Walk On: The Athletic FC's Liverpool show
The Athletic 503 episodes Nov 9, 2026
The Athletic's James Pearce, Simon Hughes and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to bring you the very best insight into Liverpool Football Club twice a week, every week. Follow for expert knowledge of the club from breaking news to entertaining and informed discussion around the club.
Episodes
Alisson saves the day as Liverpool get back to winning ways
Andy Jones and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to reflect on a much-needed three points and Alisson’s brilliant performance at Crystal Palace.Plus, we explore why Liverpool are so keen on Ronald Araujo and whether they should make his loan move permanent, discuss the latest developments in the club’s ownership, and put a new Jacquet song suggestion from a listener to the test.There’s also a chance to
Collapse in Istanbul: How did Liverpool throw that game away?
Andy Jones and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to pick through the collapse against Fenerbahce, including Jeremy Jacquet’s role in the opening goal, Alisson’s uncertain moments and whether playing Bradley Barcola through the middle was a mistake. There was one bright spot, though: Trey Nyoni’s first senior goal. Has the teenager done enough to earn more opportunities? We also discuss Alexis Mac Allis
Liverpool lose to Arsenal, but is there reason for optimism?
James Pearce and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to reflect on Sunday’s 1-0 defeat. We discuss Liverpool’s attacking pressure, the lack of shots on target and the controversial penalty incident involving Alexander Isak.We also look at whether there is genuine reason for optimism despite the defeat, and ask whether Liverpool are genuinely closing the gap on the best sides in the Premier League.There’s
Liverpool on a roll ahead of Arsenal clash
Andy Jones and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to discuss an action-packed night at Anfield, where Giorgi Mamardashvili and Joe Gomez became penalty-shootout heroes. After 15 spot kicks, it was Wesley Fofana who finally cracked, sending Liverpool through to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals. But just how much can the Reds take from the win?We hear from listener Sam in New Zealand, who has written some n
Rock ’n’ Araujo! Have Liverpool found a new cult hero?
Andy Jones and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to discuss Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Brighton, including Alexander Isak’s clinical finishing and Bradley Barcola’s brilliant performance.Tony also responds to a passionate listener email defending Florian Wirtz. Is the German receiving too much criticism, and are we finally seeing signs of what he can bring to Liverpool? Also, has Ronald Araujo done e
Rio Ngumoha stars in thrilling European night
Andy Jones and Gregg Evans join Tony Evans to discuss Rio’s record-breaking performance and where he fits into Liverpool’s long-term plans. Is this the beginning of something special for the 18-year-old?We also debate Florian Wirtz’s encouraging performance, respond to a listener who thinks the German has been receiving too much criticism, and examine Liverpool’s worrying defensive display.Finally
When will Liverpool sort out Rio Ngumoha's future?
Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss whether Liverpool are doing enough to secure Rio Ngumoha’s future. After his impact off the bench at Brentford and his breakthrough with England, why hasn’t he had more opportunities under Andoni Iraola? We also look back on the 2-1 win at Brentford. Was Liverpool’s victory a case of winning ugly, and is Alexander Isak’s goalscoring form enoug
Barcola and Wirtz click - now for the Premier League?
Andy Jones and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to discuss a chaotic 6-3 win over LASK and what it means for Liverpool’s season.Has Barcola finally arrived after a slow start to life at Anfield? Could his growing partnership with Wirtz be the key to unlocking Liverpool’s attack?We also look at the encouraging performances from Liverpool’s young players, including Lewis Koumas, Rio Ngumoha and Trey Nyo
Liverpool crumble... but does it mean anything?
Tony Evans is joined by James Pearce and Simon Hughes to discuss a game that failed to live up to the hype and Liverpool’s collapse after the red card.There’s also a bigger question hanging over the fixture: does any of this really mean anything until we know what punishment Manchester City will face? With City sitting at the top of the Premier League and the verdict still looming over the club, w
Liverpool v Man City: the biggest clash to date?
The Premier League is back! Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to preview the huge Anfield showdown between Liverpool and Manchester City.City are currently top of the Premier League, with Liverpool sitting sixth, but it’s what’s happening off the pitch that makes this fixture particularly intriguing. How will Anfield react to the verdict against City, and will it add another edge to an
Wirtz shines for Klopp - can he now for Liverpool?
Simon Hughes and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to continue the debate around City’s potential punishment and start the build up to the most anticipated match of the season.Attention then turns to how the Reds’ have been getting on during the international break, particularly Florian Wirtz under Jurgen Klopp.The guys finish on Giovanni Leoni’s return from injury and how the future looks bright for Liv
Does City’s verdict make Klopp’s Liverpool even greater?
James Pearce and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to discuss whether Manchester City’s guilty verdict changes how we view Liverpool’s title battles over the years between the two clubs. Does it make Liverpool’s achievements under Klopp even more impressive — and should clubs potentially be entitled to compensation?Attentions soon turn to Liverpool’s new sporting director Julian Ward and what he needs to
How has Iraola done so far?
James Pearce and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to assess Liverpool’s start to the season, praise the improvements at the back and ask whether the attack is still searching for its rhythm.Liverpool head into the international break with a win at Bournemouth and three successive Premier League clean sheets — but just how good has Iraola’s start been? The guys give the head coach an early grade and look
Who should start in midfield at Bournemouth?
James Pearce & Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to look ahead to Liverpool’s trip to Bournemouth and ask what we learnt from the youngsters’ impressive display against Tottenham in the Carabao Cup.Dominik Szoboszlai produced a stunning strike against Spurs, but should he be playing as a No.10 instead of Florian Wirtz? Alexis Mac Allister has been excellent in recent games, while Trey Nyoni impress
Can Wirtz, Gravenberch & Szoboszlai play in the same midfield?
James Pearce & Andy Jones join Tony Evans to dissect Saturday’s frustrating 0-0 draw with Fulham and the growing concerns over Liverpool’s midfield balance.Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Florian Wirtz struggled to control the game at Anfield, with Liverpool looking much better after Alexis Mac Allister was introduced. Can those three players work in the same midfield, and has Liverpo
Mac Allister delivers after contract demand
James Pearce & Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to reflect on Liverpool’s dramatic Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid — a fifth consecutive win against Spanish opposition in Europe.Alexis Mac Allister stole the headlines with a stunning winner, just days after revealing he was left “very sad” by Liverpool’s decision not to offer him a new contract. Was this the perfect response, and sho
What is Richard Hughes' Liverpool legacy?
James Pearce & Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to assess Richard Hughes’ time at Liverpool, from appointing Arne Slot and overseeing a Premier League title win to spending more than £670m on reshaping the squad. Was Hughes a success or a failure, and what does Liverpool’s next sporting director need to fix?We also look at Alexander Isak’s flying start to this season after his two goals against Ip
Inside Liverpool’s summer transfer window
James Pearce joins Tony Evans to assess Liverpool’s business after deadline day and ask whether the Reds have done enough to challenge this season.Bradley Barcola arrived for a huge fee but Liverpool chose not to sign a specialist No.6 or another full-back. Was that the right call? Can Andoni Iraola fix Liverpool’s defensive problems through coaching and structure, and was rejecting Manchester Cit
What have we learned from Iraola's first two games?
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to look back on the 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest and ask what we’ve learned from Andoni Iraola’s first two games in charge. Is his style beginning to take shape, and why are Liverpool starting matches so slowly?The panel discuss an encouraging first Anfield start for Victor Muñoz, Alexander Isak’s first goal of the season, as well as the controversi
How does Barcola fix Liverpool's attack?
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss Liverpool’s huge move for Barcola and whether the France international could be the attacking signing that transforms their season.How big a boost is Barcola? Does his arrival change Liverpool’s plans for Yankuba Minteh and Ismaïla Sarr? And with Cody Gakpo attracting interest, has his status suddenly changed from one of Liverpool’s most exp
How do Liverpool get their midfield balance right?
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to dissect an eventful night at St James’ Park and assess Liverpool’s opening weekend.With a £60m bid for Yankuba Minteh rejected by Brighton, the big question is whether Liverpool need more reinforcements — and if so, where? Is midfield now the biggest concern, particularly defensively?The panel also discuss Alexander Isak’s return to Newcastle, how h
Liverpool's Newcastle test + is Jones sale wise?
Simon Hughes & James Pearce join Tony Evans for the latest episode of Walk On as Liverpool prepare to kick off the new Premier League season away at Newcastle.The panel discusses the latest twist in Liverpool’s ownership story, with the consortium including Jeff Bezos now revealed to hold around 38% of the club — significantly more than initially reported.There’s also plenty to discuss on the
Bezos, transfers & 2026/27 predictions
Andy Jones, Simon Hughes & James Pearce join Tony Evans for the first video episode of Walk On!With Liverpool’s season opener against Newcastle just days away, the panel assesses how prepared Andoni Iraola’s side are after the final pre-season friendlies against Como.The panel also discuss Jeff Bezos’ minority investment in Liverpool, and the revelation that his consortium has an option to pot
How prepared are Andoni Iraola’s Liverpool?
Andy Jones and debutant Jon Mackenzie join Tony Evans to take a closer look at how prepared Liverpool are for life under Andoni Iraola.How different will Liverpool look under their new head coach, and how much patience will Iraola get?Finally attention turns to what Liverpool’s starting XI might look like at Newcastle.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comYou can su
Are billionaires welcome at Anfield?
Andy Jones and Gregg Evans join Tony Evans to discuss the prospect of a consortium including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin investing in - and potentially buying - Liverpool.Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo is in on loan, but there are lots of other areas that need strengthening.And after throwing away two 2-0 leads in back to back friendlies, how important are r
Where are all the signings?
James Pearce and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to reflect on Liverpool’s pre-season tour of the USA — and to ask the big question: where are all the signings?With the new season fast approaching, the panel assess a quiet transfer window so far, including the latest on potential incomings, uncertainty around key players and whether pressure is building on the club to act. The lads also wrap up th
How big should Liverpool go for Barcola?
James Pearce and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to dive into Liverpool’s growing interest in Bradley Barcola, with PSG’s £145m valuation setting up a major decision for the club. Is he the right long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah, or would Liverpool be better spreading their resources across multiple attacking options?James also brings the latest from Liverpool’s pre-season tour in the United S
Iraola outlines transfer priority as tour starts & Kevin Keegan remembered
James Pearce and Andy Jones join Tony Evans as Liverpool kick off their US pre-season tour, with James reporting from on the ground after a less-than-smooth journey across the Atlantic.The panel dissect Iraola’s first press conference of the tour, where key talking points included transfer priorities, the future of big names like Mac Allister and positive contract news around Dominik Szoboszlai.Of
"We need more players" Iraola spells out Liverpool transfer reality
James Pearce, Simon Hughes and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to react to Iraola’s first press conference. As the new head coach openly admitted that Liverpool need more signings, there’s a debate over whether the club are already playing catch-up in the transfer window and what kind of backing he will receive.There’s also discussion around Michael Edwards’ confirmed exit and what it means for Liverpo
Is there a lack of leadership at Liverpool?
Sporting Director Richard Hughes is expected to leave Liverpool and join Saudi club Al Hilal.Tony Evans is joined by Simon Hughes and James Pearce to discuss whether this leaves a void in leadership at the top of the club. What will it mean for Michael Edwards, and will it have any impact on this summer’s transfer window?The team also discuss the new coaching set up under Andoni Iraola. Who has th
What now after Diomande prefers PSG?
The big transfer story we all thought would consume our summer has come to an abrupt and unpleasant end for Liverpool.Tony Evans is joined by James Pearce and Simon Hughes as Yan Diomande decides that he’d rather play for PSG over the Reds. What does this mean for the club’s pulling power?Andy Jones also joins the team to chat about who Liverpool should now be looking to bring in instead.And with
Inter bid for Jones & Diomande makes more waves
It’s the hottest day of the year so far in the UK and transfer talk is hotting up with the Walk On team.Tony Evans sits down with James Pearce and Andy Jones to discuss whether Curtis Jones still has a future at Liverpool after the Reds reject an approach from Inter Milan. Might the Italians come back for more though?There’s an expert’s look on Yan Diomande as Seb Stafford-Bloor tells the team wha
Munoz in, Isak impresses & Diomande mania!
The first big arrival news of the summer has dropped! Liverpool are set to sign Spanish winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna.Tony Evans is joined by James Pearce and Andy Jones to discuss what we know about the 22-year-old. How might he fit into Andoni Iraola’s new system? And what does his signature mean for the pursuit of Yan Diomande? Alexander Isak looks good again: a goal and two assists on
Iraola impressions & silly season begins!
James Pearce and Andy Jones join Tony Evans as Liverpool begin life under new head coach Andoni Iraola.With the World Cup kicking off, the panel assess early impressions of Iraola following his first interview.There’s new insight into how Liverpool moved quickly to secure Iraola, what attracted him to the role, and the importance of his relationship with sporting director Richard Hughes.Finally at
Inside Slot’s sacking & why Iraola — right fit or risky gamble?
We want to hear from you. After another dramatic season, we’re running a short survey to get your feedback on how we’ve podcasted for you over the last nine months. All feedback is welcome!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Nd0mZ5gwgEgLo9Mv3FWuTZdbNWO594xsd7768ccgfDA/edit?ts=6a101cbcSimon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to debate the arrival of Iraola. Will his approach be the right fit for
Emergency pod: Slot sacked - Iraola in?
James Pearce and Simon Hughes are alongside Tony Evans for an emergency episode after Liverpool announced the sacking of head coach Arne Slot.The panel give their reaction to the announcement, discuss where things went wrong for the Dutchman at Anfield - before getting onto who could be his replacement, with outgoing Bournemouth head coach Andoni Iraola the clear frontrunner. But is he really the
Inside Liverpool's woeful season & who stays or goes this summer
We want to hear from you. After another dramatic season, we’re running a short survey to get your feedback on how we’ve podcasted for you over the last nine months. All feedback is welcome!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Nd0mZ5gwgEgLo9Mv3FWuTZdbNWO594xsd7768ccgfDA/edit?ts=6a101cbcAndy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect on a difficult Liverpool season and ask the blunt question: whe
Stick or twist: does Champions League save Slot?
We want to hear from you. After another dramatic season, we’re running a short survey to get your feedback on how we’ve podcasted for you over the last nine months. All feedback is welcome!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Nd0mZ5gwgEgLo9Mv3FWuTZdbNWO594xsd7768ccgfDA/edit?ts=6a101cbcAndy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect on an emotional final day at Anfield, as Mohamed Salah and Andy
Farewell Mo and Robbo
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans ahead of Liverpool’s season finale, with Champions League football almost secured — but little sense of celebration around Anfield.Focus quickly turns to what will be the final Liverpool appearances for Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson. What kind of send-off can the two modern club greats expect?The Athletic’s Mark Carey also drops in to explain how Sa
Salah v Slot? Inside Liverpool's collapse
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans after another damaging defeat for Liverpool FC — their 19th of a miserable campaign.The focus turns to Mohamed Salah after his latest social media post. Is this a parting shot at Arne Slot and what should we make of teammates publicly backing it?Beyond Salah, the panel dig into where the blame lies for Liverpool’s collapse this season. Has Slot become
What Alonso to Chelsea would mean for Slot & Reds' summer shopping list
James Pearce and Andy Jones are alongside Tony Evans to discuss the latest events around Liverpool including Chelsea exploring the possibility of hiring Xabi Alonso as their next head coach.With pressure mounting on Liverpool's Arne Slot, the panel reflect on how Chelsea's move for Alonso could impact the security of the Dutchman's position at Anfield.Gregg Evans also joins to discuss the upcoming
Breaking point for Slot? Anfield turns on Liverpool
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect on a damaging draw with Chelsea — and a toxic atmosphere at Anfield.With fans audibly turning on the team, the panel ask whether this is breaking point for Arne Slot.The conversation also turns to the summer ahead. What does Slot mean when he says he knows exactly what the squad is missing?Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walk
Salah’s leadership warning — and ticket price breakthrough
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to unpack a big week at Liverpool FC — on and off the pitch.With Mohamed Salah raising concerns about dressing-room standards and leadership after his departure, the panel debate whether Liverpool are facing a cultural reset — and who, if anyone, is ready to step up.There’s also reaction to breaking news around ticket prices before the focus turns to a
18 defeats and a lack of identity — where are Liverpool heading?
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to dissect a damaging defeat for Liverpool FC at Manchester United.After a dismal first-half display at Old Trafford, the panel assess how concerning the performance was, whether Arne Slot got it wrong tactically, and what a mounting tally of 18 defeats says about the direction of this team.There is also an update on injuries to key players and a look
Liverpool v Man United rivalry explained & shopping for Salah's replacement
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to preview one of football’s biggest occasions as Liverpool FC head to Manchester United with third place on the line.The panel dive into the history and intensity of the rivalry between England’s two most successful clubs — from its roots in industrial Britain to decades of dominance, with both sides now locked on 20 league titles.There’s also the lat
End of an era? Salah injury & Liverpool’s future attack
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to assess the latest on Salah’s injury. Could that be the last time we see him in a Liverpool shirt?There are signs of a new era emerging. Alexander Isak opened his Anfield account, while Florian Wirtz also got on the scoresheet — but are Liverpool starting to figure out how to get the best out of their big-money signings?The panel also reflect on Live
Is the future bright for Slot's Liverpool?
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to assess the bigger picture at Anfield. With Arne Slot insisting the future looks promising, the panel ask whether that optimism is justified — or if major questions still need answering.A big focus is on the goalkeeping situation. With injuries to Alisson Becker and Giorgi Mamardashvili, and Freddie Woodman stepping in, what does Liverpool’s long-ter
Konate contract, derby day delight & significance for Slot
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to react to a dramatic derby day victory over Everton, sealed by a towering late header from Virgil van Dijk. Was it Liverpool’s most significant win of the season — and does the performance even matter if the result is this big?There’s also fresh insight into Ibrahima Konaté’s contract situation, with positive signs emerging — and what that could mean
How does Ekitike's injury change Liverpool's summer plans?
Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to assess the fallout from defeat to Paris Saint-Germain — and the devastating news that Ekitike is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines. What does his absence mean for the remainder of the season and the summer transfer window?With Ekitike out, the spotlight turns firmly to Alexander Isak. The panel discuss whether he’s ready to lead the line after
Rio rising; can Ngumoha spark Liverpool's season?
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect on a much-needed win over Fulham, headlined by 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha, who became Liverpool’s youngest-ever league scorer at Anfield.The panel discuss whether this is the emergence of a genuine wildcard option ahead of the decisive Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain — or simply a rare bright spot in an inconsistent campaign.Off
Are Liverpool losing their identity?
Simon Hughes and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to reflect on the 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain with zero shots on target, just 26% possession, and Arne Slot admitting his side were in “survival mode”.The panel assess Slot’s tactical calls, including the decision to deploy a five-man defence and leave Mohamed Salah, unused, on the bench. There’s also a closer look at Hugo Ekitike’s difficult retur
PSG showdown - is this make or break for Slot?
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect on Liverpool’s heavy FA Cup defeat to Manchester City and Slot’s comments on a lack of “fighting spirit.”The panel assess whether Slot was right to question his players so publicly, the recurring defensive issues that continue to cost Liverpool, and whether senior figures like Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah are doing enough in key moments
A season on the line — should Liverpool prioritise the FA Cup?
Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to preview the FA Cup clash with Manchester City on Saturday and debate where Arne Slot should be focusing his attention. The panel weigh up the importance of the FA Cup against the demands of the Premier League and Champions League, with a packed schedule forcing tough decisions. Should Slot go full strength, or rotate with PSG looming?There’s also a de
No Salah, no problem? Liverpool’s next chapter
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down the reasons behind Salah’s departure. The panel discuss the role Slot played in Salah’s exit, the tensions that emerged during the season, and whether this feels like a natural conclusion or a slightly sour ending to a remarkable chapter.There’s also talk around Liverpool’s future and whether abandoning the plan of Arne Slot at the helm w
End of an era as Salah announces his exit
James Pearce, Simon Hughes and Andy Jones are alongside Tony Evans to react to the news Mohamed Salah will leave Liverpool at the end of the season.The Egyptian King, who has scored 255 goals in 435 games for the Reds will bring to a close his career at Anfield after nine seasons after he announced the decision on Instagram.The panel give their reaction to the announcement, take a trip down memory
Are Liverpool running on empty?
Simon Hughes and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to dissect another damaging result in the race for the top five. From European euphoria to Premier League frustration, Liverpool were brought crashing back down to earth with defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion.The panel explore the now-familiar pattern of Liverpool failing to back up big Champions League performances, with Arne Slot admitting his side
Slot's new formula, Salah the striker & Saudi interest in Hughes
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down a night that could define Liverpool’s season. After a flat and frustrating run, Anfield came alive as Arne Slot’s side produced a statement performance to book their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.The panel analyse the tactical switch to a 4-4-2 system, Mohamed Salah’s impact in a more central role, and whether this performa
Has Anfield lost faith in Slot?
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to ask the big question: with boos ringing out following Liverpool’s draw with Tottenham Hotspur, where does this leave Arne Slot?The panel dissect the disappointing performance, the late goal conceded, and the growing frustration among supporters as Liverpool let another opportunity slip. With questions mounting around team selection, squad planning a
100 games under Arne Slot - Hero or zero?
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to unpack the 1–0 defeat away to Galatasaray in the Champions League. It was a frustrating night that once again highlighted familiar problems — defensive lapses and missed chances. The guys ask whether the tie is still there for Liverpool to turn around at Anfield next week.The panel also reflect on Arne Slot’s first 100 games in charge and explore wh
More Rio please — Wolves win and Istanbul awaits
Gregg Evans and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down the FA Cup win at Molineux, including Ngumoha’s eye-catching display and whether this is the moment he becomes a genuine first-team option under Arne Slot.The panel also discuss Andy Robertson’s match-winning contribution — a goal and an assist in two electric minutes — and what the left-back had to say about his future at Liverpool FC ami
Same old story as momentum halted at Molineux
James Pearce and Andy Jones are with Tony Evans to react to a FIFTH game Liverpool have lost in stoppage time this season after going down 2-1 to Wolves.The panel get stuck into the nature of the performance against the side sitting bottom of the Premier League, discuss Arne Slot's post-match comments and question where it leaves the Reds in their quest for Champions League qualification.There's a
Have set-pieces taken the joy out of the Premier League?
Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to unpack a goal-fest at Anfield, where set-pieces once again proved decisive — prompting a wider debate sparked by Arne Slot’s claim that dead-ball dominance may be taking some of the joy out of football.The panel dig into standout performances from Alexis Mac Allister, Virgil van Dijk and Hugo Ekitike, ask why Liverpool look so dangerous from corners a
How do Liverpool fix their injury issues?
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans as they look ahead to West Ham at Anfield and assess where Liverpool really are after a free week on the training ground.The panel discuss the upcoming Champions League last-16 draw, and dig into Liverpool’s injury list — who could we see back on Saturday?There’s also a deep dive into Liverpool’s improving set-piece record and the guys share their thou
Late joy by the Trent but questions remain
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to unpack a chaotic final act in Nottingham, from VAR confusion and Alexis Mac Allister’s stoppage-time strike to a worrying first-half display that raised familiar concerns. Did the late winner at the City Ground just paper over the cracks?The panel discuss Florian Wirtz’s late withdrawal, and the impact of Rio Ngumoha off the bench. There’s also no a
Flying full-backs and cutting Forest down to size
Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to react to Arne Slot’s latest press conference, assess the ongoing right-back crisis, and dig deeper into the form of Curtis Jones and Milos Kerkez.Next up Liverpool head to Nottingham Forest with confidence growing — but questions still swirling.The panel also discuss Liverpool’s excitement — and concern — over teenage talent Josh Abe and debate shock
FA Cup joy — plus we need to talk about Mo
Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down the 3–0 win at Anfield, asking what the strong line-up tells us about Slot’s priorities and whether the FA Cup now carries extra importance this season.Then comes the big conversation. Mohamed Salah’s overall numbers are still strong, but his game looks different. The panel dig into his post-AFCON form, his creative output, his relationship
Reds win on the road but right-back curse deepens
Andy Jones and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to discuss Liverpool grinding out a crucial 1–0 win at Sunderland, breaking the Black Cats unbeaten home record this season.The guys analyse Virgil van Dijk’s match-winning goal, a more resilient defensive display, and the growing injury crisis at right-back after Wataru Endo’s setback.There’s a discussion on Ibrahima Konaté’s form and future. Surely the
Six wins in 20: how deep is Liverpool’s slump?
James Pearce and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to dissect the chaotic defeat to Manchester City — from Szoboszlai’s stunning opener to VAR controversy, a red card, and two late City goals.The panel debate whether Liverpool were hard done by or simply running out of steam, before attention turns to a worrying league table. Is Champions League qualification starting to look unlikely?There’s also disc
Youth vs urgency: Liverpool’s transfer gamble
James Pearce and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to assess what a quiet deadline means for Arne Slot’s squad, including what to expect from summer arrival Jeremy Jacquet and whether Liverpool are taking a risk on depth. Does Liverpool’s January transfer window close with more questions than answers?The panel dig into Richard Hughes’ recent comments on patient long-term recruitment, debate concerns ar
Comebacks, contracts & Richard Hughes goes Jacquet shopping
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to react to Liverpool’s 4–1 victory over Newcastle, a game transformed by Hugo Ekitike’s two goals in two minutes and an emotional night for Ibrahima Konaté, who capped his return with a goal.There’s also some deadline day activity to discuss, with Richard Hughes making late moves in the January window, plus the guys discuss Dominik Szoboszlai’s eyebro
Slot’s unpopular opinion & why Liverpool are sticking by him
Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down Wednesday night’s European rout, standout performances and another injury which further leaves Liverpool frighteningly thin at the backThere’s also reaction to Slot’s eyebrow-raising comments about last season’s title and squad depth, and discussion about why the Liverpool hierarchy are sticking by their man.Finally, attention turns to a
Who’s to blame as self-sabotage champions strike again?
Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect as Liverpol’s unbeaten run ends at 13 - and in the process sees them drop out of the top four after defeat at Bournemouth.The panel dissect the defensive frailties, late-game collapses and ask who is really to blame for a squad that looks short on options despite spending £450m last summer.There’s also the latest on Andy Robertson’s future, in
Victory in the Velodrome; are Liverpool back on track?
Gregg Evans and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect on a convincing Champions League win in Marseille.The panel assess Mohamed Salah’s role, a standout night for Dominik Szoboszlai, and whether the Hungarian midfielder is now not just Liverpool’s most important player — but a future captain.There’s also discussion on Liverpool’s record-breaking finances, as The Athletic’s Chris Weatherspoon jo
Booed at Anfield: Where does Slot go from here?
Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss that hugely frustrating draw at Anfield against Burnley. Liverpool remain unbeaten — but it doesn’t feel like it!The panel ask the uncomfortable questions about Arne Slot and this most underwhelming of unbeaten runs. Were the boos at full-time justified? With only five wins in the last 17 league games, is this a run of bad luck, bad management
Can Liverpool afford to stand still in January transfer market?
Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss the return of the Premier League and their concerns over squad depth and selection headaches. Are Liverpool one injury away from crisis?The panel examine Liverpool’s wafer-thin defensive cover, debate whether a January move for reinforcements is now unavoidable, and consider the consequences of standing still in the transfer market.There’s als
Cup progress made & how does Alonso sacking impact Slot?
James Pearce and Adny Jones join Tony Evans to discuss a 4-1 cup win against Barnsley, and whether the availability of Xabi Alonso - relieved of duties this week by Real Madrid - adds any pressure to Arne Slot.The gang start with the win that stretches the unbeaten run to 11. But it wasn’t all plain sailing - what was Dominik Szoboszlai thinking with that backheel in the box?Then the focus shifts
Does performance at Emirates ease the scrutiny on Slot?
James Pearce and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to discuss a decent night for Liverpool away to the league leaders, albeit one that ends in yet another draw.The panel discuss some improved performance in defence and midfield, but once again question the slightly stagnant attack. And they ask whether this has eased pressure on the manager ahead of a busy month.There’s also time for an FA Cup preview, w
From euphoria to agony: Liverpool’s 97th-minute gut punch
Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss the fallout from a bruising draw at Fulham, asking whether this was one of the most deflating moments of the season and how much responsibility Liverpool must take for another late collapse. The panel debate game management after Cody Gakpo’s stoppage-time goal, analyse a blunt first-half display with no shots on target, and assess what E
Unbeaten but uninspiring; Reds make flat start to 2026
Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss Liverpool’s frustrating start to 2026, a goalless draw against Leeds at Anfield.The panel debate whether this felt like two points dropped, assess a quiet showing from Florian Wirtz after his recent breakthrough, and ask whether Hugo Ekitiké was too honest. Should he have gone down to win a penalty?There’s also discussion around Liverpool’s de
Wunderbar Wirtz stars in Wolves win
Andy Jones and Gregg Evans join Tony Evans to discuss Liverpool putting three more points in the Christmas stocking with that nervy 2–1 win over Wolves.They reflect on a poignant day at Anfield as both sets of supporters paid tribute to Diogo Jota, before turning attention to Florian Wirtz’s long-awaited first Premier League goal — a moment of quality that finally ended his 23-game wait and hinted
