didn’t understand.Henderson coming to the end of his career, or one more tournament.Confused at being booed.Little sympathy.    WalesQualification back in their hands Harry Wilson coming good.Rob page is safe, for nowFirst big result post Gareth Bale.Man UtdMatt Lawton joins to discuss the moves taking place in the race to own Man Utd. Qatar’s pull out, which leaves the way clear for Jim Ratcliffe to take a sizable percentage ownership in the club. This is the first stage of a full takeover, it will not be part measure. Jim Ratcliffe will be the full owner, this is just the way the deal has to be structured.The mechanics of how Man Utd were put up for sale, what/who they wanted and how it panned out.Is the gloom around old Trafford to lift?What do we know about Ineos. What is their track record in cycling and at French ligue 1 side Nice.Lot of things to fix at Man Utd. Injury recurrence, recruitment, contracts…general decision making HeroesAlyson Rudd has final met and interviewed her hero, Jari Litmanen. Seems she is in love with him.Should you meet your heroes? Was it worth meeting him?He was a nice man, humble, he has heroes to.Sidcup high street and Tony met Steve Harley…oh dear.Ton has no heroes. Gregor …Dani Alves and Jon Collins.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chief sports correspondent for The Times Matt Lawton and Chief sports writer for the Sunday Times David Walsh join Tom Clarke for a unique look at England manager Gareth Southgate.David Walsh helped write Southgate’s award winning book in 2004 and broke the news in 2022 that Southgate would be staying on as England manager. Matt Lawton has covered England throughout Southgate’s tenure. Both give rare insight into how he operates and what the man is really like. If you missed part one yesterday they discussed his playing career. In part two it is management…Managerial career2’ Destined to be manager. Many thought he effectively managed Middlesborough from the changing room in his final season. 4’ Southgate happy to express his frustration and disapproval of managers, or situations. 6’ Worked under a wide variety of England managers. David Beckham.7’Middlesborough a great opportunity, but at a tough time with money running out. Southgate blooded the young players. Devastate to get the sack at Middlesborough. Steve Gibson now acknowledges he should never have sacked him. Was he too nice.England 15’ England under 21’s opportunity. A chance to change English football. How to produce technically better footballers.18’ Not a candidate for England after Hodgson left. Nor did he think he’d get the job. He was put forward as a shop gap, a second rater for three games. Southgate objected and wished to be a contender or not at all. FA relented and gave him the chance. He took it. 24’turbulence and distraction with Eriksen and Capello. Then the farce of Allardyce. Southgate proved to be the antidote.27’ a natural in the arena. Became what he wanted to be. Changed how England play, how they are perceived and turn England into a place where players want to be.  His three tournaments as manager32’ was 2018 his bets achievement. With the team he had and the system he played? He changed the culture. Brings good people around him. 36’ How he handled Wayne Rooney’s exit. Losing on penalties to Italy and losing to a very good French team in Qatar.  Tactical awareness…40’ he has always been tactically aware, as player and manager. He never respected managers who he thought had no idea. 46’ Not really close to leaving. “We talked about the game…”52’ Jude Bellingham age.Does he need to win something. Not really he has already been a success.  Is he still the best man for the job. From losing to Iceland a euro final and world cup semi. England in a much better place than when he took the job. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chief sports correspondent for The Times Matt Lawton and Chief sports writer for the Sunday Times David Walsh join Tom Clarke for a unique look at England manager Gareth Southgate.David Walsh helped write Southgate’s award winning book in 2004 and broke the news in 2022 that Southgate would be staying on as England manager. Matt Lawton has covered England throughout Southgate’s tenure. Both give rare insight into how he operates and what the man is really like. If you think the England manager is a bit boring, listen to this first.Timeline:Boring ?2’ Are fans getting a bit tired of Southgate? Nice guy, bit boring…might be a misconception.4’ one of the most interesting people I have ever met.6’ Gareth wrote a chapter of his book in four hours overnight. The subject was Alen Boksic.Playing career12’ Southgate’s playing career. Never got the big move he wanted.14’ loved by Venables.18’ unfulfilled as a player.21’ Middlesborough, leader in the dressing room.23’ Euro 96 Gareth Southgate played every game. Arguably England’s best player. Took a penalty, but others didn’t step up in front of a young player. The press were kind. What does that say for how they viewed Southgate.29’ Southgate learnt and changed. He implemented practicing penalties.  34’ captain everywhere he went. But to start with quite nice. Managers worked to bring out his toughness. He had has an inner steel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 Most teams get a mention as Tony Cascarino, Tom Roddy and Gregor Robertson join Tom Clarke for Mondays’ edition of The Game.Who are city missing most and is the result Arsenal’s spring board.West Ham are playing good football and getting good results, will David Moyes get the credit. At the other end of the table Luton and Burnley are good to watch, but they’re getting no results, will that start to effect morale and belief. For Bournemouth they’re still winless, despite a new manager who arrived with much expectation.Following the injury to Sheffield United’s Chris Basham, Gregor Robertson talks with painful honesty about his time recovering from a severe leg break, the immediate shock, the monotonous daily routine and the thoughts of how it might affect the rest of your life/career.Timeline:Arsenal v City1’ Arsenal, champions after beating City..? Declan Rice was immense. 3’ City weakness or Arsenal strength. What’s happened to Kalvin Philips?4’ Poor quality games. City playing with four centre backs. Both teams more defensive then one might imagine. Do City have a new approach to breaking the press? Overload midfield.8’ Is Rodri their most important player? Tony thinks it is still De Bruyne.10’ Keepers asked to do very risky things. Raya a wreck but then improved. Tottenham top15’ Ange ball, gritty ball. Impressive spirit and character. Van de Venn impressive.16’ Does expectation need to rise, are they the real deal. Spurs still don’t have enough to go the whole season.19’ will the style get figured out. No cover for Maddison and Bissouma.  Top four only.Luton and Burnley20’ Luton played well can’t take chances. What happens if belief starts to wain.  Rob Edwards job could be to keep a team motivated if defeats mount.  24’ Kompany’s style is risky and will often concede goals, but if it works…26’ Burnley will grow into the league.Chelsea28’ turning the corner…had some luck, but results turning. Injured players coming back. Key players scoring, building confidence.31’ Cole Palmer took the penalty…a young player brought in to cover two kep injuries in the Chelsea squad.West Ham v Newcastle37’ Hammers impressive playing good football. Signings all working, Alvarez, Kudos, Ward Browse all playing very well. 39’ Newcastle come down after Europe, Isak best player, looks very good.41’ West Ham players who were off it last year are back on it. 42’ Is Moyes the chucky monster. Cas thinks he’s tough, resilient and deserves huge credit. Now has his best West Ham team.Fulham v Sheff Utd46’ Willian stole the show. 35 signed from a trial at Fulham, set up chance after chance all game. Despite that the team lack goal scorers. Can’t convert their chances. 51’ still good to watch but no edge. 53’ Gregor had the same injury as Basham, severe lower leg injury. He talks graphically about his recovery and the long road ahead for Sheff Utd. How will his absence affect the team? 58’ even with the injury, Sheff Utd weren’t good. Bournemouth59’ No wins under Iraola. They play Wolves and Gary O’Neil after the international break. Will he be under pressure if they lose. Noise is he could be starting to panic.1;00 Club are invested in Iraola, he won’t go. Belief is an issue though.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke is joined by Martin Samuel, Gregor Robertson and Tom Allnutt for a jam packed show. They look back at a memorable night on Tyneside, Martin Samuel thinks Newcastle will win the Champions League before PSG ever will. Then its on to a miserable night at Old Trafford and a look at how Mikel Arteta manages Bukayo Saka.Then its VAR, Gregor thinks the rules are an ass, Martin thinks it’s the rules and the officials.Finally, it’s the awarding of the 2030 world cup to just the three continents…all agree it is a precursor to where 2034 goes…clue; its got a lot of sand and a lot of oil. Timeline:Newcastle1’ Martin Hardy reflects on a special night at St James park.3’ This is not a one off for Newcaste, it is a sign of things to come.7’ the prestige of European competition. Goals scored by locals, people playing for the team.How has Eddie howe done it. And what went wrong with PSG.10’ what’s the problem at PSG. Mbappe is the star but how long will he stay. Does Enrique have a long term vision. This result will not be acceptable in Paris. Gregor thought the tactics were at fault. PSG invite pressure, but they couldn’t cope with it.14’ Its not just teams that win the champs league, its clubs. Newcastle will win it before PSG will.16’ running an elite club is not easy, as Man Utd are demonstrating. Newcastle is well run, good plan, good recruitment and plenty of money to back it up.18’ this was a statement victory, announcing yourself on the European stage. But Tom Allnutt thinks beating a weary club in the group is not winning a two leg semi.20’ Does the result gloss over who owns the club and the issues surrounding Saudi ownership?23’ The French Eddie Howe is not getting the PSG job. They are not connected to the feeding ground of the Paris suburbs. Not enough attention taken to off field appointments. Man Utd25’ It started so well. Goals for Hojlund then it imploded. 26’ Its about a well run club, Utd isn’t. They’ve tried new coaches, experienced, but the club is badly run. No vision.  How are good players turned bad…is it them or the club? Gregor says good players but played out of position and no clear vision and structure.28’ Club culture and off field appointments.  Ten Hag has had to fire fight but is there a consistency to his coaching. How does he want to play.32’ Off field division breeds lack of confidence.  Ten hag is under pressure, he shouldn’t be but he is. as the signings are his. Martin not convinced by Onana.  City v Arsenal35’ Arteta’s management of Saka. Playing him through injury, has that now caught up with them? He is vital for Arsenal, that’s why he keeps playing him.38’ Saka getting kicked a lot. Does Arteta need to protect him. Should they have bought cover? No longer acceptable to jab players up to play.VAR44’ VAR debacle. Gregor has sympathy for Darren England. Made a huge error, for the world to see. The clip humanises45’ Martin looks at the rules that says the game can’t be stopped. 46’ They were incapable of thinking for themselves. The rules are an ass.55’ Bravery needed to go against the rules in a pressure situation being watched by millions. 1;00’ who should serve on ifab1;02’ No replay, despite it being wrong.World cup 1;04’ awarding the world cup to three continents clears the way for Saudi world cup in 2030. What about planet earth. FIFA do many strange things. Martin says Infantino is an appalling figure at the head of football.  Many of the things said about the Qatar world cup proved, after the fact to be true – carbon footprint, workers rights, player welfare - but none of it mattered, FIFA didn’t really care. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining Tom Clarke on this episode of The Game are Alyson Rudd, Molly Hudson and Gregor Robertson. VAR is given a thorough grilling, but will anything change. Should it be referees operating VAR.City without Rodri.Gregor optimistic on the chances of Luton Town and impressed by the potential of Ollie Watkins.Finally the panel discuss the economics of the WSL and how feasible it is to see regular WSL fixtures at the main stadiums.Timeline:VAR at Spurs v Liverpool1’ Alyson has a analogy… is the VAR an old boys club, people who all know each other, not paying close enough attention.3’ Gregor points out the need for the best professionals, not necessarily former refs.7’ why can’t we consider the same skilled professionals that deliver TV, do VAR, are they not as skilled as referees?9’ there has been a development in what a referee is asked to do. Communicate, relay decisions in English.14’ Should ex players be referees? Molly Hudson gives the example of a former Chelsea player who received the most red cards wanting to be a ref once she retires.18’ Liverpool looked good, even with nine men. Spurs win again, they find a way. 21’ Spurs lucky, or finding a way to win. Gregor thinks a bit of both.Wolves v Man City25’ Are City the same team with Rodri missing? Gregor really likes Gary O’Neil he thinks he is going to be a big success somewhere. Neto and his pace is a huge threat.    27’ Wolves finally got a result for their good performances so far this season.29’ Molly also a Gary O’Neil fan. She thinks it is because he isn’t fashionable that he has struggled, particularly why he lost his job at Bournemouth.Man Utd v Palace33’ A classic Hodgson result. Alyson points out Roy is undefeated in his visits to Old Trafford.36’ Not at all surprising result, Man Utd are in flux and struggling for consistency. For Palace is the old result like this enough for Hodgson, does he need to change the brand of football and the consistency?38’ Gregor thinks truth be told, they’ll be happy to survive each year, and by appointing Hodgson survival is the aim.Luton’s first win40’ Big moment for Luton, finally getting their first win, two in two for Carlton Morris.41’ Gregor believes it will give a huge boost. He thinks they have played well, created chances and lost games through individual errors. He thinks they can turn it around.42’ Everton, after a big win against Brentford and Villa in the cup…now losing at home against Luton. Alyson thinks it is really worrying. There is more to be read into this defeat, something is wrong.Aston Villa46’ Villa an attacking team with variety and pace. Gregor likes their style, likes Watkins but also felt Brighton gifted Villa two goals. Watkins has strength, explosive pace and can finish…how far can he go?50’ Brighton fell foul of tinkering and rotation. Alyson thinks they are either very good, or horrid. They’ll come good and play good football, but there will be ups and downs as they negotiate losing players and playing in Europe.52’ Brighton need to maintain the feeling of strength, it can easily slip away. Is DeZerbi too reckless?WSL53’ Surprise of the weekend as Liverpool won at the Emirates against Arsenal, all in front of 50, 000 fans. Big worries and pressure at Arsenal, Chelsea only dropped 8 points last year, Arsenal have already dropped 3.57’ Gregor heard Emma Hayes thoughts on growing the game and the sustainability of the women’s game. The issues around pricing, and timing of games The match was loss making as it costs 300,000 to open the stadium.59’ economics of opening main stadiums for WSL fixtures. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Martin Samuel, Jonny Northcroft and Gregor Robertson join Tom Clarke on Thursday’s edition of The Game.Manchester City lost for the first time at Newcastle, but did Pep Guardiola give his players an excuse for the loss before the game even started. Plus some confidence boosting wins for some big teams.In the second part of the show a fascinating insight into what it takes to be an elite coach – the methods, dedication and psyche needed to succeed. Jonny Northcroft met Anthony Barry, once a lower league English footballer now coaching Ronaldo.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregor Robertson, Alyson Rudd and Tom Allnut join Tom Clarke to discuss the Ange, Chelsea and thrashings. The team pick through the aftermath of the north London derby, Ange’s influence, Raya v Ramsdale and the impact of James Maddison. Chelsea have had their worst start in forty five years, will they even make the top half. Their run of fixtures in the next two months mean it could be tough to turn it around. In contrast Villa are playing good football, climbing the table and looking every inch an Emery team. Does eight nil mean anything anymore?  Are the three promoted trams already doomed? Timeline:Arsenal / Spurs2’ Alyson Rudd was underwhelmed by the north London derby. Error strewn, chaos and mistakes for the goals. Tom Allnut was very impressed with Spurs. They went to the emirates, played the gam they wanted to play and didn’t lose, could even have won. Bigger picture spurs going in the right direction 7’ Gregor says it isn’t a surprise, ‘Ange ball’ has an identity, which Gregor has seen at Celtic, and he is sue he’ll continue in the same vein at Spurs.12’ Rice’s injury.  Not serious, but what effect did it have on Arsenal? 14’ Playing the Raya way. Alyson believes his selection sets the tone for the whole team. While his distribution wasn’t the best this weekend, she thinks he’ll remains Arteta’s first choice, with no rotation. ‘Raya is like having a coach on the pitch.’ Cleve, quick, vocal and good distribution.19’ Tom Allnut discusses how and why Arsenal signed Raya, and other historic examples of two ‘first choice’ goalkeepers at the same club. In the end…Raya is number one.23’ James Maddison…what a great performance in a big game for a new club. They look a good fit. Gregor still baffled no other club tried to sign him. He represents the new sense of joy at spurs. Maddison and son bromance has smoothed the loss of Harry Kane. His value is not just in possession, he is also working hard.28’ Tottenham predictionsChelsea29’ Chelsea…dear oh dear. Worst start in 20 years.30’ Chelsea a billion pounds and still go backwards. Chelsea are a really bad team. Results go a long way back.32’ Tom Allnut can’t believe Pochettino went to Chelsea. Dysfunctional club. Poor signings. Lots of ‘punts’ on players who may or may not come good.35’ two hundred million pound plus players in Caicedo and Fernandez outshone by Villa. Chelsea didn’t just struggle in front of goal. Villa had more shots.38’ Chelsea’s poor disciplinary record, Jackson in particular. 39’ Chelsea predictions…. Villa41’ Villa doing well. Looked strong, organised, hard to beat, but with a cutting edge. Gregor worried about their high line though.Promoted clubs under pressure44’ Eddie Howe steal, Sheffield united woe.50’ Gregor said Sheff Utd were the worst placed of the promoted teams, he fears that is proving to be true.52’ All three promoted teams are in the relegation zone. Why and will it change. 55’ The three clubs have different problems. Luton ambition, or lack of… Burnley style of play.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregor Robertson, Jonny Northcroft and Martin Samuel join Tom Clarke for a debrief of this weeks Champions league matches. A good week for Arsenal and City, an ok week for Newcastle but another forgettable week for Manchester United.Can you really sub a goalkeeper for tactical reasons?Given the strength in depth and the money in the Premier league, is it now almost a super league in its own right?And Gregor has a new celebrity mate…iTimeline:Man Utd 1’ Another bad night for Man Utd. The score was 4-3 but the game was nothing like that. Another defeat, another 6’ Onana Gregor analysis the start to Onana’s Old Trafford career. “Another new player is wobbling.”  10’ Martin recalls the different approaches from various managers he has dealt with towards goalkeepers. He goes on to give an interesting take on pessimists and optimists on the football field. Mourinho didn’t want optimists as defenders. 13’ Is Onana a good enough footballer, is his defence in front of him good enough. Jonny Northcroft, thinks it could be a mix of the two. Wider concern is the recruitment policy.15’ Gregor thinks it isn’t the players but players in a dysfunctional set up look worse than they are. 19’ Winter of discontent. Man Utd have a generous run of fixtures in the next few weeks if they want to get back on track. But Marti Samuel has written about how this team may still struggle.22’ where to start to fix it. Jonny thinks the midfield is the place to begin. He thinks they lack legs, creativity and strength. There is too much pressure on Casimero but he is too old to cover the space in the midfield. Dito Eriksen.23’ Players get better when they’re not in the team, says Martin. Mason Mount didn’t start well but is now touted as the answer. Could Amrabat be the answer, he’ll need time to adjust.Arsenal25’ Arsenal returned to the Champions league as if they had never been away. Gregor thinks it shows the gulf between the Premier league and the rest of Europe. PSV sold their best player this summer…to Nottingham Forest. The development in the Premier League is such that an English team are automatically going to compete well in the Champions league.27’ Arsenal are no longer a prospect, they are ‘there.’ Jonny is beguiled by the ‘vibe’ from Arsenal, the interplay of players like Odegaard, Trossard, Saka and Jesus was a joy to watch.29’ Raya retained his place in goal for Arsenal. Is this going to be the new approach to goalkeepers33’ North London derby. Ange revolution v Arsenal on a high.Newcastle38’ Do Newcastle need to evolve, will they be able to? What does the result say about the premier league. Newcastle were average but they got a result, in the San Siro. 44’ Premier League strength, demonstrated by the players brought to the league and also players sold to other major European clubs. 48’ IS the premier league a de-facto super league?Man City50’ Jeremy Doku gives Man City a new dimension. Beating men, creating space, staying wide. Are they already favourites. 55’ Favourite Champions League moments from the week.58’ Gregor is star struck after interviewing Norman Cook - Fat Boy slim Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.