Podcast
BBC Radio 5 Live
256 episodes · en
The latest news, insight, analysis and big-name guests from the Premier League, EFL, Scottish, International and European football. Plus, fact-checking football stories with Karel Prince: Lie Detector. Get in touch with us @5liveSport on social media and remember to leave us your ratings and reviews.
Aug 12, 2026 · 31 min
This week, former Manchester United, Sunderland, Cardiff City and Huddersfield Town striker Fraizer Campbell submits three stories from his career, but only one is true. Was Campbell really caught up in a police helicopter pursuit after taking a wrong turn through the city centre? Did he secretly climb out of a hotel window to collect chicken and chips on the eve of a Championship playoff final? Or did he ignore manager Steve Bruce's instructions and sneak off to Las Vegas for 48 hours with team-mate Titus Bramble during an international break? Armed with photographs, football knowledge and a healthy dose of suspicion, Karel and Anita investigate every claim before Campbell returns to reveal the truth. Karel Prince: Lie Detector is presented by Karel Prince and Anita Abayomi and is a Sport Social Studios production for BBC Sounds. Credits Series Producer: Matt Tasker Technical Producer: Tom Hinckley Executive Producer: Jim Salveson Photography: Tom Barker Artwork: James Mobbs Original Theme Music: WIZZFX Commissioning Executive for BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard
Aug 11, 2026 · 50 min
The new EFL season is back with nine months of drama to come across the Championship, League One and League Two. Aaron Paul is joined by Andy Woodman, Luke Chambers and Lyle Taylor to preview all three divisions, looking at promotion contenders, relegated giants and, dark horses. West Ham and Wolves return to the second tier, Southampton and Middlesbrough all have their eyes on promotion. Bromley manager Andy Woodman discusses the club's historic first season in the third tier, while Leicester City and Sheffield Wednesday look to bounce back after relegation. Salford City manager Peter Cklamovski joins us to discuss his journey from Australia and Asia to English football, working with Ange Postecoglou and the pressure of taking charge of one of the division's promotion favourites. And don't forget to join the official 72+ EFL Fantasy League using the code 72EFLPOD. The 72+ Podcast now has a new home, just look for the 72+ Podcast feed on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts. 00:00 Intro 02:10 Championship preview 03:05 West Ham 09:40 Wolves 13:50 Burnley 17:30 Southampton 22:40 Middlesbrough 25:40 Championship dark horses 31:30 League One and Bromley 36:10 PFA open legal proceedings over the EFL 37:10 Leicester City, Sheffield Wednesday and Oxford United 39:40 Salford City boss Peter Cklamovski 46:30 York City 5Live commentaries this week: Wednesday 12th August: PSG v Aston Villa Sunday 16th August: Manchester City v Arsenal
Aug 10, 2026 · 53 min
Chris Sutton, Izzy Christiansen and Sami Mokbel are with Kelly Sommers to debate the big talking points around the Premier League and elsewhere. The panel analyse new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola’s comments on his squad’s fitness, after learning more about reports linking Amazon-owning billionaire Jeff Bezos with a bid to buy a significant stake in the club. Elsewhere with the top clubs, how will Manchester City cope without Rodri if he moves to Barcelona, what does Arsenal’s failed pursuit of Vinicius Junior say about the Premier League and how will Manchester United reintegrate Marcus Rashford after 18 months away on loan? Finally, how did a Norwich City fan’s name end up on a Brazilian team’s shirt? Ana and Jonny Butcher join the Monday Night Club to explain more... Timecodes: 02:00 Billionaire consortium including Jeff Bezos set to invest in Liverpool — what does it mean? 07:00 Andoni Iraola’s comments on the Liverpool’s squad fitness — is he risking alienating the dressing room already? 22:00 What will the Guardiola to Maresca transition look like at Manchester City, and how much does Rodri’s future affect that? 27:00 Why couldn’t Arsenal sign Vinicius and what does it say about how the world’s best players view the Premier League? 32:15 Marcus Rashford’s back at Manchester United, can Michael Carrick reintegrate him successfully? 45:30 The English fan whose name is on a Brazilian club’s shirt — Ana and Jonny Butcher join the show!
Aug 5, 2026 · 25 min
This week, Soccer AM favourite and broadcaster John Fendley (aka Fenners) submits three stories from his career. Did Lionel Messi really storm out of a FIFA match after losing to Fenners, cancelling their interview in the process? Did Fenners score the first ever goal at the new Wembley Stadium during a pre-opening test event? Or did Barcelona legend and Ballon d'Or winner Rivaldo disappear moments before filming, only to be found relieving himself in a nearby bush? Armed with photographs, football knowledge and plenty of scepticism, Karel and Anita examine every detail before Fenners returns to reveal the truth. Karel Prince: Lie Detector is presented by Karel Prince and Anita Abayomi and is a Sport Social Studios production for BBC Sounds. Credits Series Producer: Matt Tasker Technical Producer: Tom Hinckley Executive Producer: Jim Salveson Photography: Tom Barker Artwork: James Mobbs Original theme music: WIZZFX Commissioning Executive for BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard Commissioning & Digital Support: Jade Burns & Stuart Birch
Aug 3, 2026 · 52 min
Andros Townsend, Don Hutchison and The Athletic’s Adam Crafton join Aaron Paul to talk FIFA, Gianni Infantino and transfers. The BBC's Sports Editor Dan Roan gives the latest on Infantino's future, less than a week after his plans to sell stakes of FIFA competitions to private investors were announced. Are his days numbered or can he fight back to retain power after a humiliating week? Plus, you'll hear from Laura McAllister, a UEFA vice-president. In the transfer window, what's happening at Newcastle after Eddie Howe's departure? BBC Sport's Ciaran Kelly joins as the panel discuss where the club are at given the departures of key players alongside their manager. And can Arsenal really buy Real Madrid star Vinicius Jnr, and where would that signing rank in Premier League history for superstar transfers? Timecodes: 00:45 What's the latest on Infantino and FIFA? With Dan Roan 05:20 Laura McAllister on FA Wales' decision to withdraw support for Gianni Infantino 10:00 Is Infantino still courting Trump, and how can he stay in power? 14:55 Why has it taken this to cause opposition to Infantino? 16:15 What was the feeling around Infantino's controversies for those actually at the World Cup? 23:00 What state are Newcastle United in, will Bruno Guimares leave to Arsenal? With Ciaran Kelly 39:45 Spurs boss Roberto de Zerbi promises a 'bomba' signing! 42:25 Can Arsenal really sign Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior and how big a move would it be in Premier League history?
Jul 30, 2026 · 49 min
Eilidh Barbour is joined by former Rangers midfielder Charlie Adam, Livingstone's Ryan McGowan and the Guardian's Scottish football correspondent Ewan Murray to look ahead to the new Scottish Premiership season. After Celtic snatched the title from Hearts on the final day of last season, which way will this season's title race go? Rangers have raided Hearts for their manager and 2 key players, Hearts have had to rebuild under their new Belgian head coach and Celtic have stuck with the tried and trusted Martin O'Neill along with some eye-catching signings. The panel also pick their "best of the rest" and who might struggle towards the bottom of the table. TIMECODES: 01:44 - Can Derek McInnes get Rangers winning trophies? 15:34 - How do Hearts rebuild under Wouter Vrancken? 29:36 - Are Celtic favourites after sticking with Martin O'Neill? 42:16 - Best of the rest? 46:15 - Who's going to struggle?
Jul 30, 2026 · 32 min
Eleanor Oldroyd is joined by BBC Chief Football News Reporter Simon Stone, The Athletic’s Adam Crafton and ESPN’s Julien Laurens as UEFA and its 55 member associations take the extraordinary step of threatening to boycott every FIFA competition if Gianni Infantino proceeds with plans to sell ownership stakes in the World Cup and other tournaments to private investors. We hear UEFA’s powerful statement declaring the World Cup “not for sale”, reaction from home nations and CONCACAF, and speak live to UEFA vice-president Laura McAllister who was in the room for the vote. Plus thoughts from former FA executive director David Davies and discussion of the immediate threat to upcoming tournaments - including the U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland that starts in five weeks, for which England have already qualified.
Jul 30, 2026 · 30 min
John Bennett presents reaction to Eddie Howe's departure from Newcastle United, just three weeks out from the new Premier League campaign. He's joined by the Daily Telegraph's Luke Edwards to discuss why exactly Howe has chosen to leave, and what his legacy at the club will be. Newcastle fan Samantha Rees tells us of her shock at Howe's departure. And we hear all about the frontrunner to replace Howe, Matthias Jaissle, from German football writer Constantin Eckner. TIMECODES 01:30 Why Howe decided to leave 05:40 The effect of Newcastle's recruitment 07:45 Newcastle fan Samantha Rees on her reaction to Howe's departure 17:10 Who is Matthias Jaissle? German football journalist Constantin Eckner on Newcastle's prospective new boss
Jul 29, 2026 · 14 min
Eleanor Oldroyd is joined by BBC Sport's Chief Football News Reporter Simon Stone and football finance expert Kieran Maguire. The panel discuss FIFA's proposal and the fallout from the announcement. They assess the chances of it actually happening and consider whether investors could have a greater say in the future of football. Plus, what could this potential scheme mean for supporters?
Jul 29, 2026 · 29 min
This week, former Stoke City, Chelsea, Everton and Bosnia-Herzegovina goalkeeper Asmir Begović submits three stories from his career. Did Stoke manager Tony Pulis really invite Begović to date his daughter with the hope that he might one day become his son-in-law? Did Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers secretly call him into an office at Anfield to discuss a transfer immediately after a Premier League match? Or did Rafa Benítez shorten a proposed Everton contract because he was convinced Begović enjoyed too many nights out? Armed with photographs, football knowledge and plenty of confidence, Karel and Anita dissect every detail before Begović returns to reveal the truth. Karel Prince: Lie Detector is presented by Karel Prince and Anita Abayomi and is a Sport Social Studios production for BBC Sounds. Credits Series Producer: Matt Tasker Technical Producer: Tom Hinckley Assistant Producer: Jason Kavuma Executive Producer: Jim Salveson Photography: Tom Barker Artwork: James Mobbs Original theme music: WIZZFX Commissioning Executive for BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard Commissioning & Digital Support: Jade Burns & Stuart Birch
Jul 27, 2026 · 44 min
We'd like to introduce you to the first episode of 'Sports Strangest Crimes Presents: Shadows On The Pitch'. Throughout the series, James Montague investigates a startling conspiracy theory put forward by the Iraqi football federation in the 90s - that America influenced a World Cup qualifying tournament to save USA '94 from its so-called enemies. In this opening episode, a former referee with a cryptic message may hold the key to unraveling the mystery. Can he help James uncover the truth behind the alleged conspiracy surrounding the build-up to the 1994 World Cup? James travels to Bucharest in search of answers. If you enjoyed 'Sports Strangest Crimes Presents: Shadows on the Pitch' and want to hear more, head to the Sports Strangest Crimes feed on BBC Sounds, where you can listen to the rest of the series.
Jul 22, 2026 · 30 min
Karel Prince and Anita Abayomi are the BBC’s resident Lie Detectors, examining unbelievable football stories to uncover the truth. In the first episode, former Manchester United and Scotland striker Brian McClair submits three stories from his playing career. Did Sir Alex Ferguson really deliver a notorious hairdryer over a player attending the birth of his child? Did David Beckham lay out brand-new pyjamas and a framed photo of Victoria before every away game? And did McClair’s famous nickname ‘Choccy’ really originate from a supermarket job? Armed with case files, photographs and their own football knowledge, Karel and Anita interrogate every detail before Brian returns to reveal which story is genuine. It’s football folklore, detective work and plenty of laughs, with one simple question at the heart of every episode: can you spot the lie? Karel Prince: Lie Detector is presented by Karel Prince & Anita Abayomi and is a Sport Social Studios production for BBC Sounds. Credits Series Producer: Matt Tasker Technical Producer: Tom Hinckley Assistant Producer: Jason Kavuma Executive Producer: Jim Salveson Photography: Tom Barker Artwork: James Mobbs Original theme music: WIZZFX Commissioning Executive for BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard Commissioning & Digital Support: Jade Burns & Stuart Birch
Jul 21, 2026 · 1 min
Karel Prince is the BBC’s new resident fact checker. Alongside Anita Abayomi, they are charged with investigating football stories so unbelievable they simply have to be checked. Every week, a famous figure from the world of football submits three extraordinary tales. Two are lies. One is completely true. The challenge? Can Karel separate fact from fiction before the final whistle? Armed with case files, photographs, voice notes and an encyclopaedic knowledge of the game, Karel opens a new investigation each episode. Alongside Anita he interrogates every claim, challenges every timeline and follows every lead in pursuit of the truth. Part detective, part fact-checker and part chaos conductor, Karel brings forensic scrutiny to football’s wildest stories, while Anita ensures no detail escapes examination. Karel Prince’s Lie Detector asks the only question that matters: which story is true? The investigation starts now. Roll the tapes. Karel Prince: Lie Detector is presented by Karel Prince & Anita Abayomi and is a Sport Social Studios production for BBC Sounds. Credits Series Producer: Matt Tasker Technical Producer: Tom Hinckley Assistant Producer: Jason Kavuma Executive Producer: Jim Salveson Photography: Tom Barker Artwork: James Mobbs Original theme music: WIZZFX Commissioning Executive for BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard Commissioning & Digital Support: Jade Burns & Stuart Birch
Jul 21, 2026 · 44 min
Spain succeed, Argentina played the villains and is the pressure off Thomas Tuchel? Steve Crossman is joined by Adam Crafton, Steph Houghton and Luis Miguel Echegaray to discuss the fallout from the World Cup Final and England's bronze final win over France. 1:21 - Former Spanish international Cesar Azpilicueta pays tribute to Spain 14:37 - Did Argentina make themselves the bad guys? 30:58 - Has England's 3rd place finish taken the pressure off Thomas Tuchel?
Jul 20, 2026 · 1 hr 1 min
Steve Crossman is joined by former teammates, colleagues, journalists and fans of Kevin Keegan, who has died aged 75. 4:14 - BBC Football Correspondent John Murray 7:22 - Former Newcastle player Lee Clark 17:29 - Samantha, Newcastle supporter 26:24 - Former Newcastle manager Chris Hughton 34:45 - Liverpool teammate Phil Thompson 40:02 - John Gibbons from The Anfield Wrap 47:20 - Former Chairman of the Football Writers Association Paul Hetherington and football journalist Henry Winter 55:01 - German football reporter for The Athletic Seb Stafford-Bloor
Jul 20, 2026 · 50 min
The World Cup is over. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith take you inside football's biggest night after watching the final at MetLife Stadium. They reflect on the atmosphere, what it was like to experience a World Cup final in person and whether the much-talked-about half-time show added to the occasion or distracted from it. Joe Hart joins to analyse Spain's victory and explain why they deserved to lift the trophy, while Kelly Cates gives her verdict on the spectacle surrounding the final. And after six unforgettable weeks together across Los Angeles and New York, Rick and Lloyd sign off from the World Cup one final time.
Jul 19, 2026 · 43 min
Relive the atmosphere and instant reaction from 5 Live at full-time as Spain overcome a dogged 10-man Argentina to win the 2026 World Cup. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time. Kelly Cates is joined by John Murray, Ian Dennis, Chris Sutton and Paul Robinson in New Jersey as Spain's captain Rodri lifts the famous trophy. Guillem Balague gives his reaction to the win for Spain and South American football expert Tim Vickery has his say on a tight, cagey encounter. TIMECODES: 00:10 - Spain's magic moment 01:20 - Chris Sutton: 'The best team won' 03:10 - Guillem Balague's instant reaction 13:10 - Should Nico Williams' goal have been given? 15:25 - Donald Trump arrives onto the pitch 18:05 - Thoughts from Tim Vickery 26:30 - The presentations begin 31:20 - Rodri lifts the World Cup trophy
Jul 19, 2026 · 42 min
England's World Cup is over, but what comes next? Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by Guy Mowbray and Adam Crafton to reflect on England's third-place finish, ask whether more could have been done against Argentina in the semi-finals and discuss what the future looks like without players like Harry Kane, Jordan Pickford and John Stones. They also preview Spain v Argentina, discuss MetLife Stadium and New York's embrace of the World Cup, while Rick and Lloyd swap stories from Times Square, the cinema with Guillem Balague and a trip to M&M World with Paul Robinson.
Jul 18, 2026 · 38 min
The World Cup final is almost here, and Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by John Murray and Chris Sutton to debate the biggest talking points before football's biggest game. Can anyone stop Lionel Messi? Has the refereeing been good enough throughout the tournament? Does a Super Bowl-style half-time show belong at a World Cup final? And why is Chris convinced Americans genuinely mean it when they tell you to "have a good day"? Plus, Rick and Lloyd give their first impressions after arriving in New York ahead of the final.
Jul 16, 2026 · 48 min
Steve Crossman is joined by ESPN’s Julien Laurens, Guillem Balague & Nedum Onuoha as they dissect England's semi-final defeat against Argentina. They discuss Tuchel’s tactics and substitutions in the second half, his future as England head coach, and how this could be Harry Kane’s last World Cup in an England shirt. TIMECODES 4’23 - Should Thomas Tuchel remain England Manager? 8’00 - Jules on Tuchel not delivering his promises 14’14 - Should the responsibility be shared between the manager & the players? 15’43 - Should England have sat back when they did? 20’33 - Were the players being told to go for a second goal at 1-0 up? 24’40- Does Tuchel know the players well enough now to succeed? 32’47 - How England were playing like they were down to 10 players 35’50 - Will Tuchel be manager at the Euros? 38’25 - Have we just witnessed Harry Kane’s last World Cup? 44’20 - Can England gain anything from third place play off?
Jul 16, 2026 · 47 min
England's World Cup dream is over. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith react after England's heartbreaking semi-final defeat to Argentina, reflecting on the emotions after the final whistle, the key moments that decided the game and why they're left frustrated by Thomas Tuchel's decisions. ESPN's Mark Ogden joins to assess the substitutions, the criticism facing Tuchel and what comes next for England after falling short of the World Cup final. Plus, CBS' Nico Cantor gives the Argentinian perspective on the victory, as he and Lloyd debate football culture, the so-called 'dark arts' and why Argentina believe doing whatever it takes to win is simply part of the game. And after five unforgettable weeks in Los Angeles, Rick and Lloyd say goodbye to LA before heading to New York for the final stages of the tournament.
Jul 16, 2026 · 49 min
Relive the atmosphere and instant reaction from 5 Live at full-time as England were knocked out of the World Cup by Argentina. Kelly Cates is joined by correspondent John Murray, ex-England players Paul Robinson and Matt Upson as well as South American football expert Tim Vickery. They ask whether England's defensive strategy after taking the lead cost them the game, and look at how the team bounces back following this defeat, with a bronze medal match against France still to come. We also hear from Tuchel, as well as captain Harry Kane and defender Dan Burn. TIMECODES 00:30 On the whistle reaction as England lose to Argentina. 14:30 Did Tuchel's tactics cost England? 18:35 Harry Kane interview with Kelly Somers 30:30 Argentina v Spain in the Final 33:00 England's next task - prepare to face France 35:00 Dan Burn interview with John Murray 39:00 Thomas Tuchel interview
Jul 15, 2026 · 25 min
England manager Thomas Tuchel, along with players Ezri Konsa, Marc Guéhi and John Stones, speak to John Murray ahead of England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina. They discuss how England can exploit Argentina’s weaknesses while also dealing with the threat posed by Lionel Messi. John is joined by former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson to assess how England are likely to set up and whether they have what it takes to overcome the reigning world champions. 2’18 - Start of Thomas Tuchel interview 2’38 - Tuchel on player availability & how they’ll get at Argentina 4’30 - Tuchel on Argentina bringing the best out in England 6’03 - How does Tuchel deal with pressure? 8’33 - Ezri Konsa interview 10’28 - Paul Robinson on who will play at right back 12’11 - Marc Guehi interview 13’16 - Guehi on the challenge of Messi & how much Guardiola referenced him 14’50 - John Stones on his journey for England at World Cups 17’40 - Stones on what he can take from winning the last two Euro’s semi-finals 20’08 - Paul Robinson on forward options 21’48 - Will Declan Rice play?
Jul 15, 2026 · 47 min
Wayne Rooney joins Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith ahead of England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina. He explains why Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane are so important to this England side, why he likes seeing Thomas Tuchel and Bellingham challenge each other, reflects on similar moments from his own career and even shares how musicals help him switch off before the biggest occasions. Rooney also shares a brilliant story about pranking Sir Alex Ferguson alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. Plus, Julien Laurens reacts after Spain knocked out France to reach the World Cup final and explains why they now look like the team to beat.
Jul 14, 2026 · 13 min
England captain Harry Kane speaks to BBC Sport ahead of England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina. He talks about the comments made by manager Thomas Tuchel after the quarter-final win against Norway, Jude Bellingham's response, his partnership with Bellingham and whether England can rewrite history and beat Argentina to reach the World Cup final. 0’25 - How he feels about being one game away from World Cup Final 0’52 - How does he assess England’s tournament so far? 1’45 - How were Tuchel’s comments post Norway received in the dressing room? 2’57 - Jude Bellingham’s response to Tuchel’s comments 5’00 - His partnership with Jude Bellingham 7’13 - What is Bellingham’s best position? 8’00 - Why he’s scored so many goals this season 10’41 - Can England rewrite history?
Jul 14, 2026 · 39 min
Ian Dennis was the very first guest on the podcast before the World Cup began, giving Rick and Lloyd some important advice before six weeks together in Los Angeles. Now he's back to find out how much of it they actually followed. Did they stick to the infamous 'pants rule'? What happened with the bedroom arrangements? And after all those big tournament moments... how is Denno feeling about his upcoming World Cup semi? Ian also looks ahead to all four semi-finalists, with France v Spain and England v Argentina on the horizon, before heading out to cover the biggest games of the tournament. Plus, Reverend and the Makers frontman Jon McClure joins the pod to talk about how Silence Is Talking became the unofficial anthem for England fans.
Jul 12, 2026 · 33 min
England are through to the World Cup semi-finals... and now Argentina await. Rick Edwards is joined by John Murray to reflect on England's quarter-final victory over Norway, the performance that booked their place in the semis and why Rick wanted a showdown with Argentina instead of Switzerland. Lloyd Griffith also joins from Miami after experiencing the match as a fan, giving his take on England's performance, the incredible atmosphere inside the stadium, the relentless heat and what one USA supporter shouted at him during the game. Can England take one more step towards the World Cup final?
Jul 11, 2026 · 14 min
England manager Thomas Tuchel and captain Harry Kane speak to John Murray ahead of England's World Cup quarter-final against Norway. Tuchel says England still have "another gear" to find, while Kane explains why the squad's experience could be key to reaching the semi-finals. John is also joined by former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson to assess England's chances, compare Kane v Haaland, and discuss why England may have the stronger all-round team. 0’43 - Paul Robinson looking ahead to Norway 2’39 - Thomas Tuchel interview 3’16 - How do England make their knockout stage experience count? 3’59 - Tuchel on how England still have another gear and not yet at same level as in qualifying 5’08 - Tuchel on how he can make a difference at this stage of a tournament 6’16 - Paul Robinson on England players with competitive experience at this stage 7’47 - Harry Kane on the high of Mexico win 9’12 - Kane on the experience of being at these tournaments 9’51 - Kane v Haaland 11’48 - Paul Robinson on Harry Kane being a ‘superhero character’
Jul 11, 2026 · 40 min
Spain are through to a mouthwatering World Cup semi-final against France. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by Guillem Balague and Stephen Warnock after watching Spain's win over Belgium in LA to discuss why Spain keep finding a way to win, whether Lamine Yamal has reached the heights everyone expected and why France now awaits in one of the ties of the tournament. The boys also look ahead to England's quarter-final against Norway, with all eyes on the battle between Harry Kane and Erling Haaland. Plus, Guillem casually reveals he has Lionel Messi's email address... and even gives Rick and Lloyd a glimpse.
Jul 10, 2026 · 12 min
England Assistant Manager Anthony Barry speaks with our senior football reporter Ian Dennis ahead of their quarter-final match against Norway. He shares his thoughts on Jarell Quansah's two-match ban for his red card against Mexico and talks about the dynamic between him with Thomas Tuchel, the team spirit and what lies ahead with Norway. 0’11 – Thoughts on Jarrell Quansah suspension 0’46 – 20 years ago on from helping Accrington Stanley win National League 2’20 – The team spirit shown in Mexico and gaining focus for Norway 3’50 – The brotherhood within the England team & preparing to go all the way 6’18 – The dynamic between him and Thomas Tuchel 8’39 – The challenge of Norway that lies ahead and similarities to England 10’06 – Do they dare to dream at this point?
Jul 10, 2026 · 33 min
France are through to the World Cup semi-finals... but is there anyone left who can stop them? Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by Alistair Bruce-Ball after commentating on France's win over Morocco to break down another dominant display, Kylian Mbappé's penalty miss and the fascinating debate around stuttering versus non-stuttering run-ups from the penalty spot. Plus, Lloyd takes in some of LA's cathedrals where an unexpected encounter with a nun leaves him baffled, the boys discover the local Mexican food might be a little too spicy for them, and yesterday's Norwegian delicacies make an unexpected return.
Jul 9, 2026 · 46 min
John Murray, Ian Dennis and Ali Bruce-Ball catch up ahead of the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals. John reflects on another amazing experience at the Azteca where he witnessed England grind out a 3-2 win over Mexico to reach the quarter-finals. Ian tells us what it was like being at the 'match of the tournament' - Argentina v Cape Verde. And has Ali possibly just eaten the best bowl of pasta in his life? They're also joined by special guest engineer Rob as he lifts the curtain on how things work behind the scenes at stadiums on match day. Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome throughout the tournament on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk . 2’09 - The best bowl of pasta Ali has ever eaten? 3’25 - John being recognised far and wide 5’20 - England media day sausage rolls & interviewing Dan Burn 6’26 - John's reflections on England v Mexico 8’30 - Behind the scenes at the Azteca 10’13 - Seeing Jordan Henderson on a stretcher and interviewing Kane 12’31 - Ian witnessing Argentina v Cape Verde 16’19 - The performance of African teams at the World Cup 20’46 - Listener correspondence 23’41 - Engineer Rob talking microphones and behind the scenes 28'47 - Uncle Ian's advice to beer flying 30’58 - Unintended pub names 37’57 - John’s case of mistaken identity 39’37 - John’s tribute to Malcolm Wright 42’08 - How is Ian getting on with Chris Sutton?
Jul 9, 2026 · 29 min
What should England expect from Norway? Ahead of the World Cup quarter-final, Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined in Santa Monica by Norwegian fans Erik Steigen and Henning Gabrielsen, who bring a little bit of home to LA. They explain the Erling Haaland effect, why football has never been bigger in Norway, how confident Norwegians are of beating England and what this team means back home. Plus, Rick and Lloyd put their taste buds to the test with Norwegian chocolate, flatbread topped with caviar paste and mayonnaise, and perhaps the most divisive of the lot... mackerel in tomato sauce.
Jul 8, 2026 · 37 min
Argentina came from 2-0 down with just 11 minutes remaining to beat Egypt 3-2... but the biggest talking point afterwards was VAR. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by the BBC's Football Issues Correspondent Dale Johnson to dissect the controversial decisions that overshadowed an extraordinary comeback and ask whether Egypt were denied a famous victory. Stephen Warnock is alongside the boys to break down one of the most dramatic matches of the World Cup, reflect on Switzerland's penalty shootout win over Colombia and continue the never-ending search for the perfect football pun. Plus, Stephen turns up with a surprise present for Lloyd... a toy fire engine.
Jul 7, 2026 · 45 min
The USA's World Cup is over after a 4-1 defeat to Belgium. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton from the stadium to react to the hosts' dramatic exit, the fallout from Folarin Balogun's controversial red-card suspension and the debate surrounding Donald Trump's call to FIFA over the decision. NBA player for the Cleveland Cavaliers and part owner of Leeds, Larry Nance Jr, reflects on what this World Cup has meant for football in the United States and whether the tournament has left a lasting legacy. Plus, Guillem Balague looks back on the end of Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career after Portugal's exit, reflecting on his extraordinary legacy and where he ranks among football's all-time greats.
Jul 6, 2026 · 39 min
England are through to the World Cup quarter-finals after surviving the game of the tournament so far. Goals, red cards, VAR drama and an unforgettable night at the Azteca Stadium had it all as Thomas Tuchel's side edged past Mexico in a last-16 classic. With Lloyd Griffith back from Las Vegas, he joins Rick Edwards and Dion Dublin to relive an extraordinary evening, break down how England overcame one of their toughest tests yet and ask what it means for their World Cup hopes. Plus, friend of the pod Greg James checks in, fresh from Taylor Swift's wedding, with a voice note from Brazil v Norway.
Jul 5, 2026 · 36 min
Can England cope with Mexico? With Lloyd Griffith still in Las Vegas, Dion Dublin joins Rick Edwards to preview England's last-16 clash and ask whether they can handle the heat, altitude and atmosphere at the iconic Azteca Stadium. BBC Sport's senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel brings the latest from England camp, while Moroccan football journalist Amine El Mari explains why Morocco believe they can upset France and continue their World Cup story. Plus, a voice note arrives from Steve in Gillingham... or does it?
Jul 4, 2026 · 20 min
We're now more than half way through the World Cup and Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith have quite rightly earned themselves a day off, so here's a chance to listen back to some of their best moments on the podcast so far. TIMECODES: 0'27 - Lloyd's opening question in the BBC's first interview with an England player 4'40 - Rick & Lloyd on a tandem bike 8'37 - Steve Bracknall's appearance England v Croatia 13'42 - Ronaldo Humble Pie
Jul 3, 2026 · 39 min
World Cup winner and Spain's record goalscorer, David Villa, joins Rick Edwards to reflect on Spain's impressive 2-0 win over Austria and explains why he believes they can go all the way at this World Cup. The former Spain striker also discusses Mikel Oyarzabal's importance to this team, shares memories of playing alongside Lionel Messi and reveals what it takes to win football's biggest prize. With Lloyd Griffith away in Las Vegas, Guillem Balague and Dion Dublin join Rick to analyse Spain's latest statement victory and debate the dramatic finish to Portugal's clash with Croatia after a late equaliser was ruled out by VAR. TIMECODES: 0’00 - Guillem Balague alongside Rick 1’53 - David Villa on Mikel Oyarzabal 4’33 - David Villa on Golden Boot 6’09 - On what it was like to play with Lionel Messi 7’22 - What does he think on this Spain team? 8’50 - A word on England “I believe in them” 9’20 - On the new ball for strikers 17’40 - Dion joins to recap the Spain game & Portugal v Croatia madness
Jul 2, 2026 · 39 min
Harry Kane came to England's rescue to send Thomas Tuchel's side into the World Cup last 16 - but the biggest challenge may be what's waiting next. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by John Murray to reflect on England's dramatic win before turning their attention to a mouthwatering last-16 tie against Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium. FOX Sports commentator Rodolfo Landeros gives the view from Mexico: do they fear England, how big is home advantage, and what can England expect from the altitude, the heat and one of football's most famous atmospheres? Plus, Rick and Lloyd relive the moment their neighbour knocked on the door just two minutes after Harry Kane's winner - not to complain, but to borrow some vanilla extract. TIMECODES 2’00 - Rick & Lloyd get interrupted during the football… for some vanilla extract 5’40 - John Murray joins the pod 22’40 - Mexican football commentator Rodolfo Landeros tells us what to expect from Mexico 30’30 - Was Florin Balogun’s red card fair? 35’30 - Lloyd doesn’t like the listeners’ ‘pun’ suggestions
Jul 1, 2026 · 40 min
What does it mean to captain the USA at a home World Cup? Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith sit down with Tim Ream to talk about leading the United States, the responsibility of wearing the armband, the legacy this team hopes to leave behind and whether he'll keep his famous blonde hair if the USA win the World Cup. The Athletic's Laurie Whitwell joins to look back on another day in the last 16 as Norway, France and Mexico all book their places in the quarter-finals, while Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé continue their tournaments with more goals. They also look ahead to England's knockout tie with DR Congo. Plus, Rick and Lloyd discuss which celebrity they can replace on the 'star wall' in the pub.
Jun 30, 2026 · 37 min
Germany and the Netherlands are both out of the World Cup after dramatic penalty shootout defeats. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by Raphael Honigstein to react to Germany's shock exit to Paraguay, ask where it all went wrong and discuss what comes next. Humphrey Ker also drops by to talk Wrexham, life working across the UK and USA, and how he spotted Switzerland's John Manzambi a few years ago and wanted to sign him. Plus, Brazil and Morocco book their place in the last 16 and Rick and Lloyd reflect on Cody Gakpo's emotional goal celebration for the Netherlands following a difficult week off the pitch. TIMECODES 00’00 - Rick & Lloyd’s emotional reaction to Cody Gakpo’s goal 2’25 - Humphrey Ker joins the pod to talk a bit of Wrexham & USA 11’00 - Raphael Honigstein on Germany going out 25’00 - Netherlands crashing out to Morocco 32’00 - Brazil going out to Japan
Jun 29, 2026 · 31 min
Former Chelsea and Spain captain César Azpilicueta talks to Steve Crossman about playing with a young Lamine Yamal, his time at Chelsea with Reece James and Thomas Tuchel, and his early years at Marseille working under Didier Deschamps. TIMECODES: 05:21 – Working with Didier Deschamps at Marseille 12:45 – Lamine Yamal 21:08 – Reece James 23:57 – Thomas Tuchel
Jun 28, 2026 · 45 min
Steve Clarke has resigned as Scotland manager following their World Cup exit, with Eilidh Barbour joining Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith to react to the news and assess what went wrong for Scotland. England are through to the last 32 after a 2-0 win over Panama. Paul Robinson joins from the stadium to break down another slightly underwhelming performance, with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham again central to the result to get the job done. The Athletic's Adam Crafton looks ahead to England’s knockout tie with DR Congo and runs through the standout fixtures from an exciting last 32 line-up. Plus, Rick and Lloyd discuss the Nigerian goalkeeper who’s taken over everyone’s algorithms despite not being at the World Cup, and Lloyd shares a story from his time working in DR Congo on an old job.
Jun 27, 2026 · 41 min
What could hosting the World Cup mean for football in the United States? Rick Edwards is back from his backgammon adventures to join Lloyd Griffith as Fulham's owner, Tony Khan, shares his perspective on the tournament, discusses the legacy it could leave in the USA and gives an update on Fulham following Marco Silva's departure. Guillem Balague joins to react to one of the biggest shocks of the World Cup as Cape Verde reach the knockout stages and Uruguay crash out. Plus, France impress again, Ousmane Dembélé fires himself into the Golden Boot race with a hat-trick, and Rick and Lloyd relive their morning kickabout where Lloyd finally got on the scoresheet thanks to an assist from Rick.
Jun 26, 2026 · 33 min
Ecuador are through to the World Cup knockout stages for the first time in 20 years after a 2-1 win over Germany. With Rick Edwards away at a backgammon competition, Betty Glover steps into to co-host alongside Lloyd Griffith to wrap up another dramatic day at the World Cup where calculators are out as Scotland's knockout hopes go down to the wire. Mario Melchiot joins to reflect on Ecuador's historic victory, explain what makes the Azteca Stadium such a special place to play and looks ahead to the Netherlands' tasty last-32 tie with Morocco. Plus, Betty shares her first impressions of World Cup life in Los Angeles.
Jun 25, 2026 · 17 min
Mark Chapman is joined by the Mayor of New York City Zohran Mamdani. They discuss the USA team's start to the World Cup, the experience for fans and the potential challenges of President Trump attending the World Cup final. They also speak about the impact New York Knicks' Championship win has had on the City. He shares his thoughts on the newly elected Makerfield MP Andy Burnham and whether the skills of being a city mayor are transferrable into leading the country. And who knew the Mayor of New York City would have such a love for English cricket... and chess? 0’30 - His thoughts on how the USA national side have started the World Cup 1’50 - How the Knicks Championship win has changed New York City & how he priorities sport as a politician 6’48 - The honesty in the Knicks speech he gave 8’54 - Is he happy with how the World Cup is going from a fans perspective? 10’06 - His thoughts on transport prices 11’10 - Will New York benefit from having a World Cup? 12’54 - The potential challenges of President Trump attending the World Cup final 13’30 - Well wishes for Andy Burnham & whether the skills of being a city mayor can be transferred nationally 14’43 - His love for chess & English cricket
Jun 25, 2026 · 51 min
John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball get together to chat for the first time at the FIFA World Cup. They reflect on their experiences covering matches at the tournament so far, from John's sausage bun in Boston to Ian going viral for his review of MetLife Stadium. Ali also discusses commentating on Lionel Messi’s record-breaking goal, which saw him become the highest goalscorer in World Cup history. Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome throughout the tournament on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 1’52 - marks out of ten for the World Cup so far 2’20 - Ian being in New Jersey for the Knicks winning the Championship 4’04 - John’s experience at the Azteca 9’00 - Difficulty picking out the players in the big stadiums 10’03 - When Denno missed a substitution in the Atlanta stadium & going viral in America 13’00 - the atmosphere in the stadiums 15’24 - John’s sausage bun in Boston 19’20 - Commentating in stormy conditions 23’07 - Thoughts on England so far at the World Cup 26’38 - Who will start against Panama? 29’40 - Ian’s hack on getting to the Metlife stadium & Americanisms 34’25 - The best teams they’ve seen so far & keeping up to date 37’24 - Ali commentating on Messi’s record breaking World Cup goal 40’57 - Listeners correspondence 45’30 - Unintended pub names
Jun 25, 2026 · 36 min
Scotland's World Cup hopes are looking more unlikely after defeat to Brazil, but is there still a way through? Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by Kasper Schmeichel to assess Scotland's position and discuss the mindset needed when a tournament doesn't go according to plan. The former Denmark goalkeeper explains how players recover from mistakes on the biggest stage, why the World Cup ball has become such a talking point among goalkeepers and what makes every goalkeeper different. Lloyd also reveals to Kasper that he collects goalkeeper gloves, including several worn by Kasper's father, Peter Schmeichel. Plus, Rick and Lloyd answer your questions on everything from Lloyd's singing and their gym sessions to their favourite game of the World Cup so far.
Jun 24, 2026 · 33 min
England were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Ghana, but is there any reason to panic? Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by Stephen Warnock to react to England's latest World Cup outing. Why did Thomas Tuchel's side struggle to break Ghana down, and what can they learn from facing a stubborn low block? The team also discuss a difficult night for Harry Kane and what the result means for England's hopes of topping the group. Scotland have a huge clash coming up with Brazil and Eilidh Barbour joined to give the latest from Scotland camp and asks... can Scotland make history? Plus, Rick and Lloyd are forced to eat their humble pie after Cristiano Ronaldo finally found his World Cup scoring touch with two goals for Portugal. And an innocent trip to the toilets takes an awkward turn when Lloyd's attempt at a prank goes badly wrong.
Jun 23, 2026 · 34 min
Messi, Mbappé and Haaland all scored twice on a day dominated by the World Cup’s biggest stars. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith react to another record-breaking night for Lionel Messi, who became the tournament’s all-time leading goalscorer, and discuss what it means for his place in football history. Julien Laurens joins to assess a huge day for the superstars, reflect on France’s dramatic win over Iraq and a 130-minute weather delay. Kelly Somers brings the latest from England camp ahead of their meeting with Ghana in Boston. Plus, Rick and Lloyd take on table tennis and Lloyd does a questionable Jamie Foxx impression.
Jun 22, 2026 · 36 min
Spain produced one of the performances of the World Cup so far as they swept aside Saudi Arabia 4-0, while Cape Verde continued their remarkable tournament with a shock draw against Uruguay. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith react to another big day at the World Cup and are joined by Elizabeth Conway from Atlanta, where she watched Spain's impressive victory and a standout display from Lamine Yamal. Will this be his tournament? The team also discuss Cape Verde's latest giant-killing result and what it means for one of the World Cup's surprise packages. Plus, Rick and Lloyd went to Belgium's match against Iran in Los Angeles alongside Dion Dublin and Conor McNamara, before comparing notes on how they spent their day off.
Jun 20, 2026 · 40 min
Scotland suffered a narrow defeat to Morocco, but their World Cup hopes remain firmly alive. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by Pat Nevin, fresh from the stadium, to reflect on an encouraging performance from Steve Clarke's side. What does the result mean for Scotland's hopes of reaching the knockout stages, and what can they take into a huge game against Brazil? South American football journalist Tim Vickery joins the pod to discuss the mood around Brazil after their win over Haiti and assess their chances of ending a 24-year wait for World Cup glory. Plus, the team react to the USA reaching the knockout stages, and Lloyd takes to the pitch for a football match of his own in Los Angeles.
Jun 19, 2026 · 42 min
Scotland face their biggest test of the World Cup so far as they prepare to take on Morocco. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by former Scotland international Charlie Adam to preview a huge match for Steve Clarke's side. German football journalist Raphael Honigstein joins Rick & Lloyd in Santa Monica to look back on the opening round of group games and separate the genuine contenders from the early overreactions. Are Spain already out of the running after their draw with Cape Verde? Should Portugal be worried? And will Cristiano Ronaldo ever score a World Cup goal? Raph also praises Thomas Tuchel's man management and reflects on the unique challenge of covering a tournament spread across three countries, before Rick and Lloyd discover that shopping in Beverly Hills can be a humbling experience.
Jun 18, 2026 · 33 min
England's World Cup campaign is up and running after a 4-2 victory over Croatia. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith react alongside Paul Robinson, who was at the stadium to witness England's opening win. The team discuss Jude Bellingham's standout display after admitting he had a chip on his shoulder heading into the tournament, while Harry Kane once again showed why he's England's talisman on the biggest stage. They are also joined by Royal Oak Sunday League manager Steve Bracknall, who made the trip to watch England at a World Cup for the very first time. Fresh from what he describes as the best day of his life, Steve shares his experiences of following the fans and soaking up the atmosphere around the match... from his bed. Plus, with Kane, Messi and Mbappé all on the scoresheet already, why is Cristiano Ronaldo still waiting for his first World Cup goal?
Jun 17, 2026 · 44 min
England's World Cup campaign is about to begin. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are joined by John Murray and Paul Robinson from Dallas, where Thomas Tuchel and Harry Kane have been speaking to the media ahead of England's opening match against Croatia. We hear from both of them and assess England's chances before they get their tournament under way. Before that, the team react to another historic night for Lionel Messi. He became the oldest player to score a World Cup hat-trick as he continues to rewrite the record books. Julien Laurens also joins the pod to react to France's 3-1 win over Senegal and discuss whether the French have what it takes to challenge for the trophy once again. Plus, Rick and Lloyd head out for lunch in LA, where Lloyd's promise to share his nachos doesn't quite go to plan.
Jun 16, 2026 · 30 min
France's all-time leading goalscorer Olivier Giroud speaks to Mark Chapman about winning the World Cup in 2018, Didier Deschamps and what Kylian Mbappe is like as a person amongst the French squad. On winning the World Cup, he talks about playing a selfless role in the team and not getting on the scoresheet at the tournament. He also reflects on his time at Arsenal and the amount of respect he has for Arsene Wenger, and how he knew Mikel Arteta would go onto become a manager. 0’15 - Is it strange watching the World Cup and not being there? 1’17 - Could he still play international football if he wanted to? 3’00 - How he told his friends he would win the World Cup one day 4’50 - What it was like meeting his heroes from France ’98 and respect for Didier Deschamps 7’30 - How he looks back on 2018 World Cup win and comeback against Argentina 9’50 - His ‘selfless’ role at 2018 World Cup and not scoring 15’15 - Relationship with Mbappe and that famous picture from 2022 against Poland 16’01 - What Mbappe is like as a person & France’s front line at the World Cup 17’40 - Arsene Wenger and Arsenal not winning the title his only career regret 20’39 - Mikel Arteta was a leader and was the link between Wenger and players 22’17 - How honest Arsene Wenger was in his move from Arsenal to Chelsea 25’50 - Does he marvel at current strikers and the amount of goals they score? 26’20 - Will Deschamps get the send off he deserves? 28’26 - Zidane to take over?
Jun 16, 2026 · 34 min
Cape Verde produce the shock of the World Cup so far after holding Spain to a goalless draw. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith react to a remarkable result and ask what went wrong for one of the tournament favourites. Guillem Balague joins the pod to assess Spain's performance, what needs to change and whether Cape Verde can build on a historic point. Guillem also discusses Egypt's Abdelkarim following his recent move to Barcelona and explains why he's one of the most exciting young talents at the tournament. BBC North America correspondent Shaimaa Khalil joins after attending Iran's World Cup match in Los Angeles. She reflects on the atmosphere around a highly anticipated fixture and what it was like to be there. Plus, Rick and Lloyd take on Santa Monica's bike paths on a tandem bike, but one of LA's rental bikes has some unexpected feedback for Lloyd.
Jun 15, 2026 · 42 min
Jordan Pickford joins Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith from England camp ahead of their opening game. Lloyd is reunited with his self-proclaimed mate, while New Zealand goalkeeper Max Crocombe, also joins from his team's training camp to discuss life at the tournament and preparing for their highly anticipated opening game against Iran. Back in Santa Monica, former Netherlands defender Mario Melchiot joins Rick and Lloyd in Ye Olde King's Head. They reflect on the Netherlands' 2-2 draw with Japan, discuss Germany's 7-1 win over Curaçao and Mario offers some local knowledge as the pair continue to find their feet in Los Angeles.
Jun 14, 2026 · 31 min
Scotland's first World Cup match in 28 years ends with a win. Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith react to a huge 1-0 victory over Haiti alongside former Scotland international Charlie Adam, who talks about what the result means and whether Steve Clarke's side can build on a dream start to the tournament. They also look back on Brazil's opening match against Morocco and ask whether Brazil still carry the same aura they once did. Who are the stars carrying this team and where do they sit among the tournament favourites? And Qatar pick up their first ever World Cup point, Switzerland benefit from a major offside controversy after the semi-automated system failed, and Rick and Lloyd report back from a trip to the legendary Gold's Gym in Los Angeles.
Jun 13, 2026 · 34 min
Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith have been to their first World Cup match. The pair were in Los Angeles to watch the USA's opening game, a chaotic 4-1 win over Paraguay that featured goals, drama and one of the most bizarre and confusing cases of a yellow card you'll ever see. Joined by ESPN's Mark Ogden, Rick and Lloyd compare notes on their first World Cup matchday experience in the States. From the chants and atmosphere to the food, drinks, sights and smells around the stadium, what is it really like to watch football at a World Cup in America? Plus, content creators Woody and Kleiny drop by to tell us about their remarkable journey following England across the tournament. Travelling thousands of miles together by bus, whilst live streaming 24/7, to raise awareness for prostate cancer, they explain why they're taking on the challenge and how they're going to manage living in such close quarters.
Jun 12, 2026 · 27 min
Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith are finally in LA. Broadcasting from their Santa Monica base, they discuss their first few days living together, settling into life in California and discovering that, despite the World Cup being underway, there isn't quite the tournament buzz they expected. So how are American sports fans reacting? Is football fever about to arrive? Plus, John Murray joins from the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City after the hosts' opening match in one of the World Cup's most iconic settings. Timecodes: 00:00 - Welcome to the World Cup & Los Angeles 04:43 - Lack of World Cup Enthusiasm in Los Angeles 10:27 - John Murray Gets Leaked On in Azteca Stadium 15:26 - Sombreros in the Stadium 19:08 - John Murray on the vibe in Mexico City 23:34 - Look Forward to US Opening Game
Jun 7, 2026 · 36 min
The last time the World Cup was on North American soil in 1994, many football fans were sceptical. But it planted the seed of America’s soccer culture today, and it has lived long in the memory of two nations in particular. Rick Edwards is joined by Brazil fan Edson and two Ireland fans - Rodney and Phelim - who all travelled to the United States. They describe a sometimes underwhelming atmosphere gripped by the stifling heat, but punctuated with unforgettable moments for their teams. 02:20 - Expectations of the US 1994 World Cup 05:00 - The lack of a ‘soccer culture’ 8:10 - Edson growing up watching Brazil 10:07 - Ireland coming up against Roberto Baggio’s Italy 16:35 - The excruciating heat 18:40 - John Aldridge’s famous outburst 20:40 - Why things ended in disappointment for the Irish 22:50 - An unconventional Brazil team 25:20 - Brazil vs Netherlands 27:10 - Phelim and Rodney causing chaos in Fort Lauderdale 29:15 - Brazil and Ireland welcomed home 32:30 - The significance of the 1994 World Cup for both nations
Jun 6, 2026 · 45 min
Russia 2018 was the World Cup that changed everything for England. In one summer alone, the mood changed, the pressure lifted, and arguably for the first time since Euro 1996, the fans fell in love with the England men’s national team once more. To look back on that time, Rick Edwards is joined by Ceylon, Seb and Dan, who were swept along by it – so much so, that two of them ended up in Moscow for that fateful semi-final. They share their stories and emotions from a truly special summer. 01:46 - Pre-tournament expectations for the 2018 World Cup 06:30 - A new relationship with the England team 12:08 - England hitting Panama for six 15:20 - The Colombia game and England’s first shootout victory at a World Cup 17:55 - What Gareth Southgate got so right in those early years 22:36 - Seb and Dan’s journey to the semi-final 27:30 - How the semi-final vs Croatia unfolded 30:40 - The feeling after England’s defeat 33:53 - A new relationship with Englishness 39:40 - The legacy of this World Cup
Jun 5, 2026 · 54 min
John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball answer listener questions ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. From preparing for foreign player pronunciations, to the matches they’re most looking forward to. And from logistical travel arrangements to their favourite national anthems. Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome throughout the tournament on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 00:30 John prepares for Mexico, 03:00 International commentary styles, 07:25 Preparing for player pronunciations, 16:40 First World Cup memories, 21:30 Is World Cup prep different? 30:45 Which matches are they most excited for? 34:00 Which cities are they most excited to visit? 36:55 Favourite national anthems & fanbases, 40:50 Thoughts on sharing commentaries, 42:40 Will the commentators be working in teams? 48:00 What does a rare summer off look like? 50:20 Will there be a World Cup TCV? 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Fri 2000 Spain v England in Women’s World Cup qualifying, Sat 2100 England v New Zealand in friendly, Tue 2000 England v Ukraine in Women’s World Cup qualifying, Thu 2000 Mexico v South Africa, Fri 0300 South Korea v Czech Republic, Fri 2000 Canada v Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Jun 3, 2026 · 37 min
When England flew to Germany for the 2006 World Cup, expectations were at fever pitch for a star-studded team led by David Beckham. The so-called Golden Generation was ready to deliver. But it never happened – instead came a series of heartbreaks and disappointments that left the fanbase in despair. Rick Edwards is joined by Sharon, Billy and Gary, three fans who probably suffered through more games than anyone else during the Golden Generation. They reflect on their incredible experiences at different tournaments, but also the growing sense of a team that felt further away from the fans than ever before. 02:24 - How optimistic were England fans going into the 2006 World Cup? 04:31 - Sharon, Billy and Gary’s experiences on the ground in Germany 11:10 - England meet Portugal in the quarter-finals again 13:12 - Owen Hargreaves & underappreciated members of the Golden Generation 17:30 - England at South Africa World Cup 2010 19:15 - Wayne Rooney hitting back at the fans & disconnection with the team 25:03 - The end of the Golden Generation 27:30 - Disaster at Brazil World Cup 2014 29:52 - Reflecting on this era 32:55 - The beauty of following England on the road
Jun 2, 2026 · 39 min
In June 1998, Scotland kicked off the World Cup in Paris against the defending champions, Brazil. For the fans that were there, it was a day that they would never forget - and one that’s become Scottish football folklore after years of heartbreak. Rick Edwards is joined by Gordon, Paul and Iain to hear about that halcyon summer following their team across France and what marked the end of an era. 02:18 - Remembering the Scotland squad that qualified for the 1998 World Cup 05:10 - Being in the Tartan Army throughout the 70s, 80s & 90s 10:00 - Tartan Armies in other countries 13:37 - Scotland face Brazil in the opening game 17:30 - Iain “borrowing” the flag at Bannockburn 20:00 - Kick-off in the Stade de France 22:20 - That Tom Boyd own goal 25:08 - Taking on Norway in Bordeaux 27:45 - Disaster in the final game against Morocco 30:05 - The end of an era for Scotland 34:03 - Fond memories of France in 1998 37:04 - Looking ahead to World Cup 2026 for Scotland
Jun 1, 2026 · 38 min
Meet your Football Daily World Cup team. Rick Edwards and comedian Lloyd Griffith will be with you every day throughout the tournament from their base in Los Angeles, taking you along for the journey and bringing you closer to the biggest stories from this year's World Cup. Before they head off, the pair are joined by commentator Ian Dennis to find out what tournament life is really like. How do you live and work together for six weeks? How do you cope with the heat, time zones and changing routines? And what do they need to know about each other before they board the plane? With advice from a man who's covered major tournaments around the world, plus some revealing voice notes from their partners, Rick and Lloyd get ready for six weeks in the US together.
May 31, 2026 · 43 min
No World Cup has left us with more iconic images than Italia ‘90. For England fans, it remains the tournament that truly got away, encapsulated by Paul Gascoigne’s tears in the semi-final against West Germany. Rick Edwards is joined by Mark and Andy - two England fans who went to 1990 and never looked back, attending hundreds of England games ever since - and Neal, a Welshman who was swept up with the Tartan Army after arriving in Italy with no money and no plan. Together, they look back on the myths and the realities of the 1990 World Cup. TIMECODES 01:50 - The mythical quality of Italia ‘90 04:00 - Anticipation around England 08:50 - Why this was a unique World Cup on the ground for fans 15:22 - England’s terrible group stage 19:20 - England fans on Sardinia 21:40 - Taking on Belgium and Cameroon 27:10 - England’s famous night in Turin vs West Germany 31:10 - Andy’s journey to the World Cup final 34:02 - The enduring legacy of Italia 90 40:50 - What changed from USA ‘94
May 29, 2026 · 1 hr 1 min
John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball look ahead to the UEFA Champions League Final. Also hear John’s sit-down interview with Gareth Southgate actor, Joseph Fiennes, from new BBC drama Dear England. And who will win the Clash of the Commentators title decider? Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 01:00 John in Budapest ahead of UCL Final, 03:20 Ali back from Leipzig after Palace win Conference League, 10:30 Ian prepares to cross the Atlantic… 12:20 PSG v Arsenal preview, 20:45 Premier League final day reflections, 22:40 Nuno stays at West Ham, 24:50 Ali’s special treatment at Bournemouth, 28:20 Interview with Gareth Southgate actor Joseph Fiennes, 47:35 Cheesy pub name & more dogs into the TCV XI, 52:50 Clash of the Commentators title decider! 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1300 Scotland v Curaçao in Friendly, Sat 1700 PSG v Arsenal in UCL Final, Sun 1500 Brighton & Hove v Man City in Women’s FA Cup Final.
May 22, 2026 · 49 min
John Murray, Ian Dennis & Sami Mokbel react to Thomas Tuchel’s England squad ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. They also have their say on Arsenal winning the Premier League, Manchester City confirming Pep Guardiola’s departure and Manchester United confirming Michael Carrick as head coach. Plus there are additions to the TCV Dog XI and more suggestions for the Great Glossary of Football Commentary. Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 01:05 Initial thoughts on Tuchel’s squad, 06:45 Arsenal fans celebrate title, 08:55 Hasta luego Pep Guardiola, 11:00 Carrick confirmed as United boss, 17:10 Thomas Tuchel interview, 22:35 Ivan Toney a surprise selection? 25:30 5 Live commentaries this weekend, 32:45 An addition to the TCV Dog XI? 35:35 Unintended pub name from sport commentary, 38:20 Great Glossary of Football Commentary, 40:50 Chris Sutton goes all S Club 7… 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Dunfermline v Celtic in Scottish Cup Final on Sports Extra, Sun 1600 Spurs v Everton, Sun 1600 West Ham v Leeds on Sports Extra, Sun 1600 Crystal Palace v Arsenal on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1600 Brighton v Man Utd on Sports Extra 3. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE 50p head Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Backside and elbows, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Caretaker manager, Channel of joy, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head like a biscuit tin, Head like a sheriff’s badge, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Lollipop, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Parachute payment, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Postage stamp, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Taking it to the corner flag, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Asterisk, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Banana skin, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere, Champagne is on ice, Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, Drop zone, Drubbing, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Goalkeepers’ Union, Going down in installments, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Grandstand finish, Half-time in the tie, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Lackadaisical, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Managerless X, Mazy run, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Needing snookers, Nice headache to have, No-look pass, Nutmeg, On the beach, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Piledriver*, Played us off the park, Points on the board, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Queensbury rules, Reaches for their pocket, Relegation six-pointer, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Sent into raptures, Show across the bows, Sleeping giant, Slide-rule pass, Staving off relegation, Steal a march, Sting the palms, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Tricky winger, Turning into a cricket score, Turns on a sixpence, Twisted blood, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands, We were right behind that, Yo-yo club.
May 15, 2026 · 54 min
John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball talk Spygate, VAR and look ahead to the FA Cup Final. There’s Clash of the Commentators controversy as ‘CAS’ gets in touch. There are more unintended pub names from sport commentary and suggestions for the Great Glossary of Football Commentary. Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 01:00 Ali been to Scotland for the title race, 03:15 ‘They need to strip back VAR’, 07:55 The return of the Reeces, 10:30 An ABBA earworm from Herr Chapman? 13:50 5 Live commentaries this weekend, 14:55 FA Cup Final date ‘not as it should be’, 18:05 Unintended pub names from commentary, 19:10 Spygate allegations discussion, 29:20 Munchgate reaches a conclusion… 33:55 Can Ian respond in Clash of the Commentators? 40:30 Great Glossary of Football Commentary. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1230 Celtic v Hearts, Sat 1500 Man City v Chelsea in FA Cup Final, Sun 1500 Leeds v Brighton, Sun 1500 Brentford v Crystal Palace on Sports Extra, Sun 1730 Newcastle v West Ham. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE 50p head Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Backside and elbows, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Channel of joy, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head like a biscuit tin, Head like a sheriff’s badge, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Lollipop, Magic of the FA Cup, Managerless X, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Parachute payment, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Postage stamp, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Taking it to the corner flag, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Asterisk, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Banana skin, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere, Champagne is on ice, Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, Drop zone, Drubbing, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Goalkeepers’ Union, Going down in installments, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-time in the tie, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Lackadaisical, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Mazy run, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Needing snookers, Nice headache to have, No-look pass, Nutmeg, On the beach, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Piledriver*, Played us off the park, Points on the board, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Queensbury rules, Reaches for their pocket, Relegation six-pointer, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Sent into raptures, Show across the bows, Sleeping giant, Slide-rule pass, Staving off relegation, Steal a march, Sting the palms, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Tricky winger, Turning into a cricket score, Turns on a sixpence, Twisted blood, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands, We were right behind that, Yo-yo club.
May 13, 2026 · 59 min
In a special episode of The Commentators' View presented by Kelly Cates, John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball look back at their moments of the 2025/26 season so far. Timecodes: 2'00 - Sunderland beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge 9'00 - Manchester City win at Anfield 15'00 - Rangers beat Hearts 4-2 20'00 - Bodo/Glimt beat Man City in the Champions League 32'00 - Liverpool get knocked out of the Champions League by PSG 36'00 - Arsenal beating Athletic Club in Bilbao 42'50 - Macclesfield knock the holders Crystal Palace out of the FA Cup 48'52 - Man City win the League Cup 51'50 - Manchester United beat Liverpool Commentaries this week: 16th May – 1230 – Celtic v Hearts – Scottish Premiership 16th May – 1500 – Manchester City v Chelsea – FA Cup Final 17th May – 1500 – Leeds v Brighton – Premier League 17th May – 1500 – Brentford v Crystal Palace – Premier League 17th May – 1730 – Newcastle United v West Ham – Premier League
May 12, 2026 · 47 min
Play-off winners Tommy Smith, Lyle Taylor and Darrell Clarke are with Aaron Paul to celebrate 40 years of the play-offs. Former Sheffield Wednesday boss Darren Moore joins the pod to reflect on one of the greatest playoff games of the last 40 years, the ‘Miracle of Hillsborough’, when the Owls came from beat Peterborough 5-1 in the second leg to overcome a 4-0 first leg deficit and make it to the 2023 League One play-off final. Jobi McAnuff, Jed Wallace, Troy Deeney, and Phil Brown have sent voice notes to have their say too, remember you can send yours on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369. You can also vote on for your favourite on the BBC Sport website, just search: ‘Forty years of the EFL play-offs’ Timecodes: 09:38 – Jed Wallace voice note 10:30 – Darren Moore reflects on the 'Miracle of Hillsborough 23:52 – MID 24:38 – Jobi McAnuff voice note 26:26 – Troy Deeney voice note 31:50 – Phil Brown voice note 35:36 – Alex Bruce voice note 38:00 – Sam Parkin voice note 40:24 – Aaron McLean voice note 41:45 - Massimo Luongo voice note 43:06 – The future of the playoffs Commentaries this week: 13th May – 2000 – Hearts v Falkirk – Scottish Premiership 16th May – 1230 – Celtic v Hearts – Scottish Premiership 16th May – 1500 – Manchester City v Chelsea – FA Cup Final 17th May – 1500 – Leeds v Brighton – Premier League 17th May – 1500 – Brentford v Crystal Palace – Premier League 17th May – 1730 – Newcastle United v West Ham – Premier League
May 8, 2026 · 57 min
John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball react to European success for Arsenal, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace. Clash of the Commentators returns with Ian nearing the league title. There’s an ‘unintended food kiosk’ from sport commentary. And suggestions always welcome for the Great Glossary of Football Commentary - messages, questions and voicenotes on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 00:45 Villa beat Forest to reach Europa League Final, 04:10 Scottish title race hots up, 06:40 John uses his ‘mini Arsenal season-ticket’ again, 15:05 Commentaries of Man City & Arsenal this weekend, 18:45 TCV goes snooker loopy, 24:05 Unintended pub names from sport commentary, 31:20 Clash of the Commentators, 40:20 Breaking ‘Reece’ news, 42:05 Great Glossary of Football Commentary, 47:20 Rachel Riley or Carol Vorderman? 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1200 Aston Villa v Arsenal in WSL on Sports Extra, Sat 1500 Sunderland v Man Utd, Sat 1730 Man City v Brentford, Sun 1200 Celtic v Rangers, Sun 1400 Nottingham Forest v Newcastle United, Sun 1400 Burnley v Aston Villa on Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Crystal Palace v Everton on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1630 West Ham v Arsenal. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE 50p head Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Backside and elbows, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Channel of joy, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Lollipop, Magic of the FA Cup, Managerless X, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Parachute payment, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Postage stamp, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Taking it to the corner flag, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Asterisk, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Banana skin, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere, Champagne is on ice, Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, Drop zone, Drubbing, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Goalkeepers’ Union, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-time in the tie, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Lackadaisical, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Mazy run, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Needing snookers, Nice headache to have, No-look pass, Nutmeg, On the beach, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Piledriver*, Played us off the park, Points on the board, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Queensbury rules, Reaches for their pocket, Relegation six-pointer, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Sent into raptures, Show across the bows, Sleeping giant, Slide-rule pass, Staving off relegation, Steal a march, Sting the palms, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Tricky winger, Turning into a cricket score, Turns on a sixpence, Twisted blood, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands, We were right behind that, Yo-yo club.
May 2, 2026 · 29 min
Kelly Cates is joined by Wes Morgan, Robert Huth, Marc Albrighton & BBC Sport's Midlands reporter Nick Mashiter to discuss the remarkable rise and dramatic fall of Leicester City. Ten years on from their incredible Premier League title triumph, the former champions will begin next season in the third tier of English football. The panel reflect on the unforgettable 2015–16 campaign that stunned the football world, what went right both on and off the pitch, how things unravelled in the decade that followed and how the club can rebuild in League One next season. 01:00 – Tragedy 02:15 - Khun Vichai’s impact and legacy 04:40 – 2021 FA Cup Win 06:45 – Cracks start to form 09:45 – Change in transfer policy 13:30 – Financial issues 15:25 – Leicester City’s Seagrave training ground 16:40 – How can Leicester City recover? 21:00 – This season’s performances 22:15 – Pulling in the same direction 23:45 – Fan expectations for next season 26:00 – Robert Huth and Marc Albrighton’s final reflections
May 2, 2026 · 55 min
Kelly Cates is joined by Wes Morgan, Robert Huth, Marc Albrighton & BBC Sport's Midlands reporter Nick Mashiter to discuss the remarkable rise and dramatic fall of Leicester City. Ten years on from their incredible Premier League title triumph, the former champions will begin next season in the third tier of English football. The panel reflect on the unforgettable 2015–16 campaign that stunned the football world, what went right both on and off the pitch, and how things unravelled in the decade that followed. 04:30 - The 2015 Great Escape 05:50 - Hopes for 2015/16 06:39 – Leicester City's scout Steve Walsh 08:00 – Claudio Ranieri joins 12:10 – Signing N'Golo Kanté 14:20 – Jamie Vardy’s season 19:55 – Going out for pizza 22:30 – Riyad Mahrez 24:40 – Tricky New Year 28:20 – Consistency over January 31:00 – Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal in February 35:00 – Taking motivation from Arsenal loss 36:30 – King Power's ‘Earthquake’ 38:00 – Chance to win the title at Old Trafford 39:10 – Watching Chelsea v Spurs at Vardy's house 42:15 – Title celebrations 49:10 – Betting on Leicester City winning the title at 5000/1 51:40 – Stories from the title win 52:52 – The Foxes in the Champions League
May 1, 2026 · 51 min
John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball catch up on their travels and the language of football commentary. John has a whole book of stories from his trip to Madrid, Ali calls the best goal he’s commentated on, and viral York City commentator David Ward joins the pod. Race Across the World winner Alfie Watts joins in the travel conversation. Plus, there are more unintended pub names from sport commentary and suggestions for the Great Glossary of Football Commentary. Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 00:30 John’s back with a bang! 03:50 John’s eventful trip to Madrid, 10:00 Ali calls best goal he’s commentated on, 12:50 Spoilt with 5 Live commentaries next week, 17:20 Viral York City commentator joins the pod, 25:20 Unintended pub and film names, 29:25 Race Across the World winner Alfie pays a visit, 41:25 Great Glossary of Football Commentary, 48:00 John’s pre-match meal. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Brentford v West Ham with Ian Dennis & Andy Reid, Sat 1500 Newcastle v Brighton on Sports Extra, Sat 1730 Arsenal v Fulham with John Murray & Rob Green, Sun 1200 Man City v Liverpool in WSL with Chris Coles & Tash Dowie, Sun 1400 Bournemouth v Palace on Sports Extra, Sun 1530 Man Utd v Liverpool with Ali Bruce-Ball & Dion Dublin, Mon 1500 Chelsea v Forest with Lee Blakeman & Mark Schwarzer, Mon 1730 Hearts v Rangers with Ian Dennis & Pat Nevin, Tue 2000 Arsenal v Atletico with John Murray & Matt Upson, Wed 2000 Bayern v PSG with Conor McNamara & Chris Sutton, Thu 2000 Aston Villa v Forest with Ian Dennis & Dion Dublin. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Backside and elbows, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Channel of joy, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Half-time in the tie, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Lollipop, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Postage stamp, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Taking it to the corner flag, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep.
Apr 24, 2026 · 57 min
Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball are joined by legendary commentator John Helm to talk football, their travels and the language of football commentary. John takes us through his career, from doing 10 World Cups, to being the in-house commentator at League One champions Lincoln City this season. There are more unintended pub names from sport commentary and suggestions for the Great Glossary of Football Commentary. Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 02:00 Welcome to the pod John Helm! 05:10 How did John end up at Lincoln City? 09:35 5 Live commentaries this weekend, 15:45 Liam Rosenior removed from Chelsea, 18:30 Can Leeds get to the FA Cup Final? 20:50 How many games has John commentated on? 25:45 John talks about doing different sports, 28:00 John’s World Cup Final dressing room moment, 30:00 John reflects on commentating on the Bradford fire, 36:10 Unintended pub names, 41:10 John does his record-breaking read of the 92, 45:25 Great Glossary of Football Commentary. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1200 Brighton & Hove v Man City in WSL on Sports Extra, Sat 1500 Wolves v Spurs, Sat 1500 West Ham v Everton on Sports Extra, Sat 1715 Man City v S’hampton in FA Cup on Sports Extra, Sat 1730 Arsenal v Newcastle, Sun 1200 Everton vs Chelsea in WSL, Sun 1530 Arsenal v Lyon in UWCL on Sports Extra, Sun 1500 Chelsea v Leeds in FA Cup. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Backside and elbows, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Channel of joy, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Postage stamp, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Taking it to the corner flag, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Asterisk, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere, Champagne is on ice, Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Early bath, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, Drubbing, Finish with aplomb, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Goalkeepers’ Union, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Lackadaisical, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Magic sponge, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Needing snookers, Nice headache to have, No-look pass, Nutmeg, On the beach, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Piledriver*, Played us off the park, Points on the board, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Queensbury rules, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Sent into raptures, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Squeaky-bum time, Staving off relegation, Steal a march, Sting the palms, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands. We were right behind that.
Apr 22, 2026 · 38 min
Alistair Bruce-Ball is joined by Tim Krul, Nedum Onuoha, Curtis Davies and, Clinton Morrison as Manchester City go top of the Premier League following a 1-0 win at Burnley. The result leaves Pep Guardiola’s side level on points with Arsenal, but above on goals scored with just five games remaining of the season. Burnley are relegated to the Championship after just one season in the Premier League, the second time in a row they’ve come up and gone straight back down. What’s next for Burnley and for Scott Parker? Liam Rosenior has been sacked as Chelsea head coach after just 106 days in charge. It follows a run of five defeats without scoring, for the first time since 1912. Alistair Bruce-Ball reacts to the news with BBC Senior Football Correspondent Sami Mokbel, former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin, former team mate of Rosenior, Curtis Davies and, Chelsea fan Alex Churchill. The panel react to the issues at board level with Chelsea, what’s gone wrong, the news that Calum McFarlane will take charge until the end of the season and, what chance they have against Leeds in the FA Cup semi-final. TIME CODES: 00:00 Intro 00:20 Manchester City go top 09:10 Pep Guardiola post Burnley 11:27 Burnley relegated to the Championship 15:04 Scott Parker on relegation 17:29 Chelsea sack Liam Rosenior 20:17 Former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin reacts 23:50 Did recruitment fail? 25:44 Curtis Davies on having worked with Rosenior 27:40 What next for Chelsea? 29:45 Chelsea fan Alex Churchill 35:27 FA Cup semi-final against Leeds 5Live commentaries this week Sat 1200 Brighton & Hove v Man City in WSL on Sports Extra, Sat 1500 Wolves v Spurs in Premier League, Sat 1500 West Ham v Everton on Sports Extra, Sat 1715 Man City v Southampton in FA Cup semi-final on Sports Extra, Sat 1730 Arsenal v Newcastle in Premier League, Sun 1200 Everton vs Chelsea in WSL, Sun 1500 Chelsea v Leeds in FA Cup semi-final, Sun 1530 Arsenal v Lyon in UWCL on Sports Extra.
Apr 17, 2026 · 58 min
John Murray & Ali Bruce-Ball are joined by Vicki Sparks to talk Premier League, their travels and the language of football commentary. We’re back to league action with a tricky Clash of the Commentators. There are more unintended pub names from sport commentary and suggestions for the Great Glossary of Football Commentary. Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 01:45 Vicki in Iceland, 04:25 Lost phone & cheese ice cream in Bologna, 08:20 Ali’s commentary highlight of The Masters, 12:00 John reveals why he’s stepped away from The Masters, 13:40 Herr Chapman’s ‘bobby-dazzlers’, 15:20 Big weekend of commentaries on 5 Live, 15:50 John flips out at the ‘supercomputer’, 23:00 Man City v Arsenal preview, 29:45 Unintended pub names from sport commentary, 35:30 Clash of the Commentators, 46:45 Great Glossary of Football Commentary. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Leeds v Wolves with Ali Bruce-Ball & Michael Brown, Sat 1500 Newcastle v Bournemouth on Sports Extra, Sat 1730 Spurs v Brighton & Hove with Eilidh Barbour & Andy Reid, Sat 1730 Iceland v England in WCQ on Sports Extra with Vicki Sparks & Rachel Brown-Finnis, Sun 1400 Everton v Liverpool with Mike Minay & Pat Nevin, Sun 1400 Nottingham Forest v Burnley on Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Aston Villa v Sunderland on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1630 Man City v Arsenal with John Murray & Rob Green. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Backside and elbows, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Channel of joy, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Postage stamp, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Taking it to the corner flag, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Asterisk, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere, Champagne is on ice, Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, Drubbing, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Goalkeepers’ Union, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Lackadaisical, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Needing snookers, Nice headache to have, No-look pass, Nutmeg, On the beach, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Piledriver*, Played us off the park, Points on the board, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Queensbury rules, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Sent into raptures, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Staving off relegation, Steal a march, Sting the palms, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands. We were right behind that.
Apr 10, 2026 · 56 min
Ian Dennis, Conor McNamara & Mike Minay talk Premier League, their travels and the language of football commentary. BBC racing commentator John Hunt joins the pod ahead of the Grand National. And Clash of the Commentators returns, along with more unintended pub names from sport commentary and suggestions for the Great Glossary of Football Commentary. Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 01:15 What is ‘off-tube’ reporting? 09:40 Liverpool fans to protest about ticket prices, 18:30 Other 5 Live commentaries this weekend, 21:25 Conor’s Thursday match up in the air… 22:30 Grand National chat with John Hunt, 39:10 Unintended pub names, 42:00 Clash of the Commentators, 47:15 Great Glossary of Football Commentary. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Brentford v Everton, Sat 1500 Burnley v Brighton & Hove on Sports Extra 2, Sat 1730 Liverpool v Fulham, Sun 1400 Sunderland v Spurs, Sun 1400 Forest v Aston Villa on Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Palace v Newcastle on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1630 Chelsea v Man City. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Backside and elbows, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Channel of joy, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Asterisk, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, Drubbing, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Goalkeepers’ Union, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Lackadaisical, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Nice headache to have, No-look pass, Nutmeg, On the beach, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Piledriver, Played us off the park, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Queensbury rules, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Sent into raptures, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Staving off relegation, Steal a march, Sting the palms, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands.
Apr 10, 2026 · 17 min
In this week’s edition of the Football Interview, Kelly Somers speaks to Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins. They discuss his journey in football going from playing on loan at Weston-super-Mare in the Conference South to sending England to the Euro 2024 final with a 90th minute winner against the Netherlands. He talks about how seeing a sports therapist, and relationships with key figures such as Unai Emery and Michael Owen have helped him along the way. 2’30 - How he saw not getting into Exeter academy first time round as a blessing, 4’00 - Going out on loan and playing for Weston-super-Mare, 5’20 - How well he did when signing for Brentford, 6’20 - Toughest moment for him and how he’s dealt with it, 7’30 - His relationship with Michael Owen, 9’30 - How Unai Emery has guided him, 10’15 - Working with a sports therapist, 11’20 - The match he'd relive and getting in the World Cup squad, 13’00 - What he was like as a kid and what do people get wrong about him, 15’20 - Proudest moment. Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Brentford v Everton in PL, Sat 1500 Burnley v Brighton in PL (Sports Extra), Sat 1730 Liverpool v Fulham in PL, Sun 1400 Sunderland v Tottenham in PL, Sun 1400 Nottingham Forest v Aston Villa in PL (Sports Extra), Sun 1400 Crystal Palace v Newcastle United in PL (Sports Extra 2), Sun 1630 Chelsea v Manchester City in PL.
Apr 9, 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
Steve Crossman is joined by Guillem Balague and Davide Ancelotti on this special episode of the Euro Leagues! Davide discusses his upbringing as the son of Carlo Ancelotti, how his father has influenced him as a coach and as a person, and how he motivates his own players through storytelling. Davide also reflects on his first-ever head coach role at Botafogo, before his assistant at the Brazilian club, Andy Mangan, joins the pod! The pair reflect on meeting in Newport, Wales, whilst completing their UEFA badges, and how Andy was asked to join Real Madrid from Stockport back in 2024. And of course, with Davide being Brazil's assistant manager under Carlo Ancelotti at this summer's World Cup, the team look ahead to the tournament, and discuss which players could surprise people in North America. Timecodes: 02:38 Davide's involvement with Brazil at the World Cup 12:21 Could Neymar go to the World Cup, & which players might surprise people? 16:12 Davide's assistant at Botafogo, Andy Mangan, discusses meeting Davide in Wales 32:23 What Davide learnt from his first head coach role at Botafogo? 36:47 Why the potential move to Rangers collapsed 40:52 Davide on creating his own identity whilst being Carlo's son 53:10 How films, books & nature are used to inspire players 59:25 Could Davide manage in the United Kingdom? Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Brentford v Everton in PL, Sat 1500 Burnley v Brighton in PL (Sports Extra), Sat 1730 Liverpool v Fulham in PL, Sun 1400 Sunderland v Tottenham in PL, Sun 1400 Nottingham Forest v Aston Villa in PL (Sports Extra), Sun 1400 Crystal Palace v Newcastle United in PL (Sports Extra 2), Sun 1630 Chelsea v Manchester City in PL.
Apr 3, 2026 · 43 min
John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball look ahead to the FA Cup quarter-final weekend and reflect on England’s far from sizzling World Cup send off. Plus the non-league Ted Lasso, Steve Bracknall joins the pod live as his Royal Oak FC prepares to take to the field in real life for a big quarter-final of their own. Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 01:10 England struggle in ‘send-off’, 05:00 John gets called out for his ‘shabby shoes’, 11:25 5 Live commentaries this weekend, 13:30 Defining week for Arne Slot? 15:45 What if Spurs get relegated? 23:55 Steve Bracknall joins the pod! 33:30 Unintended pub names, 38:40 Great Glossary of Football Commentary. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1715 Chelsea v Port Vale in FA Cup, Sat 2000 Southampton v Arsenal in FA Cup, Sun 1300 Arsenal v Brighton in Women’s FA Cup, Sun 1630 West Ham v Leeds in FA Cup. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Backside and elbows, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Channel of joy, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Piledriver, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Asterisk, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, Drubbing, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Goalkeepers’ Union, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Lackadaisical, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Nice headache to have, No-look pass, Nutmeg, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Played us off the park, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Queensbury rules, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Staving off relegation, Steal a march, Sting the palms, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands.
Apr 3, 2026 · 57 min
In April 1996, Newcastle and Liverpool met at Anfield with both trying to beat Manchester United to the title. What followed was one of the Premier League's greatest ever matches - a 7-goal-thriller with a late winner. 30 years on, former Liverpool player Jason McAteer, former Newcastle defender Steve Howey, the Anfield Wrap's Ian Ryan and the Athletic's George Caulkin join Alistair Bruce-Ball to reflect on the match and its place in Premier League history. TIMECODES: 04:00 - Initial Thoughts 06:15 - The Game's Context 08:00 - The Squads 15:15 - The First Half 29:30 - The Second Half 39:00 - Stoppage Time 46:30 The Impact on the Title Race
Mar 29, 2026 · 35 min
Ellen White is down at Belvoir Drive, the home of Leicester City Women, for a special edition of the podcast ahead of a crucial end of season run-in for the club. Ellen is reunited with her old gaffer, Rick Passmoor, to chat 'unfinished business' in the WSL and how he hopes the experience of his five January signings can help the club on and off the pitch as they battle to avoid the bottom spot come the end of the season. Plus, Ellen sits down with Alisha Lehmann, one of the most recognisable and widely followed figures in women's football, to discuss the misconceptions around her, why she was so keen on a move back to the WSL and reflect on the impact last summer's Euros is starting to have in Switzerland.
Mar 27, 2026 · 51 min
John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball answer listener questions. From why they still use lip mics to how they deal with criticism… do they still go to game as fans? And which data do they find most useful/useless? Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 01:05 Lip mics and why commentators still use them, 07:20 How they find out which matches they’re doing, 10:00 Working with different summarisers, 19:10 Seeing too much flesh in commentary, 22:00 Avoiding venting personal views in commentary, 26:20 5 Live commentaries this weekend, 27:50 Do the commentators ever watch as fans? 34:40 Which data are the most useful/useless? 44:00 Does criticism affect their commentaries? 47:20 Which TV programmes would they do? 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Fri 1945 England v Uruguay with John Murray, Ian Dennis & Paul Robinson, Sat 1330 Man Utd v Man City in WSL with Mike Minay & Lindsay Johnson, Sun 1200 Chelsea v Aston Villa in WSL with Vicki Sparks & Anita Asante. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Channel of joy, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Piledriver, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Asterisk, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, Drubbing, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Goalkeepers’ Union, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Lackadaisical, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Nice headache to have, No-look pass, Nutmeg, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Played us off the park, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Queensbury rules, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Staving off relegation, Steal a march, Sting the palms, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands. UNSORTED After you Claude, All-Premier League affair, Aplomb, Bag/box of tricks, Brace, Brandished, Bread and butter, Breaking the deadlock, Bundled over the line, Champions elect / champions apparent, Clinical finish, Commentator’s curse, Denied by the woodwork, Draught excluder, Elimination line, Fellow countryman, Foot race, Formerly of this parish, Free hit, Goalmouth scramble, Honeymoon Period, In and around, In the shop window, Keeping ball under their spell, Keystone Cops defending, Languishing, Loitering with intent, Marching orders, Nestle in the bottom corner, Numbered derbies, Opposite number, PK for penalty-kick, Postage stamp, Rasping shot, Red wine not white wine, Relegation six-pointer, Rooted at the bottom, Route One, Sending the goalkeeper the wrong way, Shooting boots, Sleeping giants, Slide rule pass, Small matter of, Spiders web, Stayed hit, Steepling, Stonewall penalty, Straight off the training ground, Taking one for the team, Team that likes to play football, Thruppenny bit head / 50p head, Two good feet, Turning into a basketball match, Turning into a cricket score, Usher/Shepherd the ball out of play, Walking a disciplinary tightrope, Wand of a left foot, Wrap foot around it, Your De Bruynes, your Gundogans etc.
Mar 20, 2026 · 59 min
John Murray & Ian Dennis are joined by producer Gary Flintoff. Also hear from Thomas Tuchel after he names his England squad. Gary gives a behind-the-scenes insight into what a football producer does and dishes the dirt on his most interesting post-match interviews. Plus more unintended pub names and terms for our Great Glossary of Football Commentary. Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 03:00 What does a football producer do? 10:45 Gary’s face is his accreditation! 14:05 What’s it like interviewing Premier League managers? 19:55 Who’s the most difficult to interview? 27:30 5 Live commentaries this weekend, 29:05 History already in the League Cup Final, 32:00 Thomas Tuchel names his England squad, 34:15 Thomas Tuchel INTERVIEW, 44:45 Unintended pub names, 51:15 Great Glossary of Football Commentary. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1200 Man City v Spurs in WSL on Sports Extra, Sat 1500 Fulham v Burnley, Sat 1730 Everton v Chelsea, Sun 1415 Spurs v Nottingham Forest, Sun 1415 Aston Villa v West Ham on Sports Extra, Sun 1630 League Cup Final - Arsenal v Man City. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Channel of joy, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Piledriver, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Asterisk, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, Drubbing, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Goalkeepers’ Union, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Lackadaisical, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Nice headache to have, No-look pass, Nutmeg, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Played us off the park, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Queensbury rules, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Staving off relegation, Steal a march, Sting the palms, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands. UNSORTED After you Claude, All-Premier League affair, Aplomb, Bag/box of tricks, Brace, Brandished, Bread and butter, Breaking the deadlock, Bundled over the line, Champions elect / champions apparent, Clinical finish, Commentator’s curse, Denied by the woodwork, Draught excluder, Elimination line, Fellow countryman, Foot race, Formerly of this parish, Free hit, Goalmouth scramble, Honeymoon Period, In and around, In the shop window, Keeping ball under their spell, Keystone Cops defending, Languishing, Loitering with intent, Marching orders, Nestle in the bottom corner, Numbered derbies, Opposite number, PK for penalty-kick, Postage stamp, Rasping shot, Red wine not white wine, Relegation six-pointer, Rooted at the bottom, Route One, Sending the goalkeeper the wrong way, Shooting boots, Sleeping giants, Slide rule pass, Small matter of, Spiders web, Stayed hit, Steepling, Stonewall penalty, Straight off the training ground, Taking one for the team, Team that likes to play football, Thruppenny bit head / 50p head, Two good feet, Turning into a basketball match, Turning into a cricket score, Usher/Shepherd the ball out of play, Walking a disciplinary tightrope, Wand of a left foot, Wrap foot around it, Your De Bruynes, your Gundogans etc.
Mar 20, 2026 · 20 min
In this week’s edition of the Football Interview, Kelly Somers speaks to Brighton midfielder James Milner. They discuss his journey from joining the Leeds academy to breaking the appearance record in the Premier League at the age of 40. He talks about the best managers he's played under as well as the highs and lows of his Premier League career which started way back in 2002. 0’30 - What would a young Milner say about the career he’s had? 1’00 - Breaking the appearance record. 2’13 - His first football memory and being scouted for Leeds 5’00 - First Premier League appearance and goal in 2002 6’14 - Best manager he’s played under and relationship with Klopp 8’56 - What game would he relive? 9’40 - Toughest moment of his career 11’18 - Did he think last year’s injury would end his career? 12’00 - How much has football changed? 14’29 - What do people get wrong about him? 16’50 - Retirement and going into management 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1200 Man City v Spurs in WSL on Sports Extra, Sat 1500 Fulham v Burnley, Sat 1730 Everton v Chelsea, Sun 1415 Spurs v Nottingham Forest, Sun 1415 Aston Villa v West Ham on Sports Extra, Sun 1630 League Cup Final - Arsenal v Man City.
Mar 13, 2026 · 48 min
John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball talk about their commentary travels. Did John get his usual table in Madrid? Are English teams underperforming in the Champions League? The guys have their say on the Premier League title race and Igor Tudor still being at Tottenham Hotspur. Plus more unintended pub names, a royally good Clash of the Commentators and more of your Glossary terms and phrases. Messages, questions and voicenotes on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 03:30 John’s special table in Madrid, 05:50 Have English teams underperformed in Champions League? 09:40 John’s Spanish sherry tip-off, 12:30 Will we get more singing on the pod? 15:45 5 Live commentaries this weekend, 20:45 Surprised Tudor is still at Spurs? 24:30 Ali makes fool of himself at Wrexham, 31:10 Unintended pub names, 35:35 Clash of the Commentators, 40:25 Great Glossary of Football Commentary. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Burnley v Bournemouth on Sports Extra with Ali Bruce-Ball & Leon Osman, Sat 1500 Sunderland v Brighton on Sports Extra 2, Sat 1730 Arsenal v Everton with Conor McNamara and Pat Nevin, Sat 1730 Chelsea v Newcastle on Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Man Utd v Aston Villa with John Murray & Dion Dublin, Sun 1400 Forest v Fulham on Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Palace v Leeds on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1415 Women’s League Cup Final Man Utd v Chelsea on Sports Extra 3, Sun 1630 Liverpool v Spurs with Vicki Sparks & Clinton Morrison. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Channel of joy, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Asterisk, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Lackadaisical, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Nice headache to have, No-look pass, Nutmeg, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Played us off the park, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Queensbury rules, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Staving off relegation, Steal a march, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands.
Mar 13, 2026 · 13 min
In this week’s edition of the Football Interview, Kelly Somers speaks to Brentford and Republic of Ireland captain Nathan Collins. They discuss his journey into football coming from a footballing family and moving to England at the age of 15 to join Stoke City's academy. He talks about being the first in his family to play for Republic of Ireland and their chances of making the World Cup this summer. He also speaks about life at Brentford under Keith Andrews. 0’30 - First memories of playing football and always being around football 1’30 - Could he have ended up in Gaelic football and first football team 2’40 - His first big break and coming over to England at 15 3’53 - What game would he relive? 5’00 - Has he allowed himself to think about making the play off with Ireland? 5’30 - Keith Andrews coming in and his relationship with him 6’45 - What was he like as a youngster and family 8’36 - How he spends his spare time 9’40 - What do people get wrong about him? 10’49 - What would he be if he wasn’t a footballer? 11’00 - Post football 12’00 - Proudest moment and what else he wants to achieve
Mar 6, 2026 · 59 min
John Hunt joins John Murray & Ian Dennis to talk about life as a racing commentator. How does he do it? What are the best commentary positions and quirks of the job? And can a flutter affect your game? Plus more unintended pub names and the Great Glossary of Football Commentary, and Mark Chapman’s been listening to the pod! Messages, questions and voicenotes on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 00:55 John Hunt fresh from the Winter Olympics, 09:05 FA Cup & Champions League commentaries, 14:45 Mark Chapman in mischievous mood… 20:15 Listening experiences on the radio… 25:15 John Hunt on how to do horse racing commentary, 36:25 Racing commentary positions & using binoculars, 42:00 Can a flutter affect your commentary? 48:00 Unintended pub names, 51:40 Great Glossary of Football Commentary. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Fri 2000 Wolves v Liverpool with Conor McNamara & Clinton Morrison, Sat 1230 England women v Iceland on Sports Extra with Vicki Sparks & Rachel Brown-Finnis, Sat 1700 Scotland v Luxembourg via BBC Radio Scotland on Sports Extra 3, Sat 1745 Wrexham v Chelsea with JOHN MURRAY & Chris Sutton on Sports Extra, Sat 2000 Newcastle v Man City with IAN DENNIS & Rachel Corsie, Sun 1200 Fulham v Southampton via BBC Radio London on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1300 Rangers v Celtic via BBC Radio Scotland on Sports Extra 3, Sun 1330 Port Vale v Sunderland with John Acres & Andy Reid, Sun 1630 Leeds v Norwich with Eilidh Barbour & Paul Robinson, Mon 1930 West Ham v Brentford with Vicki Sparks & Glenn Murray. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, No-look pass, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Nice headache to have, Nutmeg, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Played us off the park, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Queensbury rules, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Staving off relegation, Steal a march, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands.
Mar 6, 2026 · 9 min
Liverpool full back Andy Robertson speaks to BBC Sport's Nahyan Chowdhury ahead of his sides FA Cup fifth round tie against Wolves. The Scotland captain talks about what the FA Cup means to him, his experiences winning it with Liverpool in the 2021-22 season, what it would mean to win it this season, but how they're just taking it one game at a time. He also talks about his former teammate James Milner breaking the Premier League record for appearances. 0'40 - What the FA Cup means to him and his experiences of the competition. 1’46 - His emotions when winning the FA Cup. 3’00 - Memories of the competition growing up in Scotland. 4’10 - How confident they going into game against Wolves and what would it mean winning the FA Cup this season. 6’58 - Thoughts on James Milner appearance record
Mar 5, 2026 · 43 min
In this special episode of the Euro Leagues, Steve Crossman, Guillem Balague, Archie Rhind-Tutt and Julien Laurens are joined by Sergei Palkin, CEO of Ukrainian giants Shakhtar Donetsk. Sergei talks about the challenges facing the club since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 - finding somewhere to play their games, convincing foreign players to sign for them and dreaming of returning to the Donbas Arena. With less than 100 days to go until the World Cup, the panel also discuss how Germany, Spain and France are shaping up. TIMECODES 00:52 - Less than 100 days until the World Cup 04:33 - Germany and Nagelsmann 11:17 - Spain's injury worries 15:05 - France and Deschamps spoilt for choice 26:38 - Shakhtar Donetsk CEO Sergei Palkin 27:23 - Running a football club in wartime 29:18 - The role of sport in Ukrainian's lives 31:04 - Using stadiums as shelters 33:12 - Convincing foreign players to sign 37:17 - Trying to maintain the academy 40:20 - Dreams of returning to the Donbas Arena
Feb 27, 2026 · 54 min
John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball talk football, travel & language. There’s breaking news on how to pronounce Taty Castellanos, hear from the voice of the 'corpsing classifieds' and TCV goes musical. Plus ‘Unintended Pub Names’ maybe reaches its peak; Clash of the Commentators goes to Scandinavia and how you can use the pod to impress your mates. Messages and voicenotes on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 00:30 Chocolate is good for you? 02:00 John recovered from Newcastle- Qarabağ, 03:40 5 Live commentaries this weekend, 08:50 Castellanos pronunciation news, 11:50 The voice of the corpsing classifieds! 17:10 Lawn mowers & palm trees, 21:40 TCV goes musical, 25:20 Unintended pub names, 35:30 Clash of the Commentators, 44:45 Great Glossary of Football Commentary, 49:40 A final message from Luke in Norway. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Liverpool v West Ham with Ian Dennis & Stephen Warnock, Sat 1500 Newcastle v Everton on Sports Extra with Eilidh Barbour & James McFadden, Sat 1730 Leeds v Man City with John Murray & Paul Robinson, Sun 1200 Rangers v Celtic with Alasdair Lamond & Pat Nevin, Sun 1400 Man Utd v Crystal Palace with John Murray & Dion Dublin, Sun 1400 Fulham v Tottenham on Sports Extra with John Acres & Mark Schwarzer, Sun 1400 Brighton v Forest on Sports Extra 2 with Chris Wise & Luke Chambers, Sun 1630 Arsenal v Chelsea with Ali Bruce-Ball & Matt Upson. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Nice headache to have, Nutmeg, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Played us off the park, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Steal a march, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands. UNSORTED After you Claude, All-Premier League affair, Aplomb, Bag/box of tricks, Brace, Brandished, Bread and butter, Breaking the deadlock, Bundled over the line, Champions elect / champions apparent, Clinical finish, Commentator’s curse, Denied by the woodwork, Draught excluder, Elimination line, Fellow countryman, Foot race, Formerly of this parish, Free hit, Goalkeepers’ Union, Goalmouth scramble, Honeymoon Period, In and around, In the shop window, Keeping ball under their spell, Keystone Cops defending, Languishing, Loitering with intent, Marching orders, Nestle in the bottom corner, Numbered derbies, Opposite number, PK for penalty-kick, Postage stamp, Rasping shot, Red wine not white wine, Relegation six-pointer, Rooted at the bottom, Route One, Sending the goalkeeper the wrong way, Shooting boots, Sleeping giants, Slide rule pass, Small matter of, Spiders web, Stayed hit, Steepling, Stinging the palms, Stonewall penalty, Straight off the training ground, Taking one for the team, Team that likes to play football, Throw their cap on it, Thruppenny bit head / 50p head, Two good feet, Turning into a basketball match, Turning into a cricket score, Usher/Shepherd the ball out of play, Walking a disciplinary tightrope, Wand of a left foot, Wrap foot around it, Your De Bruynes, your Gundogans etc.
Feb 27, 2026 · 14 min
In this week’s edition of the Football Interview, Kelly Somers speaks to England captain Leah Williamson. They discuss her early memories of getting into football, the impact her family have had on her, and how she nearly dropped out of the Arsenal academy at the age of 15. She relives captaining England to back-to-back European titles and reveals to Kelly the one thing that's missing that would complete her career. 0’40 - First memories of football and not being very good. 2’20 - How she nearly dropped out of the academy at Arsenal at 15. 3’50 - Has there been a turning point? 4’55 - What match from her career would she relive? 6’00 - Did she realise what she’d done [winning Euro 2022]? 7’42 - How has it changed her life? 8’09 - The fuel to do win it again in 2025. 8’40 - What was she like growing up and her family dynamic. 10’26 - How she escapes from football and love of fashion. 12’53 - What else does she want to achieve? 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Liverpool v West Ham, Sat 1500 Newcastle v Everton on Sports Extra, Sat 1730 Leeds v Man City, Sun 1200 Rangers v Celtic, Sun 1400 Man Utd v Crystal Palace, Sun 1400 Fulham v Tottenham on Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Brighton & Hove v Nottingham Forest on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1630 Arsenal v Chelsea.
Feb 20, 2026 · 57 min
Conor McNamara joins John Murray & Ian Dennis to talk football, travel & language. John reflects on his trip to Baku in Azerbaijan. There’s a railway reunion of sorts and ‘sleepgate’ continues. The guys look ahead to the Premier League weekend, including Tottenham-Arsenal. Plus unintended pub and film names, Clash of the Commentators and the Great Glossary of Football Commentary. Messages and voicenotes welcome on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk 01:10 John back from Baku! 07:10 John overcomes a bad cold! 10:45 A railway reunion… 13:00 Update from the sleeping listeners… 14:50 5 Live commentaries this weekend, 16:55 Tottenham-Arsenal preview, 23:00 Bodø in strong position to progress, 24:50 Music in commentary… 26:20 Unintended pub names, 33:55 Clash of the Commentators, 43:00 Great Glossary of Football Commentary. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Aston Villa v Leeds with Ian & Leon Osman (starts on Sports Extra), Sat 1500 Chelsea v Burnley on Sports Extra 2 with Mike Minay & Rachel Corsie, Sat 1730 West Ham v Bournemouth with Conor McNamara & Rob Green, Sun 1400 Nottingham Forest v Liverpool with Vicki Sparks & Pat Nevin, Sun 1400 Sunderland v Fulham on Sports Extra 2 with Lee Blakeman & Danny Collins, Sun 1400 Crystal Palace v Wolves on Sports Extra 3 with Chris Coles & Matt Jarvis, Sun 1630 Tottenham v Arsenal with John Murray & Clinton Morrison. Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Bosman, Bullet header, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Nice headache to have, Nutmeg, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Played us off the park, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Steal a march, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands. UNSORTED After you Claude, All-Premier League affair, Aplomb, Bag/box of tricks, Brace, Brandished, Bread and butter, Breaking the deadlock, Bundled over the line, Champions elect / champions apparent, Clinical finish, Commentator’s curse, Denied by the woodwork, Draught excluder, Elimination line, Fellow countryman, Foot race, Formerly of this parish, Free hit, Goalkeepers’ Union, Goalmouth scramble, Honeymoon Period, In and around, In the shop window, Keeping ball under their spell, Keystone Cops defending, Languishing, Loitering with intent, Marching orders, Nestle in the bottom corner, Numbered derbies, Opposite number, PK for penalty-kick, Postage stamp, Rasping shot, Red wine not white wine, Relegation six-pointer, Rooted at the bottom, Route One, Sending the goalkeeper the wrong way, Shooting boots, Sleeping giants, Slide rule pass, Small matter of, Spiders web, Stayed hit, Steepling, Stinging the palms, Stonewall penalty, Straight off the training ground, Taking one for the team, Team that likes to play football, Throw their cap on it, Thruppenny bit head / 50p head, Two good feet, Turning into a basketball match, Turning into a cricket score, Usher/Shepherd the ball out of play, Walking a disciplinary tightrope, Wand of a left foot, Wrap foot around it, Your De Bruynes, your Gundogans etc.
Feb 20, 2026 · 27 min
In this week’s edition of the Football Interview, Mark Chapman speaks to Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick. He talks about how it felt right when he was offered the job, how he chose his backroom staff, and how they challenge him to be his best. He speaks about the importance of the academy and what young players mean to him at the club which leads into a discussion about Kobbie Mainoo's resurgence and how he's proved he can play in any position in midfield. Timecodes 0’30 - Has doing punditry helped him as a manager? 1’53 - How it felt right when he got the Man Utd job. 4’00 - How he chose his backroom staff and were Man Utd underachieving as group? 5’40 - Did it help that the first two games were Man City and Arsenal? 7’52 - Does he encourage people to get carried away? 8’52 - How he works with his backroom staff and how they challenge him. 11’00 - What the academy and young players mean to him at the club. 13’14 - Man Utd academy is what the club is built upon. 15’43 - Kobbie Mainoo's resurgence and how he can play any position in midfield. 18’40 - How he felt leaving Middlesbrough. 20’10 - Can you manage/coach the same way whatever club you’re at? 23’10 - Could he replicate the hair dryer treatment and how Sir Alex was the best. 23’50 - Does he have to accept that pundits now are players from his era and how players cope with them. 25’00 - How the job is the ultimate role for him. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Aston Villa v Leeds on Sports Extra, Sat 1500 Chelsea v Burnley on Sports Extra, Sat 1730 West Ham v Bournemouth, Sun 1400 Nottingham Forest v Liverpool, Sun 1400 Sunderland v Fulham on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1400 Crystal Palace v Wolves on Sports Extra 3, Sun 1630 Tottenham v Arsenal.
Feb 14, 2026 · 15 min
In this week’s edition of the Football Interview, Kelly Somers speaks to Portugal Manager Roberto Martinez. They discuss his journey into football, from becoming a player at Real Zaragoza and moving over to play in the UK not knowing a word of English, to managing Wigan Athletic to their historic FA Cup win against Manchester City in 2013. They also get into what it's like managing at an international level with the golden generation of Belgium and how he takes Portugal into the World Cup this summer with a legend in Cristiano Ronaldo. 5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1215 Burton v West Ham, Sat 1745 Villa v Newcastle, Sat 2000 Liverpool v Brighton, Sun 1200 Birmingham v Leeds, Sun 1330 Grimsby v Wolves, Sun 1630 Rangers v Hearts, Mon 1930 Macclesfield v Brentford.
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