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The lads take a look at Liverpool's disasterclass against Napoli, the struggles defensively and how it can all be undone, as well as Napoli's part in making it happen. We chat about Thomas Tuchel's surprise sacking at Chelsea and Graham Potter's move there and how Brighton might fill the gap left behind.We also chat Richarlison's Champions League heroics, United's big win against Arsenal and Shamrock Rovers' 0-0 draw to begin their Conference League group stage.Please subscribe & rate the podcast!#3ATB | Contact editor@backpagefootball.com | Hosted by Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn), Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Kevin is joined by Simon Kelly (@simonkelly93) and Declan Harte (@CheesyHartePun) to discuss Liverpool's last minute win against Newcastle and how Darwin Nunez could be the Joker in the pack heading into the Merseyside Derby. Also, why Arthur Melo doesn't make a whole pile of sense as Liverpool makes a rare Deadline Day panic buy.We chat about Erling Haaland making the Premier League look like the real Farmers League, how easy he could make Pep's goal of winning the Champions League, and also talk about Chelsea and Arsenal's early season form, plus how Spurs are faring as Richarlison draws the ire of the English football media.And we talk about Jason Knight's lack of a summer transfer and how that may not necessarily be a bad thing.Please subscribe & rate the podcast!#3ATB | Contact editor@backpagefootball.com | Hosted by Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn), Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's a busy weekend of Premier League action to unpack - the lads talk about Liverpool's struggles to find a win, Man Utd's struggles to do anything right, what they should do at the goalkeeper position and the state of online fandom following the abuse of Crystal Palace defender Joachim Anderson. We also discuss if Arsenal were slept on heading into this season as well as Spurs and Chelsea serving up the finest of Barclays action on Sunday.Elsewhere, we chat about Robbie Brady possibly breaking back into Ireland's plans, Michael Obafemi finally getting his head screwed on and the state of the Bundesliga as Bayern go in search of an 11th title in a row.Please subscribe & rate the podcast!#3ATB | Contact editor@backpagefootball.com | Hosted by Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn), Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kevin is joined by Oisin Doherty and Rudi Kinsella to flick through the opening Premier League weekend talking points, including Erling Haaland's instant domination and his cartoonish demeanor, Liverpool's ageing struggles, Aleksander Mitrovic and the latest goings on at Manchester Utd off the back of their opening day defeat to Brighton.We also chat about the Irish clubs flying the flag in Europe and the Irish players taking the Football League by storm, including Troy Parrott's impact at Preston and Chiedozie Ogbene's fantastic start to life in the Championship. We also talk Nathan Collins, Gavin Bazunu and Conor Coventry's West Ham debut, plus the Scouse manager madness with Steven Gerrard and Joey Barton.Please subscribe & rate the podcast!#3ATB | Contact editor@backpagefootball.com | Hosted by Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn), Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

The gang are back for a new season and kick things off by looking at the impact Euro 2022 has had on the women's game, both worldwide and here at home in Ireland. We take a look at Liverpool and Manchester City heading into this season, including Darwin Nunez and Erling Haaland's English football adjustment, why City might be got at and why Spurs could be a surprise package for the first half of the season in our first spicy hot take of the campaign.On the Irish front, we analyse Nathan Collins and Gavin Bazunu's big Premier League moves and why Burnley may turn out to be the perfect landing spot for Josh Cullen. Also, there's some chat on the new offside technology, tiny defenders, Hawk-Eye and Enda gets his first reps of the season in on Mikel Arteta.Please subscribe & rate the podcast!#3ATB | Contact editor@backpagefootball.com | Hosted by Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn), Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The lads cover the Ireland Women's fantastic 1-1 draw away in Sweden, the fantastic stories throughout the team and how that puts us in great stead for World Cup qualification in 2023.Elsewhere, we chat about the European barnstormer between Real Madrid and Chelsea, Unai Emery's incredible knockout football record, Erik Ten Hag's appointment at Man Utd, plus Kenny Shiels' ridiculous comments on the back of Northern Ireland Women's loss to England.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This week, the lads are joined by James Grimes from The Big Step initiative which aims to raise awareness around the issues with gambling ads in football. As gambling brands and advertising becomes more and more prevalent on TV and around the grounds, James speaks about his own history with addiction and the efforts The Big Step are going to curb the impact ads are having on gambling addiction. We speak about the why so much advertising can be so harmful, the poor messaging brands are sending out and why we might look on bookmakers as we do now with tobacco.Elsewhere, the lads cut through the Champions League action this week, Erik Ten Hag's imminent arrival at Manchester United, Michael Obafemi's case for a chance in the Ireland team and the latest on the Qatar World Cup - plus the massive investigative report from Der Spiegel into Manchester City's financial acrobatis. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The lads recap the international break as Ireland draw 2-2 with Belgium and beat Lithuania thanks to a last gasp winner from Troy Parrott. We talk about the system, the lads whose stock has risen after the two games, why Seamus Coleman's days as a starter may be numbered and why Caoimhin Kelleher may not have closed the gap on Gavin Bazunu.Also, why Jamie McGrath should have been involved and if others sat at home may be looking to take some spots come this summer's games, plus some chat on the U21's fantastic 2-0 win against Sweden.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This week the lads discuss the future of Irish football across a number of fronts, as the FAI announce their part in hosting the Euro 2028 tournament alongside Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales and where the association's priorities may be better applied. We also take a look at the young players parting the nest for ventures further afield, with youngsters heading to Serie A, and what this means for the future of Irish talent leaving the domestic game.And we take a look at the FAI Strategic Plan for 2025 as it is unveils during the show and some of the lofty ambitions the FAI have in mind. Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This week we're joined by Martin Calladine (@uglygame) to get our heads around cryptocurrency and NFTs in football - what are fan tokens, why are fans buying them, why are the likes of Manchester City getting duped by fake companies and where is the regulation? Plus, why this could lead to club ownership takeovers funded by NFTs and why John Terry is posting cartoon monkeys all over everyone's timeline. (from 30mins)Before all that, the lads talk about the latest AFCON madness as Comoros go out with their heads high, while Sadio Mane's clearly concussed state could lead to problems down the line. We also talk about the relegation scrap at the bottom of the Premier League, Newcastle's warm weather training and the latest Irish transfer interest, as James Abankwah ventures to Serie A and Lee O'Connor makes his Tranmere move permanent.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

As COVID-19 postponements rampage through the Premier League, Charlie Eccleshare joins us to make sense of the league's willingness to include injuries and AFCON departures in their numbers, why they haven't aligned with other big European leagues in forcing through academy talent, why the rules mightn't change anytime soon, plus the sporting integrity going forward as teams face a packed schedule for the rest of the season. (40:00mins)Elsewhere, we chat about Rafa Benitez's departure at Everton as he takes down the house along with him, why Everton won't find themselves out of dysfunction anytime soon and what makes Manchester City so...meh? We discuss Ken Early's piece that talks about City's perfection that has removed any jeopardy from their seasons.And we lax lyrical on Adam Idah following his first Premier League goal this past weekend.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The gang are back and where better to pick up than the FA Cup Third Round. We chat about Newcastle and Arsenal getting slayed, Caoimhin Kelleher's rise as Liverpool's #2 and why recent television exposure has put him on a bigger pedestal than ever, Evan Ferguson's remarkable rise at just 17 as he sees some Brighton action and why Aaron Connolly needs to strike now with Middlesbrough having failed to build on his early hype.From 30mins, we're joined by Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) to chat about the 2021 African Cup of Nations - covering some of the big favourites, why Mo Salah needs a title to enter the conversation of Africa's greatest ever player and the style and tactical set-ups of the big contenders.We also talk about why African managers haven't seen the same success in Europe as players, why European football's ignorance of the competition leaves them missing out and Owuraku tells us about Dublin's Roberto Lopes and why Cape Verde are no minnows at the tournament.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Ralf Rangnick is in town and has turned United around overnight... or has he? We talk about United's win against Palace and how the Rangnick blueprint could look beyond this season. Divock Origi continues his cult hero status with aplomb against Wolves, Everton live to fight another day as Rafa seeks more power and the Bundesliga is just hotting up, despite what you might have heard.In part two (from 43min) Emmet Gates is back to run the rule over all things Serie A, including the Milan sides leading the title race, Atalanta as perennial entertainers, lowly Juventus, Jose's struggles at Roma and why the latest financial controversies shouldn't be a Calciopoli repeat.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has finally met his end, we talk about United's lack of planning that has left them with no interim manager, pipe dreams of Pochettino and the problems the next guy will have to face to start turning things around at Old Trafford.Also, there's talk on Liverpool's big win over Arsenal, Steven Gerrard's early new manager bounce at Villa and why Leicester might have been secretly happy to see United coming looking for Brendan Rodgers.On matters closer to home, we talk about the buzz around the League of Ireland at the moment ahead of the massive FAI Cup final this weekend between Bohs and St Pats as well as the big week for Vera Pauw's charges in their quest for World Cup qualification.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

There's no stopping West Ham, not even Liverpool - we discuss what's so fragile about this Liverpool side and why David Moyes has West Ham ticking. We talk about the Manchester Derby as another week goes by with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's future up in the air. And we take a look at Dean Smith's sacking at Aston Villa and if Steven Gerrard is really the man for the job. Plus, the upcoming Ireland games and if we can avenge the loss to Luxembourg.In part 2 (from 48m) Alan Feehely (@azulfeehely) joins to talk all things Spanish football as Xavi makes the inevitable move into the Barcelona hotseat. We'll see what his plan is to turn around Barcelona's fortunes and how long he'll get to do it. Also, why Real Sociedad are top of the league, how Karim Benzema is carrying Real Madrid and why Unai Emery decided to stay at Villareal after flirting with Newcastle.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Ole goes from dead man walking to manager killer as Nuno Espirito Santo gets the bullet at Spurs. We discuss the past week at Manchester Utd, why Conte to Spurs makes more sense, Liverpool's midfield problems and why Graham Potter looks the real deal at an exciting Brighton. We also discuss Aaron Ramsdale proving us all wrong, Paddy Vieira's mighty Palace and why Andrew Omobamidele is in the Premier League to stay.In part two (45mins), we're joined by Macdara Ferris (@macdarabueller) to talk about the League of Ireland season as Shamrock Rovers sealed a successive title at the weekend - we talk about Danny Mandriou, the title challengers who can threaten Rovers' thrown, Dundalk's problems, why RTE should be doing more for the domestic game, and we also talk about Macdara's new book 'From Ringsend to Tallaght', interviewing some key figures in the past 100 years at Shamrock Rovers.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Liverpool and City played out a (second half) game for the ages, with Mo Salah confirming his status as Liverpool's greatest in the modern era. We discussed that, Rodri's brilliance, James Milner counting his lucky stars and why City's move for Grealish over Kane may become a recurring theme.Also, there's chat about Solskjaer's future and his team selection against Everton, Leicester's struggles and why Brendan Rodgers is a Europa League manager who hates the Europa League.And we take turns to laugh at Barcelona as well as take a look at Ireland ahead of the upcoming international break - and why the mood music is harboring good vibes for Kenny and his team.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The gang unpack another big weekend of Premier League action, as a top four emerges amongst Manchester Utd after Cristiano Ronaldo's return and their big win against Newcastle, Liverpool as Mo Salah hits his 100th Premier League goal, City as they nick a win over hapless Leicester, and Chelsea as Romelu Lukaku resumes his role as flat-track bully.Elsewhere, we wonder if Patrick Vieira can actually turn things around at Palace after his first win as manager and look ahead to the Champions League group stage which kicks off this week - including our infamous Dark Horse predictions for the campaign.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Well, it was all going so well until Cristiano Ronaldo decided to show up and break Irish hearts with two awesome headers to snatch the win. Until then, there were plenty of positives to take as Gavin Bazunu denied Ronaldo from the spot, Andrew Omobamidele looked the part in an unexpected debut, Josh Cullen and Matt Doherty delivered fine performances and Adam Idah led the line like a well travelled #9.To unpack the game, look at who wasn't involved and wax lyrical about the U21s, Evan Ferguson and some of the young talent coming through, we're joined by Ronan Calvert (@KennysKids).Please excuse some audio gremlins for the host, which miraculously fixed themselves mid-way through the recording.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The lads unpack a manic few days in the football and transfer front, with Cristiano Ronaldo's seismic return to Manchester Utd the headliner. We're joined by Daniel Harris to see what the transfer means for the club, our moral compasses and the expectations for the club this season with his impactful return (from 51mins).On the Premier League front, we talk Liverpool's 1-1 draw with Chelsea and if Liverpool's lack of transfer activity could put paid to an extended title challenge. We consider the Paul Pogba tackle that had Souness fuming, Arsenal's utterly absymal form that has then drawing comparisons to Derby of 07/08, plus there's the Irish international break and what we can hope to get out of the upcoming games as well as the fantastic news over the Equal Pay announcement.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The lads round up the Premier League's weekend action, as Harvey Elliott catches the eye for Liverpool while Mane and Salah's relationship looks on ice. United struggle against Southampton, Ings scores a belter for Villa as offside saves Martinez from red, Moyes' West Ham are flying as Michail Antonio continues to terrorize defences, and Arsenal look to be approaching crisis mode if things don't turn around for Arteta.In part two (from 52 mins), Emmet Gates tells us about the latest goings on Italian football, as the departure of some big name talent has even the playing field across the top sides which could make for one of the most exciting title races across Europe this season.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Premier League is back with a bang and Kevin, Phil and Enda unpack all the madness from the opening weekend, including Brentford's superb win over Arsenal and how Mikel Arteta's side seemed so unprepared for the Bee's pressing onslaught.There's good things at Man Utd and Liverpool, how much stock to take from Aston Villa's defeat against Watford and why David Moyes has West Ham ticking with their plethora of attacking talent. Plus, how Spurs got the better of City and why Pep has been so slow to try and find replacements for Aguero and Fernandinho and why Harry Kane needs a new agent if he wants to get the better end of a deal with Daniel Levy.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

After 21 years, Leo Messi departs Barcelona amidst a financial black hole that leaves Barcelona in a precarious position. To discuss this and what it means for Spanish football as a whole, we're joined by Ruairidh Barlow (@RuriBarlow) to discuss what led to this moment, the future of Barcelona and how the La Liga landscape looks for everyone else following his departure (from 1hr 00)Before that, the lads take a look at the return of the Premier League and cast an eye over Jack Grealish's move to City and why that could be good for Aston Villa, the Harry Kane situation and Spurs' quietly good transfer business, the Romelu Lukaku return to Chelsea and how that might work, and take a look at United, Liverpool and why Patrick Vieira might not be the man to take Crystal Palace's young guns forward.Please subscribe, review and support the show!Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

And then there were two...Kevin, Enda and Phil unpack everything from the two semi-finals, including Spain's super performance, incredible Chiesa, Chiellini's psychological warfare and the sports psychologist's dream that is Alvaro Morata.On the other side, we pay tribute to Denmark and their tournament run after the trauma of Finland, enjoy Mikkel Damsgaard's delicious free-kick, discuss the penalty fiasco and England becoming the baddies, consider Sterling for Player of the Tournament and preview the big final on Sunday.𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲, 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀!‏‏‎ ‎Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Is it coming home? We'll see, as Mark Critchley (@mjcritchley) joins to talk about their tournament run that has them on the brink of the final. We talk about Southgate's superb man management, Raheem Sterling's remarkable turnaround, the system that has Rice and Phillips purring, Jordan Pickford's renewed image, why Rice and Grealish have well and truly moved on and the cultural impact this team could leave off the field. (from 35min)Elsewhere, the lads recap the quarter-finals including Spain's misfiring attack and shaky lefty defence, Italy's immense sh*thousery, Belgium's end of the road and Denmark showing they can do the dirty work.𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲, 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀!‏‏‎ ‎Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It's a Euro 2020 Last 16 recap, as we flick through each of the games and all the major talking points after a mental week - including Spain's new found scoring touch, the French madness on and off the field, Czech Republic's downing of disappointing Dutch, poor Portugal, unconvincing Belgium and unpack everything as England cast off the nightmares of Germans past. From 1hr 5mins, we're joined by Danish journalist Kenneth Jensen (@kennethjensen85) to cover Denmark at Euro 2020 - including the emotional impact of Christian Eriksen, the wave of positivity in the aftermath, the super talented side that people overlooked, some of the key cogs in the machine and expectations ahead of meeting Czech Republic. 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲, 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀! ‏‏‎ ‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

In our first recap of Euro 2020, the lads take a look at all of the big hitters and big disappointments so far - including England's team selection head scratchers, the Netherlands' gung-ho march into the Last 16, the Group F insanity between France, Germany and Portugal, Belgium's class when de Bruyne is on the field and Spain's inability to recreate tika-taka of 10 years ago. From 45 minutes, we're joined by Emmet Gates (@emmetgates) to talk about Italy and the fantastic job Roberto Mancini has done since taking on the job. We look at the spread of talent across all of the top Serie A clubs, the group unity as Mancini looks to get everyone some minutes on the field, the selection headache he faces going into the knockout stages and their lack of experience facing some of the big hitters and why Mancini might have an eye on Qatar 2022. 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲, 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀! ‏‏‎ ‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

We preview the upcoming Euro 2020, looking at all the runners and riders and our favourites and dark horses for the tournament, paying special attention to Scotland with Padraig Whelan (@pwhelan88) and their chances at their first tournament since France '98, with two games on home turf and a trip to Wembley to face old rivals England(55min). We're also joined by James Burgoyne (@JAMBurgoyne) to discuss Wales and their chances of emulating the famous 2016 run, with a fresh looking side and recent managerial changes (1hr 17min). Before all that, the lads take in Ireland's first win under Stephen Kenny and consider the positives after a truly brutal season for the Irish team - plus, we discuss their kneeling protest that invited a chorus of boos from the Hungarian support. 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲, 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀! ‏‏‎ ‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

To preview the Champions League final this weekend, we get the fan view from Ger Deegan (@gerradeegan) and Sean O'Connor (@seanocsport) - recapping Man City and Chelsea's seasons, what it feels like to be in the final, the manager mind-games, the key players involved and how the final could hinge on two homegrown products (46m). ‎‏‏‎ ‎ Before all that, the lads recap the Europa League final and the woes of David de Gea, look at the Pochettino/Conte/Zidane manager merry-go-round that is chugging around Europe, and take look at the Ireland summer camp selections and the allegiances of some who're there... and others who are not. ‏‏‎ ‎ 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲, 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀! ‏‏‎ ‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

With one gameweek left around Europe, there's a title still up for grabs in Spain - Alan Feehely joins to talk about Atletico Madrid's season as they head towards the title, but Real Madrid are still in contention ahead of a summer of change with Zinedine Zidane's future uncertain. We'll also take a look at the mad house in Barcelona where Ronald Koeman, Leo Messi and a host of players' futures are still uncertain. (from 39m) ‎‏‏‎ ‎ Before that, Kevin, Enda and debutante Simon discuss the top four race in England with the final place now in Liverpool's hands, Brendan Rodgers' penchant for avoiding European competition, the Spurs job and the future of Harry Kane and his likely suitors. Plus: good news on the Irish front with the snag of Ryan Johansson, the summer camp selections and the latest goings on in Italy and France. ‏‏‎ ‎ 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲, 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀! ‏‏‎ ‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

The lads are joined by Chris Winterburn (@cmwinterburn) to debate the rise of rookie managers at high profile jobs - why teams are willing to hire them, the risk of becoming damaged goods, the pressure on them to take big jobs now rather than later, what the future holds for the likes of Frank Lampard and Mikel Arteta, the 'elite' coaching bracket and where the likes of Pochettino and Tuchel lie in it, and if it's unfair to lump Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in with the rookies. (from 29m) Before all that - we take a look at the top four race and Leicester's potential second bottling, Liverpool's chances of bridging the gap and if West Ham can hold on. Also, some Wes Hoolahan love, plus a look at the title races in France and Spain. Join the Discord & Newsletter: linktr.ee/ThreeAtTheBack 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

It's a European football bonanza this week - as talking about the Super League disaster and top four race in England, take a look at Julian Nagelsmann's immanent move to Bayern Munich in the German manager merry-go-round, talk about the top four race that is too close to call in Italy, the French title race that has Lille ahead of the powerful PSG and the La Liga race which is all to play for and has plucky Seville coming up fast in the wing mirror. To take a closer look at Portugal, we're joined by Tom Kundert (@PortuGoal1) from Portugoal.net to take a look at Sporting Lisbon's charge towards their first title since 2002, what's gone wrong at Benfica and Porto this year, the National side and their star-studded squad and if Jose Mourinho could be tempted in to take them to World Cup glory. Join the Discord & Newsletter: linktr.ee/ThreeAtTheBack 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

It's a Super League special this week - going through the fallout of this weekend's major announcement that sees a breakaway competition attempt to carve their own way in a bubble of greed and exclusivity. The backlash, the logo, what "fans of the future" might look like, the player implications and the likelihood of it all actually happening. There's also quick words on the not so small story of Jose Mourinho's sacking at Spurs. Slow news day, eh?! Join the Discord & Newsletter: linktr.ee/ThreeAtTheBack 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

It's a Champions League recap as we look at Liverpool's knockout at the hands of a solid Real Madrid side - talking about the selection, Nat Phillips and whether Firmino would be better suited to midfield. There's also chat on Chelsea's lack of goals and whether Man City can finally end their European duck. From 36 minutes we're joined by Jeremy Smith of French Football Weekly to take a closer look at PSG - the arrival of Pochettino, why Neymar isn't hugely liked, how good Mbappe is and his likely departure, and also a quick look at the Ligue 1 table which is shaping up to have a fantastic finish. Join the Discord & Newsletter: linktr.ee/ThreeAtTheBack 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

This week we're joined by Stefan Bienkowski (@SBienkowski) to run the rule over everything in German football, including Dortmund's dismal league form and the future of Erling Haaland, Marco Rose's imminent move and how Borussia Mönchengladbach's form as nose-dived as a result. We also take a look at Bayern Munich, Hansi Flick's likely move to the National team and why the RB Leipzig machine will keep chugging along. (from 36m) Before all that, the lads recap the Champions League games from during the week, discuss the Trent Alexander-Arnold form and his England situation, why Naby Keita's time could be numbered, rave over Ireland's new kid on the block - Norwich's Andrew Omobamidele - and discuss Ireland's removal of a host city of this summer's Euro 2020. Join the Discord & Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/ThreeAtTheBack 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

How quickly things change... last week we were speculating a possible change in Ireland's fortunes, this week we lament the hole John Delaney's FAI has left Irish football in on an international stage, wonder if Stephen Kenny is the right man to take things forward and hope that a post-Covid world could see a bright future for an Irish team that has been well blooded before it's time. It's not all Irish doom and gloom however, we also take a look at Liverpool's interest in Ibrahima Konate and the breaking news that is Sergio Aguero's departure from Man City this summer. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

With Norwegian clubs taking a stand against Qatar's hosting of the World Cup amidst serious human rights issues, the national side took that one step further this week with their protest. Nicholas McGeehan from FairSquare, a human rights advocacy group, joins us to talk about the wretched conditions workers are living in, the Guardian report that found 6,500 people had died since Qatar was awarded the tournament, as well as Norway's response, Xavi's promotional efforts, the likelihood of a real boycott when the tournament rolls around and why exactly Qatar and other Gulf states are so keen to invest in sports. (from 30m) Before that, Kevin and Enda breakdown Ireland's 3-2 loss to Serbia, looking at Kenny's line-up, who impressed and who still has question marks hanging over them. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

We're onto another international break and it's a fresh start for Stephen Kenny's charges - we preview the upcoming World Cup 2022 qualifiers against Serbia and Luxembourg with Oisin McQueirns (@McQueirns), including who's best fit to lead the line, figuring out the midfield three to go with and how Josh Cullen could be the future in the #6 role, and how the back five will look in the absence of some big names. We also take a look at the League of Ireland options and the exciting U-21 squad. Before all that, the lads take a look at the Champions League draw and Xabi Alonso's arrival into senior management. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

The League of Ireland season kicks off this weekend and we're joined by David Wilson (@thedavidwilson) from ExtraTime.com to run through all the goings on for 2021 - including Shamrock Rovers' bid to stay on top and replace some big departures, Dundalk's hopes to challenge them amidst confusion over their coaching structure, some of the best of the rest amongst the contenders, some big names and fresh faces, as well as a quick look at Division 1 (from 20mins). Before that - the lads talk about the North London derby, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's position at Arsenal, whether Harry Kane can now be regarded as a dirty player and why Chris Wilder's sacking wasn't a huge surprise. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

It's a bumper show this week, starting with the latest in La Liga - Alan Feehely (@azulfeehely) is on to discuss Joan Laporta's return as Barcelona president, Atletico Madrid's title charge and Luis Suarez's rejuvenation - as well as if Spanish is football is suffering a downturn amongst the elite leagues and if Zinedine Zidane is feeling the pressure once again as Real Madrid boss (from 31mins). We're also joined by Jordan Campbell of The Athletic (@JordanC1107) to talk about Rangers' storm to the title under Steven Gerrard, the misconceptions of him as a manager, his long term future of the club, the state of Celtic and the overall health of Scottish football (from 59 mins). Before all that - the lads lament the recent awful feast football that has us wanting less, discuss the problems with Liverpool at the moment and the possibility of a squad overhaul and Enda has the latest update on Man Utd. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

The podcast is back for 2021 and a lot has happened since we left off before Christmas. Firstly, it's the little matter of Frank Lampard getting the boot from Chelsea - we discuss what went wrong, the timing and how Thomas Tuchel fits into the club as Roman Abramovich's next plaything. We unpack what's gone wrong at Liverpool over a winter slump that has in the chasing pack and struggling to score goals - and find healthy defenders. From 28 minutes we're joined by Chris Winterburn (@cmwinterburn) to discuss everything Manchester United - how Ole has led them to the top of the league, the club sticking by him, the role of Pogba, Luke Shaw's dramatic improvement and how sustainable this rise is. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

We're joined by Art de Roche (@ArtDeRoche) of The Athletic to talk Arsenal this week - including what Mikel Arteta has got right so far and what he's gone wrong after starting the new season off less than impressively than they finished the previous one. We discuss their new-found defensive solidity, the midfield shape and Thomas Partey's role, whether or not Mesut Ozil will be welcomed back into the fold, the Aubameyang situation and his role in the attack and how the Emirates will look as it prepares to welcome back fans on Thursday night for the first time since March (from 30:00) Elsewhere, we praise Caoimhin Kelleher's performance for Liverpool in Europe, make sense of Klopp's war on broadcasters and why Des Kelly may deserve it, and look at Real Madrid and if Zidane is on the hotseat in a struggling season. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

We look at Chelsea this week with Oliver Harbord (@ojharbord) from Football.London, discussing their start to the season and Frank Lampard’s journey so far. We look at their summer signings and the ideal system to get the best out of them, where Callum Hudson-Odoi’s situation lies, the superstar potential of Christian Pulisic, Edouard Mendy and fans’ expectations for the season ahead. (from 27m) Before that, Kevin, Enda and Phil touch on the incredibly sad passing of Diego Maradona on Wednesday. We also discussed Liverpool’s hugely impressive win over Leicester, what’s going on at Sheffield United and the storm in a teacup that engulfed Stephen Kenny after Ireland’s international break. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

We glance across the Irish Sea this week to get a feel for England ahead of the friendly against Ireland this week - Dan Kilpatrick (@Dan_KP) from the Evening Standard joins us for a full lowdown on the England squad, Gareth Southgate's future beyond Euro 2021, the best attacking options, where Jack Grealish fits into the equation, Declan Rice's place in the side, the plethora of full backs in contention for selection, the goalkeeper conundrum and some of the wildcards knocking on the door. Before that, the lads discuss the Manchester City and Liverpool game from the weekend, why Manchester United’s away form is so good and how Ireland are shaping up with the now-retired David McGoldrick not in the team. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

It's a double header line-up on this week's podcast - first up, Conor Clancy (@ConJClancy) from Forza Italian Football talks us through the opening few weeks of the Serie A season, the ageless wonder of Zlatan, why Andrea Pirlo may not be the right choice at Juventus, Gattuso's Napoli and why Sassuolo and Atalanta are a whole pile of fun to watch. (26m) We're also joined by James Pendleton (@jpends_) to discuss Everton's start to the season. We touch on Ancelotti, the fantastic business in the summer, the rise of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and fall of Jordan Pickford and why Seamus Coleman is such a club legend. (49m) Before all that, the lads talk about Diogo Jota's immediate impact at Liverpool, the sustainability of coming from behind, Pogba's form at United and Phil compares Arsenal to Jim McGuinness' Donegal... 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

We're joined by Oisin McQueirns (@McQueirns) this week to discuss Leeds' rise back to the Premier League under the eccentric genius of Marcelo Bielsa. We touch on what he's changed at the club, the roles of Patrick Bamford and Kalvin Phillips and why he should hopefully stick around for another few years (from 24m). With the League of Ireland winding down, Dylan O'Connell (@JudgeDyl) comes on to tell us all about Cork City's fall from grace after their relegation from the Premier Division, the financial difficulties which sees it soon to be sold to the ownership group over Preston North End, Shamrock Rovers' title victory and their structure in place for continued success and Dundalk's bizarre season juggling dreadful league form and behind the scenes drama amidst a European campaign (from 45m) In the opening preamble, Kevin, Enda and Phil discuss the inconsistency around the title chase and some of the top six's problems in what could shape up to be a mental title race. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

We're joined on this week's podcast by Omar from the Villa Talks podcast (@VillaPodcast) to talk about Villa's fantastic start to the season - we chat about their transfer business, the arrival of Ross Barkley, why Jack Grealish is their best Premier League since Dwight Yorke, moving on from Tony Xia and why the extremely likeable Dean Smith is doing such a great job (42 mins). Before all that, the lads chat about the Merseyside Derby and how Liverpool can survive without Van Dijk. We also take a look at some more whacky results sending the league into a path we haven't seen in a long time and why Petr Cech has somehow ended up in Chelsea's squad for the season. We also take a look at the mooted European Super League and how that may work and why it's spearheaded by clubs with owners embedded in US sport. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

What a busy week of Irish football - a play-off defeat, COVID-19 chaos, airplane seat controversy, Bossman Steo, some decent performances, a marked improvement in the style of play and a goalless drought that is sure to leave people firmly on the fence when it comes to Stephen Kenny's new look Ireland. Kevin, Enda and Phil discuss the mostly good, some of the bad, how things are phased going forward, Mick McCarthy's commentary styles and touch on the U-21's defeat to Italy. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

We chat to Ger Deegan (@GerraDeegan) this week about everything Manchester City, including fan's frustrations, the defensive frailties after millions spent, the Pep exhaustion theory as we enter year five of his reign, life after Mikel Arteta, the Rodri Role, Joe Hodge, the lack of a Plan B or a #9 and much more. (from 40:00) Before all that, Kevin is joined by Phil and Enda to recap the Champions League draw, lament VAR and the handball rules that have skyrocketed the amount of penaties in the Premier League, and chat about some of the transfers that may or may not happen before Tuesday's deadline. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐚 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲 chatting to Seville-based Corkman Alan Feehely (@azulfeehely) about everything going on in La Liga this year including Real Madrid's business, or lackthereof, and how they're set up to defend their title, all the while chaos consumes Barcelona with Leo Messi staying but turnover aplenty including in the dugout. We also consider Atletico Madrid's chances under the ultra intense Diego Simeone and look at some of the dark horses in the pack - as well as why Iago Aspas is the Messi of the lower half of the table (from 30:00). ‎ In part 1, Kevin is joined by Enda and Phil to discuss the past week in the Premier League including Liverpool's unexpected burst of activity in the transfer window, Chelsea's problems in goals and Lampard's approach that could prove costly as the season goes on. And we also chat about Man Utd's performance against Crystal Palace and Enda outlays his worries, while Phil wonders who is less qualified to be in their roles - Solskjaer or Woodward? ‎ 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰. ‎‎‎‎‎‎ Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88).

It's a massive weekend in the realm of women's soccer as Ireland meet Germany in Euro 2022 qualification, we're joined by ESPN's Kathleen McNamee (@kathleen_mcn)to talk about the daunting task at hand and how Ireland are shaping up under Vera Pauw. (12:00) We also chat to Dan Kilpatrick of the Evening Standard (@Dan_KP) to chat about Tottenham's recent exploits, including the imminent return of Gareth Bale to the club and the finances involved, the mood around the club to Jose Mourinho's divisive methods and how their new signings, including Matt Doherty, could all fit together. We also talk about USWNT superstar Alex Morgan's arrival at White Hart Lane as Tottenham enhance their brand with one of America's biggest names. Before all that, Kevin is joined by Phil Greene and Enda Higgins to rave about Thiago's transfer to Liverpool. Contact: editor@backpagefootball / Twitter @bpfootball / Host: Kevin Coleman (@kvn_clmn) with Phil Greene (@iampgreene) and Enda Higgins (@endahiggins88.