Whistleblowers
Whistleblowers is a football podcast that reveals the untold stories behind the game. Hosted by Gordon Smart, alongside former elite referee Mark Clattenburg and veteran journalist Ian Ladyman, the show offers insider perspectives on refereeing, club crises, and the hidden workings of football. It aims to provide a fresh, authoritative take on the sport with humor and insight. Produced by the Daily Mail.
Episodes
Clattenburg Answers YOUR Rule Change Questions!
Whistleblowers is going to America! And in the final bonus ball before the off, Ian Ladyman and Gordon Smart find out all the ins and outs of the new footballing regulations to be put in place for the tournament from our resident refereeing expert, Mr Mark Clattenburg!Yellow cards, VAR expansions, mouth covering…all will be explained!A reminder that you will get THREE brand new episodes of Whistle
THE WORLD CUP PREVIEW SHOW!
Whistleblowers is going to America! As Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart prepare to hop across the pond to cover all things World Cup 2026, they took some time to preview the largest global tournament in the history of the game!How far does England get? Will Jude Bellingham start a single game? Will Jordan Henderson be the saviour of the Three Lions? Will Scotland manage to get out o
Arsenal will NOT RETURN to the UCL Final anytime soon!
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! Before they swan of the other side of the pond, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart get together to break down their thoughts on Arsenal’s UCL Final collapse and where Arteta’s boys in red go next, before Ian makes a bold prediction about next season’s European competition!Meanwhile, the lads marvel at Anthony Gordon’s linguistic capabilities as he jets
This World Cup was NEVER for the Punters
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week’s Bonus Ball, the boys are talking money - Ian Ladyman, Gordon Smart and Mark Clattenburg ask just how much is TOO much for football fans to pay, as we see prices for next month’s tournament increase week on week…Meanwhile, Mark reveals how much World Cup referees are really paid, and Ian tells us his surprising summer tournament habit that he hasn’t br
England's BIGGEST World Cup Worry won't be the Opposition!
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In the wake of the bombshell Tuchel England Squad announcement on Friday, Ian Ladyman, Mark Clattenburg, and Gordon Smart reunite to break down all the trials and tribulations this crop of players will have to face stateside…Plus, Ian tells us the inside scoops from the League Manager Awards and who might be in line for the England job, before revealing Big Sam’s hi
LADYMAN: Salah is DESTROYING his Liverpool Legacy
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week’s bonus ball, Ian Ladyman returns to his rightful place alongside Gordon Smart and Mark Clattenburg as he reveals the behind the scenes details from his recent interview with David Platt!Plus, the boys are talking legacy; will Pep’s be tarnished by City’s alleged rules breaches? Will Salah’s be harmed beyond repair after his recent bridge burning at Anf
Is this the start of a Generation of Arsenal DOMINANCE?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Ian Ladyman, Mark Clattenburg, and Gordon Smart are all back together to discuss the aftermath of Arsenal’s historic Premier League title under 'Big' Mikel Arteta…and a rumoured club fine for their partying!Meanwhile, the boys chat about the earth-shattering news of Pep’s departure from the Sky Blues, the latest developments in Southampton’s ‘Spygate’ sca
Ten Years of Pep Guardiola with Jack Gaughan!
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! Jack Gaughan returns for this week’s bonus ball to discuss all things Pep Guardiola with Mark and Gordon ahead of the release of his five-part Mail exclusive series celebrating ten years of the Catalan at Manchester City!Jack reveals his most touching moment with the man himself and suggests where Pep’s most likely next destination is after leaving the Sky Blues…Whi
Ex-referee Mark Clattenburg says pundits are DAMAGING the game
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Mark Clattenburg and Gordon Smart welcome fellow Mail journo from the North Jack Gaughan, as he deputises off the bench for an injured Ian Ladyman! Jack, Mark, and Gordon waste no time in debating what is wrong with corners, who is really damaging the game we all love, and what punishment the most recent Spygate incident might warrant…Plus, Jack gives his
From U20 to Champions League: The fascinating bond between Clattenburg & Casemiro
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week’s bonus ball welcomes back Katie Shanahan as she, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart discuss their memories of some of the biggest names inside and outside the game during their youth…Meanwhile, Mark reveals the player who he got on best with from the very first match in an Under-20 World Cup to a Champions League Final...Plus, everyone remini
Ladyman: Rice must do THIS to become an elite Prem Midfielder!
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week’s bumper-packed show, Gordon Smart, Ian Ladyman, and Mark Clattenburg are joined by TalkSport and ITV legend Katie Shanahan as they break down the big question after the Champions League Semi-Finals…Why does everyone hate Arsenal fans?Plus, the team looks into John Terry’s managerial hopes and relive some of football’s greatest interview head-losses, be
Clattenburg: Winning the League may be Pep's GREATEST Achievement
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week’s bonus ball, Ian Ladyman, Mark Clattenburg, and Special Guest Joel Beya debate their picks for the season’s best - and worst - managerial performances!Did Andoni Iraola shine brightest? Has Oliver Glasner burnt all his bridges? Was Regis Le Bris the League’s real dark horse? And has Arne Slot had even worse of a season that we realise? All will be reve
Is The Special One DESTINED for Newcastle?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Ian Ladyman takes the reins as he and Mark Clattenburg are joined by friend of the show Joel Beya to relive arguably the greatest game of football in Champions League history, before getting down to brass tacks as Joel reveals exactly how true Arsenal fans are feeling!Meanwhile, the lads discuss the rumoured return of Jose Mourinho to the Bernabeu, before
“THIS MATCH is better than the Champions League final!”
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week’s bumper bonus ball, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart break down Mark’s appearance at the Sidemen Charity Match to explore just how the football industry is changing, and how much fans value connection and entertainment over sporting merit…Plus, find out what special Scottish gift Gordon has in store for the other two!Whistleblowers | Foo
'BORING!' What is TRULY going wrong at Chelsea?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week’s episode, Mark Clattenburg, Gordon Smart and Ian Ladyman take a deep dive into Liam Rosenior’s explosion after another Chelsea defeat, before asking what is truly going wrong at Leicester as the Foxes face yet another relegation…Meanwhile, the Mark and Ian get heated over Eddie Howe’s treatment at Newcastle as the former ref gets touchy about his belov
When will we see a PERMANENT female head coach in the top 5 men’s leagues?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week’s bonus ball, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart discuss the recent appointment of Marie-Louise Eta as the first female coach for a top-flight men’s side and ask the question; is this a watershed moment for genuine change, or is it merely tokenism?Plus, find out who the boys think are this season’s best and worst signings…Mark’s choices may
Mark Clattenburg says THIS RULE would change top-flight football
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart weigh in on the hair-pulling epidemic that is plaguing football, and discover the fundamental flaws it reveals in the way VAR is used throughout the game.Plus, the boys talk about the rule changes they’d like to see implemented to make the game better, and Ian tells us the ‘pathetic’ tactic destroying the ga
The Art of the Press Conference!
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week’s bonus ball, Mark Clattenburg and Gordon Smart are once again joined by Mr Andy Dillon as they look at Ian’s spiky press conference battle with Arne Slot, asking the deceptively simple question; what’s the knack to getting the most out of a presser? Meanwhile, Andy reveals the huge Arsenal player he had a coming together with at Highbury!Plus, we find
What's REALLY Going Wrong at West Ham
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Gordon Smart and Mark Clattenburg are joined by the one and only Mr Andy Dillon to talk all things West Ham ahead of their do-or-die game against Wolves! The boys look back at the FA Cup madness, Nuno's folly at not starting his best players, and the 'bonkers' decisions that caused chaos at the London Stadium...Meanwhile, Gordon asks Mark and Andy what th
Clattenburg: Why I QUIT Refereeing
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week's bonus ball, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart chat about the Canadian Premier League's introduction of Wenger's 'daylight' offside rule...and the ex-referee has some strong thoughts!Plus, Mark reveals the real reason he quit top-level refereeing when he did, and the boys discuss Tiger Woods and whether sport does enough to protect its st
Is De Zerbi Spurs' Biggest MISTAKE this Season?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart weigh in on Spurs’ latest managerial mix-up and discuss whether choosing De Zerbi was really the best choice for a club like Tottenham…Meanwhile, the boys discuss age in football, give their thoughts on the bombshell dropped by Marc Cucurella in the Chelsea dressing room, and debate the best ways to eat a Cr
Our TOP Managerial Picks of the Season!
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week's bonus ball, Ian Ladyman, Mark Clattenburg, and Gordon Smart make the most of the Premier League's international break to talk about which managers they think have had the best seasons...so far...Plus, find out the behind the scenes gossip on Gordon's crazy photoshoot, and which incident told Mark all he needed to know about Jurgen Klopp!Whistleblowers
Are Newcastle Fans LOYAL to Eddie Howe?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Ian Ladyman, Mark Clattenburg, and Gordon Smart take a trip up to Mark’s beloved North East to ask a question: should Newcastle fans count themselves lucky to have a manager like Eddie Howe? And moreover, how can he and the PIF stop the club falling behind?Meanwhile, the boys discuss whether Mo Salah truly is Liverpool’s best ever striker, and Ian shows o
How fit are Referees REALLY?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week’s Bonus Ball, Mark Clattenburg tells Gordon Smart and Ian Ladyman just what it took for him to stay fit as a top flight referee, and gives the others some advice!Meanwhile, Ian updates us on his half-marathon aspirations and Gordon chats about going in front of the cameras in the buff!Whistleblowers | Football From The Inside OutHosts: Gordon Smart, Mar
Is this the END for Pep Guardiola?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Gordon Smart, Ian Ladyman and Mark Clattenburg discuss Pep’s future after a lacklustre Premier League season and an ignominious exit from the Champions League before asking the question…is this the time for Pep to hang up his boots?Plus, find out what ‘garbage’ incensed Mark over the weekend and the boys’ thoughts on the football regulator’s proposed chan
Guard of Honour? Performative Nonsense!
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! Fresh off their conversation with the one and only Lee Dixon, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart look towards the end of the season and the infamous guard of honour to ask the question…is it a valid celebration, or is it just performative nonsense??Ian doesn’t hold back, and Gordon can’t face the idea of his Hibs having to perform one for Hearts in a fe
Lee Dixon talks Arsenal and the Greatest Era of Football
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this very special episode, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart are joined by Mr Lee Dixon to reminisce about football’s Golden Years - find out how Lee got the best of David Ginola, how George Graham got them fired up that time Arsenal missed kick-off, and just what Arsene Wenger whispered in his ear that night…Plus, the boys ask whether any of the cu
Clattenburg: "I just bounced off him!"
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week’s bonus ball, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart chat about how Mark found his career transition away from football, and how other players and managers have managed the shift - before Mark reveals the ex-pros who've still got it on the pitch...Plus, find out which manager Ian had to manage in the buff! (The manager, not Ian!)Whistleblowers
Is IFAB just 'P***ING around the edges'?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, the boys are back together, and Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman and Gordon Smart break down the IFAB’s new rules and the impact (or LACK of impact) it will have on football, before before asking a ver simple question; with all these changes, is football even enjoyable anymore?Meanwhile, Mark tells us just why Pierluigi Colina said he was one of the best in
Who was Dean Windass’ HARDEST Opponent?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this very special bonus ball, Mark Clattenburg, Gordon Smart, and Ian’s best mate Andy Dillon are once again joined by the one and only, Hull City legend Dean Windass! They talk hard-men opponents and how the dressing room culture has changed in football since Dean’s days at the top of the game.Meanwhile, Dean chats about the biggest run-ins he had with football
Dean Windass: “That Goal changed my life for good…and for bad”
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this very special episode, Mark Clattenburg, Gordon Smart, and Ian’s best mate Andy Dillon are joined by the one and only, Hull City legend Dean Windass - the boys reminisce about that playoff final goal, Dean’s record breaking THREE red cards in one game for Aberdeen, and the manager he had the biggest falling out with.Plus, Dean opens up about his struggles aft
“BIASED!” - How do we put OUR allegiances aside?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week’s bonus ball, Mark Clattenburg and Gordon Smart are once again joined by the Mail’s Jack Gaughan as they discuss how they put their personal affiliations aside to stay professional in the heat of the game…and Mark tells us which Premier League manager accused him of failing to do so!Plus, Mark and Jack get down and dirty about the Premier League’s VAR n
Is this a TURNING POINT for Scottish Football?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Gordon Smart and Mark Clattenburg are joined by the Mail’s Scottish football correspondent John McGarry and staff writer Jack Gaughan to find out just why the Scottish Premiership is turning out to be one of Europe’s best leagues, and which of the three (or four?) teams have a real shot at the title.Meanwhile, Jack enlightens us on the current state of th
What's Going WRONG with Punditry?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this bonus ball, Ian, Mark, and Gordon ask what's going wrong with punditry nowadays, and what makes a good pundit - turns out, it's not as complicated as you might think!Plus, the boys reminisce on their personal best footballing memories and Ian tells us about his best ever (nearly) goal...Whistleblowers | Football From The Inside OutHosts: Gordon Smart, Mark C
Frank OUT...Poch IN??
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this jam-packed episode, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart react to the news of Thomas Frank's sacking from Spurs, the chances that Mauricio Pochettino might make a surprise north London return, and which manager is next on the chopping block...Plus, Mark breaks down the weekend's refereeing madness, Danny Baker has a pop at Ian, and the boys talk L
Should We Have More Sympathy For Players?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week's bonus ball, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart talk about the impacts the football industry has on those that make it what it is; the players. After the debacle with Dwight McNeil, they ask whether we should have more sympathy for players in the face of uncertainty and instability...Meanwhile, Mark opens up about the difficulties he had w
Ladyman: "I don't know what it is...but it's NOT Sport"
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart tackle some of the week's biggest talking points; Should Rodri be banned by the FA for calling Premier League refs corrupt? With the government owning 75% of each of the top four clubs, should the Saudi league even be considered sport? Plus, Mark tells the lads some of his craziest stories from the Middle Ea
Our BEST Deadline Day Stories
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week's bonus episode, Ian Ladyman, Mark Clattenburg, and Gordon Smart bring you their best deadline day dramas and the inside scoop on the inner workings of football's busiest days!Find out who's career was derailed by a dodgy fax, and just how much say some players have in their big moves...Whistleblowers | Football From The Inside OutHosts: Gordon Smart, M
Why do Managers just keep going?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart discuss those managers that just don't quit - from Mark Hughes at Carlisle United, all the way to Owen Coyle at Jamshedpur in India and Phil Brown at Peterborough Sports, some coaches just keep going and the boys want to know why...Plus, find out exactly what Mark thinks about Pep's recent outburst, and what
Which Players Never Fulfilled their Potential?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart try to answer one of football's most interesting questions: which players come to mind when you hear unfulfilled potential?Struck by an injury? Poor transfers? Plain old bad luck? Whatever the reason, the boys take an in-depth look at those players lost to the annals of footballing history. Meanwhile, the la
Beckham, The Class of '92, and a Question of Pressure
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart take an in-depth look at David Beckham and the legacy of the Class of '92 both within Manchester United and further afield. All three have had rare glimpses behind the curtain of 'Brand Beckham' and their stories need to be heard to be believed!Plus, the impact of the Class of '92 on Manchester United and th
Does Football Journalism have a Jealousy Problem?
This week in the Whistleblowers Bonus Ball, Mark Clattenburg asks Ian Ladyman and his good friend Andy Dillon how they as journalists managed relationships - personal and professional - while working as on-the-beat reporters, and the two Fleet Street veterans reveal just how cut-throat a world it can be…Meanwhile, Mark tells us why tournament refereeing can be so toxic, and which referee he was pi
Spurs and West Ham - Football's WORST Managed Derby?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Ian Ladyman takes the reins alongside Mark Clattenburg and friend of the show Andy Dillon to discuss exactly what is wrong with West Ham, whether the club could survive relegation, and what do you do with a problem like Paqueta...Meanwhile, the lads are joined by Spurs creator Ben Bowman to chat about Tottenham's sorry state of affairs before the two team
Head Coach or Manager...What does it Matter?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart debate an often overlooked topic; Head Coach or Manager - what's the difference, and does it even matter? Keep losing games and you get sacked either way...Meanwhile, Ian asks Mark who are the hardest personalities in football to referee, and Mr Clattenburg struggles to hide his true feelings!Whistleblowers
Culture Cams on WHO is to blame for Man United's Chaos
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! In this week's bumper episode, Mark, Ian, and Gordon have plenty to discuss after a chaotic week of manager sackings. They're joined by Culture Cams to take a deep dive into Amorim's sacking and whether he's solely to blame for United's crisis or the INEOS have dropped one too many balls...Meanwhile, the boys explore football's trend towards younger managers (spoile
Our Best Bits from 2025!
Happy New Year from Whistleblowers! We're taking a break this week, but thought we'd tide you over with a few of our favourite moments from the 2025 - from Mark letting loose, to Ian being called 'sad' by Terry Butcher, to Gordon destroying a priceless table, there's plenty to look back on fondly.So sit back, enjoy, and we'll see you in 2026!Whistleblowers | Football From The Inside OutHosts: Gord
Our New Year's Predictions and Resolutions!
Happy New Year from Whistleblowers! In this bonus episode, Mark, Ian, and Gordon look back and tear apart their predictions from he start of the pod, and make some more just for good measure!Plus, the lads talk about what footballing resolutions they want to make going forward into 2026...Whistleblowers | Football From The Inside OutHosts: Gordon Smart, Mark Clattenburg and Ian LadymanProducer: Wi
A Frosty Christmas for Celtic and United!
Merry Christmas from Whistleblowers! In this festive Christmas cracker, Mark, Gordon, and Ian chat about all things Celtic and United as they struggle to get on top of their current predicaments…Meanwhile, the boys discuss their best footballing memories from Christmases past, and the best presents they ever got!Whistleblowers | Football From The Inside OutHosts: Gordon Smart, Mark Clattenburg and
Should the Playoffs be CHANGED?
This week on Whistleblowers, Mark Clattenburg and Gordon Smart are back with Mr Joel Beya, as the lads chat about the importance of the playoffs and whether anything around the current system should be changed - Mark’s views are very clear!Meanwhile, Joel explains how he got into the world of football media, and how important his personal relationships are to making sure he can produce the best co
Joel Beya: The Table is FLATTERING United
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! Gordon Smart and Mark Clattenburg are once again joined by Mr Joel Beya - Back by popular demand! They lads discuss the fallout from Bruno Fernandes’ bombshell interview and whether Man United have even made any improvements since Ten Haag, before dissecting Enzo Maresca’s controversial words and what they mean for the modern football ‘soap opera’.Meanwhile, Mark te
Our BIGGEST Football Mistakes
This week on Whistleblowers, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart are back with Mr Joel Beya, as the boys discuss their biggest football mistakes - from buying tickets to the wrong game, to accidentally getting stuck in the away end…Plus, Ian and Gordon reveal which venues they’re not allowed back to, and Joel asks Mark for the refereeing decision he regrets to this very day.Don’t forge
Has Punditry gone too far?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! This week, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart are joined by friend of the podcast Joel Beya to discuss the chaos currently surrounding Mo Salah, and what the whole debacle has shown us about the state of modern punditry.Plus, Ian lets rip on Spurs' 15,000 empty seats, Joel gives us his opinions on the new Champions League format, and Mark tears apart on
Are Wolves the WORST Prem team in history?
This week on Whistleblowers, Mark Clattenburg, Gordon Smart, and Ian Ladyman are joined by the one and only Troopz TV, as they try to work out just how bad this current Wolves team actually is.Plus, Troopz has the opportunity to pose Mark a question he’s always wanted to ask, and he doesn’t pull his punches!Send Mark, Ian, and Gordon your questions at whistleblowers@dailymail.com, or drop them in
Troopz: Emery would have WON the league by now
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! Gordon Smart, Ian Ladyman and Mark Clattenburg are joined by Arsenal TV legend Troopz to talk all things Gunners, as he reveals his true thoughts on Mikel Arteta, goes in hard on Spurs’ dreadful record, and quizzes our resident ref on the latest VAR controversy.Meanwhile, Gordon tells us about the Scottish international who owns a chicken launcher, and Ian tears int
Should Danny Welbeck be TOP of Tuchel’s list?
This week on Whistleblowers, Mark Clattenburg, Gordon Smart and Ian Ladyman assess whether Danny Welbeck is the best backup for Harry Kane, and how likely Jack Grealish is to return to the England squad.Plus, the boys give us an unusual football travel guide and reveal some of their most insane post-match antics! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Clattenburg: Man United has LOST its Core Values
This week on Whistleblowers, Gordon Smart, Mark Clattenburg, and Ian Ladyman take a look at just what keeps going wrong at Manchester United, and why the Red Devils seem to have lost their soul.Meanwhile, Mark Clattenburg tells us the financial impact of a bad refereeing assessment, and the boys reveal their most unbelievable gambling stories.Whistleblowers | Football From The Inside OutHosts: Gor
The Premier League’s MOST Unappreciated Players
This week on Whistleblowers, Mark Clattenburg, Gordon Smart and Ian Ladyman answer a simple question - who is the most under-rated player in the Premier League?Meanwhile, the boys discuss the moments in their sporting lives that they wish they could change, and Gordon’s is as Scottish as it gets…Whistleblowers | Football From The Inside OutHosts: Gordon Smart, Mark Clattenburg and Ian LadymanProdu
Is Jude Bellingham Becoming a Problem for England’s World Cup Hopes?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers!Craig Hope emerges from his “nuclear bunker” to break down the chaos surrounding Jude Bellingham, petulance, England’s camp culture and Thomas Tuchel’s handling of it all.Ian and Gordon dig into whether the media are being fair, how many times the line can be drawn with a superstar, and what this means for England heading into the World Cup.They also dive into Scotla
The moment Mark Clattenburg thought his career was OVER
This week on Whistleblowers, Mark Clattenburg reveals the incident that almost ended his refereeing career, as well as the man who started it all.Meanwhile, Andy Dillon tells us why Muhammad Ali is his dream dinner party guest, and Gordon Smart shows us why football runs in his blood…literally!Whistleblowers | Football From The Inside OutHosts: Gordon Smart, Mark Clattenburg and Andy DillonProduce
Joey Barton Stories You’ll Never Forget
Welcome back to Whistleblowers! Gordon Smart is joined by Mark Clattenburg and Andy Dillon as they discuss: the state of refereeing, VAR controversies, and the madness of modern football culture.From Liverpool’s disallowed goal against Man City to American owners threatening legal action, nothing’s off limits. Clattenburg opens up on what really happens behind the whistle - the pressure, the
Ian Ladyman: “It’s a cheat’s charter - three subs is ENOUGH!”
This week on Whistleblowers, Mark Clattenburg, Ian Ladyman, and Gordon Smart make their opinions on top-tier football’s moves to bring in a sixth substitute very clear.Meanwhile, Ian tells us which club made him report on a game from the top of a double-decker bus and Gordon reveals the shocking advice he was given when Vinnie Jones was his manager.Whistleblowers | Football From The Inside OutHost
Is Virgil Van Dijk too ‘thin-skinned’ to wear the armband?
In this week’s episode of Whistleblowers, the boys are joined by Redmen TV’s Errol Smith to discuss all things Anfield following Liverpool’s takedown of Real Madrid and the return of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Merseyside.Ian Ladyman reveals the inside story on just how he ended up riding a horse through Moscow, before he and Mark go head to head on Ifab’s new VAR rulings.AND Gordon Smart takes us b
Harry Redknapp Stories You’ve NEVER Heard - from those who know him best!
It’s one of the funniest Whistleblowers episodes yet as Mark Clattenburg, Gordon Smart and Andy Dillon are in top form. From the Aberdeen sporting director who once stole a penguin to Clattenburg’s chaotic nights in Moscow and Malaga, this one moves effortlessly between absurd football stories and genuine insight. The trio debate the possible end of Boxing Day football, swap never-heard
Mark Clattenburg: The Brilliant Decision Not to Award Cody Gakpo a Penalty for Liverpool
This week on Whistleblowers, Gordon Smart, Mark Clattenburg, and Andy Dillon dissect what’s gone wrong at the London Stadium: from Nuno Espírito Santo’s baffling tactics to toxic ownership and the club’s post-European hangover.Clattenburg gives a masterclass on how referees really judge penalties, breaking down that controversial Liverpool vs Brentford moment - while Andy confesses he’s actually p
Mark Clattenburg: “VAR made referees lazy and killed football’s emotion”
This week, Gordon Smart, Mark Clattenburg and Ian Ladyman go head-to-head over football’s newest idea - manager VAR cards, where coaches can challenge decisions from the touchline.Clattenburg believes it could bring back fairness and take ownership away from referees, while Ian calls it “a f***ing mess” that will only slow the game down. Whistleblowers | Football From The Inside OutHosts: Gor
Inside Salah’s Slump and Slot’s Set Piece Solution
This week on Whistleblowers, Gordon Smart, Ian Ladyman, and Mark Clattenburg are joined by Daily Mail’s Lewis Steele to pick apart Liverpool’s worst run in a decade. What’s happened to Mo Salah? Is Arne Slot already under pressure? And why does Virgil van Dijk suddenly look like a man out of answers?Clattenburg breaks down a landmark refereeing moment as a Premier League ref defies VAR, sparking a
Mark Clattenburg Reveals The Story Behind His Infamous Tattoos
This week on Whistleblowers, Felix White from The Maccabees joins Gordon Smart, Ian Ladyman and Mark Clattenburg for a conversation that moves from cricket and football to music, mental health and legacy.Felix opens up about the heartbreak of The Maccabees’ split, the pull of validation on social media and why modern sport misunderstands entertainment. Clattenburg reveals the real reason he tattoo
Why England’s German Boss Might Actually Be Perfect
This week on Whistleblowers, the lads welcome rock and roll royalty as Felix White of The Maccabees joins Ian Ladyman, Mark Clattenburg and Gordon Smart to talk football, Fulham and the strange journey from indie gigs to Major League Baseball punditry.Felix explains how a sober American tour turned him into a baseball obsessive, while Clattenburg shares what it was like refereeing Brazil in front
Mark Clattenburg: The Match That Haunted Me for Years
This week on Whistleblowers Bonus Ball, Gordon Smart, Ian Ladyman, and Mark Clattenburg tackle one of football’s longest-running debates - should the 3pm blackout finally be scrapped?The lads dive into the tug-of-war between tradition and modernisation: Ian defends the blackout as football’s last line of defence for live match culture, while Mark argues it’s outdated in an age of streaming, g
Is Mental Health Still a Taboo Topic in Football?
Welcome back to Whistleblowers!From Russell Martin’s disastrous spell at Rangers - complete with self-help quotes, swimming sessions, and a police escort - to John Stones’ brutally honest admission that he almost retired, the lads dive deep into the state of modern football and what it really takes to survive it.Mark opens up about the mental toll of refereeing, revealing how online abuse once lef
Amy Winehouse, Gary Speed, Billy Vigar: Reporting on The Most Tragic Stories
This week on Whistleblowers, Gordon Smart, Ian Ladyman, and Mark Clattenburg tackle the Premier League’s never-ending managerial merry-go-round - from Nuno and Potter to West Ham’s revolving door. They debate data vs emotion in modern football, discuss empathy in refereeing, and reflect on the human side of journalism. Ian opens up about interviewing Gary Speed’s widow, while Gordon shares a
“He doesn’t want anyone to be as successful as him” Mark Clattenburg v Howard Webb
In this week’s episode of Whistleblowers, the lads dive into the chaos of Premier League refereeing as Mark Clattenburg unloads on VAR after Newcastle’s defeat to Arsenal. Gordon Smart relives one of the wildest nights of his life in Edinburgh’s Presidential Suite (spoiler: Winston Churchill’s table was never the same again).AND debate Sunderland’s remarkable transformation from Netflix despair to
When The Tartan Army Took on The Police…
Welcome back to Whistleblowers!From whether modern “cookie-cutter” stadiums have killed atmosphere, to why Tottenham’s new ground might be the exception, the lads debate which grounds really deliver and which leave you cold. Mark reveals what it’s like refereeing at Arsenal and Bayern Munich, while Ian tells us what it’s like reporting from Goodison Park behind those infamous pillars.Also, Gordon
WHAT Was Hugo Ekitike Thinking?! Mark Clattenburg Explains Bizarre Incident
This week on Whistleblowers, Gordon Smart, Ian Ladyman and Mark Clattenburg are joined by Man City superfan Steven McInerney. From Pep Guardiola’s lowest-ever possession stat to Rodri’s fading legs, Kusunov’s redemption and Donnarumma’s arrival, Steven breaks down City’s huge transition. Elsewhere, the panel debate Arsenal’s invisible striker, the “shirt off” yellow card rule, and Mark reveals how
Chelsea Players Microwaved Their Boots?! Inside Football’s Strangest Training Stories
This week on Whistleblowers, Gordon Smart and Mark Clattenburg are joined by veteran Sun journalist Andy Dillon, who lifts the lid on 26 years of wild football stories. From Chelsea players microwaving their boots and Graham Potter making his team perform Swan Lake, to Russell Martin’s Loch Lomond dip after a Rangers defeat.Andy also relives his biggest scoops - from Edu’s fake passport scandal to
Are Chelsea Anywhere Near Champions League Level?
This week on Whistleblowers, Gordon Smart is joined by Mark Clattenburg and, in a change to our usual programming, the man who asked Ian Ladyman to be his best man, Andy Dillon, takes the reigns.From newsroom chaos and Gordon’s surreal dinner with Pele to unforgettable nights at Upton Park and the reality of West Ham’s London Stadium.There’s discussion on Chelsea and whether Graham Potter’s time a
John Obi Mikel, Chelsea and The Racist Allegation That Could’ve Ruined My Life
This week on Whistleblowers, Gordon Smart, Ian Ladyman, and Mark Clattenburg kick off by discussing ideas to reform Scottish football and analyse whether relegation playoffs would impact the Premier League.Clattenburg discusses his darkest period as an official when he was accused of racism by Chelsea - a story that shook the game and nearly ended his career. The lads also tackle American owners’
Ange Postecoglou: Can ‘Angeball’ Survive The Marinakis Machine at Nottingham Forest?
Nottingham Forest in chaos. Nuno’s sacking, agent power, and Ange Postecoglou’s bold arrival under Evangelos Maranakis. Then we discuss as Ryan Giggs is once again missing from the Hall of Fame. Should off-field allegations keep one of the Premier League’s finest ever out?Before Scarlett Douglas joins the panel to talk Arsenal’s frustrations, Arteta’s future and how American fans live and breathe
Inside Craig Bellamy’s Most Outrageous Moment
This week Gordon Smart, Ian Ladyman and Mark Clattenburg dig into the state of modern football fandom, asking why supporters are leaving games early and whether TV kick-off times and rising prices are pushing genuine fans away. Alongside the debate, the stories take centre stage. Clattenburg recalls the day a Rob Lee goal left him covered in filth (literally poo) at St James’ Park, and the unforge
Inside the Isak Transfer Fallout: Fan Reactions, Dressing Room Splits & Gordon’s Instagram Story
This week on Whistleblowers, we kick off with Clattenburg’s chaotic Great North Run preparations, recall Gordon’s past as the voice of Greggs, and a sharp chat about AI killing football media jobs.Daily Mail’s Nathan Salt joins to give us the inside line on Manchester United - including a wild tale of the club threatening to “hunt him down” over a leaked debut story. From there, we unpack why thre
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