Michael Calvin's Football People

Joe Cole - An English double in Europe?

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 11:57:28 GMT

Joe Cole joins Michael Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Miguel Delaney to discuss the Conference League and Champions League finals. They pay tribute to the tactical diversity of modern Italian teams, but foresee redemption for West Ham's David Moyes, and a milestone achievement by Pep Guardiola at Manchester City,

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Christian Eriksen - Football as Art

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 05:00:43 GMT

Manchester United's Christian Eriksen joins Michael Calvin to look forward to the FA Cup final, and to give an insight into his instinctive approach to the game. Seb Stafford Bloor and Tony Hodson dwell on the implications of Manchester City's dominance, assess their natural challengers, and discuss the bouncebackability of this season's relegated clubs.

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Roy Hodgson - Lessons of a Lifetime

Wed, 24 May 2023 11:50:53 GMT

On the eve of perhaps the last game in a 47 year career, Roy Hodgson, at 75, offers Michael Calvin a masterclass in management and coaching. His impact on club and country is assessed by Paul Hayward and Dominic Fifield, who also discuss relegation, elite football's lack of romanticism, and the need for a militant approach to racial abuse.

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Marco Silva - The Coming Man

Fri, 19 May 2023 11:45:36 GMT

Marco Silva, shortlisted for the Premier League Manager of the year award joins Michael Calvin to discuss his influences, achievements, and trademark intensity. John Cross and Miguel Delaney praise his maturity at Fulham, and take an all-encompassing look at the challenges facing modern football, in the light of Manchester City's domination.

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Michail Antonio - Don't Crumble

Thu, 11 May 2023 04:30:37 GMT

West Ham striker highlights the importance of winning a European trophy, and looks to the past and the future with Michael Calvin.. Paul Hayward and David Preece dwell on the lessons of his career, the significance of Manchester City's Champions League return leg against Real Madrid, and a rapidly developing race to avoid relegation.

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Steve Cooper - Summoning the Spirit of Clough

Thu, 04 May 2023 05:00:35 GMT

Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper gives Michael Calvin an insight into the principles and pressures involved in the attempt to stay in the Premier League. Jonathan Northcroft and Tony Hodson praise his approach, and assess Forest's relegation rivals before dwelling on the problems faced by Frank Lampard and Jurgen Klopp.

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Patrick Bamford - Marching On Together

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 11:00:22 GMT

Leeds striker Patrick Bamford gives Michael Calvin a timely insight into the strains of the scramble to avoid relegation. Lucy Ward and Adrian Clarke assess their chances of survival, and reach an identical conclusion : Manchester City will be Premier League champions for the third successive season.

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Tyrone Mings - The Emery Effect

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 10:09:45 GMT

Aston Villa defender Tyrone Mings joins Michael Calvin to discuss the impact of Unai Emery's coaching, and his rise from Academy reject to England international. John Cross and Richard Amofa assess Villa's chances of European qualification, look forward to the FA Cup semi finals, and suggest Arsenal will fail to prevent Manchester City winning a treble.

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Erik Ten Hag - Rebuilding Manchester United

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 13:57:17 GMT

With a treble still possible, Erik Ten Hag gives Michael Calvin an insight into the influences and philosophy shaping a successful first season as Manchester United manager. Jonathan Northcroft and David Preece assess his impact in the context of the unique threat represented by Manchester City, who will never have a better chance to win the Champions League.

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Sean Dyche - Survive And Thrive

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 16:24:52 GMT

Everton manager Sean Dyche joins Michael Calvin to discuss the specifics of Premier League survival. Miguel Delaney and Dominic Fifield endorse his qualities, as they examine the nine team struggle to avoid relegation.

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Paul Barber - Keeping the Dream Alive

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Michael Calvin discusses the principles of football leadership, and Brighton's elevation from near-extinction with the club's chief executive, Paul Barber. They are joined by Paul Hayward and Tony Hodson, who examine the race for a top four place in the light of Tottenham's implosion.

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Chris Wilder - The Fireman Manager

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 06:00:24 GMT

Chris Wilder joins Michael Calvin to discuss the role of Firemen managers, a role undertaken by him at Watford and by Roy Hodgson at Crystal Palace. Adrian Clarke and David Preece discuss the pressures and practicalities of the job, which reflects the increasing financial importance of promotion to, and survival in, the Premier League.

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James Milner - Manager in the Making

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 12:54:06 GMT

James Milner discusses the pros and cons of a coaching career with Michael Calvin, as Liverpool face a summer of change. They're joined by Miguel Delaney and Dominic Fifield, who look forward to the quarter final draw in the Champions League, assess the last eight in the FA Cup, and criticise a bloated 2026 World Cup.

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Marvin Sordell - Football's Fragile Mental Health

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 13:21:32 GMT

With pressure on managers and players reaching unprecedented levels, campaigner Marvin Sordell joins Michael Calvin to discuss football's approach to mental health. Anne Marie Batson and Adrian Clarke offer their views, and also consider the fallout from the Champions League for Chelsea, Spurs and PSG.

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Emi Martinez - Touching the Sky

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 06:00:13 GMT

World Cup winner Emi Martinez gives Michael Calvin a unique insight into the mentality that has made him, in the eyes of FIFA, the world's best goalkeeper. Goalkeeping coach David Preece and Richard Amofa assess his impact, and address a range of domestic issues, including the rise and rise of Manchester United under Erik Ten Hag.

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Unai Emery - Pride, Passion, And Purpose

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 07:00:49 GMT

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery gives Michael Calvin a fascinating insight into why the Basque region is producing so many influential coaches. John Cross and Tony Hodson assess his impact, and look at the background to Sunday's League Cup final between Newcastle and Manchester United.

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David Moyes - 25 years and counting

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 13:17:45 GMT

No current manager has been in charge of more Premier League games than David Moyes. He shares his unrivalled experience with Michael Calvin, Paul Hayward and Jonathan Northcroft in an episode that touches on Manchester City's title challenge, Liverpool's chance for renewal in the Champions League, and the need to address the increasingly obvious flaws of the VAR system.

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Martin O'Neill - A Life in Football

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 06:00:11 GMT

Michael Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Dominic Fifield discuss football's future, in the light of the charges laid against Manchester City. The return of the Champions League highlights the achievements of this week's guest Martin O'Neill, who won the European Cup with Nottingham Forest in successive seasons under Brian Clough before embarking on a stellar managerial career.

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Aaron Ramsdale - The Art of Goalkeeping

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 06:00:15 GMT

Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale joins Michael Calvin to discuss Mikel Arteta's empathetic management, his rivalry with Jordan Pickford, and daring to dream of a Premier League title. Goalkeeping coach David Preece and former Arsenal player Adrian Clarke add their expert opinion on a range of current issues.

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Jurgen Klopp - Life Lessons at Liverpool

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 06:00:40 GMT

Jurgen Klopp gives Michael Calvin an insight into the demands of modern football, and discusses the next phase of his management of Liverpool. Miguel Delaney and Tony Hodson offer their views on a potential rebuild, and compare Klopp with another recent guest on the Football People Podcast, Pep Guardiola.

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Pep Guardiola - The Man Behind the Manager

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 06:00:45 GMT

Pep Guardiola gives Michael Calvin an intriguing insight into his personal and professional philosophies in the latest Football People Podcast. Paul Hayward and Jonathan Northcroft discuss his relationship with Mikel Arteta, the characteristics of great coaches, and the intensifying pressure on managers at the wrong end of the Premier League table.

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Graham Potter - Football is Like Life

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Graham Potter opens up on the pressures of managing Chelsea when he joins Michael Calvin on the latest Football People podcast. Dominic Fifield and Anne Marie Batson agree that he should be given time to build a new team. The panel also focuses on the Manchester and North London derbies.

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End Of Year Review

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 06:00:11 GMT

Michael Calvin is joined by David Preece, Miguel Delaney and Adrian Clarke on a special edition of the Football People podcast. They reflect on the World Cup, and assess the season so far, with contributions from Mikel Arteta, Emma Hayes, Graham Potter, David Weir, Frank Lampard, Jamie Vardy, Brendan Rodgers, Patrick Vieira and Professor Simon Chadwick.

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Professor Simon Chadwick - An Era-Defining World Cup

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 14:04:51 GMT

Michael Calvin is joined on the Football People podcast by Professor Simon Chadwick, who outlines the game's future in the context of a hugely significant World Cup in Qatar. Paul Hayward and Dominic Fifield analyse his observations, and discuss the chances of Lionel Messi confirming his greatness in Sunday's final against France.

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David Weir - Searching for Football's Raw Diamonds

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 13:20:09 GMT

David Weir, Brighton's technical director, joins Michael Calvin to discuss the global search for football talent, in the context of the first Arab World Cup. Tony Hodson and Richard Amofa provide additional insight, previewing the quarter finals. Do you agree with the panel's predictions for the last four?

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Tom Young - Southgate's Winning Mindset

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 14:24:34 GMT

With England preparing to face Senegal in the knockout stages in Qatar, leading sports psychologist Tom Young joins Michael Calvin on the latest Football People podcast. Paul Hayward and Jonathan Northcroft concur with Young's positive assessment of Gareth Southgate's management, and name England among four teams who could win this World Cup.

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Luke Williams - How the Other Half Live

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 06:00:04 GMT

Notts County attracted a sell out 16,500 crowd last weekend. Luke Williams, their head coach, joins Michael Calvin, David Preece and Adrian Clarke on the latest Football People podcast. They discuss County's analytical approach, FIFA's political power plays, Manchester United's sale and England and Wales' next games in Qatar.not

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Glenn Hoddle - World Cup Preview

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 06:00:15 GMT

Glenn Hoddle shares World Cup memories, as a fan, player and manager, with Michael Calvin in the latest edition of the Football People podcast. Jonathan Northcroft, in Qatar, and Tony Hodson agree with Glenn's prediction that Brazil will win, and also examine the controversy swirling around the tournament.

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Owen Hargreaves - The Inside Track

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 06:00:07 GMT

Owen Hargreaves joins Michael Calvin to discuss the mentality of England's Golden Generation, the breeding ground of the Bundesliga, and the prospects of Gareth Southgate's squad in Qatar. John Cross and Dominic Fifield add their insight into a controversial World Cup, and examine the implications of Liverpool being up for sale.

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Jamie Vardy - Never Give Up

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 06:00:49 GMT

Jamie Vardy, released at 16, Premier League record breaker at 35, shares the secrets of his career with Michael Calvin in the latest Football People podcast. Ex-pros Adrian Clarke and David Preece assess his impact, and look forward to the knockout stages of the Champions League.

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Patrick Vieira - Taking it to the Streets

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 05:00:13 GMT

Crystal Palace manager Patrick Viera talks to Michael Calvin on the latest Football People podcast about the potential of the South London talent pool, and a new generation of street footballers. Miguel Delaney and Richard Amofa outline the value of his empathetic approach, and look at Unai Emery's replacement of Steven Gerrard at Aston Villa.

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Brendan Rodgers - Managing Under Pressure

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 05:00:35 GMT

Brendan Rodgers tells Michael Calvin how he deals with the constant pressure of people calling for him to be sacked at Leicester. Paul Hayward and David Preece join them in the latest edition of the Football People podcast to discuss intensity of expectation, and the way managers are sacrificed in the modern game.

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Frank Lampard - Regret, Reflection & Renewal

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 05:00:46 GMT

Everton manager Frank Lampard joins Michael Calvin on the latest Football People podcast, to reflect on the lessons of his career. Jonathan Northcroft and Dominic Fifield assess his impact on Merseyside, and the implications of Newcastle applying new-found financial and political muscle.

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Mikel Arteta - Rebuilding Arsenal in His Own Image

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 05:00:51 GMT

Mikel Arteta gives Michael Calvin a unique insight into his managerial style and philosophy in the latest Football People podcast. The Arsenal boss is praised by John Cross and Seb Stafford Bloor, who also dwell on Manchester City's potential dominance, and Liverpool's struggle to sustain their challenge.

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Liam Manning - Education of a Coach

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 05:00:03 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Adrian Clarke and Tony Hodson to discuss the North London derby, Manchester City's dominance, and the coaching styles of Mikel Arteta, Antonio Conte, Roberto di Zerbi and Graham Potter. One of the game's brightest young managers, Liam Manning of MK Dons, is Mike's guest on the latest edition of the Football People podcast.

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Joey Barton - The strains and sacrifices of football management

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 05:00:26 GMT

Mike Calvin, Lucy Ward and David Preece dwell on the pressure of management in the latest edition of the Football People podcast. They respond to an in-depth conversation with Joey Barton, which touches on the strains of living away from home in a notoriously insecure profession.

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Professor Simon Chadwick - Football Will Never Be The Same Again

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 12:36:13 GMT

Michael Calvin gets a dispiriting glimpse into football's future from Professor Simon Chadwick, his latest guest on the Football People podcast. In addition to reviewing the Champions League, Miguel Delaney and Seb Stafford Bloor discuss the growing influence of Gulf states and the business principles of US investors on the global game.

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Andy Holt - Rich Men, Poor Men

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 11:16:42 GMT

Michael Calvin is joined by John Cross and Anne Marie Batson to discuss the fallout from the sacking of Thomas Tuchel, and Chelsea's move to replace him with Graham Potter. Michael finds an instructive contrast in the approach of Accrington Stanley owner Andy Holt, his special guest on the latest edition of the Football People podcast.

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Stuart Webber - Striking Out for the Summit

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 05:00:20 GMT

Michael Calvin is joined by Stuart Webber, Norwich's Sporting Director, who is preparing to climb Mount Everest. He talks about the "blessing and the curse" of being a yo-yo club, and his vision for the future of the game in general. Paul Hayward and Richard Amofa discuss the influence of Sporting Directors, and also analyse the winners and losers in the summer transfer window.

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Alan Redmond - The global search for young talent

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 05:00:16 GMT

Michael Calvin is joined by Alan Redmond, Global Head of Football for Roc Nation, to discuss the transfer market, and the global search for the best young footballers. Jonathan Northcroft and Dominic Fifield also appear in the latest Football People podcast, casting their expert eyes on potential winners and losers in the last week of the summer window.

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Graham Potter - Money isn't everything

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 05:00:12 GMT

Michael Calvin is joined by Graham Potter for a fascinating, far-reaching interview in the latest episode of the Football People Podcast. David Preece and Tony Hodson discuss his impact at Brighton, and the work of a range of coaches, from Antonio Conte to Eddie Howe and Erik Ten Hag.

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Sean Dyche - Never Stop Learning

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 05:00:09 GMT

Michael Calvin, Lucy Ward and Seb Stafford-Bloor regard Manchester United as an object lesson in how not to run a football club, and contrast their approach with the clarity and innovation of Brighton and Brentford. The feature interview in this, the second episode of Michael Calvin's Football People, involves Sean Dyche talking about making the most of unemployment.

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Emma Hayes - Time for Change

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 05:00:37 GMT

The first edition of Michael Calvin's Football People features leading sportswriters Paul Hayward and Miguel Delaney, on the scramble to keep up with Manchester City and Liverpool in a unique Premier League season. Emma Hayes is hailed for her wisdom, and talks about the need to revolutionise the women's game.

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Michael Calvin's Football People Trailer

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 11:00:00 GMT

Michael Calvin’s Football People will retain the best features from the Football Writers Podcast, but take it closer to the heart of the game. Mike will still be hosting the best journalists, discussing the biggest issues. The tone won’t change. Informed, insightful, intelligent rather than inane. We'll also feature extended interviews with managers, coaches, players, support staff, club owners, scouts, & agents.

First episode out on Thursday 4th August!

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What challenges must football confront, to secure its future?

Mon, 30 May 2022 14:37:54 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Paul Hayward examine the chaos surrounding Liverpool's failure to win the Champions League. They consider the implications of Manchester City's dominance, from Under16 level upwards, and map out the evolution of Jurgen Klopp's next great team. They also look outside the top two, to name their alternative winners and losers of a significant season.

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Will Liverpool win the Champions League for the seventh time in Paris on Saturday night?

Thu, 26 May 2022 14:21:47 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Seb Stafford Bloor take an in-depth look at the Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid. They assess the managerial battle between Jurgen Klopp and Carlo Ancelotti, the tactical contest between two experienced teams, and outline the ways Liverpool could win, or indeed lose, the final.

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Was this the best of Manchester City's six title wins in the last decade?

Mon, 23 May 2022 15:15:59 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dominic Fifield and Richard Amofa assess an unforgettable final day, and Manchester City's dominance of the Premier League over the last ten years. A treble for Liverpool, culminating in Saturday's Champions League final, would be appropriate compensation. Antonio Conte has galvanised Spurs, but Burnley's future is bleak following their relegation.

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Will the season's most unlikely dream, Rangers winning their first European title for fifty years, come true?

Wed, 18 May 2022 05:00:44 GMT

Mike Calvin, Patrick Barclay and Tony Hodson preview the final of the Europa League, a competition that has come of age. They recognise the youthful talent fuelling confidence in Eintracht Frankfurt's approach, but believed a combination of astute coaching, big game players and passionate support will lead to Rangers winning their first European trophy since the Cup Winners Cup in 1972.

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Is Steven Gerrard fated to help Liverpool win the Premier League?

Mon, 16 May 2022 15:35:49 GMT

Mike Calvin, Patrick Barclay and Tony Hodson consider the prospect of Steven Gerrard's Aston Villa preventing Manchester City from winning their fourth Premier League title in five seasons. They dwell on the lessons of brain training, hail Jordan Henderson as one of the great leaders of the modern game, and wonder whether VAR will influence the battle against relegation.

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Can Chelsea end an era by winning the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday?

Thu, 12 May 2022 05:00:22 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Seb Stafford Bloor take an in depth look at Saturday's FA Cup final. Chelsea, a club defined by trophy-winning, have their season, and most probably their short term future on the line at Wembley. Thomas Tuchel, like his squad, is at a crossroads. Liverpool, meanwhile, are ready to produce another signature performance on a big occasion.

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Are Manchester City a week away from clinching their fourth Premier League title in five seasons?

Mon, 09 May 2022 14:44:05 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Seb Stafford Bloor believe Manchester City will consolidate their advantage in the Premier League title race, and caution against reading too much into the Steven Gerrard factor when Liverpool visit Aston Villa on Tuesday. Thomas Frank is mentioned as a potential manager of the season : his Brentford side may well send Leeds United down on the final day of the season.

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Will Manchester City end the season without a trophy?

Fri, 06 May 2022 14:29:22 GMT

Mike Calvin, Glenn Moore and Jordan Jarrett Bryan discuss whether Manchester City can recover from Champions League disappointment, and prevent Liverpool winning the Premier League title. They fear for Leeds in the relegation battle, but hail Rangers for reaching the Europa League final.

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Is the curse of the Champions League about to strike Manchester City again?

Mon, 02 May 2022 05:00:50 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward and Adrian Clarke assess this week's European semi finals, They fear for Manchester City in the Bernabeu, and though Villareal are likely to lose to Liverpool, they deserve greater respect. The atmosphere generated at both Europa League ties, at Ibrox and at Eintracht Frankfurt, will be a revealing test of nerve.

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Will Jurgen Klopp build a dynasty at Liverpool?

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 13:46:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward and Adrian Clarke assess the immediate and the long term impact of Jurgen Klopp's decision to sign a new contract at Liverpool. They also analyse the Premier League relegation battle. Survival is in Burnley's DNA and although Leeds might struggle to get the win they need, Everton are in real trouble.

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Is history beckoning Liverpool?

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 14:11:55 GMT

Mike Calvin, Patrick Barclay and Tony Hodson envisage Liverpool and Manchester City ending a season for the ages in the Champions League final. A historic quadruple for Liverpool cannot be ruled out. The Europa League could be a farewell present to West Ham from Declan Rice, and Jose Mourinho's return to England is unlikely to go well at Leicester.

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Is perfection the new normal in the Premier League title race?

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 14:42:49 GMT

Mike Calvin, Glenn Moore and Seb Stafford Bloor struggle to see Liverpool and Manchester City dropping points in the Premier League run in. They examine the rebuild facing Manchester United, and their new manager Erik Ten Hag, and also consider the merits of a play off system.

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Can Manchester City summon the resilience to knock Liverpool out of the FA Cup?

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 14:04:16 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward and Adrian Clarke analyse the second instalment of the saga involving Manchester City and Liverpool, looking at the lingering impact of their midweek exertions. They are divided on whether Chelsea, whose defence of the Champions League ended in Madrid, should have allowed Connor Gallagher to play against them in their FA Cup semi final on Sunday.

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Is it Advantage Liverpool in Europe?

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 14:32:09 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Richard Amofa reflect on the intensity of the rivalry between Manchester City and Liverpool, and how that might impact the midweek ties in the Champions League. They suggest Chelsea's defence will end in the Bernabeu, hail Leicester's Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall as one of the finds of the season, and believe Burnley's fate might have been sealed by their defeat at Norwich.

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Who will win Sunday's showdown, Manchester City or Liverpool?

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 13:43:57 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Dominic Fifield analyse all aspects of Liverpool's visit to Manchester City on Sunday, but cannot agree on the result, and its consequences in the Premier League title race. They discuss increasing elitism, dismiss UEFA's latest reform of the Champions League, and set a 35 point target to avoid relegation to the Championship.

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Is a successful defence of the Champions League beyond Chelsea?

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 15:19:09 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Tony Hodson cast doubts on Chelsea's ability to repeat last season's success in the Champions League. They foresee problems for Manchester City against Atletico Madrid, but suspect Liverpool will have their semi-final place secured by the end of Tuesday's first leg against Benfica in Lisbon. They also ask why Declan Rice would join Manchester United, when the club is in such turmoil.

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Is it time to give Harry Maguire the support he deserves?

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 13:35:19 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne Marie Batson and Adrian Clarke review Manchester United's issues, including the abuse of Harry Maguire, the form of Marcus Rashford, the appointment of a new manager and the need for a rebuild. They believe Jude Bellingham would turn Liverpool into a Hall of Fame team, and that Harry Kane would benefit from the resurrection of his proposed move to Manchester City. Everton's relegation worries, a defining day for women's football and the future of Gareth Bale are also on the agenda.

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Who will blink first, Liverpool or Manchester City?

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 15:34:51 GMT

Mike Calvin, Glenn Moore and Jordan Jarrett Bryan discuss the relative merits of Liverpool and Manchester City, who are going for a quadruple and a treble respectively. Chelsea still seem capable of retaining the Champions League and Patrick Vieira is seen as a credible manager of the season candidate.

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Are Liverpool the team to beat in the Champions League?

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 16:06:13 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dominic Fifield and Miguel Delaney analyse the quarter final draw for the Champions League. Liverpool face outsiders Benfica, Carlo Ancelotti returns to Chelsea with Real Madrid, and Diego Simeone will attempt to get inside Pep Guardiola's head. The panel see West Ham as credible contenders in the Europa League, and also preview the FA Cup quarter finals.

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Is a European Super League still on the agenda?

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 15:38:21 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Paul Hayward discuss another turbulent weekend for football, and suggest the idea of a breakaway Super League has never really gone away. They believe Chelsea will progress to the quarter finals of the Champions League, and suspect Atletico Madrid's Ronaldo complex will tip Tuesday's tie at Old Trafford in Manchester United's favour. They also speak from the heart about what football means to them.

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Is the Chelsea crisis a game changer for football?

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 16:13:28 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Patrick Barclay discuss the possibility of fundamental change in the wake of Chelsea's problems. Fan ownership, and an independent regulator, would be beneficial. Newcastle's visit to Stamford Bridge will be hugely symbolic, but the games of the weekend will be at Brighton, who face Liverpool, and at Leeds, who are in desperate need of a win against Norwich.

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Are Manchester City and Liverpool delivering the best season in Premier League history?

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 15:03:27 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dominic Fifield and Adrian Clarke assess the balance of power between Manchester City and Liverpool, Premier League title rivals who should comfortably qualify for the Champions League quarter finals this week. They praise Thomas Tuchel for his dignity, sympathise with Ralf Rangnick's lack of authority, and suggest Arsenal may eventually win things with kids.

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As the Abramovich era ends, what does the future hold for Chelsea?

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 13:52:25 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Richard Amofa assess the fallout from Roman Abramovich's decision to sell Chelsea after nineteen consistently successful years. They highlight the gulf between Manchester City and Manchester United, suggest it is not too early to talk up Liverpool's chances of winning the quadruple, and feel Arsenal are 18 months away from being contenders.

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With England refusing to play Russia, is football on the verge of regime change?

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 15:51:21 GMT

Mike Calvin, Faye Carruthers and Glenn Moore analyse a tumultuous weekend for world football, and refuse to rule out the possibility of a boycott of the World Cup finals in Qatar. They celebrate the escapism of Liverpool's League Cup final win, mourn the departure of Marcelo Bielsa from Leeds, and look forward to the midweek FA Cup ties.

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With UEFA moving the Champions League final from St Petersburg to Paris, do sporting sanctions work?

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 14:49:19 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Tony Hodson widen the debate about UEFA's decision to move the Champions League final, and their insistence that Russian and Ukrainian teams play at neutral venues. The panel previews Sunday's League Cup final, and assess Saturday's BT Sport game at Elland Road, where Leeds and Spurs, together with their respective managers, are at a crossroads.

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Can Manchester United win the Champions League?

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 14:52:56 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and John Cross discuss the Champions League challenges faced by Manchester United and Chelsea this week. They foresee Cristiano Ronaldo and Romelu Lukaku leaving their respective clubs in the summer, and focus on the revival of the Premier League title race.

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Will Antonio Conte have the patience to see through the job at Tottenham?

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 14:32:50 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Anne Marie Batson question whether a high maintenance, high performance manager like Antonio Conte has a long term future at Spurs. They assess Tottenham's rivals for the final Champions League qualifying spot, Manchester United, Wolves, Arsenal and West Ham, for whom Jarrod Bowen is an unsung star of the season.

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Are Manchester City and Liverpool the two best teams in Europe?

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 15:27:50 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dominic Fifield and Tony Hodson assess the last 16 of the Champions League, and name their eventual winners. Chelsea's status as world champions underlines their potential in Cup competition, while Manchester United's recurring problems suggest they will struggle in Europe.

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Is Frank Lampard facing the greatest challenge of his managerial career?

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 15:07:18 GMT

Mike Calvin, Faye Carruthers and Glenn Moore use the challenges facing Frank Lampard and Marcelo Bielsa, who are in opposition on Saturday, to highlight the pressures of football management, which may force Southampton's Ralph Hassenhutl to retire at the end of his current contract. They focus on relegation issues, hail the seamless Liverpool debut of Luis Diaz, and consider football's moral responsibilities in the light of the Kurt Zouma controversy.

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Do Newcastle United have the quality to survive?

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 16:00:54 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward and Miguel Delaney discuss Newcastle's chances of avoiding relegation, and react to the breaking news that Dan Ashworth has resigned from Brighton to join them as Director of Football. They preview another key set of fixtures at the bottom of the Premier League, praise Crystal Palace for their generosity of spirit, and suggest Chelsea's trip to the World Club Cup is another vision of football's future.

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Who are the winners and losers from the transfer window?

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 16:24:49 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Seb Stafford Bloor believe Arsenal Spurs and West Ham missed a huge opportunity in the January transfer window. Newcastle's recruitment was flawed, but gives them a good chance of avoiding relegation. Aaron Ramsey's move to Rangers was a surprise, but Christian Eriksen at Brentford is the feelgood story football needs.

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Is Frank Lampard the right choice for Everton?

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 15:10:35 GMT

Mike Calvin, Glenn Moore and Adrian Clarke see Roy Hodgson as a no-risk option for Watford, but fear the consequences of Everton's chaotic search for a new manager. They assess the state of the transfer market, regard the exploitation of Newcastle's needs as inevitable, and name their players with most to gain from a move in the January window.

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Is the Premier League in danger of becoming a closed shop?

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 15:38:51 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Seb Stafford Bloor assess the significance of Watford's widely-anticipated search for their third manager of the season. Everton, Leeds and Brentford could be dragged into the relegation battle, but parachute payments distort the system by assisting a rapid return. Five clubs are competing for the final Champions League place, but the top three are seemingly set.

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Are Liverpool at a crossroads?

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 15:33:30 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward and Richard Amofa highlight Jurgen Klopp's sustained commitment as the key to Liverpol's capacity to respond to the challenge of more lavishly-funded clubs. They foresee successful managerial careers for Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney, and regard Brighton's Graham Potter as an England manager in waiting.

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Everton: an object lesson in how not to run a football club?

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 15:03:36 GMT

Mike Calvin, Faye Carruthers and Dominic Fifield sift through the wreckage of Rafa Benitez's brief reign at Everton, and doubt whether Roberto Martinez is the right man to succeed him. They see similar confusion at Newcastle, Manchester United and Spurs, focus on a key week in the relegation battle, and assess the damage caused by the chaotic postponement policy.

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Another final for Chelsea, but can they sustain their challenge for the Premier League title?

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 15:24:54 GMT

Mike Calvin, Glenn Moore and Tony Hodson set the scene for Chelsea's visit to Manchester City, live on BT Sport on Saturday lunchtime. They agree with Cristiano Ronaldo that the top three should be Manchester United's minimum expectation, but see no real reason (apart from Liverpool potentially poaching Jarrod Bowen) that West Ham cannot claim the final Champions League qualification place.

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Are Manchester City too good for the common good?

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 14:13:10 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and John Cross dwell on the pros and cons of Manchester City's dominance. Newcastle will have to get used to similar levels of envy and resentment, Southampton's model makes them upwardly mobile, Everton are arguably the most dysfunctional club in the Premier League, but the platform the FA Cup provides emerging players must be cherished.

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Is Ralf Rangnick on a hiding to nothing at Manchester United?

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 16:05:25 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor assess the cult of individualism at Manchester United. They praise the managerial authority of Thomas Tuchel, expect a clear out at Spurs, but have sympathy for Claudio Ranieri and Rafa Benitez. They also name their potential FA Cup giant killers.

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Who were your winners and losers in 2021?

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 06:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Dominic Fifield take an insightful, occasionally light-hearted, look back at football in 2021 There is good and bad news for Spurs, praise for the game's local heroes, and criticism for Arsenal, who made the most disappointing signing of the season.

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Was Thomas Tuchel right to suggest football needs to prioritise player safety?

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 15:24:11 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dominic Fifield and Jordan Jarrett-Bryan assess the challenges football faces in the current public health crisis. They expect Manchester City to eventually run away with the Premier League, suggest Aston Villa have a lot to look forward to in 2022, and, amidst a spate of poor refereeing performances, call for an immediate revision of VAR.

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Are Leeds United Marching On, into the Championship?

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 16:05:12 GMT

Mike Calvin, Richard Amofa and Glenn Moore use the precarious state of Leeds United's season as an example of the perils of a "big club " mentality, Expectation may also be counter productive at Newcastle, while Burnley are fighting the law of diminishing returns. At a time of renewed uncertainty, the panel also discuss worryingly low vaccination rates amongst players.

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Will English clubs continue to dominate the Champions League?

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 17:17:21 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward and Tony Hodson analyse the re-drawn last 16 in the Champions League. Liverpool and Manchester City have marginally tougher assignments, but Chelsea will be happy to be facing Lille. Instead of the projected Ronaldo-Messi shoot-out, Manchester United must overcome Atletico Madrid's pantomime villains, Diego Simeone and Luis Suarez.

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Can Chelsea come from behind in the three horse race for the Premier League title?

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 14:51:43 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne Marie Batson and Seb Stafford Bloor assess a critical six match sequence for contenders for the Premier League crown. Chelsea need to provide the right service to Romelu Lukaku, Manchester City require more from Jack Grealish and Liverpool can't be distracted by the Stevie G love in. The panel also look at Everton, Newcastle, Arsenal, Leicester and West Ham.

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In an era of English dominance, are Chelsea capable of retaining the Champions League title?

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 07:00:20 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Glenn Moore assess the balance of power in European club football as the Champions League enters its final round of fixtures in the group stages. They look at the relative merits of the Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga and Serie A before choosing their eventual winner from a widely-accepted elite group of four teams.

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Has Rafa Benitez made the biggest mistake of a celebrated managerial career?

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 15:10:11 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Glenn Moore question the wisdom of Rafa Benitez's decision to join Chelsea, and suggest he is a victim of generational change in football management. They examine Newcastle's plight, reflect on the dominance of the top three in the Premier League, and look forward to the women's FA Cup final between Arsenal and Chelsea on Sunday.

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Are Liverpool destined to cost Rafa Benitez his job at Everton?

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 15:04:04 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and John Cross look forward to a hugely significant Merseyside derby, and suggest Rafa Benitez may be a prisoner of previous regimes at Goodison Park. They believe relegation would not necessarily be a bad thing for Newcastle, and wonder whether Manchester United are already being managed remotely by Ralf Rangnick.

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Will Ralf Rangnick oversee a revolution at Manchester United?

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 15:49:47 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward and Dominic Fifield welcome Ralf Rangnick's arrival at Manchester United, but wonder whether he will be allowed to reshape the club in his own image, They praise Chelsea's youth development ,foresee problems for Antonio Conte at Tottenham, and believe the fan-led review of the game has the potential to be the catalyst for positive change.

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Who can clear up the mess at Manchester United?

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 15:27:05 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Tony Hodson analyse Manchester United's long term problems, which may be too onerous, even for Mauricio Pochettino They praise the ruthless efficiency of the Premier League's top three, and, in Champions League week, highlight Xavi's shrewdness in taking charge of what could be another golden generation at Barcelona.

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Which of the new Premier League managers will be most successful?

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 15:10:02 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Richard Amofa consider the consequences of change in the Premier League. They believe Steven Gerrard and Dean Smith are a perfect fit for their new clubs, Aston Villa and Norwich, but have reservations about Eddie Howe's impact at Newcastle. Leicester's Brendan Rodgers would be a significant managerial upgrade for Manchester United.

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Why aren't Manchester United acting as ruthlessly as other Premier League clubs?

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 15:34:38 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Miguel Delaney assess football's sacking season. They suggest Ole Gunnar Soskjaer should be put out of his misery at Manchester United, feel Dean Smith was the victim of the cruellest cut at Aston Villa, and believe Norwich City, rather than Newcastle United, would be the best fit for Eddie Howe.

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How far can Antonio Conte take Tottenham this season?

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 14:38:36 GMT

Mike Calvin, Glenn Moore and Anne Marie Batson examine the challenges Antonio Conte faces at Spurs, and the realistic limits of his ambition this season. They suspect Rafa Benitez would have been a better fit at Newcastle than Eddie Howe, and have sympathy for the struggle of Jadon Sancho to establish himself at Manchester United.

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Will Nuno be the only victim of football's sacking season?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 15:54:30 GMT

Mike Calvin, Ade Oladipo and Seb Stafford Bloor analyse the departure of Nuno Espirito Santo after only 17 matches as Tottenham manager, and the initial links with Antonio Conte. They believe Aston Villa should stand by the under-pressure Dean Smith, and discuss another critical week at Manchester United for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

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Are Manchester United in danger of being left behind?

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 13:50:21 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward and Adrian Clarke suggest the plight of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is a symbol of Manchester United's failure to move with the times. They highlight the contrasting fortunes of two former United managers, David Moyes and Jose Mourinho, and look at the limitations of Marcelo Bielsa's approach, at Leeds United. They also welcome the unanimous support for Australian player Josh Cavallo's decision to reveal his sexuality.

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Is it time for Manchester United to move on from Ole Gunnar Solksjaer?

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 12:03:14 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dominic Fifield and Richard Amofa call for change at Old Trafford, following Manchester United's humiliation by Liverpool. They believe the gap between the top three and the rest of the Premier League will continue to widen, with clubs like Norwich simply unable to cope.

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Is criticism of football managers out of control?

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 12:58:13 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Tony Hodson discuss the dehumanising nature of football management, and the pressure exerted on managers like Steve Bruce and Ole Gunnar Solksjaer. They examine Liverpool's chances of victory at Old Trafford, consider a challenging period for Thomas Tuchel, and suggest that coaches like Thomas Frank and Graham Potter have the ability to thrive at the biggest clubs.

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Will the Champions League eventually evolve into a Super League?

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 12:42:27 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and John Cross look forward to the return of the Champions League, and discuss how it may eventually be reshaped by the financial and political pressures of modern football. They call for change at Manchester United, suggest Mo Salah's future should lie with Liverpool, and believe all is not well behind the scenes at Newcastle United.

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How long will it take to turn Newcastle United into Premier League contenders?

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 13:29:03 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Glenn Moore share the disquiet about the nature of Newcastle United's takeover, and warn the rebuild will take longer than the majority of fans appear to think. They welcome Claudio Ranieri back to the Premier League with Watford, suggest Leicester will reset their season at Manchester United's expense, and foresee sustained struggle for Norwich, Burnley and Southampton.

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Is it a three horse race for the Premier League title?

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 14:03:01 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Darren Lewis assess potential champions as the Premier League takes shape. They praise Brentford and Brighton for their distinctive approaches, appreciate the power of Rafa Benitez's pragmatism, but can see no end to the travails of one of his former clubs, Newcastle United.

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Can Ole Gunnar Solksjaer survive as the Harry Houdini of modern football?

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 14:42:21 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Dominic Fifield suggest Solksjaer has until the end of the season to prove himself as Manchester United manager, Seb makes a passionate plea for change at Spurs, Dom expects Chelsea to be tactically tweaked after the international break, and Mike speaks of his despair at the latest, most shocking, example of racial abuse in European football.

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Is this the week that shapes Manchester City's season?

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 15:02:34 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Glenn Moore look ahead to Manchester City's Champions League tie against PSG, sandwiched between pivotal Premier League games against Chelsea and Liverpool, who should prevail in their ties against Juventus and Porto respectively. Manchester United cannot afford defeat against Villareal at Old Trafford, and the success of David Moyes highlights Tottenham's folly in appointing Nuno.

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Has Thomas Tuchel got inside Pep Guardiola's head?

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 14:06:41 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Tony Hodson believe Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea will continue their recent domination of Pep Guardiola's Manchester City at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. They focus on the merits of a range of Premier League coaches, including Dean Smith, Thomas Franck, Nuno, Rafa Benitez and Daniel Farke, but disagree with Bayern Munich's Julian Nagelsman's campaign for football to undergo a technological revolution.

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Have Liverpool got their mojo back?

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 14:28:48 GMT

Mike Calvin, Faye Carruthers and John Cross discuss Liverpool's resurgence, and their ability to resist the remorselessness of Chelsea, who face Manchester City in a definitive fixture next weekend. They also dwell on the human side of football, praising Manchester United's Phil Jones for his candour, and Brighton for their concentration on the wellbeing of their players, Due tribute is also paid to the humanity of a timeless hero, Jimmy Greaves.

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Can Ole Gunnar Solksjaer answer recurring doubts about his managerial quality?

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 13:37:50 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne Marie Batson and Richard Amofa assess Ole Gunnar Solksjaer's future at Manchester United in the light of the latest criticism of his approach. They sense similar issues with Mikel Arteta,praise the tactical acumen of Thomas Tuchel, and would love to see Robert Lewandowski at Liverpool.

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Can Chelsea successfully defend the Champions League title?

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 14:00:21 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Jordan Jarrett Bryan assess the contenders in this season's Champions League.: They acknowledge the threat represented by Bayern Munich and PSG, but forecast an English winner.

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Will Cristiano Ronaldo turn Manchester United into Premier League champions?

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 14:47:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dominic Fifield and Seb Stafford Bloor look beyond the pomp and ceremony of Ronaldo's return to Old Trafford, and ask whether he can give United the title they crave. They expect a messy compromise in the stand off about FIFA's intention to ban Brazilian players this weekend, but believe more conflict is inevitable. Big tests await Spurs, Leicester and Leeds.

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Are England potential World Cup winners?

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 12:52:01 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward and Glenn Moore insist that a rapidly-maturing England team is among the favorites to win the World Cup in Qatar next year. They question Arsene Wenger's support of FIFA's plans to have finals every two years, and, after a chaotic weekend, understand the opposition of leading clubs to the release of players to South American nations. They also condemn the FA for charging Middlesbrough's Marc Bola for social media posts, made when he was 14.

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Who were the winners and losers in the transfer window?

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 14:56:37 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Adrian Clarke praise Chelsea, Leicester, Brighton and West Ham for their transfer activity. The signing of Cristiano Ronaldo leaves Ole Gunnar Solksjaer without excuses, and Liverpool can ill-afford to lose Sporting Director Michael Edwards. Newcastle will pay a heavy price for their stagnation.

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Can Cristiano Ronaldo make a success of his return to the Premier League?

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 14:46:28 GMT

Recorded before news of Manchester United's attempt to re-sign Cristiano Ronaldo emerged, Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Art de Roche considered what he would bring to the Premier League : goals, stardust but perhaps not titles. They assessed the Champions League draw, made sense of Kylian Mbappe moving to Real Madrid, and called time on the League Cup

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Will Harry Kane be a Tottenham player when the transfer window closes?

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 14:52:52 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Darren Lewis discuss Harry Kane's future, and whether player power is a myth or reality. They hail Romelu Lukaku as a transformative signing, recognise Harvey Elliott's potential for club and country, and call for football to respond urgently to the dementia crisis.

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Will Paul Pogba leave Manchester United as Premier League champions?

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 12:35:54 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne Marie Batson and Glenn Moore consider Paul Pogba's impact in what seems likely to be his final season at Manchester United. They praise Academy products like Japhet Tanganga and Trevoh Chalobah, dwell on great starts for Brentford and Watford, but fear for managers like Mikel Arteta and Steve Bruce.

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Can Manchester United get their season off to a flying start?

Sat, 14 Aug 2021 05:00:19 GMT

The Premier League season kicks off on BT Sport on Saturday lunchtime, when Manchester United host Leeds United. Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Seb Stafford Bloor look forward to the latest instalment of a great tribal rivalry.

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Will Chelsea complete their domination of Manchester City by winning the Premier League?

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 14:16:27 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Seb Stafford Bloor all expect Chelsea to win the Premier League title, at the expense of Manchester City. They unveil their predictions for the top six, and bottom three.Each believes at least one of the promoted teams will survive.

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Could Manchester City switch their interest from Harry Kane to Erling Haaland?

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 13:35:55 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dominic Fifield and Adrian Clarke expect the unexpected in the aftermath of Lionel Messi's departure from Barcelona. They feel Jack Grealish will take time to fit in at City, believe Romelu Lukaku will add momentum to Chelsea's push for the Premier League title, and insist United have a fundamental decision to make on Paul Pogba.

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Can England recover and respond at next year's World Cup finals?

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 11:35:23 GMT

Mike Calvin, Glenn Moore and Ade Oladipo believe Gareth Southgate's squad has the youth and depth of talent to be one of the favourites at Qatar 2022, alongside Italy, France and Argentina. They also dwell on disgraceful scenes at Wembley, and condemn the racial abuse endured by Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka and Jadon Sancho.

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England will become European Champions on Sunday

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 12:07:39 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Dominic Fifield believe England are destined to win their first major tournament since 1966. But Sunday's final is not about ending 55 years of hurt. It is set to be a celebration of the now, and the new. Gareth Southgate's squad will seize their chance to set the nation's mood.

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Are England favourites to become European Champions?

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:49:42 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and David Preece take England to reach the final at Denmark's expense on Wednesday evening. Gareth Southgate's team feels different from previous incarnations, as do Italy, their probable opponents in the European Championship final.

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Can England seize their best chance to win a major tournament since 1966?

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 14:31:52 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward and Glenn Moore foresee England at least reaching the final of the European Championship. Gareth Southgate is a shrewd, statesmanlike manager. His squad is deep, prepared in the modern manner, and is the most likeable in a generation. Dare to dream.

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Can England withstand Germany, and the weight of football history?

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 15:08:12 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Art de Roche predict a narrow England win at Wembley next Tuesday, if Gareth Southgate trusts in Bukayo Saka, and resists the temptation to be too conservative. Wales' team spirit will be tested to the limit against Denmark, and Romelu Lukaku will confirm his importance to Belgium in a potentially classic last 16 match up against Portugal.

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England expects, but is the rivalry with Scotland really relevant?

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 14:12:49 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and David Preece expect a comfortable England win at Wembley on Friday night. They praise the unlikely heroes of Italy's resurgence, hail Gareth Bale as the manifestation of Welsh spirit, and suggest Cristiano Ronaldo will win the Euros for Portugal, if he operates as an out and out striker.

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Can England win the Euros?

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 14:41:26 GMT

Mike Calvin, Ade Oladipo and Adrian Clarke assess England's chances on the eve of the European Championships. They make their predictions, point out the pitfalls and the potential surprises, and end with a powerful look at the debate triggered by England players taking the knee.

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Will Manchester City throw more money at their Champions League problem?

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 14:08:16 GMT

Mike Calvin, Glenn Moore and Seb Stafford Bloor expect English clubs to spend big this summer, and seal a spell of European domination. They discuss promoted clubs, their team of last season, and, as Gareth Southgate finalises his England squad, name their winners of the European Championships.

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Can Chelsea deny Pep Guardiola his signature achievement?

Thu, 27 May 2021 14:52:27 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Daniel Storey assess the Champions League final, and the potential of Chelsea's counter-attacking style against favourites Manchester City. They consider the implications of Manchester United's failure to win the Europa League, and raise questions about the management of Ole Gunnar Solksjaer.

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Should Manchester United be judged on winning trophies?

Mon, 24 May 2021 13:57:36 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and David Preece look forward to Wednesday's Europa League final, and the respective merits of rival managers, Ole Gunnar Solksjaer and Unair Emery. They name their England squad for the European Championships, which includes a surprise goalkeeping choice and an area of inevitable controversy. Finally, each panellist names his most memorable moment of a unique sqason.

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Can Liverpool salvage their season?

Thu, 20 May 2021 15:13:19 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Richard Amofa look forward to the final day of the Premier League season. They see Liverpool and Chelsea making the top four, but argue that Leicester represent a long term threat to the so-called big clubs. Harry Kane deserves his transfer from Spurs, who have many problems to solve.

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Football. What would we do without it?

Mon, 17 May 2021 15:21:08 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward and Art de Roche reflect on a weekend for the ages, Leicester's FA Cup win reminded us of the importance of fans, and the shallowness of the so-called Super League. Allison Becker's response to his headed goal for Liverpool emphasised football's humanity, and Chelsea Women discovered the harshest lessons are delivered on the biggest stages.

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Will Leicester City find their Holy Grail at Wembley?

Thu, 13 May 2021 05:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Seb Stafford Bloor reflect on the development of Brendan Rodgers, and the significance of the FA Cup to Leicester City, and their fans. They also dwell on the possibility of a distinctive double for Chelsea being completed in the women's Champions League final against Barcelona on Sunday.

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Time to give Chelsea's women's team the credit they deserve?

Mon, 10 May 2021 15:41:41 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Seb Stafford Bloor reflect on Chelsea's third WSL title in four years, and hail Emma Hayes as one of the most influential coaches in English football. The rivalry with Manchester City, in both the men's and women's game, seems set to endure

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...Are Chelsea and Manchester City set to serve up a classic Champions League final?

Thu, 06 May 2021 14:02:54 GMT

Mike Calvin Miguel Delaney and Dominic Fifield believe the final foreshadows another era of sustained rivalry between Chelsea and City. They contrast two coaches at the peak of their powers, Pep Guardiola and Thomas Tuchel, with one in gradual decline, Jose Mourinho.

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Kevin de Bruyne : Footballer of the Year and Champions League winner?

Tue, 04 May 2021 05:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne Marie Batson and Adrian Clarke reveal who they are voting for in the FWA Footballer of the Year poll. They also dwell on the possibility of an all-English Champions League final, and welcome a huge cash boost for the women's version of the competition.

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Is it time to Draw the Line, and tackle online abuse, once and for all?

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 16:00:02 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne Marie Batson and Adrian Clarke mark the launch of BT & BT Sport's Draw the Line campaign, designed to tackle online abuse, by sharing their own experiences. They support a zero-tolerance policy, and will join this weekend's Bboycott to pressurise social media companies into more effective action.

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Are Mauricio Pochettino and PSG the neutral's favourite for the Champions League?

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 14:33:40 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Paul Hayward stress the importance of the Champions League at a time in which football has the chance to benefit from fundamental change. They believe Thomas Tuchel will steer Chelsea to this season's final, but suggest that PSG, the only semi finalists not to support the Super League, have been galvanised under Mauricio Pochettino.

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An important battle has been won. Will the war against greed in football be lost?

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 15:57:46 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Seb Stafford Bloor assess the fallout from the collapse of the planned Super League. Liverpool have come out of the controversy most badly, though fan protests, like those against the Glazers, Manchester United's owners, must continue at all six clubs. Tottenham can't expect redemption in the League Cup final at the end of one of the most 'Spursy' weeks in their history.

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Is Jose Mourinho's sacking by Spurs related to the Super League announcement?

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 15:15:07 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Ade Oladipo mull over a momentous few hours for football. They react to shock news of Jose Mourinho's departure from Tottenham, and doubt whether he will manage in the Premier League again. The rest of this edition is devoted to an impassioned debate about plans for a Super League.

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Do Leicester's players owe Brendan Rodgers a place in the FA Cup final?

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 14:26:27 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dominic Fifield and Miguel Delaney assess Leicester's challenging build up to Sunday's FA Cup semi final against Southampton. and praise the strength of Brendan Rodgers' management,They preview a potential Champions League final between Chelsea and Manchester City, and believe Jose Mourinho will probably be replaced in the summer, when Liverpool's squad must be overhauled.

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Can Liverpool save their season?

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 14:45:25 GMT

Mike Calvin, Art de Roche and David Preece discuss whether Liverpool can make the Champions League semi finals without the emotional intensity traditionally supplied by their fans. Will there be another twist in Paris, where PSG protect their lead against Bayern Munich? Manchester United are tipped to win the Europa League, but , like Liverpool, Arsenal have their season on the line.

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Can Manchester City meet the pressure of expectation?

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 15:08:24 GMT

Mike Calvin, Richard Amofa and Glenn Moore put Saturday's coaching match-up between Pep Guardiola and Marcelo Bielsa into the context of Manchester City's attempt to win four trophies this season. They feel Liverpool can still make the top four, hail Mason Mount's increasing impact, and warn that time is running out if Fulham are to avoid relegation.

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Can Manchester City afford not to sign Erling Haaland?

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 14:19:02 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Staford Bloor discuss the circus surrounding Erling Haaland, and his seemingly inevitable move from Borussia Dortmund. They believe Harry Kane should push to leave Tottenham, that Arsenal need to back Mikel Arteta by sanctioning summer sales, and reveal their best potential signings, from Barnsley to the Bundesliga.

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Can Bayern Munich prevent English domination of the Champions League?

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 14:02:27 GMT

Mike Calvin, Daniel Storey and Jonathan Northcroft assess what they regard as the strongest Champions League quarter-final line up for years. Manchester City define themselves by European success, and Chelsea are likely to emerge from the less taxing half of the draw, but English clubs will have to reckon with the relentlessness of the German champions.

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Are England capable of becoming European champions?

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 14:43:56 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward, and John Cross discuss the relevance of international football and the potential of Gareth Southgate's England squad. They praise his management style, assess his key decisions, and look forward to the Euro finals.

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Who are the winners and losers in this Premier League season?

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 15:37:12 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne Marie Batson and Jordan Jarrett Bryan assess the state of play in the Premier League. They acknowledge Manchester City's dominance, but reserve particular praise for Leicester, Chelsea and West Ham, Newcastle are deemed the biggest losers, but questions are also asked about Manchester United, Wolves and Tottenham under Jose Mourinho.

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Will an English club win this season's Champions League?

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 16:39:46 GMT

Mike Calvin, Melissa Reddy and David Preece react to today's European draws. They envisage Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool making the Champions League semi finals. A Europa League final between Manchester United and Arsenal may also be on the cards.

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Can Thomas Tuchel return to the Champions League final with Chelsea?

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 14:46:55 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Ade Oladipo assess Chelsea's Champions League chances, but make Manchester City favourites. Despite Manchester United's struggle in the Europa League, they believe Ole Gunnar Solksjaer deserves praise. In North London, Mikel Arteta offers greater scope for progress than Jose Mourinho.

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Are Newcastle United destined to be relegated?

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 16:44:14 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Art de Roche fear for Newcastle's Premier League future. They assess the North London derby and, at a time of transition in European football, unanimously condemn plans for an extended,closed shop, Champions League.

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You have an unlimited transfer budget. Who do you sign, Kylian Mbappe or Erling Haaland

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 15:55:16 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Adrian Clarke discuss the relative merits of the new big two, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, at the start of a pivotal week in the Champions League. They ask how low Liverpool can go, see warning signs for Manchester City in United's derby victory, and believe Arsenal have been disadvantaged by UEFA.

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Are Manchester City The Inevitables?

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 15:42:30 GMT

Mike Calvin, Richard Amofa and Glenn Moore consider City's fifth Premier League title in a decade a formality. Who can meet their challenge domestically and in Europe? Manchester United are running key players into the ground and Chelsea's culture of impatience acts against them. Newcastle, meanwhile, are in big trouble.

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What role will fans play in football's future?

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 16:40:19 GMT

Mike Calvin, Paul Hayward and Dominic Fifield discuss the issues raised in 'Ours' , the latest BT Sport Films documentary, which will be shown on BT Sport 1 at 10.30pm on Tuesday. They base their optimism for the future of the game on the fans' resilience, passion and innovation. They also discuss the top six, and Fulham's chances of avoiding the drop.

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Will the Moyes effect stop City in their tracks?

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 15:06:34 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne Marie Batson and Jonathan Northcroft praise David Moyes for following his Everton blueprint at West Ham. They discuss the influence of Juanma Lillo, Pep Guardiola's mentor, and believe Steven Gerrard is proving why he will one day return to Liverpool as manager.

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Can Manchester City's dominance extend to the Champions League?

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 15:02:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and John Cross discuss the future of the Champions League, and the implications of City's current superiority. They refuse to write off Liverpool, regard Chelsea as potential European champions, and believe it is realistic to imagine Leicester City winning the Europa League.

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Can Jurgen Klopp find salvation in the Champions League?

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 15:58:04 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Richard Amofa believe Jurgen Klopp deserves to retain the faith of fans as Liverpool seek a way out of their sudden crisis. They see Manchester City and Bayern Munich as Champions League favourites, but foresee problems for Barcelona against PSG. The panel also call for more militant action from players, in the face of persistent abuse.

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Time to remember that managers like Jurgen Klopp and Brendan Rodgers are human beings?

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 15:12:07 GMT

Description Mike Calvin, Ade Oladipo and Glenn Moore focus on Liverpool managers, past and present before they meet at Leicester on Saturday. They hail the impact of Raheem Sterling at Manchester City, understand the sensitivity of Gareth Bale to potential injury, and relish Friday's night's Manchester derby in the WSL.

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Is Jose Mourinho lost without Harry Kane?

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 15:49:26 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor believe Jose Mourinho has a responsibility to protect Harry Kane, despite his fundamental importance to the Tottenham team. They won't rule out a Manchester City quadruple, but see Leicester as potential FA Cup winners, Manchester United need to give Dean Henderson a run in goal, starting with Wednesday's fifth-round tie against West Ham.

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Is Liverpool's title defence already over?

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 14:20:40 GMT

Mike Calvin, Melissa Reddy and Dominic Fifield suspect Liverpool's priority will be to protect a top four place, and concentrate on the Champions League. They applaud Manchester City's relentlessness, predict Thomas Tuchel will be a success at Chelsea, and believe the current bottom three will eventually be relegated.

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Can Marcus Rashford lead football's fight against racial abuse?

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 15:22:36 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Miguel Delaney hail Marcus Rashford's influence, but feel direct action by players, and concerted pressure on social media companies, is required to combat increasing abuse. They highlight a busy week of Premier League action on BT Sport, hail Ruben Dias as a title-winning signing for Manchester City, and fear Fulham, WBA and Sheffield United will be relegated.

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Is Thomas Tuchel the right man for Chelsea?

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 15:29:17 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Art de Roche give their first impressions of Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea. They assess the impact of German coaches, predict this will be Pep Guardiola's greatest season, and foresee Julian Nagelsman as Jurgen Klopp's eventual successor at Liverpool.

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Did Frank Lampard deserve to be sacked by Chelsea?

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 15:47:40 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarett Bryan and Seb Stafford Bloor discuss Frank Lampard's sacking, and the suitability of his anticipated replacement, Thomas Tuchel. They see Steve Bruce's dream job turning sour at Newcastle, analyse the challenge facing Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool, and condemn plans for a European Super League.

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Are Leicester capable of fighting on three fronts?

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 14:53:33 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne Marie Batson and Glenn Moore believe the FA Cup is more open than ever. They highlight an important opportunity for clubs like Everton, Southampton and West Ham, but also identify Blackpool, Doncaster and Luton as potential giant killers.

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Pep Guardiola is 50 today, Could he win both the Premier League and Champions League this season?

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 15:25:19 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by former players David Preece and Adrian Clarke, who foresee a special season for Manchester City. They feel it will take five years for Frank Lampard to rival Brendan Rodgers, doubt that Sam Allardyce will keep WBA up, and have mixed feelings about Wayne Rooney's move into management.

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Are Manchester United contenders or pretenders?

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 14:45:51 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Dominic Fifield assess the title race as Manchester United face a pivotal game at Anfield. They discuss whether Liverpool's trophy window is closing, how Phil Foden symbolises Manchester City's development, and if Jose Mourinho is his own worst enemy, Plus : is football's "no-hug" protocol realistic?

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How should football respond to the Covid crisis?

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 15:40:11 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Glenn Moore believe,on balance, the football season should continue,but that the calendar is unsustainable. They disagree about the merits of the FA Cup, but are unanimous in suggesting that the European Championships should be postponed. In domestic terms, Manchester City are emerging as potential champions.

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Will Liverpool reboot their season in the FA Cup?

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 15:05:57 GMT

Mike Calvin, Melissa Reddy and David Preece consider Jurgen Klopp's options before Friday's televised third-round tie against Aston Villa. They highlight Spurs and Everton as potential FA Cup winners, but foresee problems for Brighton at Newport.

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Will Frank Lampard get the time he needs at Chelsea?

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 15:47:19 GMT

In this, the 300th episode, Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross and Seb Stafford Bloor. They discuss the pressure on Frank Lampard, dwell on Manchester City's title chances, but criticise Pep Guardiola's defence of Benjamin Mendy. They also focus on Manchester United, Spurs, Arsenal, and football's issues with social media abuse.

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Who were the winners and losers in 2020?

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Darren Lewis review football in 2020. They reveal their choices of player, young player and breakthrough player of the year, They also talk about memorable matches, the biggest disappointments, and the one thing in the game they would happily consign to the dustbin of history.

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Can Manchester United challenge Liverpool for the title?

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 16:08:02 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Jonathan Northcroft assess a title race that's suddenly at sixes and sevens, They caution against writing off Spurs, expect Manchester City to move for Erland Haaland, and fear for the future of Mikel Arteta.

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Will Liverpool's mentality monsters retain the Premier League title?

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 15:23:29 GMT

Mike Calvin, Ade Oladipo and Richard Amofa consider the significance of the champions' consistency and character. They defend Jose Mourinho from charges that he employs anti-football tactics, but suggest WBA would have been better retaining Slaven Bilic, instead of bringing in Sam Allardyce.

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Can all three English teams reach the last eight of the Champions League?

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 17:19:09 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Dominic Fifield assess the European draws. They foresee few problems for Liverpool and Manchester City in the Champions League and relish a return to Chelsea by Diego Costa. They predict more pain for Arsenal and Manchester United, this time in the Europa League.

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Which club is in greatest crisis, Manchester United or Arsenal?

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 15:36:21 GMT

Mike Calvin, Art de Roche and Jonathan Northcroft discuss deep problems facing Manchester United and Arsenal. They call for greater leadership from the football authorities on the issue of racial, and dwell on the lessons of Jean Marc Bosman, whose plight is featured in a BT Sport documentary.

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What can Manchester United learn from Liverpool?

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 15:17:05 GMT

Mike Calvin, Melissa Reddy and Anne Marie Batson preview another critical week for Manchester United. They assess what lessons Liverpool give them, and consider the title potential of Tottenham and Chelsea, before having a powerful discussion about racism in football and society.

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Who's the best, Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo?

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are due to face one another, for possibly the final time, on Dec 8. Mike Calvin is joined by Miguel Delaney and Adrian Clarke to decide which of the two icons of modern football is the best.

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Has football got the will to tackle two of its biggest problems, dementia and racism?

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 16:13:44 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Jordan Jarrett Bryan are joined by Anton Ferdinand in a special edition of the Football Writers' podcast. They discuss Anton's documentary about racism in the game, and respond to the worrying news that Raul Jiminez has fractured his skull. Will football fulfil its duty of care?

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Does Diego Maradona deserve to be remembered as The Greatest?

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 15:52:45 GMT

Mike Calvin, who covered the Hand of God game in Mexico in 1986, is joined by Miguel Delaney, Glenn Moore and Ade Oladipo in a special edition, commemorating the life and times of Diego Maradona. They reflect on his genius, consider how he would fare in the modern game, and name their choices as the greatest footballer of all time.

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Will Jose Mourinho teach Jurgen Klopp a trick or two this season?

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 15:15:28 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Art de Roche weigh up the managerial reputations of Jose Mourinho and Jurgen Klopp. They see Chelsea as title challengers, believe Lionel Messi is an avoidable distraction for Manchester City, and draw parallels between goalscoring problems suffered by Manchester United and Arsenal.

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Who will prevail in the grind of this, the hardest season?

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 15:09:08 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Dominic Fifield analyse Liverpool's capacity to overcome injuries and infections. They praise Brendan Rodgers, dwell on the promise of Mason Mount and look forward to the measured return of crowds. Speaking before news of Pep Guardiola's new City contract, they also examine the challenges facing the Manchester clubs.

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Will the season be decided by the extreme demands on players?

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 15:42:27 GMT

Mike Calvin, Glenn Moore and Richard Amofa analyse the consequences of a crowded season. They hail women's football weekend, envisage Arsene Wenger as FA chairman, and predict a revolution in recruitment.

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Can Leicester shock the football world once more?

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 16:11:24 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne Marie Batson and Dominic Fifield assess Leicester's chances of repeating their 2016 title triumph. They suspect Liverpool and Manchester City will reassert themselves, but praise the progress made by Southampton, Spurs and Chelsea. International football, though, is becoming difficult to justify.

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Are Liverpool capable of becoming consistent champions?

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 15:30:56 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Jordan Jarrett Bryan believe Liverpool have the ingredients required to develop a dynasty. They predict Everton will add to deep-seated problems at Manchester United, suggest Chelsea are coming together quickly, and feel Arsenal could make the top three.

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Are Chelsea capable of winning the Premier League this season?

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 15:18:42 GMT

Mike Calvin and Ade Oladipo do not share Darren Lewis's confidence in Frank Lampard's squad, even in this, the most unpredictable of seasons. The panel draws a damning contrast between Mikel Arteta and Ole Gunnar Solksjaer, and sees the logic of Pep Guardiola returning to Barcelona. They also identify Leicester's Wes Morgan as a leader of the future.

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Has Ole Gunnar Solksjaer finally proved his critics wrong?

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 15:50:25 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Art de Roche deliver overdue praise for the Manchester United manager. They believe it is now or never for Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, and back Jurgen Klopp to steer Liverpool safely to the international break. They also consider the merits of British coaches, Marcelo Bielsa's influence at Leeds, and the danger of Slaven Bilic becoming the Premier League's first managerial casualty of the season.

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Which Premier League club has the best chance of winning the Champions League this season?

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 16:24:43 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Glenn Moore have faith in Liverpool's ability to overcome the loss of Virgil Van Dijk. They feel Manchester City are flat, Manchester United are fallible and Chelsea face a delicate balancing act. Also on the agenda : VAR, athletes as activists, and the England women's team.

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Who's doing the best job, Frank Lampard or Ole Gunnar Solksjaer?

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 15:43:02 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne Marie Batson and Jordan Jarrett Bryan analyse managerial matters at Manchester United and Chelsea. They assess Liverpool's defensive options, consider Manchester City's title credentials, and disagree on the merits of Mesut Ozil. They also praise Marcus Rashford, and make a powerful plea for change.

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Are Liverpool already at a huge disadvantage in the Champions League?

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 15:19:12 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Dominic Fifield believe the Champions League is more open than ever, in a compressed season shaped by injury to key players. Manchester City have the easiest group, Liverpool will struggle due to the loss of Virgil Van Dijk, Manchester United are vulnerable at PSG, and Chelsea cannot afford more poor defending against Sevilla.

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Will Everton seize bragging rights on Merseyside?

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 14:32:22 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Richard Amofa believe Everton will never have a better chance of winning the Merseyside derby. They also call for Harry McGuire to be taken out of the firing line, hail Thomas Partey as a key Arsenal signing, and look at the future of the game, following the rejection of Project Big Picture.

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Can the future of English football be entrusted to the top six?

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 14:43:56 GMT

Mike Calvin, Sarah Shephard and Ade Oladipo consider the implications of Project Big Picture, the secretive plan for far-reaching change driven by Liverpool and Manchester United. They believe some proposals are "horrible" and "cynical", but can see the benefits in other aspects of the initiative. They also fear for international football, and the potential consequences of more players testing positive in the pandemic.

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Is this unique season going to provide more surprises?

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 14:34:04 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Glenn Moore believe we should expect the unexpected due to a unique set of circumstances. Liverpool's thrashing by Aston Villa is a blip, but Manchester United have deep-seated problems. There's praise for Jose Mourinho, Marcelo Biesla and Carlo Ancelotti, and a preview of two key WSL games, on BT Sport next weekend.

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Has Frank Lampard got the Right Stuff as Chelsea manager?

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 14:35:31 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Anne Marie Batson express their faith in Frank Lampard, but consider Manchester United's transfer dealings "an embarrassment." They fear that football has lost the Government's trust, call for fans to be readmitted to grounds, and believe that international football is being marginalised

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Should the new handball laws be scrapped?

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 14:14:30 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Art de Roche believe the new laws are damaging the game. They support Tottenham's complaints about a fixture pile up, call for greater support for the football pyramid, and analyse how Arsenal have stolen a march on Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United.

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Is football doing enough to help itself through its greatest crisis?

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 14:47:43 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dominic Fifield and Adrian Clarke assess the extent of the crisis confronting football. They believe the PFA is betraying its members, and that Premier League clubs, preoccupied by a potential breakaway to form a European Super League, must do more to help those in the EFL.

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Are Manchester United in danger of being left behind?

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 12:59:02 GMT

Mike Calvin. Miguel Delaney and Richard Amofa highlight the flaws in United's transfer policy, and the lingering doubts about Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's management. They examine the mounting pressure on Frank Lampard, the instant impact of Thiago, and the potential of new front threes at Spurs and Everton.

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Are Chelsea the real deal?

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 14:35:17 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne Marie Batson and Jonathan Northcroft analyse the challenge facing Frank Lampard at Chelsea. They hail the return of Gareth Bale, discuss Mason Greenwood’s treatment by sections of the media, and call for change to protect football’s future.

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Will Tottenham be a mid-table team under Jose Mourinho?

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 14:53:22 GMT

Mike Calvin, Ade Olapido and John Cross review the opening weekend of the Premier League season. They foresee problems for Jose Mourinho, praise Arsenal's progress under Mikel Arteta, and call for greater financial help for EFL clubs.

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Who wins the Premier League, and who gets relegated?

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 14:20:03 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Jordan Jarrett Bryan name their winners and losers in the new Premier League season. Top four, bottom three, surprise sides, biggest flops and best signings. Will you agree?

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Is the top four in the Premier League a closed shop?

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 14:21:24 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dominic Fifield and Miguel Delaney suggest only Arsenal have a realistic chance of breaking into the top four. Is Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Manchester United's weakest link? What does Frank Lampard need to achieve to survive at Chelsea? With Liverpool restricted financially, will Lionel Messi be Manchester City's Christmas present?

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Should England be playing in the Nations League?

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 14:20:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Art de Roche throw a spotlight on England, and the relevance of international football. They look forward to this weekend's return of the WSL, hail Marcus Rashford as football's most powerful role model, and name their signing of the summer, so far.

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What impact would Lionel Messi have on English football?

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 14:49:59 GMT

Mike Calvin, Sarah Shephard and Richard Amofa consider the implications of City signing Lionel Messi. They also analyse the latest England squad, the Community Shield, and the chances of Premier League footballers refusing to play in protest at racial inequalities.

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Does English football have a superiority complex?

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 13:49:18 GMT

Mike Calvin, Ade Oladipo and Adrian Clarke discuss Neymar's tears, Bayern's team ethic, and what Premier League clubs can learn from Champions League disappointment, They also ask whether our teams should take the Europa League more seriously.

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Can Neymar prevent Bayern Munich from winning the Champions League?

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 14:15:37 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Anne Marie Batson look forward to Sunday's final. Their six to watch? Neymar, Mbappe, Di Maria, Lewandowski, Gnabry and Davies, They praise Europa League finalist Romelu Lukaku, and analyse the task facing Arsenal Women, the only remaining English team in European competition.

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Are Pep Guardiola and Ole Gunnar Solksjaer the best managers for City and United?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 14:34:56 GMT

Mike Calvin, Alyson Rudd and Jordan Jarrett Bryan call for Pep Guardiola to commit himself, long term, to Manchester City. They consider the merits of Mauricio Pochettino over Ole Gunnar Solksjaer, analyse

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Will Pep Guardiola reach his Holy Grail?

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 14:27:57 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dom Fifield and John Cross assess Manchester City, and the three wins they need to be European champions. They discuss Barcelona's faults, Neymar's impact, Lewandowski's status, and the threat Antonio Conte represents to Manchester United's chances of winning the Europa League.

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Can anyone beat Bayern?

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 15:09:33 GMT

Mike Calvin Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor make Manchester City third favourites for the Champions League, behind Bayern and Atletico Madrid. They see Wolves as Manchester United's biggest threat in the Europa League, question Andrea Pirlo's appointment at Juventus, and doubt the viability of the EFL's salary cap.

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Must Manchester City win the Champions League before Pep Guardiola leaves?

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 15:37:01 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Anne Marie Batson weigh up City's chances against Real Madrid when the Champions League resumes. They discuss the morality of huge transfer investments when clubs like Arsenal are announcing redundancies, consider Gareth Bale's future, and call for big clubs to renounce FA Cup prize money for the common good.

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Should Manchester United take the Europa League seriously?

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 13:30:36 GMT

Mike Calvin, Ade Oladipo and Miguel Delaney believe United have a real chance of a European trophy. They analyse the fallout from the FA Cup final, preview the Championship play off final, and have far-reaching views on the state of the modern game.

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Will underdogs Arsenal lift the FA Cup?

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 15:37:44 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Richard Amofa believe a Wembley win is essential to aid Mikel Arteta's team building. They also consider Brentford's Premier League potential, the season's best and worst transfers, and name their breakthrough players.

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What do Manchester United need to do to become legitimate title challengers?

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 15:12:32 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Art de Roche discuss United's strengths and weaknesses in what, for them, is an especially extended season, They also assess European qualifiers, consider Eddie Howe's future, and wonder which, if any, of the relegated teams will bounce back immediately.

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Will Liverpool maintain their dominance of the Premier League?

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 15:29:21 GMT

Mike Calvin Jonathan Northcroft and Jordan Jarrett Bryan see more success on the horizon for the new champions. They outline weaknesses in their principal challengers, consider their Footballer of the Year candidates, and wonder whether Watford will regret sacking Nigel Pearson.

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Should Pep Guardiola's record at Manchester City come under greater scrutiny?

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 15:21:04 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor question Manchester's Big Two, Pep Guardiola and Ole Gunnar Solksjaer, They call for Mikel Arteta to be backed financially at Arsenal, look forward to Marcelo Bielsa's arrival in the Premier League, and condemn Watford's sacking of Nigel Pearson

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Will the FA Cup final be a Manchester derby?

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 14:58:23 GMT

Despite doubts about United's priorities, Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor predict an all-Manchester FA Cup final. They discuss friction between leading managers, Wolves' chances of winning the Europa League, and call for a refereeing revolution.

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The most important victory in Manchester City's history?

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 15:05:19 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor discuss the overturning of City's Champions League ban. Is football about to enter a new era, in which limits on spending are abandoned? Who will benefit, and how will the race to qualify for next season's competition pan out?

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How badly is football missing the fans?

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 15:20:32 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor assess how football is faring, three weeks into Project Restart. Which initiatives will endure, and how will the game change? They also look at the transfer market, the relegation struggle, and the under-appreciated excellence of Sean Dyche.

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Will Jose Mourinho be successful at Tottenham?

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 15:06:33 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Adrian Clarke discuss Jose Mourinho's troubled start as Spurs manager. They also hail the emergence of Mason Greenwood and the potential of a new generation of English footballers.

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Who is going down from the Premier League?

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 15:59:50 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor assess the Premier League relegation battle. They hold out little hope for Norwich and Bournemouth, but who do they tip to avoid the drop?

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Is this the start of a Liverpool dynasty?

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 14:33:51 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor discuss how rivalries at the top of the Premier League will deepen and develop, Where will the strongest challenge to Liverpool come from? Can Manchester City win the treble, and how will the FA Cup semi finals pan out?

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Will Manchester United win the FA Cup this season?

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 06:38:10 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jordan Jarrett Bryan and Seb Stafford Bloor preview this weekend's FA Cup quarter finals. They make United favourites, but warn that Arsenal can no longer be classified as a big club.

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Will Liverpool win the Premier League tonight?

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 12:30:07 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Jordan Jarret Bryan look forward to tonight's potentially decisive game between Chelsea and Manchester City at Stamford Bridge. Two believe Liverpool's long wait will be over in a matter of hours....

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Chelsea - is the Empire about to strike back?

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 14:31:24 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor forecast a bright future for Chelsea, once the formalities of Liverpool's title win are completed. They wonder whether Wolves are too good for their own good, and analyse the struggle to avoid relegation.

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With the Premier League title effectively conceded, what next for Manchester City?

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 15:17:42 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Adrian Clarke prepare for Liverpool's coronation, and ask whether Manchester City can win the Champions League. They condemn technological injustice and consider the good and bad aspects of player power.

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Football's back. What have you missed most?

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 14:47:04 GMT

With the Premier League returning this week, Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Adrian Clarke discuss the unique challenges of a mini season. They describe how football has been missed, and how it has gained a new leader, in Marcus Rashford.

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What more can football do to tackle racism?

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 16:43:12 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Jordan Jarrett Bryan, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor for an honest and challenging debate on all aspects of racism in the modern game.

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Will Manchester City's appeal against a Champions League ban shape football's future?

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 15:01:30 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Adrian Clarke discuss a controversy that could be as significant as the Bosman ruling. They also examine Chelsea's recruitment strategy, chaos in League One, and Liverpool's relegation from the WSL.

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Which clubs are in deepest relegation trouble?

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 14:49:33 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor assess Premier League relegation candidates, and the importance of protecting football's competitive credibility. They also dwell on a week in which players were confirmed as powerful role models.

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Who has most to gain, and most to lose, when the Premier League resumes?

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 15:19:49 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Adrian Clarke expect Manchester United and Wolves to make a concerted push for the top four. They also celebrate footballers' freedom of expression, and name their latest batch of players to watch when football restarts.

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Should fan-run clubs be part of football's survival plan?

Thu, 28 May 2020 14:39:27 GMT

As the Premier League ramps up to restart on June 20, Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Adrian Clarke look at the role fans can play in the future of the game. They also start to name their players to watch when, finally, the season resumes.

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Who is your football hero?

Mon, 25 May 2020 05:00:00 GMT

A special edition of the Football Writers' podcast, in which listeners choose their football heroes. Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke, and Seb Stafford Bloor go through the an A-Z of heroes from Alan Devonshire to Zico.

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Is football management more insecure than ever?

Thu, 21 May 2020 14:26:31 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor look at the financial and emotional challenges facing football managers, They also put Rangers' great Euro nights into the context of their current problems, and examine the future of the women's game.

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Has the Bundesliga set a high bar for the Premier League?

Mon, 18 May 2020 13:24:14 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford Bloor and Daniel Storey discuss football's new reality. Norwich captain Grant Hanley and Leicester's Hamza Choudhury give the players' perspective. Also: Football's Room 101 and the passing of the scouts' scout.

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Is the Bundesliga the best league in which to develop young players?

Thu, 14 May 2020 15:33:24 GMT

Mike Calvin. Seb Stafford Bloor and Adrian Clarke look forward to the return of the Bundesliga, and examine the players to watch out for. Also : Manchester City in the Champions League, and the legacy of Euro 2016.

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Will football's fallout include B teams in the EFL?

Mon, 11 May 2020 14:58:31 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor explore further potential changes to the English game. They also discuss player welfare, the impending return of the Bundesliga, and consider the potential of England's starlets.

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Despite the uncertainties, do England remain potential World Cup winners?

Thu, 07 May 2020 14:41:31 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor discuss the future of the England team, manager Gareth Southgate, and the international game. They also assess Tottenham's great European nights, and whether Ronaldhino meant THAT goal against Davie Seaman at the 2002 World Cup.

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Is the football pyramid under threat?

Mon, 04 May 2020 14:32:38 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor consider football's nuclear options. They also discuss the myth of hero managers like Fabio Capello, and reveal the matches they cannot brings themselves to watch again.

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Is the transfer market about to undergo a revolution?

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 15:44:27 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor to plot the future of the transfer system. They also consider Mauricio Pochettino joining Newcastle, look back at Euro 2004, and assess Celtic’s great European nights.

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Is football in danger of coming back too soon?

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 15:07:29 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Adrian Clarke Seb Stafford Bloor to discuss the timing of football’s return. They also examine whether Phil Neville should be replaced immediately as manager of the Lionesses, and identify a potential Premier League manager of the season.

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What will football look like in the future?

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 14:31:54 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Seb Stafford Bloor and Adrian Clarke to look at how the game will be changed by the current crisis. They answer listeners’ questions, in addition to analysing Chelsea’s greatest European nights, and assessing Euro 96.

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Does football need heroes more than ever?

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 16:53:45 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor to discuss their heroes, and the listeners’ personal favourites. Also features an in depth and highly personal look at Italia 90.

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Time to stop taking fans for granted?

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 15:56:33 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor to discuss fan engagement, the Newcastle takeover, managerial heavyweights, Arsenal’s European nights and Euro 92.

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Does the transfer market have a viable future?

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 05:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford to discuss how transfers will change, analyse the next batch of Premier League managers, and focus on the 2006 World Cup.

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Players Together – a game changer?

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 15:25:50 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford to discuss the players’ new charitable initiative, Liverpool’s greatest European matches, and the sliding doors moments of Mexico 86.

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Can football afford a lack of trust and solidarity?

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 17:23:04 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Seb Stafford Bloor and Adrian Clarke to discuss the latest developments, plus a look back at France’ 82 and the ABC of Premier League management.

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How will football emerge from its moral maze?

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 15:12:54 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford discuss football’s future and its past, in the form of France 98 and great European nights involving Manchester United.

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Too soon to decide football’s future?

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 16:52:42 GMT

With talk of contingency plans involving the restart of the Premier League with players in a quarantine camp, Mike Calvin is joined by Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford Bloor to discuss football’s crisis strategy.

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Can football be more than a game?

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 18:55:56 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined remotely by Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford-Bloor to gauge football’s impact in unprecedented times, from Bhutan to Stevenage, via Manchester United and Spurs.

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Football will just have to wait

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 17:52:28 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross and Tony Hodson who discuss the uncertain time football currently faces, and whether Liverpool lift the trophy in an empty stadium.

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Another glorious European night for Liverpool?

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 17:56:14 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford-Bloor discuss how the footballing theatre of Anfield will impact a big night in Liverpool's season. They also study the footballing philosophies of Klopp and Simeone, and take a look at Mourinho’s recent outspoken gripes.

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Are there doubts creeping in on Frank Lampard at Chelsea?

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 17:52:03 GMT

Mike Calvin, Alyson Rudd and Daniel Storey discuss the question marks surrounding Frank Lampard’s ability to get the best out of Chelsea, following recent results at the Bridge. The trio also analyse how Liverpool’s first league defeat may affect their approach to other competitions, and Jose Mourinho’s striking crisis at Spurs.

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Man City's season on the line in Madrid

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 18:06:25 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke, and Dominic Fifield discuss the upcoming Champions League knockout rounds with Manchester City travelling to Real Madrid with the shadow of their UEFA ban hanging over them. Chelsea host Bayern Munich, and Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi return to action in their ties.

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A Battle for Football's future?

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 17:12:38 GMT

This week, Mike Calvin and his guests Darren Lewis and Tony Hodson discuss the fallout between Man City and Uefa, but who will come out on top; footballs governing authorities or the 'super' clubs?

The trio also talk over the upcoming Champions League fixtures and challenges posed to the English clubs.

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Who's the 'best of the rest' this season?

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 17:38:15 GMT

With the title all but decided, Mike Calvin and guests Miguel Delaney and Andy Dillon discuss the best of the rest; could Wolves win a trophy and do Leicester look set on sticking in the top three?

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Women's Football Podcast: Are Chelsea now the favourites for the WSL title?

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 06:00:30 GMT

Can Chelsea maintain their march to the title when they face Manchester United in the BT Sport WSL match this Sunday? Are Liverpool on the brink of relegation? The panel also discuss the influence and growth of women coaches in the game.

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Are the cracks starting to appear on Guardiola’s City reign?

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 17:46:39 GMT

Was Jose’s win over Pep a masterclass or a stroke of luck? Can Liverpool entice Kylian Mbappe to join this summer? Have Chelsea blown their top four chances by not investing in the transfer market? The panel discuss the weekend’s major talking points and what lies ahead in the race for the top four and midweek FA Cup matches.

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Has the magic of the FA Cup really disappeared?

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 18:29:53 GMT

This week, Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross and Tom Hopkinson as they discuss the oldest, national football competition in the world, the FA Cup. The panel also chat Manchester United, and the issues currently surrounding the club.

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Liverpool - the victory lap begins

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 17:58:01 GMT

Are we witnessing the start of a dynasty at Liverpool? Mike Calvin is joined by Alyson Rudd and Daniel Storey to discuss title formalities, and future domination.

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How far have Manchester United fallen behind Liverpool?

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 17:28:13 GMT

On this weeks Football Writers Podcast, Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Dominic Fifield assess the current state of Liverpool and Manchester United both on and off the pitch, as rivalries renew once again this weekend.

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Is time up for Eddie Howe at Bournemouth?

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 17:08:13 GMT

This week on the Football Writers podcast, Mike Calvin is joined by Darren Lewis and Seb Stafford-Bloor who look at the issues which lie ahead for the sides at the bottom of the Premier League table as the pressure begins to mount on relegation threatened Bournemouth and their manager Eddie Howe.

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Dare to Dream: An FA Cup special.

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 06:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and David Preece search for impending upsets in the third round of the FA Cup. West Ham, Southampton, Norwich and Chelsea under threat? The panel make their judgements, and name their eventual winners.

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The Perfect Ten for BT Sport?

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 06:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross and David Preece to discuss the New Year’s programme, and focus on the job prospects of Ole Gunnar Solksjaer at Manchester United. They also name their breakthrough player of the season.

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First Europe. Now the World.

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 17:22:56 GMT

Will Liverpool finally become champions of England in the Premier League era? Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross and David Preece to discuss the building of a Super Club on Merseyside. Also features analysis of the challenges facing Carlo Ancelotti, Mikel Arteta and Pep Guardiola.

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Women’s Football Podcast: What’s next for women’s football?

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 10:54:13 GMT

After a breakthrough year, the Olympics beckon in 2020. Mike Calvin is joined by Suzy Wrack, Katie Whyatt and Kieran Theivam to discuss Team GB, and the rise of the WSL.

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Liverpool? Man City? Barcelona? Who will win the 2019/20 Champions League?

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 17:38:39 GMT

Tony Hodson and Miguel Delaney join Mike Calvin following the draw for the last 16 of the Champions League. Together they consider Jürgen Klopp's place among Liverpool's greatest managers, discuss Manchester City's chances of overcoming Real Madrid and whether the time is right for Mikel Arteta to make the move into management at Arsenal.

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Could Liverpool go the whole Premier League season unbeaten?

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 16:55:35 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Darren Lewis and Seb Stafford-Bloor to discuss Liverpool's firm grip on the Premier League title, Manchester United's blistering victory at rivals City, and the chances of all four English teams reaching the Champions League knockout stage.

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Is Ljungberg the right man to succeed Emery at Arsenal?

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 16:57:24 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and David Preece discuss Arsenal's managerial options and look ahead to the midweek Premier League fixtures as Jose Mourinho returns to Old Trafford.

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Is José Mourinho a changed man?

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 17:44:52 GMT

Adrian Clarke and Dominic Fifield join Mike Calvin to discuss Tottenham's decision to replace Mauricio Pochettino with José Mourinho, and how the future looks for the North London club with the 'Humble One' at the helm.

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How do Spurs move forward?

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 17:56:14 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford-Bloor and Andy Dillon look ahead to the London derby between West Ham and Spurs this weekend with both managers under pressure. The panel also assess England’s final Euro 2020 qualifiers and look at the club sides benefiting from the England setup.

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Women's Football Podcast: Phil Neville: Is it time to get behind England’s struggling coach?

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 18:14:00 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined on the women’s football podcast by journalist Anne Marie Batson, Sophie Downey, of Girls On the Ball and former England and Arsenal captain Faye White.

After England’s defeat to Germany on Saturday, is Phil Neville’s tenure under threat? As Spurs play host to Arsenal at White Hart Lane, what can we expect from the big showpiece this weekend? Who can win the Champions League? Also 750 pubs across UK will be showcasing a feast of women’s football on BT Sport this weekend as this podcast was brought to you from London’s Red Lioness in Liverpool Street.

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A decisive day in the title race?

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 18:46:39 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dave Kidd, and Tom Hopkinson discuss Liverpool's triumph over Man City and its implications for the title. They also talk about what Leicester's win over Arsenal means for the managers of both clubs and whether we will see a sacking during the coming International Break.

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Women's Football Podcast: England v Germany – who comes out on top?

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 06:00:00 GMT

Ahead of a big week for England, Mike Calvin is joined by Molly Hudson, Glenn Moore and Anne-Marie Batson. 90,000 fans are expected to descend on Wembley to watch the Lionesses take on Germany on Saturday, but is our nations team in the best form possible to make the most of the opportunity?

The four also discuss the upcoming Champions League draw, will anyone bring down favourites Lyon? And over in the Women’s Super League – how does it compare to similar leagues around the world and is enough being done to prevent and manage injuries amongst our top players?

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Liverpool or Manchester City - who's under more pressure?

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 16:59:28 GMT

Daniel Storey and Alyson Rudd join Mike Calvin to discuss this week's top of the table clash between Liverpool and Manchester City. Will Liverpool's relentlessness see them add another three points at Anfield to extend their title chances?

The three also talk about VAR, how long it will take to perfect and if it's really worth the wait. And, ahead of another week in Europe, how will our English teams fare? Chelsea are seemingly on a trajectory, but can Tottenham and Manchester Utd improve moods around their clubs.

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Is Emery's time up at Arsenal?

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 17:43:42 GMT

John Cross of the Daily Mirror and Tony Hodson of The Coaches' Voice join Mike Calvin to cast their eye over the weekend of football. Is it Granit Xhaka, the fans or Unai Emery, who should take the blame for what happened at Emirates Stadium on Saturday? On the opposite side of the spectrum, Chelsea are flying under Frank Lampard. Should Arsenal follow the Blues' example and appoint a legendary player at the helm?

Liverpool continue to impress, but with Mo Salah being substituted with an ankle injury, do the Reds have the squad to cover? Their title rivals Manchester City kept up the pace with Raheem Sterling continuing his fine form...form which our team believe could take him to the Ballon d'Or.

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Has Pochettino run his race at Tottenham?

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 16:21:23 GMT

Mike Calvin, Seb Stafford-Bloor and Adrian Clarke consider Mauricio Pochettino's future at Tottenham, reflect on more VAR drama in the Premier League and look ahead to this week's Champions League action.

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A return to the game for Jose Mourinho appears imminent but where?

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 17:06:22 GMT

Michael Calvin is joined by The Athletic's Dominic Fifield and football writer and broadcaster Daniel Storey.

What next for Jose Mourinho? Can Liverpool make it 18 wins in a row at Old Trafford on Sunday? Is playing for an unfashionable club a detriment to international opportunities? Have Leicester got enough strength in depth to mount a top six bid?

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Who is to blame for the demise at Manchester United?

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 15:36:39 GMT

Michael Calvin is joined by Darren Lewis from the Daily Mirror and Chief football writer at the Independent in Miguel Delaney.

The guys discuss the damage of defeats for Manchester United and Tottenham to Newcastle and Brighton respectively. Is the title race over? Is Sadio Mane regarded as one of the top three players in the world?

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Women's Football Podcast: With no competitive matches for Phil Neville between now and Euro 2021, will this affect England's chances?

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Brazil head to Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium on Saturday and a trip to Portugal awaits next Tuesday as England and manager Phil Neville look to get back to winning ways.

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The Champions League returns and can Spurs put their troubles behind them with a vital win over Bayern?

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 16:25:44 GMT

Michael Calvin is joined this week by debutant on the pod, Andy Dillon from The Sun and regular Adrian Clarke.

The guys look ahead to a busy Champions League schedule with all eyes on under-pressure Mauricio Pochettino as Spurs face Bayern.

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Pochettino, Solskjaer, Silva? Which Premier League manager will be next to go?

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 16:03:28 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tom Hopkinson and Daniel Storey reflect on damaging defeats for Tottenham, Manchester United and Everton and round up the rest of the Premier League action.

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Will City’s shaky defence cost them the league title?

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 17:43:51 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Seb Stafford-Bloor review Manchester City’s shock defeat at Norwich, Chelsea’s youthful resurgence and look ahead to the return of the Champions League.

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The Premier League returns with a managerial casualty

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 15:47:20 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tony Evans and Dominic Fifield discuss Javi Gracia’s sacking at Watford, Liverpool's title chances, whether Chelsea are strong enough, Wolves' European commitments and which teams are at risk of relegation.

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Liverpool & Man City - Head and shoulders apart?

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 15:26:44 GMT

Mike Calvin, Daniel Storey, and Tony Hodson discuss the gulf between the league leaders and the rest, England's best right-back, and whether English football can avoid another Bury.

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Women's Football Podcast: Is the WSL ready to capitalise on the success of the Women's World Cup?

Thu, 29 Aug 2019 05:00:31 GMT

Ahead of the most important season for women's football in living memory, Suzy Wrack, Rachel O'Sullivan and Kieran Theivam join Mike Calvin to consider whether Women's Super League clubs are ready to capitalise on the success of the Women's World Cup.

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Who has the better chance of survival? Lampard or Solskjaer?

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 15:26:55 GMT

Jonathan Northcroft and Alyson Rudd join Mike Calvin to discuss the future of Chelsea and Manchester United after both teams showed an act of faith by appointing club legends Frank Lampard and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to take the reins at Stamford Bridge and Old Trafford respectively, despite their little managerial experience.

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Women's Football Podcast: Analysing England's World Cup

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 05:00:31 GMT

Mike Calvin, Anne-Marie Batson, Molly Hudson and Rich Laverty debate whether England's World Cup performance should be considered a success or missed opportunity and discuss the evolution under Phil Neville.

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Is VAR destructive to the Premier League?

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 14:49:54 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dave Kidd and Seb Stafford-Bloor round up the second weekend of the Premier League season as Manchester City controversially drop points at home to Spurs as Liverpool go top.

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Can Man Utd stop the two-horse race?

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 15:43:07 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Darren Lewis and Dominic Fifield to discuss the opening weekend of the Premier League season. Man City and Liverpool began with dominant displays but did Tottenham and Manchester United show enough to reel them in? Should Chelsea fans expect more tough results and how did the newly promoted sides do?

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Premier League 19/20 Preview: Every team analysed

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 15:48:44 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Miguel Delaney dissect every single Premier League team in detail ahead of the new season and give their predictions for relegation, top four and surprise package.

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Which clubs look best placed for Premier League success?

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 16:43:50 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Tom Hopkinson dissect the latest pre-season news and transfer stories and give their verdict on the newly-promoted clubs.

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Newcastle and Arsenal in disarray as new season beckons

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 17:02:42 GMT

Mike Calvin, Daniel Storey and Seb Stafford-Bloor discuss the incompetent management at Newcastle United and Arsenal and reflect on all the Premier League transfer activity and latest rumours.

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How does women's football build on World Cup success?

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 17:18:08 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft, Rich Laverty and John Cross run the rule over England's World Cup campaign and discuss how the Lionesses can continue their success into the upcoming WSL season. They also examine the goings on at Manchester United, Chelsea and Leicester and discuss their hopes for the new Premier League campaign.

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Mixed Results for England and Listener Mailbag

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 16:44:35 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tony Evans, and Tom Hopkinson evaluate the performances of England at both the Nations League and the Women's World Cup before answering your questions ahead of a busy summer.

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Can England do it in France? A Women’s World Cup preview special

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 05:00:12 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Ann Marie Batson, Glenn Moore, and Rich Laverty as the Football Writers’ Podcast looks ahead to the 2019 Women’s World Cup which begins on Friday. The group assess England’s chances in France ahead of their opening game against Scotland. Standing in England’s way are a raft of challengers including France, Spain, Japan and USA and the group discuss who may be lifting the trophy come July.

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Can Klopp build a dynasty and can England bring Nations League glory home?

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 16:16:07 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke, and Seb Stafford-Bloor discuss the fall-out from the Champions League final and ask if Liverpool can build on a sixth European Cup triumph. The trio also debates England's chances in the Nations League finals and look ahead to a big summer for Chelsea, Arsenal and Spurs.

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Premier League Domination? A look ahead to European finals

Tue, 28 May 2019 16:57:17 GMT

Is this the start of Premier League domination of Europe? Jonathan Northcroft and Daniel Storey join Mike Calvin to discuss this week’s finals.

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End of season awards

Mon, 20 May 2019 15:57:33 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Dave Kidd and Tom Hopkinson to wrap up the domestic season, including Manchester City's emphatic FA Cup final win over Watford.

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Is Pep Guardiola Manchester City's answer to Sir Alex?

Mon, 13 May 2019 16:54:56 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Dom Fifield and John Cross to review the 2018/19 Premier League season and look ahead to the Emirates FA Cup final.

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English teams light up Europe ahead of title race deciders

Fri, 10 May 2019 14:31:22 GMT

Mike Calvin, Daniel Storey and Seb Stafford-Bloor reflect on the incredible Champions League semi-final turnarounds by Liverpool and Spurs and preview the final day of the Premier League title race.

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A huge week ahead

Mon, 06 May 2019 16:52:21 GMT

John Cross and Tony Evans join Mike Calvin to preview the four European semi final second legs.

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Women's Football Podcast: Can West Ham, a team created in six weeks, deny Manchester City the FA Cup?

Thu, 02 May 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Suzy Wrack, Katie Whyatt and Rich Laverty.

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Can Liverpool and Spurs grab first leg advantage?

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 17:23:59 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Jonathan Northcroft and Darren Lewis to preview Liverpool and Tottenham's UEFA Champions League semi-finals against Barcelona and Ajax.

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Will Man United deny City the Premier League title?

Tue, 23 Apr 2019 16:42:04 GMT

Mike Calvin, Daniel Storey and Seb Stafford-Bloor discuss Manchester United's sharp decline in form ahead of the potentially title-deciding Manchester derby and the race for the top four.

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Will three English teams advance to Champions League semis?

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 16:39:03 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Adrian Clarke and Dave Kidd to preview the second legs of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, exclusively live on BT Sport.

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Champions League quarter-final preview

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 16:58:29 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Dom Fifield look ahead to Tottenham v Man City, Man United v Barcelona and Liverpool v Porto, all live on BT Sport.

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Blues boo Sarri as Liverpool leave it late to dent Spurs’ top-four hopes

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 17:25:49 GMT

Mike Calvin, Alyson Rudd and John Cross dissect another blockbuster Premier League weekend and look ahead to the FA Cup semi-finals.

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How will Tottenham’s new stadium affect their season?

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 17:59:17 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Tom Hopkinson discuss Spurs’ new stadium, Zinedine Zidane’s transfer targets for Real Madrid, UEFA’s weekend plans for the Champions League and England’s continued progression under Gareth Southgate.

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Women's Football Podcast: Is this the year of greatest opportunity for women’s football?

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 17:57:19 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jacqui Oatley, Pippa Monique and Glenn Moore look ahead to the 2019 World Cup and discuss how clubs could do more to raise awareness of the women's game.

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Can Liverpool stop Man City’s quadruple dream?

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 18:37:10 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tony Evans and Seb Stafford-Bloor discuss the Premier League title race, the Champions League and Europa League draws, and England’s upcoming international qualifiers.

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Would a Champions League exit be good for Liverpool?

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 18:56:53 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Darren Lewis and Daniel Storey to preview the final batch of round of 16 games from the UEFA Champions League, including Bayern Munich v Liverpool exclusively live on BT Sport.

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Is Tottenham's season on verge of collapse?

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 17:18:54 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Sarah Shephard reflect on the North London and Merseyside derbies and preview this week's Champions League fixtures, exclusively live on BT Sport.

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Does Kepa's rebellion signal the end for Sarri at Chelsea?

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 17:13:26 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dominic Fifield and Dave Kidd reflect on Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga's bizarre refusal to come off in the League Cup final against Manchester City, Leicester's sacking of Claude Puel and the Premier League title race.

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Can Phil Neville's Lionesses emulate Southgate's summer of success?

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 06:00:42 GMT

Mike Calvin, Molly Hudson, Rich Laverty and Anne-Marie Batson discuss Arsenal vs Man City, opportunities for women's coaching, English football trying to catch Lyon and Wolfsburg and Phil Neville's England.

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Liverpool face season-defining week

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 17:43:53 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Adrian Clarke and Tom Hopkinson to preview the latest round of UEFA Champions League round of 16 ties, including Liverpool v Bayern Munich, which is exclusively live on BT Sport 2 and 4K UHD from 7pm on Tuesday.

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"Solskjær has changed everything at United"

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 16:40:41 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross and Daniel Storey to preview the UEFA Champions League round of 16, that kicks off with Manchester United v Paris Saint-Germain, exclusively live on BT Sport.

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Season-defining week for City? Should Everton sack Silva?

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 17:05:56 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Alyson Rudd break down all the key talking points from another blockbuster Premier League weekend as Man City cruise past Arsenal, the boos grow louder for Marco Silva and Neil Warnock keeps Cardiff's survival hopes alive.

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Quadruple for City and where next for Pochettino?

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 18:26:48 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Seb Stafford-Bloor and Tony Evans as they look back on the fourth round of the FA Cup. Tony Evans defends Mo Salah's run-ins with referees and fears that Tottenham's trophy win could be over before it's even begun. Seb Stafford-Bloor is impressed by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's incredible start but sees a big job at the Emirates as Arsenal struggle.

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Women’s football podcast: How can the FA Women’s Super League go to the next level?

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 06:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Suzy Wrack, Katie Whyatt and Glenn Moore discuss the biggest stories in the women’s game, the WSL title race and the impact of the sport in America.

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FA Cup fourth round preview

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 16:16:13 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Sarah Shephard assess the FA Cup fourth round ties, the battle for the Premier League top four and the potential January transfer deals.

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Is Solskjaer capable of being a long-term success at Man United?

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 17:26:03 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford-Bloor debate whether Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is a viable long-term option for Manchester United, the promising future of Declan Rice and Newcastle’s relegation fears.

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Man City crush Liverpool’s invincible dream to blow title race wide open

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 15:11:51 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dom Fifield and Daniel Storey dissect the Premier League title race in light of Man City’s essential victory over Liverpool, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s impact at Man United and the battle to avoid relegation.

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FA Cup third round preview

Mon, 31 Dec 2018 06:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and David Preece preview the FA Cup third round fixtures and predict where there could be potential upsets.

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Mid-season awards: Manager, signing, flop and unsung hero of 2018

Mon, 24 Dec 2018 06:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and David Preece discuss their manager, unsung herp, young player, signing and flop of the year and give their verdict on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s appointment at Manchester United.

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Women's Football Podcast: Can England win the World Cup?

Thu, 20 Dec 2018 06:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jacqui Oatley, Molly Hudson and Kieran Thievam dissect Phil Neville's impact as England Women's head coach and discuss the major challenges facing the international and domestic game.

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United face tricky PSG draw as Liverpool, City and Spurs await German opposition

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 15:06:32 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Dom Fifield reflect on the UEFA Champions League round of 16 draw as Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham discover their European fate.

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Liverpool go top as Chelsea crush City’s invincible dream

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 18:16:54 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Tony Evans reflect on a blockbuster Premier League weekend and look ahead to a crucial Champions League week for Liverpool and Tottenham.

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Arsenal inflict body blow on Spurs in fiery derby

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 16:14:29 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Jonathan Northcroft and David Preece as the panel look back at an eventful weekend of Premier League action and react to the news of Southampton boss Mark Hughes' sacking.

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Spurs and Liverpool turn on the style ahead of crunch week

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 17:28:27 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford-Bloor preview a huge week for both Tottenham and Liverpool in the Champions League and Premier League and round up the rest of the weekend action as Jose Mourinho’s Man United side fail to impress once again.

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England cap breakthrough year with sweet revenge over Croatia

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 17:16:24 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dave Kidd and Sarah Shephard discuss how far Gareth Southgate’s young England side can go after topping their UEFA Nations League group and look ahead to the weekend’s Premier League action.

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Man City’s on-field brilliance tarnished by off-field allegations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 18:21:05 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Tom Hopkinson look at the financial allegations against Manchester City following their dominant derby victory over Man United and break down the key talking points at both ends of the Premier League table.

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What are the challenges and opportunities facing the women’s game?

Thu, 08 Nov 2018 06:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Suzanne Wrack, Anna Kessel and England international footballer Claire Rafferty to discuss the state of women’s football in the UK.

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Is Euro Super League story a sign of things to come?

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 17:44:08 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Alyson Rudd and Daniel Storey debate the European Super League story and preview a big week of Champions League and Premier League.

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Football mourns the man who made Leicester’s impossible dream a reality

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 16:37:21 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Dominic Fifield pay their respects to the victims of the Leicester City helicopter tragedy and reflect on the weekend’s Premier League action.

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Juventus and Man Utd renew classic European rivalry

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 14:48:58 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross and Adrian Clarke to preview round three of the UEFA Champions League and look ahead to an exciting weekend of Premier League action.

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Do Mourinho and Hazard’s futures lie away from the Premier League?

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 18:03:08 GMT

Mike Calvin, David Preece and Seb Stafford-Bloor preview Jose Mourinho’s return to Stamford Bridge and discuss Chelsea’s squad revival under Maurizio Sarri and the contrasting ownership models in play at Wolves and Newcastle.

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Which Premier League managers’ jobs are at risk?

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 14:53:58 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Darren Lewis and Tom Hopkinson to analyse the state of play in the Premier League as we enter the second international break of the season.

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Has Jose Mourinho passed the point of no return at Manchester United?

Mon, 01 Oct 2018 19:28:24 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Daniel Storey and Tony Evans in this week’s football writers podcast.

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Can Sarri’s resurgent Chelsea halt the Liverpool juggernaut?

Mon, 24 Sep 2018 14:41:26 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Sarah Shephard discuss Chelsea and Liverpool’s impressive starts to the season ahead of their eagerly-anticipated clash at Stamford Bridge, live on BT Sport on Saturday, plus a round-up of the rest of the weekend’s Premier League action.

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Can Liverpool go one better in the Champions League?

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 15:43:24 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross and Dom Fifield to analyse the Premier League sides’ chances in the UEFA Champions League this season.

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How much work needs to be done on Southgate's England?

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 17:13:58 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Tony Evans and David Preece to discuss England’s first set of games following their World Cup adventure and to look ahead to the return of the Premier League.

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Is the Man City project good for English football?

Mon, 03 Sep 2018 14:15:42 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Dave Kidd and Seb Stafford-Bloor to debate Manchester City's place in English football, ten years since their takeover. The panel also look ahead to England’s opening UEFA Nations League fixture against Spain.

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Should Man United sack Jose Mourinho?

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 17:05:12 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Daniel Storey question Jose Mourinho’s future at Manchester United following the 3-0 home defeat to Tottenham and round up the rest of the Premier League action.

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Is it time to consider the post-Mourinho era at United?

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 15:09:34 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Alyson Rudd and Dom Fifield to analyse the malaise at Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United, following their 3-2 loss at Brighton.

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Pogba makes power play as Emery suffers debut defeat

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 16:37:20 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Seb Stafford-Bloor discuss the power struggle at Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea's conflicting fortunes under new management and the rest of the Premier League opening weekend action.

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2018-19 Premier League season preview

Wed, 08 Aug 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and David Preece preview the new Premier League season and give their predictions for the top four, likely relegation candidates and surprise package.

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Transfer window countdown: Who needs to buy?

Mon, 06 Aug 2018 16:47:09 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and David Preece round up the Premier League transfer window so far and assess which teams need to invest before Thursday’s deadline.

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What do England need to do to remain contenders for Euro 2020?

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 15:32:43 GMT

Mike Calvin, David Preece and Seb Stafford-Bloor debate where England need to improve after finishing fourth at the 2018 World Cup and pick their team of the tournament as France are crowned world champions.

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For England this is not the end, but the end of the beginning

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 15:30:52 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by David Preece and Daniel Storey to analyse England’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Croatia and the future for Gareth Southgate’s team. The panel also preview England’s third-place play-off against Belgium and the final between France and Croatia.

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Who will reach the World Cup final?

Mon, 09 Jul 2018 17:39:18 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Daniel Storey discuss England’s chances in their World Cup semi-final clash with Croatia and the Thierry Henry derby between Belgium and France.

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Sweden up next as England eye World Cup semi-finals

Thu, 05 Jul 2018 15:55:24 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tony Evans and Tom Hopkinson reflect on England’s overdue penalty shootout victory over Colombia and preview the World Cup quarter-finals.

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Colombia await as Belgium pip England to top spot

Fri, 29 Jun 2018 15:41:27 GMT

Mike Calvin, David Preece and Seb Stafford-Bloor dissect England’s 1-0 defeat to Belgium and preview the World Cup round-of-16 ties.

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England 6-1 Panama: Is football coming home?

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 14:52:22 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Tony Evans reflect on England’s 6-1 demolition of Panama and analyse the rest of the World Cup action.

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This week at the World Cup

Tue, 19 Jun 2018 15:20:47 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Daniel Storey and Tom Hopkinson to analyse England’s 2-1 victory over Tunisia in their World Cup opener.

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World Cup group-by-group preview

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and David Preece break down every single World Cup group, picking out their favourites, underdogs and over-rated nations ahead of the big kick-off in Russia.

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What should we expect from England at the World Cup?

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 18:19:03 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and David Preece give their thoughts on Gareth Southgate and his 23-man England squad ahead of the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

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Kiev catastrophe for Karius as Bale brilliance downs Liverpool

Tue, 29 May 2018 15:49:33 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Alyson Rudd review the Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid, give their thoughts on the Raheem Sterling tattoo story and answer your questions.

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Champions League final special

Mon, 21 May 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Jonathan Northcroft and Tony Evans to preview this Saturday’s UEFA Champions League final between Real Madrid and Liverpool. BT Sport is the only place to watch the game, with coverage starting from 6pm on BT Sport 2 and 4K UHD.

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Mourinho vs. Conte: Who will salvage their season with FA Cup glory?

Mon, 14 May 2018 16:03:10 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Adrian Clarke discuss Manchester United and Chelsea’s seasons ahead of the FA Cup final, Gareth Southgate’s England squad selection for the World Cup and the upcoming Premier League managerial merry-go-round.

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Who should be named Manager of the Season?

Tue, 08 May 2018 14:25:45 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tom Hopkinson and Dom Fifield debate which managers have most impressed this season and discuss the evolution of Premier League management.

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Liverpool target the Italian job as Saints step up survival bid

Mon, 30 Apr 2018 16:06:36 GMT

Mike Calvin, David Preece and Daniel Storey preview Liverpool’s Champions League semi-final second leg with Roma, exclusively live on BT Sport and review the weekend’s Premier League action as the relegation battle intensifies.

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Who should replace Arsene Wenger as Arsenal manager?

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 14:57:54 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Dave Kidd reflect on the PFA awards, debate who should replace Arsene Wenger at Arsenal and look ahead to the Champions League semi-finals, exclusively live on BT Sport.

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Man City worthy champions as Burnley close the gap on Arsenal

Mon, 16 Apr 2018 16:35:08 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Tony Evans hail Pep Guardiola’s magnificent Man City side and debate whether anyone can catch them next year. Plus the pod give their thoughts on the manager of the season and preview the FA Cup semi-finals.

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Are City set for another nightmare week?

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 14:37:08 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross and Adrian Clarke to analyse another crucial week for Manchester City as they look to complete an improbable comeback against Liverpool to qualify for the UEFA Champions League semi-finals. The panel also debate the display of Manchester United in denying their city rivals an early Premier League title party and look at Arsenal’s European chances.

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Can Liverpool and Man United stop treble-chasing City?

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 15:20:56 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dom Fifield and Seb Stafford-Bloor preview the mouth-watering Champions League clash between Liverpool and Man City which is live on BT Sport, plus a look at Arsenal’s Europa League clash, Tottenham’s win over Chelsea and the battle at the bottom of the Premier League.

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Who will be relegated from the Premier League?

Mon, 26 Mar 2018 15:40:40 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dave Kidd and David Preece assess the survival chances of the Premier League’s bottom half clubs, discuss Jose Mourinho’s future at Man United and give their verdict on Gareth Southgate’s England tenure to date.

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Has Jose Mourinho lost his mojo?

Mon, 19 Mar 2018 18:08:57 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tony Evans and Alyson Rudd dissect Jose Mourinho’s recent behaviour, debate whether Mo Salah should be named the PFA Player of the Year and give their thoughts on Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the upcoming friendlies with Italy and the Netherlands.

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Pogba isn’t a footballer, he’s a content creator for social media

Mon, 12 Mar 2018 16:36:51 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Jonathan Northcroft and Darren Lewis to preview Manchester United and Chelsea’s Champions League round of 16 games and the weekend’s FA Cup quarter-final action.

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Should Wenger take the blame for Arsenal’s failures?

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 15:49:16 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Tom Hopkinson and Daniel Storey to debate the dire situation at Arsenal and the future of their beleaguered manager, Arsene Wenger.

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No way back for Wenger as Man City humiliate Arsenal at Wembley

Mon, 26 Feb 2018 17:08:30 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Dom Fifield debate Arsene Wenger’s future after Arsenal’s embarrassing League Cup final defeat to Man City and look at the key stories at both ends of the Premier League table as Man United beat Chelsea while West Brom slip seven points from safety.

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Can Chelsea and Man Utd maintain English standards in Europe?

Mon, 19 Feb 2018 16:50:03 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Seb Stafford-Bloor round up the FA Cup fifth round action, debate West Brom’s survival hopes and look ahead to the Chelsea v Barcelona and Sevilla v Manchester United ties, exclusively live on BT Sport.

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Champions League special

Mon, 12 Feb 2018 15:45:54 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Tony Evans and David Preece to preview the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, which returns exclusively on BT Sport this week.

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What is the key to Premier League success in the modern game?

Mon, 05 Feb 2018 16:06:11 GMT

Joey Barton joins Mike Calvin and Jonathan Northcroft on the 100th edition of the Football Writers Podcast to offer a philosophical insight into what it takes to be a strong leader and successful manager within the intense climate of Premier League football.

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Flawed Klopp has no plan B

Mon, 29 Jan 2018 18:00:26 GMT

Mike Calvin, David Walker and Adrian Clarke discuss Klopp's tinkering, whether the Spurs board are ambitious enough, Man Utd's signing of Alexis Sanchez and why Ross Barkley will be gutted at Antonio Conte's comments.

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Silva sacked by Watford as Everton fans turn on Allardyce

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 18:48:19 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Alyson Rudd reflect on the latest Premier League sacking, dissect the biggest transfer rumours dominating the back pages and look ahead to the FA Cup fourth round ties this weekend.

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Liverpool smash City’s unbeaten run as Arsenal reach crisis mode again

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 16:37:51 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dom Fifield and Daniel Storey reflect on another blockbuster Premier League weekend as Liverpool prove Man City are far from invincible, Arsenal self-implode at Bournemouth and Chelsea blank again.

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FA Cup magic for Forest as Coutinho heads to Barcelona

Mon, 08 Jan 2018 18:47:34 GMT

Mike Calvin, Dave Kidd and Tom Hopkinson reflect on Philippe Coutinho’s record-breaking transfer to Barcelona, Arsenal’s shock FA Cup exit to Nottingham Forest and Stoke’s sacking of Mark Hughes. Plus your questions about BT Sport’s ‘No Hunger In Paradise’ documentary.

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Jose Mourinho is not finished yet

Tue, 02 Jan 2018 15:14:19 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Darren Lewis and Tony Evans to analyse Manchester United under Jose Mourinho and the other big headlines from the Premier League and FA Cup.

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Mid-season review: The stars and flops of the season so far

Wed, 27 Dec 2017 06:30:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Adrian Clarke reflect on the Premier League season so far, picking out their star players, managers, performances and biggest flops, plus their predictions for the top four and the bottom three.

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No Hunger in Paradise

Fri, 22 Dec 2017 06:30:00 GMT

Award-winning writer Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross, David Preece, Adrian Clarke and Jonathan Northcroft to discuss his upcoming BT Sport film ‘No Hunger In Paradise’ which explores what it takes to make it as a professional footballer and the pitfalls, pressures and casualties along the way. Watch ‘No Hunger in Paradise’ on BT Sport 2, Sunday January 7th at 6.30pm.

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Can Man City emulate the Arsenal Invincibles?

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 16:49:18 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and David Preece dissect another Manchester City masterclass, praise Burnley’s fairytale season under Sean Dyche and speculate which players could be on the move in January.

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Mourinho ‘embarrassed’ as Man City march 11 points clear

Mon, 11 Dec 2017 15:53:45 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Dom Fifield dissect Man City’s record-breaking derby victory and give their thoughts on the Champions League round-of-16 draw.

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Jose v Pep: Can United halt the Manchester City juggernaut?

Mon, 04 Dec 2017 16:31:47 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Alyson Rudd round up another blockbuster Premier League weekend and look ahead to the Manchester and Merseyside derbies.

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All eyes on Emirates as Arsenal and United gear up for key match

Tue, 28 Nov 2017 16:38:03 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Tony Evans and David Preece to preview Arsenal’s huge Premier League clash with Manchester United, exclusively live on BT Sport 1 and 4K UHD form 5pm.

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Liverpool and Chelsea prepare for 'pivotal' Anfield clash

Mon, 20 Nov 2017 12:22:26 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross and Tom Hopkinson to preview Saturday’s huge Premier League game between Liverpool and Chelsea, exclusively live on BT Sport 1 and 4K UHD from 5pm.

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Pochettino's Spurs have to deliver in North London derby

Mon, 13 Nov 2017 16:42:07 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by David Walker and Adrian Clarke to preview the return of the Premier League including Arsenal’s derby game against Tottenham and Manchester United v Newcastle, which is exclusively live on BT Sport

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Moyes and Allardyce prepare to get back on the managerial roundabout

Mon, 06 Nov 2017 16:42:02 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Tony Evans and David Preece to analyse the managerial comings and goings at West Ham United and Everton.

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‘Dull’ United have lost their mojo

Mon, 30 Oct 2017 17:19:53 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Dave Kidd discuss the biggest talking points from the Premier League weekend and look ahead to the midweek Champions League fixtures, exclusively live on BT Sport.

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Who should replace sacked Ronald Koeman at Everton?

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 15:38:54 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Jonathan Northcroft and David Preece to analyse the end of Ronald Koeman’s reign at Everton and the runners and riders for the fresh vacancy at Goodison Park.

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Can anyone stop the Man City juggernaut?

Mon, 16 Oct 2017 16:49:27 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Alyson Rudd review Man City’s free-scoring, Jose Mourinho’s bus-parking and Crystal Palace’s sensational win over the champions and look ahead to another mouth-watering Champions League schedule, exclusively live on BT Sport.

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Is Liverpool v United the biggest game in English football?

Mon, 09 Oct 2017 15:45:42 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Tony Evans and Tom Collomosse to preview the weekend’s Premier League action including Liverpool v Manchester United.

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Is it time for Ronald Koeman to leave Everton?

Mon, 02 Oct 2017 14:03:09 GMT

Mike Calvin, David Walker and Adrian Clarke review another blockbuster Premier League weekend and speculate whether Ronald Koeman and Slaven Bilic will survive the international break.

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Defining week ahead for Chelsea as Atletico and Man City await

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 15:23:52 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tom Hopkinson and Dom Fifield preview this week’s Champions League fixtures and the mouthwatering weekend clash between Chelsea and Manchester City, all exclusively live on BT Sport.

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Is the Premier League title destined for Manchester?

Mon, 18 Sep 2017 15:34:22 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and David Preece dissect a significant Premier League weekend as the Manchester duo continue their relentless pursuit of the title and debate whether Arsenal are genuine top four contenders following a disciplined display at Chelsea and whether Liverpool fans are right to criticise Jurgen Klopp.

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Can Spurs advance from Champions League group of death?

Mon, 11 Sep 2017 15:34:46 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Jonathan Northcroft of The Sunday Times and Tony Evans of the London Evening Standard to preview the group stages of the Champions League.

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Arsenal players have lost faith in Wenger

Mon, 04 Sep 2017 14:35:11 GMT

Arsene Wenger 'past his sell-by date' and Sanchez a 'big problem' for the Gunners. Darren Lewis of the Daily Mirror and The Independent's Miguel Delaney join host Mike Calvin to discuss the week's big talking points.

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Groundhog day at Arsenal as the transfer deadline looms

Tue, 29 Aug 2017 15:52:58 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and David Walker dissect Arsenal’s humiliation at Anfield, the futures of Slaven Bilic and Frank De Boer, and speculate what the final days of the transfer window will bring.

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Will Wembley ruin Spurs' season?

Mon, 21 Aug 2017 15:32:58 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by The Guardian's Dominic Fifield and The Sunday Times' Jonathan Northcroft to review the latest Premier League action including Tottenham's continuing Wembley Stadium woes, Manchester United's impressive start to the season and Mesut Ozil's reluctance to take centre stage at Arsenal. The panel also discuss whether England manager Gareth Southgate should pick Wayne Rooney and Joe Hart before pondering what deals will be done before the transfer deadline.

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Huddersfield enjoy dream debut as champions Chelsea crumble to Burnley

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 14:49:05 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Tom Hopkinson dissect a blockbuster start to the new Premier League season, as well as the future of Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho, Tottenham's unsustainable wage structure and the upcoming Champions League playoff first legs.

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Who is going to win the Premier League?

Mon, 07 Aug 2017 17:56:16 GMT

Host Mike Calvin is joined by the Daily Mirror's Darren Lewis and The Sun's Dave Kidd to preview the new Premier League season. Who will win the title? Who will make the top four? Who is going to be relegated? The panel cast their eye over every team in the league and put on their tin helmets before making their predictions for the battle ahead.

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Which manager is under the most pressure?

Mon, 31 Jul 2017 16:09:57 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by the Daily Mirror's David Walker and PremierLeague.com's Adrian Clarke to discuss the latest football stories and ponder the incredible pressure on the country's leading managers as the new season approaches.

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Is Neymar about to join PSG and become the first £200m footballer?

Mon, 24 Jul 2017 16:01:09 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tony Evans and Tom Hopkinson dissect the biggest transfer story of the summer as PSG ramp up their pursuit of Neymar and assess all the rumours circulating the Premier League transfer mill.

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Premier League clubs are being held to ransom in the transfer market

Mon, 17 Jul 2017 16:18:56 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Dom Fifield dissect the biggest transfer stories from around Europe and discuss the lack of faith in club’s academies and the emergence of feeder clubs.

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Rooney returns home as Man Utd win Lukaku race

Mon, 10 Jul 2017 15:42:19 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and David Walker discuss the rise of the super-agent in light of Romelu Lukaku’s big money move to Manchester United, Wayne Rooney’s return to Goodison Park and all of the other big transfer stories in the Premier League.

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Transfer Special – Part Two

Tue, 27 Jun 2017 16:27:04 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Adrian Clarke dissect the biggest transfer stories dominating the back pages and discuss the appointments of Frank de Boer and Mauricio Pellegrino at Crystal Palace and Southampton respectively.

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Transfer Special – Part One

Tue, 13 Jun 2017 18:23:35 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Tony Evans and Tom Hopkinson to look at the biggest transfer gossip of the summer as the Premier League’s giants prepare to flex their financial muscle.

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Has Southgate grown into the England job?

Mon, 05 Jun 2017 15:10:52 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross (Mirror) and Dom Fifield (Guardian) to look at Gareth Southgate's tenure as England manager ahead of the Three Lions' return to action against Scotland in World Cup qualifying.

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Will Real Madrid retain the Champions League?

Tue, 30 May 2017 17:21:14 GMT

Mike Calvin, Miguel Delaney and Adrian Clarke preview the Champions League final between Juventus and Real Madrid and reflect on Arsenal’s FA Cup win over Chelsea and Man United’s Europa League triumph.

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Arsenal bid farewell to Champions League football as Terry bows out at the Bridge

Mon, 22 May 2017 17:11:09 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Tony Evans reflect on another blockbuster Premier League season and look ahead to the Europa League and FA Cup finals.

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Chelsea clinch title as Man City and Liverpool close in on top four

Mon, 15 May 2017 16:11:07 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Dave Kidd dissect the penultimate Premier League weekend of the season as Chelsea wrap up the title, Tottenham wave goodbye to White Hart Lane, Hull City suffer relegation and Arsenal finally look to miss out on the top four.

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Spurs ‘bottle it’ at West Ham as Wenger finally beats Mourinho

Mon, 08 May 2017 16:18:03 GMT

Mike Calvin, John Cross and Alyson Rudd reflect on Spurs’ shock defeat as West Ham, Arsene Wenger’s first league win over Jose Mourinho and debate why English clubs are struggling to compete in the Champions League ahead of the semi-final second legs, live on BT Sport.

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Has Mourinho gone too far with Luke Shaw?

Tue, 02 May 2017 15:34:24 GMT

Mike Calvin talks to journalists Dominic Fifield and David Walker about Jose Mourinho’s latest gripes, the use of video refs for diving and Tottenham’s defeat of Arsenal.

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Missed opportunities for Spurs and City as Chelsea and Arsenal book FA Cup final spot

Mon, 24 Apr 2017 16:26:30 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tom Hopkinson and Tony Evans dissect Arsenal and Chelsea’s FA Cup semi-final triumphs, the race for the Premier League top four and the relegation dogfight as Middlesbrough and Sunderland slip closer to relegation.

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It's game on in the title race

Tue, 18 Apr 2017 18:52:43 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by journalists John Cross and Jonathan Norcroft, who say Saturday's FA Cup semi-final between Chelsea and Tottenham could be pivotal.

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United should give Zlatan a two-year contract

Mon, 10 Apr 2017 17:32:56 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by the Daily Mirror's Darren Lewis and Miguel Delaney of The Independent, who discuss the importance of Ibrahimovic to Man Utd and whether Leicester can pull off another miracle in the Champions League.

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Chelsea 'can't lose title from here'

Tue, 04 Apr 2017 15:46:59 GMT

Journalists Adrian Clarke and Tom Hopkinson join Mike Calvin to discuss whether Blues fans should be worried, and if Alexis Sanchez is damaging team spirit at Arsenal.

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Man City primed for top-four battle as Arsenal and Chelsea await

Mon, 27 Mar 2017 15:23:47 GMT

Mike Calvin, Jonathan Northcroft and Dom Fifield assess Man City’s progress under Pep Guardiola ahead of two huge Premier League fixtures at Arsenal and Chelsea, Liverpool’s Merseyside derby date with in-form Everton and how England are adapting to life under Gareth Southgate.

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Arsenal in crisis as Chelsea march on towards the title

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 16:22:21 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tony Evans and David Walker dissect Arsene Wenger’s lowest point as Arsenal manager, the Premier League title and relegation races, and Gareth Southgate’s latest England squad selection ahead of the international break.

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Can City win the Champions League this season?

Mon, 13 Mar 2017 17:25:11 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross (Mirror) and Miguel Delaney (Independent) to discuss all the goings on in this year’s Champions League, including Barca’s incredible comeback last week and whether City can hold on to their 2 goal lead in Monaco, as well as looking ahead to all this weekend’s Premier League action.

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Is Sanchez on the way out of Arsenal?

Mon, 06 Mar 2017 18:35:55 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Adrian Clarke assess the latest setback at Arsenal as they drop Alexis Sanchez and drop out of the top four, while the pod also dissect the other big stories from the Premier League and look ahead to the next round of Champions League and Europa League fixtures.

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Were Leicester right to sack Ranieri?

Mon, 27 Feb 2017 18:52:02 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Dominic Fifield and Tom Hopkinson to discuss the sacking of Claudio Ranieri, Manchester United’s League Cup final win over Southampton and Liverpool’s colossal ‘top-four’ clash with Arsenal, live on BT Sport on Saturday.

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Will Mourinho pick up his first trophy as United boss?

Mon, 20 Feb 2017 17:00:14 GMT

John Cross and Jonathan Northcroft join Mike Calvin to preview the week's action, including the EFL Cup final between Manchester United and Southampton at Wembley. The trio also review a superb week of FA Cup fifth round action and look ahead to the latest round of 16 Champions League fixtures.

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Will Arsenal finally beat Bayern?

Mon, 13 Feb 2017 19:45:00 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by ESPN’s Tony Evans and Tom Collomosse of the Evening Standard to discuss Arsenal’s chances against Bayern Munich in the Champions League and what lies ahead for Arsene Wenger regardless of the result. The team also look ahead to Man Utd and Spurs in the Europa League and all the weekend’s FA Cup action.

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Is it time for Wenger to go?

Mon, 06 Feb 2017 18:47:30 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Miguel Delaney and Darren Lewis to dissect a rollercoaster Premier League weekend, including Arsenal's familiar February crumble, Chelsea's relentless pursuit of the title, the impact of Gabriel Jesus and the fight to avoid relegation.

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Is this the week Chelsea wrap up the title?

Mon, 30 Jan 2017 17:38:21 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by David Walker and Adrian Clarke to preview a huge week in the Premier League title race as Chelsea face Liverpool and Arsenal, plus a look at the latest January transfer dealings and the future of Wayne Rooney.

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Chelsea’s title? Is it all over for Liverpool?

Mon, 23 Jan 2017 18:10:24 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Tony Evans and Jonathan Northcroft to discuss another dramatic Premier League weekend at both ends of the table as Liverpool and Tottenham lose ground to Chelsea in the title race and Swansea boost their survival hopes. Plus a look ahead to the League Cup semi-finals and the FA Cup fourth round.

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Man City to miss out on the top four?

Mon, 16 Jan 2017 17:34:23 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross (Mirror) and Dominic Fifield (Guardian) to discuss Man City’s woeful display at Goodison Park, player loyalty, the lure of the Chinese Super League, and whether Tottenham and Liverpool can challenge Chelsea for the Premier League title.

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United v Liverpool: Chelsea's two closest challengers for the title?

Mon, 09 Jan 2017 18:35:17 GMT

Adrian Clarke (Arsenal TV) and Tom Hopkinson (Mirror) join Mike Calvin to discuss Mourinho's meeting with Klopp this Sunday and whether these two sides are the most likely to challenge Chelsea for the title - as well as all other goings on at the top and bottom of the Premier League.

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Will Man Utd win the FA Cup again?

Mon, 02 Jan 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Jonathan Northcroft (Times) and Tony Evans (Standard) join Mike Calvin to discuss the big games from the FA Cup third round. Will Mourinho focus on defending it for United? Is it Liverpool’s year with Klopp at the helm, or is it a season for the minnows?

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Premier League mid-season review

Mon, 26 Dec 2016 13:29:29 GMT

The Football Writers team have a look at the season so far, assessing how all sides in the Premier League have performed up until Christmas, who’s over-performing, which managers are in trouble and who needs what in January.

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Have Arsenal’s wheels fallen off sooner than usual?

Mon, 19 Dec 2016 16:35:45 GMT

Jonathan Northcroft (Telegraph) and Tony Evans (Evening Standard) join Mike Calvin to discuss Arsenal’s recent dip in form, Chelsea’s unbeaten run and all other goings on at the top and bottom of the Premier League table

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Is this Arsenal’s year to beat Bayern?

Mon, 12 Dec 2016 19:22:10 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Dom Fifield (Guardian) and Tom Collomosse (Standard) to discuss the Champions League and Europa League draws and what lies ahead for the 5 English teams still in Europe, as well as analysis of last weekend’s football and a look ahead to an action packed week with 20 Premier League matches.

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Chelsea collapse shows Guardiola’s Man City are far from flawless

Mon, 05 Dec 2016 18:32:17 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by John Cross and Adrian Clarke to round up the biggest football stories from the weekend, including Man City’s collapse against Chelsea, Man United’s inability to close out matches, Leicester’s relegation fears and whether Liverpool’s defence is strong enough to make them genuine title challengers.

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Are Chelsea now title favourites?

Mon, 28 Nov 2016 18:30:42 GMT

Miguel Delaney (Sunday Independent) and Darren Lewis (Daily Mirror) join Mike Calvin to discuss Chelsea’s fantastic form under Conte, whether Man City and Liverpool are their only title rivals and more issues for Mourinho and Man Utd – with live questions from users on the BT Sport Facebook page.

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Can Spurs bury memories of Battle of Stamford Bridge?

Tue, 22 Nov 2016 15:24:18 GMT

Martin Lipton (Sun) and Jim Holden (Sunday Express) join Mike Calvin to discuss Tottenham’s return to Stamford Bridge, following the capitulation in May that ended their Premier League title bid.

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Mourinho vs Wenger – Who comes out on top?

Mon, 14 Nov 2016 16:29:51 GMT

Jonathan Northcroft (Sunday Times) and Tom Hopkinson (The People) join Mike Calvin to discuss the animosity between Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger and whose team is faring better going into their match this weekend. The panel also discuss Conte’s impressive start to life at Chelsea, and what Liverpool need to bring in in January.

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England v Scotland: Career defining for both managers?

Mon, 07 Nov 2016 17:32:10 GMT

Tony Evans (Evening Standard) and Adrian Clarke (PremerLeague.com) join Mike Calvin to discuss England’s match against Scotland, the futures of both teams’ managers and all the goings on at both ends of the Premier League.

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Is this the biggest ever North London derby?

Mon, 31 Oct 2016 16:40:28 GMT

Tom Hopkinson (The People) and David Walker (Daily Mirror) join Mike Calvin to discuss wherever this week’s North London derby will showcase this season’s champions, a massive game for City against Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday, Mourinho’s struggles at United and a potential transfer for Wayne Rooney to Everton.

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Is the Mourinho era over?

Mon, 24 Oct 2016 17:04:25 GMT

Dom Fifield (Guardian) and Darren Lewis (Mirror) join Mike Calvin to discuss Mourinho’s vast issues at Manchester United, problems for Pep at City and recent resurgences for Chelsea and Liverpool.

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Can Pep take down Barcelona?

Mon, 17 Oct 2016 13:20:55 GMT

John Cross and Adrian Clarke join Mike Calvin to discuss a huge match for City and Pep in the Champions League, Walcott’s new-found form at Arsenal, and Spurs’ chances of winning the title.

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Will Klopp’s Liverpool maintain their title challenge for the whole season?

Mon, 10 Oct 2016 15:10:25 GMT

Jonathan Northcroft and Tony Evans join Mike Calvin to discuss Klopp’s new training regime at Liverpool, what the future holds for Danny Sturridge and Jordan Henderson and the crisis unfolding around Wayne Rooney and Man Utd. Plus all the biggest talking points ahead of this weekend’s Premier League action.

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Is it important that England stick with an English manager?

Mon, 03 Oct 2016 15:23:45 GMT

Darren Lewis and Tom Collomosse join Mike Calvin to discuss Gareth Southgate and the future of the England national team – as well as all the Premier League action from the weekend, including Mourinho’s outdated tactics, the Pogba problem and Pochettino’s growing dynasty at Tottenham.

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Are Manchester City approaching the perfect squad?

Mon, 26 Sep 2016 15:59:38 GMT

Dom Fifield and Tom Hopkinson join Mike Calvin to discuss what the future holds for Wayne Rooney, City’s 10/10 start under Pep and Chelsea’s defensive and midfield struggles.

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Is it time for Mourinho to drop Rooney?

Mon, 19 Sep 2016 14:51:21 GMT

Miguel Delaney and John Cross join Mike Calvin to discuss Manchester United’s recent downturn in form under Jose Mourinho, whether Liverpool are genuine title contenders and BT Sport’s live televised Premier League game this weekend between London rivals Arsenal and Chelsea.

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Are any British clubs good enough to win Champions League this year?

Mon, 12 Sep 2016 15:44:04 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by Jim Holden of the Daily Express and Tony Evans from the evening Standard to discuss Champions League and Europe League games for Britain’s top clubs this week and look ahead to the weekend’s Premier League action.

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The Manchester Derby: Who is in better shape going in?

Mon, 05 Sep 2016 14:19:49 GMT

The Sunday Mirror's Tom Hopkinson and Adrian Clarke of Arsenal TV join Mike Calvin to discuss which of the Manchester teams have had better starts to the season, Chelsea's resurgence under Conte and how England faired in their first match under Sam Allardyce.

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Has Big Sam made a Rash decision?

Tue, 30 Aug 2016 13:42:15 GMT

Daily Mirror pair David Walker and Darren Lewis discuss the ins and outs of Sam Allardyce's first England squad, including the omission of Marcus Rashford and Ross Barkley.

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Is Ibrahimovic the new Cantona?

Mon, 22 Aug 2016 14:18:08 GMT

The Daily Mirror’s David Walker and Darren Lewis join host Mike Calvin to review the latest Premier League action including the eye-catching form of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the future for Manchester City keeper Joe Hart and the latest controversy surrounding Chelsea striker Diego Costa.

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Is Wenger in danger of destroying his legacy?

Mon, 15 Aug 2016 15:35:10 GMT

The Daily Mirror’s chief football writer John Cross and Sunday Independent journalist Miguel Delaney join host Mike Calvin to chew over the opening weekend of the Premier League season.

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Premier League 2016/17 season preview: Part four

Mon, 08 Aug 2016 15:24:32 GMT

Evening Standard journalist Tony Evans and Arsenal TV's Adrian Clarke join host Mike Calvin to predict the ups and downs from the forthcoming Premier League season.

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Premier League 2016/17 season preview: Part three

Mon, 01 Aug 2016 15:22:28 GMT

Mike Calvin, Adrian Clarke and Darren Lewis assess the chances of Manchester United, Middlesbrough, Southampton, Stoke City and Sunderland ahead of the coming season and debate whether Paul Pogba is worth his £100m price tag.

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Premier League 2016/17 season preview: Part two

Mon, 25 Jul 2016 13:44:45 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tom Hopkinson and Tony Evans assess the chances of Everton, Hull City, Leicester City, Liverpool and Manchester City ahead of the coming season and discuss the appointment of Sam Allardyce as England manager.

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Premier League 2016/17 season preview: Part one

Mon, 18 Jul 2016 05:01:00 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tony Evans and Adrian Clarke assess the chances of Arsenal, Bournemouth, Burnley, Chelsea and Crystal Palace ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.

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Has Ronaldo become one of the all-time greats?

Mon, 11 Jul 2016 16:26:50 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by football writers Tony Evans and Adrian Clarke to discuss all the fallout from Portugal’s Euro 2016 victory, who should be the new England manager, and take a look at the new signings and new managers joining the Premier League next season.

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Fearless Wales can see off Portugal

Mon, 04 Jul 2016 15:21:26 GMT

Sun journalist Martin Lipton and Tom Hopkinson from The Sunday People join host Mike Calvin to discuss England's failure and Wales' brilliance at Euro 2016. Plus Pep v Mourinho - best of enemies...

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‘Pathetic’ England deserved Euro 2016 humiliation

Tue, 28 Jun 2016 15:51:02 GMT

Mike Calvin, Tony Evans and David Walker dissect England’s embarrassing Euro 2016 exit to Iceland and speculate who could replace Roy Hodgson.

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Have England showed progress at Euro 2016?

Tue, 21 Jun 2016 15:58:21 GMT

Mike Calvin, Darren Lewis and Tom Hopkinson reflect on England’s group stage campaign and debate Roy Hodgson’s tactics, as well as taking a wider look at some of the other home nations and tournament favourites.

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Did Roy’s conservatism cost England?

Mon, 13 Jun 2016 15:23:30 GMT

Our top football journalists discuss England and Wales’ chances at the Euros, Rooney’s new position and the security issues marring the tournament. Featuring Tony Evans of the Evening Standard and Arsenal TV’s Adrian Clarke.

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Euro 2016 preview

Mon, 06 Jun 2016 15:56:36 GMT

The European Championships are nearly upon us with Roy Hodgson’s Three Lions kicking off against Russia on Saturday. Journalist Mike Calvin is joined by David Walker of the Daily Mirror and The Sunday People’s Tom Hopkinson to preview the tournament.

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What will success at Euro 2016 look like for England?

Tue, 31 May 2016 19:09:49 GMT

Journalist Mike Calvin debates England’s chances at Euro 2016 with Darren Lewis of the Daily Mirror and The Sun’s Martin Lipton. The trio also take a look at the other major runners and riders ahead of the European Championships.

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Will Mourinho and Ibrahimovic rescue United?

Mon, 23 May 2016 16:56:36 GMT

Host Mike Calvin is joined by the Daily Mirror's John Cross and The Guardian's Dom Fifield to debate the expected exit of Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho's likely return to the Premier League stage and his rivalry with new Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola. The trio also discuss England's Euro 2016 preparations and the Champions League Final showdown between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.

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Can Liverpool save their season with Europa League win?

Mon, 16 May 2016 17:11:04 GMT

Tony Evans of the Standard and Arsenal TV’s Adrian Clarke join Mike Calvin to discuss Liverpool’s chances in the Europa League final and whether we’ll see the real Klopp after he’s had a chance to sign his own players. The team also discuss the England squad for the Euros, the FA Cup final and a bizarre last day of the football season for Manchester United and Tottenham.

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Hillsborough - we have the truth but do we have justice?

Mon, 09 May 2016 15:41:40 GMT

Host Mike Calvin is joined by the Evening Standard's Tony Evans to reflect on the recent ruling that the 96 victims of the 1989 Hillsborough stadium disaster were unlawfully killed while The People's Tom Hopkinson is also on hand to discuss 'unsinkable' Sam Allardyce's quest to keep Sunderland in the Premier League, the battle at the top to secure Champions League football next season and the potential manager merry-go-round.

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Leicester City: The greatest story ever told?

Tue, 03 May 2016 17:09:15 GMT

Daily Mirror writers Darren Lewis and David Walker join Mike Calvin to discuss whether Sturridge will leave Liverpool if he doesn’t start against Villarreal, if Manchester City have been going backwards, Championship winning Leicester’s global appeal and their unsung heroes behind the scenes.

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Will winning the FA Cup save Louis van Gaal?

Mon, 25 Apr 2016 15:38:05 GMT

The Sun’s Martin Lipton and John Cross of the Daily Mirror join Mike Calvin to discuss the issues at Manchester United, a potential FA Cup fairy-tale for Pardew and Palace and huge European nights for Liverpool and Man City.

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Has Rashford saved big-spending Van Gaal?

Mon, 18 Apr 2016 16:20:10 GMT

Guardian journalist Dom Fifield and Tom Hopkinson from The Sunday People join host Mike Calvin to discuss LVG's 'lucky break', the battle at the bottom and their Player of the Year picks.

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Will Leicester falter down the stretch like Spieth?

Mon, 11 Apr 2016 16:28:32 GMT

Host Mike Calvin is joined by Arsenal TV's Adrian Clarke and the Sunday Express' Jim Holden to analyse the latest developments in the Premier League title race and preview West Ham's FA Cup replay against Manchester United, Manchester City's Champions League showdown with Paris Saint-Germain and next weekend's relegation showdown between Norwich and Sunderland.

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Is Conte 'Mourinho without the brains or the charm'?

Tue, 05 Apr 2016 15:06:43 GMT

Evening Standard columnist Tony Evans and Daily Mirror journalist Dave Kidd join host Mike Calvin to question the appointment of Antonio Conte at Chelsea, plus whether Zlatan is worth £600,000 a week and Jurgen Klopp's return to Dortmund.

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Is there room for Rooney at the Euros?

Tue, 29 Mar 2016 15:09:09 GMT

Mike Calvin is joined by the Daily Mirror’s Darren Lewis and David Walker to discuss England’s chances in France this summer, Spurs’ fantastic spine of English youngsters, whether John Stones is the real deal, and all the Premier League news and gossip.

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Can Spurs pip Leicester to the title?

Mon, 21 Mar 2016 16:38:02 GMT

Host Mike Calvin is joined by Dom Fifield and Martin Lipton to discuss who will win the Premier League title - Leicester or Tottenham? Is desperation masquerading as innovation at Manchester United? And will England manager Roy Hodgson be bold against Germany?

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Is Wenger's time up?

Mon, 14 Mar 2016 16:25:06 GMT

Daily Mirror journalist John Cross and Tom Hopkinson from The Sunday People join host Mike Calvin to discuss whether it's time for Arsene Wenger to part company with Arsenal, plus the intriguing prospect of Pep Guardiola v Jose Mourinho in Manchester next season.

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Can Leicester actually do it?

Mon, 07 Mar 2016 14:41:37 GMT

Adrian Clarke and Tony Evans join host Mike Calvin to debate the big question of the week. Five points clear at the top of the Premier League, can Leicester actually win it? And have Arsenal and Tottenham blown it?

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