Nutmeg Magazine

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.nutmegfc.co.ukYou don't need to be half French to worship Zizou the magnificent, but it probably helpsWelcome to a new episode of the My Sporting Hero podcast, part of Nutmeg FC. The home of brilliant football stories – made in Scotland.So far this month, Nutmeg FC subscribers have enjoyed....* Former Dundee United, Aberdeen and Hibs star Mixu Paatelainen telling us why his dad Matti is his sporting hero.* Iain Macintosh giving us the skinny on Duncan Ferguson's sensational autobiography, with nine things we didn't know about the Everton legend.* Adam Clery analysing how Scotland's Lewis Ferguson became the tactical lynchpin to Bologna's brilliant season.Great content still to come includes....* The Slow Match Report from Daniel Gray reporting on the Premiership playoff final.* Stephen McGowan's three-part investigation into plastic pitches in Scottish football.Only paid subscribers to Nutmeg FC get every piece we produce straight to their inbox – including the full version of today's episode.This time on My Sporting Hero, our guest is Christophe Berra.Christophe was a central-defensive stalwart for Hearts during two spells at Tynecastle, which bookended eight years south of the border at Wolverhampton Wanderers and Ipswich Town. He sat on the bench for Hearts' 2006 Scottish Cup triumph over Gretna but received a winner's medal, and won the second tier with the Jambos in Scotland and with Wolves in England, going on to grace three Premier League seasons with the Molineux club. He also won the Scottish Challenge Cup with Raith Rovers in 2022.Christophe has such a cool name because his dad Christian is French. However, while he retains a soft spot for Les Bleus, Edinburgh-born Christophe's allegiances are firmly with Scotland, and he proudly donned the dark blue of his nation 41 times.Christophe retired from playing three years ago and is currently based in Alabama, as interim head coach of professional outfit Huntsville City.Christophe's sporting hero is former midfielder Zinedine Zidane – France's World Cup-winning Monsieur Magnifique.Nutmeg FC | Substack

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.nutmegfc.co.ukWelcome to a new episode of the My Sporting Hero podcast, part of Nutmeg FC. The home of brilliant football stories – made in Scotland.Top content still to come this month for Nutmeg FC subscribers includes:* Exclusive columns from the brilliant Nick Harris and our tactics guru Adam Clery.* The Slow Match Report from Daniel Gray on the second leg of the Premiership playoff final.* A three-part investigation by our latest signing Stephen McGowan.Only paid subscribers to Nutmeg FC get every piece we produce straight to their inbox – including the full version of today's episode.This time on My Sporting Hero, our guest is Mixu Paatelainen.Hailing from an auspicious Finnish sporting family, Mixu became a beloved, no-nonsense striker in his home from home Scotland, most notably at Dundee United, Aberdeen and Hibernian. He won Scottish Cup runners-up medals with all three clubs and helped Hibs win the First Division in 1999. His spell at Bolton Wanderers led to his cult hero status being sealed with a mention in Peter Kay's classic comedy Phoenix Nights.Mixu's managerial career has taken him far and wide, and his charges have included Cowdenbeath, Hibs, Kilmarnock, Dundee United and the Finnish national team.Mixu's sporting hero is his father and fellow former Finland hero Matti.Nutmeg FC | Substack

Welcome to a new episode of the My Sporting Hero podcast, part of Nutmeg FC. The home of brilliant football stories – made in Scotland.So far this month, Nutmeg FC subscribers have enjoyed....* Brian Lee's article on the fascinating connection between fans of Morton and Serie B outfit Reggiana* Daniel Gray's latest Slow Match Report on Rangers' heroic draw with Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League quarter-finalAnd still to come....* The exclusive column from our tactics guy Adam Clery comparing Lewis Ferguson with Liam HendersonOnly paid subscribers to Nutmeg FC get every piece we produce straight to their inbox.This time on My Sporting Hero, our guest is Michael O'Neill.Portadown-born Michael played as a midfielder for several British clubs, including ones in Scotland where he is best remembered for spells at Dundee United and Hibernian. As a young man he set top-flight Newcastle ablaze with a stunning opening season. He moved to Tannadice and eventually fell out with notoriously thrawn United managerial legend Jim McLean. He also played over 30 times for Northern Ireland.Michael started out in management at Brechin City, made Shamrock Rovers Irish champions and led them into Europe, before taking the reins at Northern Ireland. He achieved the nation's first-ever qualification for the European Championship and progression to the second round of the finals in France in 2016. He also rescued Stoke City from relegation danger when he first joined the Potters.Michael is currently enjoying his second spell as Northern Ireland manager.His sporting hero is ‘Superbrat' and all-round tennis genius/guru John McEnroe.Nutmeg FC | Substack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.nutmegfc.co.uk/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.nutmegfc.co.ukWelcome to a new episode of the My Sporting Hero podcast, part of Nutmeg FC. The home of brilliant football stories – made in Scotland.So far this month, Nutmeg FC subscribers have enjoyed....* Nick Harris' brilliant analysis of the possible American takeover of Rangers* An exclusive column from our tactics guy Adam Clery about Ryan Christie at Bournemouth* The Motherwell v St Mirren Slow Match Report from the brilliant Daniel GrayOnly paid subscribers to Nutmeg FC get every piece we produce straight to their inbox.This time on My Sporting Hero, our guest is Lewis Stevenson.A product of Hibernian FC's youth academy, Lewis, doubling as a left-back and a midfielder, made more league appearances for the club than any other player. He is the only Hibs player to have won both the League Cup and – in that famous 2016 final victory over Rangers – Scottish Cup. He was man of the match in the 2007 League Cup final demolition of Kilmarnock.Now in the twilight of his playing career, Kirkcaldy-born Lewis plays for Championship side Raith Rovers.Lewis played alongside numerous talents during his time at Easter Road, and he chose as his sporting hero ex-teammate and Scotland and Aston Villa midfield superman John McGinn.It was the evolution of John that impressed me. I remember watching him playing for St Mirren in a game against Celtic. John had a skinhead and he was giving Victor Wanyama, who was the top player in the league at the time, a really hard time. I thought to myself, “Who is that guy?” I always took a shine to the way John played and when he came to Hibs, I couldn't believe how good he was.However, what was most important for me was what a great guy he was. He wears his heart on his sleeve, but off the pitch he would do anything for you. Some people never get to meet the heroes, but I've been lucky in that I've got to meet John McGinn. Sometimes you see these sporting heroes, and they're almost like film stars, so it's hard to relate to them. But that's not the case with John. Any youngster could look up to him.He's got a great family behind him and I think that's been part of his success. His mum and dad were really supportive. I played with John's older brother Stephen, and I knew of the other brother Paul, and I think the rivalry he had with his brothers pushed him on. I speak highly of John, but I can speak equally as highly of his family. People see him running about on the football pitch but they don't realise the hard work and the support he's had behind the scenes. I remember a game against St Mirren, and Stephen had John in his back pocket that night! Neil Lennon said to him, “Super John McGinn? You're not even the best player in your own ******* house!”I always thought John was a really good player, but the way his career went compared to other boys in the Hibs team is testament to him. He's probably had some sticky moments in his career but he's come through the other side with flying colours. Even in training, John wanted to be in the winning team. We used to play young versus old, and John was in the young team at the time and the old boys had their number and you could tell how much it hurt him. If the old boys won the game, they would let you know about it, and John played those games like it was a World Cup final. I think watching him now, that's the attitude he's kept. He's playing with some of the best players in the world, he's playing against some of the best players in the world, and he gives his best and he holds his own.Maybe scouts looking at him thought his play didn't look natural, so maybe that's why it took him a wee bit longer to get that move. But what an amazing bit of business it was for Aston Villa to sign him. He'll be an absolute legend there. He went there when they were in the Championship, and was an integral part of getting them up. He's kicked on, and he's got the captaincy. He's played Europa League and now Champions League; it's unbelievable. For me to sit on a Saturday night and watch a guy on Match of the Day who I played with – there's nobody rooting for him more than me and my family.At Hibs, I could give him the ball from left-back in our own third and he would shuffle past people, switch the ball, and be on the end of a cross – he could do absolutely everything. It was a good Hibs team back then, with players like Dylan McGeouch, Fraser Fyvie and Scott Allan, but it's just the way John's been able to kick on. There are a lot of people who go and do well, and you think “that's brilliant”, but you're proper rooting for John. With the national team and everything, everyone gets behind him, and wants him to do well. It helps that he's such a supportive guy. Sometimes you think, “Oh, he must have forgotten about me by now” and then he'll pop up with a message asking how I'm getting on. After Hibs played at Aston Villa he came to our hotel and had a coffee with us, and he gave my son a signed top; it's little touches like that which mean a lot to people.No matter what he does at Aston Villa, I think it will be hard to get close to the feeling of winning the Scottish Cup with Hibs. We had a great camaraderie, and with the various nationalities at Aston Villa, the changing room will be different to what he was used to up here. And when things aren't going well, he's the kind of guy that can give you a lift. It doesn't look like he's changed a bit. When people try and change and be somebody they are not, people can see right through it. So, you're best to be your own person and for him it's working perfectly.We needed somebody to step up for Scotland, and it was John. Even when the team's not doing well, he shoulders that burden. There's been so many Scotland games where he's popped up with a goal. You hear things like, “Oh, maybe this is the end of John McGinn at Aston Villa,” and then he steps up a few weeks later and he's the main man again, and he's played in loads of different positions at Villa. He's had to adapt his game. He's probably not as physical as he once was; he's probably more tactical now.I always remember he would be the one who could settle a game in those crazy moments. As a full-back, I'd love the way he could just do something to get us out of trouble. He has an unbelievable talent, and I think he doesn't get the praise he deserves for his actual ability because he can do a lot of things with a football, and he had one of the highest top speeds at Hibs. It's just pure power and you wouldn't want to get in the way when he's running. He could still play for another four or five years at the top level and I hope I'll be sitting watching him on TV after I've hung up my boots.He does not look out of place in the Premier League one bit. He'll take things in from coaches and he'll learn things. He studies the game and knows everything about every league in Britain, and about opposition teams. He'll know inside out what they're going to do and what their weaknesses might be.He comes across as this jovial figure, but he's got that steely determination that all the best players in the world have. When we played against Rangers and Celtic, John thought we could go toe-to-toe with them. He might not have been the captain, but he was the driving force that made us believe that. Being mentally strong is probably even more important than being physically strong at his level.Nutmeg FC | Substack

Welcome to a new episode of the My Sporting Hero podcast, part of Nutmeg FC. The home of brilliant football stories - made in Scotland. So far this month, Nutmeg FC subscribers have enjoyed....Nick Harris' brilliant analysis of the possible American takeover of Rangers And still to come.... Exclusive columns from our tactics guy Adam Clery and footballer Steven NaismithPlus the Slow Match Report from the brilliant Daniel Gray Only paid subscribers to Nutmeg FC get every piece we produce straight to their inbox.This time on My Sporting Hero, our guest is Stephen McGinn.Stephen recently retired from a successful playing career in Scotland and England, including two spells at St Mirren, Watford, Sheffield United, Kilmarnock and Falkirk. He won the Scottish Championship title with St Mirren in 2018 and Killie in 2022.Stephen is now a youth coach with St Mirren and is the brother of Scotland and Aston Villa star John and Motherwell defender Paul.Stephen's sporting hero is former Chelsea talisman Frank Lampard. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.nutmegfc.co.uk/subscribe

A Hearts-mad kid had photos of the club's greatest scorer on his bedroom wall… and ended up being his captain.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.nutmegfc.co.uk/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.nutmegfc.co.ukWhy the Rocket is adored and how playing snooker could be Zen for the modern footballer.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.nutmegfc.co.ukThe Swiss midfielder's pop at his own fans struck an effing marvellous blow for football's scapegoats everywhere.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg called Nutmeg FC. Find out more and subscribe at nutmegfc.co.uk

Walking out with the King of Kings – a Former Match Mascot Remembers…This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now Get full access to Nutmeg FC at www.nutmegfc.co.uk/subscribe

Rangers' great Dane embodied how the truly gifted make this beautiful game look easy.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

A starry-eyed Burnley fanatic had to blame his tears on hay fever when majestic winger's Turf Moor era came to an end.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

A council-house kid worships Liverpool's greatest scorer. Then, one day, he plays alongside him for Wales.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Resilience, will to win, dry humour and sheer talent. Why Dunblane's favourite son is beloved by other Scottish sports stars.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

From flying wingers to cocky golfers, let's hear it for sport's shorter guys who had to get their elbows out to get ahead.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

The trouble with having a genius as your first boss is you think all your subsequent managers will be as special.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

It's not easy being an English cricket fan in a Scottish football changing room, but Hibernian's captain can't help but tip his cap to the awesome all-rounder.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Medal-laden Liverpool midfielder Craig Johnston was magnificent for more than just his hairdo. Here's how he blazed a trail for fellow Aussies.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

How elegance, fierce competitiveness and Swiss swagger struck a chord with a starry-eyed Canadian kid.This episode is produced in partnership with the official Celtic FC podcast. Please subscribe at Official Celtic FC PodcastThis podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

From watching your idol from the Easter Road terracing to playing alongside him… how one Hibs legend helped create another.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Dundee boss Docherty recalls how King Kenny's Scotland goals made him want to reach for the stars.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Falkirk captain Coll Donaldson eulogises Gridiron great who caught a break and went on to win record seven Super Bowls.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Ex-Hibs winger Kevin Harper found black role model in the maestro of the basketball court.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Former Chelsea wing star Pat Nevin found that meeting your childhood idol can be a wonderful experience.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Gifted former Celtic winger Aiden McGeady explains why late Argentinian genius' bad boy edge made him irresistible.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Purist Yogi pays homage to football's Spanish mastermindThis podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Estoril manager argues that late basketball superstar's winning mentality was second to none.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Kilmarnock captain explains how the greatest of all time inspired him to never give upThis podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

The former Aberdeen and Celtic midfielder selects one all-time great from either side of the Old FirmThis podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

'He was just cool.' The Partick Thistle legend grew up adoring the original King of Celtic Park - the haircut, the goals and the joy This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Midfield maestro explains how she followed Liverpool legend's triumphs and heartbreaksThis podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Ayr United manager reflects on missing out on seeing his idol and playing with Scots golf stars.This podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris, and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

As the future Scotland manager watched the three-time Open champion on television, he felt a share of the joy that Ballesteros beamed out to the worldThis podcast is part of a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox.You'll get topical columns from leading players and journalists, The Nutmeg Mysteries – uncovering strange episodes in our game's past, fascinating rummages into football finance with Sporting Intelligence's Nick Harris and Daniel Gray's Slow Match Report.These digital dispatches will come to you via the brilliant publishing platform Substack. Just pop in your email. No apps. No faff.Subscribe for free now This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Hello Nutmeg listener,Starting next week, Monday, August 5, we are launching a new, digital version of Nutmeg that will give you more of the Nutmeg stories you love, straight to your email inbox: original thinking and high-quality audio at least twice a week.On this feed, you'll hear a new weekly show called My Sporting Hero – footballers telling you all about an athlete who inspired them.That starts on Wednesday, with Craig Levein talking about Seve Ballesteros – and there'll be a new one every Wednesday.All you have to do to receive all of this brand new Nutmeg content directly to your email inbox is to click on the below link.That will take you to Substack – enter your email address in the box and that's it. Job done. You're on the team.New storytelling for the new season. We hope you like the sound of that. SUBSCRIBE TO NUTMEG NOW This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nutmegfootball.substack.com

Good day! Please have a think about trying our print magazine, via nutmegmagazine.co.ukIn this War of the Roses special, Dundee United's ex-Motherwell Lancastrian Liam Grimshaw joins Yorkshireman and Nutmeg magazine editor Daniel Gray for a conversational meander from his youth days at Manchester United to Tannadice times now. On the way, there is talk of Liam's writing career, cricket, Scotland's best chippies, a Burnley delicacy, his Cappielow admiration and what these two Englishmen love about Scottish football. Support the showCome on over to our revamped website and give our print offering a try: Take me to your wonderful words

Hello! Please have a think about trying our print magazine, via nutmegmagazine.co.ukIn this honest and emotional conversation, two footballers – Andy Munro and Kerr Fraser – and one manager – Greig McDonald – discuss mental health struggles within football, and how the game deals with them. They are joined by Libby Emmerson from the Back Onside charity and Saumya Khullar from Oriam, Scotland's Sports Performance Centre. Together, they run a programme for footballers facing mental health struggles around long-term physical injuries.Support the showCome on over to our revamped website and give our print offering a try: Take me to your wonderful words

Best known for his starring role in Taggart, the actor Colin McCredie is a diehard St Johnstone supporter. Here, he discusses Saints' astounding cup winning season with Nutmeg editor Daniel Gray. Before that, Colin tells us of life as one of the 25th Perthshire Cubs' star players, flying coins behind the Muirton Park goal and a rammy between John Lambie and Denzil from Only Fools and Horses. Escapism as good as any drama.Support the showCome on over to our revamped website and give our print offering a try: Take me to your wonderful words

From Joy Division to the delight of a crisp one-two, here is part two of our engrossing chat with the Rangers WFC midfielder, Tessel Middag.This time, Tessel talks us through her transfer to Manchester City and then swapping Corrie for Eastenders with a move to West Ham United. There is World Cup jubilation and ACL devastation (twice), a discussion of the need for trade unions in football and a fascinating account of Tuscan life in lockdown following Tessel's move to Fiorentina. Plus, first steps in punditry and reasons for joining the delightful world of Scottish football with Rangers. Please give our beautiful print magazine a try. See: https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

Rangers WFC midfielder Tessel Middag began her career with Den Haag, then played for her childhood heroes Ajax, before moving on to Manchester City, West Ham United and Fiorentina, representing the Netherlands national team 44 times along the way. In the first half of this fascinating, entertaining chat with Daniel Gray, Tessel talks us through the street games and pavement bounces of her youth, playing in boys' teams until the age of 18 and her  pride in representing the very first Ajax women's team. Plus, anger and amusement in the archives as Tessel talks about the historical suppression of women's football, Likely Lads score avoidance and the joys of ‘next goal wins'.Please give our beautiful print magazine a try. See: https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

Dusting down the My Favourite Year feature like a pair of old trousers that just about still fit, Daniel Gray is joined by BBC journalist Giancarlo Rinaldi who nominates Queen of the South's 2012/13 season. The pair discuss Scots-Italian life, Giancarlo's 1990s Italian football fanzine, football and family and the beauty of Palmerston Park before meandering their way through Queens' sublime championship-winning year. A joyous portion of chitchat. Please give our beautiful print magazine a try. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

In this special episode of the Nutmeg podcast, we go behind the scenes with our sponsor, Oriam – Scotland's Sports Performance Centre, and hear about their football scholarships, offered in conjunction with Heriot Watt University. As part of that programme, as you'll hear, students earn their degree while pursuing footballing excellence in a set-up that replicates a modern football club. Those players feed into the squad of Heriot Watt University FC, members of the East of Scotland League. A fascinating look at a very modern approach to the game.Never read Nutmeg magazine? We have offers on back issues and subscriptions. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

Michael Devlin and his former Aberdeen team-mate – and ex-Watford man – Tommie Hoban take us inside footballers' lives again. The pair talk about Tommie's terrifying call in which he told the Crewe Alexandra manager that he was quitting the game aged 27 and what happened next. They discuss feeling like the elephant in the room, the problems of being an over-thinker and putting the hours of spare time footballers have to good use. Never read Nutmeg magazine? We have offers on back issues and subscriptions. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

Michael Devlin updates Daniel Gray on his move to Fleetwood and hitting a maximum high before a crushing low in the space of a few days. Then, Michael's former Aberdeen team-mate Tommie Hoban joins him again - Michael felt there was still more to discuss about Tommie's decision to suddenly quit the game aged 27, and other revealing topics about the sheer fragility of being a footballer. Never read Nutmeg magazine? We have offers on back issues and subscriptions. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

In the second part of this fascinating conversation, Clyde FC footballing brothers Peter and Raymond Grant chat with their Dad, also Peter, who played hundreds of games for Celtic and Norwich among others before a top flight coaching career. They are joined by Nutmeg's Daniel Gray. This time, the three discuss the nomadic life of a football family, worrying about each other from the sidelines and the wonder of watching Premier League training sessions as children. Never read Nutmeg magazine? We have offers on back issues and subscriptions. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

Brothers Peter and Raymond Grant both play for Clyde. Their Dad, also Peter, played hundreds of games for Celtic and Norwich among others before a stellar coaching career. Here, in the first part of a unique, fascinating chat, the three tell Nutmeg's Daniel Gray their story.There is conversation about best atmospheres played in and the “buzzing" sound that Old Firm noise becomes from the pitch. They talk too of coaching instructions from the sidelines, including speculation over what is really written on the notes modern managers hand to their players. And, the trio talk family life – playing as sons of a footballer father, the love and sacrifice of a footballing Mum and why being good people is more important than being good players. A compelling listen.Part two will follow in a fortnight.Never read Nutmeg magazine? We have offers on back issues and subscriptions. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

Aged 27, former Watford defender Tommie Hoban suddenly quit football. In the second part of this latest Player Take Over episode of the podcast, Tommie chats with his former Aberdeen teammate Michael Devlin about the mental damage of long-term injuries. The centre-half pairing also talk about the way injury changes a player's game, its effects on a footballer's homelife and how not playing can lead to an identity crisis. Tommie discusses his time at Blackburn Rovers, his spell with Aberdeen and finally understanding how to put football in its rightful place and enjoy life. Never read Nutmeg magazine? We have offers on back issues and subscriptions. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

Aged 27, former Watford defender Tommie Hoban suddenly quit football. In this latest Player Take Over episode of the podcast, his former Aberdeen teammate Michael Devlin, and Nutmeg's Daniel Gray, ask him about a childhood spent with Arsenal, non-league struggles, establishing himself at Vicarage Road and his early attitude to injuries. They talk too of the pressures placed on promising teenager footballers, a debut asthma attack, squad initiation songs and signing yourself on Football Manager.Before all of that, Dan catches up with Mikey about his progress since their last recording, including a Lancashire trial, Blackpool amusements and making toasties in trouser presses. And Tommie will join Mikey and Dan again next time, picking up the conversation and bringing us to that decision to retire early. Never read Nutmeg magazine? We have offers on back issues and subscriptions. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

What does it feel like when a footballer is suddenly told he is no longer wanted? In the Player Take Over this time, Clyde's ex-Falkirk defender Peter Grant talks Daniel Gray through that exact scenario, played out for him at the beginning of this summer when he was released by Queen's Park. In a raw, honest and reflective conversation, Peter discusses the impact of that decision, the dilemma over whether to give up on full-time football and the constant uncertainty of a career in the game. He talks too about the joy of playing alongside his brother, Ray, at Clyde, and asks Dan about fan perceptions of footballer lifestyles. Like Michael Devlin, Peter will be back in future episodes to bring in friends (and relatives) from across the game. Never read Nutmeg magazine? We have offers on back issues and subscriptions. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

Bedtimes and boxer shorts, superstitions and the same pasta sauce… In the Player Take Over this time, Daniel Gray meets Clyde's ex-Falkirk and Queen's Park defender Peter Grant to talk Routines and Rituals. In this breezy but informative conversation, the two discuss pre-match food from a footballer and fan viewpoint, the things players and supporters eat and wear to make their teams win and Don Revie's fear of ornamental elephants. Plus, coffee confusion, cans in Starbuck's and biscuit bans. Like Michael Devlin, Peter will be back in future episodes to talk individually and bring in friends (and relatives) from across the game. Never read Nutmeg magazine? We have offers on back issues and subscriptions. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

What does it feel like to suffer fan abuse as a footballer? What are the effects on mental health of long term player injuries? How does it feel to be called a 'wage thief'? In this new series format, presenter Daniel Gray is joined by a number of footballers and football types to discuss what matters to them in an honest and open Nutmeg fashion. This is the Player Take Over.For the first two episodes, Scotland cap Michael Devlin is our guest, and after that we'll be bringing in colleagues of his to go inside the game. In this second one-on-one episode, Dan and Michael dig deep into the traumas of long-term injury and its effects on mental health. They talk through footballer/fan relationships, including the effects on players of verbal abuse, and celebrate the little moments that make us love the game.Never read Nutmeg magazine? We have offers on back issues and subscriptions. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopSupport the show

The stadium has had a fresh link of paint, the fixtures are out and we are back. In this new series format, presenter Daniel Gray is joined by a number of footballers and football types to discuss what matters to them in an honest and open Nutmeg fashion. This is the Player Take Over.For the first two episodes, Scotland cap Michael Devlin is our guest, and after that we'll be bringing in colleagues of his to go inside the game. In this ‘getting to know you' introductory podcast, Dan and Michael discuss what it is like to play in a hammering, player and supporter reactions to defeat, trade unions and football, footballers' on holiday and much more. They also run through why they wanted to make this podcast series, and the topics they'll be covering in future episodes.Never read Nutmeg magazine? We have offers on back issues and subscriptions. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shopPlease help us make this podcast by joining Nutmeg FC on Patreon. Your money keeps us going and gets you some goodies: https://www.patreon.com/nutmegfcSupport the show

Opening our new strand of podcast documentaries, Daniel Gray tells the incredible tale of the Basque refugee children exiled to Britain during the Spanish Civil War who became professional footballers. Theirs is a compelling, life-affirming story of heartbreak, horror and heroism, and a journey from blitzkrieg to the Bernabeu via Ibrox, Guernica, Alf Ramsey and László Kubala. Never read Nutmeg magazine? We have offers on back issues and subscriptions. See https://www.nutmegmagazine.co.uk/shop Please help us make this podcast by joining Nutmeg FC on Patreon. Your money keeps us going and gets you some goodies: https://www.patreon.com/nutmegfcSupport the show (http://www.patreon.com/nutmegfc)