Armchair Analysts: Recent Episodes
Cameron Macdonald and Rupert Meadows
In this special, the Analysts take a look at their England XIs and a couple of outlandish predictions ahead of Euro 2024 kicking off, as well as a few bits and pieces from around global football.
In another season of ups and downs, gravity has eventually re-established itself and Man City won the league. Again. We run through our teams of the season and our awards.
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at the penultimate round of games in the 23/24 Premier League season. With the title and the final relegation spot theoretically hanging in the balance, is the final day more of a formality?
In this episode, the Analysts look at the 4-0 thrashing of Manchester United at the hands of Glasner's Crystal Palace, as well as Dortmund's semi-final triumph, Chelsea's vein of form, and Nottingham Forest's failed appeal.
As we move into the end of the season, Liverpool drop off to make the title charge a two horse race. Everton are in the midst of a dangerous ownership change and PGMOL make admissions to Nottingham Forest
In this episode, the Analysts look at the drama unfolding following Forest's dramatic reaction to their 2-0 loss at the hands of Everton, as well as the seismic decision to scrap FA Cup replays. Alongside is of course some of the news and the games from the week.
As Man City march on, Arsenal and Liverpool both lose winnable games. Is this the end? The beginning of the end? The end of the beginning?
Elsewhere, are Chelsea actually turning around their season...?
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at the state of play heading into the Premier League Run In (TM) - as well as check-ins on the Championship and the Bundesliga
All happening this international break, from the latest in Premier League points deductions to fights breaking out in another European league, to England looking generally quite bad at football.
In this episode, the Analysts unpack the latest points deduction dealt to a team in the Premier League, how it came about, why it's less than Everton's, and what it means going forwards.
From top to bottom, to some of the middle, it's all pretty exciting in the Premier League
In this episode the Analysts continue their coverage of the Premier League, but take a step outside into the division below, as well as some of the continental leagues.
Everton have seen their financial fair play rules breach punishment reduced from 10 points to 6, but for Man City and Nottingham Forest it's still all up in the air.
This weekend, Liverpool pocketed their first trophy of the season and it's all heating up at the top of the table.
The Analysts ask whether Mbappe's move is the right one for him - and the right one for the game, amongst other football from the week.
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at the 45 goal Premier League gameweek, and the league narratives that have been brought back into focus by the results.
It's all happening, from managerial changes like Klopp and Xavi announced, to AFCON knockouts and the favourites crashing out, to Manchester United's latest off-the-pitch signing that's got people talking.
In this episode, the Analysts check in on the Africa Cup of Nations, hear about Arsenal's 5-0 thrashing of Palace to restore goals to the Emirates Stadium, and Ivan Toney's much awaited return.
This week is transfer week! Cam and Rupert put their Sporting Director's Hats on and are picking one signing each Premier League side should make this January window. Some are reasonable, others are not.
With the 3rd Round of the FA Cup (mostly) done, the Analysts look into the big results and the bigger upsets, as well as a host of football happenings around the globe.
Half way through the season and all to play for at the top of the Premier League - and the bottom. The Transfer Window is open and Nottingham Forest are the latest to get hit with the financial fair play rulebook. And should Nottingham Forest sell Ivan Toney?
Will things be any different for the Super League this time around? Has Steve Cooper been hard done by in his dismissal by Nottingham Forest, and will Nuno Espirito Santo help the club reach the owner's lofty ambitions? What happens when you pocket the stake of your dad's accumulator?
It's all happening, all the time. New Premier league votes have restricted amortization to just 5 years, while across the pond Todd Boehly tests out new forms of financial subterfuge. On the pitch, Everton and Aston Villa both form separate pacts with the footballing gods, while Liverpool reclaim top spot.
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at the new TV deal signed for the Premier League from 25/26, and what it could mean for fans, clubs, and the global game.
Also up for discussion is the situation at Reading, this season's first managerial sacking, and yet more referee controversy.
Premier league roundup week, with a great set of games from this weekend. City took on Liverpool, Arsenal beat Brentford, Newcastle put Chelsea to the sword. It goes from bad to worse at Everton but Luton are out of the relegation zone!
Why have Everton been docked 10 points, and what could it mean for other teams also looking down the barrel at charges brought by the Premier League? Have 'easier' internationals cheapened scoring records? Who can loan, and who can vote?
This week we talk about the craziness of the City vs Chelsea game, touch on Liverpool's improvements, Spurs decline and Wolves' little talked about building momentum. Newcastle have also hit a downward trend, and how much do you actually know about Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink's career?
In this episode, the Analysts look at the chaos that was Spurs 1-4 Chelsea, which was the crowning jewel of a week of bizarre results. Also up for discussion are some of those results, including Forest 2-0 Villa, Luton 1-1 Liverpool, and Sheffield United 2-1 Wolves.
This week we go over the sport's highest individual honour, with Messi winning the 2023 edition this week. Also on the cards are Jude Bellingham and Eddie Nketiah's impressive performances, and some rather less impressive ones from Chelsea and everyone associated with Manchester United.
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at the two points dropped (or one point gained?) by Chelsea and Arsenal in their 2-2 draw, alongside the three players involved in a recent betting scandal and a host of other games across the Premier League.
Tottenham vs Luton, Arsenal vs Man City, Chelsea resurgence, Sheffield United on the rocks, and the UK and Ireland have been confirmed as hosts for the 2028 edition of the Euros.
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at the news around the 2030 World Cup hosts being announced, and what it means looking ahead to 2034, as well as the controversy surrounding Tottenham's 2-1 win over Liverpool.
The Prem is in full swing! City march on and everyone else is also playing football with varying degrees of success.
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at 777 Partners, Everton's prospective new owners, as well as the return of the Champions League and the run up to Sunday's North London Derby
This international break, we cover the highs and lows of football: from who will win this year's best player award, to who has been allegedly caught doping, to who was fired for basically groping. Oh, and we also had time for a bit of a complain about Gareth Southgate.
In this episode, the Analysts look at Arsenal's 3-1 win over Manchester United, riddled with gamechanging decisions; the imminent mega bid for Mohammed Salah from Al Ittihad; and where it's all going wrong for Chelsea despite all the investment.
In this episode the Analysts reflect on the first three games from the 23/24 season, particularly on Arsenal's tactical reshuffle, West Ham's surprising performances and Everton's impending doom...
This week we have a slightly shorter episode where we focus in on what we learned from the opening day's fixtures for Luton Town, Sheffield United and Burnley - and what we can expect from them going forwards for the season.
This ep we go through the table from top to bottom, predicting who we think will win, get relegated and finish everywhere in between - and give our hot takes for the season.
In this episode, the Analysts look at the recent time keeping changes announced ahead of the 23/24 seasons of the PL and the EFL, as well as some of the highlights from the Women's World Cup group stages, and a few of the ongoing transfers around the world.
Would you spend a billion for Kylian? Will Messi usher in a new era of soccer madness in America? Which one of us is the fan? Much to talk and think about this week, from the Women's World Cup to Jordan Henderson showing his true colours.
In this episode, the Analysts discuss the honest and open interview of Dele Alli interview, the impending decision date of Mbappe vs. PSG, and a number of completed transfers, a completed takeover, and look into what's happening with the stalled sale of Manchester United to Sheikh Jassim.
People moving clubs, new and different rules and an industry first - a female manager in the EFL!
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at some of the big transfers that have already taken place this window, as well as the question of whether the way transfers work has changed or not in the modern era.
This week we take on the humble pie of looking over our predictions from the beginning of this year's Premier League Season. From Brentford getting relegated to Spurs finishing third, it's fair to say we made some bad calls...
This week, the Analysts take a look at Lionel Messi's move to the MLS. Also up for discussion is the arrival of Ange Postecoglou at Spurs, the relegation playoff in Serie A, and whether the Saudi League is just replicating what the Chinese Super League did in years gone by - or if they've got something else in the works...
In this episode we wind down the Premier League season, talk about who makes it into our teams of the season and go over a few of the final day games. And should there be a relegation playoff?
In this episode, the Analysts look at the situation unfolding with the racial abuse of Vinicius Jr. in La Liga, as well as the European Finals, qualification for Newcastle to their respective tournaments, and Dortmund's chance to break Bayern's 10 year streak.
business end of the season. City are tying up loose ends, arsenal are still tripping over their laces. Nottingham Forest have emerged as the most likely candidate for Big Sam's Leeds to bump into the relegation zone, and elsewhere across Europe leagues have already begun to wrap up.
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at Manchester City's 4-1 destruction of title hopefuls Arsenal, as well as the action developing at the bottom of the table, and the race for European competition.
Do Arsenal really want to win this title? Can Arsenal really win this title? Who's to say.The battle for relegation is heating up more than ever and elsewhere, FA Cup semis are over and it's going to be a Manchester Derby in the final.
In this episode the Analysts ask whether Arsenal have blown their chance to win the Premier League, if Liverpool are back and in the running for top 4, and how good the food is at Dutch football matches.
A bizarre story has emerged in Greece when officials flown in from Poland to officiate a match reportedly turned up drunk and according to fans, wanted to try and fix the match. City slap down Bayern in ominous tones and Arsenal drop the 2 points separating them. Roy Hodgson is back and has Palace scoring goals for fun and Frank Lampard is also back at Chelsea. Elsewhere, Brighton are robbed agan by VAR.
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at the sackings of Graham Potter and Brendan Rodgers, the game of the season that won't be called the game of the season, and life after Conte for Spurs looking all too similar...
This week Everton have been charged with breaching FFP and Barcelona's Gavi got a contract gut punch. Chelsea are still fine though apparently. Conte's out, Nagelsman's out, Tuchel is in and Ben Foster is also back in... but to Wrexham?
Oh, and well done Harry Kane for becoming England's top goalscorer. Something something good thing we play so many small games these days.
In this episode, the Analysts look at Conte's explosive tirade against his employers, whether it was fair to send Uncle Patrick packing, and what's going to happen in the Champions League Final...
Another scandal is rocking Barcelona after payments of millions have been uncovered to a former Spanish refereeing chief spanning 17 years. In other news, the World Cup and international football is getting definitely bigger and probably not better, and Spurs are definitely not getting bigger or better.
In this episode the Analysts take a look at the 7-0 annihilation of Manchester United at the hands of bitter rivals Liverpool. Also up for discussion is Arsenal's from behind victory against Bournemouth, the bizarre state of the league from 12th to 20th, and whether Conte is at a dead end...
Another twist and another turn later and it looks like Arsenal might be able to best a leaky Man City side and win the title... or does it? Elsewhere, Chelsea lose to bottom place Southampton and Liverpool travelled to St James' Park and left with three points. All that and more.
In this episode the Analysts look at Manchester City's game to finally reclaim top spot in the Premier League. Also up for discussion are Leicester's thrashing of Spurs, the inevitable sacking of Nathan Jones, and the potential sale of Manchester United.
Man City have been alleged to have breached FFP 115 times over 14 years. It might take that long again to actually bring charges, though.
Elsewhere, Sean Dyche's Everton start with a bang, and Chelsea's shiny new toys barely manage a whimper. Jesse Marsch has been sacked and Wrexham's FA Cup fairytale has come to a Sharp ending.
In this episode the Analysts look into who got it right, and who got it wrong in the January Transfer Window. Also up for discussion is Wrexham's night under the lights as they faced off against Sheffield United in the FA Cup.
In a week of footballing twists and turns, like Arsenal vs Manchester United and the ever spinning transfer wheel, it's nice to know some things are predictable. Juventus have been caught up in another, potentially wide reaching scandal. Frank Lampard has finally been fired from the Everton hotseat. And Harry Kane looks set to confirm that he is patently allergic to winning anything, by signing yet another new contract with Spurs.
Editor's Note: This week our Useless Trivia segment is especially useless.
In this episode, the Analysts discuss the weekend of derbies and how they've impacted the league. Later, Rupert breaks down Chelsea's financial footwork and the long-term implications of amortisation.
This week we take a look at the biggest transfers and rumours - Ronaldo to Al-Nassr and Mykhailo Mudryk to the Prem - as well as breaking down the most interesting bouts of form in the Premier League. Everton, United and Liverpool are the headliners.
In this episode the Analysts take a look at the first round of games following the World Cup break - which teams have bounced back and which have stalled? Is it better to have well-rested players or those who've kept it running in high gear? All this and more, as well as some transfer news...
We go over our thoughts on the final, breaking down tactics and how it all unfolded, as well as giving our thoughts on our choice of Team of the Tournament. Sadly, Harry Maguire didn't make it.
England are out, and the dream has died for now at least...but there's still plenty to be excited about with Africa's first ever semi-finalists facing off against the current World Champions, while Lionel Messi makes his final play for that elusive trophy - he couldn't, could he?
In this ep we go through our thoughts on the round of 16 games, and look ahead to the massive England game vs France on Saturday.
In this episode the Analysts take a look at England's potential fortunes now they've topped the group. Also up for discussion are France's bizarre lineup choices, Wales' exit and the Socceroos triumphant progression.
This week we managed to get an actual real life Welsh person on the show to talk to us about Football. Turns out it's pretty cool they're in the World Cup.
We also briefly touched upon the utter shambles that is England and other countries not wearing One Love armbands, the England game itself, and the other group stage games this week so far (Tuesday record).
Featured guest: Cullan Wing. Thanks, Cullan.
Timestamps:
1.05 Armbands
3.40 England vs Iran
18.46 Argentina vs Saudi Arabia
30.05 Useless Trivia
33.07 Wales Wales Wales
53.08 France vs Australia
We run through our (quite different) starting XIs, do a little tactical preview of the group, and talk about the narratives already surfacing in Qatar (at timestamp 28.07). Who would you start? send in your XIs to hosts@armchairanalysts.co.uk and we'll talk about them next ep.
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at some of the excerpts from the upcoming interview Cristiano Ronaldo gave on his second spell at United. What do they mean for him? The club? The future of both? Also up for discussion are Arsenal, Chelsea and a number of other sides and their standings before we head intot he World Cup...
In this episode the Analysts take stock, one week out from the World Cup and thus, a break from the Premier League. What's different this season than what we expected? What's changed so far and what changes can we expect moving forwards? All this and more in the penultimate pre-Qatar chat.
Everyone dropped points this weekend except Man City. Aston Villa had a new manager bounce which was fun for them, Arsenal slipped up (but not without some diving/going down under pressure controversy) and Fulham keep doing Fulham things. But not worrying old Fulham things, exciting new Fulham things like moving up to 7th place and Mitrovic scoring 9 in 11. All that and more in this week's episode of Armchair Analysts.
Ep Recorded on Tuesday. An at the time unbeaten Bournemouth are cementing their place in the top 10, and Arsenal are edging out in front of a City side that came undone against recent rivals Liverpool. Oh, and some people got together and decided Karim Benzema was the best player in the world.
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at some of the off the pitch news coming out of football over the last week, as well as the clash between Arsenal and Liverpool to see if it truly was a passing of the torch moment, or just a lone result.
What's a derby? Well, we had several examples on the weekend - Man U vs Man City, Arsenal vs Tottenham, Leicester vs Nottingham Forest to name a few. We talk about them all.
No Football, just stories and speculation this week. How will Graham Potter fare at Chelsea? Who will make the England Squad for the World Cup? We might know, we might not.
In this episode, the Analysts return from a break and take a look into how the first 6 games of the Premier League have unfolded. Has Erik Ten Hag figured it all out at Manchester United, and will Brighton finish top four? Can Arsenal sustain their form over a whole season, and will Brendan Rodgers be in a job by October?
This week's episode features a few special segments again, as we talk about how vital a good captain is to a team's success, as well as a brief deep dive into what to expect from this year's Bundesliga and Ligue 1.
This week we take a closer look at Barcelona's confusing finances (recorded last week), and also do a little deep dive into what to expect from the Serie A (Cam) and La Liga (Rupert) this season.
In this episode the Analysts take a look at the first week of the 22/23 season. Who impressed and who underwhelmed? What're Rupert's quickfire first impressions?
Following on from last week, we take a look at who we think will finish in the bottom half of the table - and where. Will the newly promoted sides stay up? Who already looks like they're in trouble, and who might well exceed expectations? One thing's for sure - we've definitely got some rogue calls in here.
In this episode, the Analysts begin their preview of the 22/23 Premier League season, with a prediction of which teams will finish in the top ten. Are the current top two more out of reach than any other in Premier League history? Who's had the best window so far to prepare themselves for the oncoming season? Will Newcastle shake things up with their new ownership?
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at FIFA's decision to allow the unilateral suspension of contracts for players and coaches currently in Ukraine, what it means for the individuals, the clubs and the fans. Also up for discussion is the EFL's compulsory streaming edict, which will see all games in Leagues One and Two streamed during the World Cup and on Bank Holidays: how will this affect revenue streams for the smaller clubs, and is it fair?
With preseasons starting and transfers bubbling under the surface, the new football calendar is shaking off the dust and starting to whir into motion. Bringing you some of the more interesting signings thus far, and some first glimpses at players lining up for their new teams.
Timestamps:
00:47 Man U beat Liverpool 4-0
10:00 Arsenal beat Nuremburg
13:39 Is the Raphinha Signing Understandable for Barcelona?
26:02 Useless Trivia
29:30 Richarlison - Spurs's newest and most expensive ever backup player
37:36 Chelsea sign Sterling... and maybe Ronaldo??
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at the increasingly exciting moves that have taken place over the course of the window so far, as well as the ones rumoured to come. Will Jesus be more Sanchez or Welbeck? Will Bissouma turn out to be the signing of the summer? Who will buy Raphinha?
Big moves have already been made in the new transfer window, with Liverpool and Man City already bolstering their ranks with new exciting attackers for the new season. Young players broke through last year as well, and we go over our picks for the best young newcomer, or 'Rookie', of last season. Elsewhere, PSG sack Pochettino and Burnley appoint a familiar face, Vincent Kompany. Timestamps:
00:34 Rookie of the year
12:54 Haaland and Nunez
35:05 Useless Trivia
40:22 Pochettino Out
58:07 Kompany In
In this episode, the Analysts each construct their Teams of the Season for the 21/22 PL campaign…but with a twist! Only one player may be selected from each club to make things interesting. Which stars miss out, and which overlooked gems get their praise?
Not much else to do this week but catch up with ALL the football that's been going on over the last few weeks. The script writers really outdid themselves this year, with compelling narratives going up to the very last day of the season both in Europe and all over the Premier League.
From Liverpool vs Real Madrid to Burnley vs Newcastle, to a look at the other top European leagues, you can catch it all here.
In this episode, the Analysts discuss all the goings-on in the Premier League as the 21/22 season draws to a close, with GW38 on the horizon. Also up for discussion are the outcome of the FA Cup Final, the news coming from Blackpool forward Jake Daniels and whether we should rework the Young Player of the Season Award.
All to play for at the top and the bottom of the table. Just nine points separate 11th from 18th, but it still feels like late entrants to the relegation battle, Leeds, are running out of time to turn things around. Liverpool get held up against Tottenham to keep the title race interesting, and new owners at Chelsea could spell a new chapter. Timestamps:
00:32 Chelsea's new owners
12:45 Brighton 4-0 Man U
19:32 Liverpool's last two games: help to a draw by Tottenham and a comeback win against Aston Villa
30:50 Useless Trivia
34:20 Man City 5-0 Newcastle
42:15 Arsenal 2-1 Leeds
52:39 Leicester 1-2 Everton
In this episode, the Analysts discuss the baldest man in football, and ponder how it's all gone wrong in Europe for Manchester City once again. Real Madrid continue their run of exceptional comebacks, and Villarreal dazzled despite losing, but will it be Liverpool to win the trophy with the big ears...and perhaps the Quadruple?
From Arsenal to Chelsea and Manchester United at one end, to Burnley and Everton at the other, there's no shortage of twists to the tale for who will finish the season above the other. For some, it could spell future glory on the international stage, and for others: the dreaded drop. Let's talk about it. Timestamps:
00:57 Arsenal, Chelea and Manchester United (+Liverpool)
39:16 Useless Trivia
46:13 Everton (+Liverpool)
52:36 Burnley
In this episode, the Analysts discuss Burnley's firing of Sean Dyche, and whether it'll pay off for them come the end of the season. Also up for discussion are the reports of Haaland agreeing personal terms with Manchester City, the continuing Hot Potato that seems to be fourth place, and Derby County's relegation to League One.
As Man City and Liverpool continue keep finding themselves in crunch fixtures against each other, will their rivalry grow more fiery - or are modern rivalries just less spicy than historic ones? Have Arsenal lost all hope of making it into the top 4? The analysts discuss, alongside a look up and down the Premier League table and a breakdown of this week's Champions League matches, which did not disappoint... TIMESTAMPS:
00:55 Manchester City 2-2 Liverpool
04:30 Are modern rivalries less exciting?
15:00 Villa 0-4 Spurs
25:01 Brighton 2-1 Arsenal
29:42 Everton 1-0 Man U
33:58 Useless Trivia
37:18 Atletico vs Man City
40:16 Real Madrid Chelsea
43:32 Bayern vs Villareal
45:06 Benfica vs Liverpool
In this episode the Analysts look at the return to the Premier League, with hard fought battles happening in all areas of the table. Who will triumph out of Manchester City and Liverpool in the race for the title, and which sides will end up in the top four? Can Everton turn their fortunes around or will Burnley dig themselves out of trouble again?
In this episode, the Analysts take a look a some of the blockbuster fixtures in Europe's major leagues, from El Clasico to the Derby della Capitale. Is Xavi coming into his own as a manager, and what happens next at PSG, where the wheels look to be coming off?
This week's episode is all about Chelsea. It's an ever changing scenario for the club at the moment, since the UK Government this week imposed sanctions on its owner Roman Abramovic in light of the war in Ukraine. We talk about what it will mean for the club going forwards, as well as what this represents in the broader picture of Big Football Business.
While Super League conversations continue in boardrooms across Europe, the Premier League continues to thrill fans. Another great Manchester derby, Arsenal and Spurs maybe on the up, and are Everton actually going to go down? Timestamps:
00:00:00 Intro
00:00:40 The Super League 2.0
00:15:45 Man City 4-1 Man U
00:32:29 Useless Trivia
00:40:37 Spurs 5-0 Everton
1:02:00 Watford 2-3 Arsenal
In this episode, a mournful pair of Analysts bid farewell to their beloved Bielsa, as the Argentine departs Leeds United. How will his replacement, Jesse Marsch, fare at Elland Road? Also up for discussion are the Carabao Cup Final, the apology issued by Mike Riley and PGMOL to Everton following a controversial decision and whether Arsenal are on the up.
A shorter ep this week, breaking down the rise of NFTs in the Premier League and the most exciting game of the weekend, Spurs' dramatic victory over Man City at the Etihad. Timestamps:
00:50 NTFs in the game
15:35 Spurs take down Man City yet again - should we be surprised? Should City be fearful??
This week the Analysts recap the AFCON Final and some of the tournament's highlights, give an instant reaction to the Newcastle-Everton relegation showdown, and look at some of the teams surprisingly dumped out of the FA Cup.
Another record breaking January transfer window has come to an end, with some intriguing moves from several different Premier League players and clubs.
We take our pick of the most interesting and potentially impactful signings made this month, as well as a closer look at two clubs who have done a lot of business - and who needed to do a lot of business - Everton and Newcastle.
This week the Analysts answer last week’s question of Benitez’s future, take a look at the arrival of Philippe Coutinho at Aston Villa, and assess the Bundesliga’s approach to postponement.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:48 Rafa Benitez sacked by Everton
00:18:57 Philippe Coutinho returns to the Prem
00:27:00 Useless Trivia
00:36:25 Christian Eriksen offered contract by Brentford
00:43:03 AFCON updates
00:47:15 The Bundesliga approach to postponement
Matches are getting postponed left and right in England, and some under suspicious circumstances. Tottenham and Everton are both wasting away. Long live AFCON month. Timestamps:
00:00:00 Intro
00:03:17 Liverpool won't be investigated by the EFL, the curious case of Leicester's injuries, the mistakes in English Football's treatment of Covid times and AFCON
00:36:23 Useless Trivia
00:39:56 Conte's Spurs
00:53:10 BREAKING - Newcastle sign Chris Wood
00:57:47 Rafa Benitez's Everton
01:08:34 The AFCON so far
In this episode, the Analysts put on their Sporting Directors' caps and take turns going down the table to determine the single best (and mostly realistic) signing for each of the Premier League's 20 teams. Who's in need of a new talisman and who just needs their squad shoring up?
Manchester United can't seem to win a game with their new tactical setup, the January transfer window is upon us, and a mid-season look at the Premier League's top performers. The Analysts break it down. Timestamps:
00:00:36 Manchester United’s struggling system
00:19:49 Ferran Torres to Barcelona - but why?!
00:34:34 Jarrod Bowen is West Ham’s gift that keeps on giving
00:39:52 Useless Trivia
00:42:49 Goalkeeper of the season so far
00:49:53 Defender of the season so far
00:55:34 Midfielder of the season so far
01:03:18 Forward of the season so far
In this episode, the Analysts discuss Leeds’ downfall and who’s to blame, why Chelsea are struggling to continue at last season’s level, and whether Arsenal are on the up for good under Arteta.
This week the Analysts take a look at how the Ballon d'Or has changed since voting opened up from 2007 - has the winner of the illustrious award always been the correct one? Also up for discussion are the COVID outbreak at Spurs, Jude Bellingham's comments on former match-fixer Felix Zwayer and the appointment of Ralf Rangnick at Manchester United.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:45 Should we value the Ballon d’Or?
00:20:36 Ralf Rangnick arrives in the Premier League
00:38:48 Useless Trivia
00:41:17 Tottenham’s COVID outbreak
00:51:30 Jude Bellingham’s Comments
01:01:00 Colombian Match Fixing
This week the Analysts take a step back from the ins and outs of league football to take a look at how the World Cup is shaping up, one year from now. Several nations have now qualified - and it still hangs in the balance for many others.
Here we take a look at who is looking the strongest, who are our dark horses for the competition at the moment, and a broad look at who’s headed to the playoffs and what that will look like around the world.
And, as always, a bit of useless trivia.
This week the Analysts take a look at the first games for several clubs and their new managers - who all seem to have enjoyed a boost to form under new management. Watford scored 4 past Manchester United to finally put Solsjkaer out of a job, and 12 goals were scored across Burnley-Palace and Newcastle-Brighton. All that and more awaits!
It's the International Break but football hasn't slowed down one bit. Several clubs have now appointed new managers, while elsewhere on either end of the England team, Harrys Kane and Maguire have been enjoying mixed praises. On the other side of things, one London club has a big new investor. Timestamps below:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:51 Eddie Howe confirmed for Newcastle
00:16:32 Norwich close to appointing Dean Smith
00:28:16 Useless Trivia
00:31:16 Steve Gerrard takes the Aston Villa job
00:50:11 West Ham’s new Czech Shareholder
00:53:56 England and a tale of two Harrys
00:59:32 Our final thoughts on what's needed from Managers
This week the Analysts take a look at the managerial merry-go-round that's taken place of late, with new openings made and those same openings filled.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:45 Conte to Spurs
00:23:27 Xavi to Barcelona
00:37:05 Useless Trivia
00:41:30 Farke sacked by Norwich
00:47:23 Smith sacked by Villa
This week the Analysts take a look at the 5-0 mauling delivered to United at the hands of Liverpool over the weekend, and what it means not only for both of those teams, but the state of the Premier League. Also up for discussion are the fates of West Ham and Spurs, whether Norwich should be banned from the top flight, and what's going on in Serie A.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:34 Manchester United 0-5 Liverpool
00:34:50 Useless Trivia
00:40:47 West Ham 1-0 Spurs
00:53:00 Chelsea 7-0 Norwich
01:05:00 Let’s talk about….Serie A
Was Ronaldo returning to Manchester United just a big mistake all round? Should Chelsea switch their system to get more from Lukaku if they're winning games anyway? Is Mohamed Salah the best player in the world right now? All that and more in this week's episode. Timestamps:
00:00:38 Manchester United vs Leicester
00:10:24 Ronaldo Regrets?
00:19:28 Brentford vs Chelsea
00:29:18 Useless Trivia
00:31:46 Watford vs Liverpool
00:33:24 Is Salah the best player in the world?
00:41:38 Arsenal vs Crystal Palace
00:59:05 Newcastle vs Tottenham
This week the Analysts take a look at the Newcastle takeover - it’s finally been completed. Who will they buy, how much can they spend, and how long is Steve Bruce for this world?
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:36 Newcastle’s Takeover
00:46:24 Useless Trivia
00:48:50 The Nations League Final
In this episode, the Analysts have a look at some of the news coming out of the fan-led review of football governance taking place in the UK, with the final report to be published later this month. Also up for discussion is Watford making the first managerial sacking of the season, and three different Premier League sides off to notable starts.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:41 The fan-led review coming later this month
00:22:31 Watford sack Xisco, hire Ranieri
00:36:18 Useless Trivia
00:41:25 Let’s talk about….Brighton
00:48:23 Let’s talk about….Southampton
00:57:11 Let’s talk about….Leicester City
01:02:13 Settling the Score
Having taken a break from covering the recent Premier League results to discuss transfers and predictions, the Analysts take a look at what's happened over the last few weeks in the league. From Spurs to Man City and from Brighton to Leeds there have been peaks and troughs in early season form for almost every club. Much to discuss.
In this episode, the Analysts bring in footballing icon Xavi to give his top five Premier League transfers of the summer window.
In this episode, the Analysts take a look at the second half of their Premier League predictions. Which three sides will face the drop, and which sides look set to kick on after a successful summer?
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:45 Cameron flees the Corsairios
00:04:25 11th Place
00:09:50 12th Place
00:15:42 13th Place
00:21:28 14th Place
00:26:45 15th Place
00:32:00 Useless Trivia
00:39:56 16th Place
00:44:17 17th Place
00:46:50 18th Place
00:51:37 19th Place
00:56:50 20th Place
This week the Analysts take a look at how they see the 21/22 Premier League finishing up, with the first half of their prediction of final league standings. Also up for discussion are the bizarre abandonment of the Brazil-Argentina game, England's likeable lads, and the proposal for a 2 Year World Cup.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:40 Brazil vs. Argentina Abandoned
00:05:35 Hungary vs. England sees racial abuse
00:07:58 Morocco flea Guinea after coup
00:08:50 The Proposal for a 2 Year World Cup
00:10:48 1st Place
00:16:37 2nd & 3rd Place
00:23:30 4th Place
00:30:32 5th Place
00:34:15 Useless Trivia
00:36:40 6th Place
00:40:15 7th Place
00:45:30 8th Place
00:49:30 9th Place
00:54:16 10th Place
00:57:11 Guessing Game
Some huge potential and confirmed transfers across the board have made for an exciting week of Premier League and European activity. Oh, and the games have been pretty good too. Timestamps:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:39 Ronaldo to Manchester United
00:11:55 Mbappe to Real Madrid
00:25:17 Useless Trivia
00:29:05 Spurs 1-0 Watford
00:35:25 Manchester City 5-0 Arsenal
00:44:56 Newcastle 2-2 Southampton
00:48:45 West Ham 2-2 Crystal Palace
00:53:11 Chelsea vs Liverpool
00:59:31 Some Odds and Ends
This week the Analysts take a look at the statement coming from the Premier League to not allow players to travel to red-list countries for their international games, the brawl that broke out between Nice fans and Marseille players, and the reason Anthony Martial keeps getting another chance.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:42 The Premier League statement on the international break
00:20:25 Nice vs. Marseille - literally
00:28:50 Useless Trivia
00:36:15 West Ham 4-1 Leicester City
00:46:10 Arsenal 0-2 Chelsea
00:55:50 Southampton 1-1 Manchester United
00:59:40 Robert Lewandowski wants a challenge
The Premier League is BACK! The Analysts take a look at the opening games of the 21/22 season and break down who surprised us, who disappointed us, and who's up to business as usual. Stay tuned for Useless Trivia, a revamping of Settling the Score, and a hot take featuring none other than Grant Holt.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:32 Manchester United 5-1 Leeds
00:09:28 Brentford 2-0 Arsenal
00:16:00 Spurs 1-0 Manchester City
00:31:56 Watford 3-2 Aston Villa
00:37:52 Newcastle 2-4 West Ham
00:44:05 Useless Trivia
00:47:36 Chelsea 3-0 Crystal Palace
00:53:13 Norwich 0-3 Liverpool
00:55:25 Everton 3-1 Southampton
00:58:15 Burnley 1-2 Brighton
01:00:48 Leicester 1-0 Wolves
01:03:40 Settling the Score
Messi's time at Barcelona has finally come to an end, as Jack Grealish heads North and Harry Kane looks to be staying in London - all in the shadow of a new exciting season looming large on the horizon. Much to talk about:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:32 Messi joins PSG
00:29:08 Useless Trivia
00:34:56 Jack Grealish to Man City
00:42:32 Harry Kane is staying at Spurs?
00:47:42 The 21/22 Season, Games to Watch and Rogue Shouts
After a short break following the Euros, the Analysts are back with a look at Manchester City's big moves in the window, an unconventional strategy to progress your career, and why football fans don't watch the Olympics.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:45 Should Jack Grealish move to Manchester City?
00:12:07 Is Harry Kane's strike justified?
00:48:42 Useless Trivia
00:52:25 Choosing the National League over League One?
01:02:05 Why don't football fans watch the Olympics?
In this week's episode, a pair of sorrowful Analysts unpack the Euro 2020 Final between England and Italy. Also up for discussion are some of the other stories that have developed over the summer, ranging from transfers to rule changes to the chaotic situation at Barcelona.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:45 England vs Italy
00:34:25 Useless Trivia
00:36:13 Summer Stories Roundup
It's on everybody's lips and in everyone's hearts.... could England actually win the Euros? In this episode the analysts look at how the two Euros semi finals went down, and preview the big final. Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
00:42 England vs Denmark
23:43 Italy vs Spain
41:30 Useless Trivia
42:52 A preview of The Final
In the fourth of the preview episodes for the Quarter Finals, the Analysts take a look at the later Quarter Final game of Saturday: England taking on Ukraine.
In the third of the preview episodes for the Quarter Finals, the Analysts take a look at the earlier Quarter Final game of Saturday: Czech Republic vs. Denmark.
In the second of the preview episodes for the Quarter Finals, the Analysts take a look at the later Quarter Final game of Friday: Belgium taking on Italy.
In the first of the special preview episodes for the Quarter Finals, the Analysts take a look at the earlier Quarter Final game of Friday: Switzerland taking on Spain.
In this episode, the Analysts break down the Euros Round of 16 games which took place over the last week. From the dizzying heights of England beating Germany for the first time in a knockout game in over 50 years to the low lows of some of the tournaments favourites crashing out in France and the Netherlands. Timestamps below.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:38 England 2-0 Germany
00:21:22 France 3 (4) - 3 (5) Switzerland
00:35:09 Netherlands 0-2 Czech Republic
00:40:34 Croatia 3-5 Spain
00:44:50 Useless Trivia
00:47:42 Denmark 4-0 Wales
00:51:21 Italy 2-1 Austria
00:54:25 Belgium 1-0 Portugal
01:01:12 Sweden 1-2 Ukraine
In this special episode, Cameron and Rupert take a look at how the Group stage of the Euros wrapped up, as well as a look at how England could line up in order to beat Germany in the Round of 16. Also up for discussion are some of the other matchups in the first round of the knockouts.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:45 How the Groups Wrapped Up
00:05:25 How do England beat Germany?
00:27:45 The Rest of the Knockouts
This week the Analysts have a look at the final round of group stage games and what they might tell us about performances later in the tournament.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:35 Group A
00:18:45 Group C
00:24:50 Group B
00:37:00 Useless Trivia
00:41:00 Group D
00:56:07 Group E
01:00:00 Group F
This week the Analysts take a look at the first round of games from Euro 2020. Which teams got it right, which teams got it wrong, and which players should you be keeping an eye out for?
00:00:57 - Rogue Shout
00:07:51 - Group A
00:16:25 - Group B
00:25:37 - Group C
00:32:55 - Useless Trivia
00:37:48 - Group D
00:54:51 - Group E
01:01:20 - Group F
This week the Analysts take a look at what we could expect from this England side at the upcoming European Championship. Also up for investigation is their League Table Predictions from the start of the season, what they got right and where they went wrong.
00:00:49 How far will England go in the Euros?
00:24:45 Useless Trivia
00:27:31 Season In Review - Top Half
00:28:02 Manchester City
00:31:23 Manchester United
00:34:30 Liverpool
00:39:50 Chelsea
00:42:22 Leicester City
00:45:10 West Ham United
00:49:34 Tottenham Hotspur
00:51:01 Arsenal
00:56:13 Leeds United
01:01:45 Everton
This week the Analysts have a look at a hattrick of Finals; Champions League, Europa League and Championship Playoffs. Also up for discussion is the proposed scrapping of the away goals rule and the final cut of the England squad for the Euros.
00:00:40 Away Goals rule changes
00:06:45 Champions League Final
00:21:52 Europa League Final
00:31:11 Championship Playoffs Final
00:41:00 Useless Trivia
00:44:05 England’s Euros Squad
This week the Analysts give out their Individual Awards of the Season, ranging from Player of the Season to Worst Signing of the Season. Seven players need to be dropped from the provisional 33-man squad announced earlier today and who will they pick to leave out, as well as coverage of the final day of the season.
00:00:38 The Final Day of the Season
00:20:15 Guessing Game
00:22:10 End of Season Awards
00:23:16 Player of the Season
00:27:43 Young Player of the Season
00:31:26 Signing of the Season
00:35:16 Worst Signing of the Season
00:52:41 Useless Trivia
00:54:44 England’s 33-man Squad
01:13:08 Guessing Game Resolved
The FA Cup final saw Leicester City lift the trophy for the first time in their club's history, and what can this game tell us about things to come, both the Foxes' future as a club and Chelsea's performance in this season's Champions League final? With Zinedine Zidane and Andrea Pirlo both rumoured to be on the move this summer, where might they go, and could we see them in Premier League roles? Finally, a parliamentary petition has been launched in the UK as the fallout from the Super League continues to affect the global football landscape.
00:01:05 The FA Cup Final - Leicester
00:14:33 Guessing Game
00:15:31 The FA Cup Final - Chelsea
00:29:15 Management Carousel - Zinedine Zidane
00:45:47 Management Carousel - Andrea Pirlo
00:52:30 Useless Trivia
00:54:55 Parliamentary Petition Launched
01:03:26 Guessing Game Resolved & Settling the Score
In this episode, the Analysts name their respective Teams of the Season. Where do they agree and where do they not? Who are the biggest omissions and oddest inclusions?
00:00:53 Team of the Season Criteria
00:04:45 Cam’s Goalkeeper
00:06:12 Rupert’s Goalkeeper
00:08:07 Cam’s Left Back
00:10:06 Rupert’s Left Back
00:11:45 Cam’s First Centre Back
00:12:53 Rupert’s First Centre Back
00:14:00 Rupert’s Second Centre Back
00:16:07 Cam’s Second Centre Back
00:18:18 Cam’s Right Back
00:21:25 Rupert’s Right Back
00:23:54 Cam’s Right Holding Midfielder
00:26:06 Rupert’s Holding Midfielder
00:27:33 Rupert’s Right Central Midfielder
00:29:17 Cam’s Left Holding Midfielder
00:32:26 Cam’s Attacking Midfielder
00:33:10 Rupert’s Right Attacking Midfielder
00:34:29 Rupert’s Left Central Midfielder
00:37:45 Cam’s Left Winger
00:40:44 Rupert’s Left Attacking Midfielder
00:41:39 Cam’s Right Winger
00:44:56 Rupert’s Striker
00:45:25 Cam’s Striker
00:47:17 Who missed out and why?
00:55:45 Manager of the Season
01:00:59 Useless Trivia
This week the Analysts take a look at the European football that was played midweek, as well as the football on the weekend that wasn’t. The air is thick with revolution, and not just because Jose Mourinho is back in work.
00:00:52 Manchester United vs. Liverpool Postponed
00:18:55 Guessing Game
00:20:18 Jose Mourinho appointed Roma manager
00:27:14 The Social Media Blackout
00:36:43 Useless Trivia
00:39:50 Real Madrid vs. Chelsea
00:48:10 PSG vs. Manchester City
00:55:18 Manchester United vs. Roma
01:01:15 Villarreal vs. Arsenal
01:05:05 Guessing Game Resolved
01:07:15 Settling the Score
Plenty to go over in this week's episode between the League Cup Final, the Premier League Hall of Fame, and potential replacements to Jose Mourinho at Tottenham. Also up for discussion are the proposed takeover of Arsenal by Spotify CEO and co-founder Daniel Ek, the emergence of phoenix clubs in the wake of the Super League, and the thrilling conclusions to both La Liga and Ligue 1.
00:00:54 The Premier League Hall of Fame
00:19:31 Guessing Game
00:20:20 Daniel Ek looks to buy Arsenal
00:25:13 Dial Square FC and “Phoenix” Clubs
00:27:35 Useless Trivia
00:30:58 The Carabao Cup Final
00:39:48 Jose’s Replacement
00:52:14 The Exciting Finishes in La Liga & Ligue 1
00:57:50 Guessing Game Resolved
01:00:02 Settling the Score
With the Super League announced this Sunday, the Analysts breakdown what it is, what the problems are, and what happens next.
00:00:35 What is the Super League?
00:07:24 Why is the Super League a problem?
00:53:10 What happens next?
As some of the postseason narratives begin to take shape, should a certain player make the XI for England at the Euros? Will Harry Kane be able to leave Spurs if he wants and where might he go, and what did we learn, tactically, from Leeds' 10 man heroics against Manchester City?
00:00:40 Should Jesse Lingard start for England?
00:22:15 Guessing Game
00:24:15 Harry Kane to leave Spurs?
00:50:40 Useless Trivia
00:54:00 Guardiola vs. Bielsa
01:01:50 West Brom keep on trucking
01:03:05 Guessing Game Resolved & Settling the Score
This week the Analysts focus on managers - who have we underrated and who’s turning out to be outdated?
00:00:43 Thomas Tuchel & Chelsea
00:11:50 Sam Allardyce & West Bromwich Albion
00:21:35 Guessing Game
00:23:05 Ole Gunnar Solskjaer & Manchester United
00:32:06 Mikel Arteta & Arsenal
00:45:13 Useless Trivia
00:48:12 Jose Mourinho & Spurs
00:59:46 Guessing Game Resolved
01:03:08 Settling the Score
With Aguero set to leave Manchester City at the end of the season, where will he go and who will come in to replace him? Is there a way to make the international scene more engaging, and what is the Swiss-style model being talked about in regards to the Champions League?
00:00:40 Aguero to leave Manchester City
00:32:30 Guessing Game
00:33:42 The International Headache
00:41:52 Useless Trivia
00:45:54 A Swiss-style Champions League
01:03:58 Guessing Game Resolved
This week the Analysts look at the non-English Champions League sides remaining, as well as the recent England squad announcement and Xabi Alonso’s entry into management.
00:01:05 Xabi Alonso becomes Monchengladbach manager
00:06:08 England Squad
00:12:35 Guessing Game
00:14:15 Bayern Munich
00:23:08 Paris Saint-Germain
00:30:30 Useless Trivia
00:33:00 Real Madrid
00:42:37 Borussia Dortmund
00:51:15 Porto
00:56:35 Wrap Up Questions
01:01:50 Guessing Game Resolved
The popular online platform Football Index went into administration this week with punters losing millions of pounds and questions asked of the Gambling Commission. What does the future hold for a Sheffield United side without their fearless leader, and is Pep Guardiola overrated, underrated or something in between?
00:00:35 The Football Index Scandal
00:19:30 Guessing Game
00:20:42 Chris Wilder leaves Sheffield United
00:42:30 Useless Trivia
00:46:00 Are we taking Pep for granted?
01:14:15 Guessing Game Resolved & Settling the Score
Looking at Arsene Wenger's proposed changes to the offside rule, do the Analysts think this will help develop the sport? What is happening in the Chinese Super League with clubs changing their names and being dissolved, and are Schalke beyond the point of no return? The Manchester Derby saw first host second, but was the surprise result really that much of a surprise?
00:01:05 - A Change to the Offside Rule
00:09:20 - Crisis in Chinese Football
00:33:45 - Guessing Game
00:35:17 - Manchester City vs. Manchester United
00:51:40 - Useless Trivia
00:53:30 - Schalke’s Suffering
01:01:23 - Guessing Game Resolved & Settling the Score
Join the Analysts this week for a look at the controversy brought about by Luke Shaw's post-match comments, the turmoil over in Catalonia and a look at whether or not football is coming home.
00:40 Why was Barcelona’s CEO arrested?
13:45 Guessing Game
15:57 Are you Shaw you heard that?
29:28 Useless Trivia
31:40 Could England host Euro 2020?
37:10 Settling the Score & Guessing Game Resolved
The rumour mill has been as busy as ever this past week, ranging from whispers in the Tottenham dressing room to keen-eyed fans scuppering Matt Targett's Fantasy Football season. Is the current crisis at Liverpool a familiar pattern at Klopp teams, and can fans in the UK expect to catch any of the games this season live at their own grounds?
00:00:45 Aston Villa ban Fantasy Football
00:12:35 Guessing Game
00:14:00 The Scoustian Pact
00:35:00 Useless Trivia
00:36:30 Fans returning to the ground
00:41:15 Why is it going wrong for Mourinho?
00:58:00 Guessing Game Resolved
01:02:30 Settling the Score
This week Cameron and Rupert take a look at some of the Champions League and Europa League games coming up this week, with a One-to-Watch player from each game. Also up for discussion is the open letter sent to Mark Zuckerberg and Jack Dorsey by British footballing authorities and what we can take away from it.
00:00:35 The Open Letter to Social Media Companies
00:15:32 Guessing Game
00:17:52 RB Leipzig vs. Liverpool
00:26:02 Atletico Madrid vs. Chelsea
00:31:33 Borussia Monchengladbach vs. Manchester City
00:36:25 Useless Trivia
00:38:48 Real Sociedad vs. Manchester United
00:45:00 Benfica vs. Arsenal
00:50:38 Wolfsberg vs. Tottenham Hotspur
00:55:45 Slavia Prague vs. Leicester City
01:02:27 Guessing Game Resolved
01:06:15 Settling the Score
What would the Premier League be without a healthy dose of Mike Dean controversy? Well officiated, perhaps? Join the Analysts for a look at some of the games that happened both on and off the pitch with a look at virtual fixtures and referee protection alongside a selection of Premier League matches from the week.
00:00:58 Shout Out for Mental Health Cup
00:06:25 Guessing Game
00:08:15 Mike Dean and Referee Accountability
00:23:30 Useless Trivia
00:26:45 Liverpool 1-4 Manchester City
00:48:55 Manchester United 9-0 Southampton
00:55:48 Tottenham 0-1 Chelsea
1:05:18 Settling the Score & Guessing Game Resolved
As the winter window closes with only a handful of permanent transfers made, the Analysts look at the contract leak coming out of Barcelona, as well as an investigation into the practices of gambling companies involved in the game.
00:00:45 Gambling in Football
00:24:32 Guessing Game
00:28:14 Useless Trivia
00:35:50 Lionel Messi’s Contract Leak
00:48:45 Transfers in the Premier League
01:00:50 Guessing Game Resolved
01:05:40 Settling the Score
With Chelsea legend Frank Lampard dismissed by the club as manager, the Analysts look at whether he deserved to go and what the causes were behind this sacking happening when it did. Further developments on the European Premier League story come this week as well, as FIFA announces bans for any players participating in it from the World Cup, Euros, and Champions League. Did West Ham & West Brom land themselves in a heap of trouble with the Premier League over the transfer of Robert Snodgrass, and why are Liverpool looking so lackluster this season?
00:00:35 Frank Lampard leaves Chelsea
00:24:00 Guessing Game
00:27:08 Liverpool's Lack of Form
00:42:35 Useless Trivia
00:48:30 FIFA's Bans
00:57:35 Robert Snodgrass' Transfer
01:05:50 Guessing Game Resolved & Settling the Score
Do you have to beat the best to be the best is the question tackled by the Analysts this week, as they investigate a Manchester United side that tops the table despite no wins against their fellow top six sides so far. A developing story surrounding a former youth player and his father could see one side in trouble with the Premier League and who is the most efficient goalscorer of all time?
00:00:36 Do you have to beat the best to be the best?
00:33:50 Guessing Game
00:36:28 Useless Trivia
00:47:50 The Almeida Allegation
01:01:55: Settling the Score
Join the Analysts this week for a look at some of the fairytale FA Cup ties over the weekend, with discussion of both on and off the pitch exploits by the plucky underdog sides. Also in conversation is Kieran Trippier’s ten week ban from the sport, TV personalities signing to EFL sides and whether trophies matter as much as European qualification.
00:00:35 Kieran Trippier’s Betting Ban
00:17:32 Guessing Game
00:19:00 Marine & Chorley
00:28:55 Useless Trivia
00:34:13 Crawley Town & Mark Wright
00:43:02 Cups or Qualification
00:58:46 Guessing Game Resolved
Coming up to the halfway point of the season, the Analysts are back from the Christmas break with a look at the state of the season so far.
00:57 Liverpool
04:14 Manchester United
10:24 Leicester City
15:28 Tottenham Hotspur
21:30 Guessing Game
23:30 Manchester City
29:30 Everton
34:40 Aston Villa
38:35 Chelsea
51:15 Southampton
53:50 West Ham
55:08 Useless Trivia
1:00:15 Arsenal
1:05:30 Leeds United
1:08:15 Wolves
1:12:15 Crystal Palace
1:13:32 Newcastle United
1:16:15 Burnley
1:18:08 Brighton & Hove Albion
1:20:05 Fulham
1:21:45 West Bromwich Albion
1:23:05 Sheffield United
1:30:00 Guessing Game Answer
1:31:30 Settling the Score
00:45 - Substitutions in the Premier League
15:55 - Guessing Game
18:15 - A Selection of PL Games
47:29 - Useless Trivia
54:28 - The Case for Big Sam
1:11:53 - Settling the Score
This week sees the Analysts tackle some broader discussion points away from the games of the week, with opinionated debate reigning supreme. Three topics are up on the menu this week: Antoine Griezmann's cancellation of his Huawei partnership, Sir Alex Ferguson's culpability for Manchester United's current state and the impact of Brexit on youth football in the UK.
Timestamps: 1:00 - Antoine Griezmann and Huawei 16:55 - Guessing Game 19:48 - How Sir Alex Ferguson destroyed Manchester United 37:55 - Useless Trivia 45:39 - The impact of Brexit on Youth Football 57:51 - Settling the Score
Join the Analysts for what may be the last episode in this format covering the games of the week as well as Useless Trivia and Guessing Game as always with a look into some of the side stories off the pitch as well.
Did too much vino tinto stop this player becoming as good as Messi & Ronaldo? Why on earth has the term "t-shirt line" entered every commentator's vocabulary? Join the Analysts for a look at this week's games in the Premier League as well as some exciting developments surrounding the Magic of the Cup.
Which current application of the rules influenced two major decisions this week and should be reworked according to one of the Analysts? Is the dawn of Welé upon us, and why on Earth did Pépé lose his cool?
Part 2 of One Signing in January sees the Analysts take a look at who'd they'd like to see added by each Premier League club. Will Director of Football Cameron and Assistant Manager Rupert be able to change the fortunes of these clubs?
Footballer Face-Off is the newest segment to hit the podcast where each host picks a player and makes their case, starting this week with Sergio Aguero and Didier Drogba. Hollywood has embarked upon an unlikely union with AFC Wrexham and what do the Owls need to do to get promoted?
A change of pace in Armchair Analysts' first bonus episode - Cameron and Rupert discuss the Pay Per View model and its reception amongst fans, as well as the system surrounding referees and their culpability as compared to leagues elsewhere. With the season well underway, they also look at which teams should add which players in part one of two of One Signing in January, where each Analyst puts forwards a recruitment they would make for each side come the winter window.
At what point is a handball Ball-to-Hand, and does this term have any meaning beyond the playground? When is the right time to chip the ball, and who was on the cover of FIFA Football 2004? Join the Analysts for all this and more in an episode fraught with debate between the hosts.
Controversy in the league this week as a wide discussion takes place over simulation and the Analysts take part. Who is this week's mystery player in Guessing Game and do you need to drink real ale to start for Burnley?
With slightly more down-to-earth results in the Premier League, focus turns to the specific strengths and weaknesses of each side as normalcy resumes. Officiating continues to be a hot topic with several high profile mistakes as well as big losses for the new elites. A high scoring thriller takes place in new segment Upset of the Week.
VAR continues to be a headache in this week’s episode of Armchair Analysts as Cameron and Rupert look at why it’s been such an issue in the Premier League. Project Big Picture is over but has made way for even larger schemes with the European Premier League looming over world football, and a musical submission sees the show’s first fan content played.
This week the Analysts look at a couple of the games over the international break and question whether it was the best idea to have one in the current climate. Also under the microscope is the recently leaked Project Big Picture and what it could mean for the future of English football.
With the summer transfer window closed and four increasingly bizarre weeks of Premier League football played, the season in in full force. Guessing Game switches sides and the Analysts take a look at who won the window.
Join the Analysts for another week's breakdown of the games alongside new segment Guessing Game where listeners try to figure out the player from Cameron's hints, an explanation behind the confusing new handball rules, and even the origins of one of British football's strangest nicknames.
Goals galore in this weeks episode of Armchair Analysts as the boys dissect one of the liveliest gameweeks in recent memory. Settling the Score makes a return and records are broken in Useless Trivia.
Finishing up last week's league table prediction, the Analysts also look at the first 8 games of the season and discuss what this first glimpse can tell us about the various sides this campaign.
The Analysts begin the mighty task of predicting the 2020/21 Premier League table this week, as well as covering the news surrounding the UEFA Nations League.
This week the Analysts take a more in-depth look at the potential financial fallout of Messi's scuffle with Barcelona as well as the exciting implications of Juventus' new American signing. Also in the spotlight are the developing Maguire situation, the wildest transfers of the week and a debate on whether the Community Shield should be considered a trophy.
Competitive football wrapped up on Sunday with the Champions League Final but the entertainment is as lively as ever with transfer drama, court dates and international call ups all featuring in this week's episode.
Have we ever seen a Bayern side quite like this one in modern football? Did German and French sides have an unfair advantage in the Champions League? Is Pep Guardiola's ultimate weakness a competitive ceiling for the teams he manages? The new Champions League and Europa League Scheduling has created a wild week of football to discuss - and the results haven't been too bad either... Join the analysts as European Football moves into the semi-finals.
European Football has returned and with a packed schedule seeing us through to the 23rd of August, the Analysts have a look at which sides look impressive as ever and which look like they might prove to be a dark horse.
With one big Final played and another to look forward to, the Analysts look at the evolving Newcastle takeover situation, the effects of the FA Cup result and what this season's Championship victors might bring to the 20/21 campaign.
The 2019/20 Premier League season has finally drawn to a close and the Analysts reflect on a season unlike any we've seen before. An exciting final day is up for discussion, as well as the importance of the number 43, cross-generational opposition and a heartbreaking gambling loss with the last kick of the season.
As the final day of the season looms, the Analysts indulge in yet more Useless Trivia and new segment Footballers & Twitter alongside the results of the week. Should clubs hire managers based on name? Who are the Red Hot Chilli Papers? Do Villa have a reasonable chance of staying in the Premier League? With huge upsets as well as triumphant performances, there's plenty to play for and more to discuss.
Does Alan Smith make his own sandwiches? Join the Analysts for two gameweeks' worth of matches covering topics from Norwich's relegation to Martin Tyler's take on how much barbers earn. With CAS ruling that Manchester City will be able to play in next season's Champions League, how does this affect the battle for the remaining spots, and can Bong Joon-Ho's Parasite tell us anything about Financial Fair Play?
This week the Analysts tackle the first of two back-to-back gameweeks, with a whopping 17 matches under the microscope. With English youngsters like Mason Greenwood, Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden all putting in Man of the Match displays, is it time for England fans to get excited about the future of the international side? Also up for discussion, with the league winners decided and signings starting to roll in, are we seeing the start of sides planning for the 20/21 campaign? Stay tuned for another new segment - Useless Trivia - as well as the uncovering of Mourinho's secret to vitality.
Join the Analysts for another week of discussion, speculation and outright fantasy as they cover the hectic Premier League schedule as we come towards the end of the 2019/20 season. In the spotlight this week: Liverpool's triumphant title win, whether United's post-break form is soon to end or long to endure, and the two main league narratives now the winners have been settled - the Battle for Europe and the Relegation Dogfight. Stay tuned as Settling the Score sees its first winner and battle lines are drawn between the two hosts.
Episode 2 sees Cameron and Rupert discuss the first round of games following the break, from the controversial Aston Villa/Sheffield United Hawkeye blunder to the underwhelming Merseyside Derby. Looking at which teams have come racing out of the gates and which are having a slower start, what can these games tell us about how the rest of the season might play out? Stay tuned for the brand new segment Settling the Score, where our hosts go head to head predicting the score lines of the following gameweek.
Join Cameron Macdonald and Rupert Meadows for the first episode of Armchair Analysts, where they discuss the return of the Premier League after its interruption by the global pandemic. In focus this week will be the first two returning games, Aston Villa/Sheffield United and Manchester City/Arsenal, what we might expect in terms of returning player's fitness, and some of the transfers rumoured to be happening in the next window.