The Game

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.

Gregor Robertson, Tony Cascarino and Alyson Rudd join Tom Clarke for the Monday edition of ‘The Game.’The postmortem on Man Utd v Brighton takes centre stage. Brighton were brilliant, a well run well managed club playing great football. Manchester United were the polar opposite in almost every sense. Will matters improve?Are Liverpool title contenders. Gregor and Tony are far from convinced but Alyson is a convert.Chelsea have stalled, no identity, injury prone and yet they have spent a billion pounds. Where next…?Tinkering from Arteta, resilience from Spurs and what are Everton? Finally Alyson caught up with Roy Hodgson to ask if he is becoming a national treasure. Man Utd v Brighton1’ Mystic Tony. Tony Cascarino predicted the result and the score of the Man Utd game. No one was surprised by the result. Was it brilliant Brighton or woeful Utd. Or both. Are the problems on the pitch or off…or both. 7’ Gregor Alyson and Tony all agree Man Utd are a club in chaos. In stark contrast to Brighton. “Man Utd are paying people to attend their party, Brighton just throw a good party.” 12’ off field trouble leaking on to the pitch? Tony thinks there could also be an issue around the type of football that Ten Hag wants to play.Liverpool…title contenders?17’ Gregor is so sure. He was at Molineux for Wolves v Liverpool. They are erratic, very poor first half, low in energy. But they have a wealth of riches on the bench and a manager willing to take risks. He thought second half they effectively played 4-2-4, throwing caution to the wind. But is that sustainable? What is their midfield balance. Can Trent defend and is Robertson being shackled? Alyson is convinced. On a bad day Liverpool still got the job done and she sees enormous potential. 25’ Tony doesn’t think they will challenge.  27’ Gary O’Neil gets a bit tick. Sleepy Sunday29’ A slow day on Sunday. Alyson was at Bournemouth v Chelsea. A dull nil nil. The two managers cancelled each other out. One creating ordered chaos, the other well-structured and a bit negative.  Chelsea didn’t have an identity.32’ lots of injuries at Chelsea, 12 well known players out. But are those players all important, Gregor isn’t so sure.AI and injuries33’ Injuries are not just bad luck. In an interesting take Alyson quotes the use of AI to predict potential injuries. She isn’t sure the injury list at Chelsea is just bad luck.34’ Tony, as an ex blue says the club is in transition. Lots of new players and staff. Everton38’ “Everton are a poor version of Dyche’s Burnley” Tony is worried by Everton, a team unsure which way they need to play t get a result.Arsenal - Ramsdale or Raya?Is Arteta tinkering too much? Gregor thinks modern football has changed and perhaps interchanging a goalkeeper isn’t that unusual. Interesting all three prefer Raya to Ramsdale. West Ham – diving headers46’ Tony loves a diving header. Scored a few, but also talks about the technical benefits of a diving header, not giving the keeper time to get set. Spurs v Sheff Utd49’ Heart break for Sheff Utd. But is there a quiet Ange revolution going on at Spurs? 51’ Has Paul Heckingbottom been harshly treated by the media? Villa comeback56’ “Villa now look so dynamic.” “Diaby is a real player.” Roy Hodgson1’00” Alyson recently chatted to Roy again, before he fell ill. He talked about taking a surprise job on, gaining new fans and giving his players freedom.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregor Robertson, Tony Cascarino and Martin Samuel join Tom Clarke for this episode of The Game.The team address the criticism surrounding Harry Maguire. Tony Cascarino says the situation reminds him of one of his former international colleagues. They go on to discuss the fans response, Maguires reaction and how the player rebuilds his confidence.Looking at England and Judge Bellingham in particular, have England ever had greater strength in depth in the middle of the park? Paul Pogba’s situation is briefly discussed.As Brighton head to Old Trafford, with many expecting them to win, Martin secured a rare interview with Brighton chairman Tony Bloom. Brighton are doing more than challenging on the pitch, off it, they are now a set up admired throughout Europe.Finally – lies, damned lies and football stats. Are they worth the paper they are written on?Times:Harry Maguire1’-14’ Is the treatment Harry Maguire has had from fans fair?4’ – comparisons with Mick McCarthy and his contrasting club and international career6’. Managers trust certain players and stick with them until they let them down.14’ Do the media have a case to answer. Are they making Maguire’s situation worse.Maguires mum has commented on social media.15’ Gregor on Harrys mum.England strength and Jude Bellingham18’ Jude Bellingham shone for England at Hampden park. But Gregor says it isn’t just physical ability, it is his mentality and mindset which sets him apart.20’ Bellingham’s positioning for Real and for England. Might England still not be getting the best out of him.22’ England’s strength in depth, especially in the creative positions.27’ Kalvin Philips. Not playing for city but still getting picked for England. Another case of a player Southgate trusts and continues to use.30’ Paul Pogba. Is his career heading down the ‘lost talent’ route? With a provisional suspension what happens next. Brighton v Man utd32’ Big week for Brighton who play Manchester Utd and then head to Athens in Europe. Martin has been speaking with Brighton chairman Tony Bloom. On the pitch they have beaten Utd the last four times they have played, they have a coveted centre forward and an international centre half. They go into the game – at Old Trafford – as favourites. A sign of how far they have come.38’ How far can Brighton go? How to make the step up from being viewed as a ‘smaller club’ dealing with Europe and the squad strength following the loss of their two main midfielders.48’ And what about Man Utd. If they lose is Ten Hag under pressure?“Nice kit, but doesn’t look like Man Utd, but neither do the team.”49’ Lies, damned lies and football stats.Are football stats worth the paper they’re written on Martin wrote a piece addressing possession stats in particular.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Saudi's football giants - How the signings work and will the spending continue? Tom Clarke is joined by regular Monday panellist Alyson Rudd and debutant Tom Kershaw. Messrs Martin Hardy and Michael Grant drop in to give reaction and updates from England and Scotland perspectives. Alyson Rudd gives her reaction to the resignation of Luis Rubiales. Tom Kershaw gives a fascinating and unmissable insight into Saudi sport, how it operates, its fans, culture and the plans in place for the future. 02’.00 – An emotional night as Ukraine fans travelled to see their team play England in Poland. On the pitch - disjointed England. Reaction to England’s less than inspiring performance against Ukraine. How to make the most of the talent on offer, why did the two form players – Bellingham and Maddison appear restricted? 12’00– Are England about to poach a player from the Scottish ranks? Newcastle’s Eliot Anderson could be about to cross the border…Martin Hardy wrote the story. 18’30 - England have the chance to spoil Scotland’s party yet again…” Scottish football correspondent Michael Grant is optimistic this time could be different. Michael updates on the Scotland camp. Are the tartan army booking their tickets to Germany next summer? And what does Michael make of the potential switch of two players from Scotland to England.25’00 - England Scotland predictions. Will it be a match to remember or a bore draw. Alyson Rudd predicts an underwhelming nil nil.30’10 – Discussion and reaction to Luis Rubiales resignation. Is it a case of sorry not sorry? Has the Spanish world cup victory become a post script, with the Rubiales incident being the focal point?33- Tom Kershaw gives a fascinating insight in to Saudi sport. Tom has been to the country on a number of occasions in recent times. he discusses Saudi fans, the atmosphere they create at games and how there are attempts to use football to generate a sports culture, energise the young male population in a country with high rates of diabetes. 36’ atmosphere at matches in the Saudi pro league. Fan culture and behaviour. 41’ the heat and humidity and the effects it has on foreign players.43’ what are the training facilities like in the pro league?47’ is this a flash in the pan, will the money dry up. Or do the league and the financial backers have a long term plan…?49’ What is the financial structure, how is a player signed to play in the pro league. It is different the transfer deadline day type bidding wars we are used to seeing in European leagues.52’ will the bubble burst. Alyson thinks it might. Tom is sure it won’t. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Game Tom Clarke is joined by Matt Dickinson, Matt Lawton and Martin Samuel to discuss the weeks footballing news, this weekend’s international fixtures and a few very funny stories of runs ins with former England managers and captains. 1.10: Roy Keane incident/sports pundits.  Was the Roy Keane incident an accident waiting to happen. Martin Samuel discusses the loss of impartiality in sports broadcasting. Wider comments on ex-players as pundits. Is their perceived fan loyalty detracting from their in-depth knowledge.15.30: Anthony/Greenwood/Man Utd. Tough times at Manchester United off the pitch. In light of the Anthony allegations have the club set a precedent in the way they have handled the Mason Greenwood situation.20.00: Jordan Henderson. Was the former Liverpool players interview a good idea? Were his responses to his critics believable? The discussion broadens out to Saudi influence on sport. Matt Lawton highlights the vast amounts of money involved. All agree that Saudi Arabian influence, across all sport, not just football is an unstoppable force. 35.50: England. Do managers or journalists learn anything from friendlies? What areas of the England team need to be looked at.39.00 – Gareth Southgate. Is he still under pressure? Is he tactically astute enough? What does the future hold for Southgate. Matt Lawton is adamant that the FA can not let him leave the FA. With his knowledge he must be retained in some way. Should he be the most important and influential person in English football? 50.00: The writers discuss their best stories of run ins they’ve had with England managers of the past. Should journalist be told the team ahead of time? Tales of Roy Hodgson, Fabio Capello, Sven Eriksen and Glen Hoddle follow. 1’.08: Which England captains have the writers worked with, who have been engaging, who have been reluctant to work closely with the journalists. The press pack take on David Beckham. The Spice Girls and Beckhams Mohican.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregor Robertson is joined by Tony Cascarino, Tom Roddy and Alyson Rudd to look back at the weekend's Premier League action.They start by reviewing Arsenal's 3-1 win over Manchester United at the Emirates and ask just how significant it was for the Gunners. They also reflect on Jadon Sancho's statement released on social media and how damaging it could be for his career. (00:00)Chelsea's woes continued with a 1-0 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest, what can Mauricio Pochettino do to solve their problems in attack? They also debate how important that win was for Nottingham Forest, and discuss their hopes for the season. (17:35)Spurs continued their unbeaten start to the season with a 5-2 victory at Burnley. Just how important is James Maddison if they are to achieve any success season? How influential has Ange Postecoglou been in their start to the campaign? (28:45)Brighton rounded off Saturday afternoon with a 3-1 win at home to Newcastle, with Evan Ferguson starring with a hat-trick. How far can he go in his career, and how exciting is Brighton's season with Europa League football to come? They also debate if Newcastle fans should start to worry after 3 defeats in their first 4 games? (41:46)Mohamed Salah stars for Liverpool as they thrash Aston Villa 3-0 at Anfield - but will he still be at the club by the end of the Saudi Pro League transfer window? They also hail the performance of Dominik Szoboszlai. (55:54)Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day. Start your free trial: thetimes.co.uk/thegame Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregor Robertson is joined by Jonathan Northcroft, James Restall and Martin Samuel in The Times office.Chelsea are close to signing Cole Palmer from Manchester City for a fee of around £45m. Should City have found a way for him to fit into their side and is a move to Stamford Bridge the best option for someone who wants minutes? (00:00)Ansu Fati looks like he’s on his way from Barcelona to Brighton on loan. Is this a sign that Brighton are about to step up their spending? (11:00)Harry Maguire looks like he’ll be staying at Old Trafford after a move to West Ham failed to materialise. Given his projected lack of minutes, should he still be in the England team? The same question could be asked of Jordan Henderson after his move to Saudi Arabia (16:52)Luis Rubiales is still in a job as the president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, despite calls from all corners to resign over his conduct at the Women’s World Cup final. How will this situation conclude and how damaging has this saga been for women's football? (34:26)We’ve seen some Premier League teams slip up in the League Cup second round. Sheffield United went out against Lincoln City and Tottenham dropped out thanks to Fulham. We round up the latest results and ponder whether pundits should work on games where the team they support are playing (45:40)Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day. Start your free trial: thetimes.co.uk/thegame Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregor Robertson is joined by Alyson Rudd, Tony Cascarino and Martin Hardy in The Times office in London.Liverpool’s Darwin Núñez came off the bench to score twice late on for ten-man Liverpool against Newcastle United in a modern classic at St James’s Park. The Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp ranked the victory among the most special of his career, but just how big a missed opportunity was this for Newcastle?Manchester United also produced a stirring comeback, after going 2-0 down in the opening four minutes against Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford. But has Old Trafford lost its fear factor?Following a series of high-profile stories involving the mistreatment of women by men working in football, including the recent suspension by Fifa of the Spanish Football Federation’s President Luis Rubiales, we ask: is football, as an industry, failing women?There was more late drama at the Emirates as Arsenal conceded an 87th minute equaliser against ten-man Fulham. The Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, is trying to evolve last season’s title challengers, but does he need to? And Manchester City took advantage to go top of the table with a late winner at Sheffield United, much to the relief of Erling Haaland — and Kyle Walker.Following impressive wins for West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur, inspired by two new recruits familiar to the Premier League, could the relatively unheralded signings of James Ward-Prowse and James Maddison respectively be the summer’s most inspired transfers?Finally, after Joachim Andersen equalised for Crystal Palace with what can only be described as a slide tackle through the legs of the Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken, Tony Cascarino talks us through a goal he scored for Aston Villa that was so bad it won an award.Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day. Start your free trial: themes.co.uk/thegame Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke is joined by Gregor Robertson, Jonathan Northcroft and Martin Samuel in The Times office.Mason Greenwood will leave Manchester United imminently, but how easily will he find a new club and where in the world could that club be? (00:00)Manchester City are being forced back into the transfer window later than they usually would. Are they starting to panic or just simply reacting to the injury to Kevin De Bruyne? (06:38)Aston Villa are practically through to the group stages of the Europa Conference League after a 5-0 first leg win at Hibernian. How much does this European involvement mean to the club and why do Scottish clubs struggle to compete at this level? (18:22)Everton have started the season badly and look like they’ll struggle for goals. Is this the season they finally go down and how important is moving to their new stadium in the search for fresh investment? (27:15)Martin Samuel has written in The Times about Bruno Fernandes’ captaincy at Manchester United and why managers choose certain players to lead the team. As a former pro, Gregor has some thoughts on his favourite skippers he’s played under (38:31)A mention of Ben Foster’s second retirement leads to a conversation about the difficulty players have getting into elite sides and how the quality of the football pyramid is improving as a result (49:31)Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day. Start your free trial: thetimes.co.uk/thegame Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke is joined by Gregor Robertson, Alyson Rudd and Tom Roddy in The Times office in London, with Molly Hudson in Australia.The Lionesses came up just short in the World Cup final on Sunday - Molly Hudson joins us from Sydney to look back on a close game against Spain and look ahead to a future with or without Sarina Wiegman in charge. (00:00)In the Premier League, it was a disastrous weekend for Everton who won’t forget their visit to Villa Park in a hurry and Chelsea won’t be overly keen on the London Stadium after a 3-1 defeat to West Ham. How long will it take Mauricio Pochettino’s side to fully gel and what can realistically be expected of them this season? (11:40)Tom Roddy gives us an insight into his exclusive conversation with former Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who left the club for AC Milan in the summer. You can read the full conversation on The Times website (25:24)Tottenham began life after Harry Kane with a 2-0 win over Manchester United. Have the club finally found the right manager to give them a clear identity and vision? As for United, are they still quite a way off where they need to be or was it just one of those days? (29:44)Manchester City overcame Newcastle without Kevin De Bruyne, who is out for several months through injury. Phil Foden stepped up to fill in, but did he impress? (46:00)We round up the rest of the weekend results as Fulham and Brentford share a similar problem in attack, while Brighton end the weekend top of the table despite their summer outgoings (52:05)Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day. Start your free trial: thetimes.co.uk/thegame Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke is in The Times office in London and he's joined by Molly Hudson and Owen Slot in Australia at the Women's World Cup.The Lionesses are now just one win away from lifting the World Cup trophy. Molly and Owen share the latest from the England camp down under as Sarina Wiegman prepares her squad for the biggest game of their careers.Lauren James is available to play after serving her two match ban - but should she come straight back into the starting line up? We debate this huge decision with a little help from former Lioness and Times columnist, Casey Stoney.Spain are tough opponents with a lot of quality, but behind the scenes they're a team in turmoil. Molly shares tales of striking players, a coach that doesn't connect with the squad and how the team are looking to write their own history on Sunday.Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day. Start your free trial: thetimes.co.uk/thegame Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke is joined by Jonny Northcroft, Gregor Robertson and Martin Samuel. In today’s pod Manchester United beat Wolves but how did they look? Wolves lost, but how did they look.Manchester United have more than on field issues to worry about as they are poised to make a decision about the future of Mason Greenwood.A London derby as West Ham face Chelsea, which team has a plan and which one doesn’t?Jonny Northcroft has been to meet the premier leagues first black official in fifteen years, Akil Howson.Could there really be a title decider this early in the season? And some funny stories about scary managers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Tom Clarke is joined by Alyson Rudd, Tony Cascarino and Gregor Robertson. On the agenda is a scintillating start for Newcastle and a tough start for the three promoted clubs Luton, Sheffield United and Burnley. The team hear from Molly Hudson who is following England as they prepare for a semi-final against the Matilda’s at the Women’s World Cup. They then move on to address Spurs without Kane and Gregor finishes the pod with a fascinating take on the other impending one hundred million pound transfer, that of Moises Caicedo. Gregor recently visited Caicedo’s first club in the mountains of Ecuador, he describes what life is like for many young footballers in a country deeply affected by poverty.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Premier League season is back and The Game podcast previews the new season with a special two-part show. In Part 2 Tom Clarke, Alyson Rudd, Gregor Robertson and Tom Roddy discuss the rest of the teams in the Premier League. They are joined by Paul Hirst to discuss the Community Shield, debating the title hopes for Manchester City and Arsenal as well as discussing Manchester United's pre-season preparations. They assess whether Brighton and Brentford can hit the same heights and share some concerns over Everton, Fulham, Bournemouth, Wolves, Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace. Aston Villa, Newcastle and Liverpool are the big clubs with big talking points to conclude the show.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Game: Season preview - part one The Premier League season is back and The Game podcast previews the new season with a special two-part show. In Part 1 Tom Clarke is joined by Alyson Rudd, Gregor Robertson and Tom Roddy to talk Luton, Sheffield United and Burnley and their hopes of survival as the League's new arrivals. The team also tackle some London clubs going through change this summer: West Ham, Chelsea and Tottenham. Finally they react to England's penalty shootout victory against Nigeria in the Women's World Cup.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Clarke is joined by James Restall in London and Molly Hudson in Australia to discuss the latest from the Women's World Cup.Sarina Wiegman has shown she's not afraid to make changes in this tournament - is this key to England's success? Lauren James has been the standout player for the Lionesses so far, but which other players deserve praise? (00:00)England take on Nigeria next - what kind of challenge do they pose? Former England defender and Times columnist Casey Stoney has her say on which Lionesses will play a huge part in how the rest of the tournament will play out for England. (22:45)In the second half of the show, Gregor Robertson and Willis Bennett join Tom Clarke to look ahead to the brand new EFL season. The Championship begins on Friday, but which teams are predicted to have a positive season in the 'toughest league' to progress from? (35:25)Leagues One and Two also get started this weekend - and you might be surprised to find out which team in the latter are expected to shine this season! (55:06)Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day. Start your free trial: thetimes.co.uk/thegame Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hugh Woozencroft is joined by Gregor Robertson and Tom Clarke to look back at the week's Euro 2024 qualifying action, and discuss the week's biggest stories.The Times' Deputy Sports Editor James Restall joins the show to look back at England's 7-0 win over North Macedonia in their Euro 2024 qualifying group. They discuss what we may have learned from the game, and ask if England are now ready to win a major tournament. (00:00)The Times' Scotland Reporter Martin Grant joins the show to reflect on Scotland's 2-1 win over Norway which sees them top of their Euro 2024 qualifying group, and they also preview tonight's game with Georgia. (16:10)Wales suffered back-to-back defeats this week, but should the pressure now be on their manager Rob Page? Did they make a mistake at the World Cup by still playing the likes of Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen? (24:30)Bournemouth have sacked manager Gary O'Neil and replaced him with the former Rayo Vallecano manager Andoni Iraola, but was it the right decision? Are the owners showing ambition by having a plan in place for next season, or will Iraola's lack of experience in the Premier League cost them next season? (34:25)The panel reflect on Darren Moore's sacking as Sheffield Wednesday manager and what next for him? Hugh Woozencroft also says his goodbye as the presenter of The Game Podcast. (44:55)Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day. Start your free trial: thetimes.co.uk/thegame Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.