With the 2023 Women's World Cup kicking off this Thursday, we look at who are the most likely to challenge the USA in their pursuit of a third consecutive title. Are Sarina Wiegman's injured Lionesses up to the challenge? This time around, the tournament has expanded to 32 teams with the hosting shared between Australia and New Zealand. We examine the pros and cons of having a tournament that is double the size of the 2011 competition.   For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. Also be sure to read Terry's Women's World Cup preview on our blog, which should prove very helpful when tackling our Sound of Football Women's World Cup quiz.pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_539.mp3

With the 2023 Women's World Cup kicking off this Thursday, we look at who are the most likely to challenge the USA in their pursuit of a third consecutive title. Are Sarina Wiegman's injured Lionesses up to the challenge? This time around, the tournament has expanded to 32 teams with the hosting shared between Australia and New Zealand. We examine the pros and cons of having a tournament that is double the size of the 2011 competition. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/07/show-notes-podcast-539.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. Also be sure to <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/07/womens-world-cup-preview-can-anyone.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">read Terry's Women's World Cup preview</a> on our blog, which should prove very helpful when tackling our <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/07/sound-of-football-WWC23-quiz.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sound of Football Women's World Cup quiz</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_539.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_539.mp3</a>

Sound of Football Podcast 539 - Women's World Cup 2023 preview

The three EFL play-off finals this weekend brought all the usual drama, triumph and heartache. In our final podcast of the season we discuss if something similar to the play-offs could ever be introduced into the Premier League for European qualification or even the title itself. We also look back on the season - who did well and who would rather forget 2022/23 ever happened - and then look ahead to next season and how those teams relegated from the top flight will fare in the Championship.  For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog.pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_538.mp3

The three EFL play-off finals this weekend brought all the usual drama, triumph and heartache. In our final podcast of the season we discuss if something similar to the play-offs could ever be introduced into the Premier League for European qualification or even the title itself. We also look back on the season - who did well and who would rather forget 2022/23 ever happened - and then look ahead to next season and how those teams relegated from the top flight will fare in the Championship. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/05/show-notes-podcast-538.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_538.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_538.mp3</a>

Sound of Football Podcast 538 - Winners and losers

Manchester City are Premier League champions, again. And over the next couple of weeks they could also become holders of the FA Cup and champions of Europe - emulating the achievement of Sir Alex Ferguson's United side of 1998/99. In addition to discussing City's Champion League final against Inter, we also look at the other European finals. Jose Mourinho's Roma are the latest to try to stop Sevilla winning another Europa League, and David Moyes leads his West Ham side against Fiorentina in the Conference League final. Terry also gives us a round up of the situation in Germany going into the final round of Bundesliga games. Dortmund need just to win at home against Mainz to prise the Bundesliga shield out of the hands of Bayern for the first time since they last won it in 2012.  For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_537.mp3

Manchester City are Premier League champions, again. And over the next couple of weeks they could also become holders of the FA Cup and champions of Europe - emulating the achievement of Sir Alex Ferguson's United side of 1998/99. In addition to discussing City's Champion League final against Inter, we also look at the other European finals. Jose Mourinho's Roma are the latest to try to stop Sevilla winning another Europa League, and David Moyes leads his West Ham side against Fiorentina in the Conference League final. Terry also gives us a round up of the situation in Germany going into the final round of Bundesliga games. Dortmund need just to win at home against Mainz to prise the Bundesliga shield out of the hands of Bayern for the first time since they last won it in 2012. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/05/show-notes-podcast-537.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_537.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_537.mp3</a>

Sound of Football Podcast 537 - City's treble chance

After a thrilling final day of the Championships, we now know the line-up for this season's Championship play-offs. Three of the sides - Luton, Coventry and Sunderland - were all playing in League One as recently as 2019. As ever, it's impossible to call.  Recorded while Everton were surpringly putting Brighton to the sword, we also discuss who we think will go going down. Can Big Sam pull off yet another great escape at Leeds? For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_536.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? This weekend sees the start of the EFL play-offs including Luton's trip to the Stadium of Light and Middlesbrough in Coventry. There's also the Women's FA Cup Final from a sold-out Wembley - can Emma Hayes's Chelsea deny Manchester United their first major trophy. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.  pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_536.mp3

After a thrilling final day of the Championships, we now know the line-up for this season's Championship play-offs. Three of the sides - Luton, Coventry and Sunderland - were all playing in League One as recently as 2019. As ever, it's impossible to call. Recorded while Everton were surpringly putting Brighton to the sword, we also discuss who we think will go going down. Can Big Sam pull off yet another great escape at Leeds? For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/05/show-notes-podcast-536.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_536.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_536.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> This weekend sees the start of the EFL play-offs including Luton's trip to the Stadium of Light and Middlesbrough in Coventry. There's also the Women's FA Cup Final from a sold-out Wembley - can Emma Hayes's Chelsea deny Manchester United their first major trophy. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_536.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_536.mp3</a>

Sound of Football Podcast 536 - Championship Play-offs 2023

How long can the Premier League's model of showing only a certain number of games live in the UK continue? With competition for subscription based services and the use of illegal streams continuing to grow - especially amongst under 35s - could the richest league in the world find itself pricing itself out of the market? What effect would that have on football as a whole?  Could the Premier League soon ditch Sky and BT Sport, or could they be the ones doing the ditching? Either way, watching football in England could be on the verge of its biggest shake up in 30 years. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_535.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? Could we see the shape of things to come with Premier League football being shown live at 3pm on a Saturday, when Man City face Sam Allardyce's Leeds. There's also the Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and Osasuna. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

How long can the Premier League's model of showing only a certain number of games live in the UK continue? With competition for subscription based services and the use of illegal streams continuing to grow - especially amongst under 35s - could the richest league in the world find itself pricing itself out of the market? What effect would that have on football as a whole? Could the Premier League soon ditch Sky and BT Sport, or could they be the ones doing the ditching? Either way, watching football in England could be on the verge of its biggest shake up in 30 years. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/05/show-notes-podcast-535.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_535.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_535.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> Could we see the shape of things to come with Premier League football being shown live at 3pm on a Saturday, when Man City face Sam Allardyce's Leeds. There's also the Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and Osasuna. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 535 - A Netflix for football

The Women's World Cup is less than three months away, England will head to Australia without their captain Leah Williamson who last week ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament of her right knee, which is likely to sideline her until the new year. With her club Arsenal also missing Ballon D'or nominees Beth Mead and Vivianne Miedema to the same injury, once again questions are being asked as to why this injury is so prevalent in the women's game.  Also this week we look at what next for Spurs after a shamoblic defeat at Newcastle that saw their interim head coach Cristian Stellini sacked, and could Sunderland end up going back up to the Premier League by accident?  For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_534.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? The games don't get easier for Spurs as they travel to Anfield for Ryan Mason's first game back as caretaker. It's also Scottish Cup semi-final weekend, and there's also the final round of games in the A-League regular season. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

The Women's World Cup is less than three months away, England will head to Australia without their captain Leah Williamson who last week ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament of her right knee, which is likely to sideline her until the new year. With her club Arsenal also missing Ballon D'or nominees Beth Mead and Vivianne Miedema to the same injury, once again questions are being asked as to why this injury is so prevalent in the women's game. Also this week we look at what next for Spurs after a shamoblic defeat at Newcastle that saw their interim head coach Cristian Stellini sacked, and could Sunderland end up going back up to the Premier League by accident? For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/04/show-notes-podcast-534.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_534.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_534.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> The games don't get easier for Spurs as they travel to Anfield for Ryan Mason's first game back as caretaker. It's also Scottish Cup semi-final weekend, and there's also the final round of games in the A-League regular season. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 534 - The ACL epidemic

According to the bean-counters at Opta, the average time the ball is in play for a Premier League match this season has fallen below 55 minutes. Is this a cause for concern or merely a reaction to the way the modern game is played? Last year, the football authorities took the decision to tackle time-wasting. In the World Cup this was evident by the amount of injury time that was added - almost 12 minutes per game in the group stage - but this policy of adding time has yet to be taken up all leagues. How much of an issue is time-wasting in the game? Is it only an issue when it's your opponents that are doing it?  For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_533.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? It's FA Cup semi-final weekend: Sheffield United have the task of trying to overcome Manchester City on Saturday, while on Sunday Brighton get the chance of taking revenge for the 1983 final defeat to Manchester United. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

According to the bean-counters at Opta, the average time the ball is in play for a Premier League match this season has fallen below 55 minutes. Is this a cause for concern or merely a reaction to the way the modern game is played? Last year, the football authorities took the decision to tackle time-wasting. In the World Cup this was evident by the amount of injury time that was added - almost 12 minutes per game in the group stage - but this policy of adding time has yet to be taken up all leagues. How much of an issue is time-wasting in the game? Is it only an issue when it's your opponents that are doing it? For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/04/show-notes-podcast-533.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_533.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_533.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> It's FA Cup semi-final weekend: Sheffield United have the task of trying to overcome Manchester City on Saturday, while on Sunday Brighton get the chance of taking revenge for the 1983 final defeat to Manchester United. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 533 - A waste of time

At a time of year when it's football that should be making the headlines, it's bizarre decisions that have dominated the narrative over the past week. Firstly we had the news that Frank Lampard was to become caretaker at Stamford Bridge - caretaker manager that is - just two months after being fired from his role at Everton. Then this weekend, we had the Premier League referee body the PGMOL having to issue yet another apology for yet another table affecting decision missed by VAR, when Brighton were on the end of a string of rough decisions in their defeat to Champions League placing rivals Spurs. At least we had the last minute heroics of a returning Ben Foster to remind us of what the game is really about. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_532.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? If you've had your fill of VAR there's plenty of Championship and Women's FA Cup action to watch, though that won't stop pundits at those games calling for it. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

At a time of year when it's football that should be making the headlines, it's bizarre decisions that have dominated the narrative over the past week. Firstly we had the news that Frank Lampard was to become caretaker at Stamford Bridge - caretaker manager that is - just two months after being fired from his role at Everton. Then this weekend, we had the Premier League referee body the PGMOL having to issue yet another apology for yet another table affecting decision missed by VAR, when Brighton were on the end of a string of rough decisions in their defeat to Champions League placing rivals Spurs. At least we had the last minute heroics of a returning Ben Foster to remind us of what the game is really about. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/04/show-notes-podcast-532.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_532.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_532.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> If you've had your fill of VAR there's plenty of Championship and Women's FA Cup action to watch, though that won't stop pundits at those games calling for it. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 532 - Frankie's shock return

Over the last week Antonio Conte, Brendan Rodgers and Graham Potter have all lost their jobs in charge of Premier League clubs.Potter's Chelsea exit was the twelfth sacking of the Premier League season. Are there underlying reasons for so many clubs changing managers this season? Is it indicative of the upheaval at the top of the table and how close things are in the bottom half? Will be there be any more before the season is done?For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog.pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_531.mp3   What's in the Weekend Boxset? It's an Easter weekend packed with football including two rounds of action away from the top flight. The top two in the Championship - Burnley and Sheffield United - and the National League - Wrexham and Notts County - face each other on Easter Monday. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

Over the last week Antonio Conte, Brendan Rodgers and Graham Potter have all lost their jobs in charge of Premier League clubs. Potter's Chelsea exit was the twelfth sacking of the Premier League season. Are there underlying reasons for so many clubs changing managers this season? Is it indicative of the upheaval at the top of the table and how close things are in the bottom half? Will be there be any more before the season is done? For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/04/show-notes-podcast-531.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_531.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_531.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> It's an Easter weekend packed with football including two rounds of action away from the top flight. The top two in the Championship - Burnley and Sheffield United - and the National League - Wrexham and Notts County - face each other on Easter Monday. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 531 - The head coach carousel 2023

Club football takes a time-out for some internationals and maybe it's not a moment too soon. This weekend saw Palace sack Patrick Vieira, Fulham get three red cards in a minute, and Antonio Conte call out the elephant in room at Spurs. Everyone clearly just needs to calm down. On this week's podcast, we discuss the incident at Old Trafford that saw Willian, Marco Silva and Aleksandar Mitrovic all see red, and the type of punishment that should be handed out in this current climate where referee abuse is almost seen as part and parcel of the game. We also hear Terry's thought on the departure of Vieira and the prospect of Roy Hodgson coming out of retirement again to save his club from relegation. We also discover who the German equivalent of Keith Hackett is. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_530.mp3

Club football takes a time-out for some internationals and maybe it's not a moment too soon. This weekend saw Palace sack Patrick Vieira, Fulham get three red cards in a minute, and Antonio Conte call out the elephant in room at Spurs. Everyone clearly just needs to calm down. On this week's podcast, we discuss the incident at Old Trafford that saw Willian, Marco Silva and Aleksandar Mitrovic all see red, and the type of punishment that should be handed out in this current climate where referee abuse is almost seen as part and parcel of the game. We also hear Terry's thought on the departure of Vieira and the prospect of Roy Hodgson coming out of retirement again to save his club from relegation. We also discover who the German equivalent of Keith Hackett is. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/03/show-notes-podcast-530.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_530.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_530.mp3</a>

Sound of Football Podcast 530 - Fulham's three card trick

Your favourite football podcast. One of the longest running independent soccer podcasts. Described by the Telegraph as quirky, funny and well-informed.

This weekend, following a mass walkout of talent over the mistreatment of Gary Lineker, BBC Sport's flagship product Match of the Day went out as just a series of unintroduced, voiceless highlights that were over and done with in just 20 minutes. For a few (mostly Tory MPs who never watch football), this was seen as an improvement but for the majority it showed the value of the context that commentators and pundits bring to our enjoyment of the game.  Writer and broadcaster Jon Driscoll returns to the podcast to discuss the modern role of football commentary. An experienced commentator himself, who better to tell us all about what world feeds really are, and what happens when you have to go "off-tube".  For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_529.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? With apologies made, the BBC have two FA Cup quarter finals to show this weekend, with commentary: City host Vincent Kompany's Burnley while Grimsby are hoping for a bit of magic when they visit Brighton. There's also the spectacle that is El Clasico. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

This weekend, following a mass walkout of talent over the mistreatment of Gary Lineker, BBC Sport's flagship product Match of the Day went out as just a series of unintroduced, voiceless highlights that were over and done with in just 20 minutes. For a few (mostly Tory MPs who never watch football), this was seen as an improvement but for the majority it showed the value of the context that commentators and pundits bring to our enjoyment of the game. Writer and broadcaster Jon Driscoll returns to the podcast to discuss the modern role of football commentary. An experienced commentator himself, who better to tell us all about what world feeds really are, and what happens when you have to go "off-tube". For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/03/show-notes-podcast-529.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_529.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_529.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> With apologies made, the BBC have two FA Cup quarter finals to show this weekend, with commentary: City host Vincent Kompany's Burnley while Grimsby are hoping for a bit of magic when they visit Brighton. There's also the spectacle that is El Clasico. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 529 - Mics dropped

Ivan Toney

Brentford striker Ivan Toney faces 262 FA charges relating to betting on football matches. Is it any wonder when he wears a betting sponsor on his shirt and plays at a club that has based its recruitment on data models for gamblers?  Charging a player for gambling in a sport that appears to welcome the practice so readily seems to many to be hypocritical, but are they two separate matters? From in-game betting to live analytics, gambling has become integral to many people's enjoyment of the game. So, how many more Ivan Toney's are out there? For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_528.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? It's the Revierderby on Saturday with the two Ruhr giants in fine form. There's also the spectacle of Nigel Pearson v Mick McCarthy facing each other in the Championship. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

Brentford striker Ivan Toney faces 262 FA charges relating to betting on football matches. Is it any wonder when he wears a betting sponsor on his shirt and plays at a club that has based its recruitment on data models for gamblers? Charging a player for gambling in a sport that appears to welcome the practice so readily seems to many to be hypocritical, but are they two separate matters? From in-game betting to live analytics, gambling has become integral to many people's enjoyment of the game. So, how many more Ivan Toney's are out there? For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/03/show-notes-podcast-528.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_528.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_528.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> It's the Revierderby on Saturday with the two Ruhr giants in fine form. There's also the spectacle of Nigel Pearson v Mick McCarthy facing each other in the Championship. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 528 - Ivan Toney's penalty

The Government's White Paper on football governance is finally here. While it sets out plans to introduce an independent regulator for the five highest divisions in English football, many of the recommendations from the fan-led review aren't included.  The introduction of a regulator to a sport that has let its fans down so much in recent years should be welcomed, but what are the potential pitfalls that lie ahead? The Premier League chief Richard Masters has already warned that, without the right direction, the new legislation could have “unintended consequences”. Has the Premier League or its main stakeholders already thought up a few consequences of their own?  For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_527.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? After enjoying their day out Wembley last weekend, the League Cup finalists face tough Premier League tests with Newcastle heading to the Etihad while Manchester United face Liverpool. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

The <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/a-sustainable-future-reforming-club-football-governance" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Government's White Paper on football governance</a> is finally here. While it sets out plans to introduce an independent regulator for the five highest divisions in English football, many of the recommendations from the fan-led review aren't included. The introduction of a regulator to a sport that has let its fans down so much in recent years should be welcomed, but what are the potential pitfalls that lie ahead? The Premier League chief Richard Masters has already warned that, without the right direction, the new legislation could have “unintended consequences”. Has the Premier League or its main stakeholders already thought up a few consequences of their own? For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/02/show-notes-podcast-527.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_527.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_527.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> After enjoying their day out Wembley last weekend, the League Cup finalists face tough Premier League tests with Newcastle heading to the Etihad while Manchester United face Liverpool. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 527 - The good, the bad and the independent

Last week, the body that controls refereeing in the Premier League, the PGMOL, parted company with Lee Mason, one of only three permananet VARs. His dismissal followed an incident where he incorrectly allowed a goal to stand in a potentially title affecting result involving Arsenal. It wasn't his first howler of the season (even just against Arsenal) but what precedent has been set by firing him?  As more technology is introduced, like the semi-automated VAR for offside used in the World Cup, how far are we from the point where AI can take over from human referees? With the advances currently being made in AI, are we closer to that point than we think? ChatGPT joins us to discuss.  For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_526.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? Talk of a potential Qatari takeover of Manchester United will dominate this Sunday's EFL Cup final against Saudi-owned Newcastle. Graham Potter faces another stern test as his Chelsea side visit Tottenham. Meanwhile on the continent, there's the Madrid derby, and Marseille have the chance to close the gap at the top to two points when they host PSG. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

Last week, the body that controls refereeing in the Premier League, the PGMOL, parted company with Lee Mason, one of only three permananet VARs. His dismissal followed an incident where he incorrectly allowed a goal to stand in a potentially title affecting result involving Arsenal. It wasn't his first howler of the season (even just against Arsenal) but what precedent has been set by firing him? As more technology is introduced, like the semi-automated VAR for offside used in the World Cup, how far are we from the point where AI can take over from human referees? With the advances currently being made in AI, are we closer to that point than we think? ChatGPT joins us to discuss. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/02/show-notes-podcast-526.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_526.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_526.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> Talk of a potential Qatari takeover of Manchester United will dominate this Sunday's EFL Cup final against Saudi-owned Newcastle. Graham Potter faces another stern test as his Chelsea side visit Tottenham. Meanwhile on the continent, there's the Madrid derby, and Marseille have the chance to close the gap at the top to two points when they host PSG. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 526 - Giving referees their cards

It's been a week since the Premier League announced that Manchester City are to face over 100 charges of financial rule breaking. The club's owners have settled in for a long seige, with their loyal supporters taking to the battlements. Beyond the booing of the Premier League anthem and the baffling banners in support of the club's lawyer on the case, is there substance to arguments put out by City fans that this whole thing is a fit-up by the other clubs in the Premier League because they're either jealous, greedy, bigoted or mix of all the above?  For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_525.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? Can Arsenal get their title chase back on track against their former head coach Unai Emery at Villa Park. Elsewhere, the Lionesses are in action in the Arnold Clark Cup, there's a derby in Melbourne and in Italy there's the exciting prospect of Silvio Berlusconi's Monza hosting his beloved AC Milan. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.  pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_525.mp3

It's been a week since the Premier League announced that Manchester City are to face over 100 charges of financial rule breaking. The club's owners have settled in for a long seige, with their loyal supporters taking to the battlements. Beyond the booing of the Premier League anthem and the baffling banners in support of the club's lawyer on the case, is there substance to arguments put out by City fans that this whole thing is a fit-up by the other clubs in the Premier League because they're either jealous, greedy, bigoted or mix of all the above? For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/02/show-notes-podcast-525.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_525.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_525.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> Can Arsenal get their title chase back on track against their former head coach Unai Emery at Villa Park. Elsewhere, the Lionesses are in action in the Arnold Clark Cup, there's a derby in Melbourne and in Italy there's the exciting prospect of Silvio Berlusconi's Monza hosting his beloved AC Milan. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_525.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_525.mp3</a>

Sound of Football Podcast 525 - Vex and the City

The Premier League has charged Manchester City with over 100 breaches of its financial rules. Will the charges stick or will City walk away with nothing more than a slapped wrist as they did before when UEFA tried to take them on? What are the possible long-term ramifications of this action? Will the generous owners of the club stick around if their team are sanctioned heavily by points deductions, transfer embargoes, relegation or even the removal of their titles and honours? Who among the 19 other clubs in the English top flight are driving this on? Could this also be a pre-emptive action to warn clubs like Chelsea and Newcastle against excessive spending in the future?  For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_524.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? Expect the City faithful to make their feelings felt when they take on Villa at the Etihad on Sunday. There's also the second part of a double-header between Manchester United and now managerless Leeds. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

The Premier League has charged Manchester City with over 100 breaches of its financial rules. Will the charges stick or will City walk away with nothing more than a slapped wrist as they did before when UEFA tried to take them on? What are the possible long-term ramifications of this action? Will the generous owners of the club stick around if their team are sanctioned heavily by points deductions, transfer embargoes, relegation or even the removal of their titles and honours? Who among the 19 other clubs in the English top flight are driving this on? Could this also be a pre-emptive action to warn clubs like Chelsea and Newcastle against excessive spending in the future? For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/02/show-notes-podcast-524.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_524.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_524.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> Expect the City faithful to make their feelings felt when they take on Villa at the Etihad on Sunday. There's also the second part of a double-header between Manchester United and now managerless Leeds. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 524 - Citizens' arrest

For those taking part in Dry January, the end of the first month of the year offers an opportunity to indulge their worrying cravings, but for football teams this is when they have to go cold turkey from their addiction to spending money. Time is fast running out for clubs to hijack deals, shift players they don't need, or to overpay Brighton for their next big thing- or in Chelsea's case attempt to do all three. Beyond the vulgarity of the January money storm, this time of year also has the far more wholesome drama of the 4th round of the FA Cup. We have a bit of chat about that, as well give our thoughts on Sean Dyche's appointment as Everton manager. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_523.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? After the dust settles from the closing of the transfer window it could be a very different Chelsea side that takes to the field against local rivals Fulham on Friday night. Meanwhile Sean Dyche has a tough return to the Premier League as his Everton side host Premier League leaders Arsenal. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

For those taking part in Dry January, the end of the first month of the year offers an opportunity to indulge their worrying cravings, but for football teams this is when they have to go cold turkey from their addiction to spending money. Time is fast running out for clubs to hijack deals, shift players they don't need, or to overpay Brighton for their next big thing- or in Chelsea's case attempt to do all three. Beyond the vulgarity of the January money storm, this time of year also has the far more wholesome drama of the 4th round of the FA Cup. We have a bit of chat about that, as well give our thoughts on Sean Dyche's appointment as Everton manager. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/01/show-notes-podcast-523.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_523.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_523.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> After the dust settles from the closing of the transfer window it could be a very different Chelsea side that takes to the field against local rivals Fulham on Friday night. Meanwhile Sean Dyche has a tough return to the Premier League as his Everton side host Premier League leaders Arsenal. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 523 - January jonesing

Frank Lampard has been shown the door at Everton after a dismal 38 games in charge. While he has failed to impress at what should be seen as one of the biggest jobs in English football, his profile in the game is huge and he has many allies in the media - which for many means that he's likely to land on his feet again and be high on the list for any upcoming vacancies. Does he need to go back to school or set his sights a little lower for a while to gain the experience for a long and successful career in management? We also discuss some of the key points from the weekend: Arsenal showing their title credentials, the Bundesliga returning with all the goals and the embarrassing spectacle of Sunday's WSL game between Chelsea and Liverpool being called off because of a frozen pitch after six minutes of play.   For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_522.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? This weekend we're packing out the Boxset with the FA Cup 4th round that starts on Friday night with the top two in the Premier League Man City v Arsenal. Liverpool meanwhile have to face their bogey team, Brighton. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

Frank Lampard has been shown the door at Everton after a dismal 38 games in charge. While he has failed to impress at what should be seen as one of the biggest jobs in English football, his profile in the game is huge and he has many allies in the media - which for many means that he's likely to land on his feet again and be high on the list for any upcoming vacancies. Does he need to go back to school or set his sights a little lower for a while to gain the experience for a long and successful career in management? We also discuss some of the key points from the weekend: Arsenal showing their title credentials, the Bundesliga returning with all the goals and the embarrassing spectacle of Sunday's WSL game between Chelsea and Liverpool being called off because of a frozen pitch after six minutes of play. For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/01/show-notes-podcast-522.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_522.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_522.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> This weekend we're packing out the Boxset with the FA Cup 4th round that starts on Friday night with the top two in the Premier League Man City v Arsenal. Liverpool meanwhile have to face their bogey team, Brighton. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 522 - Frankie's toffee hammer

This weekend, Graham was one of 46,000 attending the Emirates to watch Arsenal take on Chelsea in the Women's Super League. As numbers like this start to become common place, how long will it be before the ground is made available to be their permanent home? In the game itself, it took a late Sam Kerr equaliser to prevent Arsenal from finishing the weekend on top of both the WSL and the Premier League. Things are going smoothly for a club that in recent years has been more known for chaos, but will it last?  For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog. pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_521.mp3    What's in the Weekend Boxset? As newly made favourites for the Premier League title, Arsenal face the only side to beat them in the league this season, Manchester United, who themselves are emerging as contenders for the crown. There's also the return of the Bundesliga as Leipzig host Bayern. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.

This weekend, Graham was one of 46,000 attending the Emirates to watch Arsenal take on Chelsea in the Women's Super League. As numbers like this start to become common place, how long will it be before the ground is made available to be their permanent home? In the game itself, it took a late Sam Kerr equaliser to prevent Arsenal from finishing the weekend on top of both the WSL and the Premier League. Things are going smoothly for a club that in recent years has been more known for chaos, but will it last? For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/01/show-notes-podcast-521.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_521.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_521.mp3</a> <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> As newly made favourites for the Premier League title, Arsenal face the only side to beat them in the league this season, Manchester United, who themselves are emerging as contenders for the crown. There's also the return of the Bundesliga as Leipzig host Bayern. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today.

Sound of Football Podcast 521 - Welcome home

Back in 2015, Cristiano Ronaldo said on an English chat show that he wouldn't play in a league like that of Qatar or of the US, and that the end of his career would have dignity. Of course we all say things when we're an impetuous 30 year old that we later reconsider when we're approaching 38, but his move to Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr appears to have closed the meaningful part of his playing career. Still, he does get to play in a Champions League. Also on this week's podcast we discuss the Bundesliga's decision to stick with its regular winter break while the rest of Europe is back in thrilling action. And with the transfer window now open, are Real poised to snatch Jude Bellingham from the clutches of his many English suitors?  For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, check out the Show Notes on our blog.  What's in the Weekend Boxset? While the Bundesliga is still on its winter break there are some of Europe's biggest local derbies this weekend - in Manchester, North London, Lisbon and the Basque Country. There are also crunch games in Serie A and the WSL. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by signing up to the Weekend Boxset today.  pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_520.mp3

Back in 2015, Cristiano Ronaldo said on an English chat show that he wouldn't play in a league like that of Qatar or of the US, and that the end of his career would have dignity. Of course we all say things when we're an impetuous 30 year old that we later reconsider when we're approaching 38, but his move to Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr appears to have closed the meaningful part of his playing career. Still, he does get to play in a Champions League. Also on this week's podcast we discuss the Bundesliga's decision to stick with its regular winter break while the rest of Europe is back in thrilling action. And with the transfer window now open, are Real poised to snatch Jude Bellingham from the clutches of his many English suitors? For more information on the podcast and links related to the subjects discussed, <a href="https://blog.sofpodcast.com/2023/01/show-notes-podcast-520.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out the Show Notes on our blog</a>. <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2> What's in the Weekend Boxset?</h2> While the Bundesliga is still on its winter break there are some of Europe's biggest local derbies this weekend - in Manchester, North London, Lisbon and the Basque Country. There are also crunch games in Serie A and the WSL. Get our FREE weekly newsletter in your email by <a href="https://www.sofpodcast.com/p/weekend-boxset.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up to the Weekend Boxset</a> today. <a href="http://pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_520.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pods.sofpodcast.com/sofpodcast_520.mp3</a>

Sound of Football Podcast 520 - Out with the old

Just intelligent commentary on aspects of football seldom heard or even thought by most media types. Enjoyable slightly arch and worth ruminating on afterwards. Fans but not fanatics. Always on top of my chart.

Perspective Not Narrative

Your most recent episode made me check to make sure I&#39;ve given you a 5-star review. Turns out that I haven&#39;t! Love the pod. Keep up the great work.

Thought I did this a while ago...

The Sound of Football

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