Football Daily

Hello Football Daily listeners... we'd like to introduce you to Game's Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast.In this episode, you'll get some of the best bits of the series so far, as Steve Bracknall takes a deep dive into the murky world of the modern game whilst desperately trying to hold his ramshackle Sunday league team together. Listen weekly to Game's Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast on BBC Sounds or watch on YouTube.

16/02/2026 • 26:26

David James and Luke Edwards join Rick Edwards as Mansfield Town take down Burnley and the lack of VAR puts referees under the spotlight.League One Mansfield were the big winners and VAR was the main talking point at Villa Park as Newcastle beat Aston Villa. Plus protests for West Ham, Leeds win on penalties and Wolves tackle a mudbath in Cleethorpes.    TIME CODES: 3:53 Louis Reed's freekick to win it for Mansfield 9:05 Will Scott Parker be the next Premier League manager to get the sack? 11:25 The financial windfall for Mansfield 14:10 Three refereeing errors at the Villa V Newcastle match 24:31 Eddie Howe's thoughts on the decisions that went against his team 28:34 West Ham survive a scare against Burton Albion 31:01 Protests against the West Ham ownership 33:14 Leeds win on penalties

15/02/2026 • 37:32

In this week’s edition of the Football Interview, Kelly Somers speaks to Portugal Manager Roberto Martinez. They discuss his journey into football, from becoming a player at Real Zaragoza and moving over to play in the UK not knowing a word of English, to managing Wigan Athletic to their historic FA Cup win against Manchester City in 2013. They also get into what it's like managing at an international level with the golden generation of Belgium and how he takes Portugal into the World Cup this summer with a legend in Cristiano Ronaldo.5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1215 Burton v West Ham, Sat 1745 Villa v Newcastle, Sat 2000 Liverpool v Brighton, Sun 1200 Birmingham v Leeds, Sun 1330 Grimsby v Wolves, Sun 1630 Rangers v Hearts, Mon 1930 Macclesfield v Brentford.

14/02/2026 • 14:51

John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball answer listener questions on football commentary. From the most unusual commentary positions to the best landmarks visible from the press box. And what exactly is the difference between radio and television commentary? Questions always welcome on WhatsApp voicenotes to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk00:40 FAQs, 04:10 Unusual commentary positions, 13:10 Commentating in a box, 17:00 Famous visible landmarks, 19:55 FA Cup commentaries this weekend, 22:30 Radio vs TV commentary, 29:20 Toughest sport to commentate on, 33:25 How is it decided who does which sport? 37:55 What makes a good summariser? 43:30 Have you ever lost your composure? 50:20 Feeling self-conscious on camera, 52:30 Keeping the passion and excitement.5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Fri 1945 Hull v Chelsea, Sat 1215 Burton v West Ham, Sat 1745 Villa v Newcastle, Sat 2000 Liverpool v Brighton, Sun 1200 Birmingham v Leeds, Sun 1330 Grimsby v Wolves, Sun 1630 Rangers v Hearts, Mon 1930 Macclesfield v Brentford, Wed 1745 Qarabag v Newcastle.

13/02/2026 • 59:31

Steve Crossman is joined by ESPN’s Julien Laurens, Rafa Honegstein and, The Athletic’s James Horncastle. The team discuss Roberto De Zerbi’s departure from Marseille after less than two years in charge of the French side. The Italian leaves them 4th in Ligue 1, 12 points off leaders PSG who thrashed them 5-0 in De Zerbi’s last game and, out of the Champions League.Could he be a good fit for the vacant job at Tottenham? Meanwhile Marseille are now being linked with former Newcastle defender Habib Beye, who was recently sacked by Stade Rennais.Staying in France and former Arsenal and Manchester City defender Gaël Clichy joins the team just over a month into his first managerial job with third division Caen. The club is owned by Kylian Mbappe who brought a majority stake in the club in 2024.TIME CODES 00:00 De Zerbi departs Marseille 20:00 Gael Clichy has his first managerial job5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Fri 1945 Hull v Chelsea, Sat 1215 Burton v West Ham, Sat 1745 Villa v Newcastle, Sat 2000 Liverpool v Brighton, Sun 1200 Birmingham v Leeds, Sun 1330 Grimsby v Wolves, Sun 1630 Rangers v Hearts, Mon 1930 Macclesfield v Brentford.

13/02/2026 • 39:18

England manager Thomas Tuchel has extended his contract with the national team to beyond Euro 2028. Eleanor Oldroyd is joined by John Murray and Michael Brown as they discuss the potential reasons behind the extension and the implications it has for England. Nottingham Forest are closing in on their fourth manager of the season in Vitor Pereira, following the departure of Sean Dyche. BBC Sport's Midlands Football Reporter Nick Mashiter joins Eleanor Oldroyd to talk about the latest on goings at the City Ground.TIME CODES: 00:00 Thomas Tuchel extends contract with England 13:20 Nottingham Forest searching for a new manager5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Fri 1945 Hull v Chelsea, Sat 1215 Burton v West Ham, Sat 1745 Villa v Newcastle, Sat 2000 Liverpool v Brighton, Sun 1200 Birmingham v Leeds, Sun 1330 Grimsby v Wolves, Sun 1630 Rangers v Hearts, Mon 1930 Macclesfield v Brentford.

12/02/2026 • 26:57

Steph Houghton, Nedum Onuoha and Phil Jagielka join Steve Crossman as the pressure increases on Sean Dyche at Nottingham Forest.Forest failed to beat Wolves at the City Ground, with just 6 points separating West Ham in 18th and Leeds in 15th.Burnley came back from 2 goals down to beat Crystal Palace 3-2.Plus Sunderland lose at home for the first time, City cruise past Fulham and James Milner equals the Premier League appearance record.TIME CODES: 0:20 Is Sean Dyche's job on the line? 2:00 Sean Dyche reacts to Nottingham Forest's draw with Wolves 10:06 Scott Parker reflects on a massive 3 points for Burnley 12:52 Tyrone Mings reflects on Aston Villa's win 14:58 James Milner equals the Premier League appearance record 17:44 Antoine Semenyo speaks after scoring his 5th goals since joining Manchester City 22:10 Arne Slot gives his verdict on Liverpool's win at Sunderland 23:42 Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain talks after his dramatic injury time winner on his Celtic debut

12/02/2026 • 26:25

Aaron Paul & Jobi McAnuff are joined by Millwall midfielder Massimo Luongo. They react to Leicester blowing a three-goal lead to lose to Southampton. What about Middlesbrough overtaking Coventry at the top? Massimo has his say on Millwall’s play-off push and reveals what Barry Bannan’s been like. And what’s Jobi going to squirrel into 72PLUS 72MINUS?02:45 Leicester blow three-goal lead vs Saints 11:55 Southampton boss Tonda Eckert interview 13:05 Best personal football comebacks 17:30 Southampton just one point off play-off places 18:35 Middlesbrough overtake Coventry at the top 21:00 The top two meet on Monday night! 22:55 Millwall getting cushty in the play-offs 27:55 Barry Bannan has made an impact 30:20 Feature interview with new Watford boss Ed Still 42:10 72PLUS 72MINUS5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Fri 1945 Hull v Chelsea, Sat 1215 Burton v West Ham, Sat 1745 Villa v Newcastle, Sat 2000 Liverpool v Brighton, Sun 1200 Birmingham v Leeds, Sun 1330 Grimsby v Wolves, Sun 1630 Rangers v Hearts, Mon 1930 Macclesfield v Brentford.

11/02/2026 • 46:26

Aaron Paul is joined by former Tottenham GK Paul Robinson and BBC Sport senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel. They discuss how the decision came about and what Spurs do next.00:40 How did decision come about? 06:20 Tottenham squad been allowed to decay? 08:55 Frank’s final interview as Spurs boss 11:30 Sympathy for Thomas Frank? 15:10 Who do Spurs go for next?5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Fri 1945 Hull v Chelsea, Sat 1215 Burton v West Ham, Sat 1745 Villa v Newcastle, Sat 2000 Liverpool v Brighton, Sun 1200 Birmingham v Leeds, Sun 1330 Grimsby v Wolves, Sun 1630 Rangers v Hearts, Mon 1930 Macclesfield v Brentford.

11/02/2026 • 20:44

Michael Brown, Ellen White and Tim Krul join Kelly Cates to react to another loss for Spurs.Could this be the end for Thomas Frank in north London?Plus Manchester United grab a late point and Chelsea throw away a two goal lead to Leeds. TIME CODES: 0:49 Senior Football Correspondent Sami Mokbel on how close Thomas Frank could be to the exit at Tottenham 8:42 Thomas Frank reacts to another home defeat   13:55 Is a point good enough for West Ham? 16:47 Is Fergie time back for Manchester United? 18:18 Liam Rosenior speaks after the 2-2 draw with Leeds 19:29 Daniel Farke reacts to a great comeback from his Leeds team

11/02/2026 • 21:11

Mark Chapman talks Premier League with Chris Sutton, The Observer’s Rory Smith and Shay Given. Get their thoughts on how Manchester City’s win at Liverpool could be pivotal in the title race. Do Newcastle’s problems go beyond Eddie Howe? Burnley are in bother – hear from Scott Parker and fan Natalie from the No Nay Never podcast. Brighton’s transfers come under scrutiny, what next for Jack Grealish after his surgery, and Chris gets a complimentary email! Emails to MNC@bbc.co.uk 01:00 Man City’s dramatic comeback win at Anfield, 05:05 Does this fix Man City’s vulnerability? 10:05 Has Haaland’s role changed? 13:40 How good is Donnarumma? 22:30 The disallowed goal – right decision? 29:40 Howe do you solve Newcastle’s problems? 43:40 Burnley in bother, 54:10 Baffling decisions at Brighton & Hove, 59:30 Complimentary email about Chris! 01:01:00 What happens next with Grealish?5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Fri 1945 Hull v Chelsea, Sat 1215 Burton v West Ham, Sat 1745 Villa v Newcastle, Sat 2000 Liverpool v Brighton, Sun 1200 Birmingham v Leeds, Sun 1330 Grimsby v Wolves, Sun 1630 Rangers v Hearts, Mon 1930 Macclesfield v Brentford.

09/02/2026 • 63:13

Former Premier League striker Clinton Morrison and the Telegraph's Luke Edwards join Aaron Paul to review the weekend's Premier League action.Manchester City come from behind to beat Liverpool in a chaotic finish at Anfield, but Arsenal remain 6 points clear at the top. Are Brighton fans turning on Fabian Hurzeler after a loss to rivals Crystal Palace? Who's most in danger of getting caught by West Ham in the relegation battle? And has any manager ever sounded as upset after a defeat as Scott Parker on Saturday?TIMECODES 0:26 - Late drama at Anfield 5:38 - Not handing the title to Arsenal just yet 15:21 - Big win for Crystal Palace, boos at Brighton 23:08 - West Ham blow relegation battle wide open 28:01 - Time running out for Scott Parker and Burnley 34:30 - Leeds beat Nottingham Forest in six-pointer 38:01 - Romero sees red again for Spurs 41:03 - Eddie Howe under pressure at Newcastle 44:33 - Brentford dreaming of Europe 46:36 - Moyes keeps Everton moving

08/02/2026 • 49:05

In this week’s edition of the Football Interview, Kelly Somers speaks to Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka. They discuss why he chose to join Sunderland in the summer and how part of the reason was down to needing a new challenge. He reflects on his time at Arsenal and the difficulty of leaving the club, how he dealt with that and his relationship with Arteta. The Swiss international also opens up about his childhood and how close he is with his brother, Taulent, who was also a professional footballer, playing more than 300 times for FC Basel.

07/02/2026 • 23:19

John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball talk football, travel & language. They look ahead to what could be a landmark weekend for James Milner and get correspondence from a couple who listen to TCV in bed. Plus unintended pub and film names, Clash of the Commentators and the Great Glossary of Football Commentary. Suggestions and questions always welcome on WhatsApp voicenotes to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk01:10 Private Eye Colemanballs 02:30 John Murray caught in the wild 05:35 Commentaries this weekend 10:10 Owners and fans pulling in different directions? 12:20 James Milner in for landmark weekend? 17:25 TCV pillowtalk 21:15 John’s surprise greeting 24:15 Unintended pub names 29:30 Clash of the Commentators 38:20 Great Glossary of Football Commentary 50:45 How to keep a dead game interesting5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Arsenal v Sunderland, Sat 1500 Bournemouth v Villa on Sports Extra, Sat 1730 Newcastle v Brentford, Sun 1400 Brighton v Palace, Sun 1630 Liverpool v Man City.Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Bosman, Bullet header, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, Middle of the park, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep.DIVISION TWO Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Needed no second invitation, Nice headache to have, Nutmeg, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Played us off the park, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Steal a march, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands.UNSORTED After you Claude, All-Premier League affair, Aplomb, Bag/box of tricks, Brace, Brandished, Bread and butter, Breaking the deadlock, Bundled over the line, Champions elect / champions apparent, Clinical finish, Commentator’s curse, Coupon buster, Denied by the woodwork, Draught excluder, Elimination line, Fellow countryman, Foot race, Formerly of this parish, Free hit, Goalkeepers’ Union, Goalmouth scramble, Honeymoon Period, In and around, In the shop window, Keeping ball under their spell, Keystone Cops defending, Languishing, Loitering with intent, Marching orders, Nestle in the bottom corner, Numbered derbies, Opposite number, PK for penalty-kick, Postage stamp, Rasping shot, Red wine not white wine, Relegation six-pointer, Rooted at the bottom, Route One, Sending the goalkeeper the wrong way, Shooting boots, Sleeping giants, Slide rule pass, Small matter of, Spiders web, Stayed hit, Steepling, Stinging the palms, Stonewall penalty, Straight off the training ground, Taking one for the team, Team that likes to play football, Throw their cap on it, Thruppenny bit head / 50p head, Two good feet, Turning into a basketball match, Turning into a cricket score, Usher/Shepherd the ball out of play, Walking a disciplinary tightrope, Wand of a left foot, Wrap foot around it, Your De Bruynes, your Gundogans etc.

06/02/2026 • 55:14

Steve Crossman is joined by Guillem Balague, Archie Rhind-Tutt and ESPN's Julien Laurens on this week's Euro Leagues.The team reflect on Cristiano Ronaldo's decision to go on strike at Al-Nassr after Karim Benzema's move to Saudi rivals Al-Hilal! Will CR7 leave Saudi Arabia and if so, where to? Could an MLS move and a reunion with Lionel Messi be on the cards? Although, Messi could be on the move himself, with rumours circulating over a return to his boyhood club, Newell's Old Boys!Who is Liverpool's newest £60m signing, Jeremy Jacquet? Could the 20 year-old be the 'next Varane'? The panel also reflect on Ademola Lookman's move to Atletico Madrid, and Barcelona lost their next La Masia star!Speaking of Liverpool, their former fullback has just been announced as Eintracht Frankfurt head coach! Can Albert Riera bring Frankfurt back to winning ways and competing in Europe?And finally, why were there 50,000 fans at an U19 match in Cologne? And how is De Zerbi still in charge at Marseille?Timecodes: 01:50 - Ronaldo goes on strike! 12:10 - Is Messi returning to Argentina? 15:40 - Ademola Lookman joins Atletico Madrid 21:30 - Just who is Jeremy Jacquet? 28:55 - Barcelona lose La Masia star, Dro Fernandez! 33:21 - Can Albert Riera revive Frankfurt? 42:30 - Why did 50,000 fans attend Koln's U19's match? 45:50 - Just how has Roberto De Zerbi survived at Marseille?

05/02/2026 • 50:21

Steve Crossman is joined by John Murray, former Manchester City midfielder Michael Brown and former Newcastle midfielder Isaac Hayden to react to Wednesday's League Cup semi-final action as Manchester City beat Newcastle 5-1 on aggregate and will face Arsenal at Wembley on Sunday 22nd March.Hear reaction from City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe and City manager Pep Guardiola.In the Scottish Premiership, Rangers beat 10-man Kilmarnock 5-1 to move to within three points of leaders Hearts. You can hear the thoughts of their manager Danny Rohl.3:00 – Should James Trafford start the League Cup final? 7:00– Pep Guardiola is ‘addicted to winning’ 10:00 – City ‘open’ without Guehi 15:00 – Tijjani Reijnders reaction 17:00 – ‘Sad’ League Cup ending for Newcastle 21:00 – Eddie Howe reaction 23:00 – More focus on Pep Guardiola 29:00 – Pep Guardiola reaction 33:00 – Rangers 5-1 Kilmarnock: Danny Rohl reaction

04/02/2026 • 36:39

Aaron Paul, Jobi McAnuff & Darrell Clarke discuss the top stories from the EFL. Darrell reveals his involvement in helping his old player Davis Keillor-Dunn move from Barnsley to Wrexham. What about Coventry letting their 10-point lead slip? Managerial departures at Blackburn and Watford. And the guys have their say on the Ian Holloway rant. Plus, send us your EFL ‘hard man’ suggestions on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369.01:20 Deadline Day is all about the pizzas! 04:25 Darrell involved in the Davis Keillor-Dunn deal 06:40 Other transfer highlights 10:50 Coventry’s 10-point lead wiped out 16:10 Hull & Boro among the chasers 19:10 Blackburn sack Valérien Ismaël 29:00 Javi Gracia leaves Watford 34:20 Ian Holloway’s rant reflections 41:00 72PLUS 72MINUS5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Wed 2000 Man City v Newcastle in EFL Cup, Sat 1500 Arsenal v Sunderland, Sat 1500 Bournemouth v Aston Villa on Sports Extra, Sat 1730 Newcastle v Brentford, Sun 1400 Brighton v Crystal Palace, Sun 1630 Liverpool v Man City.

04/02/2026 • 45:59

Kelly Cates is joined by Ian Dennis, former Arsenal defender Matthew Upson and forward Chelsea forward Fran Kirby to review Tuesday's League Cup semi-final action as Arsenal beat Chelsea 4-2 on aggregate to qualify for the League Cup final.Hear reaction from Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta and Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior.Kelly also looks ahead to Wednesday's semi-final second leg between Manchester City and Newcastle. Hear from Newcastle boss Eddie Howe and Newcastle Fan TV's Lee Lawler.00:30 - Arsenal beat Chelsea to make it to Wembley 08:35 - Jurrien Timber reaction 13:50 - Mikel Arteta reaction 18:50 - Liam Rosenior reaction 23:30 - Eddie Howe pre Manchester City 24:30 - Newcastle fan Lee Lawler

03/02/2026 • 29:58

Mark Chapman, Steph Houghton, Chris Sutton and Rory Smith react to an underwhelming Transfer Deadline Day and the big talking points from the weekend’s action in the Premier League. They discuss; whether Tottenham’s second half comeback to draw with Manchester City can be a turning point, what’s causing City’s slump in form, Arsenal’s six-point lead at the top of the table, and Hugo Ekitike stepping up as Liverpool’s new star man. 01:17 – Transfer Deadline Day with Sami Mokbel 13:06 – Manchester City fan Rachel Herdson on their poor form 31:30 – Tottenham’s turning point? 36:10 – Too much focus on nervousness around Arsenal? 48:32 – Hugo Ekitike: Liverpool’s new star man

02/02/2026 • 60:33

Have Arsenal put worries over their mentality to bed? Have Manchester City lost their ruthless edge? Their 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur means Arsenal end the weekend with a six-point lead at the top of the Premier League table.Rick Edwards is joined by Nigel Reo-Coker and Luke Edwards to discuss that and the rest of the weekend’s big talking points. Manchester United made it 3 wins in a row with a 3-2 win against Fulham, is that the real marker of their progress under Michael Carrick? And what does Chelsea’s half-time turnaround against West Ham tell us about Liam Rosenior’s managerial pedigree? TIMECODES: 01:10 – Manchester City drop points again 05:20 – Tottenham’s second half comeback 13:25 – Arsenal move six points clear 19:40 – Three wins in a row for Carrick’s Manchester United 31:02 – Half time teaser 32:02 – Chelsea’s comeback against West Ham 39:55 – A good point for Forest against Crystal Palace? 42:04 – Excellent Ekitike 45:51 – David Moyes’ celebrations

01/02/2026 • 48:58

In this week’s edition of the Football Interview, Kelly Somers speaks to Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz. They discuss his introduction to football and when he knew he would pursue a career in the sport. They also get into his breakthrough at Leverkusen aged just 17, becoming the club's youngest player to play in the division. Wirtz also speaks about signing for Liverpool and how he can reach his maximum potential.

31/01/2026 • 14:13

John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball talk football, travel & language. They reflect on a dramatic finish to the Champions League league phase and discuss ideas for changing the format. Plus unintended pub and film names returns, as does Clash of the Commentators along with the Great Glossary of Football Commentary. Suggestions welcome on WhatsApp voicenotes to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk02:00 John’s fall from grace 06:50 5 Live commentaries coming up 12:50 Champions League reflections 17:45 Does the format need changing? 21:00 Unintended pub and film names 31:50 Harry Maguire for England? 35:45 Clash of the Commentators 47:15 Great Glossary of Football Commentary5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Leeds v Arsenal, Sat 1500 Brighton v Everton on Sports Extram Sat 1730 Chelsea v West Ham, Sun 1400 Man Utd v Fulham , Sun 1400 Aston Villa v Brentford on Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Forest v Palace on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1630 Tottenham v Man City.Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Agricultural challenge, Back to square one, Bosman, Bullet header, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep.DIVISION TWO Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Good leave, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Leading the line, Needed no second invitation, Nice headache to have, Nutmeg, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Played us off the park, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Steal a march, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands.UNSORTED 2-0 is a dangerous score, After you Claude, All-Premier League affair, Aplomb, Bag/box of tricks, Brace, Brandished, Bread and butter, Breaking the deadlock, Bundled over the line, Champions elect / champions apparent, Clinical finish, Commentator’s curse, Coupon buster, Denied by the woodwork, Draught excluder, Elimination line, Fellow countryman, Foot race, Formerly of this parish, Free hit, Goalkeepers’ Union, Goalmouth scramble, Good touch for a big man, Honeymoon Period, In and around, In the shop window, Keeping ball under their spell, Keystone Cops defending, Languishing, Loitering with intent, Marching orders, Nestle in the bottom corner, Numbered derbies, Opposite number, PK for penalty-kick, Postage stamp, Put it in the mixer, Rasping shot, Red wine not white wine, Relegation six-pointer, Rooted at the bottom, Route One, Sending the goalkeeper the wrong way, Shooting boots, Sleeping giants, Slide rule pass, Small matter of, Spiders web, Stayed hit, Steepling, Stinging the palms, Stonewall penalty, Straight off the training ground, Taking one for the team, Team that likes to play football, Throw their cap on it, Thruppenny bit head / 50p head, Two good feet, Turning into a basketball match, Turning into a cricket score, Usher/Shepherd the ball out of play, Walking a disciplinary tightrope, Wand of a left foot, Wrap foot around it, Your De Bruynes, your Gundogans etc.

30/01/2026 • 58:14

Steve Crossman is joined by Guillem Balague, James Horncastle and Mina Rzouki to discuss all things European football, including last night's final round of Champions League group stage fixtures.The team delve into Benfica's late goal which secured them qualification into the playoffs, how Napoli and Marseille got knocked out entirely and whether Bayern should be considered as one of the favourites for the Champions League.They're also joined by Archie Rhind-Tutt, former Benfica player Diogo Luis, Matt Spiro and Christian Falk throughout the episode.00:40 - Thoughts on the Champions League league phase format 03:50 - Archie Rhind-Tutt on Anatoliy Trubin's winner for Benfica 09:30 - Diogo Luis on Benfica and Sporting Lisbon qualifying for Champions League knockouts 18:00 - Napoli knocked out of Europe and Antonio Conte's European record 25:30 - Matt Spiro on Marseille and Roberto De Zerbi 33:40 - Christian Falk on Bayern Munich losing their unbeaten Bundesliga record and their Champions League hopes 39:50 - Schalke sign Edin Dzeko 43:45 - What would the panel change about the Champions League format?

29/01/2026 • 46:33

Ali Bruce-Ball has reaction to a dramatic night in the UEFA Champions League. Hear from Dan Burn after Newcastle’s draw with PSG leaves them with a play-off. And catch expert insight from Chris Sutton, Michael Brown, Leon Osman and French football expert Sara Menaï.00:15 Benfica GK scores to see them into play-offs! 01:20 Chelsea beat Conte’s Napoli to finish 6th 08:30 Tottenham win in Frankfurt to finish 4th 12:10 Man City scrape through in top eight 16:00 Newcastle and PSG both drop out of top eight 19:00 Dan Burn interview 22:20 Liverpool and Arsenal breeze through 23:35 The Bodø story continues 24:10 Benfica goalkeeper steals the show5 Live / BBC Sounds Premier League commentaries: Sat 1500 Leeds v Arsenal, Sat 1500 Brighton v Everton on Sports Extra, Sat 1730 Chelsea v West Ham, Sun 1400 Man Utd v Fulham , Sun 1400 Aston Villa v Brentford on Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Nottingham Forest v Crystal Palace on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1630 Tottenham v Man City.

28/01/2026 • 26:24

Ex Bristol Rovers boss Darrell Clarke joins West Brom winger Jed Wallace, Lyle Taylor and Aaron Paul to discuss the latest goings on in the EFL. Jed talks about life under new manager Eric Ramsay at The Hawthorns. Darrell Clarke reflects on his time at Bristol Rovers. It's 10 years since Leicester City won the Premier League and life is looking very different now. Plus Cardiff keep rolling on, signs of life at Norwich and nerves at Coventry.TIME CODES:2:24 Jed Wallace on West Brom's struggles under Eric Ramsay 11:27 Darrell Clarke talks about his departure from Bristol Rovers 13:49 What a difference 10 years makes for Leicester City 22:42 Are Cardiff City the model for how to get out of League One? 28:30 Philippe Clement wants to take Norwich City to the Premier League 31:44 It's a nervous time at Coventry City

28/01/2026 • 33:33

All the reaction as top of the table Arsenal drop points to Manchester United at the Emirates. Chris Sutton, Steph Houghton and Rory Smith join Mark Chapman to discuss Sunday’s result in North London – are the nerves kicking in for Arsenal? And could Manchester United have a dilemma on their hands if Michael Carrick’s impressive start continues? They turn their attention to the south coast where Liverpool were beaten by Brighton – ending an unbeaten start to 2026. Have those results papered over the cracks of a “soft” Liverpool team? And they look back at the weekend’s VAR and handball controversy – were the rules applied correctly for Chelsea’s penalty at Crystal Palace?TIME CODES: 00:30 – Arsenal 2-3 Manchester United 34:35 – Liverpool 45:30 – VAR & Handball5 Live / BBC Sounds UEFA Champions League commentaries: Wed 2000 PSG v Newcastle, Wed 2000 Man City v Galatasaray on Sports Extra, Wed 2000 Napoli v Chelsea on Sports Extra 2.

26/01/2026 • 53:49

Man Utd beat leaders Arsenal to blow the title race wide open. Hear from Michael Carrick and Mikel Arteta as Rick Edwards is joined by former Liverpool and England goalkeeper David James and BBC Sport senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel. Also hear from Andoni Iraola and Arne Slot after Liverpool’s last-gasp defeat, and catch up with under-pressure Spurs boss Thomas Frank.04:25 Michael Carrick interview 11:55 Mikel Arteta interview 18:10 Aston Villa & Man City close in 22:55 Iraola & Slot interviews 31:50 What’s the latest with Andy Robertson? 33:20 Half-time teaser 34:50 Is Thomas Frank’s time running out? 42:10 Burnley mountain gets higher 46:05 West Ham win three on the bounce 47:00 Could Crystal Palace get dragged in? 50:00 Goal of the weekend?5 Live / BBC Sounds UEFA Champions League commentaries: Wed 2000 PSG v Newcastle, Wed 2000 Man City v Galatasaray on Sports Extra, Wed 2000 Napoli v Chelsea on Sports Extra 2.

25/01/2026 • 52:39

Marseille Manager Roberto De Zerbi speaks with Guillem Balague about the evolution in football, fans expectations and his friendship with Pep Guardiola. They discuss his relationship with Marseille fans, why he chose them when he could've gone to a bigger club, and how they can reach the same level as PSG. Timecodes: 0’30 - Does he feel the responsibility to win at Marseille? 1’30 - His relationship with the owner and the importance of his relationship with the fans 2’50 - Fans expectations have increased due to social media 3’30 - Other managers shocked when he went to Marseille 4’30 - How De Zerbi told players he tore up Man Utd contract to join Marseille and knew he wanted the job when he came to Velodrome with Brighton season before 5’40 - How he could’ve gone to bigger club but is improving himself at Marseille 7’11 - His relationship with special friend Pep Guardiola, how he helped him at Brighton, and how they gain from each other. 10’00 - Pep shared data with De Zerbi from his video analysist 10’20 - How would he describe his evolution and how football has changed recently 14’30 - Working with big players and allowing them to share their opinion, and how he improves from players 17’00 - is it harder for English player to enter his way of thinking into De Zerbi style of play 18’00 - His style of football reflects his life and how he is one three managers that understands the evolution of football 20’00 - What does he have to do to get Marseille closer to PSG?

24/01/2026 • 21:46

Jonathan Pearce joins John Murray & Ian Dennis to talk football, travel & language. John is back from Bodø, Jonathan tells tales of changing football on the radio, his thoughts on the Cantona kung-fu kick commentary & Robot Wars reflections. Plus which commentary phrase will JP add to our Great Glossary? Suggestions welcome on WhatsApp voicenotes to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk00:25 John back from Bodø, 04:00 5 Live commentaries this weekend, 10:55 Does Jonathan like the new Champions League format? 13:15 How Jonathan changed football on the radio, 24:35 Jonathan’s best gaffes, 32:25 Cantona’s kung-fu kick, 39:05 Robot Wars reflections, 44:40 Great Glossary of Football Commentary, 54:05 Bonus Bobby Moore story.5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Burnley v Tottenham, Sat 1500 Man City v Wolves, Sat 1730 Bournemouth v Liverpool. Sun 1400 Newcastle v Aston Villa, Sun 1400 Crystal Palace v Chelsea on Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Brentford v Nott’m Forest on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1630 Arsenal v Man Utd, Wed 2000 PSG v Newcastle, Wed 2000 Man City v Galatasaray on Sports Extra, Wed 2000 Napoli v Chelsea on Sports Extra 2.Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE Back to square one, Bosman, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Tiki-taka, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Good leave, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Leading the line, Nice headache to have, Nutmeg, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Played us off the park, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Reaches for their pocket, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Show across the bows, Slide-rule pass, Steal a march, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Turns on a sixpence, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands. UNSORTED 2-0 is a dangerous score, After you Claude, All-Premier League affair, Aplomb, Bag/box of tricks, Brace, Brandished, Bread and butter, Breaking the deadlock, Bundled over the line, Champions elect / champions apparent, Clinical finish, Commentator’s curse, Coupon buster, Denied by the woodwork, Draught excluder, Elimination line, Fellow countryman, Foot race, Formerly of this parish, Free hit, Goalkeepers’ Union, Goalmouth scramble, Good touch for a big man, Honeymoon Period, In and around, In the shop window, Keeping ball under their spell, Keystone Cops defending, Languishing, Loitering with intent, Marching orders, Nestle in the bottom corner, Numbered derbies, Opposite number, PK for penalty-kick, Postage stamp, Put it in the mixer, Rasping shot, Red wine not white wine, Relegation six-pointer, Rooted at the bottom, Route One, Sending the goalkeeper the wrong way, Shooting boots, Sleeping giants, Slide rule pass, Small matter of, Spiders web, Stayed hit, Steepling, Stinging the palms, Stonewall penalty, Straight off the training ground, Taking one for the team, Team that likes to play football, Throw their cap on it, Thruppenny bit head / 50p head, Towering header, Two good feet, Turning into a basketball match, Turning into a cricket score, Usher/Shepherd the ball out of play, Walking a disciplinary tightrope, Wand of a left foot, Wrap foot around it, Your De Bruynes, your Gundogans etc.

23/01/2026 • 56:26

Steve Crossman is joined by Guillem Ballague, Julien Laurens & Rafa Honigstein following a week of surprise in Europe. After their shock win over Manchester City, Bodo Glimt's 'Culture Coach', Bjorn Mannsverk, lifts the lid on what has created their winning environment.  From one underdog in the Champions League to another; Qarabag are a draw at Anfield away from the play-offs. Does their win over Frankfurt highlight a wider issue in German football?  Plus, Marcel Van de Kraan of De Telegraaf joins to discuss Erik Ten Hag's appointment as technical director at Twente and the latest from the Van Persie dynasty. Timecodes: 8'17 Bodo Glimt's Culture Coach Bjorn Mannsverk 18'38 Qarabag 24'12 German football 31'30 Marcel Van de Kraan joins

22/01/2026 • 43:22