From your creators, to destroyers; how do player roles complement each other?

Let’s build a complete midfield!

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou 

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What impact is it having on players and matches?

And… can we measure whether football is actually more intense than it used to be?

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Premier League struggles and Pep Guardiola’s European record, to how good Bayern Munich and Real Madrid really are.

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Duncan Alexander

Producer: Mike Stavrou 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What have they changed at their respective clubs, and are they better off for it?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Cerys Jones.

Producer: Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’ll talk the increased remit of VAR, throw-in countdowns and our own suggestions for new football laws.

Host: Duncan Alexander

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode we’ll discuss:

Wingers, penalty rebounds, tactical fouls and much more!

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So this week, we’ll discuss the tactics we have seen, and will see from the teams at the top and bottom of the table. 

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do the elements impact what happens on the pitch? 

From the rainy, cold and windy nights at Stoke.

To the scorching heat of the 1994 World Cup in the U.S.

We’ll discuss it all.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Conor O'Neill

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So is that a Mikel Arteta issue - or a league-wide one?

Host: Duncan Alexander

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Ahmed Walid

Producer: Mike Stavrou

We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are the key elements to playing on home turf, and how does it impact what happens on the pitch?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26 

Research article: Revising home advantage in sport – home advantage mediation (HAM) model

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So this week, we’ll use our good old friend data to assess the main talking point for all 20 clubs.

Host: Duncan Alexander

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Liam Tharme

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ruben Amorim’s gone, so how do they go about replacing him — both in the short, and long term?

And how does any club figure out its managerial appointments, from caretaker and interim bosses to those all-in project managers.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss the Christmas tree formation, teams who should change systems, basketball-style substitutions and more.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who are the most and least stable Premier League clubs in how they use their players?

And does stability equal success?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can stars be given total freedom, or is the collective more important?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Also - what makes players flexible? And who excels in multiple roles?

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Liam Tharme, Michael Cox, Cerys Jones

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Duncan Alexander and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should you build your team around a solid defence — or a free-flowing attack?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Duncan Alexander and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How has it evolved, who does it best and why are they suddenly scoring loads of goals?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox and Mark Carey 

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So, at the halfway point of the league phase — how are the favourites shaping up, and who has caught our eye on Europe’s biggest stage?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Ben Green & Steve Hankey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So, where is it going wrong for Arne Slot’s Liverpool — and crucially, how do they fix their issues?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the late 2000s the majority of teams lined up in a 4-4-2 - but since then, that figure has been steadily dropping.

We find out why.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey, Liam Tharme and Michael Cox

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With: Jordan Campbell & İlkay Gündoğan

Executive Producer: Abi Paterson

Producers: Mike Stavrou and Paul Iliffe

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Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham and Jack Grealish were left out of the squad by Tuchel, despite their “star status”.

When building a team, what is the priority; star players, or players who fit the system?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey, Liam Tharme and Michael Cox

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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Are teams actually going long more often, and how is it changing the game?

Host: Duncan Alexander 

With: Michael Cox and Mark Carey 

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How are they doing it and more importantly, can they sustain it?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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Which got us thinking — why so few? And is it partly to do with the influx of new signings creating unfamiliarity and uncertainty?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6633559/2025/09/16/premier-league-signings-goals/ 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Duncan Alexander is joined by Mark Carey and Liam Tharme to discuss.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re going to answer your questions on all sorts — iPads, subs, mavericks and more!

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou & Paul Iliffe

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

And we’ll look at other examples of managers who seem wedded to just one system - can that approach really work?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are the main tactical challenges in making the jump, and how has the transition changed over time?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

And today we’re asking whether the English top flight has gone old school… with more long throw-ins than ever, “proper” No.9s and promoted sides threatening to be competitive…

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re kickstarting the new season with our big Premier League preview show.

We’ll analyse the key tactical talking points, managerial changes and the new entrants to the English top flight.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every episode will also have a written piece on the website, which we will link here

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Jacob Whitehead and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou and Abi Paterson

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every episode will also have a written piece on the website, which we will link below.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Jacob Whitehead and Mark Carey

Producer: Mike Stavrou

https://pod.fo/e/2fe33b 

https://pod.fo/e/2fe34e 

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We’ll hear from Romeo Jozak, the former academy head and technical director of Dinamo Zagreb and technical director of Croatia from 2013-17.

Every episode will also have a written piece on the website, which we will link below.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6445372/2025/07/17/football-architects-croatia-football-overperformers

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Jacob Whitehead and Juraj Vrdoljak

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’ll hear about how they established a footballing DNA, and created a team of legendary players such as Eden Hazard, Kevin De Bruyne, and many more. 

Every episode will also have a written piece on the website, which we will link below.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6445749/2025/07/10/football-architects-inside-belgium-rise-world-number-one/

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Jacob Whitehead and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the next five weeks, we’ll tell the stories of esteemed footballing nations and clubs, speaking to the unsung heroes who changed history.

Today’s episode is focused on Ajax’s rebirth and how the club was rebuilt in the image of legendary figure Johan Cruyff.

Host Michael Bailey will be joined by The Athletic’s Jacob Whitehead and a number of our tactics writers. We’ll also be hearing excerpts of Jacob's interviews with key figures who were at the forefront of these projects.

On this episode, we hear from Ruben Jongkind, former head of talent development at Ajax, and the club’s former head talent recruitment, Jasper van Leeuwen.

Every episode will also have a written piece on the website, which we will link below.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6445365/2025/07/03/football-architects-rebuilding-ajax-johan-cruyff/

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Jacob Whitehead and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’ll focus on strikerless systems, wing-backs vs full-backs and much, much more. 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

On behalf of the entire Tactics team, thank you for all of your entries and your support this season. Please complete our listener survey: https://forms.gle/atPcQnohDvRWQG2M7

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We’ll also focus on the teams who impressed us, and those who disappointed us. 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Listener survey: https://forms.gle/atPcQnohDvRWQG2M7

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two teams with contrasting styles meet in the final in Munich - so we break down how we think this one might play out.

Host: Duncan Alexander

With: Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou and Liam Warburton

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To remind you of the rules, instead of focusing on the top teams - we all pick an eleven with one player from each of the bottom 10 teams in the Premier League table (as it stands on Thursday 22nd May) and then one “wildcard” player - basically one other player from the bottom half clubs.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme.

Producers: Mike Stavrou and Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Specifically… Carlo Ancelotti and Antonio Conte.

Ancelotti will be joining the Brazilian men’s national team this summer, drawing his second spell at Real Madrid to a close.

Meanwhile, Antonio Conte could be about to win the Scudetto with a third Italian club… potentially adding Napoli to his successes with Juventus and Internazionale.

Broadly speaking, Ancelotti has been more successful in European competitions — with Conte having a better success rate bringing home the domestic bacon.

But is there something in their tactical philosophies that has caused this? That’s what we talk about in this episode.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme.

Producer: Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’ll analyse a tie for the ages - Inter’s 7-6 aggregate win over Barcelona. And also PSG’s victory against Arsenal.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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We’ll discover how PSG’s press nullified Arsenal, and discuss probably the game of the season so far — Barca’s thriller against Inter.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

And we’ll discuss which of those teams are best set-up for success.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We also look ahead to the semi-finals and discuss the merits of Arsenal, Paris St Germain, Internazionale and Barcelona.

If you want more on Inter, listen here - https://pod.fo/e/2296a4 

For our bonus PSG episode, listen here - https://pod.fo/e/2c3d48

Or watch here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vB5AzIuR_cU 

For a bit on Barcelona, listen here - https://pod.fo/e/27b242 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Liam Tharme, Mark Carey, Thom Harris and Michael Cox.

Producer: Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

And we’ll attempt to discover why there is a lack of French managers across Europe’s top leagues.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Tom Williams

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They’ve just wrapped up Ligue 1 and could become the first side to win the title unbeaten.

They’re also in the final of the Coupe de France and face Aston Villa in the quarter-finals of the Champions League this week.

So how has Enrique made them so dominant?

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We’ll break down how a team who flirted with relegation last season have become one of the most difficult sides to play against in the division. 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’ll talk second balls, duels and explain what coaches are actually watching on those tiny screens on the touchline.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

We want to hear about your podcast habits. Go to theathletic.com/athletic/survey25 to fill out a short survey and be in with the chance of winning £/$100 Amazon vouchers

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German head coach Thomas Tuchel takes charge of his first games as England manager this week. 

So we’re going to reflect on some of the great, and not so great, examples of foreign international managers and ask whether the impact they had in the past still applies today?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Duncan Alexander.

Producer: Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This season’s competition is at the quarter-final stages — giving us the perfect moment to look back on what’s happened and what the rest of the Champions League has in store for us.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are they a reliable and consistent source of goals, how do you stop them, and which teams are the best or worst at them?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For example, what do No.8s do differently now and how have the No.9s responsibilities changed?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Building the ideal modern day centre-back: https://pod.fo/e/2ac7ed 

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Plus… what the future could hold in terms of football’s relationship with AI?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Paul Power

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What traits do they need in today’s game, what does a good partnership now look like… and how has the role changed?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We go for some obvious ones — but we’ll also talk about moves you may have missed! 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey, Liam Tharme, Thom Harris and Michael Cox

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Liverpool’s direct attacks to Crystal Palace’s runs in behind - we have you covered. 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is it about them that has intrigued us; is there an up and coming manager doing something different, and who are the hidden gems in their squad? 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox,Thom Harris and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should you always shoot across goal, should goalkeepers always save a shot at their near post… and is Zonal Marking any good - the defensive corner tactic, that is. Not the Tactics podcast legend that is Mr Michael Cox. 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So today we’re talking…

The importance of “Premier League experience” for January signings, when do new managers get “found out”, left-footed central-midfielders and much more!

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With so many games played in such a short space of time, we pore over the tactical tidbits that have emerged.

From Fulham in a back five to Chelsea leaking goals to yet another weakness in Manchester United.

We also look at Arsenal’s Saka-shaped hole, which type of passes Manchester City seem unwilling to play and much more.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Thom Harris.

Producer: Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re talking trends, teams, players, standout moments and of course, our tweak of the YEAR!

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do these clubs build their status in the English top flight and climb the table in the years after promotion?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

And… can we come up with what the most dangerous scoreline really is?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Liam Tharme, Thom Harris, Art de Roché

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ruben Amorim loves them, and he’ll be the boss at Manchester United from next week. 

And Simone Inzaghi’s Internazionale, also featuring a back three, beat Arsenal this week, had already drawn with Man City; and are yet to concede a Champions League goal.

So are back threes back? Or is this just a brief moment back in the sun?

And can Manchester United’s current squad adapt to Amorim’s favoured formation?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme.

Producer: Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Barcelona’s 4-0 win over Real Madrid in El Clasico came just three days after their 4-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Not bad!

So, how has Hansi Flick done it? Let’s find out!

Host: Matt Davies-Adams

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s been a record-busting beginning for Liverpool… so how has the transition from legendary manager Jurgen Klopp gone so smoothly at Anfield, and what are the challenges that now lie ahead for Slot?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey, Liam Tharme and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Where are their structural shortcomings, what is the plan that secures survival and is it now harder than ever to achieve it?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The evolution of these two sides under the coaching of Xabi Alonso and Vincent Kompany respectively, got us thinking… do some managers require a team of elite players in order to succeed?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Seb Stafford-Bloor, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So, the topics on today’s agenda include: Angeball 2.0, the new No.10 role and tactical revolutions at smaller clubs.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme 

Producer: Mike Stavrou

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5793283/2024/09/26/premier-league-takeaways-five-games/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So, has data actually changed football?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme 

Producer: Mike Stavrou

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5756088/2024/09/11/how-has-data-changed-football/

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5697684/2024/09/03/football-analytics-uk-evolution/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do elite players alter their style and approach, as they reach the latter stages of their careers?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Ahmed Walid

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Davies-Adams and the panel try to find some answers.

Host: Matt Davies-Adams

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme 

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at how the top teams fared and what transfers are still needed, plus various Premier League strikers.

Host: Michael Bailey 

With: Michael Cox, Thom Harris and Liam Tharme 

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week, our groupings were… title contenders, dark horses and surprise packages. If you don’t know who we shoehorned into each of those, then go have a listen back.

This week we have… European hopefuls, relegation candidates and the best of the rest.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey, Michael Cox and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’ll split this into two parts - covering 10 teams this week and the rest on our next show.

This week, we look at the title contenders, dark horses and surprise packages.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey, Duncan Alexander and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The number of goals being scored in the top division of English men’s football is at its highest rate since the 1960s.

But what has caused this?

Are goalkeepers not as good as they used to be at keeping the ball out of the net?

What has VAR done to the game in the context of goals given or denied?

And are players shooting more and better? 

This and much, much more on the final Tactics podcast of the 23/24 season.

Hosted by: Ali Maxwell

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme 

Produced by: Steve Hankey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mark and Michael are allowed to choose one player from each of the teams in the bottom half of the Premier League to make up their side.

The mathematically minded amongst you will clock that only gives them eleven players, so from one team they get two picks.

This episode really illustrates the truth held within that famous internet aphorism from E.M. Hudson:

“Dudes can literally just sit around and name old sports players and just have the best time.”

Hosted by: Ali Maxwell

With: Michael Cox & Mark Carey 

Produced by: Steve Hankey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Real Madrid came from behind in the dying minutes to knock out Bayern Munich and further cement their pedigree in this competition.

Borussia Dortmund ensured their surprising run this season continued by securing a second consecutive 1-0 win over Paris St Germain to take the semi-final 2-0 on aggregate.

Then, we look ahead to the final on Saturday 1st June at Wembley. 

Can Dortmund shock the football world to claim their second Champions League trophy at Real’s expense?

Hosted by: Ali Maxwell

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Produced by: Steve Hankey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at how well suited his style of play and personality are for taking on one of the biggest jobs in club football.

And how well set up Liverpool are as a club to move on from such a legendary manager?

Then, we look to the past to see if we can learn much about the future. 

Can Liverpool learn anything from how Manchester United moved on from Alex Ferguson and how Arsenal handled life after Arsène Wenger?

Host: Ali Maxwell

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Producer: Steve Hankey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We cast our eyes across Europe’s top five leagues, and then beyond them into the top twenty leagues across the continent, including some second tiers…

What matters most when measuring what makes a competitive league? 

Is it the finance or the depth of talent in each league year on year? Or is it how well spread both of those things are across a division? 

And should looking at how competitive a league is compared to other places influence where clubs scout for players?

HOST: Ali Maxwell

WITH: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

PRODUCER: Steve Hankey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

First up, Bayern Munich let their experience show by knocking out Arsenal 3-2 on aggregate at the Allianz Arena.

We then head to Manchester as reigning European champions Manchester City failed to retain their crown as they were knocked out on penalties by the perennial Kings of Europe Real Madrid. 

We also assess Paris St Germain progressing against a poorly disciplined Barcelona as well as discussing Borussia Dortmund doubling the German contingent in the semifinals with their win over Atletico Madrid.

And it’s in Germany we remain for the rest of the episode to reflect on the incredible achievement of the Bundesliga’s new champions, Bayer Leverkusen.

HOST: Ali Maxwell

WITH: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

PRODUCER: Steve Hankey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

First up, it’s Arsenal and Bayern Munich sharing the first leg spoils by drawing 2-2 in North London.

We then head to Madrid and rule the rule over the incredible 3-3 draw between Real Madrid and reigning European champions Manchester City. 

Our third stop is Paris to decide who showed the most “Barca DNA” in Barcelona’s 3-2 victory over Paris St Germain.

And finally, we return to the Spanish capital to assess whether Atheltico Madrid’s 2-1 advantage over Borussia Dortmund is enough when Diego Simeone’s side face the fierce atmosphere of the Signal Iduna Park.

HOST: Ali Maxwell

WITH: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

PRODUCER: Steve Hankey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Firstly, we run the rule over the final clash between the pretenders to the crown this season. 

Was Man City vs Arsenal just really boring or were there some “tactically intriguing” aspects?

The title race remains as tight as it was when we last cast our eye over it in detail five episodes ago. 

But what’s changed since then that should alter the way we analyse who will win the league?

And finally, which teams across the league will have the biggest role to play in tripping up Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool?

HOST: Ali Maxwell

WITH: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

PRODUCER: Steve Hankey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From set pieces to subs to sleep and scran, elite football teams are constantly on the lookout for ways to make improvements.

One thing you will learn is why they’re NOT making marginal gains…

So which specialist coaching jobs have gone from niche to mainstream? 

How do you measure success when a coaching role is completely brand new?

And what role may be the next to evolve from non-existent to completely essential?

Produced by Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simone Inzaghi’s side are dominating Serie A in every sense of the word. 

They have a bigger lead at this stage of the season than runaway leaders Napoli had last time out and at time of recording they have the best defensive record of any team in Europe’s top five leagues.

So what makes them so good?

What do they do that very few, if any, other teams do at the elite level of the game?

And will their manager Simone Inzaghi ever test his managerial mettle away from Italian shores?

Produced by Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manchester City, Real Madrid, Arsenal, Bayern Munich, PSG, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund make up the 2024 Champions League quarter finals.

So what shape are the last eight in Europe’s elite competition in? 

Which individual players shone in the last 16?

And how has the first knockout round changed who we think the favourites are to win the whole thing?

Produced by Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pep Guardiola's final tactical tussle with Jurgen Klopp, in the Premier League at least, is this weekend. 

We look at their individual influences on the English game since they arrived and how they’ve influenced each other too.

But who has struggled the most against the other: Pep vs Klopp, or vice versa?

And will we ever see the like of this managerial rivalry in English football ever again?

Produced by Steve Hankey.

Podcast listening habits survey - theathletic.com/survey24.

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At time of recording, two points separate three teams at the top of the Premier League.

We’ve scoured over the three title contenders to see if we can scientifically suss out who’ll be crowned Premier League champions in May.

Will it be Man City, Liverpool or Arsenal?

And which small details could cause delight or downfall for each side?

Produced by Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kylian Mbappé is leaving Paris Saint-Germain in the summer but, whisper it quietly; will they be a better team without him?

How have Tottenham Hotspur adapted to the loss of their star man Harry Kane? 

And how Have Bayern Munich had to adapt to having him?

Also, is tournament football, at club and international level; the last bastion for the superstar?

Produced by Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will anyone be able to stop Manchester City from retaining their crown?

Should Bayern Munich be amongst the favourites considering their recent blunders in the Bundesliga?

And is a dark horse going to ride to glory in this year’s competition?

Produced by Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should teams adapt their style against the big boys to try and get a result, or try to play the way they want to regardless of opposition?

Who has been most effective against the elite teams in the Premier League this season?

And what about when elite teams play each other?

Produced by Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re broadly speaking splitting Klopp’s teams into the 2019 - 21 side as “Liverpool 1.0” and looking at this current iteration as “Liverpool 2.0”

What were peak Klopp Liverpool tactically?

What has and hasn’t changed in the transition to this new team?

And what kind of a squad is he leaving for whoever Liverpool’s new manager is?

Produced by Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic’s Michael Cox, Thom Harris and Liam Tharme join Ali Maxwell to sift through forty five minutes of figures, including…

Who is the fouliest footballer in the Premier League so far this season?

Which side loves turning the opposition around at the coin toss?

What is the biggest (statistical) problem with Manchester United this season?

And seventeen more.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides and Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Has modern club football left Mourinho behind. Do a younger generation of footballers tire of his methods too quickly and has he ever been a 'defensive' coach?

Plus, why he is perfectly suited to international management now.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Ali Maxwell is joined by The Athletic's Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme - for their first podcast of 2024 - to explore the 'unrealistic' expectations on the modern-day Premier League forward.

How would an iconic frontman like Didier Drogba be judged today, is it more sustainable to have a strong finisher or to keep creating high quality chances and do goalscorers even play upfront anymore!?

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic’s Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme join Ali Maxwell to explore…

First up, full backs and defenders moving into midfield. Inversions, actions and equal & opposite reactions are all covered here.

Did the back three become an endangered species in 2023 and will wingbacks go the way of the Dodo in 2024?

What were the big statistical trends this year? More goals, fewer red cards and the comeback of… the comeback.

The 2023 “Calendar Year” table finds Chelsea and Aston Villa in unexpected places.

And Michael reflects on the multiple tactical evolutions we saw during the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

Produced by Steve Hankey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Has modern football moved away from the stereotypical 'plan B' of earlier Premier League eras and how do teams like Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle keep finding late goals.

Plus, how the role of the substitute might be evolving into a more specialist role and what is now asked of 'game-changers' like Harvey Elliott, Youri Tielemans, Elijah Adebayo and more...

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are there too many, are they too big a reward in the VAR era, or, is it in fact becoming more difficult to score?

Plus, the best player in the Premier League at winning penalties, who sent the keeper the wrong way every time, are left-footers better than right-footers and if further rule changes are in order.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic’s Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme join Ali Maxwell to explore…

First up, there’s a discussion and reflection on the managerial career of Terry Venables. 

The former England and Barcelona manager passed away this week at the age of 80 after a long illness.

Then, on to Bernardo Silva.

How rare is his level and type of versatility?

Does his ability as an elite all rounder mean he’s better than some elite players with narrower skill sets, like Haaland or Salah?

And does his tactical acumen and strong communication skills mean a future in coaching is in the offing?

Produced by Adonis Pratsides and Steve Hankey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To compare and contrast their styles Ali Maxwell is joined by The Athletic's Michael Cox, Liam Tharme and Charlotte Harpur to discuss their similar coaching identities and explore how much that is tied to their nation's football identity.

The panel analyse their on-pitch tactical focus, with influences from Johan Cruyff and Louis van Gaal as well as their off-pitch handling of the media and personnel with their respective squads.

Produced by Guy Clarke

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic’s Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Thom Harris join Ali Maxwell to explore…

Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen. What do they do in and out of possession, how have their new signings settled in and can they sustain it to beat Bayern Munich to the Bundesliga?

We also talk about an even bigger surprise in La Liga. At time of recording Girona top La Liga by two points ahead of Real Madrid with former Rayo Vallecano coach Michel performing a minor miracle for the Catalan minnows.

There’s also a nice nod to… Nice. They aren’t top but have hovered around second place in Ligue 1 this season with a collection of players who really hit the “oh yeah that guy, he’s still around” spot.  

Produced by Steve Hankey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did Big Ange's surprisingly high defensive line make sense, can you stick with three-at-the-back and is it actually harder to play against ten men?

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So, as football continues to evolve tactically, how and why did we reach a point where many commentators are now asking: "Where have all the dribblers gone?"

The Athletic's Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme join host Ali Maxwell to explore...

Who are the best/worst dribblers in the Premier League, what even constitutes a 'dribble' and are coaches like Pep Guardiola really responsible for the apparent lack of dribblers today?

Plus, how many of Ronaldo Nazario's 414 goals were scored by dribbling the ball round the goalkeeper?

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Robbie Fowler who ‘peaked’ aged 20, to Fabio Quagliarella who saved his best ’til 35, the panel dissect why players hit their prime at different ages, but ask if the way we classify ‘peak’ needs updating.

Plus, can ones ‘peak’ be predicted, and how is sports science altering the landscape.

Produced by Jay Beale.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A left foot from Messi? As strong as Van Dijk? With Bernardo Silva's brain?

Agree or disagree with our selections? Let us know in the comments.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The best crosser of the ball of all time? How accurate was the documentary? Our panel dissect the free-kicks, assists, goals and tactical roles to find out.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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How often have head-to-head games between the eventual top two Premier League teams decided where the title ended up?

And ahead of Man City's trip to Arsenal on Sunday, a tactical preview of where the game might be won and lost and some squad selection headaches for both managers analysed.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides & Jay Beale

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How is this playing out in the Premier League so far this season, at Spurs after Kane... but also at West Ham after Declan Rice, Crystal Palace after Zaha and Brentford without Toney too?

And can you become overly-reliant on a goalscorer in particular?

The panel also find examples of the phenomenon on the continent and throughout recent history too.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

• Why are Man United so fragile after conceding a goal, and how good was Bayern's Jamal Musiala? - 2:05
• As Arsenal cruised to a 4-0 win over PSV in their return to the competition - was that the perfect preparation for this Sunday's North London Derby... and are they a different proposition when Gabriel Jesus leads the line? - 7:55
• Did AC Milan and Newcastle BOTH think they were the underdogs at San Siro? - 13:05
• Are PSG a better team even if they're less exciting to watch now, having ditched so many of their Galacticos in the summer? - 17:01
• Is Julian Alvarez making Man City fans forget about Kevin de Bruyne? - 20:40
• ... Later in the pod, the panel preview the North London Derby and discuss Michael Cox's article in The Athletic - where he suggests Chelsea are playing better than their results would suggest! - 23:32

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Plus, Nigeria's striker dilemma, Bielsa's Uruguay, and Fernando Diniz's anti-establishment tactics.

Produced by Jay Beale.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The panel reflect on his breakthrough as a left wing-back, the tactical challenges Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta sets for him and the amazing numbers he's already posting, despite having only turned 22 years old this week!

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

***

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As Guardiola, Arteta, Xavi, Pirlo, Motta, Alonso, Amorim and others thrive - what is it about the position that lends itself to coaching and is it the most difficult position to play in a team?

Has it contributed to the current hegemony of football tactics and does it also explain why the price of a good deep-lying midfielder has skyrocketed over the last year.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides & Guy Clarke

***

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How quick, is too quick to try and implement a new tactical system and playing style - especially after losing Harry Kane so late in the window? And what can we learn from an impressive win over Manchester United last weekend?

How does Ange Postecoglu's impact compare to Mikel Arteta's three years ago at Arsenal, is Bissouma good enough to play as a single pivot in midfield and are Spurs' attackers simply lacking confidence?

Plus, with a week to go before the transfer window closes, where might they still need to strengthen, and you'll also hear a snippet from Mark's exclusive interview with their former set-piece coach Gianni Vio.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

***

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When did Newcastle's Sandro Tonali start making those runs into the box, is Richarlison the right profile of striker for Postecoglu's Spurs and is Saka the best right-sided forward in world football right now?

Plus, defenders taking goal kicks, man-to-man trends and more as our panel open their tactical notebooks once again.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

• Will Sheffield Utd have to change system after losing so many players?
• Why Everton are still reliant Dominic Calvert-Lewin's fitness.
• Will Manchester City continue to use ball-to-feet wingers?
• Could a more possession-based style help Nottingham Forest survive again?
• If building from the back will help Chelsea get back to winning ways?
• How will Unai Emery combine Mings and Pau Torres in the Aston Villa defence?
• Where are goals coming from for Wolves this season?
• Can Andoni Iraola give Bournemouth more of an identity?
• How will West Ham reconfigure their midfield after losing Declan Rice?
• Can Eberechi Eze lead Crystal Palace's attack this season?

... And by which metric did Ali decide the running order for the entire preview?!

Produced by Adonis Pratsides & Jay Beale

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part one, the panel debate;

• How quickly the Spurs players can adapt to new manager Ange Postecoglu's principles
• If Brighton can 'evolve' before they're worked out
• Why Brentford can cope without Ivan Toney for the first six months
• What Newcastle will have learnt about Anthony Gordon from his success with Englands U21s
• If Vincent Kompany's Burnley will have to adjust their playing style in the Premier League
• How Arsenal's efforts to become more versatile will help them challenge for the title again
• If Liverpool will still suffer from the same defensive achilles heel
• Why Fulham must improve their record against the 'big teams'
• Why Manchester United have to get better at attacking set-pieces
• And why Luton are going to be a lot of fun to watch

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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In this episode - episode 2 of the series - Jay talks to those responsible for Brentford's famed recruitment strategy to detail how they scout and how they convince players that west London is a place for them to thrive.

To listen to the full series click here.

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It’s called The Daily Football Briefing and will bring you right up to speed with the biggest stories from the night before and what to expect from the day ahead. Missed a big transfer story? David Ornstein will have you covered. What’s the latest about that club’s takeover saga? Matt Slater will have the latest. What’s Lionel Messi getting up to in MLS? Our American experts will know best.

It’s your essential guide to the biggest stories in football - all wrapped up before you’ve finished your first cup of coffee. Follow and subscribe to The Athletic’s Daily Football Briefing for free wherever you get your podcasts so you don’t miss an episode.

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The panel break down the tactical story of a cagey finale in Istanbul, big team selection decisions and the culmination of City's tactical evolution into a truly formidable 'cup side'.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Plus, a look ahead to this weekend’s Champions League final, as Manchester City look to complete the treble vs Inter Milan.

Produced by Jay Beale

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From early warning signs of De Bruyne x Haaland's link up and Arsenal's leaky defence, to Spurs self-destruction, Villa's transformation and Leeds' lack of goals. Plus, an interesting discussion about xG underperformance in strikers who do a lot more than shoot and where the cut-off for parachuting in an interim manager should be.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Forget Saka v Salah as the guys condemn the lack general lack of viable full-back options, wrestle with the data and accidentally unearth the best player in the bottom half of the league.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Man City swept away holders Real Madrid in a crushing 4-0 victory, 5-1 on aggregate, so how did they do it? Were they that incredible, or were Madrid that far below par?

Meanwhile, Inter beat city rivals Milan over two legs to set up a tasty final against Pep Guardiola’s side.

There’s also a section dedicated to imminent new Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino, and how he could set up the Blues next season.

The west Londoners have a huge squad, so who may thrive under the former Spurs boss, and who is unlikely to?

Produced by Mike Stavrou & Jay Beale.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An outstanding defensive record, playing to Lewandowski's strengths, why Pedri and Gavi are not simply Xavi and Iniesta 'mini-clones' & how a prodigious young coach has balanced a squad overhaul, the mantle of being Guardiola's "disciple" and Real Madrid's continued success in Europe. 

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Is he any more creative in central areas and are Liverpool better defensively? Was Trent really having a bad season and will he chase down Ryan Giggs' Premier League assists record? 

Plus, the impact on some of his teammates, if this tactical switch is a 'Plan B' or the blueprint for next season and if Liverpool can sneak into the Top 4. 

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Why the art of defending seems to have lost its appeal, why we're seeing more goals in big games and to what extent the five subs rule, the World Cup, manager sackings and 'mysterious goalkeeper injury-enforced breaks' have contributed.

Plus as Big Sam Allardyce steps in at Leeds, the panel reflect on his title as one of the 'forefathers of football analytics', what he'd be capable of with Thomas Frank's hair and some salient advice for what not to do on a golf course in a thunderstorm.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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How did Pep Guardiola's tactical set-up help them dominate the match? Have Arteta's Arsenal become slightly predictable and is that understandable, considering they are still at a relatively early stage in their own development?

Plus, what exactly is Kevin de Bruyne the 'best in the world' at and is the treble really on for Man City now?

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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The panel reflect on how mounting injury lists for both English teams will affect the balance of the games, how England Euro 2022 star Keira Walsh is adapting to life in Barcelona and discuss the WSL title run-in too.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Plus, why Liam loves Vini Jr, Michael's defence of Lampard's tactics and the pleasure of still being able to watch Giroud doing what he does best.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Why Grealish and Bernardo Silva offer Man City more defensive protection, the Messi 'false 9' falsehood and how he might try to tweak the tactics next.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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What do Ancelotti's Real Madrid and Fergie's Manchester United have in common, what does 'playing well' even mean and why Champions must know how to "suffer".

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

***

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Was Ozil a specific case or has does the game no longer have any room for 'specialists', where else on the pitch have the guys noticed significant change and how have the likes of Romelu Lukaku, Mason Mount, Kieran Tierney and more been affected.

Plus, find out more about 'the last of the sweepers', Salvatore Fresi.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Did his interpretation of the statistics lack context, how does English football compare with other major European footballing nations and is the U21 job as 'utterly impossible' as previous head coaches have suggested?

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Has Roberto de Zerbi actually improved them since Graham Potter was poached by Chelsea and has Brighton's goalscoring form also laid bare Potter's coaching blindspot? How well-suited would De Zerbi be to succeeding Antonio Conte at Spurs?

RDZ's use of wingers such as Mitoma and March, swapping Robert Sanchez for Jason Steele in goal and the revival of the good old' through ball! Plus, completely buying into a data-led recruitment strategy, how easy a model it is for their Premier League rivals to replicate and the '3 things Brighton do better than your favourite team'.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Does head coach Luciano Spalletti get enough credit for continuing to innovate at 64 years old? Is star-striker Victor Osimhen destined for a Premier League move to Manchester United or Chelsea and which of Kvaratskhelia's many nicknames is your favourite?

Plus, does the 'perfect UCL play-style' exist and how to effectively rank all the remaining sides who safely made it through to the Champions League quarter-finals this week.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

***

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The Athletic's tactics team explore the evolution of the manager's position from arranging the team's transportation to setting pressing traps! How much can a Premier League manager impact a team and are we able to actually predict whether a new manager will be a 'good fit' for a particular football club using A.I.?

Plus, the panel embark on some myth-busting involving the 'new manager bounce' and if every manager simply deserves 'more time'.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Has Rashford found his best position and how much credit does Benni McCarthy deserve for his resurgence? What is Mbappe hilariously bad at and does he thrive despite the tactical flaws at PSG? How Rashford has matured as a footballer and why Mbappe to Real Madrid is problematic.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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How long is the optimum tenure of a Premier League manager now, how Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger warped our perceptions of longevity and success, how PL data compares to the other major European leagues and if increased media scrutiny, player power and data analytics has simply made the job more draining!

Produced by Adonis Pratsides and Ben Green

***

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How is the philosophy defined on and off the pitch, what is the make-up of the quintessential 'RB' player, the coaching tree from Ralf Rangnick down and how effective it has been in the Premier League?

Plus, as the high-octane playing style has taken hold across Europe, has it actually made the game more or less watchable, does it lend itself to knockout tournament football and why managers like Jesse Marsch and Ralph Hasenhuttl can't just be plucked from within the multi-club model and expected to flourish.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

***

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The panel discuss best-practice when taking a corner *cough Chelsea*, how to Gabriel Martinelli's form, a quietly impressive display for Spurs' Pape Matar Sarr and why PSG keep making the same old mistakes in Europe.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

***

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Which young goalkeeper has the lowest save percentage, who are the most fouled team, which unlikely Big 6 club needs to 'get it in the mixer' more often and more 'pub ammo' for the PPDA generation!

***

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Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Can we chart his evolution into a more 'complete' player by analysing his shot locations over the years, how many different types of goals can Harry score and at which point (and under which manager) was Kane at his absolute peak?

Plus - if he were to leave Tottenham this summer - which European giant would be the best fit and is he on course for Alan Shearer's Premier League record of 260 goals too?

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Where can Dyche look to instantly improve them, despite a baptism of fire against league-leaders Arsenal and the small matter of a Merseyside derby? What can we learn from the numbers behind his Burnley team and who in this current Everton squad can benefit most from his arrival?

***

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Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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How versatile is he and how well will he adapt to Graham Potter's burgeoning Chelsea team? Plus more on his impressive passing repertoire, whether or not he is the ideal candidate to replace the departed Jorginho and why he's an outlier in more way than one, in terms of British record signings.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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How is performing against his expected goals tally and are there any signs that he'll slow down in the second half of the campaign? Are City better as both an attacking & defensive unit with Haaland in the team and how has his arrival impacted his team-mates - most notably Kevin de Bruyne.

Plus, as Pep Guardiola surpassed 500 top-flight league games in management, how are City 'evolving' once again and how the 22-year-old Haaland is already becoming a more complete footballer under his tutelage.

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The panel delve into the history books to see how many players it really takes to lift the title, how previous winners have acted in the January transfer market, how cup-runs factor into the equation and if versatility trumps sheer quantity?

Plus, how a lack of rotation during Liverpool's 63-game season last year contributed to a downturn in results lately, if Graham Potter simply has too many players at Chelsea and how substitution coaches and five subs rules have changed the game.

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The panel dive into the data to produce a handful of midfielders the club could look to in the transfer market and revisit how good Wijnaldum actually was in Liverpool's title-winning season of 2019/20.

Plus, how and why Klopp's midfield has evolved into a more 'creative' than 'functional' one and if the centre of the pitch is ultimately to blame for a downturn in results this season?

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Are Felix's numbers reliable given the system in which Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid play and are we allowed to completely ignore Weghorst's stint at Burnley last season?

The panel also reflect on Chelsea's wider tactical problems, how Graham Potter succeeded at Brighton and whether Weghorst's arrival simply buys United more time to find a marquee striker this summer?

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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Plus, Kane and Son's role reversal, an over-reliance on Kulusevski for creativity, problems building out from the back, how good their summer transfer window was in hindsight and which January targets could really help this month.

*For more on Spurs why not check out our twice-weekly Tottenham podcast 'The View From The Lane', available wherever you get you podcasts.

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

***

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Amidst all the drama and narrative, how was the game actually won and lost? From Messi's calmness in the big moments, to Di Maria's crowning performance, to Mbappe's ultimately forlorn heroics, our panel pore over the detail and analyse every aspect of this unforgettable occasion.

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Is Griezmann a 'complete' footballer, how Thuram's introduction wrestled control back from Morocco and how 'Scaloni roulette' nullified Croatia's midfield.

Plus, the various selection headaches facing both managers - Di Maria, Rabiot, Konate and more. Will Morocco have any regrets about tweaking their shape for France and will Croatia come again after Luka Modric's last World Cup?

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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What tactical lessons might Morocco learn from England's plan for Kylian Mbappe?

Could Argentina's 'ill-discipline' cost them, and Messi, a place in Sunday's final?

Is Griezmann actually leading the race for the Golden Ball?

And how Croatia have improved since the World Cup final in 2018.

Plus, the proper order for a successful World Cup penalty shoot-out and why big inquests in to Brazil and England's World Cup exits are unnecessary.

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The similarities with both Manchester City and Arsenal, playing two number 10s in an era of none and their philosophical evolution since the 'dark days' of 2010 and 2014. Plus, Casemiro's quality, Raphinha's role as creator-in-chief and if set-pieces are still an Achilles heel?

The panel also discuss what they have in common with fellow quarter-finalists France - and how England should set up against them on Saturday. Why Argentina are such a 'throwback', the 'functional' Netherlands and how much happier everyone in Portugal's attack looked without Ronaldo.

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The panel discuss the strength of England's last-16 opponents Senegal, as well as Argentina's aggression and Messi in a more classic false-9 role. Whether it's actually fair to judge Australia by their low xG numbers and how else to decide between two teams level at the end of the group stage besides fair play!

Ahmed reckons Morocco's Hakim Ziyech is back to his 'Ajax best' and Michael explains why Belgium's golden generation have already won. Plus, Spain's Achilles heel and how Japanese tinkering almost cost them a place in the knockout stages. 

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A distinct lack of shots from distance, the impact of substitute strikers and why any memorable tournament really needs the big favourites to make it out of the group stage. Plus, 'steering wheel' full-back systems, how Brazil are coping without Neymar and Onana's goal kicks!

Produced by Adonis Pratsides

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How did Japan and Saudi Arabia pull off two historic World Cup upsets and how much of it was down to tactical flexibility and ingenuity. Were Spain actually underrated going into the tournament and how are their front 3 functioning even without a more traditional number 9? Plus, France's many ways to hurt the opposition, Kieran Trippier's importance to England, goalless draws, increased injury time and a bit of a Canada love-in too.

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In this episode they cover: Group B (featuring England, Wales and the USA), C (Favourites Argentina), D (Reigning World champions France) and last but not least, Group F (Belgium, Canada and 2018 finalists Croatia).The panel discuss whether England fans are too negative, and why USA supporters have a similarly downbeat view of their own national side.

How far can Canada’s Golden Generation go? And could Canadian striker Jonathan David have an outside chance of scooping the Golden Boot?

Produced by Mike Stavrou

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In this podcast (part 1 of 2) our panel navigate Groups H and E (their own personal favourites) as well as Group G (Brazil's) and Group A (containing Netherlands & Senegal).

Will Cristiano Ronaldo's club drama plague Portugal too, how much can we expect from Uruguay's very old guard and who will shine the brightest from the 'Group of Wonderkids', including Bayern's Jamal Musiala, Barcelona's Pedri and... Sunderland's Jewison Bennette!

Plus, were Cameroon unlucky at AFCON, why Coxy has a soft spot for Netherlands and more.

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How good do you actually have to be to win a World Cup? Is current form actually the best reason to pick a player and how big a role experience plays on the biggest stage of all.

Plus, odd trends involving unlikely stars of the tournament, slow-starters in the group stages, non-goalscoring no.9s, clean sheet records, Didier Deschamps' underrated tactical intelligence and plenty more myth-busting besides.

... Make sure you're subscribed to this feed to ensure you catch our two-part World Cup 2022 preview podcasts next week.

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Are Man City deserving favourites, how Spalletti's super-slick Napoli continue to impress, Milan's interesting age-profile, leaky Dortmund, patchy Liverpool and so much more.

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Precisely what constitutes a set-piece goal, how decision-making has been impacted, are out-swinging or in-swinging corners more effective in the Premier League and who are the best and worst exploiters?

Plus, Megan Campbell, of Liverpool Women, and her extraordinary throw-ins, Ben Tozer's threat in League Two, why Michael has been impressed by Fulham this season and which countries possess the biggest World Cup set-piece threats?

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Plus, how Mane pipped Salah in the standings, Mbappe the provider, if Courtois had a point, which of the Kopa finalists have the highest ceiling and why Alexia Putellas shouldn't have won the Women's award for a second successive year.

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Should Klopp start Nunez and is there more to his game than just being a big no.9? How can that porous Liverpool defence stop the likes of Foden, Silva, De Bruyne and of course Haaland from exploiting the space in behind? Is there any way Klopp can play a front four again and try to press the life out of Man City? An intriguing clash awaits and we dig down into the tactics and the data to see how it might play out.

Plus there's also a look at the resurgence of no.9s playing for the Premier League's big six clubs - the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Harry Kane, Aubameyang, plus Nunez and Haaland. What impact have they made this season and why have clubs reverted to a focus on proper central strikers?

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Plus, a fascinating discussion about whether or not footballers actually have 'natural' positions, why 'all-rounders' are so sought after in the modern game, if a key metric for measuring football IQ actually exists, as well as, some of our favourite examples of players who changed position in history and who our panel think should be next.

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The panel discuss Arsenal's progress since the arrival of players like Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko and why Conte might elect to start an attacking trio of Kane, Son and Richarlison, despite Kulusevski's impact. Plus, why set pieces have become a massive strength for both teams, how Xhaka's redemption story is going, Kane's suffering for club and country and much more.

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We look at De Zerbi's journey from the very bottom of Italian football in Serie D right up to his recent successes in Serie A with Sassuolo and his time at Shakhtar Donetsk.

Known for a strong commitment to possession football, we assess which members of this Brighton team will most benefit from his arrival and how his particular style will fit into the Premier League.

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While its effect on recruitment has been undeniable, the group discuss if data has actually impacted matters on the pitch. High-defensive lines, VAR, tactical fouls, crossing, goal-kicks and more all under the microscope as the search for a key metric for winning football matches continues...

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Keira talks with fascinating depth and insight about:

• Sarina Wiegman's tactical plans for Germany
• Her technique and early Barcelona influences
• Her relationship with teammates like Georgia Stanway, Leah Williamson & Alessia Russo
• The nuances of being a deep-lying playmaker and inspiring the next generation to play in midfield
• The emotions of that historic Wembley final & more.

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Is Harry Kane actually the most Messi-eque player besides Leo himself? What do Ruben Dias and Fabio Cannavaro have in common? And what position would Luis Figo actually play today?

Plus: immediate reaction to Thomas Tuchel's sacking at Chelsea.

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Do the best teams, also run the most in the Premier League and is there better data to show 'hard work'. What is the Robert Huth Theory and why Paolo Maldini and Jamie Vardy might both have had something to say to TV pundits in the wake of Brentford 'out-running' Manchester United earlier this month!

Plus, do centre-mids cover more ground than wing-backs, is the Premier League actually the most physically demanding in Europe and how have those demands changed over the last decade or so?

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Has Liverpool's high-line been exposed one too many times and why Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez can't play next to each other. Wolves are finally shooting-on-site but should they actually shoot less, why Everton are crying out for new signings and why both Leicester and West Ham are victims of their own success.

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Plus, how the Haaland v Nunez debate is shaping up after just two weeks, if the deepening crisis at Old Trafford is showing any signs of letting up, Brighton's most unlikely wing-backs and if a free-kick is suitable punishment for tactical fouling?

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The panel reflect on the long-ball's 'glory years' and debate whether it will ever make a return to the Premier League in the future? 

Then, John reveals how he developed 18 new player roles, using data to better understand what role box crasher Phil Foden, Progressor Joao Cancel or Unlocker Mason Mount really play in their respective teams.

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How will Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic follow up his record-breaking 43-goal season in the top flight and fill the void left by Fabio Carvalho? 

Can Scott Parker's Bournemouth afford to shift to a back-three without defensive reinforcements, plus, Billing 'the unicorn' and Lloyd Kelly for England (too soon?)

And despite not being promoted automatically, is Forest's style actually the most conducive to starving off relegation in their first season back in the big time?

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Who's been the player of the tournament regardless of what happens in Sunday's finale, what are Germany's strengths besides Alexandra Popp, how should we reflect on France's tournament and why Michael has totally given up any hope of Alessia Russo starting the match.

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Plus, the panel discuss why the current xG model may not be fit for Women's football, why Belgium have paid the price for not investing in the women's game, why Arsenal's Stina Blackstenius is due a goal, how the French lifted their QF Euros curse and more.

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Plus, a review of some of the standout performers of the tournament so far, how Germany have impressed, why Norway fell short, if Miedema can shock an unconvincing French defence and if you can pick a 'dark horse' this deep into the competition!

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Plus, the panel look at the rest of the tournament so far with an eye on whether France's performance in thrashing Italy 5-1 still keeps them as the team to beat, and there's analysis of Holland's 1-1 draw with Sweden

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Plus, the panel assess England's major threats; whether Group B can actually be described as a 'Group of Death', if Sweden will finally get over the line in a major tournament, if Spain can adapt to missing Alexia Putellas & Jenni Hermoso, Marie-Antoinette Katoto's unbelievable numbers and Viv Miedema's legend.

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Plus, why Ancelotti could deploy Camavinga from the start, Trent Alexander-Arnold vs Vinicius Jr and a mind-blowing statistic about Spanish teams in European finals.

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Is Thomas Frank the best pound-for-pound boss (literally ££), should Eddie Howe even be eligible and has David Moyes become a victim of his recent success? Plus, whether or not it's still too soon to judge Vieira at Palace, if Klopp's incredible cup runs count, does a 'new manager bounce' actually exist and what the numbers can tell us about Antonio Conte and Mikel Arteta's respective progress.

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Plus, why Tuchel has failed to find 'balance' in the final third, why Salah has struggled against Rudiger in previous meetings and why Chelsea will have paid close attention to the way Conte's Spurs frustrated Liverpool last weekend.

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Sounds great... but should he have won more? The panel explore the common tactical themes of his title-winning teams, why Michael thought his fourth title would be his last, how he is perceived by supporters and big players and ultimately, whether he should have won a lot more!

Plus, an all-time Carlo XI to die for.

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The Athletic's Michael Cox and Mark Carey join host Ali Maxwell to try and work out whether it's possible to accurately measure the true value of a goal, and try to find out which players score the most valuable goals.

Taking our lead from Mark's recent piece on the subject, we delve into the data to look at the likes of Didier Drogba, Christian Benteke, Richarlison and Christian Eriksen as we attempt to work out why certain players appear more capable of delivering in the big moments than other more renowned goalscorers.

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Why Zack Steffen's FA Cup semi-final-freeze was predictable, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joao Cancelo's impact in the 2-2 draw at the Etihad. Plus, Jesus over Mahrez, Keita or Henderson and whether it's too soon to write this off as the greatest rivalry in English football history?

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The panel analyse the tactical system employed by Ajax in the Champions League and why he wouldn't necessarily be able to just copy and paste at Old Trafford. Plus, wingers doubling up on the same flank, left-footed vacancies in the current squad, whether they will finally sign a defensive midfielder and what his arrival could mean for likes of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Harry Maguire and Cristiano Ronaldo.

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Why James Ward-Prowse is an even better free-kick taker than you already thought, whether or not you actually need a wall, plus, Watford's unwanted record and the ambidextrous exploits of Salernitana's Simone Verdi.

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Plus, the trio celebrate Pique's long-passing, Busquets longevity and the shift in the physical profile of their newest signings.

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The trio assess the notorious xG underperformance, the bold response to going behind in games, the admiration from the likes of Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp, as well as, why not all Brighton fans are quite so enamoured by him.

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Plus, how Odegaard has helped unlock their attacking potential, being less reliant on Kieran Tierney's relentless crossing, how to replace Lacazette and if Ben White should go to the World Cup?

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Then in part two, building on the recent revelations made by The Athletic's Dan Sheldon over Southampton's 'manufactured' stoppages; How important is the rhythm of a Premier League match and how might some minor rule tweaks better impact the game.

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Have West Ham officially run out of steam and are Arsenal the favourites for the last Champion's League spot? Plus, why Everton, Crystal Palace and Brentford should be looking nervously towards the relegation places.

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Plus, which Premier League teams are both the best and the worst in transition and which style is best=suited to Rangnick's Manchester United.

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Our weekly tactics podcast will be available from Thursday morning.

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How the league's best created 'receiving value' over the course of the 2020/21 Premier League season, what Liverpool's front-three stats can tell us about Trent Alexander-Arnold's passing and how advanced analytics at a Belgian University can help us to better understand a target man's true value.

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