Essential Football

Essential Questions: Is Man City trip a must-win for Liverpool? Feb 20, 2025

After Liverpool's draw at Aston Villa on Wednesday, do they need maximum points at Man City live on Sky Sports on Sunday to keep title rivals Arsenal at bay and end talk of a wobble from Arne Slot's side?
Peter Smith is joined by Sam Blitz and Richard Morgan to dissect the form of the Premier League leaders, as well as the defending champions, following City's Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid.
The team also share insight on Chelsea's drop off, ahead of the Blues' own visit to Villa Park in a game which could be key for Champions League qualification for next season.

The Football Museum: Exhibit 26 - Chesney Hawkes Feb 18, 2025

The One and Only Chesney Hawkes has entered The Football Museum, and fortunately he does have clothes on!
The West Ham fan talks us through watching Jarrod Bowen score the club's most memorable goal from the stands in Prague, but does have a bone to pick with the Hammers captain for not keeping a promise.
As you'd expect, the famous Europa Conference League triumph features heavily, but Chesney explains why an event hours before kick-off proved to be the greatest moment of his life!
The Football Museum is open every week, so for your exclusive membership, give this podcast a follow: podfollow.com/the-football-museum

Essential Questions: As Man Utd travel to Tottenham, whose faithfuls will be celebrating come full-time? Feb 13, 2025

Ahead of a bottom-half clash with top billing this weekend as Man Utd travel to Tottenham, whose faithfuls will be celebrating come full-time and whose hopes of climbing the table banished for another week?
If the puns are confusing you - the Essential Football castle welcomes a special guest as Jake Brown joins Ron Walker and Sam Blitz for this week's episode, fresh from winning the third series of The Traitors.
A Man Utd fan since birth, Jake gives his thoughts on their hopes for Sunday's game as well as United's season, Ruben Amorim and where Kobbie Mainoo will end up after his False 9 experiment last time out.
As well as discussing Ange Postecoglou's hopes, where Spurs sit after their back-to-back cup exits and how big a game this is for the Tottenham boss, there's plenty of behind-the-scenes Traitors chat, the story of Jake's journey to playing football for England's Cerebral Palsy team and much more.
Tottenham Hotspur against Manchester United is live on Sky Sports on Sunday from 4pm.

The Football Museum: Exhibit 25 - Michael Dawson Feb 11, 2025

Michael Dawson enters 'The Football Museum' and explains why a special moment with Brian Clough forced him to support Nottingham Forest. He also remembers being picked over his sibling to make his debut for his boyhood club.
The former England defender reveals which Premier League legend he once had in his back pocket, before a wake-up call against the very same opponent in their next match. And as bad days go, will Dawson's 13-minute disasterclass against Fulham ever be topped?
The Football Museum is open every week, so for your exclusive membership, give this podcast a follow: podfollow.com/the-football-museum

The Football Museum: Exhibit 24 - Frazer Clarke Feb 04, 2025

From security guard to Olympic medallist, Frazer Clarke has seen a lot in his short boxing career so far, but hear how it could have all ended before it even started.
The Manchester United fan tells us which unfortunate incident from a former England captain led to the happiest moment in his life. Big Fraze also recalls watching an iconic Red Devils moment on a fuzzy portable TV in Jamaica, considers an Arsenal player as his favourite ever, and deliberates whether he'd prefer scoring in a World Cup final or winning a World title by knockout.
The Football Museum is open every week, so for your exclusive membership, give this podcast a follow: podfollow.com/the-football-museum

Essential Questions: Is it a must win Premier League weekend for two North London rivals, for differing reasons? Jan 31, 2025

Ron Walker, Sam Blitz and Ben Grounds look ahead to a bumper Super Sunday that sees title chasing Arsenal host Manchester City whilst Spurs travel to Brentford, in what could be two must wins games for sides at different ends of the table. You can watch both matches live on Sky Sports.

The Football Museum: Exhibit 23 - Keith and Shane from Boyzone Jan 27, 2025

Keith Duffy and Shane Lynch step out of popstar life and into The Football Museum. The pair discuss their hopes and dreams for their beloved Chorley FC, Keith talks turning 'Average Joe' and the pop sensations tell us why Toto and Titi are still very much enemies number 1 & 2.
Boyzone: No Matter What is available on Sky Documentaries from Monday, February 3rd.
The Football Museum is open every week, so for your exclusive membership, give this podcast a follow: podfollow.com/the-football-museum

Essential Questions: Man City vs Chelsea - can either side gain upper hand in Champions League race? Jan 24, 2025

Ron Walker and Pete Smith preview the Saturday Night Football clash between Manchester City and Chelsea in the Premier League.
With both sides coming into the game off the back of some inconsistent performances, who will be able to win the game and gain the upper hand in the race to qualify for next season's Champions League?

Essential Questions: Are Arsenal back in the title race? Can Everton change under Moyes? Is it make or break for Ange & Spurs? Jan 17, 2025

Peter Smith and Sam Blitz look ahead to the Premier League fixtures this weekend including some of the big matches you can watch live on Sky Sports.
Can Arsenal keep the pressure on Liverpool in the title race with a win against Aston Villa? Will David Moyes' return to Goodison Park be enough to turn around Everton's fortunes? Can Manchester City find some consistency as they travel to Portman Road to take on Ipswich?

The Football Museum - Exhibit 22: Ezra Collective Jan 17, 2025

Mercury Prize winners, Arsenal fans and brothers, Femi and TJ Koleoso from Ezra Collective create their joint exhibit in The Football Museum.
They reminisce to Josh Hayward over their first matchday experience, but explain why it turned into an annual nightmare. Even though it did allow them to witness an iconic Premier League moment...
The brothers relive Arsenal's historic win at the Bernabeu in 2006, tell us why Patrick Vieira was their comfort blanket, and Femi reveals the one thing he's managed that no Arsenal player has ever done before.
The Football Museum is open every week. For your exclusive membership, give this podcast a follow: https://podfollow.com/the-football-museum

The Football Museum - Exhibit 21: Adam Richman Jan 10, 2025

Your Essential Football feed is the new home of 'The Football Museum', the podcast where stars from the world of sport and entertainment curate their own exhibit in our virtual archives.
Josh Hayward kicks off series three by chatting to world famous foodie Adam Richman, who swaps plus-sized portions for football firsts and favourites.
The Man vs Food star reveals which bit of footy scran he cannot stand, explains why he’s a shareholder of Grimsby Town and empathises with Zinedine Zidane.
He tells us which famous bit of skill he has locked down, gets his Tottenham tattoo out during the pod, and discloses what he did after the dreaded Battle of the Bridge.
Adam’s new show, Adam Richman Eats Football, airs on Mondays at 10pm on Food Network and is streaming on Discovery+
The Football Museum is open every week. For your exclusive membership, give this podcast a follow wherever you get your podcasts: https://podfollow.com/the-football-museum

This week on 'The Boardroom from Sky Sports'......... Jan 09, 2025

Host of 'The Boardroom from Sky Sports', Mark McAdam, is here to tell you about our latest podcast featuring the inside story of how Brighton got promoted to the Premier League - and stayed there - becoming the envy of many other football clubs.
To listen to Chief Executive Paul Barber in conversation, search for 'The Boardroom from Sky Sports' on your podcast app or click on this link: podfollow.com/the-boardroom-from-sky-sports

Essential Questions: Liverpool vs Man Utd preview plus 2025 Premier League predictions Jan 02, 2025

Sky Sports’ Ron Walker, Peter Smith and Sam Blitz preview Liverpool’s huge derby game vs Manchester United - which affects both ends of the table!
Can Liverpool be stopped in their pursuit of the title and should Ruben Amorim’s Red Devils be looking over their shoulders at the bottom three? It's a match you can watch on Sky Sports on Super Sunday.
Plus, we make some bold and brave New Year predictions including who wins the title, who goes down and who is arranging a European tour!

The 2024 awards - the Essential review of the footballing year Dec 24, 2024

As we count down to the end of a memorable year in the football, relive the last 12 months in the Premier League and beyond as Sky Sports football journalists Ron Walker, Ben Grounds and Sam Blitz dish out the awards for the best and the worst of 2024.Who's been top of the tree, who's been the surprise package... And who's been the biggest disappointment?Get the discussion started around the Christmas table in the company of Sky Sports.

Five Years of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal: Essential Football Podcast Special Dec 19, 2024

Sky Sports’ Sam Blitz and Nick Wright take a look back at Arsenal’s five years with Mikel Arteta, who celebrates his anniversary as manager of the club this week.
Hear from Arteta and Arsenal players who discuss why this manager has dominated the headlines at times during his half-decade at the club, as Sam and Nick debate what is next and what is possible for the Spaniard in North London.

Essential Questions: Who needs a win more in the Manchester derby? Dec 13, 2024

Ron Walker, Pete Smith and Ben Grounds look ahead to Manchester City against Manchester United, a match you can watch live on Sky Sports on Sunday.
With both teams struggling for form at the moment, it’s being called ‘the crisis derby.’ But, who needs a win more?

Essential Questions: Will form go out the window in Premier League's weekend derbies? Dec 06, 2024

Ron Walker, Peter Smith and Sam Blitz look ahead to a weekend of derbies in the Premier League. Everton host Liverpool on Saturday in the last Merseyside fixture at Goodison Park, whilst on Sunday, Arsenal travel to Fulham and Tottenham are at home to Chelsea. Keep across all the football this weekend on Sky Sports.

Essential Questions: Liverpool against Manchester City - would a win for The Reds spell the end of the title race? Nov 28, 2024

Sky Sports’ Ron Walker, Peter Smith and Sam Blitz look ahead to Super Sunday’s big clash as Premier League leaders Liverpool host defending champions Manchester City, a match you can watch on Sky Sports from 4pm and follow on skysports.com.

Essential Questions: Why has Pep chosen to stay, and how does Portugal keep producing top talent? Nov 21, 2024

As Pep Guardiola agrees a contract extension at Manchester City, Ron Walker, Peter Smith and Sam Blitz discuss why he's chosen to stay with the champions and how his decision could affect the Premier League.
Plus, in the second half of the episode we're joined by Portuguese football journalist, Miguel Lourenço Pereira - author of the book, "Bring Me That Horizon: A Journey to the Soul of Portuguese Football". Miguel speaks to us about Ruben Amorim's appointment as Manchester United manager and explains how Portugal continues to produce world-class players and coaches.

Essential Questions: Is Arsenal's trip to Chelsea a must-win for The Gunners? Nov 08, 2024

Ron Walker and Sam Blitz look ahead to Chelsea against Arsenal, a potentially pivotal match in the title race and a game you can watch live on Sky Sports on Sunday.
Hear also from pundits Paul Merson and Gary Neville, as well as Chelsea's Levi Colwill who describes what it's like playing under Enzo Maresca. Listen to the full interview with Colwill on this week's One on One podcast: podfollow.com/one-on-one-from-sky-sports

Essential Questions: What does Ruben Amorim's appointment mean for Man Utd? Nov 01, 2024

Sky Sports football journalists Ron Walker, Peter Smith and Adam Bate discuss the appointment of Ruben Amorim as Manchester United head coach.
Plus, whilst we await his arrival at Old Trafford they look ahead to Sunday's clash with Chelsea, a match you can watch on Sky Sports.

“I don’t think anyone will be truly shocked!” – Neville reacts to Man Utd’s sacking of Ten Hag Oct 28, 2024

Former Manchester United Captain Gary Neville is amongst the guests on ‘The Football Show’ on Sky Sports News, reacting to the breaking news that Manchester United have sacked manager Erik ten Hag following the club's poor start to the season.
Former England internationals Stephen Warnock and Sue Smith also join Rob Jones and our Chief Reporter, Kaveh Solhekol, to discuss the timing of the decision, and ask who could be next through the door at Old Trafford. You can keep up to date with the very latest news coming out of Manchester United on Sky Sports News and skysports.com.

Essential Questions: Can Arsenal afford to lose to Liverpool? Oct 25, 2024

Ron Walker, Pete Smith and Nick Wright preview the big Super Sunday match between Arsenal and Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium, and ponder whether a defeat for the home side could see them out of contention to win the Premier League.

Essential Questions - Tuchel and the top four: What to expect from new England boss and Liverpool vs Chelsea blockbuster Oct 17, 2024

Peter Smith is joined by Richard Morgan and Sam Blitz to reflect on a dramatic few days, which have seen Thomas Tuchel appointed as England manager, and look ahead to a mouth-watering weekend of Premier League action on Sky Sports.
We discuss Tuchel’s Three Lions appointment and what he will bring to the role. Plus, there is team news and analysis ahead of Liverpool vs Chelsea, with Reds boss Arne Slot enterting a pivotal run of fixtures. Man City’s trip to Wolves and Arsenal’s visit to Bournemouth also goes under the microscope ahead of a key weekend for the teams at the top end of the Premier League.
If you’d like to listen to the Euros podcast with new England coach Anthony Barry that Peter mentions, click here: https://pod.fo/e/24897a

Tuchel agrees to become England manager Oct 15, 2024

Thomas Tuchel has agreed to become the new England manager.
Chelsea's Champions League-winning former boss will become England’s first German-born manager.
Hear from Sky Sports’ Senior Reporter Rob Dorsett, who broke the news, and journalist Henry Winter.
For more reaction to this story, keep across Sky Sports News and skysports.com.

Essential Questions: Where now for England and Carsley after Greece setback? Oct 11, 2024

Lee Carsley's England honeymoon is over after a disjointed performance and awful result against Greece on Thursday night. Was his experimental line-up to blame? Was he right to be bold? And how will Ollie Watkins and Dominic Solanke have felt? Plus, how will England set up in Finland on Sunday? And if he doesn't get the job... Who does?

Essential Questions: Is Aston Villa make-or-break for Erik Ten Hag at Man Utd? Oct 04, 2024

On the latest Essential Football podcast, Ron Walker, Pete Smith and Zinny Boswell discuss the rising pressure around Erik Ten Hag brought on by another poor start to the season at Man Utd.
After Marcus Rashford's bewildering half-time withdrawal in Porto, last weekend's debacle at home to Tottenham and a huge test coming up on Super Sunday at Aston Villa, the panel ask whether this is make-or-break time for Ten Hag - and where it's all come undone barely a year after his impressive debut season.
You can follow all the action from Aston Villa against Manchester United across Sky Sports this Sunday.

Essential Questions: What have we learnt from the Premier League season so far? Sep 26, 2024

After a month of action, which Premier League teams have impressed, where are alarm bells ringing and which players deserve early-season appreciation?
Peter Smith is joined by fellow Sky Sports journalists Sam Blitz and Richard Morgan to assess the campaign so far - and predict what comes next!

Essential Exclusive: Hearts CEO on Naismith sacking, Brighton owner talks, Shankland future & Rangers links Sep 25, 2024

Hearts CEO Andrew McKinlay sits down with Sky Sports’ Luke Shanley for an exclusive interview as he discusses why the club sacked Steven Naismith, how they’ll appoint a new head coach, reports the club are in talks with Brighton owner Tony Bloom over investment and they use of his analytics company, the future of captain Lawrence Shankland, being linked with the Rangers CEO job and much more.

Essential Exclusive: Rangers interim chairman John Gilligan speaks to Sky Sports Sep 24, 2024

Rangers interim chairman John Gilligan sits down with Sky Sports’ Luke Shanley for an exclusive interview as he discusses when the club will appoint a new CEO, his backing for manager Philippe Clement, January transfer plans, why he thinks Rangers can catch Celtic, his take on criticism from former chairman Dave King and much more.

Essential Questions: Is Man City vs Arsenal a title decider already? Sep 20, 2024

On the latest Essential Football, Sky Sports football journalists Ron Walker, Pete Smith and Lewis Jones look forward to the Super Sunday clash between Man City and Arsenal.
Would Kevin De Bruyne's absence be more of a problem than Martin Odegaard? Are Man City regressing - despite their perfect start? And where will Sunday's game be won or lost? Or would either side settle for another 0-0? You can follow all the action from Manchester City against Arsenal across Sky Sports.

Essential Questions: Who will win the North London Derby - depleted Arsenal or misfiring Spurs? Sep 12, 2024

Sky Sports football journalists Ron Walker, Peter Smith and Nick Wright look ahead to Sunday's North London Derby between Tottenham and Arsenal. We hear from Paul Merson and James Maddison, plus is this fixture the best derby in the Premier League?

Next Up: Archie Gray Sep 12, 2024

In the latest episode of our Next Up series, Ron Walker and Zinny Boswell take a closer look at new Tottenham signing, Archie Gray.
Ron chats with Sky Sports reporter Tim Thornton about the documentary he's put together which charts Gray's rise through the ranks at Leeds United where Archie is the latest in a family dynasty of footballers at Elland Road.

Essential Exclusive: Hibernian Executive Director, Ian Gordon, on transfers, manager sackings, finances & more Sep 09, 2024

Five years since the Gordon family took over at Hibernian, executive director Ian Gordon sits down with Sky Sports for his first broadcast interview.
Ian faced 150 questions in an exclusive one-hour grilling, as he admits to mistakes made, discusses managerial sackings, transfer dealings, finances, the women’s team and much more.
Even if you’re not a Hibs fan, or even a fan of Scottish football, this is an incredible insight into the day-to-day workings of a football club.

New Regimes for England and Wales | All you need to know about Carsley’s Three Lions & Bellamy’s Wales | Plus, who is Angel Gomes? Sep 05, 2024

Sky Sports football journalists Sam Blitz, Peter Smith and Ben Grounds discuss a new look England under interim manager Lee Carsley, as the post-Southgate era begins in the Nations League. Sky Sports News’ Senior Reporter Rob Dorsett casts an eye over training, and we find out about some of the new faces in Carsley’s first squad, including former Manchester United midfielder Angel Gomes. Plus, we preview Wales’ upcoming fixtures, as they begin life under Craig Bellamy.

Essential Questions: Where will Man Utd vs Liverpool be won and lost? Aug 29, 2024

With a huge clash between Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday, Sky Sports digital football journalists Ron Walker, Peter Smith and Sam Blitz are here to preview the game and pick out the important match-ups which could win or lose the game for both sides.

Sven-Goran Eriksson: 1948-2024 Aug 26, 2024

Hear from David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, Steve McClaren and Roy Hodgson as we pay tribute to former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson who has passed away aged 76.
Mike Wedderburn is also joined by Sky Sports’ Reporters Kaveh Solhekol, Gary Cotterill and Rob Dorsett who share their memories of Sven.

Essential Questions: What did we learn from the Premier League's opening weekend? Aug 22, 2024

Ron Walker, Pete Smith and Laura Hunter are here to look back on the action from the opening round of Premier League matches and discuss what we learned about the teams from matchday one.
Who made impressive starts, and which sides need to see improvement quickly?

Premier League 2024/25 preview podcast: Every club analysed! Aug 15, 2024

The Essential Football Podcast is back for a new Premier League season! From the title race and the battle to survive the drop, Sky Sports’ digital football journalists Sam Blitz, Nick Wright and Charlotte Marsh run through all of the top-flight sides, assessing their chances and predicting their fates.
We also hear from Sky Sports football journalist Laura Hunter, who lists which players have a point to prove ahead of a big, big season.

EFL Season Preview | Excitement awaits as the Championship, L1 and L2 return Aug 08, 2024

David Prutton is with Andy Hinchcliffe, Jobi McAnuff and Don Goodman to preview the new season of EFL action across the Championship, League One and League Two.
As they prepare for their opening fixtures hear from Luton boss Rob Edwards, new Plymouth manager Wayne Rooney, Portsmouth head coach John Mousinho, Derby's Paul Warne, Rotherham's Steve Evans and Bromley boss Andy Woodman as they prepare for their debut season in the EFL.
Plus our pundits pick out players to keep an eye out for in the season ahead and predict which clubs they think will be celebrating promotion when the season comes to a close in May.

Next Up: Ones to watch in the EFL Aug 05, 2024

With the new EFL season nearly upon us, we take a look at some of the young players to look out for in 2024/25.
Ron Walker, Sam Blitz and Dan Long are here to pick out ten of the brightest prospects.

Scottish Premiership Returns! We look ahead to the start of the SPL. Aug 02, 2024

Sky Sports’ Luke Shanley is at Tynecastle where he’s joined by ex-Hibs, Rangers and Dundee midfielder Kevin Thomson, and former Celtic and Dundee United defender Mark Wilson to look ahead to the start of the Scottish Premiership.
You can watch 4 games from the opening weekend of the SPL live and exclusive on Sky Sports this weekend.

Southgate resigns! Reaction from Neville & Carragher, and who's next for England? Jul 16, 2024

Following the news that Gareth Southgate has resigned as England manager, Ron Walker and Sam Blitz are here to react to the news.
We hear from Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher who give us their reactions to Southgate's decision to step down, and set out what they think his legacy will be as England boss.
Plus, Sky Sports News' senior reporters, Kaveh Solhekol and Rob Dorsett give us an idea of why Southgate may have decided his time was up, and discuss who might take over as the national team manager.

"That familiar, frustrated, disappointed feeling is there again for England fans!" Reaction to England's defeat to Spain Jul 15, 2024

Juliette Ferrington is joined by Sky Sports football journalists Peter Smith and Ron Walker to dissect England's Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain. We discuss where it went wrong, and look at what could be next for England and manager Gareth Southgate.
We go inside the England dressing room and hear from Southgate and Jude Bellingham, as well as former defender Gary Neville and World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst.
For more reaction to England's Euros, keep across Sky Sports News and the Sky Sports website and app.
We'll be back with more Essential Football podcasts at the start of the new season.

Essential Euros Final Preview: Gareth Southgate shares his thoughts on his future and looks ahead to Spain Jul 12, 2024

We hear from Gareth Southgate and Ollie Watkins ahead of the final of Euro 2024, Miguel Delaney of The Independent discusses Southgate's future, and Sky Sports football journalist Sam Blitz looks at England's challenges facing Spain. Plus, Juliette Ferrington chats to sports psychologist Dr Gill Cook who has some good news for England fans, if it goes to pens on Sunday!

Essential Euros: England are into the Euros Final! Hear from Neville, Robinson & Dawson Jul 11, 2024

Juliette Ferrington brings you reaction to England's win over the Netherlands in the semi finals of Euro 2024. We hear from manager Gareth Southgate, match-winner Ollie Watkins and captain Harry Kane talking to Sky Sports News' Rob Dorsett.
Plus, former England internationals Gary Neville, Paul Robinson and Michael Dawson share their thoughts on the victory, Henry Winter argues why Southgate deserves a statue if they win on Sunday, and Peter Smith looks ahead to the final against Spain.
Keep across Sky Sports News and the Sky Sports website and app for the latest news and all the build up to Sunday's final.

Essential Euros: Our big semi-final preview featuring Izzy Christiansen, Mark Ogden, Rob Dorsett and Chesney Hawkes! Jul 08, 2024

England are into the semi-finals of Euro 2024 and Juliette Ferrington looks ahead to the match against the Netherlands with Lioness Izzy Christiansen and journalist Mark Ogden. We get the latest from the England camp with Sky Sports News' Rob Dorsett and speak to Sky Sports' football journalist Sam Blitz. Plus, we’re joined by England fan and pop legend Chesney Hawkes who sings “Hey Jude”, chats Bellingham and Rice, and discusses going on stage during penalties.
Timings:
01:00 Rob Dorsett with the latest from the England camp
11:00 Izzy Christiansen and Mark Ogden look ahead to England’s match with the Netherlands.
31:00 Chesney Hawkes joins the pod to sing “Hey Jude” and talk all things England.
39:00 Sam Blitz looks ahead to France against Spain in the other semi-final.

Essential Euros: Penalty perfection! England set up Netherlands semi-final after shoot-out success against the Swiss Jul 07, 2024

England are through to the semi-finals of Euro 2024 after beating Switzerland on penalties in Dusseldorf.
Hear from England manager, Gareth Southgate, captain Harry Kane and penalty heroes Bukayo Saka and Jordan Pickford after they earned their place in the last four.
Plus Gary Neville gives his thoughts on the win, Rob Dorsett shares his view on England's progress, and Juliette Ferrington speaks to Michael Dawson and Sky Sports Senior Football journalist, Pete Smith as England start to prepare to take on Netherlands on Wednesday.

Essential Euros: Is it 'Berlin or Bust' for Southgate and England? Quarter Final Preview with Christiansen, Winter and Maximo Park! Jul 03, 2024

Lioness Izzy Christiansen and journalist Henry Winter join Juliette Ferrington to look ahead to England's Euro 2024 quarter final against Switzerland. England fan Paul from Maximo Park shares his experience of playing in the fan zones in Germany. Plus Sky Sports' Rob Dorsett brings us the very latest from England training, whilst Ron Walker casts his eye across the other matches this weekend. Keep across Sky Sports News and the website and app for all the latest from these Euros.

Essential Euros: "We're still in there fighting," says Southgate after England scrape through to the quarter finals in Germany Jun 30, 2024

Ron Walker brings you all the reaction to England's dramatic extra-time win over Slovakia in Euro 2024. Hear from manager Gareth Southgate, player of the match Jude Bellingham, ex-England boss Sam Allardyce, and former defender Michael Dawson. England move on to face Switzerland in the quarter finals on Saturday.

Essential Euros: Gary Neville and Michael Dawson on England's draw with Slovenia that sees them top their group, but fail to impress Jun 26, 2024

Former England defenders Gary Neville and Michael Dawson deliver their verdict on England's 0-0 draw with Slovenia. We also hear from Gareth Southgate and our man with the England camp, Rob Dorsett. Plus, as music and football collide this weekend with Glastonbury also on the calendar, we look ahead with England fans and Indie band Sea Girls.

Essential Euros: "We've got to find a way to be better!" Kris Boyd on another early exit for Scotland Jun 24, 2024

Former striker Kris Boyd joins Juliette Ferrington to look back on Scotland's last gasp defeat to Hungary that sends them home from these Euros. Plus, we're with the England camp as they prepare to face Slovenia.

Essential Euros: Dawson and Warnock deliver their verdicts on England's draw with Denmark Jun 21, 2024

Former England defenders Michael Dawson and Stephen Warnock join Hayley McQueen, Juliette Ferrington and Ron Walker to give their reactions to England's 1-1 draw against Denmark at Euro 2024. Buckle up!

Next Up: Ones to Watch at Copa America Jun 21, 2024

Next Up is the podcast from Sky Sports that takes an in-depth look at some of football's stars of the future. This time, Ron, Joe and Zinny are back to put forward ten players who could have a breakthrough tournament at this summer's Copa America. You can also read about our Next Up players to watch on skysports.com.

Essential Euros: "It gives us a fighting chance!" Kris Boyd's reaction to Scotland's first point at Euro 2024 Jun 20, 2024

Hayley McQueen and Juliette Ferrington are joined by former striker Kris Boyd to look back on Scotland's 1-1 draw with Switzerland, that keeps alive their Euros 2024 hopes. We also hear from singer-songwriter Nathan Evans who has been out in Germany to play for the Tartan Army.
Keep across Sky Sports News and skysports.com for all the news, views and interviews from these Euros.

Essential Euros: Bonus Pod! We meet the English coach who swapped coaching at Accrington Stanley for working with Portugal at Euro 2024 Jun 18, 2024

On the day that Portugal begin their Euro 2024 campaign, we meet the 38 year old English coach who has gone from working at Accrington Stanley and Wigan, to coaching the Portuguese national side at the European Championships in Germany.
Anthony Barry opens up about his remarkable career to date, that also includes spells at Wigan, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Ireland and Belgium.
Barry discusses coaching global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Kevin De Bruyne and Harry Kane, and talks about what it’s like to work alongside managers such as Thomas Tuchel, Frank Lampard and Roberto Martinez.
It really is a remarkable story and one interview you won’t want to miss.

Essential Euros: "Job done," says Michael Dawson - but how are the nerves? We look back on England's win over Serbia at Euro 2024 Jun 17, 2024

It wasn't pretty at times, but Michael Dawson is bringing the positivity as he joins Juliette Ferrington and Hayley McQueen to look back at England's 1-0 win over Serbia in their opening match of Euro 2024. We also speak to the Scotland fan who walked 500 miles.....and walked 500 more....to make it to Germany.

Essential Euros: "It was bad, it was very bad!" Boyd on Scotland v Germany, plus England against Serbia preview Jun 15, 2024

Former forward Kris Boyd joins Hayley McQueen and Juliette Ferrington to look back on Scotland's defeat to Germany in the opening match of Euro 2024. We join our Chief Reporter Kaveh Solhekol to get all the latest news from the England camp ahead of their opening match, and journalist Ron Walker is back to cast his eye on the tournament as a whole. We'll talk to you next on Monday, after England play Serbia.

Essential Euros: Preview with Michael Dawson, Kris Boyd & the English coach helping Portugal to Euros success Jun 12, 2024

Hayley McQueen and Juliette Ferrington look ahead to Euro 2024 with former England defender Michael Dawson, ex-Scotland forward Kris Boyd and our Sky Sports News reporters out in Germany, Rob Dorsett and Luke Shanley.
Football journalist Ron Walker runs his eye over the draw and picks his tournament favourites. Plus, we hear from Anthony Barry, the English coach who has gone from working at Accrington Stanley and Wigan, via Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Belgium, to coaching Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal at these Euros.
We'll have podcasts before and after all of England and Scotland's fixtures at Euro 2024 - find us on Sky's Essential Football podcast feed. Plus, keep across all the news from Germany on Sky Sports News and skysports.com.

Next Up: Ones to watch at the Euros Jun 12, 2024

Ron, Joe and Zinny are back for our latest Next Up episode to put forward ten players who could have a breakthrough tournament at this summer's European Championships.

Next Up: Kobbie Mainoo Jun 06, 2024

In our second 'Next Up' episode we take an in-depth look at another of football's stars of the future - Kobbie Mainoo.
Ron Walker, Zinny Boswell and Joe Shread discuss the Manchester United midfielder's breakthrough season at Old Trafford and we hear how his talent was obvious from a very early age.

Next Up: Endrick May 30, 2024

Welcome to Sky Sports' new podcast series, 'Next Up' which takes an in-depth look at some of football's stars of the future.
In this first episode, Ron Walker, Zinny Boswell and Joe Shread take a closer look at Real Madrid-bound, Endrick and how he burst onto the scene for Palmeiras and Brazil.

Essential Questions: Has Ange's first year at Spurs been a success? May 29, 2024

Sky Sports digital football journalist, Declan Olley is joined by Sky Sports News reporter, Michael Bridge to run the rule over Ange Postecoglou's first season in charge of Tottenham Hotspur. Has it been a success? And where can the Australian take the club from here?

Essential Euros | Clarke names his Scotland training squad for Euro 2024 May 22, 2024

Hear from Scotland manager Steve Clarke, as he names his training squad for Euro 2024.
Former Scotland international Kris Boyd and Sky Sports News' Luke Shanley discuss the 28 named players in their provisional squad.
Plus we'll look ahead to Scotland's prospects at the Euros in Germany.

Essential Euros | Southgate names his England training squad for Euro 2024 May 21, 2024

Hear from England manager Gareth Southgate, as he names his training squad for Euro 2024.
Former England international Paul Merson and Sky Sports News’ Kaveh Solhekol join Vicky Gomersall to cast their eyes over the 33 named players – and discuss the ones that didn’t make it, including Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson.
Plus we hear from our reporter with the England camp, Rob Dorsett and we’ll look ahead to England’s Euros campaign.

Essential Questions: Every Premier League team's season graded! May 20, 2024

Ron Walker, Peter Smith and Sam Blitz discuss your club's season and create a report card for each Premier League team in 2023/2024. But do you agree? You can have your say at skysports.com.

Essential Questions: What will be the twists on Premier League final day? May 16, 2024

Sky Sports football journalists Peter Smith, Sam Blitz and Nick Wright look ahead to the final day of the Premier League season and ask whether the twists and turns will come in the title race or in the pursuit of Europe.

Essential Questions: Forest, Luton or Burnley? Who will avoid relegation? May 10, 2024

Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports digital football journalists, Ben Grounds and Zinny Boswell to take a look at the battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League. Will it be Nottingham Forest, Luton Town or Burnley who maintain their place in the top division?

Essential Questions: Chelsea & Spurs - will Pochettino & Postecoglou bring success at their clubs? May 03, 2024

Ron Walker, Pete Smith and Sam Blitz discuss the fall out from this week's London derby between Chelsea and Spurs, amid seeming mounting pressure on both managers. Plus, they look ahead to the Premier League fixtures this weekend.

Essential Questions: Is Slot the man for Liverpool? Apr 25, 2024

Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports News' senior reporter, Melissa Reddy and Sky Sports digital football journalist Adam Bate to discuss the reports touting Arne Slot as Jurgen Klopp's replacement as Liverpool manager.

Essential Questions: Can Jim Ratcliffe get Man Utd back to the top? Apr 11, 2024

Ron Walker, Peter Smith and Nicholas Wright discuss the current situation at Manchester United and consider whether Sir Jim Ratcliffe's investment in the club can help them return to the top of English football.

Essential Questions: Is Man Utd vs Liverpool 'must-win' for both sides? Apr 05, 2024

Ron Walker, Peter Smith and Richard Morgan discuss the huge clash between Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford this weekend, and consider whether both sides must win the game as the Premier League season edges towards its conclusion.

Where next for Liverpool after Xabi stays put? Apr 02, 2024

Sky Sports Senior Reporter Melissa Reddy joins Ron Walker to discuss Xabi Alonso's decision to stay in Germany at Bayer Leverkusen, where Liverpool might turn next in their pursuit of Jurgen Klopp's successor, and will we see Ruben Amorim or Roberto De Zerbi on Merseyside?

Essential Questions: Is this the decisive weekend in the PL title race? Mar 28, 2024

Sky Sports football journalists, Ron Walker, Peter Smith and Sam Blitz are back after the international break to preview the huge Super Sunday games between Manchester City and Arsenal and Liverpool's match against Brighton.
Could this be a decisive weekend to decide who will end up lifting the trophy? Where will City vs Arsenal be won or lost? Is this De Zerbi's audition for the Liverpool job?

'An icon of the game' | Ex-England Captain Steph Houghton Announces Retirement Mar 27, 2024

Manchester City defender and former England captain Steph Houghton has announced her retirement from football at the end of the season. Houghton is City's most decorated player - she's won the League, FA Cups, League Cups, and earnt 121 England caps.
In 2020, Steph joined Caroline Barker to look back at one of her proudest moments in an England shirt, at the 2015 World Cup in Canada. Ultimately, Steph was part of the team that suffered a heart-breaking last minute defeat to Japan in the semi finals, but as she says, it "changed women's football for the better".
Here’s a chance to relive that tournament, that moment, and that interview.

Essential Questions: Arsenal, Liverpool or City? Who will win the Premier League? Mar 14, 2024

Ron Walker, Peter Smith and Sam Blitz discuss the Premier League title race and make a case for each of the three contenders - Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City.

Liverpool against Manchester City preview Mar 08, 2024

It's Liverpool against Manchester City, Jurgen Klopp versus Pep Guardiola! Michael Dawson and Peter Drury join Sky Sports' Peter Smith to look ahead to this huge match at Anfield, which you can watch, live, on Sky Sports on Sunday.

Carabao Cup Final preview with Michael Dawson and Peter Drury Feb 23, 2024

Michael Dawson and Peter Drury join Pete Smith to look ahead to Chelsea vs Liverpool in the Carabao Cup Final at Wembley Stadium.

Who will replace Klopp at Liverpool? Feb 19, 2024

Sky Sports' Peter Smith and Melissa Reddy discuss the latest on Liverpool's hunt for a successor to Jurgen Klopp, weighing up the attributes of the key contenders and the criteria the Anfield club will be looking for from their next head coach.
From standout favourite Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, to potential Premier League picks, such as Brighton's Roberto De Zerbi, Brentford's Thomas Frank and Tottenham's Ange Postecoglou, Sky Sports News senior reporter Reddy assesses what each of the front runners would bring to the role - and what obstacles could be in the way.

Carragher “in shock” as Klopp announces Liverpool departure. Jan 26, 2024

Former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher reacts to Jurgen Klopp’s decision to leave Anfield at the end of the season.
For more on this story, keep across Sky Sports News and the Sky Sports website and app.

Ivan Toney exclusive interview: 'Hungry' to return and 'repaying' Brentford Jan 08, 2024

As he prepares to return from an eight month ban for breaching gambing rules, Brentford striker Ivan Toney sits down with Darren Lewis to discuss his time away from the game.
Toney describes how he avoided watching football for a period of time, what he has done to keep himself in shape and how he wants to repay his club by helping them stave off relegation from the Premier League.

Steve Clarke: Off to Germany Dec 25, 2023

Scotland head coach Steve Clarke exclusively sits down with Sky Sports to reflect on a successful 2023, looks ahead to Euro 2024, Scott McTominay’s impact, his squad selection dilemas and more.

Exclusive: Gareth Southgate on England's year, and why winning Euro 2024 is 'possible' Dec 24, 2023

The England manager Gareth Southgate sits down with Sky Sports News' Senior Reporter Rob Dorsett to look back at 2023 and look ahead to next summer's Euros.

Jamie Carragher's Man City vs Liverpool preview: Will Reds blow title race open at home of their rivals? Nov 24, 2023

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher joins Peter Smith to look ahead to the huge Saturday lunchtime showdown between Manchester City and Liverpool at the Etihad, which you can watch live on Sky Sports. Carragher assesses the key battles across the park, Alexis Mac Allister's crucial role in the Liverpool midfield and whether Erling Haaland or Mo Salah will steal the show for their side. He also reveals what the key selection decision is for Pep Guardiola ahead of the contest - and what a rare positive result at the home of the defending champions would mean for the title hopes of Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool.

When Australia beat England's 'Golden Generation' Oct 12, 2023

England host Australia on Friday – 20 years after the Socceroos stunned the Golden Generation.
In February 2003, sandwiched between a dominant Australia Ashes win and England’s famous rugby World Cup triumph Down Under, the Aussies beat England at football for the very first time.
It was the night when Sven-Goran Eriksson changed the entire England team at half-time, Wayne Rooney made his international debut and Australia landed a painful blow on their big sporting rivals.
Peter Smith reflects on that game with players who were on the pitch...

Tragedy Chanting | Jamie Carragher joins panel of fans | How do we stop a poisonous atmosphere? Aug 30, 2023

In this special episode of Essential Football Ben Ransom and Jamie Carragher discuss the concern around football tragedy abuse.
They are joined by Joe Blott from the FSA, Charlotte Hennessey, who lost her father at Hillsborough, and Gareth Senior, who was in Istanbul when two Leeds supporters were murdered in 2000.

Exclusive: Cesc Fabregas talks retirement, coaching and Premier League dream Aug 29, 2023

In an exclusive interview, Cesc Fabregas describes his move into coaching with Italian side, Como after retiring from playing football and says he would like to manage a team in the Premier League one day. The former Arsenal and Chelsea player also runs the rule over his old clubs as the new season gets underway.

Heartbreak for England in World Cup final loss to Spain Aug 20, 2023

Anton Toloui and Charlotte Marsh return for a final Essential Football podcast to reflect on England's defeat to Spain in the Women's World Cup final.
They discuss where the game was won and lost, whether Wiegman got her tactics right and the wider impact of Spain's win.
Plus, the pair pick their moment of the tournament and why it's important to keep supporting women's football heading into the new WSL season.

Spain vs England final preview Aug 18, 2023

We're are almost there - Anton Toloui and Charlotte Marsh return to preview the Women's World Cup final as England face Spain on Sunday.
The pair discuss whether Lauren James should come straight back into the XI, the brilliance of Sarina Wiegman, plus the issues Spain might pose.

England's tournament experience shines against Australia Aug 16, 2023

Anton Toloui and Charlotte Marsh return as England reach their first ever World Cup final, beating Australia 3-1 in Sydney.
The pair discuss the moments that swung the game in England's favour, including Lauren Hemp's brilliance and a fine game from Lucy Bronze.
Plus, as Australia embraces the Matildas and women's football, what does the future hold for the team?

It's crunch time - Women's World Cup semi-final previews Aug 14, 2023

Anton Toloui and Charlotte Marsh return to preview the upcoming Women's World Cup semi-finals.
The pair chat England's match against co-hosts Australia, which could see the return of Sam Kerr. They also discuss why Mary Earps is the best goalkeeper in the world at the moment and where the key battles could be.
Plus, Spain take on Sweden, with differing opinions on who could make the final.

England beat Colombia to reach World Cup semi-finals Aug 12, 2023

Anton Toloui and Charlotte Marsh return to reflect on England's 2-1 win against Colombia in the Women's World Cup quarter-finals.
The pair discuss how England improved against an impressive Colombia side, including a fine performance from Alessia Russo, and where they could improve ahead of a mouth-watering showdown against Australia on Wednesday.

Kane to Bayern; Caicedo snubs Liverpool – Jamie Redknapp on transfer drama and the PL season ahead Aug 11, 2023

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp joins Peter Smith on the Essential Football Podcast to look ahead to a blockbuster Premier League season ahead – and dissect some of the huge talking points the transfer market has thrown up, with Harry Kane leaving Tottenham for Bayern Munich and Brighton’s Moises Caicedo in a tug of war between Liverpool and Chelsea!
Jamie also has his say on whether anyone can stop treble winners Man City from defending their league title, assesses the top-four battle and challenge for the promoted clubs and picks out his player to watch this season – one Fantasy Football fans will definitely want to listen out for!

The art of commentary with Sky Sports' newest signing Peter Drury and more! Aug 10, 2023

Ahead of the new Premier League season, Dougie Critchley sits down with the voices behind the action, Bill Leslie, Rob Hawthorne, Daniel Mann, Seb Hutchinson, Pien Meulensteen and newest addition, Peter Drury join the podcast to discuss what they're most excited about this season, how they prepare for games and what makes a good commentator.

Essential Football podcast: England vs Colombia quarter-final preview Aug 10, 2023

Sky Sports football journalists Charlotte Marsh and Laura Hunter take a look at England's upcoming Women's World Cup quarter-final against Colombia.
They discuss how Sarina Wiegman may set up her team in the absence of Lauren James, how they might deal with an impressive Colombia and make their score predictions.

Future of Football: Will the Saudi Pro League change transfers forever? Aug 10, 2023

In a special podcast on the Saudi Pro League, Sky Sports News chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol talks to Peter Smith about why there has suddenly been big spending from clubs in Saudi Arabia on European-based players, what the league must do to attract elite players, and what the big salaries on offer in the Middle East mean for clubs and players in the Premier League.

Future of Football: How will competitions change? And will the European Super League return? Aug 08, 2023

In the latest edition of Sky Sports’ Future of Football podcast series, we hear from senior reporter Rob Dorsett, who provides all the details of UEFA’s plans for Champions League expansion and FIFA’s revamp of the Club World Cup.
Football journalist Joe Shread discusses where we stand with the future of the European Super League and what form the proposed competition could take - if it ever gets off the ground.
And football journalist David Richardson debates the future of the EFL - including whether National League clubs will finally get their wish for an extra promotion place.

England WWC reaction: Lionesses' fortunate Nigeria win dissected - form, formation and Lauren James Aug 07, 2023

Anton Toloui and Ron Walker are back with an England reaction edition of the Essential Podcast from the Women's World Cup.
Anton and Ron look back on England's fortunate last-16 win over Nigeria, where the Lionesses needed a penalty shoot-out to keep their tournament hopes alive.
Why was it so hard in Brisbane? What went wrong? What happened to Lauren James? And most importantly, what needs to change for the quarter-finals?

Essential Football podcast: Group stage reflections, England vs Nigeria plus last 16 previews Aug 04, 2023

Anton Toloui and Charlotte Marsh are back with a bumper edition of the Essential Podcast from the Women's World Cup.
Sky Sports News' Fadumo Olow joins to discuss the biggest moments and shocks from group stages.
Anton and Charlotte then take a closer look at England's last 16 game against Nigeria, before Sky Sports News' Jess Creighton joins the chat to preview the remaining games in the knockout rounds.

Future of Football: How will tactics change? With Gary Neville, Andoni Iraola and more Aug 02, 2023

On a Future of Football podcast special, we hear from new Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, Gary Neville and others about where tactics are heading in the next decades.
Sky Sports football features writers Adam Bate and Nick Wright join Ron Walker to discuss their findings from speaking to coaches and managers across Europe and beyond about the direction of travel of the tactics board and how differently the game will be played in years to come.
Former Spain manager Robert Moreno gives his thoughts on how the speed of the game is changing, we hear from ex-RB Salzburg boss Matthias Jaissle on the intelligence of players in the modern game and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville gives his thoughts on the cyclical nature of football - so maybe 4-4-2 isn't dead forever after all.

James dazzles again as much-changed England see off China Aug 01, 2023

Anton Toloui and Charlotte Marsh return to reflect on England's 6-1 win against China in their final World Cup group game.
Lauren James dazzled again as her two goals and three assists fired England into the last 16.
The pair also look at Sarina Wiegman's tactical tweaks and what could await England in Nigeria in Monday's last 16 match.

Essential Football podcast: England vs China preview as ROI bow out of the Women's World Cup Jul 30, 2023

Anton Toloui and Charlotte Marsh are back to preview England's final Women's World Cup group game against China on Tuesday. The pair discuss how England will cope without Keira Walsh, the joy of watching Lauren James play and what issues China might pose for the Lionesses. Plus, a look at how the Republic of Ireland's first major tournament campaign has inspired others and what the future might hold for manager Vera Pauw.

Essential Football: England beat Denmark, but how will Walsh injury affect them? Jul 28, 2023

Anton Toloui and Charlotte Marsh return to take a look back at England's 1-0 win against Denmark in their second Women's World Cup game, leaving them on the verge of qualification to the last 16.

Future of Football: How could climate change affect the stadia of the future? Jul 28, 2023

In the latest part of our Future of Football series, David Garrido considers how climate change could affect the way stadiums are used by clubs and fans.
David is joined by Dale Vince (Forest Green Rovers Owner), Kristen Fulmer (Sustainability Expert) and Benedicte Halvorsen (Bodø/Glimt).

England vs Denmark preview as ROI knocked out of Women's World Cup Jul 27, 2023

Anton Toloui and Charlotte Marsh return with the Essential Football podcast, previewing England's second group game against Denmark.
They discuss what changes - if any - Sarina Wiegman could make as they look to break a long run of no goals from open play. Plus, just what threat could Denmark pose for the Lionesses?
Sky Sports News reporter Jess Creighton also joins the chat to discuss Republic of Ireland's exit from their first major tournament, and what it could mean for them going forward.

Future of Football: What will the laws of the future look like, and how will they be decided? With ex-Premier League ref Dermot Gallagher Jul 24, 2023

In the first of our Future of Football podcasts, former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher joins Ron Walker to talk about how the laws of the game might change over the coming decades - and explain why he enjoyed helping Sky Sports put some of them into practice in a training match you can watch across our digital platforms.
Oli Yew also speaks to Lukas Brud, secretary of the lawmakers of the game, IFAB, to get an insight into how new rules are introduced and why the world body never dismiss ideas out of hand - no matter how bizarre.
Read more on the Future of Football, from how rules, to stadiums, to transfers will all change over the coming years, at skysports.com.

England 1-0 Haiti reaction | Theus’ heroics for Haiti | What is England’s best XI? | Can Lionesses improve against Denmark? Jul 22, 2023

Sky Sports News reporter Anton Toloui and Sky Sports’ senior football reporter Charlotte Marsh react to England’s 1-0 win over Haiti in the Women's World Cup.
They discuss Kerly Theus’ heroics in goal for Haiti against an England attack that struggled in front of goal, who should start for the Lionesses against Denmark and if a win could provide the spark to win the tournament.

Essential Football podcast: Women’s World Cup preview Jul 17, 2023

Sky Sports News reporter Anton Toloui and Sky Sports’ senior football reporter Charlotte Marsh return with the Essential Football podcast, previewing the upcoming Women’s World Cup.
They chat England’s chances at the tournament, and the potential issues the Lionesses face, and are joined by Sky Sports News reporter Jess Creighton for insight on the Republic of Ireland ahead of their first major international tournament.
Sky Sports football journalists Ron Walker and Zinny Boswell also chat the USA, Spain and Jamaica as all three nations face their own issues heading into the World Cup, plus a look at the other runners and riders in Australia and New Zealand.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Everton survive on dramatic final day | Leicester and Leeds relegated | Aston Villa secure European football May 28, 2023

On the last Essential Football Weekend Wrap of the season, Oliver Yew takes you through a round of games which saw Everton retain their Premier League status, while Leicester and Leeds dropped down to the Sky Bet Championship.
Ben Grounds, Zinny Boswell, and David Richardson take us through the drama of Everton's win, which guaranteed survival, Leicester's relegation despite thier win against West Ham and Leeds' heavy loss against Tottenham as the battle to beat the drop was finally settled.
Elsewhere, there were celebrations for Aston Villa as they secured the final European spot, meaning they will play in the Europa Conference League next season after pipping Spurs and Brentford, who beat champions Man City on the final day. Ron Walker and Sam Blitz report on Villa's win and Brentford's success against Pep Guardiola's side respectively.
Nick Wright, Adam Bate and Peter Smith deliver final day verdicts from the Emirates Stadium, Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge after wins for Arsenal and Man Utd, and Chelsea's 1-1 draw with Newcastle, while Laura Hunter and Adam Smith round the season off with reports from St Mary's as already relegated Southampton played out a thrilling 4-4 draw with Liverpool and Selhurst Park as Crystal Palace were held by Nottingham Forest.
And that's your final Premier League Weekend Wrap of the season!

Jeff Stelling special: The departing face of Soccer Saturday on an incredible 29 years May 28, 2023

The TV legend that is Jeff Stelling joins Ron Walker for a special Essential Football on his last day at Sky Sports to look back on his 29 years in the Soccer Saturday chair.
Jeff talks us through his three decades in the hotseat, what he’ll miss most about being the face of Saturday afternoon TV and the best and worst moments that stick in his mind down the years.
From George Best to Chris Kamara and everyone between, Jeff reveals how he made guests feel so at ease in the Soccer Saturday studio, how he seemed to have a statistic about every player from every league and why fronting ‘Sports Saturday’ back in 1994 didn’t seem like the most appealing job in the world back then – how times change.

Firmino’s farewell: How the Liverpool forward became a cult hero at Anfield May 26, 2023

Roberto Firmino waved goodbye to Anfield last weekend and on Sunday he will make his final appearance for Liverpool at Southampton before leaving the club this summer.
After his emotional send-off from the home fans after scoring a late equaliser against Aston Villa, we look at how he became a cult hero for the club’s supporters, his importance to Jurgen Klopp’s style of play and the impact he had on the Premier League.
Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports senior football journalist Richard Morgan to analyse Firmino’s time in England and we hear from Jamie Carragher about this unique player.

Best Player? Best manager? Best/worst signing? Sky Sports Premier League end of season awards! May 25, 2023

With the Premier League reaching its conclusion this weekend, Sky Sports football journalists Peter Smith, Nick Wright and Sam Blitz discuss, debate and celebrate the stars of the 2022/23 season.
You can join in and have your say by visiting the Sky Sports website or App on Friday and posting your picks of the season in our interactive blog.

Chelsea's 12 months of chaos: Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali's turbulent first year at Stamford Bridge May 25, 2023

Coming towards the end of a bumpier first year in charge at Chelsea than either Todd Boehly or Behdad Eghbali could have ever envisaged, Sky Sports digital football journalist Joe Shread looks back on the most turbluent season in living memory at Stamford Bridge.
In a special edition of Essential Football, Joe joins Ron Walker to discuss the key topics from a campaign which began with such promise after a tough end to the Roman Abramovich era.
Up for discussion is how the new owners' relationship with Thomas Tuchel soured - and resulted in his sacking days after a chaotic summer transfer window had ended, before the pursuit of Graham Potter and the rapid toxic atmosphere which soon engulfed his reign amid another mad spending spree.
Then it's onto the return of Frank Lampard and Chelsea plumetting to new depths under their interim manager - but renewed hope finally appearing due to the impending arrival of Mauricio Pochettino.
Read Joe's full feature on Chelsea's 12 months of chaos on the Sky Sports website.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Man City crowned | European race and relegation battle heat up May 21, 2023

On the latest Essential Football Weekend Wrap, Peter Smith takes you through a round of games which saw Manchester City lift the Premier League trophy after Arsenal lost at Nottingham Forest.
We hear from key figures at Man City on their triumph and Gary Neville explains why this is his favourite version of a Pep Guardiola team at Man City.
We also dive into the relegation battle, with Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper explaining what it feels like for his side to now be safe, Sean Dyche assessing Everton’s situation after their last-gasp draw at Wolves and Sky Sports’ Ben Grounds reports from the London Stadium where Leeds remain in big trouble after losing to West Ham.
It was partytime on the south coast, though, as Brighton celebrated a first-ever European qualification. Lewis Jones explains how they did it. Liverpool are likely to join them in the Europa League and Jurgen Klopp pays tribute to Roberto Firmino and James Milner after their draw with Aston Villa. That result boosted Man Utd’s Champions League chances and Joe Shread reflects on their win at Bournemouth.
Tottenham slipped out of the European qualifying spots this weekend and Dev Trehan looks back on their disappointing defeat at home to a Brentford side who could incredible sneak into the Europa Conference League themselves. Plus Sam Blitz reports from Craven Cottage where Fulham and Crystal Palace drew and their supporters paid tribute to Roy Hodgson.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Mauricio Pochettino special: What the 'perfect fit' for Chelsea will bring to Stamford Bridge - and what he wants this summer May 19, 2023

On a special edition of Essential Football, Melissa Reddy, Paul Gilmour and Lyall Thomas join Ron Walker to look ahead to Mauricio Pochettino's impending appointment as Chelsea's third manager of the Todd Boehly era.
Melissa and Paul explain the depth of the philosophy which made the Argentine such a successful figure at Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton, why he can re-energise a tired Chelsea and what he's learned from his time abroad at PSG.
With a huge squad for Pochettino to deal with this summer, Lyall charts the task he has on his hands in the upcoming transfer window, who could be on their way out at Stamford Bridge and where he will want to see investment ahead of the new season.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Man City on the brink after Brighton beat Arsenal | Villa to kick Spurs out of Europe? | Saints slip out May 14, 2023

On the latest Essential Football Weekend Wrap, Peter Smith takes you through a dramatic and potentially decisive round of Premier League games which saw Man City move to within touching distance of the Premier League crown after Arsenal were beaten at home by Brighton. We hear from Mikel Arteta, Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira on a dramatic Super Sunday.
We also assess the race for European football, with Joe Shread’s assessment of Man Utd’s win over Wolves and Declan Olley’s verdict on Aston Villa’s victory against Tottenham. Plus the relegation battle is proving to be a fascinating one – Zinny Boswell reflects on Nottingham Forest’s point at Chelsea which helps their hopes of escaping danger, while Nick Wright analyses Crystal Palace’s win over a Bournemouth side who had their top-flight status confirmed by Everton’s defeat to Man City. The fight is over for Southampton, though – they have been relegated to the Championship and Ben Grounds was there at St Mary’s to see their 11-season stay in the Premier League come to an end.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Arsenal keep the title race alive | Man Utd stuttering in top-four race | Liverpool make it six straight wins May 07, 2023

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring reporter analysis and manager reaction from up and down the top-flight.
Ron Walker looks back at Arsenal’s crucial win at Newcastle, which keeps the Premier League title race alive after Man City beat Leeds on Saturday.
Meanwhile, the race for the top-four is also wide open after Liverpool moved to within a point of Brentford with a sixth straight win on Saturday evening. Could Man Utd respond? The answer was no and Nick Wright and Zinny Boswell analyse United’s 1-0 defeat at West Ham.
Peter Smith reports from Tottenham’s win over Crystal Palace, which keeps their European hopes alive after another record-breaking goal from Harry Kane. Meanwhile, Aston Villa’s chances of securing European qualification were dented with a 1-0 defeat at Wolves. Adam Bate gives his verdict on the home win at Molineux.
Finally, Chelsea got back to winning ways. Frank Lampard and his side avoided an unwanted club record with a 3-1 win at Bournemouth, which was watched for us by Dan Sansom and Sky Sports News reporter Mark McAdam.
And that’s your Premier League weekend wrap!

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Man City back on top | Liverpool edge Spurs in thriller | Relegation fears deepen for Forest and Leeds Apr 30, 2023

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring reporter analysis and manager reaction from up and down the top-flight.
Ben Grounds looks back at Manchester City’s win over Fulham, which sees them go top of the Premier League table above Arsenal.
There were big results in race for Europe. There’s reaction from Harry Kane, Jurgen Klopp and Sky Sports’ Gary Neville to Liverpool’s dramatic 4-3 win over Tottenham at Anfield.
Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag discusses Man Utd’s 1-0 win over in-form Aston Villa before Eddie Howe and Ruben Selles analyse Newcastle’s comeback win over rock-bottom Southampton, while David Richardson discusses Brighton’s big win over Wolves.
There were also big wins down at the bottom of the table as Bournemouth and Crystal Palace moved closer to safety with wins over Leeds and West Ham respectively. We hear from Dan Long on the Cherries' big win, while Jack Wilkinson gives his verdict from Selhurst Park.
Finally, we hear from Sam Blitz as Nottingham Forest’s troubles deepened as Brentford struck late twice to snatch victory at the Gtech Community stadium.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

‘De Bruyne is the best-ever PL midfielder’ – Jamie Redknapp on Man City’s title charge | Plus priorities for Liverpool & Tottenham Apr 28, 2023

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp joins Peter Smith on the Essential Football Podcast to reflect on Manchester City’s potentially title-race defining win over Arsenal on Wednesday night, analysing what set City apart, discussing what hope Arsenal may have of another twist – and why he reckons Kevin De Bruyne ranks as the Premier League’s best-ever midfielder.
Former Liverpool and Tottenham captain Redknapp also has his say on those two clubs ahead of their meeting at Anfield, with the Reds finding some late-season form and Tottenham picking themselves up under interim boss Ryan Mason. The next steps for both those clubs and how they can be a force next season is on the agenda.

Premier League Midweek Wrap: Title in City's hands | Spurs show character in comeback | Sorry Chelsea lose again Apr 28, 2023

In a rare Premier League Midweek Wrap with all 20 teams playing over three days, Ron Walker takes you through Manchester City moving a step closer to the Premier League title after victory over Arsenal, with Adam Bate in place at the Etihad to see Mikel Arteta's side drop points for the fourth game in a row.
Sam Blitz and Nick Wright are at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as Spurs mount a creditable comeback to draw with Man Utd, while Joe Shread bears witness to another bad night for Chelsea at home to Brentford.
Sky Sports News' Keith Downie is at Goodison Park where Newcastle romp to victory over Everton, while Leeds and Leicester share the points in another relegation dogfight at Elland Road.
Nottingham Forest end their long winless streak to see off beaten FA Cup semi-finalists Brighton, and Peter Smith is at the London Stadium where Liverpool edge to victory over West Ham - but not without controversy.
Joe Shread again gives us his thoughts on Southampton's prospects after defeat to Bournemouth, Unai Emery's sensational run with Aston Villa continues and Adam Bate is back to talk us through Wolves' win over Crystal Palace.
And that's your Premier League Midweek Wrap!

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Arsenal's title hopes slip away | Newcastle run riot against Spurs | DCL's return to boost Everton? Apr 23, 2023

On the latest Essential Football Weekend Wrap, Oliver Yew takes you through the weekend's Premier League action starting at Emirates Stadium - where Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville discuss Arsenal's fading title hopes after a 3-3 draw with bottom of the table Southampton. Can the Gunners bounce back in style in midweek when they face Man City in a title showdown?
It wasn't a good weekend for the north London sides as Newcastle dismantled Tottenham 6-1 at St James' Park. Peter Smith runs through an extraordinary game which saw Newcastle score five goals - YES FIVE GOALS - in the opening 21 minutes.
Elsewhere, Nick Wright is at Selhurst Park and discusses striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin's return in Everton's 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace. There was a dramatic 3-2 win for Liverpool at Anfield against Nottingham Forest, while Leicester moved out of the bottom three with a much-needed 2-1 win over Wolves.
Finally, Sam Blitz gives his verdict on another defeat for Leeds, this time at Fulham, while Dan Sansom is with Sky Sports News reporter James Suvundra to discuss West Ham's emphatic 4-0 win at Bournemouth. Joe Shread then wraps things up as Aston Villa were held to a 1-1 draw at Brentford in a result that doesn't help both sides' European ambitions.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Man Utd's decade in the dark: 10 years without a Premier League trophy - an Essential Football special Apr 21, 2023

On a special edition of Essential Football 10 years almost to the day since Manchester United were last crowned Premier League champions, Zinny Boswell joins Ron Walker to discuss the club's lost decade in the dark.
Despite spending just shy of £1.5bn on players in that time, United have failed to reach the heights set by Sir Alex Ferguson - and fresh from writing a feature-length piece on 10 years of false dawns, Zinny charts where it's all gone wrong for the club in that time.
Featuring insight from inside and out of Old Trafford and interviews with former assistant manager Rene Muelensteen as well as long-time Guardian Man Utd correspondent Jamie Jackson - the man who elicited THAT 'Respect!' rant from Jose Mourinho, this is the story of Manchester United: A decade in the dark.
Read the article in full now on skysports.com.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: London chaos as Arsenal, Chelsea and Spurs all drop points; Man City rack up 10th straight win Apr 16, 2023

On the latest Essential Football Weekend Wrap, Ron Walker takes you through the weekend's action starting at the London Stadium - where Lewis Jones explains how Arsenal threw away a 2-0 lead for the second weekend in succession to draw 2-2 with West Ham.
That's far from the only dodgy result in the capital, with Peter Smith at Stamford Bridge to see Chelsea beaten 2-1 by Brighton, and Declan Olley in position as Bournemouth leave the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with a last-minute 3-2 win over Spurs.
Elsewhere, Adam Bate is at the Etihad Stadium for Man City's 10th win in a row over new Leicester boss Dean Smith, while Aston Villa rack up a fifth straight league win over Newcastle and Fulham bounce back to beat Everton 3-1 at Goodison Park.
Erik Ten Hag explains Antony's development after Manchester United win 2-0 at Nottingham Forest, with Ben Grounds in position at St Mary's to see Southampton take another step towards the Championship with a 2-0 home defeat by Crystal Palace.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

How many points to stay up this season? Michael Dawson previews Nottingham Forest v Man Utd and assesses relegation battle Apr 14, 2023

Sky Sports pundit and former Nottingham Forest captain Michael Dawson joins the Essential Football Podcast to look ahead to Sunday’s game between his old club and Manchester United.
With Forest winless in nine games, what are their chances of an upset win at the City Ground? Dawson analyses the game and reviews Forest’s return to the Premier League so far.
He also weighs up the wider relegation battle, suggesting how many points are needed for survival and why it is a scrap which looks set to go right down to the final day…

PL Weekend Wrap: Arsenal and Liverpool in thriller amid assistant ref controversy, while Stellini and De Zerbi clash on touchline Apr 09, 2023

On this weekend's Premier League Weekend Wrap, Arsenal and Liverpool played out a 2-2 thriller to damage the Gunners' title charge. Gary Neville argues why this could be a good point for Arsenal, while Dermot Gallagher analyses the assistant referee elbow incident on Andy Robertson.
Lewis Jones marvels in Erling Haaland's acrobatics as he reports from Manchester City's 4-1 win at Southampton. In the race for the top four, Pete Smith reports from a fiery Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the visit of Brighton, Dan Long discusses Newcastle's win at Brentford, while Jack Wilkinson takes in Manchester United's 2-0 win over Everton.
Paul Merson has some harsh words on Chelsea after their 1-0 loss at Wolves for Frank Lampard's return, while Ben Grounds reports from West Ham's crucial 1-0 win at Fulham.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Jamie Carragher’s Liverpool vs Arsenal preview: Will Arsenal cope with Anfield factor? | A damning verdict on Liverpool’s draw at Chelsea Apr 07, 2023

Jamie Carragher joins the Essential Football Podcast to look ahead to Sunday’s huge game between Liverpool and Arsenal at Anfield.
The Sky Sports pundit assesses the impact victory or defeat would have on the momentum of Arsenal’s title challenge, the selection issues for the home side in midfield – and why the Anfield factor transforms the complexion of this game between in-form Arsenal and struggling Liverpool.
Plus Carragher analyses the performances this season of Mohamed Salah and Bukayo Saka, the right-side stars for Liverpool and Arsenal.

PL Midweek Wrap: Newcastle turn up heat on West Ham | Chelsea, Liverpool show their struggles |Tight battles at top and bottom in focus Apr 05, 2023

On a special Premier League Midweek Wrap, we review the results which had a big impact in the tight race for the top-four and the even tighter battle to avoid relegation.
Lewis Jones reports from Newcastle’s thumping win at West Ham which piles the pressure on David Moyes and his side, Jack Wilkinson reflects on Man Utd’s return to winning ways with victory over Brentford and Dave Richardson looks at Leicester’s problems after their defeat to Aston Villa. We also hear from a concerned Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper and a rather more buoyant Roberto De Zerbi of Brighton.
Plus, Joe Shread analyses the goalless draw between Chelsea and Liverpool, with Frank Lampard primed to step in at Stamford Bridge.

PL Weekend Wrap: Potter sacked by Chelsea | Who's next at Stamford Bridge? | Man City thrash Liverpool but Arsenal stay eight clear at top Apr 02, 2023

On the latest Premier League Weekend Wrap, Graham Potter loses his job at Chelsea after defeat to Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge. Sky Sports News' chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol explains why the Blues have decided to part company with Potter and discusses who could be next with former Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann the early favourite to take over.
Away from the drama in west London, it's as you were in the title race after Man City and Arsenal both record 4-1 wins over Liverpool and Leeds respectively. Adam Bate discusses the events at the Etihad, while Oliver Yew gives his verdict on a nother good afternoon at the Emirates Stadium.
There's reaction as Newcastle blew the race for the top-four wide open, while Lewis Jones reacts to an enthralling 3-3 draw between Brighton and Brentford at the Amex Stadium.
And what more can you say about the battle to beat the drop? Roy Hodgson made a winning return to the dugout as Crystal palace beat Leicester - a result which saw Brendan Rodgers also leave his job on Sunday. Sky Sports News senior reporter Rob Dorsett discusses Rodgers' departure and Leicester's search for a new manager. Dan Sansom gives his verdict on Bournemouth's huge win against Fulham, while Ben Grounds was at the London Stadium to see West Ham record a huge win of there own.
And that's your Premier League weekend wrap!

England Special: Super Saka, Southgate's marvellous Maddison and a perfect Three Lions weekend? Mar 26, 2023

On an England special edition of Essential Football after Gareth Southgate's side begin Euro 2024 qualification with a perfect double of wins over Italy and Ukraine, Oliver Yew and Nick Wright reflect on the positives from Wembley as the Three Lions sign off until June in style.
Sky Sports News senior reporter Rob Dorsett also joins Ron Walker to discuss a perfect weekend for Southgate, the conscious changes the manager has made to his approach since the World Cup and some positive lessons about England's squad depth - despite the raft of withdrawals from his squad.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Tottenham meltdown, Everton hold Chelsea and Arsenal go eight points clear Mar 19, 2023

On the latest Premier League Weekend Wrap, Antonio Conte goes on a wild rant after his side throw away a 3-1 lead to draw at Southampton.
There's frustration for Chelsea too, with Joe Shread at Stamford Bridge to see Everton snatch a late point, but better news awaits for Arsenal, who thrash Crystal Palace 4-1 in front of Ben Grounds and David Richardson to go eight points clear at the top.
Jamie Carragher explains why Newcastle's win at Nottm Forest has put the cat among the top-four race pigeons, and Adam Bate assesses a pivotal win for Leeds at fellow strugglers Wolves.
David Brooks speaks to Sky Sports after his long-awaited return after recovering from cancer, and Peter Smith is at Brentford to see Leicester claim a point and finally end their losing run.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Antonio Conte rant special: Hear the Spurs boss' incredible outburst in full, plus Jamie Redknapp on why his position at Spurs is untenable Mar 18, 2023

"Tottenham's story is this. In 20 years there is this owner, and they never won anything - but why?"
Hear every moment of an extraordinary post-match eruption from Antonio Conte after Spurs threw away a 3-1 lead to draw 3-3 at Southampton in a special edition of Essential Football.
Are the Tottenham boss' incendiary remarks enough to see him ousted from his position? Former Spurs midfielder Jamie Redknapp tells Sky Sports why he thinks they could be.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Trossard delivers for Arsenal | Casemiro sees red again | Chelsea's resurgence continues Mar 12, 2023

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring pundit reaction, interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top-flight.
It's as you were in the Premier League title race as Arsenal and Man City secure wins at Fulham and Crystal Palace respectively. Leandro Trossard starred for Arsenal with three first-half assists, while Erling Haaland's 28th Premier League goal helped Man City keep the pressure on Mikel Arteta's side at the top. We have analsysis from both games from Nick Wright and Sam Blitz.
Peter Smith looks back on a thrilling 0-0 draw between Man Utd and Southampton as Casemiro saw red again, while Declan Olley gives his verdict on a much-needed win for Spurs.
We hear from Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who saw his side stunned by Bournemouth, Newcastle's Eddie Howe after the Magpies got back to winning ways against Wolves, and finally, David Richardson discusses a third win in a week for Chelsea and head coach Graham Potter.
Finally, it's getting tight at the bottom. Leeds rescued a point against Brighton, while West Ham were held at home to Aston Villa, and there was a big win for Everton this week as Sean Dyche's side moved up to 15th. We hear from Dyche, who says his side's mentality is growing.
And that's your Premier League weekend wrap!

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Liverpool humble Man Utd, Arsenal back from the brink, Chelsea unconvincing in victory Mar 05, 2023

On a dramatic weekend in the Premier League, we start off at Anfield where Roy Keane dissects Man Utd's battering at the hands of Liverpool, before Mo Salah explains how long he has waited to become the Reds' all-time top goalscorer.
It's then down to London for a fairytale Arsenal comeback to earn a 97th-minute win over Bournemouth, as witnessed by Sam Blitz at the Emirates.
Back up in the North West, Pete Smith was our man at the Etihad to wax lyrical over Phil Foden and express his concerns over goal-shy Newcastle after the hosts' 2-0 win to keep up their title hopes.
Dave Richardson explains why Chelsea's 1-0 win over Leeds won't bring too much comfort to under-fire Graham Potter, while Declan Rice lays bare the hurt of West Ham's 4-0 defeat at Brighton in conversation with Sky Sports.
Adam Bate tries to pick the bones out of an archetypal game of two halves as Wolves shock Tottenham 1-0 at Molineux, and Dan Sansom sets out exactly the size of Southampton's 1-0 win over Leicester to lift them off the bottom of the table.
Last but not least, there's Everton's draw at Nottm Forest and Aston Villa's 1-0 win over Crystal Palace.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Managers special with Neil Lennon and Matt Taylor on Cyprus, Celtic, 40-yarders & lessons from Big Sam & Dyche Feb 28, 2023

Simeon Gholam is joined by Sky Sports presenter David Prutton and special guests Neil Lennon and Matt Taylor for a frank look at management, being out of work and their careers as players.
The trio take a look back at their various meetings throughout their careers as players, before Lennon discusses his recent experiences managing Omonia in Cyprus - including a very memorable cup final win and a run-in with a referee! - while Taylor looks back on his stint at Walsall in League Two, and what he has done since he has been out of management.
Lennon also discusses playing under Martin O'Neill, some of his experiences at Celtic, the highlights of career and what he hopes his next steps are.
Taylor speaks about what he has learned in the past 12 months, while also discussing the most inspirational managerial figures in his career, with stories about Sam Allardyce and Sean Dyche in particular during his time as a player for the likes of Portsmouth, West Ham and Burnley.

Man Utd win the Carabao Cup: Is this the start of something special for Erik ten Hag's side? How will Newcastle respond to defeat? Feb 26, 2023

Sky Sports digital football journalists Simeon Gholam and Zinny Boswell give their full-time reaction as Manchester United beat Newcastle United to win the Carabao Cup at Wembley.
It's Man Utd's first trophy since 2017 and the first of the Erik ten Hag era, while Newcastle's long wait for silverware continues.
Sky Sports News reporters Dharmesh Sheth and Keith Downie join Simeon to discuss what victory means for Man Utd and how Newcastle will respond to their Wembley disappointment.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: More problems for Potter at Spurs | West Ham relieve pressure on Moyes | Do Arsenal have mark of champions? Feb 26, 2023

On the latest Premier League Weekend Wrap, we start at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium where Declan Olley and Joe Shread have been watching Spurs' first league win over Chelsea in nine attempts - raising the temperature yet further on Graham Potter.
Lewis Jones was at the London Stadium to watch David Moyes show why he is the best man to get West Ham out of trouble, while Ben Grounds watched Man City's return to form with a thumping win at Bournemouth.
Ron Walker explains why Everton's defeat to Aston Villa should worry fans and manager alike, and Joe Shread analyses why Arsenal might just have the mark of Premier League champions.
David Richardson was at Selhurst Park to watch Liverpool battle to a goalless draw with Crystal Palace, Ruben Selles was left to explain why his Southampton side were so poor in a 1-0 defeat at Leeds, and Ben Grounds was at Fulham on Friday night as they earned a point against Wolves despite being far from their best.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Carabao Cup final: Rashford’s Wembley redemption? | Will Karius shock his critics? | The Brazil battle in midfield Feb 24, 2023

Ahead of the Carabao Cup final on Sunday, we take an in-depth look at the Wembley showdown between Man Utd and Newcastle.
Will Marcus Rashford continue his Man Utd goal-scoring form on his first return to the national stadium since the Euro 2020 final? How will goalkeeper Loris Karius cope with the pressure of the big game after his Champions League nightmare with Liverpool? And who will win the battle of Brazil in midfield, when Bruno Guimaraes goes up against international team-mates Casemiro and Fred?
We also hear from Sky Sports pundit Michael Dawson on just what it takes to win a Wembley final and what the players will be going through before and during the big day.

A deep dive into Liverpool's deep dive: Recruitment mistakes, brain drain and burnout at Anfield Feb 23, 2023

On an Essential Football podcast assessing where Liverpool's season has hit the rocks - again - after a 5-2 thrashing by Real Madrid on Tuesday night, Sky Sports News reporter Melissa Reddy joins Ron Walker to discuss the size of the problems at Anfield.
Melissa gives her analysis into the scale of Liverpool's ongoing issues, why their resurgence before this week was another false dawn, and explains what behind-the-scenes issues are affecting matters on the pitch.
With sporting director Michael Edwards and FSG president Michael Gordon either gone or moved away from the Liverpool frontline, how much trouble are Liverpool in - and how do they go about fixing it?

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Advantage Arsenal again | Spurs into fourth | Pressure piling up on Potter Feb 20, 2023

It’s been another Premier League round packed with drama and it finished with a change at the top, a new arrival in the top four and some serious shifts in and around the relegation zone.
Struggling to keep up with it all? Don’t fear! Your Premier League Weekend Wrap is here!
Listen in for the lowdown on Newcastle’s ‘keeper crisis, another big Goodison Park win for Sean Dyche, a potentially decisive day for Arsenal and much, much more as Peter Smith and Sky Sports journalists and pundits round up the action...

Alan Smith exclusive: Can Arsenal bounce back? Will Liverpool finish in the top four? Can Spurs shake off their inconsistency? Feb 16, 2023

On the latest Essential Football, Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith joins Ron Walker to look ahead to the weekend’s Premier League action.
With Arsenal knocked off the top of the table, how will Mikel Arteta’s side react with a Saturday lunchtime kick-off at Aston Villa? Will the game have an extra spark for Villa boss Unai Emery after his bruising spell at the Emirates Stadium?
In the Saturday Night Football match at St James’ Park, will Liverpool return to Sky Sports with another victory after the Merseyside Derby win? Can they realistically still make the top four?
Newcastle have drawn four out of their last five – how much of a concern is that, and what impact does the Carabao Cup final next weekend have on Eddie Howe’s players?
Tottenham are live on Super Sunday against West Ham. Can they shake off their inconsistency against their London rivals? And how green are the shoots of recovery David Moyes has overseen at the London Stadium?

Premier League Weekend Wrap: VAR's error-filled weekend | Is this a three-way title race? Feb 12, 2023

Essential Football is back with a Weekend Wrap of the Premier League's fixtures this weekend.
It was a difficult few days for VAR, as the PGMOL admitted two mistakes in Arsenal's draw against Brentford and Brighton's stalemate at Crystal Palace. David Richardson looks at the Gunners' 1-1 draw against the Bees, which has opened up the title race following Manchester City's Super Sunday victory over Aston Villa. Meanwhile, Manchester United may be in the title fold following their win at Leeds.
Elsewhere, Joe Shread analyses Brighton's 1-1 draw at Palace, while Lewis Jones and Nick Wright run the line through another stalemate of the same scoreline between West Ham and Chelsea.
Paul Gilmour watched Nathan Jones' last game as Southampton manager - a 2-1 home loss to Wolves, while Sam Blitz goes through Fulham's win over Nottingham Forest at Craven Cottage.
We also have analysis from Leicester's 4-1 victory over a sorry Tottenham side, with Newcastle drawing 1-1 at Bournemouth.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

The European Super League - back with a vengeance? All the big questions answered Feb 10, 2023

On another special edition of Essential Football, we get to the bottom of the return of the European Super League after their backers released a 10-point plan for the future of the continental game on Thursday.
Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports News' Kaveh Solhekol and Rob Dorsett to explain what's different this time, who exactly are the 'A22' group behind the plans and how realistic they are - as well as whether any English clubs could be tempted to get involved again.
Jamie Carragher also gives us his views on why the idea won't get off the ground, and A22 CEO Bernd Reichart tells Sky Sports why he believes the league wouldn't need involvement from all of Europe's biggest clubs to get off the ground.

Merseyside Derby preview: Jamie Carragher on Liverpool's worst spell under Klopp and Everton's Dyche resurgence Feb 09, 2023

On the latest edition of Essential Football, Jamie Carragher joins Ron Walker to preview this weekend's Merseyside Derby between out-of-form Liverpool and Sean Dyche's Everton.
Carragher assesses why Liverpool have hit what he calls their worst spell under Jurgen Klopp, how he's trying to fix it and whether he might repeat his Dortmund exit and call it quits at the end of the season.
He also looks at what Sean Dyche has already changed at Goodison Park, whether this is the ideal time for him to take his Toffee side to Anfield and how quickly he can turn things around at the club.

The Premier League's Man City investigation: Explained from all angles Feb 07, 2023

On Monday morning, the Premier League announced a shock raft of charges into six-time champions Manchester City, concerning more than 100 breaches of its regulations spanning almost a decade.
An investigation of this size is unprecedented in the league's 30-year history - and could have serious ramifications for the club if the charges are all proven.
But what are City charged with, and why? It's taken more than three years to get to this point - so how long will the investigation last? And what do City, and their Premier League rivals, make of it all?
Ron Walker introduces Sky Sports News chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol, reporter Mark McAdam and football finance expert Kieran Maguire to explain the details of one of the biggest bombshell revelations in Premier League history.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Record-breaking Kane downs Man City | Arsenal slip up at Everton | Wolves thump Liverpool Feb 05, 2023

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring reporter analysis from up and down the top flight.
Ron Walker and Zinny Boswell reflect on Harry Kane breaking Tottenham’s all-time scoring record as Spurs beat Manchester City, who missed the chance to close the gap on Arsenal, with Oliver Yew looking at their surprise defeat at Everton in Sean Dyche’s first game as Toffees manager.
Ron Walker was also at Old Trafford as 10-man Manchester United saw off Crystal Palace, while Adam Bate witnessed Wolves thump a sorry Liverpool at Molineux.
Peter Smith and Nick Wright watched Enzo Fernandez – the Premier League’s most expensive ever signing – make his debut as Chelsea were held by neighbours Fulham, while Sam Blitz saw Southampton slump at Brentford and Lewis Jones followed Brighton’s late win over Bournemouth.
We also have analysis and reaction as West Ham claimed a draw at Newcastle, Nottingham Forest handed Leeds another defeat and Leicester won a thriller at Aston Villa.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

The making of Eddie Howe: From the bottom of League Two to the Carabao Cup final Feb 01, 2023

On the latest Essential Football episode we take a closer look at the rise of Eddie Howe. The Newcastle boss will celebrate 600 games as a manager when he takes charge of the Magpies at home to West Ham on Saturday – live on Sky Sports – as they continue their pursuit of Champions League football. Howe has also led Newcastle to their first cup final for 24 years – some rise for a manager that began his career in charge of a Bournemouth side that were bottom of the Football League and in danger of going out of business 15 years ago. Sky Sports reporters Mark McAdam – who worked with Howe at Bournemouth - and Keith Downie join Peter Smith to discuss the standout moments in the manager’s career, what he’s like away from the dugout, and what the future holds.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Arsenal edge United in thriller | Haaland on course for 50 goals | Pressure builds on Lampard at Everton Jan 22, 2023

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring reporter analysis from up and down the top-flight.
Richard Morgan looks back at a thrilling contest between Arsenal and Manchester United, which saw the Gunners maintain their five-point lead to Man City at the top of the Premier League with a 3-2 victory. Can Arsenal be stopped in their quest to bring the title back to north London?
Erling Haaland and Man City will be doing their utmost to stop Mikel Arteta’s side. They beat Wolves 3-0 as Haaland scored yet another hat-trick and Adam Bate gives his reaction to the Norwegian’s scoring exploits.
There’s analysis from the 0-0 draws between Liverpool and Chelsea and Crystal Palace, while Lewis Jones reacts to what could prove to be a crucial win for West Ham and David Moyes against Everton. Defeat leaves the Toffees deep in the relegation mire and Frank Lampard under huge pressure.
We also hear about wins for Aston Villa and draws between Leicester and Brighton, Leeds and Brentford, and Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Derby bragging rights for Man Utd and Arsenal | Problems continue for Everton and Liverpool Jan 15, 2023

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring reporter analysis and manager reaction from up and down the top-flight
Peter Smith looks back at Manchester United’s derby win over Man City. Are United now in the title race? Arsenal extended their lead at the top of a table with a derby win of their own. Mikel Arteta’s side beat Tottenham 2-0 to open up an eight-point gap. Nick Wright gives his verdict on a pulsating North London derby at the Tottenham Hotspurs Stadium.
There’s reaction from Newcastle’s late win against Fulham and Chelsea’s much-needed victory against Crystal Palace, while there is analysis of the continued problems on Merseyside as Liverpool lost to Brighton and Everton were defeated by Southampton.
We also hear about wins for Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Wolves and Brentford.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Premier League return: Why it won't just be a 'World Cup hangover' affecting Qatar returnees Dec 23, 2022

Essential Football is back - and so is the Premier League after the World Cup break.
Looking ahead to the resumption of the top flight, Ron Walker is joined by mental performance consultant Mark Bowden to analyse why such a short turnaround may affect players over the next few games - without them even realising it.

World Cup final: Messi’s moment, a superb tournament on the pitch, if not always off it – plus Southgate stays reaction Dec 18, 2022

It’s the final Sky Sports World Cup podcast! Lionel Messi has his hands on the trophy at long last. Joining Ron Walker to look back on a sensational five weeks of football is Sky Sports News senior reporter Rob Dorsett.
Up for discussion are the final itself, where France got their second wind and how Messi shut down the GOAT debate once and for all, as well as what’s next for Didier Deschamps and how Kylian Mbappe still showed his greatness in defeat.
Also on the agenda is the legacy the tournament will leave – for good and bad – the nightmare transport issues at the Lusail Stadium and whether progress really is on the agenda for human rights in Qatar.
Finally, there’s reaction to the news Gareth Southgate will stay on as England manager, the reasons for his decision and his hopes of keeping fans onside ahead of Euro 2024.

Gary Neville's World Cup Awards | Messi best player? Ronaldo been a flop? Should Southgate stay? Dec 15, 2022

On the latest episode of Sky Sports' World Cup podcast, host Joe Thomlinson is joined by Gary Neville to discuss who he thinks has been the tournament's best player, best youngster, biggest flop and many more. Plus, he grades the overall performance of England and has his say on the future of manager Gareth Southgate.
Sky Sports News' Pete Graves also joins the podcast to run through the players whose stock has risen the most throughout the tournament and who he thinks will be top of the Premier League clubs’ wishlist come January.

England fallout: Was that Southgate's last game? Where next for England? Plus: France vs Morocco, Argentina vs Croatia preview Dec 12, 2022

Following England's defeat in the World Cup quarter-finals, Ron Walker and Nick Wright are joined by Kaveh Solhekol to discuss Gareth Southgate's future, whether he will stay in post for the Euro 2024 campaign and the legacy he has created around the Three Lions.
Geraint Hughes also joins us to assess the semi-final line-up and ask whether Morocco can continue to make history, if France are better than they thought, how Croatia are defying the odds again - and whether it's written in the stars for Lionel Messi.

England vs France review: Kane’s penalty heartbreak, Saka substitution and will Southgate remain? Dec 10, 2022

On the latest episode of the Sky Sports World Cup podcast, host Joe Thomlinson is joined by Jamie Redknapp to dissect England’s devastating 2-1 quarter-final defeat to holders France.
They discuss Harry Kane’s pivotal missed penalty, whether Bukayo Saka should have been substituted and if Gareth Southgate’s time in charge is coming to an end.
Sky Sports News senior reporter Rob Dorsett then provides an insight into the England dressing room following their heartbreaking loss.

The big quarter-final preview! Can Walker stop Mbappe? Does this define Southgate's legacy? Will Messi go all the way? Dec 08, 2022

On the latest Sky Sports World Cup podcast, host Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports senior reporter Melissa Reddy and French football expert Jonathan Johnson to look ahead to England’s huge quarter-final clash with France on Saturday.
They discuss if England’s squad depth gives them the edge, whether Kyle Walker can limit Kylian Mbappe's influence and how Gareth Southgate’s tournament success could prove vital.
Sky Sports News reporter Geraint Hughes then previews the other three quarter-finals as Brazil meet Croatia, Argentina take on Netherlands and Portugal face Morocco. Is Cristiano Ronaldo's future from the bench, and will Lionel Messi get the all-important final jewel in his crown?

England vs Senegal review: Bellingham's brilliance, mad hotel celebrations - and is 4-3-3 going all the way? Dec 05, 2022

On the latest episode of the Sky Sports World Cup podcast, host Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports News senior reporter Rob Dorsett to chew over the fat of England's 3-0 win over Senegal in the last-16 on Sunday night.
On the agenda are the big celebrations which marked the Three Lions' return to base camp, and why Gareth Southgate might not have enjoyed them too much, Jude Bellingham's sensational form and whether England might just stick with a 4-3-3 against world champions France on Saturday - plus much more.

Rashford or Saka vs Senegal? | Great selection headache! | Will Maguire leave United? Dec 02, 2022

Joe Thomlinson is joined by Dharmesh Sheth and James Allcott to look ahead to Sunday's huge knockout game against Senegal. They discuss the selection conundrums facing Gareth Southgate, the threat posed by the Aliou Cisse's side and Harry Maguire's future after the tournament.

What’s been the key to Rashford's revival? | England's best front three? | What next for Bale? Nov 29, 2022

In episode seven of Sky Sports' World Cup podcast, host Joe Thomlinson is joined by Jamie Redknapp to discuss a Marcus Rashford inspired England win over Wales and the threats that await Gareth Southgate's men in the next round.
Sky Sports News' Geraint Hughes also joins the podcast from Doha to discuss where Wales go from here and what next for their ageing talisman Gareth Bale.

England vs Wales preview: Will Foden get his chance? Could this be Bale's final game? Nov 28, 2022

In episode six of Sky Sports' World Cup podcast host Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports News reporters Kaveh Solhekol and Geraint Hughes. They debate whether England should be concerned by the USA performance and if Wales big players will peak on Tuesday night?

Why no Foden? | Are Wales too reliant on Bale and Ramsey? Nov 25, 2022

In episode five of the Sky Sports World Cup podcast host Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports News' Rob Dorsett and Geraint Hughes to look back on a tough day for the home nations. They discuss if Harry Kane was injured and is Wales' World Cup adventure over already?

Can England continue exciting form? | Beware the underdogs! Nov 24, 2022

In episode four of Sky Sports' World Cup podcast, host Joe Thomlinson is joined by former England defender Jamie Carragher to discuss the USA game and whether we’ll see another thrilling performance. Plus Geraint Hughes talks about the crucial role Kieffer Moore could have for Wales.

'Role model' Bellingham takes England to victory! Is Saka one of the best wingers in Europe? Nov 22, 2022

In episode three of Sky Sports' World Cup podcast, host Joe Thomlinson is joined by former England international Jamie Redknapp to discuss the impressive result pioneered by Jude Bellingham that claimed England's first victory at the tournament.
Sky Sports News' Geraint Hughes also joins the podcast from Doha to discuss the result from the Wales game against the USA.

World Cup opening day has arrived! Who will Southgate start against Iran? Is Bale fit enough to play for Wales? Nov 20, 2022

In episode two of Sky Sports' World Cup podcast, host Joe Thomlinson is joined by former England international Karen Carney to discuss who they think will start for England in their opening Group B match against Iran.
Sky Sports News' Geraint Hughes also joins the podcast from Doha to reveal how the Wales squad is settling into life in Qatar ahead of their first World Cup for 64 years!

World Cup preview: What are England and Wales’ true hopes? Will this be Southgate’s swansong? Plus why Doha is still a ‘work in progress’ Nov 15, 2022

The Sky Sports World Cup podcast is here!
In the first edition, host Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports News’ trio Rob Dorsett, Melissa Reddy and Geraint Hughes for all the latest on the build-up to the tournament, from inside the Wales and England camps and on the ground in Qatar.
What is the minimum expectation for England, and could this be Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions swansong? Is it too superstitious to read into squad numbers? The back three vs back four debate returns, plus whether the team adapt to the sweltering heat of Qatar.
What is life like on the ground in Doha? Why does it still feel like there’s work to be done five days before kick-off in Qatar, and is everyone on top of each other? Plus the most important question – what’s the food like?
From a Wales perspective, how much does beating England make or break their World Cup? Who are Rob Page’s top three hopes of success and who could be their wildcard? And how well does Geraint know the fan favourite Yma o Hyd ahead of Monday’s opener with the USA…

Cristiano Ronaldo ‘betrayal’ special: Why did he go public, what will happen next and has an unhappy exit always been on the cards Nov 14, 2022

Cristiano Ronaldo has gone public about his unhappiness at Manchester United – saying he feels ‘betrayed’ by the club and that Erik Ten Hag and other members of staff are trying to force him out.
On a special edition of Essential Football, Ron Walker speaks to Sky Sports News reporters Kaveh Solhekol and Melissa Reddy to get the inside line on what’s going on in the minds of both the club and the player – and how they would deal with his departure.
Why did he do the interview? Will he ever play for United again? How did they find out, and how will they react? Found out the answer to those questions and more.

Weekend Wrap: Brentford cause a shock at Man City | Chaotic Spurs earn another dramatic win | Newcastle dent Chelsea’s top-four hopes Nov 13, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's final Premier League matches before the World Cup, featuring reaction, interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top-flight.
PART ONE | There’s reaction from both camps as Ivan Toney hits back at his England snub with a double to earn Brentford a shock win at Man City, Lewis Jones gives his assessment as Spurs keep up their penchant for drama with a late win over Leeds and Graham Potter explains where it’s all gone wrong as Chelsea are beaten again at Newcastle.
PART TWO | Ben Grounds pores over Everton’s latest setback and their fans’ anger after a 3-0 reverse at Bournemouth, Nick Wright is in west London as Alejandro Garnacho announces himself with a last-minute winner to beat Fulham, and Martin Odegaard and Aaron Ramsdale explain the tactical tweaks which earned Arsenal a 2-0 victory at Wolves.
PART THREE | Charlotte Marsh assesses Leicester’s resurgence with another win at booed-off West Ham, Steve Cooper looks at the positives as Nottingham Forest move off the bottom of the table with victory over Crystal Palace, Unai Emery’s start to life at Aston Villa continues on its upward trend with a 2-1 win at Brighton, and Jurgen Klopp says he’s happy with Liverpool’s points tally – despite sitting seven points off the top four.
And that’s your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Where Arsenal must strengthen in January | Newcastle to finish above Chelsea? | Dilemmas for Ten Hag at Man Utd Nov 11, 2022

Essential Football is back ahead of the final weekend of Premier League football before the World Cup break!
We hear from Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Wolves – can the Gunners grab the Christmas No1 spot? And what do they need to do on the pitch and in the transfer window to maintain their title challenge in the New Year?
Peter Smith is then joined by Sky Sports journalists Nick Wright and Joe Shread to discuss what’s going right for Eddie Howe’s Newcastle – and what’s going wrong for Graham Potter’s Chelsea, ahead of their clash at St James’ Park.
The panel also reflect on Man Utd’s chaotic Carabao Cup win over Aston Villa, the problems Erik ten Hag has at both ends of the pitch and in midfield at United and the impact Unai Emery is having at Villa.

England squad reaction: Alan Smith's thoughts on Southgate's squad, Maddison, Kane's 'fatigue' and England's hopes in Qatar Nov 10, 2022

On a special snap Essential Football podcast in the wake of Gareth Southgate's England squad announcement, Ron Walker speaks to Alan Smith about the 26 men heading for Qatar - and a few of those who aren't.
After James Maddison's surprise inclusion, the former Leicester striker assesses Gareth Southgate's decision to take him to the World Cup, discusses the blend of players in Qatar and Callum Wilson's inclusion - especially after Antonio Conte said England captain Harry Kane was suffering with 'fatigue' in midweek.
He also rates England's chances of success in Qatar and gives us his first XI for the finals...

Weekend Wrap: Arsenal beat Chelsea to stay top | Ten Hag unimpressed as Villa beat Man Utd | Haaland returns to save City late on Nov 06, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring reaction, interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top-flight.
PART ONE | Sam Blitz and Joe Shread look back on Arsenal's derby win over Chelsea to take them top of the table, before Erik Ten Hag fumes at Man Utd's performance in their loss to Aston Villa and Harry Kane explains why Spurs' defeat by Liverpool sums up their season.
PART TWO | Ralph Hasenhuttl goes on the defensive as his Southampton side slip into the bottom three after a 4-1 hammering by Newcastle, while Marco Silva is left disappointed - but not disheartened - by Fulham's last-minute defeat at Man City. David Moyes is less impressed, though, by his West Ham side as they are deservedly beaten late on by Crystal Palace.
PART THREE | Dan Sansom attempts to sum up a seven-goal thriller which Leeds emerged victorious from against Bournemouth on Saturday, while Adam Bate does likewise about Brighton's topsy-turvy 3-2 win at Wolves. Brendan Rodgers makes the case for James Maddison to go to the World Cup - and Nottm Forest rescue a last-minute draw with Brentford.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Substance over style for Spurs but time for changes at Liverpool? Jamie Redknapp’s Super Sunday preview Nov 04, 2022

Essential Football is back with a dive into Super Sunday’s big showdown in north London between Tottenham and Liverpool. Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp to analyse the clash and discuss how the sides will match up and assess their respective campaigns so far.
For Tottenham, third in the Premier League and winners of their Champions League group certainly looks good on paper – but are questions about their style of play becoming a problem? And what’s going wrong at Liverpool? It’s the million dollar question as Jurgen Klopp seeks solutions to his side’s inconsistent form. Listen in for Redknapp’s verdict on the two sides and his big match prediction.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Liverpool’s struggles continue | Brighton stun Potter’s Chelsea | Rashford’s 100th goal inspires Man Utd Oct 30, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring pundit reaction and reporter analysis from up and down the top-flight.
Nick Wright looks back at another defeat for Liverpool as Leeds ensured Jurgen Klopp’s side’s poor start to the season continued, while there is analysis of Graham Potter’s difficult afternoon back at Brighton and Tottenham’s dramatic comeback at Bournemouth.
Kevin De Bruyne’s stunning free kick sent Man City to the top of the Premier League after a 1-0 win at Leicester, but Arsenal made sure there stay at the top was only temporary as they thrashed Nottingham Forest 5-0 on Sunday.
We also hear about win for Newcastle and Crystal Palace, while Sam Blitz and Ben Grounds deliver their verdicts on draws between Brentford and Wolves, and Fulham and Everton.
Finally, Gary Neville delivers his verdict on Marcus Rashford's performance and happiness after the forward was the matchwinner, scored his 100th goal for Manchester United in their 1-0 win over West Ham on Super Sunday.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Weekend Wrap: Chelsea, United share spoils | Forest dent faltering Liverpool's recovery | Newcastle end Spurs' home run Oct 23, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring pundit reaction, interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top-flight.
PART ONE | Gary Neville and Roy Keane tussle over Cristiano Ronaldo while Ron Walker and Jack Wilkinson look back on a chess-like encounter between Chelsea and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge. Elsewhere, Adam Bate reflects on a superb Nottm Forest win over Liverpool, while Ben Grounds is impressed by the team Eddie Howe is building as Newcastle win at Tottenham.
PART TWO | After Steven Gerrard was sacked on Thursday, the real Aston Villa return with a bang to thrash Brentford 4-0 at Villa Park - leaving caretaker manager Aaron Danks understandably delighted. A similarly big weekend for Everton, with a 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Goodison Park, is another observed by jet-setter Ben Grounds, while Leeds' latest defeat leaves Jesse Marsch defiant about his future.
PART THREE | Les Ferdinand and Jamie Redknapp both accentuate the positives despite Arsenal dropping points at Southampton, but there is little positivity at Molineux where Wolves caretaker boss Steve Davis reacts to his side being booed off after a 4-0 hammering by Leicester. Lastly, Man City move two points off the top with a 3-1 win over Brighton at the Etihad.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Is Ronaldo's time up at Old Trafford? Are Arsenal genuine title contenders? Do Spurs performances need to improve? Oct 21, 2022

Essential Football is back hot on the heels of the news Steven Gerrard has been sacked as Aston Villa boss and with three big games for Ron Walker, Pete Smith, Declan Olley and Jack Wilkinson to preview in the shape of Chelsea vs Man Utd, Southampton vs Arsenal and Tottenham vs Newcastle.
PART ONE | After we look back on Gerrard's dismissal, is this the end of the road for Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford with the announcement he won't feature at Stamford Bridge? What's Erik Ten Hag been doing so right in his opening 10 games and what's clicked for his opposite number, Graham Potter? Whose style will rule victorious on Saturday night, and who will be the game changers?
PART TWO | Should Arsenal now be talked about as genuine title contenders? What's stopping them challenging Man City for the league? Is Ralph Hasenhuttl lucky still to be in charge at Southampton, or does he deserve time to turn things around? Plus why Spurs' performances and results just haven't matched up, and why Newcastle can hurt them in north London on Super Sunday.

What's going wrong at Wolves, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa? | Can Brendan Rodgers turn things around at Leicester? Oct 19, 2022

On the latest episode of Essential Football, we take a closer look at the Midlands teams in the Premier League.
Sky Sports News senior reporter Rob Dorsett and Sky Sports football features writer Adam Bate join Danyal Khan to take a more in-depth look at Aston Villa, Leicester, Wolves and Nottingham Forest and their struggles so far this season.
With all four currently in the bottom five of the Premier League, we ask what is going wrong at the Midlands clubs in the top-flight?

Weekend Wrap: Liverpool reignite season with Man City win | Ten Hag sees positives in Newcastle draw | Arsenal labour to win at Leeds Oct 16, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring pundit reaction, interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top-flight.
PART ONE | Pep Guardiola is left less than impressed by Anthony Taylor as Liverpool beat Man City 1-0 at Anfield, while Jamie Carragher highlights where the Reds had improved from their poor early-season form. Sam Blitz explains by Arsenal were fortunate to come away with three points from Leeds on Super Sunday, while Nick Wright assesses a change in shape which helped Spurs to a 2-0 win over Everton.
PART TWO | Erik Ten Hag looks at the positives - more than Sky Sports News guest Jamie O'Hara - after Man Utd draw a blank at home to Newcastle, Dave Richardson looks back on a humdinger of a 2-2 draw between Fulham and Bournemouth and Steven Gerrard defends his side after they are beaten 2-0 at home by Chelsea.
PART THREE | Dan Sansom makes the case for Ralph Hasenhuttl to hang on despite another winless game for Southampton, Ben Grounds for Ivan Toney to go to the World Cup and Steve Cooper on why his Nottm Forest side were harshly treated in their defeat at Nottm Forest, while Leicester fans are less than impressed by Brendan Rodgers after their stalemate with Crystal Palace.
And that's your Premier League Weekend Wrap!

Jamie Carragher and Jurgen Klopp on Liverpool vs Man City – Form, key battles and Carra’s big match prediction Oct 14, 2022

On the latest Essential Football episode we take an in-depth look at Super Sunday’s huge clash at Anfield between Liverpool and Manchester City.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher sits down with Peter Smith to assess the contest, Liverpool’s mixed form and the challenge the Reds face against their in-form rivals.
We then hear an exclusive interview with Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp. He tells Jack Wilkinson about how their big win over Rangers transformed the mood in the camp, explains the threat of Erling Haaland and outlines his team’s plan of attack this weekend.

What’s gone wrong at Liverpool? Form, fitness and bigger problems for Jurgen Klopp Oct 11, 2022

On the latest Essential Football episode we take a closer look at the problems at Liverpool, after their defeat at Arsenal left them already 14 points off top spot in the Premier League.
Sky Sports News’ senior reporter Melissa Reddy and Sky Sports’ senior football journalist Richard Morgan join Peter Smith to assess the wider issues at the club – and the form and fitness worries compounding those problems.
From mis-steps in the transfer window to the team’s tactical evolution under Jurgen Klopp the panel discuss how a team which was going for an unprecedented quadruple earlier this year is now languishing in mid-table a long way off the early pace setters in the Premier League.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Arsenal show resolve to beat Liverpool | Guimaraes stars for Newcastle | Emotional win for Spurs Oct 09, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring pundit reaction, interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top-flight.
Gary Neville delivers his verdict on the title chances of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal after they beat Liverpool in a 3-2 thriller at the Emirates to go back top of the Premier League table, while Jamie Redknapp analyses what’s going wrong for Jurgen Klopp’s side. We also hear from Newcastle boss Eddie Howe on a brilliant two-goal display from Bruno Guimaraes in their big win over Brentford, reflect on a landmark goal for Cristiano Ronaldo in Manchester United’s win at Everton and get reports on the controversial incidents in West Ham’s victory over Fulham.
Plus, we hear how there are warning signs for Jesse Marsch after a positive start from Leeds ended up with them losing 2-1 at Crystal Palace, and an emotional Harry Kane pays tribute to Tottenham’s fitness coach Gian Piero Ventrone, who passed away this week. The Spurs striker dedicated his team’s win at Brighton to the Italian.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Hat-trick heroes Haaland and Foden stun Man Utd | Are Arsenal in the title race? | Liverpool start slow again Oct 02, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring pundit reaction, interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top-flight.
PART ONE | There’s only one place to start and that’s Manchester City’s 6-3 Manchester derby win over rivals Manchester United. We hear from Kevin De Bruyne, Pep Guardiol and Erik ten Hag before Gary Neville and Roy Keane have their say on events at the Etihad Stadium. Peter Smith, Nick Wright and Ben Ground, who covered the game for Sky Sports’ digital platforms, dissect the game, from City’s hat-trick heroes in Erling Haaland and Phil Foden to another slow United start and Cristiano Ronaldo’s non-selection.
PART TWO | Arsenal have the north London bragging rights after a 3-1 victory over rivals Spurs. Are Mikel Arteta’s side in the title race? Sam Blitz and Nick Wright have their say. We then round up the rest of Saturday’s action as Liverpool are held again this time by Brighton, Connor Gallagher returns to break Crystal Palace hearts and hand Graham Potter a first win a Chelsea boss, and there are wins fro Newcastle, Everton and West Ham.
And that's your Premier League weekend wrap!

Derby Day weekend: Who will reign victorious in Manchester and North London? Plus: Graham Potter's league bow and managers under pressure Sep 29, 2022

In this week’s Essential Football Premier League preview Ron Walker, Pete Smith and Joe Shread take an in-depth look at the first Manchester and North London derbies of the season.
PART ONE | Both sides come into Sunday's Manchester derby in fine form - have we seen the best of Man City so far, and how has Erik Ten Hag turned Man Utd's fortunes around so quickly? There's some big claims over Erling Haaland's brilliance already - and that of unlikely hero Lisandro Martinez too.
PART TWO | Who has the upper hand going into Saturday's North London derby? Arsenal's Thomas Partey stats lay bare how important his fitness will be to Mikel Arteta, while Heung-Min Son's sudden resurgence is also on the agenda. Despite only leading them for one game, there's some talking points from the type of Chelsea side we can expect to see - and the tough challenge facing them at Selhurst Park on Saturday.
PART THREE | Some of the question marks hanging over Brendan Rodgers' Leicester future, and Steve Cooper's at Nottingham Forest, are answered ahead of the pair going head-to-head on Monday Night Football. Plus those around Steven Gerrard, whose Aston Villa side face a potential crunch clash at Leeds on Super Sunday.

Gary Neville Q&A on those Super League plans, why it is time for change in English football and more Sep 27, 2022

In this in-depth interview with Sky Sports to coincide with the release of his new book The People’s Game: A View from A Front Seat in Football, Gary Neville talks us through those Super League plans and why he believes it is time for English football to change...

England 3-3 Germany: Rollercoaster draw assessed | What it means for the World Cup | Who boosted their chances of making the squad? Sep 26, 2022

After England’s rollercoaster 3-3 draw with Germany in their final game before the 2022 World Cup, Peter Smith is joined by Charlotte Marsh at Wembley to discuss where the game now leaves Gareth Southgate’s side ahead of Qatar, who impressed for a place on the plane and who could potentially miss out...
Plus we hear from the England manager himself as he assesses the Nations League fixture and how coming through a tough period could be a positive for his side going into the tournament.

Essential Football: England’s final World Cup warm-up, questions for Southgate, Nations League relegation? Sep 21, 2022

Ahead of England’s final games ahead of November’s World Cup opener, Essential Football looks forward to the Three Lions taking on Italy and Germany as they look to avoid relegation from the top tier of the Nations League.
Ron Walker and Peter Smith are joined by Sky Sports News’ Rob Dorsett to discuss how much the pressure has risen on Gareth Southgate in 14 short months since the Euro 2022 final, where his biggest squad headaches are and how he approaches the two Nations League matches, with a number of his first-choice players not featuring for their clubs.
Sky Sports digital football writers Adam Bate and Sam Blitz then join the party with their England XIs as we debate who should be in Southgate’s line-up to face Iran in two months time.

Premier League weekend wrap: Son sizzles, will Rodgers go? Arsenal return to the top, Everton earn big three points Sep 18, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring pundit reaction, interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top-flight.
PART ONE | Can Brendan Rodgers keep his job after a second big defeat in a row? Heung-Min Son provided the perfect reaction to being dropped with a 13-minute hat-trick in a 6-2 Spurs win over Leicester on Saturday Night Football, with Jack Wilkinson there to give us his view on the North London goal-fest. Rivals Arsenal weren't to be outdone and romped to a 3-0 win at Brentford on Super Sunday - leading to some high praise from opposition boss Thomas Frank, and Sky Sports features writer Nick Wright.
PART TWO | At the seventh time of asking, Everton finally earned their first win of the season by beating David Moyes' beleaguered West Ham 1-0. Hear from Moyes on their struggles, as well as guest Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink's views on the Toffees' upturn in form. Elsewhere, Adam Bate was our man at Molineux as Erling Haaland scored (again) in Man City's 3-0 win at Wolves. Plus, Steve Cooper explained why his Nottm Forest side would need time after a fourth defeat in a row to Fulham on Friday Night.
PART 3 | The Eddie Howe derby between Newcastle and Bournemouth ended level at St James' Park - but Cherries caretaker boss Gary O'Neil wasn't totally satisfied about taking a point from the Magpies fortress. Plus, Adam Bate explains why Aston Villa vs Southampton was an especially tough watch.
And that's your Premier League weekend wrap!

WSL season preview: The WSL is back! Will Chelsea, Arsenal and Man City dominate again or could someone break the top three stranglehold? Sep 06, 2022

With the WSL returning this weekend, Charlotte Marsh is joined by Caroline Barker and Anton Toloui to preview the upcoming season.
PART 1 | Chelsea, Arsenal and Man City’s differing summer business analysed as the Blues prepare to defend another WSL title. Charlotte, Caroline and Anton discuss how Chelsea have strengthened again as Arsenal take a more measured approached. Meanwhile, it’s been all change at Man City.
PART 2 | With Tottenham and Man Utd starting the season on Saturday, live on Sky Sports, the podcast discusses how their summers will help improve the squads. Liverpool also return to the WSL and Everton start life under Brian Sorensen. Plus, who could potentially struggle this season?
This podcast was recorded and first published before the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: VAR takes centre stage | Liverpool and City drop more points | Resurgent Man Utd end Arsenal's winning start Sep 04, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring pundit reaction, interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top-flight.
PART ONE | Liverpool drop more points after they were held to a frantic 0-0 draw against Everton at Goodison Park. Ben Grounds reflects on the game, which Conor Cody denied a fairytale winner against his former club after a lengthy VAR check. That wasn’t the only VAR check of the day! VAR took centre stage on Saturday, and not in a good way! We reflect on a series of decisions that infuriated managers, players, pundits and fans alike. We hear from Sam Blitz and Zinny Boswell on the VAR controversy at Stamford Bridge, plus West Ham boss David Moyes and Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel give their verdicts. Finally, Nick Wright reviews Spurs’ win against Fulham.
PART TWO | Super Sunday saw Brighton hammer Leicester to increase the pressure on Foxes boss Brendan Rodgers. Rodgers insists he will fight on despite a fifth straight defeat, while Lewis Jones gives his match verdict from the Amex Stadium. Then we move to Old Trafford where Manchester United’s resurgence continued at the expense of league leaders Arsenal. Christian Eriksen reveals what’s behind the change at united before former Arsenal star Paul Merson offers up some positives for the Gunners, despite their perfect start to the season ending. Last but not least, the Super Sunday panel discuss who will finish the season higher, Manchester United or Arsenal…
And that's your Premier League weekend wrap!

20 years of Transfer Deadline Day: How has it changed English football? | A Deadline Day in the life on Sky Sports News Aug 31, 2022

With another Transfer Deadline Day upon us we look back on 20 years of the transfer window in the Premier League and how it has changed English football - and continues to evolve from year to year at the end of the top-flight's most expensive ever summer.
PART 1 | Sky Sports News transfer gurus Dharmesh Sheth and Kaveh Solhekol join Peter Smith to discuss whether the transfer window has ever been as big as it is now, what sparks so much interest in transfers, how the window has changed the way clubs operate and whether there may ever be a return to season-round signings.
PART 2 | Reporter Paul Gilmour tells Ron Walker about the inner workings of a Transfer Deadline Day on Sky Sports News, how to cut out the noise on the big breaking stories as the transfer window draws to a close, the life of a Training Ground reporter in the final hours of the window - his favourite memories of Deadline Days gone by.

Premier League weekend wrap: Liverpool equal historic win | Man City's dramatic comeback | Arsenal stay perfect Aug 28, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring pundit reaction, interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top flight.
PART ONE | Liverpool crisis? What crisis. Jurgen Klopp's side made history with a record-equalling 9-0 win over Bournemouth at Anfield, leaving Cherries boss Scott Parker pleading for new signings. There was a tougher afternoon for Man City who came back from 2-0 down to beat Crystal Palace, but boss Patrick Vieira still left the Etihad proud of his side. Plus, Nick Wright and Dan Sansom reflect on victories for Arsenal and Manchester United on Saturday.
PART TWO | Chelsea's season improved with a 2-1 win over Leicester, with Joe Shread impressed with the early signs of a Sterling-James combination, while Brighton's continued bright start had Lewis Jones wide-eyed about Pascal Gross. Harry Kane spoke to Sky Sports after netting his 200th Premier League goal in Spurs' 2-0 win at Nottm Forest, and Bruno Lage and Eddie Howe both felt they should have won as Wolves and Newcastle drew 1-1 at Molineux.
PART THREE | What's going wrong for Steven Gerrard at Aston Villa? He told Sky Sports the responsibility for their poor form lay on his shoulders after a 1-0 reverse at home to West Ham, while Thomas Frank didn't hold back on his assessment of Brentford's 1-1 draw with Everton.
And that's your Premier League weekend wrap!

Can Nottingham Forest cause an upset against Spurs? Michael Dawson's Super Sunday preview | Exclusive interview with Antonio Conte Aug 26, 2022

In the latest episode of Essential Football, we preview the Super Sunday clash between Nottingham Forest and Tottenham.
PART ONE | Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports pundit Michael Dawson, who is no stranger to Nottingham Forest or Tottenham, having played for both clubs during his career. The defender discusses Forest’s huge summer overhaul and their solid start to life back in the Premier League before giving his thoughts on what Tottenham should be aiming for under Antonio Conte this season.
PART TWO | Jack Wilkinson sits down with Spurs boss Conte, who talks about his side’s development, closing the gap to the sides at the top of the Premier League, facing newly-promoted Nottingham Forest, and his Champions League record following the group stage draw on Thursday.

Chelsea in transition: The Blues’ overhaul examined | Havertz on slip-ups and slang Aug 24, 2022

Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports News reporter Paul Gilmour and football journalist Joe Shread to analyse a summer of change at Chelsea on and off the pitch and what they can achieve this season after a mixed start to the campaign. We discuss the transfer business that has been done and the potential moves which could come before Deadline Day. Plus we hear from inside the camp, with an exclusive interview with Chelsea forward Kai Havertz, who lifts the lid on the mood after defeat at Leeds, his preferred role in the front three, and learning the local lingo in west London.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Saint-Maximin terrorises City | Leeds stun Chelsea | Arsenal's perfect start Aug 21, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring pundit reaction, interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top flight.
PART ONE | Newcastle once again displayed their impressive credentials under Eddie Howe with a 3-3 draw against champions Man City at St James' Park. Pep Guardiola and Micah Richards heap praise on Allain Saint-Maximin's part in the result, while we're also at Elland Road and the London Stadium, where Adam Bate and Zinny Boswell watched impressive afternoons for Leeds and Brighton - but less-so for Chelsea and West Ham.
PART TWO | On Saturday in the Premier League, Harry Kane became a history maker with his 250th Tottenham goal against Wolves. Lewis Jones talks us through the lunch-time kick-off at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, while we also look back at Arsenal's 3-0 win over Bournemouth, with Mikel Arteta's assessment of the afternoon and Jamie Redknapp's views on how the Gunners have improved.
PART THREE | There was another first on Saturday afternoon as Fulham hosted Brentford in the top flight for the first time, while we also hear the fall-out from a another tough day's work for Everton which left Frank Lampard frustrated with his side's finishing. He's not the only manager under pressure - hear from Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard on his problem with penalties and Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers' concerns over the Foxes squad after disappointing results against Crystal Palace and Southampton.
And that's your Premier League weekend wrap!

Man Utd vs Liverpool special: Jamie Carragher’s big-game preview | Exclusive interview with Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp Aug 19, 2022

In the latest episode of Essential Football, we take an in-depth look at the Monday Night Football clash between Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford.
PART ONE | Oliver Yew is joined by Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher, who discusses how both Manchester United and Liverpool will set up at Old Trafford, Casemiro’s imminent arrival and Cristiano Ronaldo’s future and Liverpool’s slow start. The former Liverpool defender analyses where the game Monday’s huge showdown could be won or lost and gives his big-game prediction.
PART TWO | Peter Smith sits down with Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who discusses Roberto Firmino’s return, Liverpool fans’ new place on the club’s board and his preparations for Monday’s big showdown and how United will set up under Erik ten Hag.

Arsenal on the rise: How Mikel Arteta’s overhaul of the Gunners is beginning to pay off Aug 17, 2022

Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports football journalists Sam Blitz and Joe Shread to analyse Arsenal’s promising start to the season and just where it could take them this term. The panel reflect on Gabriel Jesus’ big impact, Mikel Arteta’s tactical and personnel changes, and the team’s connection with a fanbase which is optimistic again. Plus, we discuss where else Arsenal will look to strengthen in the final weeks of the transfer window as they look to mount a charge for a top-four finish.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Man Utd's melancholic malaise | Chaos at Chelsea-Spurs | Jesus rises Arsenal | Gerrard 1-0 Lampard Aug 15, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring pundit reaction, player interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top flight.

Will Spurs land a rare win at Chelsea? Jamie Redknapp’s big match preview | Exclusive interview with Blues captain Cesar Azpilicueta Aug 12, 2022

In this week’s Essential Football episode we take an in-depth look at the blockbuster London derby between Chelsea and Tottenham at Stamford Bridge on Super Sunday.
PART ONE | Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp, who explains how Antonio Conte has turned Tottenham into a ‘real force’, the three transfers which will guarantee Chelsea a top-four finish and analyses where Sunday’s clash will be won and lost.
PART TWO | Sam Blitz sits down with Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta to hear about his contract negotiations this summer, how Conte changed his position when he was in charge in west London, and how the Blues' backline can stop Tottenham’s formidable attack.

Man Utd special: What’s going on at Old Trafford? Aug 10, 2022

Sky Sports News’ senior reporter Melissa Reddy joins Sky Sports football journalist Jack Wilkinson to dissect Erik ten Hag’s tumultuous start to life at Manchester United, what Cristiano Ronaldo’s future and the club’s erratic transfer policy says about the recruitment strategy at Old Trafford, and how the Glazer family ownership is hindering true progress.

Premier League Weekend Wrap: Haaland's scintillating debut | Ten Hag's disastrous start | Liverpool's stuttering opening Aug 07, 2022

Essential Football is back with a round-up of all the weekend's Premier League matches, featuring pundit reaction, player interviews and reporter analysis from up and down the top flight.
PART ONE | Arsenal faced Crystal Palace in the season curtain raiser and Mikel Arteta's side produced a resilient performance, securing a 2-0 victory at Selhurst Park. We hear from Gunners defender William Saliba, who finally made his long-awaited competitive debut for the club, and Sky Sports pundits Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville analyse the Frenchman's man of the match display.
PART TWO | On Saturday in the Premier League, Liverpool stuttered to a 2-2 draw at Fulham. Ben Grounds gives his final whistle verdict from Craven Cottage. We hear from Laura Hunter on Bournemouth's 2-0 win over Aston Villa, while Declan Olley reviews Spurs' emphatic 4-1 win over Southampton. Finally, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel and Everton manager Frank Lampard react to the Blues' 1-0 win at Goodison Park.
PART THREE | Super Sunday was all about the Manchester clubs, who had differing success on the opening weekend. Manchester United were stunned by By a 2-1 defeat to Brighton. We hear from former United captain Roy Keane, new United boss Erik ten Hag, Brighton boss Graham Potter and Sky Sports features writer Adam Bate on United's disastrous start at Old Trafford.
Attention then turns to Manchester City's 2-0 win at West Ham. All eyes were on new striker Erling Haaland, and he didn't disappoint. We hear from the Norwegian striker, City boss Pep Guardiola, the Super Sunday panel of Roy Keane, Karen Carney and Micah Richards and Sky Sports' Nick Wright on Haaland's scintillating debut.
And that's your Premier League weekend wrap!

Premier League 2022/23 season preview: Can anyone stop City & Liverpool? | Surprise teams & potential strugglers | Behind the scenes at Sky Aug 04, 2022

The Premier League is back – with a World Cup twist in the middle of it – and in this special preview podcast we take a look at how the 20 teams are shaping up for a mammoth campaign.
Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports senior football journalists Peter Smith and Oliver Yew as well as football writer and EFL expert Dan Long to run the rule over new signings, familiar faces and their battles set to play out at both ends of the table.
Plus we sit down with Sky Sports presenter David Jones to find out what life is like on set with the game’s biggest names in punditry.
Part One | The Big Six have been busy this summer with significant changes taking place at all of the top sides. Champions Man City and their nearest rivals last season, Liverpool, have both signed superstar strikers, while Tottenham, Arsenal and Manchester United are optimistic about their chances – but is there trouble ahead for Chelsea?
Part Two | We get the lowdown on the three new arrivals in the Premier League, Fulham, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest and try to work out which teams will emerge from the pack to spring a surprise.
Part Three | We go behind the scenes with Sky Sports presenter David Jones to hear his stories from the studio ahead of another blockbuster season on screen.

England beat Germany to win Euro 2022 | How the Lionesses were crowned champions | What does it mean for women’s football in the UK? Aug 01, 2022

Charlotte Marsh and Anton Toloui are back for the final Sky Sports Women’s Euros podcast of the series as they reflect on England’s Euro 2022 final victory.
The pair analyse the game itself and the key players – including Player of the Match Keira Walsh - plus the impact it will have on women’s football in the UK.
Plus, we hear from Euro 2022 winners Jill Scott, Leah Williamson, Hannah Hampton and head coach, Sarina Wiegman.

England vs Germany preview: Heavyweights meet in Euro 2022 final | Where the game could be won and lost | Can the Lionesses win the Euros? Jul 29, 2022

Charlotte Marsh and Anton Toloui are back with the penultimate Sky Sports Women’s Euros podcast as they look ahead to a massive final as England take on Germany at Wembley on Sunday.
The pair look at where the game could be won and lost both on and off the field, and make their predictions, asking the question: Can England win Euro 2022?
Plus, we hear from Jill Scott and Keira Walsh ahead of the final, plus messages of support from Jurgen Klopp and former Lionesses manager Phil Neville.

England reach Euro 2022 final | Russo’s audacious brilliance | How the Lionesses saw off Sweden challenge Jul 27, 2022

Charlotte and Anton are back after another huge night for England who beat Sweden 4-0 to reach the Euro 2022 final at Wembley.
The pair take a look back at just how England recovered from a nervous start to sweep Sweden aside, including THAT goal from Alessia Russo. Plus, they look at where it went wrong for the Swedes.
Anton also chats to Russo, Beth Mead, Ellen White and Sweden’s Magdalena Eriksson to get their reaction on Tuesday night's dramatic semi.

Semi-final preview: What can England expect from Sweden? | Will the QFs have an impact? | Plus pragmatic Germany face free-flowing France Jul 24, 2022

As the 2022 Euros reach the semi-final stages, Charlotte Marsh and Anton Toloui are back to have a look at the two enticing games coming up this week.
Firstly, hosts England take on Sweden on Tuesday, but what can the Lionesses expect from the No 2-ranked side in the world?
Germany then face France on Wednesday, with two differing styles – one of pragmatism and efficiency and the other of free-flowing and sometimes chaotic play – clashing at the Stadium MK.
Plus, Charlotte and Anton discuss a tight quarter-final stage and whether they will have an impact on the final four.

Reaction from Brighton as Stanway's screamer sends England through | Did streetwise Spain show how to beat the hosts? Jul 21, 2022

Charlotte and Anton are joined by Ron Walker in Brighton to dissect and discuss England's incredible quarter-final victory over Spain.
The team run through the positives and negatives from the game and take a quick look ahead to who might await the hosts in the semi-finals.
We also hear from England goalscorers Georgia Stanway and Ella Toone who stopped by for a chat with Anton.

Who impressed in the group stages? | Can England cope with Spain? | The remaining quarter-finals analysed Jul 18, 2022

With the group stages done and the quarter-finals almost upon us, Charlotte Marsh and Anton Toloui are joined by The Telegraph’s Tom Garry for the latest Sky Sports Women’s Euros podcast.
The trio look back on an exciting group stage, and pick their standout player, best game and the team that impressed the most.
Plus with England set to face pre-tournament favourites Spain on Wednesday, they discuss how the Lionesses might tackle the task and whether they can beat Jorge Vilda’s side.
There are some tasty quarter-final fixtures for the remainder of the week too as Charlotte, Anton and Tom discusses the ins and outs of the remaining knockout fixtures.

N Ireland 0-5 England: Lionesses shine without Sarina | Should Russo start? | Where do Northern Ireland go from here? Jul 16, 2022

The Sky Sports Women’s Euros podcast is back after the completion of Group A, with Charlotte Marsh and Anton Toloui joined by Sky Sports News’ Paul Gilmour to discuss England’s win over Northern Ireland.
The trio take a look at how the Lionesses fared without Sarina Wiegman, after the coach was left out due to Covid, and how it might impact quarter-final preparations. We also hear from captain Leah Williamson on how the squad have adapted.
Plus, a look at some of the players who starred for both sides at St Mary’s and Paul discusses where Northern Ireland go from here after their first major tournament.

England 8-0 Norway: What just happened?! England turn it on against Norway | NI exit Euros after Austria defeat | Fab France Jul 12, 2022

Charlotte and Anton try to digest just how England beat Norway 8-0 in what was the biggest ever win for a single team at any European Championships.
Plus, we hear from player of the match, Beth Mead, Jill Scott and Ellen White, who spoke to Anton after the game.
Northern Ireland exited the Euros after their 2-0 defeat to Austria, we take a look at how it might impact Friday’s British showdown against England.
With France and Germany also impressing in the group stages, Charlotte and Anton also discuss their upcoming fixtures and how they might fare later in the tournament.

England 1-0 Austria: Takeaways from Lionesses opener | How will Northern Ireland fare against Norway? | Alexia Putellas out for Spain Jul 07, 2022

After England began their Euro 2022 campaign with a 1-0 win against Austria, Charlotte and Anton dissect the game and run through the positives and negatives.
Plus, we hear from England striker Ellen White, who spoke to Anton in the mixed zone after the match.
Next up in Group A, Northern Ireland take on Norway so we take a look at how they might fare in their first ever major tournament outing.
The absence of Alexia Putellas has also sent shockwaves through the tournament, we predict how it might affect Spain.

Women’s Euros preview: Conundrums for Wiegman and England | NI set to make history | The view from the Netherlands, Spain and beyond Jul 01, 2022

With the Women’s Euros fast approaching, Sky Sports’ senior football journalist Charlotte Marsh and Sky Sports News’ England reporter Anton Toloui bring you a bumper tournament preview.
PART 1 | Charlotte and Anton chat all things England, but did the three friendlies post more questions than they answered? Plus the pair make their predictions for the tournament.
PART 2 | Sky Sports News’ Paul Gilmour brings us the latest from the Northern Ireland camp ahead of their first major international tournament, including insight on Marissa Callaghan’s injury and how Kenny Shiels is preparing his side.
PART 3 | Taking in the view from around Europe, with journalists Alex Ibaceta and Jess Parker Humphreys discussing some of the tournament favourites, including Spain, Germany and France. Plus, NOS presenter Suse Van Kleef brings us the latest on reigning European champions, the Netherlands.

Women’s Euros Podcast: England media day – Fran Kirby selection | Jill Scott, the north east’s fastest paper girl | Downtime with Lionesses Jun 22, 2022

In the first episode of the Sky Sports Women’s Euros podcast, Sky Sports’ senior football journalist Charlotte Marsh and Sky Sports News’ England reporter Anton Toloui look back on a busy England Women media day at St George’s Park.
Fran Kirby discussed her return to the Lionesses set-up, with goalkeeper Hannah Hampton and Nikita Parris also revealing how they reacted to the news that they will be going to Euro 2022.
Plus, after Ellen White said Steph Houghton will be cheering the squad on from home, Charlotte and Anton chat how the Lionesses might fare without their former captain.
Jill Scott also reveals how she earned the title of ‘fastest paper girl in the north east’ and the England players chat about how they use their downtime while in camp.

Champions League final reaction: Real complete incredible run | Liverpool denied by Courtois | Pre-match chaos May 29, 2022

On the Essential Football podcast we react to Real Madrid’s Champions League final win over Liverpool, which came courtesy of Vinicius Jnr’s second half goal. But that’s only part of the story on a dramatic night. Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports’ Nick Wright and Adam Bate from inside the Stade de France to dissect the big talking points.
The panel reflect on the twists and turns on the pitch, picking out the standout performers and fine margins which swung it the Spanish side’s way, and also discuss the off-field issues, which saw Liverpool supporters struggle to get into the stadium and the match delayed by 37 minutes.
We also analyse what this result means for how Liverpool’s season as a whole will be assessed – and how they bounce back from this disappointment in 2022/23.

Champions League final special: Alexander-Arnold vs Vinicius, records on the line, the view from Madrid and the latest from Paris May 27, 2022

In a Champions League final preview special of the Essential Football Podcast, host Ron Walker is joined by a trio of guests to look ahead to the European club showpiece of the season as Liverpool take on 13-time winners Real Madrid in Paris.
Sky Sports digital football journalists Richard Morgan and Nick Wright talk us through where the game will be won and lost for Liverpool, whether their Premier League title battle will put them at a disadvantage and how Trent Alexander-Arnold and Vinicius Junior will be a key battle at the Stade de France.
Spanish football expert Ben Hayward also joins us to give us the mood from Madrid, where Carlo Ancelotti has been able to rest a number of his key players ahead of the final, and could make his own history if he becomes the first manager to lift the European Cup four times. Ben also explains why Real Madrid have become so synonymous with Champions League success – and what has driven their sensational never-say-die attitude this season.
Finally, Sky Sports features writer Adam Bate dials in from the French capital to update us on the latest on the atmosphere in Paris as well as explaining how the temperature could play its part, and give his prediction for Saturday’s spectacle.

Final day special: Man City’s dramatic title win | Tottenham’s top-four place | Leeds’ survival as Burnley drop May 23, 2022

On the Essential Football podcast we look back on an incredible climax to the Premier League season. We hear reports from every game up and down the country before Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports football journalists Sam Blitz and Joe Shread to dissect the big talking points.
In Part One, after hearing the final-whistle verdict from around the grounds, we discuss Manchester City’s dramatic title win and Liverpool’s near miss and how those two teams have pushed each other to such high levels.
And in Part Two, Tottenham’s turnaround under Antonio Conte is in the spotlight, while we ask what Arsenal need to do to maintain their upward curve. We also reflect on a bad day for Burnley, following their relegation to the Championship, as Leeds salvage their top-flight status. Plus, we share our moments of the season.

Commentators' special: Martin Tyler, Rob Hawthorne and Bill Leslie reveal all about commentary and look back at the Premier League season May 20, 2022

In the latest episode of the Essential Football podcast, Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports football commentators Martin Tyler, Rob Hawthorne and Bill Leslie ahead of the final weekend of the Premier League season.
In Part One, the trio reveal all about commentary, talking the ins and outs of the day job, how they got started and the challenges they face on the gantry!
And in Part Two, Tyler, Hawthorne and Leslie look back at the 2021/22 Premier League season as they discuss their best moments, best goals and favourite lines of the campaign.

Eintracht Frankfurt vs Rangers: Europa League final special with Kris Boyd, James Tavernier, John Lundstram & Graeme Souness May 17, 2022

Ahead of Rangers’ Europa League final against Eintracht Frankfurt, Sky Sports reporter Luke Shanley exclusively speaks to former Rangers striker Kris Boyd in Seville before hearing from captain James Tavernier, midfielder John Lundstram and ex-manager and Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness.

FA Cup special: Liverpool win more silverware | Shoot-out heartbreak again for Chelsea | Salah & VVD injuries May 14, 2022

Following Liverpool’s epic penalty shootout win over Chelsea in the FA Cup final, football journalists Peter Smith, Lewis Jones and Nick Wright, who were covering the game for Sky Sports, discuss the major talking points from what was another tantalising and tremendously dramatic final.

North London derby special: Antonio Conte exclusive & Alan Smith’s preview May 11, 2022

Ahead of Thursday’s season-defining North London derby, Sky Sports digital football journalist Jack Wilkinson heads to the Tottenham training ground to speak with boss Antonio Conte, before senior football journalist Oliver Yew sits down with former Gunners striker Alan Smith for the view from the red half of north London.

Is the Premier League title race over? Can Spurs catch Arsenal? Plus Man Utd woes, the relegation fight and WSL final-day drama May 09, 2022

On the latest Essential Football Podcast, host Ron Walker is joined by Sam Blitz and Zinny Boswell to talk the Premier League title race as Man City took advantage of Liverpool’s slip-up to widen the gap at the top of the table, plus the race for Europe, survival and a dramatic final WSL weekend.
PART 1 | Is there still hope for Liverpool, with Manchester City moving three points clear in the title race? Why have Chelsea collapsed, are Arsenal home and dry in the race for Europe or can Spurs get a result in the North London derby to cause a late upset?
PART 2 | Advantage Everton in the Premier League survival race. What’s changed for Frank Lampard? Who should be more worried out of Burnley or Leeds? And we put Sam and Zinny’s knowledge of Man Utd’s woes to the test in a special game of ‘higher or lower’.
PART 3 | After a dramatic final weekend in the WSL, how did Chelsea retain the title and where did it not quite happen for Arsenal? What are the takeaways from the rest of the league table and what can we expect to happen this summer?
All that, and much, much more!

Will Liverpool & Man City's Champions League results impact the title race? | The relegation battle continues | Fulham, Bournemouth assessed May 05, 2022

In the latest episode of the Essential Football Podcast, Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports features writer Nick Wright, Sky Sports News reporter Ben Ransom and Sky Sports EFL expert Dan Long to discuss all the talking points ahead of another busy weekend of Premier League football.
PART ONE | The panel reflect on differing Champions League fortunes for Liverpool and Manchester City in midweek. Liverpool overcame a bit of a scare to power past Villarreal, while Real Madrid produced an epic comeback to knock out Pep Guardiola’s side. Will those results have any impact on the Premier League title race as Jurgen Klopp’s side prepare to face Tottenham and City hist Newcastle?
PART TWO | Burnley’s turnaround, Cristiano Ronaldo’s incredible goal scoring form, Everton’s poor away record, Arsenal’s chase for the Champions League and Leeds’ relegation concerns are also up for discussion as continue to look ahead at the weekend’s action in the top-flight.
PART THREE | Finally, the guys by Dan Long to look at what Fulham and Bournemouth can bring to the Premier League after winning promotion back to the top-flight. With the final day of the regular Championship season this weekend, who will join Nottingham Forest and Huddersfield in the play-offs and who will eventually seal promotion at Wembley?
All that, and much, much more!

Mikel Arteta special: Arsenal's transfer plans, why they can’t copy Liverpool’s route to the top and how his project is shaping up Apr 29, 2022

In the latest episode of the Essential Football Podcast, Sky Sports features writer Nick Wright sits down with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta for an exclusive interview at the club's training centre at London Colney.
Ahead the Gunners’ crucial Premier League clash with West Ham - which is live on Sky Sports on Sunday - the Arsenal boss discusses how his side have adapted after injuries to Kieran Tierney and Thomas Partey, the club’s summer transfer plans, why they cannot copy Liverpool’s route to the top and how his Arsenal project is developing. Are they ahead of schedule?
Arteta also talks the recent return of club legends Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry to the Emirates Stadium and the race for the top four.
In Part 2, Nick is then joined by Sky Sports senior football journalist Oliver Yew to discuss the interview and all things Arsenal ahead of a crucial few weeks for the club as they bid to return to the Champions League.

Premier League review: Relentless Man City, Liverpool | Advantage Arsenal in top four race | Everton in danger of the drop Apr 25, 2022

After another Premier League weekend packed with twists and turns, we assess what the latest results mean for the title race, the chase for a top-four finish and the battle for survival at the bottom of the table.
Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports’ senior football journalist Oliver Yew and football journalist Lewis Jones to look back on:
Man City’s breeze past Watford and Liverpool’s battle to victory in the Merseyside derby; a significant weekend for Arsenal, who beat Man Utd and saw Spurs slip-up at Brentford; and Burnley’s crucial win over Wolves which lifts them out of the relegation zone and above Everton.
We pick out a key moment to come for Man City and Liverpool, the potentially deciding factor in Arsenal’s pursuit of a return to the Champions League, and what Everton can learn from Burnley to boost their chances in the relegation scrap.

Erik Ten Hag announcement: Jamie Carragher on the new man at Old Trafford, plus Arsenal vs Man Utd preview Apr 21, 2022

Erik Ten Hag's announcement as Manchester United's new manager means we've ripped up the script for the Essential Football Podcast, with the Dutchman's unveiling heralding - yet another - new era at Old Trafford.
Host Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports' Jamie Carragher as well as senior football writer Peter Smith and features writer Adam Bate to talk about the new man, what United can expect from him and the challenges he faces at Old Trafford.
The podcast also looks ahead to the weekend meeting at the Emirates, when a resurgent Arsenal host United on the back of a 4-2 win at Chelsea on Wednesday night.

Man Utd issues, Liverpool quadruple chase - Liverpool vs Man Utd preview special with Sky Sports News' Melissa Reddy Apr 18, 2022

On the latest edition of the Essential Football Podcast, we look ahead to Tuesday's Sky Live clash between Liverpool and Manchester United at Anfield, which could play a major part in deciding the race for the Premier League title and the top four.
PART 1 | Sky Sports News senior reporter Melissa Reddy, fresh from interviewing Ralf Rangnick, assesses the mood at Old Trafford after scraping a 3-2 win over Norwich, where boos from the stands leave Paul Pogba and the ongoing situation regarding Erik Ten Hag and an Old Trafford summer rebuild.
PART 2 | Sky Sports senior football journalist Pete Smith and features writer Nick Wright analyse Liverpool's quadruple chances, their performance against Manchester City, Mo Salah and Sadio Mane's contract situations and how Thiago Alcantara has helped evolve the Reds' style this season.
PART 3 | What hope do Manchester United have at Anfield? Will the 5-0 at Old Trafford play a part in the return fixture? How will Klopp balance his squad with Everton up next and would United stay in the race even with a defeat...

Man City vs Liverpool assessed, more problems at Man Utd and an Everton lifeline, plus the North London top-four race Apr 11, 2022

Looking back on the weekend's action on the Essential Football Podcast, host Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports digital football writers Sam Blitz and Dan Sansom as the top two went head-to-head at the Etihad, Everton shocked Man Utd and the North London chase for the Champions League took another twist.
PART 1 - Man City vs Liverpool: Who was Sunday's 2-2 draw a better result for? Could Liverpool have hoped for more? And are the run-ins all that they might seem?
PART 2 - Everton vs Man Utd: What went wrong for Utd and right for Everton? Did Sean Dyche's words spur them on? Will Erik Tan Hag want to take over on this showing, and how big is the scale of the overhaul they need?
PART 3 - The top-four race: After back-to-back defeats for Arsenal, what's gone wrong at the Emirates? Have they run out of steam in the race for fourth? Are Spurs now the real deal, and are they such a one-man team after all?

Jamie Carragher special: Why a Liverpool win at Man City wouldn't end the title race, where the game will be won and... his big prediction Apr 08, 2022

In a special edition of the Essential Football Podcast, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher joins Ron Walker to discuss this weekend's crunch title-race clash as leaders Manchester City host second-placed Liverpool live on Sky Sports Premier League this Sunday.
Carra explains why the game may still not act as the title decider even with so little of the season left, why City and Liverpool have the edge in different parts of the pitch, why a draw might be a good result for both managers - and predicts how the Etihad showdown is going to go.

Problems mount at Man Utd | Kane making Spurs able | Crisis envelops Everton | City, Liverpool set for title decider? Apr 04, 2022

On this week’s Essential Football Podcast, Charlotte Marsh is joined by Sky Sports’ digital football journalist Jack Wilkinson and digital features writer Adam Bate to discuss a busy weekend of Premier League action.
PART ONE | The top four race heated up, starting with Manchester United’s loss at Leicester. In a lacklustre performance, is Man Utd’s push for the top four all but over? Plus Marcus Rashford’s future continues to be in doubt. Tottenham laid down their marker for a top four finish, beating Newcastle and inspired by Harry Kane. Plus are Chelsea now looking over their shoulder after a shock defeat to Brentford?
PART TWO | Everton’s season continues to tumble after a 2-1 defeat to West Ham. We ask how Frank Lampard could turn things around and just where they went wrong at the London Stadium. Everton face a huge match against Burnley on Wednesday evening before a brutal run-in, but could any of the bottom three do enough to pull themselves above Everton and out on danger?
PART THREE | Man City and Liverpool kept pace with one another in the Premier League title race ahead of a huge showdown on Super Sunday. The panel assess whether their upcoming meeting will decide this year’s league champion

Premier League preview: Can Liverpool make it 10 wins in a row? Is Leicester clash must-win for Man Utd? Will the pressure get to Arsenal? Mar 31, 2022

The Premier League is back! Joining Ron Walker on the Essential Football Podcast this week is Sky Sports senior football journalist Richard Morgan, as well as digital football writer Joe Shread, to discuss the talking points worth keeping an eye on in this weekend’s games.
PART ONE | The panel ponder whether Liverpool’s early start against Watford will hinder them, if Man City should worry about their defensive injuries, whether a partially-filled Stamford Bridge will affect Chelsea, if Leeds can Marsch on again and ask if Man Utd’s Saturday Night Football clash with Leicester is must-win for Ralf Rangnick.
PART TWO | The panel look ahead to Super Sunday and how Everton turn their fortunes around at West Ham, and whether Newcastle will cut short Spurs’ recent good form in north London. The group also preview Arsenal’s trip to Crystal Palace on Monday Night Football, and give us their shouts about who faces the biggest weekend – and a Premier League prediction for the matchday.

England special: Maguire boos, the best and worst case World Cup draws and our 23-man squad selections for Qatar Mar 30, 2022

It's an England special of the Essential Football Podcast after the Three Lions' wins over Switzerland and Ivory Coast during the international break. Charlotte Marsh is joined by senior football journalist Pete Smith and football writer Ben Grounds to have a look back - and forwards - on England's 2022.
Part 1 | What did we learn from the two friendlies? How much can we read into Gareth Southgate's squad selection, and who did the guys pick in their 23 for Qatar?
Part 2 | What was the thinking behind the Maguire boos and did Southgate nail his response? Who could England face in Qatar, and who would be the best and worst-case scenario? Finally, how is England's 2022 shaping up?

Everton escape up and running? | Spurs to halt happy Hammers? | Winners & losers from Southgate's England squad Mar 18, 2022

Football fans, rejoice, for another edition of the Essential Football podcast is here! Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports’ resident Evertonian Ben Grounds and our features writer of an Arsenal persuasion Nick Wright to reflect on another significant week at the top and bottom of the Premier League, and look ahead to the first international break of 2022…
PART 1 | From a dramatic late winner, and a highly contentious red card, to a unique on-field protest and huge ramifications at the bottom of the table, 10-man Everton’s vital victory over Newcastle may have lacked quality, but it more than made up for it in talking points, which Nick, who was at Goodison for the first time, and Ben dissect
PART 2 | With a few sore heads in east London after West Ham's stunning victory over Sevilla in the Europa League, we ask whether opportunity knocks for Tottenham to put an end to their London rivals’ Champions League qualification hopes with victory on Super Sunday, or whether the Hammers can continue riding this wave to further glory
PART 3 | After Gareth Southgate announced his England squad for the March friendlies against Switzerland and Ivory Coast, Nick questions the omission of Jadon Sancho and launches an impassioned defence of Harry Maguire’s inclusion, Ben explains why the door isn’t closed on Marcus Rashford, before the pair get stuck into the Jordan Pickford vs Aaron Ramsdale debate and examine who will be England No.1 heading into Qatar 2022

Premier League review: Man Utd’s resurgence, but same old Spurs? Chelsea’s touch of fortune, Arsenal’s juggernaut and Everton’s bad weekend Mar 14, 2022

After a weekend of renewed hope for some and concerns mounting for others - look away Everton - Ron Walker is joined by digital football journalists Zinny Boswell and Dan Sansom on the latest Essential Football Podcast to chew the fat on a big round of Premier League games.
Part 1 | What does Man Utd’s win over Spurs mean for the top-four race? Where did Cristiano Ronaldo’s sudden return to form come from? Was it same-old Spurs on the big stage? Plus: Chelsea fans give us their thoughts on the situation at Stamford Bridge, Trevoh Chalobah gets away with a big penalty shout and Kai Havertz continues to impress.
Part 2 | Just how comfortable were Arsenal in their win over Leicester? Could Aaron Ramsdale be England’s No 1 by the World Cup? Are Everton really in the mire after Frank Lampard loses his unbeaten home record? Plus: A big win for Watford, Jesse Marsch gets off the mark at Leeds and Southampton’s streaks continue to confuse.

Chelsea Q&A special: Transfers, tickets, and what next at Stamford Bridge? Plus Man Utd vs Tottenham in top-four race Mar 11, 2022

In a special edition of the Essential Football Podcast where Sky Sports News chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol joins Ron Walker, Declan Olley and Oli Yew for all the latest updates on everything from Stamford Bridge at the end of a tumultuous week for Chelsea, as well as looking ahead to a big weekend in the Premier League.
PART 1 | Man Utd vs Tottenham – is there extra pressure to bounce back after the hosts’ defeat to Man City last weekend? Who has more riding on the game, and how will Harry Kane’s form play a part? Plus we make both the case for a home win, and look at how Spurs can grab a big three points on the road.
PART 2 | Kaveh Solhekol joins us to explain the latest developments around Chelsea following Roman Abramovich’s sanctions from the UK government on Thursday. Where does it leave the club? Can they rescue their transfer plans? Will away fans be allowed in, and who’s going to buy the club?

The race for Europe and survival: Will Arsenal get fourth? Can Man Utd wrestle it back? Are Newcastle safe - and who's going down? Mar 07, 2022

In the latest Essential Football Podcast, host Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports senior football writer Pete Smith, features writer Nick Wright and digital football journalist Joe Shread to assess the weekend's Premier League action.
In Part One, the team dissect Arsenal's narrow win at Watford, which moved them into the top four with three games in hand on Man Utd and Tottenham. Will they stay there, or can Man Utd bounce back from Sunday's defeat at the Etihad? Is it going to be close but no cigar again for West Ham, can Spurs still do it... And what's happened to Wolves?
In Part Two we turn our attention to the other end of the table, and the job Eddie Howe is doing at Newcastle - who are now eight games undefeated in the division. What are the early signs from the Jesse Marsch era at Leeds - and is there cause for optimism? Has Brentford's win at Norwich just nudged them to safety, and who will end up being the bottom three?

Manchester derby preview: Can United upset the odds? Can Ronaldo get back to form? And who makes our combined XI Mar 03, 2022

In the latest Football Essential Podcast, host Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports senior football journalist Charlotte Marsh, Sky Sports News' Ben Ransom and Sky Sports Football data editor Adam Smith ahead of a weekend where the eyes of the Premier League will be on Manchester.
PART ONE | How do Manchester United turn the tide from such a woeful defeat at Old Trafford earlier in the season – and how does Cristiano Ronaldo get back into form? Could this be a ‘statement win’ for City, and perhaps a ‘statement performance’ from £100m man Jack Grealish too? Then again, could Riyad Mahrez prove the difference?
PART TWO | Who needs the victory more? Will Manchester United’s April, facing City and Liverpool, hold the keys to the title race, and will they make it into the top four? Can City lift the treble, and are they better placed than Liverpool to rack up a trophy haul this season? Plus, our combined XI – including one big absentee.

Kepa & Mendy - Method or madness from Tuchel | Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds legacy | Misfiring Man Utd Feb 28, 2022

Sky Sports’ EFL editor Simeon Gholam and digital journalists Ben Grounds and Jack Wilkinson join host Peter Smith for the latest edition of the Essential Football Podcast…
PART ONE | To sub a goalkeeper, or not to sub a goalkeeper? Was there method or madness behind Thomas Tuchel’s decision to replace Edouard Mendy with Kepa Arrizabalaga for Chelsea’s Carabao Cup final shootout defeat to Liverpool? The panel dissect the major incidents from Wembley and explore how domestic cup success could act as a springboard for Jurgen Klopp’s side
PART TWO | With Leeds wielding the axe on head coach Marcelo Bielsa, the panel examine the Argentine’s legacy at Elland Road, how his demise unfolded, and how Leeds can turn their campaign around to avoid falling further into a relegation battle, which Everton are embroiled in after their contentious defeat and non-handball against champions Man City
PART THREE | After misfiring Man Utd drew with Watford and leave the door open to their top-four rivals, Jack Wilkinson joins the panel to examine what went wrong at Old Trafford, whether Ralf Rangnick’s side are over-reliant on Cristiano Ronaldo, and what needs to change with the derby on the horizon

Premier League Preview: Will Conte last the season? Should Rangnick get more credit? Plus Carabao Cup and Everton vs Man City preview Feb 24, 2022

In the latest Football Essential Podcast, host Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports features writer Adam Bate and digital football journalist Declan Olley ahead of the first domestic cup final of the season - and plenty going on in the Premier League too.
PART ONE | What did Antonio Conte mean with his comments about his future, and where's it all gone wrong? Was Ralf Rangnick right to criticise Man Utd's players when praising Anthony Elanga, and is he doing a better job than he's given credit for?
PART TWO | Is there any hope for Everton against Manchester City on Saturday, after the Premier League leaders' defeat at Spurs last week? Plus we discuss why criticism of City's absence of a number nine may be missing the mark, and just how worried Frank Lampard should be about the Toffees' relegation fight.
PART THREE | The Carabao Cup final - who is this game bigger for? Has Liverpool's squad depth leapfrogged Chelsea's, and not just thanks to Lucas Diaz? What do we do with Romelu Lukaku - and can Kai Havertz steal his place?

Premier League Review: The title race is on! Harry Kane's goals, Romelu Lukaku's questions, Lucas Diaz's start and a big win for Man Utd Feb 21, 2022

In the latest Football Essential Podcast, host Ron Walker is joined by Sky Sports features writer Nick Wright, digital football journalist and resident tipster Lewis Jones and Sky Sports News reporter Michael Bridge to discuss a huge twist in the title race and more drama at the top and bottom of the Premier League table across the weekend's games.
PART ONE | Where else to start than the Etihad Stadium? Harry Kane's masterclass, what Spurs got right and Man City got wrong, and how the City vs Liverpool showdown in April is looking a title decider are all discussed, as well as Luis Diaz's role in Liverpool's win over Norwich, and the momentum shift around Anfield.
PART TWO | Why is Romelu Lukaku breaking records for the wrong reasons, after his seven touches across 90 minutes against Crystal Palace? How big was Manchester United's win over Leeds, how do Arsenal and Wolves fare in the battle for the top four and are there positives for Leicester, despite another defeat?
PART THREE | Newcastle's unbeaten run is assessed as well as West Ham's recent form, as well as another alarming weekend for Everton and new boss Frank Lampard. Who can stay up, with Watford and Burnley both winning, and Norwich's recent resurgence? And what has happened to Aston Villa's form?

Premier League Preview: Can Spurs trip Man City up at the Etihad? | Race for the top four continues with Man Utd and Wolves in action Feb 18, 2022

In the latest Football Essential Podcast, host Ron Walker is joined by Joe Shread and Ali Muzaffar to discuss a thrilling weekend of Premier League fixtures as Tottenham travel to Manchester City on Saturday while Manchester United, Wolves and Leicester continue to compete for the top four on Sunday.
PART ONE | After thrashing Sporting Lisbon 5-0 in the Champions League this week, Manchester City will host Tottenham at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday Night Football. Pep Guardiola’s side have been imperious in the Premier League this season – can anyone stop the Citizens? Joe Shread and Ali Muzaffar also take a look at Antonio Conte’s comments about Tottenham’s squad being made weaker after the January transfer window. Will Conte still be at the club next season?
PART TWO | The stage is set for another Roses Derby as Manchester United travel to Elland Road to face Leeds on Super Sunday. The Red Devils managed to beat Brighton in their midweek fixture, but their poor performances on the pitch have been followed by rumours of disharmony in the dressing room. Meanwhile, Leeds have struggled to build on their impressive return to the Premier League last season and could face a relegation battle if their form does not improve.
Joe and Ali also discuss Leicester’s clash with Wolves, with both teams competing for a place in European competition next season. Wolves look to be a revitalised side under Bruno Lage, while Brendan Rodgers’ Leicester have endured a series of difficult results amid injury troubles and defensive woes.
Finally, the pair give their verdict on who will finish in the top four this season and claim a coveted position in next season’s Champions League. Tune in to find out who they pick…

Premier League Review: Title race reborn? | ‘Spineless’ Man Utd | Spurs implode as Wolves bare teeth | Newcastle escape gathers pace Feb 14, 2022

In the latest Essential Football Podcast, host Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports features writer Nick Wright and senior football journalist Oliver Yew to discuss Liverpool's title challenge, Spurs' latest error-strewn performance and Newcastle's resurgence
PART ONE | After Liverpool make it six wins in a row in all competitions to move back to within nine points of leaders Manchester City, we assess the Reds' title aspirations and explore where Pep Guardiola's side could lose points to hand Jurgen Klopp's men a possible advantage
PART TWO | The door is wide open in the top-four battle after Manchester United and West Ham drop points, while Tottenham's ragged display against Wolves leaves a lot to be desired and their Champions League chances flailing. So, who could bag that all-important fourth spot?
PART THREE | And after the bottom three sides all lose to allow Newcastle to pull clear of the drop zone, is the relegation picture any clearer? We'll discuss how Burnley, Watford and Norwich can attempt to drag those around them into a battle at the bottom

Premier League Preview: Yet more Man Utd & Spurs issues, Arsenal on the up, pressure on Rodgers, Everton struggles and Newcastle resurgence Feb 11, 2022

After a winter break of its own, The Essential Football Podcast returns as guest host Charlotte Marsh is joined by Sky Sports football features writer Adam Bate and digital football journalist Ron Walker to look back on the midweek action and ahead to another captivating round of Premier League games which could have ramifications at both ends of the table.
PART ONE | With more rumours circulating around Old Trafford and two points dropped at Burnley, what's the state of affairs looking like in Manchester United's top-four chase? What's been behind the upturn in form for Southampton, their opponents on Saturday? We discuss Spurs' disappointing evening against the Saints in midweek, ask whether Wolves will stop them bouncing back, and decide who's best-placed in the race for the Champions League spots...
PART TWO | How serious - and warranted - is the pressure on Brendan Rodgers at Leicester? How much can we read into West Ham, their next opponents, beating Watford on Tuesday night? What's changed the mood at Newcastle so quickly, and will Aston Villa - and perhaps Jacob Ramsey - bring it crashing back to earth this weekend?
PART THREE | Frank Lampard takes charge of his first home Premier League game in charge of Everton this weekend, but is the pressure already on as Leeds visit Goodison Park? Are Manchester City really not the best in the world, as Pep Guardiola has said, and where do Norwich even begin to hope of taking any points off them at Carrow Road live on Saturday Night Football?

Premier League Review: Is the title race back on? | Chelsea see off Tottenham for third time this month | Battle for survival intensifies Jan 24, 2022

In the latest Essential Football Podcast, host Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports News reporter Ben Ransom and Sky Sports Football features writer Adam Bates to digest a big weekend of action at both ends of the table, Sky Sports’ Charlotte Marsh offers her take on the Women’s Super League title race and Sky Sports News transfer reporter Lyall Thomas shares his insight on the state of play entering the final week of the transfer window.
PART ONE | Given Chelsea’s recent league struggles but Carabao Cup progression it is fitting that their first league win since Boxing Day would come against Tottenham, as Thomas Tuchel’s side narrow the gap on leaders Manchester City while Antonio Conte’s Spurs are dealt a blow to their top-four ambitions.
PART TWO | After Marcus Rashford scored a 93rd-minute winner for Manchester United against West Ham to leapfrog David Moyes' side into the top four, are we seeing Ralf Rangnick’s revolution take charge?
PART THREE | The Women’s Super League serves up another weekend of drama as league leaders Arsenal rescue a late point against title rivals Manchester City, while United take advantage of Chelsea’s dropped points at Brighton.
PART FOUR | In the fourth and final part, Lyall shares his insight into a potential sensational Premier League return for Christian Eriksen, as we preview an exciting final week of the January transfer window.

Premier League Preview: Conte’s Spurs to crack Chelsea code? Man Utd momentum? Watford-Norwich six-pointer Jan 20, 2022

The Essential Football Podcast returns as host Alice Piper is joined by Charlotte Marsh and Ben Grounds to preview another captivating round of Premier League games which could have ramifications at both ends of the table.
PART ONE | After their dramatic, late victory at Leicester, the panel assess whether Antonio Conte’s Tottenham can crack the Stamford Bridge code and haul Chelsea back into the wide open race for the top four
PART TWO | Cristiano Ronaldo’s tantrum stole the headlines but having bounced back at Brentford have Ralf Rangnick and Man Utd built enough momentum to capitalise on the West Ham fragilities exposed by Leeds and boost their top-four chances? Plus: with an 11-point lead at the summit, can champions Man City afford to take their foot of the gas at Southampton?
PART THREE | An archetypal relegation six-pointer kicks off the Premier League weekend as Watford host Norwich on Friday – but which club is best placed to seize the initiative? Plus: tasked with steadying the ship for the second time in three years, can Duncan Ferguson galvanise Everton ahead of the visit of Steven Gerrard’s Aston Villa?

Premier League Review: What next for Everton? | Man Utd's issues remain | Who are the contenders in the race for promotion? Jan 17, 2022

In the latest Essential Football Podcast, host Alice Piper is joined by Ben Ransom, Nick Wright and Ron Walker to discuss another eventful weekend of Premier League football, while Simeon Gholam gives his analysis on the race to win promotion from the Championship.
PART ONE | Fresh from covering the news of Rafael Benitez's sacking at Everton, Sky Sports News reporter Ben Ransom brings us all the latest developments from Goodison Park. What went wrong for Benitez at Everton and what could be next for the Merseyside club?
PART TWO | Sky Sports football features writer Nick Wright and Sky Sports football writer Ron Walker talk through the other big talking points from the weekend. Manchester United's issues remain after letting a two-goal lead slip at Aston Villa. The pair also give their views on the relegation battle after Norwich's win against Everton and Newcastle's draw with Watford, plus Man City's win against Chelsea and the postponements in the Premier league that are causing plenty of debate.
PART THREE | Finally, Alice is joined by Sky Sports EFL Editor Simeon Gholam to take a closer look at the race to reach the Premier League from the Championship. Who are the contenders and how is their form looking as we approach the business end of the season? Simeon gives his verdict...

Premier League Preview: Will Spurs or Arsenal win north London derby? | Chelsea’s last chance at Man City | Bowen’s brilliance at West Ham Jan 14, 2022

In the latest Essential Football Podcast, host Alice Piper is joined by Nick Wright, Charlotte Marsh, and Peter Smith to preview this weekend’s Premier League action. Plus we hear from Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith ahead of the north London derby.
PART ONE | Alan Smith delivers his north London derby verdict ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Tottenham and explains why the midfield battle will be key after the Gunners’ tiring battle with 10 men at Liverpool on Thursday.
PART TWO | It’s first vs second in the Premier League on Saturday when Manchester City host Chelsea. Is this the London club’s last chance to stay in touch with leaders City? And could a win for Thomas Tuchel’s side open the door for Liverpool, too? Plus we look ahead to Philippe Coutinho’s Aston Villa debut, with Steven Gerrard’s men facing an out-of-sorts Man Utd for the second time in a week.
PART THREE | Jarrod Bowen is in fine form and we take a look at the numbers behind his recent purple patch and discuss how it is driving West Ham back into the top-four race after their dip in December. Ahead of their match with Leeds we also examine how injuries have made life tough for Marcelo Bielsa this season. And finally, will Brighton or Crystal Palace come out on top in their rivalry showdown on Friday night?

Premier League Review: Chelsea-Liverpool delights - but City the real winners | Arsenal progress clear in defeat | New year, same Everton Jan 03, 2022

In the first Essential Football Podcast of 2022, host Alice Piper is joined by Nick Wright and Richard Morgan to dissect an action-packed New Year’s round of Premier League fixtures which delivered, goals, drama, and may just have determined the destination of the title.
PART ONE | Has Chelsea 2-2 Liverpool stolen the game of the season title? Has the Premier League seen a better goal than Mateo Kovacic’s volley this season? Why Thomas Tuchel had no choice but to discipline Romelu Lukaku for his inflammatory interview. Plus, why Man City were the real winners at Stamford Bridge
PART TWO | Manchester City may not have been at their best at the Emirates but showed exactly why they are champions as Rodri’s dramatic late winner sealed an 11th-straight league win. The panel analyse exactly how City have emerged through a hectic festive period so far in front, and the unlikely series of events needed to deny them the title
PART THREE | Arsenal’s valiant defeat against Man City shows just how far the Gunners have come under Mikel Arteta; Antonio Conte continues to install steel at Spurs; West Ham underline top-four credentials; New Year, same old problems at Everton; Plus big wins for Brentford and Leeds United

Off Script: Jamie Carragher and the art of punditry Dec 24, 2021

Throughout his 17-year career at Liverpool, Jamie Carragher was an authoritative leader who never shied away from speaking his mind.
Those qualities have helped lay the foundations for his transition into punditry, a job many ex-players try their hand at, but one few master.
From delivering an iconic soundbite at the precise moment on the gantry, to having your finger on the pulse and setting the agenda in the studio, the life of a pundit involves balancing the unpredictable emotions of football with meticulous preparation.
In this edition of Off Script, Jack Wilkinson gets Carragher to reveal the secrets which have helped his become one of the country’s most-eminent pundits – and ahead of the competition…

Premier League Review: Spurs 2-2 Liverpool - the game of the season? | Are Chelsea out of title race? | Vibrant Arsenal & Martinelli shine Dec 20, 2021

In the latest Essential Football Podcast, host Alice Piper is joined by Ben Ransom and Gerard Brand to discuss an eventful weekend of Premier League football, despite only four games taking place.
PART ONE | Was Spurs 2-2 Liverpool the game of the season? Why Liverpool's weaknesses make for an outstanding spectacle, plus analysis of Man City's 4-0 win over Newcastle and another slip up for Chelsea
PART TWO | Arsenal shine again at Leeds, but do they really need a new striker given Gabriel Martinelli's form? Are Leeds in trouble? And would football really benefit from a Covid circuit-break?

Premier League Preview – Spurs' tricky preparation for Liverpool | Arsenal’s top-four chances | Man City on the charge Dec 17, 2021

On this week’s show we hear from former Tottenham defender Michael Dawson, and Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports football journalists Gerard Brand, Ben Grounds and Adam Bate to look ahead to the Premier League weekend.
PART 1 | After a series of postponements, Tottenham return to the field against a flying Liverpool side on Sunday. Just how hard is that as a player? Michael Dawson tells Sky's Kate Burlaga about the challenge facing Antonio Conte’s men.
PART 2 | Arsenal had a good midweek, moving fourth in the Premier League table with a win over West Ham. Can they stay there? Gerard Brand discusses their prospects. Plus, Ben Grounds tells us about his sitdown with Marcelo Bielsa in the wake of Leeds’ awful 7-0 defeat at the hands of Man City.
PART 3 | Indeed, Pep Guardiola’s side are on the title charge, with seven wins in a row. Adam Bate explains how the manager’s way of playing allows City to go on such devastating winning streaks – and, at the other end of the table, what their opponents this weekend, Newcastle, must do to stay up.

Premier League review: Will Man City, Liverpool pull away? Is Man Utd's bounce over already and what now for Auba? Dec 13, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports Digital Football Journalist Ron Walker and stat-guru Data Editor Adam Smith to review the weekend's Premier League action and look forward to a busy midweek in the top flight.
PART 1 | In a tale of three penalties, the panel consider whether it's Manchester City's title to lose after a sixth straight league win, and whether old foes Manchester United's new manager bounce is already over after an underwhelming win at Norwich. Plus the Premier League's handball rule gets a grilling, and following on from the final-day F1 drama the team come up with their best last-minute rule changes for the Premier League...
PART 2 | Steven Gerrard's emotional Anfield return ended in defeat, but did his former club Liverpool show their title credentials in grinding out another 1-0 win? In spite of a late victory over Leeds, did Chelsea showcase their issues at the back again - and how worried should they be? Plus on another bad day for Rafa Benitez the panel analyse what's going wrong at Everton, and assess another stellar performance from Crystal Palace's Conor Gallagher.
PART 3 | Is this the end for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's captaincy after another Arsenal indiscretion? Adam Smith makes the case for being patient with the young Gunners, while the team ask whether there's any time to wait for Newcastle after another bad result at Leicester. Plus: The midweek preview with big games on the cards for Burnley, West Ham and Watford.

Premier League Preview – Rangnick’s impact at Man Utd | Newcastle aiming to double up | Chelsea’s dip Dec 09, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports football journalists Ron Walker, Charlotte Marsh and Ben Grounds to look ahead to the Premier League weekend.
PART 1 | Ralf Rangnick’s start at Manchester United goes under the microscope ahead of their trip to Norwich. Plus, Steven Gerrard goes back to Anfield for the first time as a manager, when Aston Villa face Liverpool. We look at his start in the Midlands and that romantic return.
PART 2 | Leicester host Newcastle on Sunday, with Eddie Howe looking to land back-to-back wins for the Magpies. We assess their chances of doing that. Plus, after Everton’s last-gasp win over Arsenal, we build up to their Super Sunday clash with Crystal Palace and debate what Rafa Benitez must do to build on that victory.
PART 3 | We preview the Friday Night Football clash between Brentford and Watford, which starts a pivotal run of games for Claudio Ranieri’s side, and also take a look at Chelsea’s recent drop in form.

Premier League Review – Chelsea, Liverpool, and Man City’s ever-evolving title race | PL predictions | Ralf Rangnick’s revolution under way Dec 06, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports’ senior journalists Peter Smith and Richard Morgan, and digital journalist Jack Wilkinson, to dissect another eventful round of Premier League action.
PART 1 | After Chelsea let a two-goal lead slip at the West Ham, the panel assess how injuries and mistakes are just starting to catch up with Thomas Tuchel’s side, while sparing a word for the superb job David Moyes’ continues to do with his top-four chasing Hammers.
PART 2 | Defeat at the London Stadium left the door open to Chelsea’s title rivals, and by the time Saturdays was over, the former league leaders were down in third. After his winner at Molineux, Richard Morgan analyses the impact cult hero Divock Origi has had throughout his spell at Liverpool, before Peter Smith casts his eye over another Bernardo Silva-inspired for champions Man City.
PART 3 | Sunday saw the dawn of a new era at Man Utd as Ralf Rangnick claimed his first victory at interim boss against Crystal Palace. Jack Wilkinson explains why there were early signs of encouragement that the Old Trafford club may just be heading in the right direction.

Premier League Preview – Gerrard’s Villa impact assessed | Rafa’s problems at Everton | Brilliant Bernardo Silva Dec 03, 2021

Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports News Midlands reporter Rob Dorsett, features writer Nick Wright and football journalist Oliver Yew to look ahead to the Premier League weekend.
PART 1 | Rob Dorsett discusses Steven Gerrard’s impact at Aston Villa, the club’s ambitious plans, and the reasons behind Leicester’s underwhelming start to the season.
PART 2 | Nick Wright assesses the problems facing Rafa Benitez at Everton and what Mikel Arteta must do to get a misfiring Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang back in form.
PART 3 | Oliver Yew reflects on Bernardo Silva’s brilliant performances for Manchester City, the strength in depth at Pep Guardiola’s disposal, and whether there’s a chance of an upset at Watford.

Premier League Review: Was Carrick right to drop Ronaldo? Pressure on Rafa ahead of derby, Howe's problems and title tips Nov 29, 2021

On the latest Essential Football Podcast Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports football writers Gerard Brand and Ben Grounds to look back on another big weekend at both ends of the Premier League table after Chelsea's lead slipped following a 1-1 draw with Man Utd at Stamford Bridge.
PART 1 | Was Michael Carrick right to opt against starting Cristiano Ronaldo - and should United have signed him at all? United's interim-to-the-interim manager's tactics are assessed ahead of Ralf Rangnick's arrival, questions raised over Chelsea's attacking prowess, while will Arsenal fancy facing this United side next given their own form?
PART 2 | Where does another bad result at Brentford leave Everton boss Rafa Benitez ahead of the Merseyside derby in midweek? Do Liverpool have anything to fear? And the curious case of Marcelo Bielsa and Kalvin Phillips...
PART 3 | Newcastle show Eddie Howe the scale of the task ahead of him with a six-pointer against Norwich next up, Aston Villa grind their way to victory again - and with two points separating the top three, who's going to win the Premier League?

Premier League Preview – Expect a 'whirlwind' impact from Rangnick at Man Utd | His objectives | Plus: Brighton, Brentford analysis Nov 25, 2021

Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith, and football journalist Simeon Gholam to look ahead to the Premier League weekend.
PART 1 | Alan Smith discusses Ralf Rangnick’s appointment as Man Utd interim boss, what he will bring to the club, and how he could help their young players kick on. Is he paving the way for Mauricio Pochettino? Alan assesses Rangnick’s consultancy role, which is planned to start next summer, too.
PART 2 | Simeon Gholam breaks down Brighton’s mixed start to the campaign and what they need to do to get back to winning ways against Leeds.
PART 3 | Simeon – our EFL Editor – also looks at newly-promoted Brentford, who have also had a good start followed by a frustrating period, ahead of their Super Sunday clash with Everton.

Manchester United special - Ole’s demise and who next? Plus Conte, Howe, Smith, Gerrard and more Nov 22, 2021

In a special edition of the Essential Football Podcast after a seismic 48 hours in the Premier League, Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports News’ north-west reporter Ben Ransom, plus Sky Sports features editor Pete Smith and writer Nick Wright to reflect - and look forward - on events at Manchester United as well as the rest of the division.
PART 1 | Was the writing on the wall for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer? What went wrong, what problems remain at Old Trafford and are they in a better position than when he came in? Did Cristiano Ronaldo prove a kiss of death after all?
PART 2 | Who should replace Solskjaer in the hotseat? The runners and riders are discussed, and questions asked about the club’s plans to introduce an ‘interim’ interim manager to follow Michael Carrick until the end of the season.
PART 3 | Senior football journalist Gerard Brand joins the team to discuss Tottenham’s turnaround against Leeds and Antonio Conte’s passion, Steven Gerrard’s winning start at Aston Villa plus the first glimpse of Norwich and Newcastle under new management - and Manchester City ‘going under the radar’ despite another fine win over Everton.

Premier League Preview – Graeme Souness on ‘angry’ Liverpool’s point to prove | Delph’s impressive return | Kane’s confidence boost Nov 18, 2021

Premier League Preview – Souness on ‘angry’ Liverpool’s point to prove vs Arsenal | Delph’s impressive return |Kane’s confidence boost
Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness, and football writers Oliver Yew and Ben Grounds to look ahead to the Premier League weekend.
PART 1 | How will Liverpool respond after their first defeat of the season? Graeme Souness explains why they’ll be ‘full throttle’ against an Arsenal side who, he feels, are still a long way off, despite their recent unbeaten run
PART 2 | Oliver Yew and Ben Grounds look at the contrasting impacts of Jack Grealish and Gabriel Jesus this season, and discuss Fabien Delph’s surprise return to form with Everton, ahead of his side’s trip to a club he won two Premier League titles with
PART 3 | Harry Kane scored seven goals in two games during the international break but will that translate to the Premier League? We talk Tottenham ahead of Antonio Conte’s first home league game in charge, and explain the reasons behind Leeds’ slow start.

Women’s Football Weekend Review – Miedema magic, Man City under pressure and can Jean-Luc Vasseur mould a talented Everton squad? Nov 15, 2021

Charlotte Marsh is joined by Sky Sports’ lead WSL commentator Seb Hutchinson, co-commentator and former England goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain and Sky Sports News’ Anton Toloui to look back on a busy Women’s Football Weekend.
PART 1 | Will Tottenham or Arsenal be happy with a North London derby point? Arsenal’s Vivianne Miedema continues to show her class. Plus just what has been going wrong for Man City this season after another WSL defeat, as Chelsea close the gap on Arsenal.
PART 2 | Siobhan gives an insight into Everton’s equaliser from a player and goalkeeper perspective, and can Jean-Luc Vasseur mould his talented squad? Reading hit back for a draw at West Ham, Birmingham and Leicester struggle again.
PART 3 | The success of Women’s Football Weekend and the joys of the WSL. Plus Anton give us a transfer update and a rundown of the top five summer signings this season.

Women's Football Weekend Preview: Special guests Lucy Bronze, Gilly Flaherty and Sophie Haywood preview a huge WSL weekend Nov 11, 2021

On a special Women's Football Weekend edition of the Essential Football Podcast, digital football journalist Charlotte Marsh and Sky Sports WSL presenter Caroline Barker are joined by a trio of great guests to preview the weekend's action.
In Part 1, Ballon D'Or runner-up Lucy Bronze gives some unique insight into Everton's new manager Jean-Luc Vasseur and looks forward to their televised clash with Man Utd this weekend, while explaining why Man City's season has got off to a rocky start ahead of their game with champions Chelsea.
In part 2, Gilly Flaherty ponders why Tottenham have started the season so well and whether Arsenal can go unbeaten with a north London derby on the way this weekend, and looks forward to her West Ham side taking on Reading on the back of their own solid start.
In part 3, Sophie Haywood explains how Aston Villa have kicked on from last season ahead of their second-city derby with Birmingham, and considers why Leicester have found the jump to the top flight tough as they face Hope Powell's in-form Brighton side.

Off Script: Inside Liverpool's transfers with Jamie Carragher Nov 10, 2021

As Off Script returns, Jamie Carragher takes a deep dive into Liverpool's transfer during his time at the club.
After falling just short of the Premier League title on two occasions during his 17 years at Anfield, could the recruitment have been improved?
Which player arrivals brought the most - and least! - excitement in the dressing room?
And what issues do Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool have to navigate in the transfer market with the current crop of players?

Premier League review: West Ham for the top four? What now for Man Utd? Plus the season so far awards… Nov 08, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by senior football journalist Gerard Brand, Sky Sports features writer Nick Wright and digital football journalist Ron Walker to discuss the weekend's Premier League action - and Monday's fallout.
PART 1 | West Ham stun Liverpool to continue their remarkable start to the season. Can David Moyes’ side finish in the top four this season? Can they mount a serious Premier League title challenge? Plus, Liverpool’s slip up in east London and Arsenal’s rise continues.
PART 2 | The pressure continues to increase on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at Manchester United following their Manchester derby defeat to Manchester City. What’s next for Solskjaer and Man Utd? The axe has already wielded on Daniel Farke at Norwich and Dean Smith at Aston Villa? We discuss the next moves of both clubs…
PART 3 | And finally, we put our panel to test in our Essential Football podcast awards. With over a quarter of the season gone, who has been the player of the season so far? Who is the signing of the season? Who will win the Premier League title? The panel give the verdicts on those questions and much more…

Manchester derby preview: Man Utd’s injury problems at the back | Must-win for Man City? | Big match prediction Nov 04, 2021

Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports football journalists Richard Morgan and Ben Grounds to discuss the huge Saturday lunchtime showdown between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford.
PART 1 | How are the two rivals shaping up for the big clash? We weigh up how Man Utd’s injury concerns in defence could affect their approach, while we ask whether Jack Grealish is living up to his big price tag and the reasons behind some inconsistent form from the defending champions. Is this match now a must-win for them with Chelsea pulling clear at the top of the Premier League?
PART 2 | Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has a winning record against Pep Guardiola so what’s the secret to his success in this rivalry? And how will the clash go on Saturday? We make our big match predictions!

Premier League review: Nuno out! Conte in? Have United papered over the cracks? Smith's Villa problems and more Nov 01, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports News reporter Ben Ransom, Sky Sports features writer Nick Wright and digital football journalist Charlotte Marsh to discuss the weekend's Premier League action - and Monday's fallout.
PART 1 | Were Spurs right to sack Nuno Espirito Santo? Where did it go wrong in four short months? How do Manchester United build after beating them, and can Jadon Sancho fit in? Plus Man City's blip, and more good signs for Crystal Palace.
PART 2 | How much is the pressure rising on Dean Smith after Aston Villa's four defeats on the spin? How good is Declan Rice, and the job David Moyes is doing at West Ham?
PART 3 | What has Aaron Ramsdale brought to Arsenal to shake off his critics - and theirs? Should winless Norwich stick or twist after another disappointing result against Leeds? And can Marcelo Bielsa's side finally build themselves?

Premier League Preview: Redknapp's Tottenham vs Man Utd verdict | Will West Ham's rise continue? | Problems for Norwich, Everton Oct 28, 2021

Pete Smith is joined by Jamie Redknapp, Oliver Yew and Simeon Gholam to preview another bumper weekend of Premier League action.
PART 1 | Jamie Redknapp previews the Saturday Night Football clash between Tottenham and Manchester United. Will United bounce back from their humiliating 5-0 defeat to Liverpool last weekend?
PART 2 | Pete Smith is joined by Oliver Yew and Simeon Gholam to look ahead to Aston Villa vs West Ham on Super Sunday. West Ham's season continues to get better and better after their Carabao Cup victory against Man City. Will that good run continue at Villa Park?
PART 3 | Norwich vs Leeds on Super Sunday and Wolves vs Everton on Monday Night Football: Pressure building on Daniel Farke, Rafael Benitez looking for solutions.

Premier League Review: Where next for Ole and Man Utd? Will Salah stay or go? Is Rafa's 'honeymoon' over? Oct 25, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports features editor Peter Smith and senior football journalist Gerard Brand to discuss the weekend's Premier League action.
PART 1 | Where now for Manchester United, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer? Will 'best player in thew world' Mo Salah stay at Liverpool?
PART 2 | What does Everton's capitulation against Watford mean for Rafa Benitez's start on Merseyside? Has the Tinkerman given Watford new hope? And the changing of the guard as West Ham see off Spurs...
PART 3 | Where did it all go right for Arsenal, and wrong for Aston Villa? Phil Foden, Man City and Bernardo Silva discussed, plus Newcastle, Burnley, Chelsea, Norwich, and Youri Tielemans' right foot.

Premier League Preview: Carra's big Man Utd vs Liverpool preview | Does Dele Alli now need a fresh start? Oct 22, 2021

Pete Smith is joined by Jamie Carragher, Michael Bridge and Oliver Yew to preview another bumper weekend of Premier League action.
PART 1 | Jamie Carragher's big Manchester United vs Liverpool preview
PART 2 | Michael Bridge on West Ham vs Spurs, and why Dele Alli my need a fresh start
PART 3 | Arsenal vs Aston Villa on Friday Night Football and Brighton vs Man City on Saturday Night Football: City look devastating again, Cole Palmer focus

Premier League Review: Does Ronaldo really improve Man Utd? Make or break few weeks for Solskjaer and Toon party spoiled Oct 18, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by Ben Ransom and Gerard Brand to discuss the weekend's Premier League action.
PART 1 | Does Cristiano Ronaldo really improve Man Utd? Make or break few weeks for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after defeat at Leicester
PART 2 | Liverpool back to their best, Chelsea grab lucky win, and what's behind Bernardo Silva's upturn in form at Man City?
PART 3 | Spurs spoil Newcastle's party: did the new owners miss a trick by not sacking Steve Bruce?

Premier League preview: Newcastle’s new era begins | Secrets to Brentford’s success | Next steps for Everton, West Ham Oct 14, 2021

Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports News reporter Keith Downie, as well as assistant news editor Lyall Thomas and football journalist Ron Walker to look ahead to the Premier League weekend…
PART 1 | Keith Downie answers the key questions about the Newcastle takeover, from transfer spending and how the new owners intend to take the club forwards to issues around human rights in Saudi Arabia.
PART 2 | Lyall Thomas and Ron Walker lift the lid on the story behind Brentford’s impressive start to their first Premier League season and the secrets behind their steady progress in recent years.
PART 3 | As David Moyes prepares to take his current club to face his former club, we discuss the next steps for West Ham and Everton – and the impact Rafa Benitez has had at Goodison Park.

Premier League Review: Liverpool-City serves up classic | Three-horse title race? | Brentford ripping up rulebook Oct 04, 2021

As the Premier League pauses for the second international break of the season, Sky Sports features writer Nick Wright and football journalist Charlotte Marsh join Alice Piper to survey the scene in the top-flight after another fascinating round of fixtures…
PART 1 | After the drama, goals, and controversy in Sunday’s breathless encounter between Liverpool and Man City, we’ll have all the fallout from Anfield and ask if there is a better player in world football currently than Mohamed Salah after his inspired performance and goal-of-the-season contender.
PART 2 | With Man City and Liverpool’s draw ensuring Chelsea remained top of the pile heading into the international break, we assess the state of the Premier League title race and ask whether it is a three-horse race after Man Utd became the latest side to fall victim to Rafa Benitez’s Everton revolution.
PART 3 | As the rulebook for newly-promoted sides continues to be ripped up, we try and identify the secrets of Brentford’s sensational start to life in the Premier League, before examining where it went wrong for Xisco Munoz at Watford, and why something special might be brewing at Crystal Palace.

Premier League preview: Redknapp’s Liverpool vs Man City verdict | Will Arsenal build on derby win? | Leicester’s slow start Sep 30, 2021

Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp, as well as football writers Gerard Brand and Simeon Gholam, to look ahead to the Premier League weekend…
PART 1 | Jamie Redknapp explains why he thinks Liverpool will edge their big match-up with Man City at Anfield on Sunday. The Sky Sports pundit also discusses the rise of Curtis Jones and City’s threat in attack.
PART 2 | We consider whether Arsenal are now in a position to build on their big derby day win over Tottenham when they go to Brighton. And what constitutes success for the Seagulls this season?
PART 3 | There’s plenty of praise for Conor Gallagher as we discuss Crystal Palace’s improving form and the Chelsea loanee’s future, before we examine a slow start to the season from Leicester.

Premier League Review: Man City’s statement at Chelsea | Man Utd and Liverpool falter | Arsenal ruthlessly expose Spurs’ frailties Sep 27, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports features editor Peter Smith and football journalist Ron Walker to reflect on another enthralling round of Premier League action…
PART 1 | As Manchester City, who were underdogs for the first time under Pep Guardiola, win at Chelsea, we assess whether the champions are still the team to beat and where Thomas Tuchel got it wrong.
PART 2 | As Chelsea leave the door ajar, we assess a testing weekend for Manchester United and Liverpool as both title hopefuls fail to seize the advantage against Aston Villa and Brentford.
PART 3 | Arsenal’s resounding North London derby victory drew an emphatic line under their testing start to the season but have the Gunners turned the corner, and what’s going on at Tottenham?

Premier League Preview: North London derby assessed | Chelsea vs Man City to reveal title favourite? | Liverpool’s encouraging start Sep 23, 2021

Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith, as well as football writers Ben Grounds and Adam Bate, to look ahead to the Premier League weekend’s standout fixtures…
PART 1 | Will a north London derby win be a launchpad for Arsenal or Tottenham? Former Gunner Alan Smith gives his verdict on the two teams and where the match will be won or lost on Sunday.
PART 2 | We preview Man City’s trip to Chelsea on Saturday, where two title favourites collide, and reflect on the start made by another Premier League challenger in Liverpool, ahead of their game with Brentford.
PART 3 | After an encouraging draw at Man City, will Southampton get off the mark against a goal-shy Wolves this weekend? And we look at what Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira has to do to land a breakthrough win over Brighton on MNF.

Premier League Review: Ruthless Chelsea, Kane's tough start, De Gea's redemption, Liverpool's depth Sep 20, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports football features editor Peter Smith and writer Nick Wright to discuss the big talking points from the weekend's action as Chelsea and Liverpool move joint top of the Premier League with 3-0 wins.
PART 1 | Did Chelsea show their title credentials with their second-half performance at Tottenham? How did Lukaku contribute despite not scoring? And what’s happening with Harry Kane?
PART 2 | How much was Manchester United’s win at West Ham down to David De Gea, and how much down to David Moyes’ unusual substitutions? How far are United away from hitting top gear? Are Arsenal on their way back after passing Burnley test?
PART 3 | Are Brighton finally proving the virtue of patience under Graham Potter? Why have Leicester started so slowly? And who else has caught the eye this week?

Premier League Preview: Michael Dawson on how Spurs should deal with Lukaku | Why Solskjaer is never more than 2 games from a Man Utd crisis Sep 17, 2021

Michael Dawson, Gerard Brand and Ben Ransom join Alice Piper and Kate Burlaga in the latest Premier League weekend preview.
PART 1 | Michael Dawson previews Spurs vs Chelsea - how should Tottenham deal with Romelu Lukaku?
PART 2 | West Ham vs Man Utd preview - why Solskjaer is always on the edge; what is success for the Man Utd manager this season?
PART 3 | Weekend preview round-up: Liverpool, Arsenal and Man City in Saturday 3pm action

Playing for the Planet Episode 6 - Gary Neville: “These are the most dangerous issues in the world now - division & destroying the planet." Sep 15, 2021

Like all the best albums from the 1990s, they leave you wanting more and they have a bonus track. In this extra episode, we focus on #GameZero - the first ever elite-level net zero carbon football match which will be live on Sky between Tottenham and Chelsea on Sunday September 19. Sky Sports presenter David Garrido speaks to pundit Gary Neville who is a big advocate for climate action and has always had a strong environmental focus, as well as director of football Gary Hughes who explains exactly how we're going to make this huge London derby net zero carbon. Neville also tells us how critical the climate crisis is, how powerful the world of football could be to pull the planet back from the brink, but find out where he might not actually be able to travel to by train...
By David Garrido

Playing for the Planet Episode 5 - Dale Vince: “Our fans have changed how they live – veggie, vegan, electric cars, solar panels…” Sep 14, 2021

Time to be inspired. No doubt, Forest Green Rovers are THE greenest football club in the world. Endorsed as such by both FIFA and the United Nations, they are a true beacon for climate action. Sky Sports presenter David Garrido learns from chairman Dale Vince just how they got there, including only-vegan fare, electric charging points, solar panels, an organic pitch…and we find out what their latest 100% sustainable shirt is made out of. Vince also called out governing bodies to make a big impact, while head coach Rob Edwards tells us about his journey, how it’s changed his mindset, what new attitudes he and his team are adopting and how it’s benefitting their push for promotion to League 1.
By David Garrido

Premier League Review: Ronaldo's sensational double, the Lukaku show and Liverpool's bright start Sep 13, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports football writers Charlotte Marsh and Ron Walker to discuss the big talking points from the weekend's action as Premier League football returns after the international break.
PART 1 | Ronaldo's second debut assessed, what did he change? Can he lead Man Utd to the title? Will Newcastle fans' protest against Steve Bruce change anything? (0:48)
PART 2 | Is Romelu Lukaku the 'complete striker'? Are Chelsea showing their title credentials, and what does a first win - and goal - of the season do for Mikel Arteta? (16:58)
PART 3 | What does Liverpool's bright start mean for their title challenge? Have Spurs hit a bump? And who's caught the eye in the opening weeks of the season? (32:17)

Playing for the Planet Episode 4 - Sofie Junge Pedersen: “We will see more heart attacks in the future from the heat…” Sep 13, 2021

Football is vulnerable to climate change, just as much as it was to Covid-19 which caused seasons to be suspended with no matches played for months. The dangers are different, but just as stark if not more so. In this episode, Sky Sports presenter David Garrido talks to PSG’s Arianna Criscione and Juventus player Sofie Junge Pedersen about how extreme weather can have such a huge impact and, at worst, put lives at risk on the football pitch. Criscione and Pedersen also come up with some creative solutions to help fight the climate crisis, as it’s clearly something where football has a big role to play. And find out which tournament they reckon should make its name as “climate-purposeful”…
By David Garrido

Premier League Preview: Souness on Leeds vs Liverpool | Ronaldo’s return | Chelsea’s title hopes Sep 10, 2021

Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness joins the Essential Football Podcast as Alice Piper, Peter Smith and Richard Morgan discuss the big talking points ahead of the Premier League weekend.
PART 1 | Souness’ verdict on Leeds vs Liverpool, Virgil van Dijk’s comeback, and Elland Road memories
PART 2 | Chelsea’s title chances, what Saul Niguez brings to the team, and how international issues will affect Chelsea and Aston Villa
PART 3 | What can we expect from Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United? And is Gareth Southgate’s first choice England XI now set in stone?

Playing for the Planet Episode 3 - Carlo Cudicini: “If Lionel or Cristiano are listening, we’d love to have them on board…” Sep 10, 2021

After spending most of his career keeping strikers out, Carlo Cudicini is now reaching out to the planet’s two most talented footballers…and he’s after their kit! Sky Sports presenter David Garrido chats to the now-loan player technical coach at Chelsea who has his own organisation, Footballers4Change. Its objective is to collect the match-worn shirts and boots of players (and indeed their families’ clothes) to extend the lifecycle of those items and raise money for charity in the process. Cudicini gives us his views on fast fashion, and talks us through some of the gear donated by the likes of Gareth Southgate, Cesc Fabregas and Eden Hazard, including a very specific use for the Belgian’s size 6 trainers!
By David Garrido

Playing for the Planet Episode 2 - Chris Smalling: “Reducing red meat made my tendonitis go away…” Sep 09, 2021

Going plant-based is one of the latest food revelations, and footballers in particular are discovering the benefits of cutting meat, dairy and fish from their diets. In this episode, Sky Sports presenter David Garrido speaks to 2 big advocates of veganism, AS Roma centre-back Chris Smalling and Arsenal defender Jen Beattie on how it has helped them improve as athletes, especially around injuries. It’s also informed their life viewpoint on sustainability and encouraged them to take up other climate-positive activities in order to protect the planet. And in this ep, a plan is hatched to get one of the biggest managers in world football to join them for a plant-based feast over at Chris’ place for the sequel…
By David Garrido

Playing for the Planet Episode 1 - Patrick Bamford: “Imagine being Leeds' No 9 in the PL, and having an iconic celebration…” Sep 08, 2021

We start our series with Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford – it’s the first time that he has spoken at length on the topic of climate change. In this exclusive chat with Sky Sports presenter David Garrido, Bamford explains what his motives are for fighting against the climate emergency, just how he came up with the “Bolt for Planet” celebration, despite what Aston Villa fans thought he was saying with the gesture! The 28-year-old talks openly about making changes to his life to reduce his own carbon footprint, how it’s ok to be an imperfect environmentalist, how he tries to inspire the youth of tomorrow, and find out which rival striker has been such an inspiration for him to continue his impactful work.
By David Garrido

Premier League Review: How Ronaldo outcome will define Ole era; Who is to blame for Arsenal crisis? Plus: Chelsea show mettle Aug 30, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by Peter Smith and Gerard Brand to run through the weekend's Premier League action after a memorable week on and off the pitch.
PART 1 | Will Cristiano Ronaldo play every game for Man Utd? Win at Wolves analysed, and is midfield still a problem for Solskjaer? (01:15)
PART 2 | Arsenal's wretched defending at City analysed; who is to blame for the latest crisis? What does Arteta need to show to keep his job? Do City even need a striker? (25:23)
PART 3 | Are Chelsea's handball complaints justified? Blues' draw at Liverpool assessed, plus: Everton, Spurs and Conor Gallagher impress (41:16)

Premier League Preview: Jamie Redknapp on Liverpool vs Chelsea and Harry Kane’s golf skills! | Plus: Man Utd on the brink of a record Aug 26, 2021

Liverpool and Chelsea go head-to-head at Anfield live on Sky Sports on Saturday night and Jamie Redknapp joins Peter Smith on the Essential Football Podcast to preview the big clash between two Premier League title hopefuls.
PART 1: It’s Virgil Van Dijk vs Romelu Lukaku at Anfield this weekend – but who will come out on top? Jamie Redknapp gives his verdict. Plus, the Sky Sports pundit reflects on Harry Kane staying at Spurs – and reveals what the striker is like on the golf course!
PART 2: Sky Sports Football journalist Charlotte Marsh takes a look at a new role for Adama Traore for a Wolves side who have managed 42 shots but 0 goals in their first two Premier League games, and we dissect Man Utd’s remarkable run of results away from home.
PART 3: We preview Leeds’ trip to Burnley and Data Editor Adam Smith names the statistically best-performing English players across Europe from the opening rounds – with several surprise names in the side!

Premier League Review: Lukaku’s ‘dominant’ second coming; Arteta’s Arsenal already under pressure Aug 23, 2021

The second weekend of the 2021/22 Premier League season will forever be remembered for the second coming of Romelu Lukaku at Chelsea. Alice Piper is joined by Nick Wright, Ron Walker and Oliver Yew to reflect on Lukaku’s emphatic second Chelsea debut at the Emirates Stadium, and what the display means for Thomas Tuchel’s title challengers, as well as Mikel Arteta’s winless Gunners…
PART 1: Chelsea smashed their transfer record to bring Lukaku back to Stamford Bridge from Inter Milan but it already looks like money well spent after just one afternoon in north London. The panel examine Lukaku’s performance, how easily he adapted back to life in the Premier League, and how he will be that focal point Chelsea have been craving through the coming season. Attention then turns to Arsenal, who have lost their opening two games of the season and were subjected to boos at half-time and full-time from their own supporters. With Man City on the horizon, the pressure is already on Arteta.
PART 2: After Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Jurgen Klopp’s comments on the danger of Premier League rule changes transforming football into more physical sports like rugby and wrestling, the panel discuss whether Jack Stephens did indeed foul Bruno Fernandes in the build-up to Southampton’s goal against Man Utd, and whether the new interpretation of rules around contact have improved the game.
PART 3: Danny Ings scored his first home goal for Aston Villa with a sensational acrobatic strike against Newcastle. But was it a bicycle kick or an overhead kick – and what’s the difference? After Jack Grealish opened his Man City account in somewhat fortuitous style, we assess his start to life with the champions and how team-mate Gabriel Jesus positional change could free up space for a certain Harry Kane, who made an appearance in Tottenham’s win at Wolves.

Premier League preview: Will Lukaku get off to a flyer for Chelsea at Arsenal? Plus: Pogba’s best role and the lowdown on Watford Aug 19, 2021

After a blockbuster opening weekend of the Premier League we’re gearing up to go again, with Arsenal vs Chelsea a headline fixture and set to feature the Blues' new striker Romelu Lukaku. Peter Smith is joined by Gerard Brand, Adam Smith, Nick Wright, and Ron Walker to look ahead to another big round of games...
PART 1: Will Romelu Lukaku fire Chelsea to a Premier League title challenge? And are Arsenal really in crisis? We assess both sides who go into a London derby in contrasting moods.
PART 2: Paul Pogba starred in Man Utd’s win over Leeds with four assists – so how does Ole Gunnar Solskjaer keep getting performances like that out of him? And with Raphael Varane primed for his debut, do Man Utd now have all the pieces in place to become champions?
PART 3: Watford returned to the Premier League in style with a 3-2 win over Aston Villa on the opening weekend. We tell the story behind some of their new signings and examine their prospects this term. Plus we hear how a drive down the M6 was transformative for Brighton defender Shane Duffy…

Premier League review: Spurs shine without Kane, Man City’s title rivals impress, and brilliant Brentford put pressure on Arsenal Aug 16, 2021

The Premier League returned with a bang! Goals, standout scorelines, and, most importantly, fans packing out stadiums and creating incredible atmospheres across the country. Peter Smith is joined by Adam Bate and Charlotte Marsh to assess the opening weekend of the season.
PART 1: Nuno’s Tottenham off to a flyer without Harry Kane – but what does defeat mean for Man City and their pursuit of the striker?
PART 2: Three title hopefuls make a big statement. We analyse the impressive wins for Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool and consider their prospects of sustaining a tilt at the title.
PART 3: Wonderful Watford. Brilliant Brentford. Awful Arsenal. How two new arrivals from the Championship got off to ideal starts and the problems facing Mikel Arteta and the Gunners, with the pressure already mounting on his side.

2021/22 Premier League season preview: City still the team to beat? Challengers assessed, surprise package & how will promoted trio fare? Aug 12, 2021

The Premier League is back! New signings, new teams, old rivalries resumed and fresh hope, all to the sweet sound of full stadiums. Kate Burlaga is joined by Nick Wright and Gerard Brand to preview another nine months of drama in the top flight.
PART 1: (02:24) Are City still the side to beat? And who will challenge them? Man Utd, Chelsea, Liverpool assessed
PART 2: (12:00) Will the north London gloom lift? Leicester in focus and surprise package: Leeds, Aston Villa and Everton tipped
PART 3: (28:14) How will promoted trio Brentford, Watford and Norwich fare? Plus: New managers assessed, and can West Ham deal with European distraction?

Leicester's Community Shield win analysed | Grealish's debut assessed Aug 07, 2021

Leicester got their season off to the perfect start with victory over Manchester City to claim the Community Shield at Wembley - where £100m man Jack Grealish had to wait for his City debut.
Alice Piper is joined by Pete Smith and Ron Walker to look back on Kelechi Iheancho's late winner, what the result means for both sides and how they are faring ahead of the return of the Premier League next weekend.

Heartbreak for England, but glass is half full | Euro 2020 final review Jul 12, 2021

It was penalty shootout heartbreak again for England and Gareth Southgate in a crushing Euro 2020 final defeat to Italy.
Alice Piper is joined by Pete Smith and Gerard Brand to reflect on a dramatic Euro 2020 final, with England unable to mark their progress with the silverware.

The Euro 2020 Final preview: Will England lift the trophy? | Selection dilemmas, tactical analysis, key players, and the view from Italy Jul 09, 2021

England are preparing for their first ever Euros final – but can they beat Italy to lift the trophy?
Jasper Taylor is joined by Kaveh Solhekol, Peter Smith and Oliver Yew to discuss what Gareth Southgate’s side will have to do to make sure they come out on top in Sunday’s showdown. Sky Italia reporter Valentina Fass is also on the show to give us an insight into the Italian camp, the team’s renaissance under Robert Mancini, and what Italian supporters think of this England side.
Plus we hear from Gary Neville on the incredible atmosphere at Wembley and how that affects players, and Jamie Redknapp on why stopping Jorginho could be the key to England’s hopes.

It's nearly home... England one step from glory after nail-biting win over Denmark | How the 'new England' could go all the way Jul 08, 2021

Drink it in... England are in a major tournament final for the first time since 1966 after their extra-time win over Denmark at Wembley in semi-final of Euro 2020.
Kate Burlaga is joined by Rob Dorsett, Pete Smith and Nick Wright to discuss an historic night, and whether this 'new England' side can go all the way against Italy on Sunday.

England vs Denmark tactical analysis | Will Southgate go to a back three? | Is Sterling player of the tournament? | Italy vs Spain preview Jul 05, 2021

In the latest Sky Sports Football Euros podcast, Peter Smith is joined by Ben Ransom, Nick Wright and Gerard Brand to preview England's Euro 2020 semi-final with Denmark at Wembley on Wednesday.
Will Gareth Southgate go to a back three? What threats do Denmark pose on England's watertight defence? What can England learn from October's Nations League defeat against the Danes? And has Raheem Sterling been the overall player of the tournament so far?
Plus, we preview the other semi-final as Italy face Spain on Tuesday night at Wembley.

England in dreamland! Southgate's perfect night as Ukraine are humbled | Shaw shows up Mourinho | Kane praise | Denmark preview Jul 03, 2021

It doesn't get much more comfortable than that. England's controlled and dominant 4-0 win over Ukraine means they will face Denmark in the Euro 2020 semi-final at Wembley on Wednesday. Are the stars aligning for Gareth Southgate's side? And how has he managed to rid England of the fear factor?
Alice Piper is joined by Rob Dorsett, Adam Bate and Gerard Brand to discuss the win in Rome, as Harry Kane returns to form, Luke Shaw shows up Jose Mourinho in his new manor and England keep another clean sheet. It's all looking rosy, right?

Spain into the semis – but what’s missing? | Are Italy the best team still standing? | England tactics talk ahead of Ukraine QF Jul 03, 2021

Spain and Italy booked a semi-final date at Wembley with their wins over Switzerland and Belgium, respectively, on Friday night. Now it’s over to Czech Republic, Denmark, Ukraine and England...
Kate Burlaga is joined by Sky Sports’ Peter Smith, Adam Bate, and Nick Wright to analyse those first two quarter-finals, with the panel discussing the strengths – and vulnerabilities – of Spain and what makes Italy such an effective opposition.
Plus the guests look ahead to England’s Saturday showdown with Ukraine in Rome, weighing up the team selection dilemmas Gareth Southgate has for the big game and where it will be won or lost.

Jamie Carragher: England are now favourites | Germany win verdict and team selection vs Ukraine | Other quarter-finals assessed Jun 30, 2021

After beating Germany, England are now favourites to go on and win Euro 2020. That was Jamie Carragher’s verdict when he joined the Sky Sports Football Euros Podcast to reflect on England’s historic victory over their old rivals at Wembley. He explains why that win could propel Gareth Southgate’s side to new heights and also assesses the key performers in the squad and how the manager may shake things up again for the quarter-final with Ukraine.
In part two of the show, Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports football writer Charlotte Marsh and Sky Sports data editor Adam Smith to examine the three other quarter-finals and they try to work out who will go through from the ties involving Switzerland vs Spain, Belgium vs Italy, and Czech Republic vs Denmark.

Southgate proves he knows best | Is it final minimum now for England? | Football's coming, Rome! Ukraine scouting report Jun 30, 2021

No, you didn't dream it. England have beaten Germany in a knockout game, winning 2-0 at Wembley on an historic night to clear the path through Euro 2020. Alice Piper is joined by Rob Dorsett, Pete Smith and Gerard Brand to discuss the famous victory, including how Gareth Southgate once again proved his critics wrong.
With Ukraine up next, and Denmark or Czech Republic waiting in the semi-final, is the final now a minimum expectation for England? With Southgate's side favourites, how will they set up? Plus: praise for Sterling, Grealish, Saka, Pickford, Kane and... well, just about everyone.
And in part 3, Oli Yew pops in for a Ukraine scouting report after their last-gasp extra-time win over Sweden. Should they be feared? All roads lead to Rome for Saturday's quarter-final tie...

“This is the game of our lives” | Gary Neville’s England vs Germany verdict | Tactics, Sterling’s importance, and lessons from Euro 96 Jun 28, 2021

Gary Neville joins Peter Smith ahead of England vs Germany to talk tactics ahead of the big last-16 tie at Euro 2020 at Wembley.
The Sky Sports pundit explains how playing a back three can help England nullify Germany’s wing-backs but also give the Three Lions’ attack the chance to “cause massive problems” at the other end.
Neville also discusses Raheem Sterling’s leading role in the team, what the current generation can learn from Euro 96 heartbreak against Germany, and why he believes England can edge past their old rivals…

"It's going to penalties!" | Jamie Carragher's England vs Germany verdict | Defence analysed, Henderson's role, why Saka has to start Jun 28, 2021

Is it going to happen again? Jamie Carragher is convinced England vs Germany is heading to penalties when they meet in the last-16 of Euro 2020 at Wembley on Tuesday.
The Sky Sports pundit joined Peter Smith to examine the clash and explain why these two evenly matched sides may end up only being separated by spot-kicks.
Carragher also dissects England's defence, which has kept three clean sheets, explains the factors Gareth Southgate will be weighing up when he decides to pick Jordan Henderson or not, and discusses whether Mason Mount or Ben Chilwell could still play a role, despite isolating until Monday.

Wales’ Euro 2020 adventure ends | Where did it go wrong and what now for Rob Page’s side? | Italy's unbeaten run goes on Jun 27, 2021

The Euro 2020 knockout stages are up and running! Already, Wales’ adventure has come to an end after a comprehensive 4-0 defeat to Denmark, while Italy did not have things all their own way against Austria at Wembley. Roberto Mancini’s side needed two extra time goals to seal their place in the quarter finals. Sky Sports’ News reporter Geraint Hughes and Sky Sports features editor Peter Smith join Kate Burlaga to look back at the opening last-16 ties…
PART 1 | (1:18) Sky Sports News report Geraint Hughes reflects on Wales’ chastening defeat at the hands of Italy. Where did it go wrong for Rob Page’s side in Amsterdam? He also gives his verdict on Wales’ tournament and what the future may hold for the team and Gareth Bale as they look to qualify for 2022 World Cup.
PART 2 | (20:06) Italy took over Wembley on Saturday evening and Sky Sports’ Peter Smith was there to see Roberto Mancini’s side’s book their quarter final spot. However, it wasn’t as plain sailing as many people predicted. We discuss the game and Italy’s prospects going forward as they await a huge showdown with wither Belgium or Portugal in the last eight in Munich on Friday. Finally, the countdown is on for England vs Germany on Tuesday. We look at what is coming up across Sky Sports’ digital platforms as we build up to the huge Wembley clash!

England and Germany set for Wembley showdown | Jamie Redknapp & Sky Germany's Uli Kohler on last-16 clash Jun 25, 2021

Rivalries in international football don’t get any bigger than England versus Germany. With the two nations set for a collision course in the last-16 of Euro 2020, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp and Uli Kohler joined Peter Smith to analyse both camps ahead of Tuesday’s showdown at Wembley.
PART 1 | Jamie Redknapp, a member of the England squad dumped out of Euro 96 by Germany, assesses the Three Lions’ performances in the group stages of Euro 2020 and explains why Gareth Southgate’s talented squad have nothing to fear against the Germans.
PART 2 | The prospect of facing England at Wembley is one every Germany player will relish irrespective of an inconsistent group stage, according to Sky Germany reporter Uli Kohler, who talks tactics, Jamal Musiala, Jadon Sancho and the dreaded prospect of penalties with Peter in part two.

The hits and misses of Euro 2020 so far | Most exciting player on show? | The last-16 ties previewed Jun 24, 2021

Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports football writers Ron Walker and Charlotte Marsh and Sky Sports Data Editor Adam Smith to pick out the teams and players who impressed during the group phase and the ones which have to step out in the knockouts – if they’ve not already gone home!
The panel also looks ahead to the last-16 ties, the key match-ups which could decide the eventual winner of the tournament, and explain why – with much nervousness and trepidation – England have a good chance of knocking out Germany…

Explained: Why Southgate is cautious | Is Grealish now a starter? | Foundations for future Scotland success? Jun 23, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by Rob Dorsett and Pete Smith to discuss England's 1-0 win over Czech Republic at Wembley to finish top of Group D at Euro 2020. Jack Grealish finally gets a start for England - is he now here to stay? Why IS Gareth Southgate so cautious with the Three Lions? Plus: praise for Bukayo Saka and Raheem Sterling.
The panel also cover all England positions and talking points going into the last 16, and discuss how Southgate will approach the knockout stages.
And after Scotland's 3-1 defeat by Croatia at Hampden Park, Sky Sports News' Charles Paterson joins us to look back their campaign, and whether the foundations are in place for more success in the future.

Wales dreaming again after reaching last-16 | The view from Italy and Germany | Group D finale: England and Scotland previews Jun 21, 2021

Wales are dreaming again! (2:47) Jasper Taylor is joined by Ben Ransom and Geraint Hughes to discuss Rob Page’s side, who reached the last-16 at Euro 2020 despite a 1-0 defeat to Italy in Rome. With Finland, Russia or Denmark waiting in the next round, how far can the Welsh go at the tournament (10:35)?
Then we get the view from Italy (16:15) with Sky Italy’s Valentina Fass giving her thoughts on Roberto Mancini’s side’s impressive start to the tournament before Sky Germany’s Uli Kohler discusses Germany’s scintillating victory over defending champions Portugal and a potential last-16 clash with England (17:11).
Finally, Sky Sports features editor Peter Smith joins Jasper and Ben to look ahead to judgement night in Group D (28:02). Will England and Scotland join Wales in the knockout stages? The panel preview Tuesday night’s games: England vs Czech Republic and Scotland vs Croatia.

Scottish night to savour at Wembley | What’s wrong with Harry Kane? | Wales reaction and Italy preview Jun 19, 2021

Twenty five years on from their last tournament meeting, Scotland spring an upset of sorts with an encouraging 0-0 draw against England that keeps their Euro 2020 hopes alive. Alice Piper is joined by Luke Shanley, Jess Creighton and Peter Smith to examine exactly where Scotland got it right, before conducting the inquest into England’s toothless display.
| PART 1: A Wembley performance for Scotland to savour as Steve Clarke’s selection earns alibis from supporters and lays the foundation for Tuesday’s “must-win” showdown with Croatia.
What’s gone wrong with Harry Kane? (13:59) Will Gareth Southgate drop his captain against the Czech Republic? Is it time for Jack Grealish?
| PART 2: Sky Sports News reporter Geraint Hughes joins Alice (35:51) to reflect on Wales’ triumph over Turkey in Baku before looking ahead to Sunday's final group game against Italy in Rome.

'Adams was tackling the brick wall!' The Boys of 96: England stars on Seaman’s save, Gazza’s goal & that celebration vs Scotland Jun 15, 2021

Mark McAdam has got the boys back together. The reporter has tracked down England’s stars of Euro 96 – and, ahead of England vs Scotland at Euro 2020, they tell us the inside story of the famous clash between the two teams at Wembley 25 years ago.
Gary Neville, Jamie Redknapp, Gareth Southgate, Teddy Sheringham, Paul Ince and Stuart Pearce lift the lid on what it was like inside the England dressing room before that dramatic match, the key turning points in the contest, and how the victory ultimately propelled England to the semi-finals.
For more behind the scenes stories of England’s adventures at Euro 96, you can watch The Boys of 96 on Sky Sports News and the Sky Sports YouTube channel.

What went wrong for Scotland - and what do they need to do to bounce back against England at Wembley? Jun 14, 2021

After a 23-year wait, Scotland’s first match back at a major international tournament ended in defeat, with Steve Clarke’s side going down 2-0 to Czech Republic at Hampden Park.
We get reaction to the result and performance from former Scotland international James McFadden and Famous Tartan Army Magazine editor Iain Emerson, who joined Sky Sports News reporter Charles Paterson after the game for the latest Sky Sports Football Euros Podcast.
There’s debate and discussion about the chances which came and went for Scotland, the mistakes at the back, the impact of “world class” Kieran Tierney’s injury – and whether Scotland can bounce back in the mouth-watering match-up with England at Wembley on Friday.
And finally… was Patrik Schick’s halfway-line strike better than Zinedine Zidane’s volley at the same stadium? Or McFadden’s goal in Paris?!

Southgate calls it right! Sterling and Phillips star in England win | Scotland-Czech preview | Wales-Switzerland recap Jun 13, 2021

Gareth Southgate knows his England side best... who would have thought it?! Kate Burlaga is joined by Pete Smith, Jess Creighton and Gerard Brand to discuss England's victory over Croatia in their Euro 2020 opener at Wembley, as Raheem Sterling answers his critics with the only goal.
The panel discuss Southgate's surprise selections and controlling performance, and look ahead to England's next Group D game against Scotland on Friday. We also preview the Scots' first major tournament game in 23 years as they face Czech Republic on Monday.
Geraint Hughes also joins us to review Wales' hard-fought 1-1 draw in Switzerland in Group A on Saturday, all on a weekend where football was put firmly into perspective after Christian Eriksen's cardiac arrest in Copenhagen. Get well soon, Christian.

Foden & Grealish on the bench?! The big England XI debate - Plus: SkySports.com's readers' XI revealed Jun 11, 2021

Jasper Taylor is joined by Rob Dorsett, Nick Wright and Gerard Brand for a definitive debate on the biggest England talking point ahead of their Euro 2020 opener against Croatia on Sunday: who will start at Wembley?
In part one, Rob brings us all the latest insight from St George's Park, while the panel run through the formation and defence
In part two (22:31), it's all about the midfield and forward line. Is there a chance Rashford and Sterling start over Foden and Grealish? And should England look to play two defensive midfielders in the knockout stages?
And in part three (42:27), the SkySports.com readers' XI is revealed, and both Nick and Gerard pick their surprise impact player from England's squad.

Gary Neville on England’s chances, why France are favourites, and how Euro 2020 can lift the nation Jun 08, 2021

Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville (5:07) joins Peter Smith on the Sky Sports Football Euros Podcast to build up to the big Euro 2020 kick-off. Neville has his say on England’s strengths and weaknesses, what they’ll need to do to beat favourites France to the title, and how this talented young group of England players can raise the spirits of the entire nation.
During the podcast, we also get the lowdown on how Scotland and Wales (22:54) are shaping up from the Sky Sports News reporters following their campaigns, Charles Paterson and Geraint Hughes. Plus Valentina Fass from Sky Italy and Uli Kohler from Sky Germany (56:39) give us the view from the continent on how their own nations are looking.
Sky Sports deputy football editor Kate Burlaga and football writer Ben Grounds will also be sharing their top tips for the tournament, including who will be lifting the trophy on July 11 – and which players will light up the tournament (1:09:35).

Introducing... The Sky Sports Football Euros Podcast Jun 07, 2021

We're changing our name for the Euros! We'll be bringing you five episodes a week throughout Euro 2020, with expert analysis on England, Scotland and Wales, plus the best from around the continent.

A year like no other... bumper review of the 2020/21 Premier League season May 24, 2021

In the final Pitch to Post Review show of the season, Jasper Taylor is joined by Ben Ransom, Nick Wright and Gerard Brand to look back on an historic year of Premier League football.
| PART ONE - Man City bow out in style | North London clubs battle for little other than bragging rights | Chelsea's season of two halves
| PART TWO - What do Man Utd need to mount a proper challenge? | How on earth did Liverpool finish third?! | West Ham's fantastic achievement | Leicester fall short again
| PART THREE - Awards section: Team of the season | Game of the season | Moment of the season | Next year's surprise package

Pitch to Post Preview – The Premier League final day race for European football assessed May 20, 2021

In the final Pitch to Post Preview Podcast of the Premier League season we look ahead to the final day and debate which sides will come out on top in the race for European football.
From the three-way battle for two top-four places and Champions League football between Chelsea, Liverpool and Leicester, to West Ham, Tottenham and Everton vying for a Europa League place, and Arsenal’s chances of a Europa Conference League appearance, Sky Sports’ Nick Wright and Oli Yew join Peter Smith to assess the various permutations - and make their predictions!
The panel also reflect on another Premier League title win for Pep Guardiola's Manchester City as they prepare to lift the trophy in front of their own fans on Sunday.

Pitch to Post Review: What does the future hold for Harry Kane? | The race for Europe continues | Chelsea Women's CL final defeat May 18, 2021

Jasper Taylor is joined by Dharmesh Sheth, Adam Bate and Charlotte Marsh to discuss what the future holds for Harry Kane and Tottenham; the state of play in the Premier League as we reach the business end of the race for Europe; and the fallout from Chelsea Women’s Champions League final defeat to Barcelona.
| PART ONE: Harry Kane wants to leave Tottenham. Which club is the best fit? Will Spurs sell?
| PART TWO: Alisson wonderland as the Liverpool goalkeeper’s dramatic stoppage-time winner ignites top-four challenge, plus the view from the blue half of Merseyside where Everton lose again at Goodison.
| PART THREE: Chelsea Women’s chastening defeat in the Champions League final shows progress is still to be made by Emma Hayes’ side but this season remains one of positives.

Pitch to Post Review – Reaction and analysis after Leicester's FA Cup Final win over Chelsea May 15, 2021

Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports Football Features Editor Peter Smith from Wembley and Sky Sports Football Writer Jack Wilkinson to reflect on a historic FA Cup final win for Leicester City over Chelsea, thanks to Youri Tielemans’ stunning goal.
The trio discuss the twists and turns of a memorable final, the return of 21,000 fans to Wembley, and what the result means for both managers and both clubs ahead of a key top-four race Premier League clash between them on Tuesday night.

Pitch to Post Preview - FA Cup Final special: Will Chelsea or Leicester lift the trophy? May 13, 2021

In a special episode of the Pitch to Post Preview Podcast we look ahead to this Saturday's FA Cup Final at Wembley, where Chelsea and Leicester will battle for the trophy in front of over 20,000 fans.
Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports News reporter Paul Gilmour and Sky Sports football writer Ron Walker to assess both sides on the back of their midweek results, the key areas which will decide the contest, and how the game will play out.
They also discuss what impact FA Cup glory would have on Brendan Rodgers' managerial career, the importance of Jonny Evans at the heart of the Leicester defence, and why former Foxes star N'Golo Kante could be the decisive player on the pitch this weekend for Chelsea.

Premier League Review: Have Leicester blown it again? Will Liverpool sneak into top four? Plus: Why Greenwood should go to Euros May 10, 2021

Jasper Taylor is joined by Ben Ransom, Dharmesh Sheth and Gerard Brand as the panel look back on a busy weekend of Premier League action and assess the outside contenders for Gareth Southgate's England squad.
| PART ONE: Good week for... Chelsea, Liverpool and Everton in top-four race (04:27)
| PART TWO: Bad week for... West Ham, Leicester and Tottenham (28:24)
| PART THREE: Why Greenwood should be in England squad | Panel pick their outside bet for Southgate's 26-man squad (46:40)

Premier League Preview: Jamie Redknapp on Man City vs Chelsea; Plus: what next for Arsenal, Man Utd after EL ties, and the top four race May 06, 2021

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp joins Peter Smith to discuss Manchester City and Chelsea reaching the Champions League final ahead of their clash at the Etihad this weekend. He also picks out some standout performers from both sides, explaining how Ruben Dias has transformed City, and praising the rise of Phil Foden and Mason Mount.
Sky Sports football writers Oli Yew and Ben Grounds are also on the show to discuss Arsenal’s Europa League exit and Man Utd’s progress to the final – and what comes next for both sides, with Mikel Arteta under pressure and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side looking to kick on.
Ben also assesses the top four race, with some key fixtures coming up, and makes his Pitch for what he thinks will happen in the Premier League this weekend!

Premier League Review: Will protests force Glazers out of Man Utd? How will the English sides fare in Europe? May 03, 2021

Sky Sports News’ North West reporter James Cooper joins Jasper Taylor to look back on the unprecedented protests which saw fans force their way into Old Trafford, onto the pitch and led to the postponement of the biggest game in English football – Manchester United vs Liverpool.
Cooper offers his eye-witness account of how events unfolded and assesses the impact they will have on the Glazer family’s ownership after 16 fractious years in control of the club.
Sky Sports News’ Manchester City correspondent Ben Ransom analyses how United’s cross-city rivals have enjoyed a more fruitful relationship with the club’s owners and, with the help of Sky Sports features writer Adam Bate, looks ahead to a pivotal week in Europe where City and Chelsea bid to reach the Champions League final, before United and Arsenal hope to follow in their footsteps and reach the Europa League showpiece.
PART 1 – Protests at Old Trafford cause Man Utd vs Liverpool to be postponed | James Cooper’s account | What next for the Glazers at Man Utd?
PART 2 – What’s the feeling towards the Man City owners? | What have they done differently? | Will the Glazers sell Man Utd?
PART 3 – Champions League and Europa League preview | How will Man City, Chelsea, Man Utd and Arsenal fare? | Who will a trophy mean more too?

Premier League Preview: Jamie Carragher on Man Utd vs Liverpool; Plus: Chelsea’s striker problems and Arsenal’s issues on and off the field Apr 30, 2021

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher joins Peter Smith to look ahead to Manchester United’s Super Sunday clash with Liverpool. He assesses United’s big Europa League semi-final win over Roma and where Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side need to strengthen if they are to be Premier League challengers next season. Plus, he gives his verdict on Liverpool’s top four hopes – and how they can come out on top in their must-win trip to Old Trafford.
Sky Sports features writer Nick Wright is also on the show, discussing Chelsea’s misfiring strikers ahead of their clash with Fulham, and also offering his insight on Arsenal’s Europa League semi-final defeat to Villarreal, what needs to change before next week’s second leg, and the wider ownership debate which has led to fan protests. He also shares his Pitch for what he thinks will happen in the Premier League this weekend!

Carabao Cup Review: Who fits the bill for Spurs? Will Pep Guardiola become the greatest manager of all time? Apr 26, 2021

Jasper Taylor is joined by Ben Ransom, Charlotte Marsh and Gerard Brand to discuss the weekend's footballing action.
PART 1 - Man City beat Spurs in Carabao Cup final | Will Pep Guardiola be the greatest manager ever? | Who should be Spurs' next manager? | Will Harry Kane stay?
PART 2 - The top-four race | Who has the easiest run-in?
PART 3 - Too little too late for West Brom | A week of protests force change | Hall of Fame predictions

Preview: Jamie Redknapp's Carabao Cup Final verdict Apr 23, 2021

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp joins Peter Smith to look ahead to Manchester City vs Tottenham in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday. Will it be a fairytale final for Ryan Mason after he was made interim Spurs boss after Jose Mourinho's sacking? Or will City make it four League Cup wins in a row?
Redknapp assesses all the aspects of the clash, and has his say on the clubs' roles in the Super League, Mourinho's future, and much more...

Special: Fans 1-0 Not-so-Super League Apr 21, 2021

High-powered, heavily-funded and years in the making, it lasted barely two days. In a podcast special, Jasper Taylor is joined by Gerard Brand and Ron Walker to discuss the rapid break-up of the breakaway European Super League. The panel discuss why football is more than just a business or entertainment sport, how this was a fan victory we should celebrate and what the future holds for football. We also hear from Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher, Kaveh Solhekol and Bryan Swanson on another monumental 48 hours.

Special: European Super League - What does it mean? What's the reaction? What are the ramifications? Apr 19, 2021

In a special podcast, Jasper Taylor sums up a seismic 24 hours in football after Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham agreed to join a breakaway European Super League, along with six other European teams. The reaction has been swift, damning, passionate and emotional to say the least. Hear from Gary Neville, Kaveh Solhekol, Bryan Swanson and more....

Preview: Everton vs Tottenham focus - is Spurs' PL position about right? | West Ham's top-four chances | Arsenal & Man Utd's Europa progress Apr 15, 2021

In the latest Pitch to Post Preview show, Kate Burlaga is joined by Ben Grounds, Adam Bate and Kaveh Solhekol to preview the weekend’s football action.
| PART 1 – Everton vs Tottenham preview – top-four chances assessed | Is Spurs’ Premier League position actually about right?
| PART 2 – West Ham looking for unprecedented top-four finish | Is Moyes manager of the year? | What is Jesse Lingard’s future? (15:48)
| PART 3 – Arsenal and Man Utd’s Europa League chances after QF progression | Ben and Adam’s Pitches ahead of weekend action (31:09)

Premier League Review: Harry Kane's future - What? When? Where? Why? How? | Top-four race blown wide open | Man Utd's fruitful 2021 Apr 12, 2021

Jasper Taylor is joined by Dharmesh Sheth, Gerard Brand and Paul Gilmour to discuss an eventful weekend on and off the pitch in the Premier League
| PART 1: Top-four race blown wide open | Deja vu for Leicester? | Where would a West Ham top-four place rank? | Do Chelsea have the second-best squad in PL? | Liverpool back on track (03:33)
| PART 2: More answers than questions for Man Utd in 2021 | Why they need to keep Cavani | Have Spurs been soft for 40 years?! (18:40)
| PART 3: Harry Kane's Spurs future with Paul Gilmour - What? When? Where? Why? How? - The complete lowdown (30:19)
| PART 4: Newcastle grain ground on Fulham in relegation battle (46:19)

Premier League Preview: Tottenham vs Man Utd and a decisive month for Spurs; Inconsistent Liverpool, and West Ham vs Leicester's key clash Apr 09, 2021

Sky Sports features writer Nick Wright is also on the show, looking back at two contrasting performances from Liverpool and the reasons behind their inconsistency, as well as previewing a big top-four race clash between surprise package West Ham and Leicester. He also makes his Pitch for the weekend about an important game at the other end of the table between Burnley and Newcastle.

Premier League Review: Are Liverpool back? | Arteta's 50 games assessed | Blip for Tuchel? | Relegation fight focus | England winners/losers Apr 05, 2021

Jasper Taylor is joined by Roger Clarke and Gerard Brand to discuss another eventful weekend in the Premier League.
| PART 1: Are Liverpool back? | Trent and Fabinho praise | Arteta's 50 PL games assessed | Is Aubameyang being wasted? (06:36)
| PART 2: Just a freak result for Chelsea? | Werner continues to struggle | WBA's faint survival hopes (25:46)
| PART 3: Newcastle gain a point on Fulham - will Bruce get any credit? | Relegation predictions (39:17)
| PART 4: England squad winners and losers from weekend action (47:31)

Premier League Preview: Jamie Redknapp on Arsenal vs Liverpool; Plus how do Man City replace Aguero? And crunch time for Newcastle Apr 02, 2021

In this week’s Pitch to Post Preview Podcast Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp joins Peter Smith to look ahead to Saturday’s big clash between Arsenal and Liverpool. Could Jurgen Klopp’s side turn a frustrating season into a glorious one with a late top-four push and Champions League charge? Redknapp assesses their chances – and explains where they will have to strengthen in this summer’s transfer window.
We also hear from Sky Sports News’ Man City reporter Ben Ransom on life after Sergio Aguero at the Etihad Stadium and who Pep Guardiola and his recruitment team will target to replace the iconic Argentina ace.
Plus Sky Sports features writer Adam Bate examines Newcastle’s clash with Tottenham – two teams with lots still to play for during this run-in, and two managers who need a strong finish to the campaign.

Premier League Review: Will Kane beat Shearer's record? | Newcastle redefine rock bottom | What's progress for Man Utd? | West Ham-Arsenal Mar 22, 2021

In the latest Pitch to Post Review show, Jasper Taylor is joined by SkySports.com's Gerard Brand and Ron Walker to discuss the weekend's action
| PART 1: West Ham 3-3 Arsenal assessed | Lingard praise: Should he stay at West Ham? | Why Arsenal need to sign Odegaard
| PART 2: Newcastle's woes continue | Has Bruce lost the players? | How detrimental would relegation be? | Relegation predictions (19:18)
| PART 3: Michael Bridge on Tottenham | A good end to a bad week | Will Kane stay and beat Shearer's record? | Is Jose actually under pressure? (30:45)
| PART 4: Leicester and Rodgers praise | Missed chance for Man Utd, but do trophies = signs of progress? (43:19)

Premier League Preview: Brighton vs Newcastle relegation six-pointer assessed. Plus: How will Spurs respond to their Europa League shocker? Mar 19, 2021

In this week’s Pitch to Post Preview Podcast Sky Sports News’ Elliot Cook and Keith Downie join Peter Smith to look ahead to a crucial clash in the battle against relegation, which sees Brighton host Newcastle on Saturday night. From analysis of what’s gone wrong this season, to tactics for this clash, and what defeat would mean for both managers, we have the ultimate lowdown on this pivotal game.
We also have the latest on Arsenal following their progress to the quarter-finals of the Europa League, and ask Sky Sports football journalist Ron Walker whether West Ham can topple their London rivals.
Plus, Sky Sports football journalist Charlotte Marsh reacts to Tottenham’s disastrous defeat to Dinamo Zagreb and discusses whether Jose Mourinho’s side can salvage their season domestically, starting with a tricky trip to Aston Villa.

Premier League Review: Spurs' negative NLD approach assessed | Is top four now fixed? | What next for Sheff Utd and Wilder? Mar 16, 2021

In the latest Pitch to Post Review show, Jasper Taylor is joined by Sky Sports News reporter Roger Clarke and SkySports.com senior football journalist Gerard Brand to discuss the weekend's action.
| PART 1: North London derby | Lamela's Rabona | Why were Spurs so negative? | Arteta's ruthless Aubameyang call | Smith Rowe for Euro 2020 squad? (01:34)
| PART 2: Is the top four fixed in place? | What on earth is the Europa Conference League? | Can a side finishing fourth not make CL? (22:28)
| PART 3: Tim Thornton on Sheffield United | Why did Chris Wilder leave? | What next for the Blades? | What are Wilder's prospects? (39:00)
| PART 4: Performance, performer and goal of the weekend | Jasper's teaser answer (51:10)

Premier League Preview: North London derby build up; Plus Diallo’s instant impact, and how do Everton become a top four side? Mar 12, 2021

On this week’s Pitch to Post Preview Podcast we turn our attention to Arsenal vs Tottenham, as the north London rivals prepare to face off at the Emirates. Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports football journalists Ben Grounds and Ron Walker to assess the big match. The panel reflect on positive Europa League wins for both sides, consider the potential team selection issues, and which team needs the win more.
We also hear the latest from Sky Sports News reporter Alan Myers on Everton’s push for the Champions League spots, ahead of their tricky test against Burnley, while Ron returns to assess Amad Diallo’s fine first goal for Manchester United and the challenge they face on Sunday against an in-form West Ham, who also have ambitions for the top four.

Counting The Cost: COVID’s impact on football’s finances Mar 11, 2021

The financial cost of the past 12 months on football has been huge - and the scale of the damage, and the way it could affect how clubs are run in the future, is yet to be seen. As part of a special Sky Sports series exploring the impact of coronavirus on football we examine the impact of a year without fans and the way it will affect how clubs operate in the future - from season tickets to transfers.

Behind Closed Doors: Football’s style shift without fans Mar 10, 2021

As part of a special Sky Sports series exploring the impact of coronavirus on football, we have examined the impact of the past year without supporters on the way the game is played.
During this podcast we’ll be sharing some of the data which illustrates the shift, and we’ll also be hearing from players and managers about their experiences in this challenging environment. Plus, we’ll be exploring some of the reasons why some teams have been able to adapt to the situation more successfully than others.

Premier League Review: Man City Quadruple a step too far? Bale's Spurs future, Liverpool crisis Mar 08, 2021

Jasper Taylor is joined by Ben Ransom and Dharmesh Sheth to discuss the latest round of Premier League fixtures as Manchester United ended Manchester City's 21-game unbeaten run on Super Sunday. After a third straight win at the Etihad, what is it about this fixture that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer loves? And what are City's chances of an unprecedented Quadruple? After a sixth straight home defeat for Liverpool, beaten by Fulham on Sunday, we ask: could their form do irreparable damage? And there's praise for a huge statement victory for Scott Parker's side (19:53). In part three, Sky Sports News' Paul Gilmour talks all things Spurs in the Regional Review (36:34) - is Gareth Bale playing for his future at the club? And is Harry Kane the best striker in the world? And in part four, we get Dharmesh and Ben's performances of the week, including some praise for Luke Shaw (49:13).

Premier League Preview: Build-up to the Manchester derby, a look ahead to Aston Villa vs Wolves and analysis on Spurs recent upturn in form Mar 05, 2021

In this week’s Pitch to Post preview podcast Alice Piper is joined by Sky Sports News reporters Ben Ransom and James Cooper to look ahead to the Manchester derby. Can City end United's 21-game unbeaten away run to stretch their Premier League lead to 17 points?
We also hear from Rob Dorsett ahead of the Midlands derby between Aston Villa and Wolves, with both sides looking to return to winning ways.
And Michael Bridge gives us his verdict on Tottenham's recent resurgence, as they prepare to welcome Crystal Palace.

Premier League Review: Who leads the race for Erling Haaland? Are Man Utd too-risk averse? Plus: Relegation battle assessed Mar 01, 2021

After another goalless draw with a big rival, is it time to question Manchester United's risk-averse ways? Or will this season be deemed a success for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side? Jasper Taylor is joined by Dharmesh Sheth and Gerard Brand to discuss the weekend's action in the Premier League in the latest Pitch to Post Review show. With rumours surrounding Erling Haaland's future in the newspapers again last week, we take an in-depth look at the finances involved and the potential suitors if the Borussia Dortmund forward was to move to the Premier League this summer (24:30). We also assess the relegation battle in the Premier League - are we seeing a four-team fight emerge? (42:40) - and we get Dharmesh and Gerard's performances of the week (50:02).

Premier League Preview: Jamie Redknapp's Liverpool verdict. Plus: Chelsea vs Man Utd build-up, and Tottenham’s tricky Burnley test Feb 26, 2021

On this week’s Pitch to Post Preview Podcast, Jamie Redknapp joins Peter Smith to assess where Liverpool stand right now. The Sky Sports pundit explains why he thinks it would be a surprise if they make the top four and the reasons why he expects them to get back to their top level next season. We also hear from Sky Sports football writer Jack Wilkinson, who assesses Chelsea’s start under Thomas Tuchel, Man Utd’s talk of the title, and gives his verdict on why the next couple of months could be key for the future of Jose Mourinho and Tottenham. Plus he shares his Pitch for the weekend!

Premier League Review: Do Man City really need Lionel Messi? | Does a trophy-less Jose get another year? | Everton joy, Newcastle fears Feb 23, 2021

Jasper Taylor is joined by Ben Grounds and Nick Wright to discuss a first Merseyside derby win for Everton at Anfield since 1999 as Carlo Ancelotti's side march on, while Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool suffer a fourth straight defeat. Which side will finish in the top four? We also discuss the likelihood of Lionel Messi moving to Manchester City in the summer and ask: do the Premier League leaders really need him? Sky Sports News' Keith Downie joins the show to talk all things Newcastle - will Mike Ashley sack Steve Bruce if the Toon enter the bottom three? And in part four, we discuss West Ham's win over Tottenham on Sunday, mapping the Hammers' progress, and asking: if Jose Mourinho fails to win a trophy or finish in the top four this season, does he get another year?

Premier League Preview: Graeme Souness assesses Liverpool's form ahead of the Merseyside derby, and can anyone beat Man City right now? Feb 19, 2021

In this week’s Pitch to Post Preview Podcast Alice Piper is joined by Graeme Souness to look ahead to this weekend's Merseyside derby, as Liverpool aim to avoid a fourth Premier League defeat in a row. We also hear from Sky Sports football journalist Oliver Yew on Arsenal, who face the difficult task of taking on Manchester City after the league leaders set yet another record with their midweek win over Everton. Plus, Sky Sports News reporter Rob Dorsett gives us his verdict on Harvey Barnes' remarkable development at Leicester ahead of their Super Sunday trip to Aston Villa.

Premier League Review: Should Harry Kane leave Tottenham? | What does Arsenal's future attack look like? Man Utd's defence analysed Feb 16, 2021

In the latest Pitch to Post Review show, Jasper Taylor is joined by Roger Clarke, Gerard Brand and Paul Gilmour to discuss the weekend action in the Premier League. After Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang returned to form with a hat-trick in Arsenal's 4-2 win over Leeds, we assess the Gunners' front line going forward, with several moving parts involving Lacazette, Martinelli, Nketiah, Balogun and more.
We assess Manchester United's defensive line after their 1-1 draw with West Brom on Sunday, and ask: did they get an £80m defender in Harry Maguire? And does he have the right partner? In the Regional Review, Paul Gilmour discusses the Gareth Bale situation, and we also assess the likelihood of Harry Kane leaving Tottenham in the future as he approaches his peak years. We also get the panelists' predicted top four for the season. And in part four, we look at Fulham's chances of survival, and get the performances of the week.

Premier League Preview: Guardiola v Mourinho, Arsenal’s dip and development, and how far away are Man Utd? Feb 12, 2021

In this week’s Pitch to Post Preview Podcast Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports News reporter Paul Gilmour and Sky Sports feature writer Nick Wright to look ahead to Saturday’s clash between Pep Guardiola’s Man City and Jose Mourinho’s Tottenham, with the league leaders’ imperious form and Gareth Bale’s continued absence from the Spurs XI on the agenda.
We also hear from Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith on Arsenal’s inconsistency, how Mikel Arteta is building for a better campaign next season, and whether Leeds striker Patrick Bamford can make it into England’s squad for the Euros.
Plus, Nick Wright delivers his verdict on why Manchester United should be ready for a title tilt, Sam Allardyce’s struggles to turn things around at West Brom, and shares his Pitch for what will happen in the Premier League this weekend.

Premier League Review: Liverpool not blameless for bad luck | Man Utd's summer transfer priorities | What has Tuchel changed at Chelsea? Feb 08, 2021

Alisson may have had cold feet in the 4-1 defeat by Manchester City on Super Sunday, but are Liverpool's excuses running thin? And has their decision-making off the pitch been poor this season? Jasper Taylor is joined by Gerard Brand and Ben Ransom to talk through the latest round of Premier League fixtures, as Manchester City put one hand on the trophy with a thumping win at Anfield (05:08). Would this be Pep Guardiola's best title? After Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea won for the third straight game, we asses how the German has changed the side's structure, as well as some praise for the underrated Mason Mount (25:15). In the Regional Review, James Cooper joins us to talk all things Manchester United (36:00): Is there any danger of David de Gea being dropped? And are they still targetting an attacker in the summer? And in part four, we look back on a nightmare week for Southampton, who conceded 12 goals in two games (49:04).

Premier League Preview: Liverpool v Man City special: Jamie Carragher’s verdict, team news & line-ups, and the standout stats Feb 04, 2021

In this week’s Pitch to Post Preview Podcast Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher joins Peter Smith for an in-depth look at Sunday’s big clash between Liverpool and Man City. Carragher gives his verdict on whether Liverpool can recover in the title race after their defeat to Brighton – and what they will have to do to beat Man City in their must-win match at Anfield.

Review: Is Dias signing of the year? | Why are Man Utd so shy in big games? | Liverpool, Spurs' contrasting week | Finally, Newcastle praise Feb 01, 2021

There’s no such thing as January blues at Manchester City as Pep Guardiola's side win nine out of nine, helped by the wall that is Ruben Dias. Has his impact been bigger than Virgil van Dijk's at Liverpool? In the latest Pitch to Post Review show, Jasper Taylor is joined by Kate Burlaga and Gerard Brand to discuss just that, as well as another goalless draw for Manchester United against a so-called big six side (20:05). Is their title tilt over before it began? And what is success for Arsenal this season? In part three we focus on Newcastle after their shock 2-0 win at Everton (33:39), masterminded by Graeme, sorry, Steve, erm... well, we figure out exactly who deserves the credit. And in part four we look back on a good week for Liverpool and a bad week for Jose Mourinho’s Spurs (43:51), plus the performers, performances and goals of the week.

Preview: Arsenal v Man Utd build-up, plus: Man City’s title charge, Liverpool’s return to form, and problems for Tottenham Jan 29, 2021

In this week’s Pitch to Post Preview Podcast Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp joins Peter Smith to look ahead to Arsenal’s big Saturday night clash with Manchester United, and gives his verdict on Emile Smith Rowe, Martin Odegaard – and why Man Utd slipped up against Sheffield United.
We also get the inside story on Man City’s title pursuit from Sky Sports News reporter Ben Ransom, who explains how one City star has been transformed by Pep Guardiola’s methods this season.
And Sky Sports feature writer Adam Bate reflects on Liverpool’s much-needed win at Tottenham – and the injuries sustained which could impact both sides. Plus he makes his Pitch for what will happen in the next round of Premier League games…

Review: Lampard sacked - what went wrong? | All 20 Premier League teams assessed in half-term report Jan 25, 2021

In a bumper Review show, the panel recover from spitting out their coffee on Monday morning to react to the news that Frank Lampard has lost his job as Chelsea manager. Where did it go wrong for Lampard? Did he lack experience? And what would replacement Thomas Tuchel bring? Jasper Taylor is joined by Roger Clarke, Gerard Brand and Mark McAdam for the latest Pitch to Post review, as we analyse all 20 Premier League clubs in the half-term review. In possibly the most bizarre Premier League season in history, which has seen eight different leaders, we cover every team from the rise of Ole’s United to the fall of Wilder’s.
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Part one: Lampard reaction, Chelsea's season assessed (01:51) -- Part two: Man Utd, Liverpool, Leicester, Everton, West Ham and Aston Villa (18:24) -- Part three: Tottenham, Leeds, Crystal Palace, Wolves and Newcastle (36:11) -- Part four: Southampton and Brighton with south coast reporter Mark McAdam (49:55) -- Part five: Man City, Arsenal, Burnley, Fulham, West Brom and Sheff Utd (59:51)

Review: Man City's 'win' at Anfield | Are people too hard on Leeds? | Wolves' dip assessed | Plus: Do Liverpool need a No 9? Jan 18, 2021

In the latest Pitch to Post Review show Jasper Taylor is joined by Gerard Brand and Ben Ransom to discuss Manchester City's win at Anfield, ahem, sorry, Liverpool's goalless draw with Manchester United at Anfield (01:54), which only had the team 30 miles away at the Etihad Stadium truly celebrating. Why are Liverpool misfiring? And are City rightly favourites for the title now? In part two we focus on Leeds after their third straight defeat (22:29), but are we too hard on Marcelo Bielsa's side? We're also joined by Adam Bate to discuss all things Midlands football, with a focus on Wolves' dip in form (35:48), and in part four we answer your Twitter questions (45:51), including: Why no offside flags? And should Liverpool be after an out-and-out striker?

Preview: Liverpool v Man Utd: Graeme Souness’ big match verdict; plus: the likely XIs, injury news, and predictions Jan 14, 2021

In a special Pitch to Post Preview Podcast we look ahead to Sunday’s blockbuster between Liverpool and Man Utd at Anfield. Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness joins Peter Smith to discuss the big match, including why the hosts will be wary of their rivals and which players must stand up and deliver for their side. We also get the latest team news and possible starting XIs from Sky Sports News reporters James Cooper and Vinny O’Connor, while football writer Lewis Jones – AKA Jones Knows – makes his Pitch for what will happen in the game.

Preview: Are Man Utd title contenders? Plus: The secret to Arsenal’s turnaround, and the impact of coronavirus at Aston Villa Jan 13, 2021

This week on the Pitch to Post Preview Podcast we look ahead to the midweek Premier League games. Peter Smith is joined by Sky Sports News reporter James Cooper to discuss Man Utd’s title credentials, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side aiming to go clear at the top on Tuesday. Sky Sports football journalist Oliver Yew lifts the lid on Arsenal’s turnaround and makes his bold Pitch for Sheff Utd vs Newcastle. Plus, Sky Sports News reporter Rob Dorsett has the latest on the impact coronavirus is having at Aston Villa, following the postponement of their game with Tottenham, tells the story of Louie Barry, and discusses Wolves vs Everton.

Review: What's behind Liverpool's blip & Arsenal's recovery? | Will Lampard get time? | Winter winners & losers Jan 13, 2021

It's a New Year, it’s a new lockdown, but it’s the same entertaining, unpredictable, bizarre season. Jasper Taylor is joined by Nick Wright and Gerard Brand to analyse the winter period in the Premier League, as Manchester City brought themselves firmly into title reckoning with a statement victory at Chelsea, leaving Frank Lampard under pressure at Stamford Bridge (04:01). Arsenal have gone from crisis to relative calm after their young players helped them to three wins in a (Smith) Rowe, easing Mikel Arteta's concerns of facing the Saka (17:13). In the Regional Review, SSN reporter Vinny O'Connor talks all things Liverpool, as an underwhelming 10 days leaves them level on points with Man Utd at the top of the table, with their bitter rivals up next in the Premier League (31:36). Do they have a new defender up their sleeves for January? And in part four, Nick and Gerard run through their winners and losers over the Christmas and New Year period (47:53).

Review: What if Man Utd actually clicked? Arteta's stats debunked, Leicester/Everton praise and overhyped Leeds? Jan 13, 2021

Manchester United are in contention having barely performed this season - how good could they be if they actually clicked? In the last Pitch to Post Review of 2020, Jasper Taylor is joined by Gerard Brand and Ben Ransom to discuss Manchester United's chaotic 6-2 win over Leeds, and whether in fact Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side are title contenders (04:12). As for Leeds, we analyse Marcelo Bielsa's unapologetic style, and whether it can last (13:00). The shambles at Arsenal continues as they are beaten at Everton, and after Mikel Arteta channels his inner Rafa Benitez with a list of statistics, the panel provide some other damning metrics (16:47). In the Regional Review, Adam Bate discusses West Brom, Aston Villa and Wolves (32:59), and in part four we look at Tottenham's defeat by Leicester as Jose Mourinho was played at his own game to cap off a bad week (42:36).

£1bn spent since Fergie: Man Utd's transfers assessed - the hits, the flops, the managers, the hierarchy Jan 13, 2021

In the 2020 summer transfer window, Manchester United surpassed £1bn spent on players since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. The honours they have to show for it? An FA Cup, a League Cup, and a Europa League. So why hasn’t money spent translated into success? On this Pitch to Post Podcast special, Jasper Taylor is joined by James Cooper, Gerard Brand and Jack Wilkinson to take an in-depth look at Manchester United AD - that’s After Dominance - and dissect their transfer business post Fergie. We go through the managers (06:05), Ed Woodward and the hierarchy (23:06), and ask: do United need a sporting director? We also look to the future, including what the club should do with Paul Pogba (35:52), and Jack and Gerard give their 5-4-3-2-1: five worst, four best, three that got away early, two past legends to rejoin and the one future signing in today's market (48:46).

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