The Sports Agents

SPECIAL REPORT: Newcastle United - the community's 'cathedral on the hill' Nov 21, 2024

Gabby travels to Newcastle to speak to Dan Burn (21:54), captain of the women's team, Amber-Keegan Stobbs (9:21), and club icon, Shola Ameobi (02:14). All three are involved in the Newcastle United Foundation, which helps almost 70,000 people across the North East each year.

Burn shares how he uses his time away from the pitch to help his local community. He talks about Eddie Howe and the England job, and how he might not have coped with the pressure of being a local hero if he'd started his senior career at Newcastle.

Ameobi tells us how the Foundation helped him go from a 5-year-old who arrived in Newcastle from Nigeria, unable to speak English, to a Premier League player with almost 400 appearances for the club.

Plus, Stobbs shares her mental health journey and talks about the rapid rise of the women's team, record crowds of almost 30,000 in the fourth tier, and back-to-back promotions into the Championship.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

This stadium ain't big enough for the both of us Nov 19, 2024

Big crowds filling big stadiums is the dream for most sports - and women's football did just that (well, at least the big stadiums bit) at the weekend. For the first time ever, all the games in the top two leagues of women’s football were hosted in main stadiums.

But, after Arsenal's recent fixture clash - is sharing stadiums feasible? If not, what's the long-term plan to grow attendances? And how does moving around impact the players and fans? We spoke to ex-England player Anita Asante and host of Counter Pressed podcast, Flo Lloyd-Hughes.

As England and Wales continue long losing runs in the rugby, Gabby and Mark ask, if Steve Borthwick and Warren Gatland were football managers would they have lasted this long?

And thieves steal a phone from Mo Farah - did they really think they could outrun him?!

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Nov 16, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

Donald Trump will be the President when the U.S. host the World Cup and the Olympics - what will that mean for global sport? We speak to The Telegraph’s Sport Investigations Reporter, Ben Rumsby, and Amnesty International’s Head of Sport and Labour Rights, Steve Cockburn.

With Mike Tyson back in the ring 19 years later facing YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul - are influencers killing boxing or throwing it a lifeline? We debate it out with Kalle Sauerland, Co-President of Misfits Boxing and Head of Boxing at Wasserman and The Guardian’s Chief Sports Reporter, Sean Ingle.

As cycling great Mark Cavendish retires, we find out about the man behind the lycra with his friend and ex-Team GB team mate Adam Blythe.

And how does Gabby think influencers should be punished when they take things a bit too far...?

Got a question for The Sports Agents - email us at thesportsagents@global.com

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

04:51 - Will Trump change global sport

11:25 - Are influencers killing or saving boxing?

16:01 - Mark Cavendish the mini Usain Bolt

21:34 - When influencers go too far...

Paul v Tyson: Are influencers killing boxing or saving it? Nov 14, 2024

As a 58-year-old Mike Tyson gets back in the ring - 19 years after his last professional fight - to take on young YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, are boxing purists right to be up in arms?

Could Paul become the 'new face of the sport' if he wins? Are influencers killing boxing or giving it a lifeline? And in a world where content is king, are these fights here to stay?

We discuss it all with The Guardian's Chief Sports Reporter, Sean Ingle, and Kalle Sauerland, who’s promoted over 30 world champions including Oleksandr Usyk, and is also the brains behind the influencer boxing company, Misfits Boxing (along with KSI).

And did this influencer take it too far by bringing a camera crew to the New York marathon? And how does Gabby want him to be punished?

Plus, is Harry Kane right about England dropouts? Or has he got a Bayern bias?

00:00 - Prize money

06:57 - Harry Kane on club v country

12:03 - Tyson v Paul

36:20 - Influencer brings camera crew to marathon

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

What does Trump's return mean for global sport? Nov 12, 2024

So, Donald Trump is back in the White House - and while America has decided, the sporting world remains divided...

As the World Cup, Ryder Cup, Olympics and more descend on the US over the next four years, what impact will Trump’s Presidency have on global sport?

Is he on a collision course with the International Olympic Committee over transgender ban?

Will FIFA’s powers grow thanks to Gianni Infantino’s ‘great friend’?

How would he fix golf in 15 minutes?

Investigations reporter for The Telegraph Ben Rumsby & Amnesty International's Steve Cockburn join Gabby & Mark to discuss...

Later, following Mark Cavendish's retirement, close friend and ex-Team GB teammate, Adam Blythe, joins us to discuss Cav's incredible comeback story and cycling legacy.

Plus, The Sports Agents reflect on *that* David Coote video and the potential ramifications for Howard Webb and the PGMOL.

00:00-08:40 - David Coote's rant

08:42- 28:13 - Trump's impact on sport

28:15-47:55 - Mark Cavendish legacy

48:05- 52:08 - Your sporting howlers

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Nov 09, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

Do winning teams need to be a bit "toxic"? England rugby centurion Danny Care, who has won three Six Nations and two Premiership titles, joins us on the podcast to discuss the "dictatorship ruled by fear" at England under Eddie Jones.

Plus, Care spills some of his party stories - can you guess what tattoo he got in Vegas with his England team mates?

Later, we chat about the 'haves' and the 'have nots' in tennis. We're joined by former professional tennis player Conor Niland - if you haven't heard of him, that's kind of the point! The man who beat Roger Federer aged 12 tells us about the loneliness and grind of being outside the top 100, and life on tour with the golden generation.

As Arsenal lose their hugely popular sporting director Edu, we speak to Clive Palmer from The Arsenal Vision Podcast, about the void that he's left at the club and how to fill it.

And we share our sporting howler stories. If you've got one of your own please get in touch!

Got a question for The Sports Agents - email us at thesportsagents@global.com

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

02:40 - England's "dictator" with Danny Care

12:03 - How tennis' other half live

17:51 - Yin to his Yang: Edu and Arteta

23:11 - Sporting howlers

Do winning teams need to be a *bit* toxic? Nov 07, 2024

England rugby centurion Danny Care, who won three Six Nations and two Premiership titles, joins Gabby and Mark on the podcast today...

"A dictator who ruled by fear" - that's how Care describes ex-England manager Eddie Jones. Hyper-successful sporting environments can be toxic. But is that the price you pay to win? Is that healthy? And does it give one person too much power to define careers and lives?

Care also spills some of his rugby stories too - what tattoo do you think he got in Vegas with his England team mates? We find out.

And was that Noel Gallagher on Man City's Champions League commentary?!

00:00 - Habla español?

09:50 - England's Danny Care

36:30 - Noel Gallagher's commentary

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Edu shocks Arsenal & are solo sports bad for you? Nov 05, 2024

As Arsenal lose their hugely popular Sporting Director, Edu, we ask why he'd want to join up with Nottingham Forest’s controversial owner Evangelos Marinakis? How it will impact Arteta and Arsenal's title hopes just under two months from the January transfer window? Clive Palmer from The Arsenal Vision Podcast fills us in...

Plus Gabby & Mark dissect two very different press conferences involving one former Manchester United manager (Jose Mourinho) and one incoming one (Ruben Amorim).

Later, as the world’s top eight tennis players battle it out at the end of year Finals, we look at what is life like for all the players that never make it to those heights? Former professional tennis player Conor Niland, who beat Roger Federer aged 12, tells us about the loneliness, the grind of being outside the top 100 and about life on tour with the golden generation.

00:00 - Mourinho & Amorim

09:28 - Arsenal lose Edu

20:16 - Conor Niland - life on tour with the golden generation

41:18 - Tom Daley's knitting

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Nov 03, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

Imagine being stranded on an icy ledge 6,000m high in the Himalayas for three days with no food or water - that's what happened to British mountaineer Fay Manners who joined Gabby and Mark to tell her story.

Former England rugby captain Dylan Hartley opened up about getting a traumatic brain injury from playing the sport he loves. He called out rugby for having its 'head in the sand' on brain injuries and revealed he got no help with his aftercare post-retirement.

Plus, we had an emergency episode after Manchester United manager Eric ten Hag was sacked and looked at the man who'll be taking over, Ruben Amorim. Andy Mitten from United We Stand and Henry Winter joined us for that chat.

And we went down a rabbit hole of horse sex... yes, you read that right!

Got a question for The Sports Agents - email us at thesportsagents@global.com

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

03:05 - Himalayan horror

11:54 - Ex-England captain on brain injuries

18:20 - Manchester United manager

21:27 - Horse sex

Are 'heads in the sand' about brain injuries in sport? Oct 31, 2024

Former England rugby captain Dylan Hartley tells Gabby and Mark that the sport still has its head in the sand about long-term brain injuries, after he was diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury. Hartley reveals he had to fund his own post-retirement healthcare for his brain health and hip replacement.

As the firm leading rugby's concussion lawsuit is being investigated after claims from ex-England player Will Green, we ask if the case could threaten how rugby deals with brain injuries.

Ex-NFL player Jason Bell tells us what makes the NFL a world leader in brain injury aftercare and what lessons rugby can take from across the pond.

And Mark shares a story about pimping out horses...

05:29 - Dylan Hartley

26:04 - Jason Bell

40:11 - Pimping out horses

Jason Bell has partnered with Samsung, the official TV partner of NFL UK, to create the American Football Jargon Buster to help fans from fumbling the rules.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Vini Jr's Ballon d'Or soap opera & a Himalayan nightmare Oct 29, 2024

As Rodri and Aitana Bonmati won the Ballon D'Or and the Real Madrid boycott turned it into a soap opera, Gabby & Mark get all the gossip and fall-out from Spanish football journalist Guillem Balague.

And why is there no female category for three of the awards? We ask ex-England player Natasha Dowie if the ceremony needs a shake-up.

Plus, imagine being stuck on an icy ledge 6,000 high in the Himalayas for three days with no food and water - that's what happened to British mountaineer Fay Manners who joined us to tell her story.

01:35 - Manchester United & Amorim

10:02 - Ballon D'Or soap opera

26:43 - Stranded up a Himalayan mountain

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

BREAKING: Ten Hag sacked, 'Coach Ruud' & is Amorim next? Oct 28, 2024

It's finally over for Erik ten Hag as Manchester United manager - Why now? And how will club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy cope in the interim?

Gabby is joined by journalists Henry Winter and Andy Mitten (United We Stand) to reflect on the final few days of Ten Hag's reign and assess the leading candidates to succeed him at Old Trafford.

Dutch football writer Sjoerd Mossou weighs in on Ruud's coaching track-record and which United players could thrive under him.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Oct 26, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

Brentford manager Thomas Frank tells us taking a big job like Manchester United wouldn't make his life better, in an exclusive interview. We also talk about the Bees' no d***heads policy, 'secret sauce' and Ivan Toney's gambling ban.

Plus, your questions are answered by Gabby and Mark, who tell stories of meeting their hero in a urinal, singing to the England manager and an awkward encounter with Manchester United legend Eric Cantona.

A North versus South competition hosted by The Sports Agents is on the cards and Olympic gold medallist Jessica Ennis-Hill explains why sprinters don't slick their hair back any more.

Got a question for The Sports Agents - email us at thesportsagents@global.com

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Q&A special: North v South XI, meeting heroes in urinals & serenading the England manager Oct 24, 2024

Your questions are answered by Gabby and Mark, who tell stories of meeting their hero in a urinal, singing to the England manager and an awkward encounter with Manchester United legend Eric Cantona.

Plus, a North versus South competition hosted by The Sports Agents is on the cards and Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill explains why sprinters don't slick their hair back any more.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Thomas Frank on Man United rumours, Ivan Toney & Brentford's 'secret sauce' Oct 22, 2024

Brentford manager Thomas Frank sits down for an exclusive interview with The Sports Agents, amid reports linking him the Manchester United manager's job...

Now the Premier League's second longest-serving manager, behind only Pep Guardiola, Thomas talks to Gabby & Mark about what he describes as the Bees 'secret sauce', if managing at one of the world's biggest clubs would come at a cost to his own happiness, the reaction to Thomas Tuchel getting the England job, losing Ivan Toney in the summer and if some rival coaches are 'too wedded' to one particular playing style?

Plus, Gabby & Mark reflect on a great time to be a New Zealand sports fan and cynicism surrounding how Lionel Messi has got to this summer's Club World Cup.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Oct 19, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

England named German coach Thomas Tuchel as the man to lead the Three Lions to World Cup glory - but does his nationality matter more than how good a manager he is? German football writer Raphael Honigstein, joined Gabby & Mark to explore...

How do clubs actually unearth the best talent? Old-school scouting prowess or new-age AI-infused data? We debate it out with former Brentford, QPR and Rangers manager, Mark Warburton, and the 'data-brain' behind Liverpool hiring Jurgen Klopp, former Director of Research, Ian Graham.

Plus, do 'superstars' get special treatment when it comes to drugs in sport? We talk to Ahmad Nassar, the Executive Director of the Professional Tennis Players' Association, and Edmund Willison, investigative journalist and author of the Honest Sport newsletter.

Got a question for The Sports Agents - email us at thesportsagents@global.com

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Does it matter England's new manager is German? Oct 17, 2024

As England named German Thomas Tuchel as their new manager, Gabby and Mark chat about whether his nationality is really a big deal and if he's the right man for the job. German football journalist, Raphael Honigstein, tells us the German reaction, what he'll be like in the dressing room and why he's not starting till January.

And with that FA manager search now complete, we ask how you find the best talent in the world? Is data a revolution or a threat? We get both sides of the story from former Brentford, QPR and Rangers manager, Mark Warburton, former Director of Research at Liverpool, Ian Graham, and Tom Worville, Head of Football at the sports analytics company, Prospect.

Plus, how young should you start looking for that talent? We get the thoughts of Arsenal Youth Scout (Talent ID lead for North London & Herts) Harry Charalambous.

If you liked this episode, you might also like...

Gareth Southgate resigns... What now?

Next England manager: Meet the candidates

How does a Premier League club find a new manager?

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Drugs in sport: Are 'superstars' getting off lightly? Oct 15, 2024

Jannik Sinner is still tennis’ World No. 1 player, having just claimed his 7th title of the year, with an ongoing doping charge hanging over his head.

Even Novak Djokovic is wondering whether it’s one rule for the stars and another for the rest - so is this just a tennis problem or do sports' superstars get special treatment when it comes to a failed drugs test?

The Executive Director of the Professional Tennis Players’ Association, Ahmad Nassar, joins Gabby & Mark to discuss the Sinner case and double-standards for lower ranked players on the tour.

Later, Edmund Willison, investigative journalist and author of the newsletter Honest Sport, explores how 'broken' anti-doping is in other sports; Paul Pogba's reduced ban and scepticism over Ruth Chepngetich's marathon world record.

If you liked this episode, you might also like...

What it's like to fail a drugs test

Should Olympic athletes be allowed to dope?

Does boxing really care about performance-enhancing drugs?

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Oct 12, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

Gabby & Mark Pougatch welcomed ex-Formula One Team Principle at Haas, Guenther Steiner, to talk about swearing and the unexpected F1 title race, with a bonus question for our weekend listeners.

And after Rafa Nadal announced his retirement during our recording, tennis presenter Marcus Buckland helped us pay tribute to the tennis great.

Plus we quizzed one of the UK’s top sports lawyers and Partner at Sheridans, Daniel Geey, on the landmark ruling in the legal battle between Man City and the Premier League about sponsorships.

Got a question for The Sports Agents - email us at thesportsagents@global.com

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Nadal retires, Klopp to Red Bull & swearing in Formula One Oct 10, 2024

After Jurgen Klopp was named the new head of global soccer at Red Bull, we catch up with long-time friend and the Paralympic athlete who Klopp followed in Paris this summer, New Zealand badminton player Wojtek Czyz.

And with Formula One set for an unexpectedly dramatic end to the season we talk about swearing, gossip and who will win the drivers' championship with two Drive to Survive stars, ex-Haas team boss Guenther Steiner and the voice of F1, Will Buxton.

Plus, Rafa Nadal announced his retirement while we recorded the pod but tennis commentator Marcus Buckland was on hand to help us pay tribute and mourn the end of a golden generation.

If you liked this episode you might also like...

Lando Norris on Verstappen crash and Marvellous Mark Cavendish

The Christian Horner scandal - is Red Bull about to implode?

Henry Winter on Big Ange's ambition, 115 charges & How Liverpool move on from Klopp

Guenther’s new book UNFILTERED: My Incredible Decade in Formula 1 is out now (Bantam, £22).

Buxton's new history of Formula One Grand Prix: An Illustrated History of Formula 1 is out now

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Who actually won in court - Man City or the Premier League? Oct 08, 2024

After two big rulings that could change football's future, Gabby and Mark Pougatch team up to make sense of it all, helped by top sports lawyer and Partner at Sheridans, Daniel Geey.

Could this be the end of the transfer system as we know it? That's after former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder Lassana Diarra won his battle with FIFA, proving that some transfer rules break EU law.

PFA Chief Executive Maheta Molango tells us what this might mean for players and we get the clubs' reaction from CEO of European Club Association, Charlie Marshall.

And did Man City or the Premier League actually win their landmark dispute on sponsorship deals? Could the outcome backfire on some of City's biggest rivals, like Arsenal?

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Arvind Badewal

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Oct 05, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

Gabby & Mark asked former Chelsea talisman Frank Lampard for his thoughts on their current one - Cole Palmer - but is he the best player in the Premier League right now?

Plus, Sam Burgess was among our guests as we explored whether the only way to save Rugby was to reunite the two codes!

And after Liverpool's Ibrahima Konate questioned why he hadn't received the Player of the Match award last weekend, we explained how (and who) actually decides...

Got a question for The Sports Agents - email us at thesportsagents@global.com

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Could a cross-code Rugby merger save both Union & League? Oct 03, 2024

Today on The Sports Agents, we’re delving into a little fantasy... to reunite Rugby League and Union - after more than a century apart - Is it time to bring rugby’s wall down?

Unthinkable, maybe, but if you remove sentiment and tribalism from the equation, is there really enough space for both codes to survive?

Warrington Wolves head coach Sam Burgess and the Daily Mail's Chris Foy join in to explore how would a merger actually work and is there a world in which the codes are stronger, together?

Plus, following an historic night at Villa Park in their return to the Champions League, Gabby & Mark discuss Jhon Duran's rise as one of the 'stories of the season so far'.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Is Cole Palmer the best player in the Premier League right now? Oct 01, 2024

Following another Cole Palmer masterclass on the weekend, Gabby & Mark are joined by Chelsea's all-time leading goalscorer (and former manager) Frank Lampard to discuss his maverick talent...

Despite all the scepticism over their transfer spending, are there clear signs that Enzo Maresca's Chelsea are starting to click? What's it like to work under the sort of game-to-game pressure facing Erik ten Hag at Manchester United and what's next for Frank... The England manager's job?

Plus, after Ibrahima Konate's hilarious post-match interview when he found out he hadn't been awarded the 'Player of the Match' award - who does decide?

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Sep 28, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

We were joined by an array of brilliant guests to assess Anthony Joshua's shock defeat at Wembley and what's turning into a fierce rivalry between Arsenal and Man City.

Later in the week, what finally feels like the end of the Everton takeover saga was in sharp focus. Gabby & Mark wanted to find out who the prospective new owners - The Friedkin Group - really are and why they've become so unpopular in Rome?

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Is the takeover another 'false dawn' for Everton? Sep 26, 2024

With the end of the Everton takeover saga in sight, at last - who are The Friedkin Group and does this represent a 'new dawn' for the Toffees - or just another false one?

The Athletic's Italian football writer James Horncastle, joins Gabby & Mark in the studio for the low-down on the consortium - who also own Serie A side AS Roma - and how their approval rating in Rome has dropped off a cliff over the last nine months...

Former Everton Women's captain Izzy Christiansen -who played for the club as recently as 2023 - also joins the show to discuss how desperately the club need a 'reset' and Matt Jones (Blue Room Podcast) on what it means for manager Sean Dyche?

Plus, Arteta's youthful team selection and a moment of madness from Chris Eubank Jr. in yesterday's London press conference.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Will Rodri's injury define the title race & Should Anthony Joshua retire? Sep 24, 2024

After a heavyweight weekend of sport, Gabby & Mark are back to reflect on a heated contest between Arsenal and Manchester City - Former City goalkeeper Shay Given joins them to discuss Arteta's 'dark arts' and how pivotal a rumoured ACL injury to Man City star Rodri could be, in deciding where the title ends up this season...

Plus, after a defiant Anthony Joshua declared he would fight on after being stunned by Daniel Dubois at Wembley on Saturday night - should he? The Sports Agents are joined by former World Champion Johnny Nelson and Nick Peet (Fight Disciples Podcast) to examine.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Sep 22, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents...

Ahead of the opening matchday of the new and extended Champions League, we were joined by UEFA vice secretary general Giorgio Marchetti and European Clubs Association CEO Charlie Marshall.

Theydiscussed the suggestion that players may need to strike over the ever-increasing number of games and why UEFA's recent letter to No.10 Downing St. was not a thinly-veiled threat to Keir Starmer's government and their plans to introduce an independent football watchdog. And responded to criticism that this new competition format is just a European Super League Mk II.

Later in the week, Gabby and Mark were joined by Olympic bronze medal boxer Lewis Richardson for an insight into what actually happens when an amateur decides to turn professional.

Plus, as the new WSL season kicks off, it's first-ever Chief Exec Nikki Doucet was in our studio to talk about the big split from the FA this summer and the big challenges facing women's football.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Joshua v Dubois & what actually happens when an Olympic boxer decides to go pro? Sep 19, 2024

Ahead of Anthony Joshua v Daniel Dubois, two British fighters with very different journey's to world title fights, Team GB Boxing's saviour this summer - Lewis Richardson - joins Gabby and Mark to discuss the difficult decision amateur boxers face over when to turn professional and what actually happens when you do...

Lewis also looks ahead to an historic night of boxing at Wembley and reflects on his amateur days alongside Daniel Dubois.

Plus, Mark and Gabby reflect on the opening Champions League matchdays and pay tribute to the passing of both Aston Villa legend Gary Shaw and Italia 90's icon Salvatore 'Toto' Schillaci.

Later, the WSL's first-ever CEO, Nikki Doucet is in The Sports Agents studio ahead of a pivotal season for the Women's Super League and Championship, having split from The FA over the summer and with major broadcast deals set to expire at the end of this season.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Is the new Champions League a European Super League by stealth? Sep 17, 2024

After Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson became the latest footballer to complain about the increasing number of games elite professionals are being expected to play, The Sports Agents, investigate the new and extended Champions League format which kicks off later today...

UEFA Vice Secretary General Giorgio Marchetti and European Club's Association Chief Exec Charlie Marshall join Gabby and Mark to discuss the new format, trying to ensure more jeopardy and bigger games for fans and if it end the threat of a breakaway European Super League?

Plus, just how serious is UEFA's recent 'threat' to Keir Starmer's government was regarding Labour's plans for an independent football watchdog?

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Sep 15, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents, Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman are joined by former England rugby captain Will Carling to discuss the future of the game, Spencer Matthews pops by to chat about his successful challenge of running 30 marathons in 30 days and

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Senior Producer: Adem Waterman

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Les Ferdinand on the lack of black coaches in football and Spencer Matthews talks about his record breaking challenge Sep 12, 2024

Former Tottenham and Newcastle strike Les Ferdinand joins The Sports agents to discuss the North London Derby, his time at QPR and the struggles BAME applicants face in football coaching and management.

Plus Spencer Matthews pops into the studio to talk about his incredible world record of running 30 marathons in 30 days in the Jordanian dessert for Globa's charity Make Some Noise.

Senior Producer: Adem Waterman

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Will Carling on Rugby's future & Jannik Sinner US Open win Sep 10, 2024

Former England rugby captain Will Carling joins Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan to discuss the current state of rugby union and how the game can change for the better going forward.

And our man Jack Draper may not have reached the final, but #1 seed Jannik Sinner won his first ever US Open.

Senior Producer: Adem Waterman

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Sep 08, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

Gabby & Mark were joined by former Chelsea F.C manager Emma Hayes to discuss her brand new book, ‘A completely different game: My Leadership playbook’.

There was a half full Lord's in the cricket - why may that have been?

And the team digest how the new Manchester United exec board are getting on after their 3-0 loss to Liverpool.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

BONUS: Emma Hayes - The Full Interview Sep 07, 2024

Emma Hays, former Chelsea manager and current head coach of the U.S national women’s football team joins Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman to discuss her illustrious career, winning Olympic gold, what a real leader is and the physical differences between the men's and women's game.

She also touches on her time at Chelsea and details about coping with loss and the impact mental health has played on her in the last few years in this bonus episode of The Sports Agents.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Senior Producer: Adem Waterman

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Emma Hayes on leadership, her dominating career and winning gold at the Olympics Sep 05, 2024

It's positive news, the podcast hasn't cursed Jack Draper who has made it through to the US Open Semi-Final after defeating Alex De Minaur in New York. And Emma Hayes, current head coach of the U.S women's national football team joins the podcast.

Emma has a brand new book out called ‘A completely different game: My Leadership playbook’, detailing her upbringing in Camden and ending with her move to the U.S, where she won a gold medal at the Olympics.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Senior Producer: Adem Waterman

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Who's still watching the cricket? Sep 03, 2024

With a half empty (or half full depending on your outlook) stadium at Lord's on the weekend, Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman are joined by journalist Tim Wigmore about why that may be. Are tickets prices too high? Have England invested enough in opponents?

And with Manchester United being the words on everyone's lips in the footballing world, The Athletic's Laurie Whitwell joins The Sports Agents to discuss the deeper problems at the club.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Senior Producer: Adem Waterman

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Sep 01, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

Gabby & Mark paid tribute to the former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson who passed away on Monday.

After Emma Raducanu's tearful US Open press conference, following her first-round exit, former British tennis player turned commentator Anna Smith joined us to talk about the 'target on her back'.

And as the transfer deadline approached, 'super-agent' Jon Smith gave us an insight into the chaos as clubs try to get last-minute deals over the line before the window closes.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Inside transfer deadline day & Has Emma Raducanu got a target on her back? Aug 29, 2024

Today on The Sports Agents, Gabby & Mark reflect on Emma Raducanu's tearful first-round exit at the US Open - three years on from her fairytale win in New York - Is there a target on her back and who put it there?

Plus, as the transfer window prepares to slam shut for another summer with Premier League spending down 10%, 'super-agent' Jon Smith helps us dig into the reasons why and brings an insight into what it's really like at clubs trying to get that last-minute deal over the line in time!

Later, Anna Smith, former British tennis player turned co-commentator, explains how Raducanu needs to find stability and consistency to rediscover her best form.

Plus is Louis Rees-Zammit's NFL dream over? And a Paralympic scandal from the year 2000 involving basketball and fake beards.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Audio Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

A tribute to Sven Aug 27, 2024

Gabby & Mark are back! On today's episode, red flags raised at Twickenham after another member of Steve Borthwick's staff resigns and The Paralympic Games start tomorrow!

Plus, The Sports Agents relive their fondest memories of the late England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, who passed away on Monday at the age of 76.

Have the RFU created an 'unstable working environment', is there a lot of suspicion among Paralympic athletes when it comes to rival classification and more.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Audio Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Aug 25, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents...

Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton's new 31-year-old manager - the youngest in Premier League history - joined Gabby for an exclusive interview. He talks his meteoric rise, embracing the culture on England's South Coast, looking forward to coming up against Pep Guardiola and more.

Then on Thursday, with ITV's Mark Pougatch as our special guest host, we examined the Raheem Sterling situation at Chelsea and if their unusual recruitment strategy will ever actually work? Journalist Matt Hughes, applied sport finance expert Rob Wilson and the former Man City defender Nedum Onuoha joined in.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

What is Chelsea's 'bomb squad'? Aug 22, 2024

The Sports Agents are ably replaced by Mark Pougatch as he mans the ship with Gabby and Mark both taking a well-deserved break.

He's joined by sports journalist Matt Hughes, who has insight into a potential points deduction facing Leicester City, which could end up being the difference between top-flight and Championship football come next season...

Then Rob Wilson, a professor of applied sports finance at UCFB, and former Man City defender Nedum Onuoha try to unpick the situation at Chelsea, where manager Enzo Maresca insists there's 'no mess', despite a squad of 40+ eligible players at his disposal, and a number of huge names including Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell frozen out.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Audio Producer: Sophie Penney & Adem Waterman

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Fabian Hurzeler interview: Meet the youngest manager in Premier League history Aug 20, 2024

On today's episode of The Sports Agents, Gabby sits down for an exclusive interview with Fabian Hurzeler - Brighton's new head coach - who at just 31 years old, is the youngest manager in Premier League history...

As Brighton top the table after an impressive victory over Everton at Goodison Park, Fabian reveals what attracted him to England's South Coast, Tony Bloom and 'smarter recruitment', challenging himself and preconceptions about his age.

Plus, he opens up about his fascinating coaching journey so far, and, in case Todd Boehly's listening, how many players are too many players to have in a squad.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Aug 18, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

As we enjoy a brief post-Olympic break, we paused to reflect on an unforgettable summer of sport...

From England's run to the final of the Euros in Berlin, to all of Team GB's success in Paris and so much sporting drama in between - The Sports Agents have been there for all of it.

Plus, before leaving France, Gabby & Mark sat down to wade through all of your questions on everything from the rivalry between broadcasters, which sport they'd compete in at LA 2028 and how to stop a new Premier League season from casting a shadow over all the other sport we've fallen in love with at The Olympic Games.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Q&A Special: Olympic secrets & escaping the shadow of the Premier League Aug 15, 2024

On today's episode, The Sports Agents answer your questions on everything from the Olympic event they'd fancy themselves in, to how all the brilliant sport we enjoyed in Paris, can hope to survive in the shadow of a new Premier League season!

Unconscious bias in judging, the competition between rival broadcasters, how to cram to cover a sport you've never watched before and more...

Get in touch with us at thesportagents@global.com

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

An unforgettable summer of sport Aug 13, 2024

As The Sports Agents take a quick break, we pause to reflect on a truly memorable summer of sport with some of our favourite moments and big interviews on the podcast...

During our time in Berlin, on England's run to the Euros final, Gabby & Mark found out how criticism affects the players inside the camp from Conor Coady and David Moyes joined Gabby for a morning coffee and a chance to reflect on his time at West Ham.

When Gareth Southgate decided to resign after the final, former FA Managing Director Martin Glenn - the man who hired Gareth - joined us to discuss his legacy beyond results on the pitch.

Colin Montgomerie joined us for chat after Rory McIlroy announced he would take a break from golf, following his US Open collapse, and McLaren driver Lando Norris discussed his crash with Max Verstappen ahead of the British Grand Prix too.

Then onto the Olympics in Paris, where the likes of Team GB's most decorated gymnast, Max Whitlock & Josh Kerr joined in the fun at Team GB House.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Olympics Weekend Edition: Week 2 Aug 11, 2024

As we bid 'au revoir' to the 2024 Paris Olympics, The Sports Agents round up the best of the big interviews from our final week inside Team GB House...

Gabby & Mark were joined by running sensation and 1500m silver medalist Josh Kerr, and the most decorated British gymnast in history, Max Whitlock.

Plus, renowned sports scientist, Professor Ross Tucker, to debunk and explain the controversy surrounding the two Olympic boxers at the heart of a gender row.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Josh Kerr on risk, rivalry & are you ready to say goodbye to Paris 2024? Aug 08, 2024

The Sports Agents are joined by 1500m silver medalist Josh Kerr for their last Olympic podcast live from Team GB House...

Josh reflects on one of the most anticipated final races of the Olympics, his gripping rivalry with Jakob Ingebrigtsen and why you've got to risk losing in order to have a chance to win.

Plus, Gabby & Mark discuss Mark Hudson-Smith's journey from quitting the sport to Olympic silver, George Mills being a chip off the ol' block and why they're not ready to say goodbye to the Games, just yet.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Max Whitlock on his final Olympics, ‘old man strength’ & trying to get a skill named after himself... brought to you by The National Lottery Aug 07, 2024

The Sports Agents are joined in Team GB house by six-time Olympic medallist & the most decorated British gymnast in history, Max Whitlock, for a special episode brought to you by The National Lottery.

An athlete whose legacy stretches back all the way to London 2012, a pommel horse specialist, having proven himself on the Olympic, Commonwealth, World and European stage, time and time again...

He was back for one last go in Paris and came agonisingly close but today, Max sits down with Gabby & Mark to reflect on an incredible career, inspiring the next generation of great British gymnasts, the secrets to his longevity and on trying to get a skill named after himself!

Search National Lottery Paris 2024 to find out more. The National Lottery. Changing Lives Every Day.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Inside boxing's gender row & the greatest 100m final ever? Aug 06, 2024

The Sports Agents reflect on another incredible evening on the track as Armand Duplantis broke the world record, Keely Hodgkinson won gold for Team GB and Noah Lyles collected his own gold medal for what many are describing as the best 100m final of all time...

Plus, Professor Ross Tucker joins Gabby & Mark to dive into the details surrounding the eligibility testing of Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-Ting as boxing's Olympic gender row rumbles on. They discuss a scandalous IBA press conference, Russia's involvement and the IOC's failure to protect the athletes at the heart of this sorry chapter of Olympic history.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Olympics Weekend Edition: Week 1 Aug 04, 2024

After an unforgettable first week at the Paris Olympics,The Sports Agents return to round up the big interviews from their first week in Paris...

Gold medal rowers Hannah Scott and Lola Anderson joined Gabby & Mark, in our Team GB House studio, to reflect on a nail-biting photo-finish win and wanting to shatter the traditional image of what a female athlete 'looks like'.

Sky Sports boxing commentator Andy Clarke was on hand to try to explain GB boxing's disastrous Olympics so far and the bigger question which hangs over boxing's future as an Olympic sport at all.

Plus, synchronised divers Noah Williams and Scarlett Mew Jensen reveal what it's really like to hit the pool at speeds of over 30mph.

Search for The Sports Agents to listen to these interviews in full, plus so much more insight and reaction to the Games.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Will we ever see boxing at The Olympics again? Aug 01, 2024

As the first full week of relentless Olympic drama draws to a close, The Sports Agents, strike GOLD in the studio as Team GB rowers Lola Anderson and Hannah Scott stop in, to reflect on the most nail-biting finish of the Games so far...

The pair speak honestly about shattering the traditional image of women in sport and the huge strides sports science is taking to prevent injury in female athletes.

Later, Sky Sports' Boxing commentator Andy Clarke joins Gabby & Mark to explain GB Boxing's disastrous Olympics and why its very future, at The Olympic Games, is under threat.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Will Paris 2024 be the best Olympics ever? Jul 30, 2024

The Sports Agents are live from Team GB House for the first of a series of podcasts over the 2024 Paris Olympic Games...

Gabby & Mark reflect on an audacious opening ceremony, the incredible atmosphere around the French capital and some of the highlights of the first few days.

Plus, Team GB synchronised divers Scarlett Mew Jensen and Noah Williams join us to explain what it really takes to dive for an Olympic medal. Does it hurt hitting the water from the 10M board, Tom Daley's legacy and if winning a medal really changes an athlete's life overnight.

Later, the sports agents relive *that* Roy Keane moment at 2002 World Cup after news that it is being turned into a new film starring Steve Coogan!

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Olympics Weekend Edition Jul 28, 2024

All week long The Sports Agents have been building up to the start of The 2024 Paris Olympics...

London Mayor Sadiq Khan sat down with Gabby to reflect on the real legacy of London 2012, why he wants to bring the Games back to the capital and as more and more international sporting events come to the UK, if Premier League games will go the other way?

Earlier in the week, Andy Anson - British Olympic Association Chief Executive - explained what makes brand 'Team GB' so unique in world sport. And the former Olympian Jack Buckner, now head of UK Athletics, explained how the sport can evolve to protect its own future, despite a 'golden generation' of British athletes.

Got a question about the Olympics for Gabby & Mark - email (or send a voice-note) to us at thesportsagents@global.com

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Sadiq Khan on bringing The Olympics back to London Jul 25, 2024

On the eve of the Olympic opening ceremony in Paris, The Sports Agents sit down with London Mayor Sadiq Khan, to discuss his intention to launch a bid for the 2040 Olympic Games...

What is the real legacy of London 2012, is hosting the Games still worth it, how does London compete with the likes of Saudi Arabia for global sporting events and will Premier League games inevitably move abroad?

Gabby & Mark also reflect on Charlotte DuJardin's ban and the decision to allow Beach volleyball player Steven van de Velde to participate.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Shane Fennelly

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

The Olympic struggle to stay relevant Jul 23, 2024

With only a few days until the opening ceremony in Paris, The Sports Agents find out more about Team GB's 'golden generation' and if they'll soon become household names.

Are the Olympic Games still at the pinnacle of world sport and how much are they prepared to change in order to stay relevant?

In wide-ranging interviews with both Andy Anson, British Olympic Association CEO, and Jack Buckner, a 5000m Champion now Chief Executive of UK Athletics - Gabby & Mark discuss the strength of the 'Team GB brand', public faith in a clean sport, the threat of prize-money to the 'Olympic spirit' and much more.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Jul 21, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents, Gareth Southgate resigned following England's Euro 2024 final defeat, and the world's best golfers tee'd it up for the 152nd Open Championship...

The man who hired Gareth, former FA Managing Director Martin Glenn, joined Gabby & Mark for an insight into the process of finding his replacement and The Athletic's Jack Pitt-Brooke joined us in the studio to help assess the leading candidates.

After Rory McIlroy defended his own caddie ahead of his first appearance at a major tournament since his US Open collapse, we were also joined by caddies Billy Foster (Matt Fitzpatrick) and Jeff Brighton (Colin Montgomerie)to find out more about the mind-blowing complexities of the role and how much difference a great one can really make.

Search for The Sports Agents to hear these episodes in full. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Next England manager: Meet the candidates Jul 18, 2024

After Gareth Southgate resigned while we were recording Tuesday's episode, today, The Sports Agents run the rule over the candidates to replace him...

The Athletic's Jack Pitt-Brooke is in the studio to explain why Eddie Howe will be difficult to prise from Newcastle and why the FA have not ruled out non-English options.

And later, as golf caddies have been making headlines (for good and bad reasons) over the last few weeks - and to mark the start of The Open - Gabby and Mark find out what makes a great caddy and what really goes into the job. With interviews from Colin Montgomerie's caddie Jeff Brighton and the incomparable Billy Foster - Matt Fitzpatrick's caddie this week but who has also been on the bag for the likes of Tiger Woods and Seve Ballesteros.

Plus, Gabby reflects on the viral video that has landed Chelsea's record-signing Enzo Fernandez in hot water after he broadcast his Argentina teammates performing a racist chant after winning the Copa America final.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Gareth Southgate resigns... What now? Jul 16, 2024

England manager Gareth Southgate has resigned... So who will the FA look to next, does his successor need to be English and how difficult will it be to fill his shoes?

The Sports Agents are joined by former FA Managing Director Martin Glenn - the man who hired Gareth - to reflect on that process, as well as, the true scale of Southgate's legacy, which reaches far beyond this summer's Euros in Germany.

Matt Lawton of The Times also joins Gabby and Mark to discuss Eddie Howe's credentials as the current favourite to replace him.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Jul 14, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

We reflected on England's run to today's Euro 2024 final, Lewis Hamilton's record 9th British GP win and Novak Djokovic turning on the centre court crowd at Wimbledon.

But you asked us to find out what's going on at Manchester United, after it emerged that the Women's side would be moved to 'portacabins' in order to accommodate the men - so we were joined by a host of guests including the former Head of Women's football at United, Polly Bancroft, to investigate a growing sense that the club's new owners simply don't care about the Women's game.

With England v Spain on the brain and to mark two weeks until the start of the Olympics in Paris - a couple of TeamGB icons, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill and Iwan Thomas, joined us to talk about how to 'peak' at just the right time for a moment that may only come around once in an athlete's career.

Search for The Sports Agents to listen in full. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

England reach Euro 2024 Final & How to 'peak' for the Olympics Jul 11, 2024

An incredible night. An unexpected hero. Gabby Logan reflects on England making it through to Sunday's Euro 2024 final, Gareth Southgate's inspired subsand Ollie Watkins' late winner...

But as this incredible summer of sport continues - we're also just two weeks away from the start of the Olympics in Paris - a tiny window in time where athletes need everything to go perfectly for a shot at gold...

The Sports Agents are joined by former Team GB Icons, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill and Iwan Thomas, to discuss pre-Games nerves, the mechanics (and tactics) of an Olympic sprint and whether Michael Johnson's new Grand Slam Track League is the answer?

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Do Jim Ratcliffe's Man United care about women's football? Jul 09, 2024

Players moved in to cabins to accommodate the men's team, genuine superstars like Mary Earps leaving the club and disparaging comments in the media - So, do Manchester United's new owners actually care about women's football?

The Sports Agents speak to Kelly Simmons - the former Director of Women’s Pro game at the FA, Polly Bancroft - former Head of Women's football at Man United, and Tom Garry - the football writer who broke the 'portacabin' exclusive, to find out.

Plus, was Novak Djokovic wrong to turn on Wimbledon fans & why Lewis Hamilton's Silverstone win means Formula 1 is BACK!

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Jul 07, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

As the French public head to the polls on Sunday for the final round of voting in their own National Election, Gabby and Mark reflect on the significance of France's Euros campaign after Kylian Mbappe and co. urged young voters to resist the rise of the far-right.

Gabby & Mark caught up with French football writer Tom Williams and our own Jon Sopel to explore a complicated history between the country and it's men's national team.

And ahead of the British Grand Prix, McLaren's Lando Norris joined us in studio for a fascinating interview, just days after his Austria crash with friend and rival Max Verstappen.

In a wide-ranging interview he explains the speed of thought required to make split-second decisions while driving at speeds of over 200mph and what it would trade to win his home race!

Search for The Sports Agents to listen in full - Plus, more on Mark Cavendish' record-breaking Tour de France stage win & Cristiano Ronaldo's heart-rate during a penalty shoot-out.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Lando Norris on Verstappen crash & Marvellous Mark Cavendish Jul 04, 2024

Today on The Sports Agents - Formula One driver Lando Norris joins us in studio, days on from his Austria crash with friend and rival Max Verstappen, and just hours before his home race at Silverstone this Sunday...

Has all the chaos surrounding Team Red Bull and Christian Horner created an opportunity for Lando and McLaren? What really goes on inside his head at speeds of over 200mph and what he'd trade to win a home race!

Gabby and Mark also marvel at Cristiano Ronaldo's heart-rate data during Portugal's penalty shootout and are also joined by broadcaster Ned Boulting, live from The Tour de France, after Sir Mark Cavendish's record-breaking stage win.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Can Mbappe stop the far-right's rise to power in France? Jul 02, 2024

Before France had even kicked a ball at Euro 2024, captain Kylian Mbappé had warned that his country were approaching a ‘crucial moment in their history’...

France, one of the pre-tournament favourites, are still battling to win the European Championship after squeezing past Belgium and into Friday's quarter-final against Portugal.

... Two days before the country goes to the polls again for the final round of voting in a high-stakes national election, where the far-right - are also on track to win.

The Sports Agents, check in with The News Agents' Jon Sopel - live in Paris - to explore why the success of the French National team is so at odds with Marie Le Pen’s party politics.

And later, are joined by French football writer and author Tom Williams, to discuss the national team's proud history of diversity and how victory for the far-right this Sunday will impact the Olympics in Paris later this month?

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Jun 30, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

We asked if the media actually has any responsibility to help build the confidence of the England National team, after Harry Kane and other members of the squad responded to recent criticism of their performances at Euro 2024...

Conor Coady - part of Gareth Southgate's last two England squads for major tournaments - joined Gabby & Mark for insight into the 'meticulous' nature of the England manager, how difficult social media has made it for players to ignore abuse while stuck in a Euros camp and which young players are ready to step up and lead in the absence of some of the old guard.

Later, as a flurry of 'swap deals' for academy graduates between Premier League clubs for eye-catching transfer fees made headlines, Professor of Applied Sports Finance at UCFB, Rob Wilson, explored how 'fair market value' for a player is actually determined.

And we heard from PFA Managing Director Maheta Molango, on the state of the current transfer market, the welfare of the young footballers at the centre of these deals and if strike action is inevitable.

Remember, you can send your questions, story suggestions or thoughts on the weekend's action to us - thesportsagents@global.com.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

A Premier League 'swap-deal' conspiracy & England's route to Euros Final Jun 27, 2024

Today on The Sports Agents - A flurry of ‘swap deals’ for academy graduates between Premier League clubs (for some eyebrow-raising transfer fees) led to reports that a 'loophole' in the current 'PSR' financial rules for clubs had been exploited...

So do the Premier League investigate, how do you decide the ‘fair market value’ of a footballer and are rival clubs really conspiring to get bend the rules?

Mark & Gabby are joined by Professor of Applied Sports Finance at UCFB Rob Wilson, and Chief Intelligence Officer at Twenty First Group, Omar Chaudhuri, to explain.

And what about the young players at the heart of this story? PFA Chief Exec Maheta Molango, joined us to reflect on the state of the transfer window and the welfare of players.

Plus, with Gabby still out in Berlin (where the Wifi isn't as good) they discuss why England's route to the Euros final isn't as "easy" as some have suggested.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Should the media 'support' England more at Euro 2024? Jun 24, 2024

Today on The Sports Agents - do the media actually have a responsibility to 'support' England more during a major international tournament?

After Harry Kane and his England teammates bit back at recent criticism, England international Conor Coady sat down with Gabby & Mark for what it's really like inside Gareth Southgate's England camps...

Will it lead to a siege mentality within the group, who are England's next generation of young leaders and how difficult is it to ignore criticism while on international duty.

Later, Gabby also reflects on the Track & Field trials in the US over the weekend - and Snoop Dogg's 200m time!

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Jun 23, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

After Rory McIlroy's dramatic decision to take a break from Golf, following his collapse at the US Open, Gabby & Mark were joined by 2010 Ryder Cup winning captain and five-time major runner up Colin Montgomerie, to debate whether golf is the most mentally-challenging sport out there and to re-live the US Open he himself 'threw away' back in 2006.

Later in the week, as Scotland kept their hopes a place in the knock-out stages of Euro 2024 alive, David Moyes joined Gabby for a morning coffee in Berlin, to discuss Tartan Army spirit, his own managerial future and player welfare as the number of games they're expected to play each season, continues to grow.

Plus, with the new season's Premier League fixtures announced, we explored how the televised calendar really comes together with Sky Sports Director of Football Gary Hughes.

Don't forget to rate, follow or subscribe so you never miss a show.

Send your questions (or voicenotes) for our upcoming Euro 2024 Q&A to us at thesportsagents@global.com or via our socials.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

David Moyes on Scotland’s Euro 2024 lifeline, Declan Rice & if footballers should go on strike? Jun 20, 2024

Fresh from his appearance as a TV pundit during Scotland's 1-1 draw with Switzerland in Germany, former West Ham boss David Moyes sits down with The Sports Agents to reflect, as Scotland's Euro 2024 adventure continues...

He also opens up about his departure from West Ham this summer, his future in management and if strike action is the only way for players to address the number of games they're facing next season.

Later, ever wondered how those televised games in the Premier League really get selected? Director of Football at Sky Gary Hughes gives us a little insight into how it works, after the new season's fixtures were released.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb & Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Why McIlroy needs a break from Golf & We're at the Euros! Jun 18, 2024

After Rory McIlroy's decision to take a break from Golf - following his US Open collapse - The Sports Agents explore how a unique set of challenges have taken their toll on one of the best players in the world and how elite athletes cope with failure...

2010 Ryder Cup-winning captain & 5-time Major Runner-up Colin Montgomerie joins Gabby & Mark to discuss the extreme psychological test the sport provides and reflects on his own US Open meltdown.

Sports Psychologist & Golf performance coach of Jon Adleralso reveals the techniques the pros need to master in order to manage pressure situations like a putt to win a major or, as we're in Berlin for the Euros, a penalty shootout!

And with Euro 2024 underway, Gabby & Mark celebrate some brilliant early games and some of the amazing scenes created by travelling fans.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Jun 16, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

How and why did an image of Arsenal's Bukayo Saka become the main feature on the back pages of almost every major newspaper following England's 1-0 defeat to Iceland... despite him only featuring as a 65th minute substitute.

Football writer Henry Winter and Channel 4 sports correspondent Jordan Jarrett-Bryan joined Gabby and Mark and reveal how these photos are chosen and why the context is important when it comes to Saka and England.

And as promised, also this week, we took a closer look at Netball Super League 2.0 - the fallout, the repercussions for the game at grassroots level and the perfect example of what happens when a 'smaller' sport makes the decision to go professional.

NSL managing director Claire Nelson and Team Bath's own Kadeen Corbin were among those to feature on this special episode.

Just scroll back through The Sports Agents feed to listen to these shows in full. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Do smaller sports need to go pro to survive? Jun 13, 2024

Does every sport need to professionalise in order to survive?...

When plans for a revamped Netball Super League were revealed in May, fans and players were outraged at the exclusion of four franchises, including 5-time Champions Team Bath.

Today, on The Sports Agents, Gabby & Mark speak to key stakeholders to find out how those uncomfortable decisions were reached and the effect the new changes will have on both current players and the next generation - as the entire South West of England (and Scotland) have been left without a team.

Will Netball Super League 2.0 and the broadcast deals to televise every game enhance the sport, or will the changes mean many young fans are lost to other sports?

NSL Managing Director Claire Nelson, Sarah Gandon from the Players' Association and Team Bath's own Kadeen Corbin feature, as well as, your questions!

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

How (and why) Saka became the face of England's failure again Jun 11, 2024

If you hadn't actually watched England's defeat to Iceland in their final warm-up game ahead of the Euros, you'd have been forgiven for thinking Bukayo Saka was largely responsible...

Images of the Arsenal talisman adorned the back pages of almost every major newspaper - despite him only being introduced as a 65th minute substitute at Wembley on Friday night.

Today on The Sports Agents, Gabby & Mark are joined by football writer Henry Winter and Channel 4 sports correspondent Jordan Jarrett-Bryan, to explain the why the context matters, how those photos actually end up on the back pages of multiple publications, and ultimately, why this keeps happening with Saka & England.

And later, a sneak peek at Thursday's special episode into the fall-out from the announcement of a Netball Super League 2.0.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producers: David Domb & Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Jun 07, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

The extraordinary story of Khalida Popal - the first ever captain of the Afghanistan Women's National Football Team - hounded out of her country by those who believed women have no right to play and who orchestrated her team's daring escape from Afghanistan, when the Taliban returned.

Then, as Manchester City announced legal action against the Premier League, Gabby & Mark found out if this new legal action could influence the outcome of their long-awaited hearing into 115 alleged breaches of the Premier League's financial rules - Sports lawyer Daniel Geey gave us his verdict.

And former footballer-turned-agent, Paul Dalglish, joined us to discuss the ethics and issues in football agency, their role in multi-million pound transfers and why the industry needs to evolve.

Just scroll back through The Sports Agents feed to listen to these interviews in full.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Why Man City's legal action won't save them from 115 charges Jun 06, 2024

As Manchester City go to war with Premier League over its financial rules - how crucial is next week's hearing to the Champions beating their 115 charges once and for all?

Sheridan's Sports lawyer Daniel Geey, explains the nuanced differences between the two cases involving Associated Party Transaction Rules, how 'fair market-value' is actually determined and why Man City will have more support from rival Premier League teams than you might think.

Then, as the mother of all transfer sagas ended with Kylian Mbappe's 'free' transfer to Real Madrid, former footballer and coach, turned football agent, Paul Dalglish, joins Gabby & Mark to reflect on the evolving landscape for agents, address some of the stereotypes and explain what it's really like to put these multi-million pound deals together.

Running Order:

Man City v Premier League (04:14)

The evolution of football agents (25:00)

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producers: David Domb & Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Are FIFA really waiting for Taliban to let girls play football? Jun 04, 2024

When Afghanistan's capital city fell to the Taliban back in 2021, life for women across the country changed overnight… The national women's football team faced the real threat of execution, just for playing the game...

Already in exile, the country's first ever female football captain Khalida Popal - our guest on The Sports Agents today - orchestrated a massive evacuation strategy to get the players out of Kabul and into safety in places like the UK, Portugal and Australia.

Now, FIFA, the world's governing body for football, no longer recognises the team who is set to miss their second major tournament this summer.

*Trigger warning* Some of the themes explored within our interview contains mention of suicide and suicidal thoughts.

Plus, how Robert MacIntyre claimed his first ever win on the PGA tour, after his dad flew out to Canada to stand in as an emergency caddie for him, and a tribute to the life and legacy of Rugby League legend Rob Burrow.

Running order:

Rob MacIntyre & his dad Dougie the emergency caddie (07:35)

Khalida Popal interview (13:20)

Rob Burrow tribute (34:30)

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producers: David Domb & Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition May 31, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

UK cyclist Lizzy Banks joined Gabby & Mark in the studio, following her 10-month battle with UK Anti-Doping, for an insight into what actually happens when you fail a drugs test and the reality of trying to live as a 'clean' athlete under the current rules.

The youngest executive in English football history, and current West Ham Director, Jack Sullivan, joined us later in the week to to help us find out how the big calls, like replacing the head coach, or voting on whether or not to scrap VAR, are actually made at Premier League clubs.

Just scroll back through The Sports Agents feed to listen to these interviews in full. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

How does a Premier League club find a new manager? May 30, 2024

Today on The Sports Agents - as Bayern Munich announce Vincent Kompany, Chelsea turn to Enzo Maresca and Barcelona appoint Hansi Flick - West Ham Director, Jack Sullivan, gives us an insight into how the big calls are really made at Premier League clubs.

Jack reflects on how David Moyes exit was handled, the process of identifying his successor Julen Lopetegui, as well as, the due diligence involved in transfers, being a teenager in a Premier League boardroom and how clubs will work together ahead of next week's vote to decide on the future of VAR.

Plus, Gabby & Mark explain the big shake-up in the Netball Super League, which hascaused outrage on the south-coast and why it matters that Emma Hayes' replacement at Chelsea, is not a man.

Running order:

Jack Sullivan interview (06:40)

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

What it's like to fail a drugs test May 28, 2024

*Trigger warning* Some of the themes explored within our interview with Lizzy Banks contains mention of suicide and suicidal thoughts

Today on The Sports Agents, what's it really like for athletes living under the cloud of a failed drugs test?

Lizzy Banks, the UK cyclist who has spoken out against Anti-Doping authorities following her 10-month battle to clear her name - which ultimately cost her, her sporting career and almost her life.

Lizzy sheds light on the mind-blowing level of commitment it takes to be a 'clean athlete' and why WADA's rules are no longer fit for purpose.

Plus, Gabby & Mark pay homage to some monster times from British middle-distance runners in the run up to the Paris Olympics as Josh Kerr and Keely Hodgkinson impressed in Oregon over the weekend.

Running order:

Lizzy Banks interview (11:07)

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Sophie Penney

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition May 24, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents,

We brought you an exclusive interview between The News Agents' own Jon Sopel and the Arsenal and Ukraine defender Oleksandr Zinchenko - who reflected Arsenal's season and waning support for the war.

A special insight into how world title fights are actually scored from the referee at the centre of what was described as the 'biggest robbery in boxing history'.

Gabby & Mark then sat down with the Football League Chairman Rick Parry to discuss the widening gulf between the Premier League and The Championship, ahead of this weekend's Play-Off final.

Plus, reaction to Gareth Southgate's provisional squad for this summer's Euros with Joe Cole and much more...

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Is Premier League promotion starting to feel pointless? May 23, 2024

Ahead of the Championship Play-off Final, dubbed 'the richest game in football', EFL Chairman Rick Parry, joins Gabby & Mark to answer the big questions facing the Football League - What’s the point in Premier League promotion? Is the gulf between the top two tiers of English football too big and how would a Government regulator close it?

Plus, with Vincent Kompany set to succeed Thomas Tuchel at Bayern Munich and as Chelsea eye Ipswich's Kieran McKenna and Leicester's Enzo Maresca, how has the profile of a desirable manager changed?

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: Rory Symon

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Judging the 'biggest robbery in British boxing history' May 22, 2024

Was Oleksandr Usyk's split-decision victory over Tyson Fury for the undisputed heavyweight crown the correct decision? Should the referee have stopped the fight in the 9th? Does boxing need VAR?...

The Sports Agents brings you a bonus interview with former star referee and judge, Ian John-Lewis,days before the eagerly anticipated rematch between Josh Taylor and Jack Catterall - a fight described as the 'biggest robbery in boxing history', where Ian was one of the two judges who scored it in favour of Taylor... and never worked for the British Boxing Board of Control again.

In this bonus episode, Gabby & Mark explore how elite fights are actually scored, what influences the decision to let a boxer continue and Ian's long drawn-out court battle to clear his name.

New episodes every Tuesday & Thursday

Zinchenko exclusive: Ukraine's 'real heroes' & Why Arsenal's trophies will come May 21, 2024

Today on The Sports Agents, an exclusive interview with the Arsenal & Ukraine defender Oleksandr Zinchenko.

In an emotional sit-down with The News Agents' Jon Sopel, Zinchenko talks about football and the war. The pride in representing Ukraine at this summer's European Championships and his 'duty' to use his profile to continue to help.

Plus, as the Gunners missed out on the Premier League title on the final day, Zinchenko explains why Arteta's team are edging closer to silverware and reflects on that Son one-on-one!

Later, after Gareth Southgate named his provisional England squad for this summer's Euros, Mark & Gabby speak to former England forward Joe Cole about what it feels like to make the squad for a tournament, Rashford's omission and Foden's best position.

Guest Sports Agent: Jon Sopel

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition May 17, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents former England defender Rio Ferdinand joined us to discuss the stigma around mental health in football and whether teams are now better equipped to work with players who are struggling.

We were also joined by Jadon Sancho's former youth coach and mentor Sayce Lewis-Holmes to find out more about the level of pressure on aspiring footballers today.

Plus, with a huge final couple of days in the Premier League and WSL seasons this weekend, football writer Henry Winter talked us through a whole host of topics including the 115 charges for Manchester City over alleged breaches of financial fair play.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday

Henry Winter on Big Ange's ambition, 115 charges & How Liverpool move on from Klopp? May 16, 2024

Today on The Sports Agents, is it ever OK to want your own team to lose, would Manchester City's historic fourth consecutive title require an asterisk and how do you move on from legendary managers like Jurgen Klopp and Emma Hayes...

Writer Henry Winter joins Gabby and Mark in the studio to debate the big stories heading into the final weekend of the Premier League and WSL seasons.

Running order:

Big Ange's big ambitions (04:12)
Man City's 115 charges (14:33)
Jurgen Klopp & Emma Hayes (24:00)
Fury v Usyk (41:20)

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producer: Shane Fennelly & Arvind Badewal

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Clips:

John Fury (Sky Sports)

Mauricio Pochettino (BBC)

Rio Ferdinand on Sancho, Rashford & the mental health crisis in football May 14, 2024

Rio Ferdinand joins The Sports Agents to discuss the stigma around mental health in sports and a new campaign aimed at helping children to understand their emotions.

As more Premier League stars open up about their own mental health struggles, Gabby & Mark asked the former Manchester United defender if his old club has been equipped to help players like Marcus Rashford & Jadon Sancho.

Later, we're joined by Sancho's mentor and former youth coach Sayce Holmes-Lewis to talk more about the mentality of a prodigious six-year-old Sancho, how Dortmund helped him to rediscover his confidence and the extreme pressures on young aspiring male and female players.

Plus, a weather report from a leaky Old Trafford after Mark is soaked on TV duty and Gabby tells us about Phoebe Gill - the teenage runner who just shocked the Athletics world.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producer: Rory Symon

Social Media Editor: Rory Symon

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Clips:

Wayne Rooney (Sky Sports)

Phoebe Gill (Team GB)

Weekend Edition May 10, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents, Gabby & Mark took a closer look at a controversial new rule in cricket - the impact player in the IPL - and whether it's introduction became a threat to the fabric of the sport.

The Telegraph's Nick Hoult joined us in the studio to discuss it's impact on the game and whether the current domestic schedule demands too much from players.

And with the 'fight of the century' a week away between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk, just how big is the latest drug scandal to hit boxing?

Two-weight world champion Carl Frampton and broadcaster Adam Catterall explore how sensation Ryan Garcia is making headlines.

Catch up with full episodes for more on how much Declan Rice's West Ham depature impacted David Moyes and his final season at the club, and just how do Real Madrid always find a way in the Champions League?

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Does boxing really care about performance-enhancing drugs? May 09, 2024

Today on The Sports Agents - with 'The Fight of the Century'between Fury and Usyk just over a week away - how damaging is its latest drugs scandal?

Gabby & Mark are joined by the former two-weight World Champion Carl Frampton and broadcaster Adam Catterall to reflect on one of the most bizarre chapters in recent boxing history - involving Ryan Garcia.

Handsome, talented and unstable. So why has his stunning victory over Super Lightweight Champion Devin Haney been overshadowed and when, if ever, will boxing take PEDs seriously?

Plus, how Real Madrid always find a way to the Champions League final and just how difficult is it to measure a course for a marathon?

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producers: David Domb

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Rory Symon

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Is IPL even cricket anymore? May 07, 2024

Today on The Sports Agents - Has the introduction of 'impact players' in the Indian Premier League become a 'threat to the fabric of the sport?'

The Telegraph's Nick Hoult joins Gabby & Mark to reflect on a rule change which has divided cricket fans all over the world... While the IPL's franchises, big broadcast deals, and brilliant blend of Bollywood has been widely celebrated - have they made a fatal mistake in meddling with the actual game?

Plus, was David Moyes right to single out Declan Rice as the reason West Ham have suffered so many big defeats away from home this season and would any UK sportsperson ever submit themselves to a 'comedy roast' like Tom Brady?

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producers: David Domb

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Rory Symon

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Clips:

The Greatest Roast of All Time: Tom Brady (Netflix)

Kyren Wilson - World Snooker Championships (BBC)

Rohit Sharma - Club Prairie Fire Podcast

Weekend Edition May 03, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents, Gabby & Mark explored whether a Premier League salary cap will actually help smaller clubs bridge the gap to the 'Big 6' and if it could lead to a bigger drain on top English talent...

Former Lioness Jill Scott was in the studio to explain why Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham is the obvious candidate to succeed Bayern Munich's Harry Kane as England captain - as they went head-to-head in the Champions League semi-finals.

And legendary boxing promoter Frank Warren joined us to reflect on his rivalry with the Hearn family, the British public's complicated relationship with Tyson Fury and the night he was shot outside one of his shows...

Catch up with the full episodes for more on Billy Vunipola's Mallorca arrest and Jadon Sancho's resurgence in Dortmund.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Exclusive: Frank Warren on Eddie Hearn, Tyson Fury & getting shot May 02, 2024

Today on The Sports Agents, a fascinating interview with legendary boxing promoter Frank Warren...

Nothing was off-limits, including his long-standing rivalry with the Hearn family, Tyson Fury's remarkable comeback, Riyadh Season coming to Wembley and that fateful night back in 1989 when he was shot outside one of his own shows.

Also on the podcast - Gabby & Mark discuss Sancho's starring role for Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, and Billy Vunipola's Mallorca arrest.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producers: David Domb

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Rory Symon

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Kane vs Jude & A Premier League talent drain? Apr 30, 2024

As Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane prepare to face off in the Champions League semi-finals, The Sports Agents explore whether plans to introduce a Premier League salary cap, could lead to a drain on top English talent?

Former Lioness Jill Scott joins Mark and Gabby in studio, to reflect on their success at Real Madrid and Bayern Munich respectively, and if the Premier League's loss could still be England's gain at the Euros this summer.

Plus, a sneak peek at a very special interview with the iconic British boxing promoter Frank Warren, coming your way on Thursday.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producers: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Rory Symon

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

Weekend Edition Apr 27, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents...

A Premier League launched an attack on VAR via their social media account - and threatened legal action... Is there actually any legal recourse for victims of a dodgy offside decision? The Athletic's David Ornstein joined us on the pod to discuss the chaos at Nottingham Forest.

Ultra-marathon runner Jasmine Parris then spoke to Gabby & Mark about becoming the first women to ever complete the Barkley Marathons and just what it takes to conquer the legendary 100-mile race.

With the NFL Draft taking place this weekend and the number one pick going to Mark's beloved Chicago Bears, former Dallas Cowboys star Jason Bell told us how it all works and why the ingenious system should be the envy of European football.

And after Liverpool's defeat to Everton in midweek we asked if Jurgen Klopp has announced his Anfield departure too soon.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Is the NFL Draft the envy of European football? Apr 25, 2024

Today, The Sports Agents catch NFL Draft fever and are joined by former cornerback for the Dallas Cowboys Jason Bell to explore how one pick can transform the fortunes of their beloved team, overnight.

Colleen Wolfe then joins us live from Detroit to discuss the global audience for the 3-day event and why it represents the kind of league parity that European football fans can only dream of...

Who is number 1 pick Caleb Williams and how does a 22-year-old quarterback with a 'generational talent' tag already on his back, handle the pressure & expectation of Bears fans, like Mark Chapman.

Plus, Mark and Gabby react to Liverpool's defeat in the Merseyside derby and Wayne Rooney's suggestion that Jurgen Klopp announced his departure from Anfield at the wrong time.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producers: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Rory Symon

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Why Nottingham Forest went to war with VAR Apr 23, 2024

After an explosive statement from a Premier League club alleged that a video-assistant referee, with allegiances to a rival team, should have been removed from their game on Sunday - The Sports Agents reflects on more unintended consequences of VAR and the growing threat to the sport's integrity...

Should a 'melodrama' between Nottingham Forest, the Premier League and the FA ever play out on social media? What was former referee Mark Clattenburg's role in the story and should he resign? And why is the Barcelona President Joan Laporta demanding a replay following their El Clasico defeat on the same day!

The Athletic's David Ornstein joins Gabby & Mark to unpack the conspiracy theories and whether or not there is infact legal recourse for clubs like Forest - plus his breaking story on Sporting's highly coveted head coach Ruben Amorim and if he'll be heading to West Ham this summer.

Later, following Sunday's London Marathon, Ultra-marathon runner Jasmin Paris joins us to talk about the Barkley Marathons - after she became the first woman to finish the legendary race - which makes 26.2 miles sound like a stroll in the city!

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Video Producers: Sam Trudgill & Rory Symon

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Clips:

Jim Ratcliffe with Gabby Logan at the London Marathon (BBC)

Gary Neville (Sky Sports)

Weekend Edition Apr 20, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents...

A Sports Agents exclusive - Mark & Gabby had a first-look at an independent report into diversity at the senior levels of sport across every major National Governing Body in UK - Sporting Equals Chief executive Arun Kang joined them in the studio to unpack the findings...

Former Lioness Eni Aluko then reflected on her own experiences - after becoming the first black woman in Italy to own a football club.

Plus, how damaging were Manchester City & Arsenal's Champions League exits for English football's chances of a fifth qualifying spot in next season's competition?

And after Lord Seb Coe announced he had chaired the first meeting of The Old Trafford Regeneration taskforce - Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham sat down with Mark to talk about public money, opportunity and London 2012.

Here's some of our favourite bits - new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Have English clubs blown race for 5th Champions League spot? Apr 18, 2024

After holders Man City & Premier League rivals Arsenal were both dumped out of the Champions League quarter-finals, The Sports Agents assess PL hopes of a 5th place in Europe's elite club competition for next season...

Gabby & Mark are then joined by the Athletic's Adam Crafton for more on PSG's growing optimism, Mbappe's date with destiny (Real Madrid) and if European matches could finally be heading to US.

And with the first meeting held over the regeneration of Old Trafford, we'll also hear from an exclusive interview with the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham - part of the taskforce - and the comparisons he makes with the London Olympics from 2012.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb & Gabriel Radus

Video Producers: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Exclusive: Is UK sport still too white? Apr 16, 2024

Today, a Sports Agents Exclusive as Gabby & Mark reveal the findings of a report into race representation at senior level of UK sport.

Sporting Equals Chief executive Arun Kang sat down with us to discuss the findings of its annual Racial Equality Index and what lessons need to be learned.

Plus, former Lioness Eni Aluko joined The Sports Agents in studio, to chat about her own experience as Italy’s first black female football club owner and to reflect on women’s safety in the men’s game - and online.

And later, more from Mark’s weekend at Augusta.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producers: David Domb & Rory Symon

Video Producer: Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Rory Symon

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Weekend Edition Apr 13, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents...

An array of stardust as the likes of legendary jockeyAP McCoy and Team GB icon Denise Lewis joined Gabby & Mark on the podcast.

Is your Premier League club trying to kill off season tickets and is Everton's latest points deduction fair?

Does Seb Coe deserve credit for announcing prize money will be paid to Athletes who win gold at the Olympics - and after terror threats at Champions League games - how will Paris ensure fan safety at the Games this summer?

All this and much more on the Sports Agents over the last seven days.

Here's a little flavour of some of the highlights...

AP McCoy on The Grand National, winning at all costs & Arsenal Apr 12, 2024

As promised, a bonus episode featuring the full interview with Sir AP McCoy on the eve of 2024 Grand National at Aintree - a sporting institution with a global audience.

Gabby Logan sits down with the most successful jump jockey in history of National Hunt racing to talk about 'the people's race', the extreme sacrifices it took to win and his beloved Arsenal's chances of getting through their Champions League quarter final second-leg against Bayern Munich.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Are the Paris Olympics safe? Apr 11, 2024

Cash for Olympic gold... A step in the right direction or sacrilege? The Sports Agents are joined by Olympic icon Denise Lewis to discuss an historic break from Athletic tradition.

And after reflecting on the mid-week Champions League quarter-final magic - amid terror threats - Gabby and Mark also explore how Paris will be trying to make the Games safe for fans this summer.

Plus, Mark's live from Augusta at 5am on the first day of The Masters, Gabby's caught up with legendary jump jockey AP McCoy ahead of Saturday's Grand National and more...

Additional Guests: Graham Wettone - Stadium policing commentator

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producers: Rory Symon & Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Clips:

Lord Seb Coe (ITV News)

Are Premier League clubs trying to kill off your Season Ticket? Apr 09, 2024

Today, The Sports Agents takes a closer look at a worrying trend - across the Premier League - after clubs announced more price hikes for next season...

The Athletic's Jack Pitt-Brooke explains why Spurs are stopping concessions for OAP's, Daniel Levy's bonuses and the global demand for tickets.

Daniel Bowdler, from City Matters - Man City's official fan engagement programme - explains why protests and boycotts can still make a real difference.

Plus, Gabby & Mark reflect on Monday's news of a second points deduction for Everton and find out who-dragged-who across the finish line as Gabby and her daughter ran the London Landmarks half marathon!

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producers: Rory Symon & Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Weekend Edition Apr 06, 2024

This week on The Sports Agents, your questions for Gabby & Mark on everything from Olympics predictions, to how the panel on Match of the Day is selected!

Plus, Sky Sports NFL analyst Phoebe Schecter on Louis Rees-Zammit's chances of becoming a regular starter for the reigning Super Bowl champs, after he made the switch from Rugby to NFL.

And a closer look at the 'fractured' state of Golf - a week away from The Masters - with English pros Richard Bland and Laurie Canter on the reality of playing on the controversial breakaway LIV Golf tour.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

The Masters: Is LIV Golf actually working? Apr 04, 2024

A week out from The Masters, Gabby & Mark reflect on the state of Golf - a sport at war - fractured in recent years by the Saudi-backed LIV tour...

The Sports Agents are joined by pro golfers Richard Bland - who at age 48 became the oldest first-time winner on the European Tour - and Laurie Canter, who plays on both The European and LIV tours - for insight into the reality for players outside the Top 20.

BBC Golf correspondent Iain Carter also helps to explain how the sport was ripped apart and why the tours must find a way to reunite the best players in the world.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producers: Rory Symon & Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Q&A Special: Will 'Rees-Lightning' make it in NFL? Apr 02, 2024

To mark our first month of shows, The Sports Agents answer your questions on everything from Olympics predictions to how the pundits on MOTD are decided!

Gabby & Mark also check in with Sky Sports' NFL analyst, Phoebe Schecter, to explore Louis Rees-Zammit's chances of making it in the NFL, after the former Welsh Rugby star was signed by reigning Super Bowl Champions, The Kansas City Chiefs.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producers: Rory Symon & Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

(Easter) Weekend Edition Mar 30, 2024

This week, The Sports Agents dug into why Arsenal are still in a league of their own when it comes to the commercial success of their Women's team, how Gabby became 'obsessed' with Andy Murray and if Gareth Southgate would be a perfect fit for Man United's new owners?

And to keep you going over the extended Easter weekend Gabby & Mark also found out all about Corinthians FC - one of the finest teams in English football history, that you've probably never heard of!

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Could Southgate handle 'impossible' Man United job? Mar 28, 2024

Today, The Sports Agents discuss the story that simply won't go away - will England manager Gareth Southgate replace Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford, after the Euros this summer?

Gabby & Mark are joined by The Telegraph's James Ducker to explore his links to the owners, INEOS 'best of British' blueprint, Southgate's tactical identity and track-record of lead the sort of cultural reset Man United may still need.

And later, Director Helen Tither and Corinthians FC legend Monica Curran join the show to talk about Corinthians: We Were the Champions - and crowdfunding for a documentary about one of the finest football teams - who actually played during the ban on Women's football in the UK.

... Which leads perfectly into an appreciation of Man City and former England captain Steph Houghton - who has announced she'll be retiring at the end of the season.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producers: Rory Symon & Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Clips:

Steph Houghton (speaking to Manchester City)

How Arsenal cracked the WSL code Mar 26, 2024

Today, The Sports Agents took a closer look at the Women's Super League and Arsenal's monumental commercial success story - despite surrendering their crown to Emma Hayes' Chelsea, on the pitch...

How have the club's ticket strategy, a 'one-club' mentality and history made them the gold-standard for English football

Chelsea's commerical director Zara Al-Kudcy and The Guardian's Suzy Wrack join Gabby & Mark to reflect on lessons from the continent, salary caps, tribalism and avoiding the financial pitfalls we've seen in the men's game.

And the morning after the Sports Journalism Awards (and gongs for almost everyone on the show 👀) Gabby wants reflect on victory and near-misses and talk about her Andy Murray obsession... while he's still playing.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producers: Rory Symon & Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Clips:

Andy Murray (sky sports tennis)

The Sports Agents: Weekend Edition Mar 23, 2024

This week, The Sports Agents took a closer look at the state of Rugby Union, reflected on Nottingham Forest becoming the latest Premier League club to suffer a points deduction, as well as, the infamous story of one, Ali Dia...

On Tuesday, Andy Burnham - Greater Manchester Mayor and furious Everton fan - certainly didn't hold back when discussing why the Premier League needs an independent regulator.

Top comedians Dara O'Briain and Josh Widdicombe were then on hand to talk about their six-part podcast series exploring the phenomenon of Ali Dia’s overnight rise to the Premier League – for 53 minutes.

Then on Thursday, it was Rugby Union under the microscope as Courtney Lawes, Louis Rees-Zammit, Premiership CEO Simon Massie-Taylor and Wales legend Sam Warburton joined Gabby & Mark to debate the biggest threats to Rugby's future.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon.

RUGBY UNION SPECIAL: Crisis or crossroads? Mar 21, 2024

Just a few days on from a brilliant Six Nations, it feels like the sport is at a crossroads...

With potential superstars like Louis Rees-Zammit switching to the NFL, casual fans are alienated by a complex game that fails to celebrate its own physicality amid wider questions relating to how 'safe' the sport actually is to play.

The Sports Agents are joined by a stellar cast of special guests including Louis Rees-Zammit from his Miami training camp, Sam Warburton, Courtney Lawes and Premiership Chief Executive Simon Massie-Taylor, to find out how the sport can navigate the biggest challenges it faces today.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producers: Rory Symon & Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Will the Premier League table be decided in court? Mar 19, 2024

After Nottingham Forest's 4-point deduction on Monday, Gabby & Mark examine the defiant statements and discuss the likelihood of a final Premier League table that won't be decided by the end of the season...

And after a football governance bill began its passage through parliament earlier today - has the Premier League proven it cannot govern itself?

Plus, comedians Dara O'Briain and Josh Widdicombe joins The Sports Agents to talk about their brand-new Global original podcast series - 53 minutes - all about Ali Dia and one of the greatest mysteries in Premier League history!

And as promised, you can check out last week's sensational interview with boxing supremo Eddie Hearn in full here

Additional Guests: Prof. Rob Wilson (UCFB)

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producers: Rory Symon & Sam Trudgill

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

The Sports Agents: Weekend Edition Mar 16, 2024

This week, The Sports Agents were invited to the head offices of 'The Enhanced Games' to interview President Aron D'Souza - who wants to put on an Olympic-style event where all the athletes are permitted (even encouraged) to dope... Don't forget your popcorn for this one!

Then on Thursday, Gabby & Mark were joined by boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, to discuss the role the sport is playing in Saudi 'sportswashing'.

Plus, why owners of football clubs can't seem to stop at buying just one, and why Liverpool are following suit?

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon.

Eddie Hearn on AJ v Fury & Saudi 'progress' Mar 14, 2024

Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn joins The Sports Agents, in studio, to reflect on the significance of Anthony Joshua's win in Saudi Arabia last weekend. Why an all-British undisputed heavyweight super-fight between AJ and Tyson Fury could be staged at Wembley and signs of progress he's seen at grass-roots level in the Kingdom... (21:30)

But we begin with former sporting director Michael Edwards' return to Liverpool - tasked with not only replacing Jurgen Klopp but finding another football club to add to the owners portfolio, as Liverpool become the latest Premier League side to explore 'multi-club ownership'.

Gabby & Mark are joined by Simon Van Kerckhoven - who helped Man City's owners acquire a Belgian club in 2020 - to discuss the potential post-Brexit benefits, financial fair play loopholes and more.

Plus, The News Agents' Jon Sopel stops by to fill us in on a remarkable story that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has approached legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers about serving as his running mate on an independent presidential ticket!

Additional Guests: Simon Van Kerckhoven

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producers: Rory Symon & Arvind Badewal

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Clips:

Anthony Joshua (Sky Sports)

Should Olympic athletes be allowed to dope? Mar 12, 2024

The 'Enhanced Games', as you've probably heard by now, promises a union of sport and science - where doping is not just allowed but actively encouraged.

Today, the organisation's President, Dr Aron D'Souza, invited The Sports Agents to Enhanced HQ for an exclusive interview, and to discuss the future of the sport... Don't forget your popcorn.

And later, Gabby & Mark speak to the Chief Executive of the Jockey Club, Nevin Truesdale, about tackling horse-racing's image problem on day one of Cheltenham.

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producers: Rory Symon & Arvind Badewal

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Clips:

Lord Seb Coe (Sky Sports)

Ben Johnson (Archive)

Joshua vs Ngannou & How Saudi Arabia became the new home of Heavyweight Boxing Mar 07, 2024

Anthony Joshua is seemingly one fight away from being either firmly back in the heavyweight title picture... or being finished.

The man standing in his way, is an MMA fighter - Francis Ngannou.

Former cruiserweight world champion, Johnny Nelson joins The Sports Agents to discuss the risk v the rewards and why more fighters are switching codes.

And as Saudi Arabia prepares to host yet another elite heavyweight bout - has the Kingdom become the 'new home' of boxing's blue-riband division.

And Gabby & Mark discuss the conflict all fans face between dream fights and human rights.

Additional Guests: Sarah Shephard - The Athletic

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producer: Arvind Badewal

Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Clips:

Anthony Joshua (Sky Sports)

The Christian Horner scandal - is Red Bull about to implode? Mar 05, 2024

The Christian Horner scandal has dominated the headlines in Formula 1 and beyond over the past week. So on today's debut episode of The Sports Agents Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman discuss how the allegations of inappropriate behaviour have impacted Red Bull Racing and what's really going on behind the scenes in formula 1?

Should Christian Horner be considering his future? And could this lead to a more competitive season on the track?

Later in the show they turn their attention to the Premier League and Manchester City's Phil Foden. Is he the perfect example of a club nurturing academy talent?

Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides

Producer: David Domb

Video Producer: Arvind Badewal

Social Media Producer: Laura FitzPatrick

Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network

Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global

You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".

Clips:

Christian Horner - Drive to Survive (Netflix)

Christian Horner - Sky F1

Pep Guardiola - Sky Sports

Phil Foden - Sky Sports