The Roar Podcast - Sunderland Echo
A weekly podcast dedicated to Sunderland AFC, bringing news, views, insight, and debate. Hosted by Sunderland Echo writers Phil Smith, Richard Mennear, Joe Nicholson, and James Copley. Each episode covers the latest from the club, including match analysis, interviews, and fan discussion. The podcast is produced by the Sunderland Echo, a local newspaper serving Sunderland and the surrounding region.
Episodes
Sunderland in crisis? Bournemouth disaster, Mukiele's brutal verdict and massive Leeds clash
Sunderland's Premier League struggles continue after a disastrous 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth, leaving Régis Le Bris' side 19th in the table with just four points from seven games.On the latest episode of The Roar Podcast, we examine what has gone wrong at Sunderland and what needs to change before a massive Premier League clash with Leeds United.Nordi Mukiele has delivered a brutally honest
Brighton reaction, Chemsdine Talbi snub and Torreense Europa League preview
James Copley and Phil Smith react to Sunderland’s 2-0 Premier League defeat to Brighton at the Stadium of Light, including the frustration of failing to make a numerical advantage count.We also discuss the growing questions around Chemsdine Talbi after the winger was left on the bench despite Sunderland chasing the game, and what Régis Le Bris’ recent comments could mean for his future.Attention t
Sunderland BOMBSHELL: Tom Burwell leaves as Kyril Louis-Dreyfus takes control
Tom Burwell has left his position as Sunderland AFC’s interim CEO with immediate effect, with owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus stepping into the role of Executive Chairman and taking a more hands-on role in the day-to-day running of the club.In this breaking-news edition of The Roar Podcast, James Copley and Phil Smith react to the announcement, discuss what we know so far and assess what the change coul
Sunderland's injury worries: Ballard, Brobbey and Sadiki latest as Le Bris faces major test
Phil Smith and James Copley are back to discuss a worrying international break for Sunderland, with Dan Ballard, Brian Brobbey and Noah Sadiki all picking up injury concerns.We look at how serious the situation could be, what Régis Le Bris’ options are if key players miss time and why Sunderland’s improved squad depth could now be tested earlier than expected.There’s also discussion on Kevin Danso
Phil and James react to Sunderland’s CRAZY week: AZ Alkmaar, Man City and eight-goal chaos
Phil and James look back on a remarkable week for Sunderland, from an emotional European night against AZ Alkmaar to an eight-goal thriller at Manchester City.The lads discuss Brian Brobbey’s hat-trick, Sunderland’s attacking performance at the Etihad, the defensive mistakes that proved costly, Régis Le Bris’ decisions and why there is still plenty of reason for optimism heading into the internati
Sunderland prove a major point at Brentford as Régis Le Bris prepares Hull City changes
James Copley and Connor Bromley return to discuss Sunderland’s encouraging 1-1 draw at Brentford, Enzo Le Fée’s redemption from the penalty spot and another impressive tactical display from Régis Le Bris.The lads assess Kevin Danso’s debut, Dan Ballard’s disallowed goal, Wilson Isidor’s game-changing cameo and the exciting prospect of Isidor playing alongside Brian Brobbey.Attention then turns to
What Sunderland got RIGHT and WRONG in a wild transfer window and deadline day
A special crossover between the Disco Pants Podcast and The Roar, with James Copley and Connor Bromley taking a proper look back at Sunderland’s summer transfer window.We discuss what Sunderland got right and wrong, the chaos of deadline day, the dramatic Malick Fofana saga, Kevin Danso’s arrival, the club’s wider recruitment strategy and whether failing to land a specialist right winger should re
Sunderland lose against Ipswich Town and transfer latest ahead of Fulham
Sunderland suffered their first Premier League defeat of the season at Ipswich Town, but what went wrong for Régis Le Bris’ side and how much should be read into the result?James Copley and Phil Smith look back on the key talking points from Portman Road, discuss the early reaction to Sunderland’s start and assess the latest transfer news ahead of Fulham’s visit to the Stadium of Light.Plenty to g
Sunderland flex transfer muscles ahead of Ipswich Town season-opener
The Roar is back as we look ahead to the Premier League season-opener against Ipswich Town.James Copley and Phil Smith discuss Sunderland flexing some unfamiliar transfer muscles under Florent Ghisolfi, the latest on Dayann Methalie, the club’s firm stance in the market and what still needs to be done before the window closes.Plus, we assess Régis Le Bris’ squad ahead of Ipswich, the key selection
Sunderland transfer latest as Régis Le Bris, men defeat RC Lens in France
Phil Smith and James Copley are back with another episode of The Roar Podcast to reflect on Sunderland’s impressive 2-0 pre-season victory over RC Lens in France.The pair discuss the major talking points from the game, including goals from Trai Hume and Wilson Isidor, another eye-catching Chris Rigg performance, the return of key first-team players and what the display told us about Régis Le Bris’
Sunderland defeat Wrexham as Brian Brobbey, Noah Sadiki, Robin Roefs and others return
Phil Smith and James Copley discuss Sunderland’s pre-season victory over Wrexham as Brian Brobbey, Noah Sadiki, Robin Roefs and several other key players return to action.The pair assess the performance, the major talking points and what the latest fitness boosts mean for Régis Le Bris ahead of the Premier League and Europa League campaigns.
Sunderland lose against Liverpool as James and Phil pre-season winners and losers
James Copley and Phil Smith react to Sunderland’s 4-2 pre-season defeat against Liverpool in Nashville.The lads assess the key talking points from the game, including Enzo Le Fée’s stunning goal, another impressive display from Chris Rigg and Timur Tutierov’s continued impact.They also pick out Sunderland’s early pre-season winners and losers, discuss the young side’s difficult second half and loo
Sunderland transfer gossip and injury news after York City pre-season opener
James Copley and Phil Smith discuss the latest Sunderland transfer gossip and injury news following the Black Cats’ 5-1 pre-season win over York City.The lads assess the latest transfer headlines, Régis Le Bris’ comments on Thomas Meunier and Lutsharel Geertruida, and the latest surrounding Anthony Patterson’s future.There are also updates on Dan Ballard, Romaine Mundle and Leo Hjelde, plus reacti
Sunderland transfer news as Régis Le Bris prepares for pre-season opener against York City
James Copley and Phil Smith return with another episode of The Roar to discuss the latest Sunderland transfer news and the major talking points from the Academy of Light.The pair assess the Black Cats’ summer recruitment work, the players whose futures remain uncertain and the key selection decisions facing Régis Le Bris as Sunderland prepare to open their pre-season schedule against York City. Th
Sunderland transfer latest as Granit Xhaka stays and Eliezer Mayenda leaves
Phil Smith and James Copley are back on The Roar Podcast to discuss the latest Sunderland transfer news after a dramatic few days on Wearside.The lads react to Granit Xhaka staying at Sunderland following Chelsea interest, what it means for the Black Cats moving forward and why keeping their captain is such a major statement.They also discuss Eliezer Mayenda’s departure, the £20million deal, his S
Sunderland transfer latest amid Granit Xhaka and Eliezer Mayenda drama
Phil Smith and James Copley are back on The Roar Podcast to discuss the latest Sunderland transfer news, with Granit Xhaka’s future dominating the agenda amid Chelsea interest.The lads also discuss the latest on Eliezer Mayenda, with Rennes and Porto linked with signing the striker, as well as what Sunderland’s stance should be in a summer where keeping key players could be just as important as ne
Brobbey masterclass, Mayenda transfer dilemma and what Ghisolfi's Sunderland shake-up really means
Join Phil and James on the latest Roar Podcast as they look back on a busy week for Sunderland and their players.This week’s episode includes a World Cup review, Brian Brobbey’s brilliant Netherlands masterclass, the latest on Eliezer Mayenda’s transfer dilemma, and a closer look at Sunderland’s academy revamp.The lads also discuss Florent Ghisolfi’s early moves on Wearside, whether any of the cha
Retained list reaction as Sunderland’s global profile increases at World Cup
Phil Smith and James Copley return for the latest episode of The Roar Podcast to react to Sunderland’s retained list decisions and what they mean for the summer ahead.The lads discuss the major calls, the players moving on, those still in talks and how the squad could take shape as Régis Le Bris prepares for another huge season.There is also chat on Sunderland’s growing global profile, with the Bl
Sunderland are going to Europe!!! End-of-season awards after incredible campaign
On the latest episode of The Roar Podcast, James Copley, Jason Jones and Phil Smith look back on an extraordinary Sunderland campaign after the Black Cats secured Europa League qualification at the end of a remarkable Premier League season.
Sunderland enter final game against Chelsea with European chance to play for
Phil Smith and James Copley look ahead to Sunderland’s final game of the Premier League season, with the Black Cats hosting Chelsea at the Stadium of Light and still in with a chance of qualifying for Europe.
Takeover, ticket and transfer news as Sunderland draw with Manchester United
Sunderland’s takeover talk, ticket developments and transfer news discussed after the Black Cats’ 0-0 draw with Manchester United at the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland's new team selection dilemmas discussed after Nottingham Forest loss
Sunderland’s heavy defeat to Nottingham Forest has raised big questions for Régis Le Bris. We break down the key selection dilemmas, potential changes and who could come in for the final games of the season.
Sunderland analysis: Diarra’s chip, O’Nien vs Villa and ticketing concerns
Sunderland were involved in a dramatic clash at Aston Villa - and there’s plenty to unpack.We dive into Habib Diarra’s late chance and the decision to chip Emiliano Martínez, breaking down what he should have done and why it proved so costly. There’s also a full analysis of Luke O’Nien’s performance against Ollie Watkins and whether the criticism aimed his way is justified.Beyond the pitch, we als
James and Phil react as Europe-chasing Sunderland defeat Tottenham at Stadium of Light
James and Phil react as Sunderland beat Tottenham at the Stadium of Light to keep their European hopes alive. They break down a strong performance under Régis Le Bris, discuss key moments, big calls and what the result means heading into a huge run of games.
David Bruce exits Sunderland - and expectations for the rest of the season
David Bruce exits Sunderland - and expectations for the rest of the season
Reaction as Sunderland extend unbeaten league record against Newcastle to 11 games
James Copley and Jason Jones react to Sunderland’s latest derby triumph as the Black Cats extend their unbeaten league run against Newcastle United to 11 games.They break down a generational win at St James’s Park, Régis Le Bris’ tactical approach, standout performances from Chris Rigg and Brian Brobbey, and what the result means for both clubs moving forward.
Newcastle United vs Sunderland derby day preview with James Copley and Joe Buck
The Tyne-Wear derby is back. James Copley and Joe Buck preview Newcastle United vs Sunderland ahead of Sunday’s huge clash at St James’ Park.
Analysis as Sunderland lose to Port Vale ion FA Cup ahead of Brighton game.
James Copley and Phil Smith react as Sunderland crash out of the FA Cup with defeat to Port Vale at Vale Park.The pair analyse what went wrong for Régis Le Bris’ side, the key moments in the game, and what the result means heading into Saturday's Premier League clash with Brighton.They also discuss selection decisions, standout performances - both positive and negative - and how Sunderland res
Kyril Louis-Dreyfus' new loan, season ticket prices and Fulham loss
Kyril Louis-Dreyfus' new loan, season ticket prices and Fulham loss
Kristjaan Speakman leaves and Sunderland defeat Oxford United in FA Cup
Kristjaan Speakman is gone. What now for Sunderland?James Copley and Jason Jones analyse the sporting director’s exit, whether it represents recalibration or risk, and what Florent Ghisolfi must get right next.Plus, reaction to Sunderland’s FA Cup win over Oxford United and what the cup run could mean for the season.
Can Sunderland bounce back against Liverpool after Arsenal defeat?
Can Sunderland bounce back against Liverpool after Arsenal defeat?
Transfer deadline day reaction as Sunderland thrash Burnley at Stadium of Light
James Copley is joined by Phil Smith and Jason Jones to react to Sunderland’s emphatic win over Burnley on transfer deadline day.The panel break down a dominant night at the Stadium of Light, discuss the key moments from the 3-0 victory, and assess what it means for Sunderland’s season moving forward. There’s also reaction to deadline day business, late transfer twists, and how Régis Le Bris’ side
West Ham drubbing reaction and Sunderland transfer latest
Phil Smith and James Copley react to Sunderland’s heavy defeat against West Ham United and break down what went wrong on the day. The pair also discuss the latest Sunderland transfer news, including potential incomings, contract situations and what could happen next as the window approaches.Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Transfer talk latest and reaction to Sunderland's win against Crystal Palace
Transfer talk latest and reaction to Sunderland's win against Crystal Palace.mp4
Sunderland transfer news and gossip latest ahead of Crystal Palace
Sunderland transfer news and gossip latest as attention turns to Crystal Palace.We discuss the biggest January transfer talking points, potential incomings and exits, and what Kristjaan Speakman could be planning behind the scenes, before looking ahead to Sunderland’s next Premier League test against Crystal Palace.Plus, team news, injury updates, and what Régis Le Bris might change as the Black C
Sunderland Q&A LIVE: Are Sunderland now safe from relegation? Should a striker be signed in Jan?
Sunderland Q&A LIVE is back as the Premier League season continues to gather pace.James Copley, Connor Bromley and Taff answer your questions on all things Sunderland AFC, including whether the Black Cats are now pulling clear of relegation trouble and if a striker should be a January priority.We also discuss recent performances, key talking points from the weekend, squad depth, injuries, AFCO
Sunderland Q&A LIVE: Copley, Taff, Bowers and Bromley talk Newcastle and Brighton
Join James Copley alongside Taff, Bowers and Bromley for a live Sunderland Q&A as we reflect on the Wear-Tyne derby win over Newcastle United and look ahead to the next Premier League test against Brighton.We’ll break down the key talking points from derby day, standout performances, fan reaction and what the result means for Sunderland moving forward, before turning attention to Brighton and
Paying tribute to Sunderland legend Gary Rowell with Rob Mason
In this special video, Rob Mason pays tribute to Sunderland legend Gary Rowell, reflecting on his remarkable career, unforgettable moments in red and white and the lasting impact he had on the club and its supporters.From his goals and derby heroics to his connection with Wearside and his place in Sunderland’s history, this is a celebration of a player whose legacy will never be forgotten.
SUNDERLAND WIN THE DERBY AGAINST NEWCASTLE UNITED!!!
The Black Cats beat Newcastle United in the Wear-Tyne derby, and the Stadium of Light was absolutely bouncing. From the atmosphere and the key moments to the performances that decided it, we break down a famous derby win, what it means for Sunderland’s season and why this result felt so significant on and off the pitch.James Copley and Jason discuss the game, the goals, the standout players, the p
Sunderland vs Newcastle United preview with James Copley, Dom Scurr and Rich Mennear
Derby week is here!The Echo's James Copley and the Shields Gazette's Dom Scurr join host Richard Mennear to look ahead to Sunderland vs Newcastle United.We discuss injuries, tactics, form, key battles and the big questions heading into Sunday.Like, subscribe and join the chat below.
LIVE Q&A: Sunderland vs Newcastle - will Habib Diarra and Reinildo be fit? Wilson Isidor or Brian Brobbey?
Sunderland vs Newcastle United Q&A! Copley, Taff and Bowers on:• Derby nerves and confidence levels• Line up decisions• Injuries and suspensions• Key battles• Fan questions live
LIVE Q&A: Who should Sunderland sign in January? How should Le Bris approach Liverpool tactically?
LIVE Q&A: Who should Sunderland sign in January? How should Le Bris approach Liverpool tactically?
LIVE Q&A: How bad were Sunderland at Fulham? 4-3-3 or 5-4-1 for Bournemouth? What will Régis Le Bris do now?
Join James, Michael and Taff for a LIVE Q&A as we break down Sunderland’s 1–0 defeat to Fulham in the Premier League.
Sunderland transfer special and Fulham preview with Nick Barnes
Join James Copley and BBC Radio Newcastle's Nick Barnes as we break down all the latest Sunderland transfer news, January window possibilities, and what to expect from Régis Le Bris' side ahead of this weekend’s trip to Fulham. We’ll cover potential incomings and outgoings, squad needs, injury updates, and how Sunderland can keep their Premier League momentum going. Got a question for the
LIVE Q&A Part 2: Could Régis Le Bris be poached? Who could Sunderland sell this summer? How badly will AFCON impact us?
LIVE Q&A Part 2: Could Régis Le Bris be poached? Who could Sunderland sell this summer? How badly will AFCON impact us?
LIVE Q&A Part 1: What will happen to Dan Neil? Will Dennis Cirkin play? Is Anthony Patterson set to leave?
LIVE Q&A Part 1: What will happen to Dan Neil? Will Dennis Cirkin play? Is Anthony Patterson set to leave?
Sunderland 2-2 Arsenal reaction: How far can this team go under Régis Le Bris?
James Copley is joined by Jason Jones and Phil Smith to break down a sensational night at the Stadium of Light as Sunderland held Premier League leaders Arsenal to a dramatic 2–2 draw. The lads analyse Brian Brobbey’s late heroics, Dan Ballard’s colossal display, the tactical bravery shown by Régis Le Bris and the growing belief sweeping through Wearside. How far can this young, fearless Sunderlan
VAR controversy during Sunderland 1-1 Everton as Louis-Dreyfus delivers interview
VAR controversy hit Sunderland’s 1–1 draw with Everton at the Stadium of Light, with key decisions leaving fans furious. We break down the major calls, the reaction inside the ground, and what it means going forward.Plus, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus delivers a rare interview – here’s what he said, why he said it, and the message behind it. Full analysis, fan reaction, talking points and more from the Stad
Reaction as Sunderland stun Chelsea at Stamford Bridge
James Copley, Jason Jones and Phil Smith react to Sunderland’s stunning 2–1 win at Stamford Bridge – as Régis Le Bris’ side shock Chelsea to climb into the Premier League’s top four.The lads break down Chemsdine Talbi’s dramatic winner, Le Bris’ tactical masterclass, and what this result says about the Black Cats’ incredible rise.
Wolves win reaction – will Régis Le Bris change system for Chelsea?
Wolves win reaction – will Régis Le Bris change system for Chelsea?
Noah Sadiki injury latest and Sunderland vs Wolves preview with Jonathan Wilson
Sunderland suffer a major blow as Noah Sadiki picks up an injury on international duty – we break down what it means for Régis Le Bris’ midfield and look ahead to Saturday’s Premier League clash against Wolves. Football writer Jonathan Wilson joins James Copley and Phil Smith to preview the key battles, tactical tweaks and selection dilemmas facing the Black Cats.Jonathan Wilson has been longliste
Reflecting on Sunderland's solid start to Premier League life
The Roar Podcast returns this week as James Copley, Phil Smith and Jason Jones sit down to reflect on Sunderland’s impressive start to life back in the Premier League. From Régis Le Bris’ tactical nous to the impact of new signings like Granit Xhaka and Robin Roefs, the lads break down what’s gone right so far – and where the Black Cats still need to improve.They also discuss standout performers,
Kristjaan Speakman post-window chat detailed and Crystal Palace preview
Kristjaan Speakman post-window chat detailed and Crystal Palace preview
Deadline day reaction with Nick Barnes as Sunderland spend £167.1m during transfer window
Deadline day reaction with Nick Barnes as Sunderland spend £167.1m during transfer window
Carabao Cup exit reaction and Sunderland vs Brentford preview
Carabao Cup exit reaction and Sunderland vs Brentford preview
Sunderland's loss to Burnley and Huddersfield Town preview with Ian Murtagh
Sunderland's loss to Burnley and Huddersfield Town preview with Ian Murtagh
Burnley insider Matt Scrafton previews Sunderland clash in Premier League
Burnley insider Matt Scrafton previews Sunderland clash in Premier League
Sunderland thrash West Ham as Régis Le Bris' tactical blueprint becomes clear
Connor Bromley joins James Copley to discuss Sunderland's thumping 3-0 win over West Ham in the Premier League.
West Ham insider James Jones helps preview Sunderland clash in Premier League
West Ham insider James Jones helps preview Sunderland clash in Premier League
Sunderland transfer and injury latest as Régis Le Bris signs new deal
Sunderland transfer and injury latest as Régis Le Bris signs new deal
Keep, sell or loan? Assessing the future of EVERY first-team Sunderland player
Keep, sell or loan? Assessing the future of EVERY first-team Sunderland player
Sunderland Echo SAFC team discuss Jobe exit and transfer latest
On the latest episode of the Roar podcast, Phil Smith and Jason Jones discuss all the latest transfer news surrounding Sunderland as Jobe Bellingham departs for Borussia Dortmund.
Sunderland's transfer business under the microscope with Jobe and Trai Hume latest
Phil Smith and Jason Jones take a look at all the latest transfer news surrounding Sunderland - including the latest on Jobe Bellingham' proposed move to Borussia Dortmund.
SUNDERLAND ARE GOING TO THE PREMIER LEAGUE!!
SUNDERLAND ARE GOING TO THE PREMIER LEAGUE!!
The inside track on Sheffield United with The Star's Danny Hall
The inside track on Sheffield United with The Star's Danny Hall
Sunderland vs Sheffield United preview as Wembley final approaches
Sunderland vs Sheffield United preview as Wembley final approaches
Reaction as Dan Ballard sends Sunderland to Wembley amid incredible scenes
Reaction as Dan Ballard sends Sunderland to Wembley amid incredible scenes
Coventry City play-off preview plus Romaine Mundle injury latest
Jason Jones and Phil Smith preview the first-leg of Sunderland's play-off clash with Coventry City and bring you the latest injury news ahead of that tie - with Regis Le Bris revealing that Romaine Mundle won't be fit enough to feature at the CBS Arena.
Sunderland promotion chat with Jeff Brown ahead of play-offs
Sunderland promotion chat with Jeff Brown ahead of play-offs
Reaction as Sunderland lose to Swansea and home atmosphere debate
The latest episode of the Sunderland Echo's The Roar podcast, reflecting on the Black Cats' defeat to Swansea City.
Romaine Mundle injury latest and Tommy Watson debate
Romaine Mundle injury latest and Tommy Watson debate
O'Nien and Mundle penalty drama as Sunderland return to winning ways vs Millwall
O'Nien and Mundle penalty drama as Sunderland return to winning ways vs Millwall
Sunderland vs Millwall preview with Cirkin and Hume potentially out
Sunderland vs Millwall preview with Cirkin and Hume potentially out
Sunderland injury news latest after Coventry City drubbing
Sunderland injury news latest after Coventry City drubbing
Sunderland draw against Preston North end with special guest Daniel Storey
Sunderland draw against Preston North end with special guest Daniel Storey
Preston insider George Hodgson joins James Copley to preview Sunderland clash
Preston insider George Hodgson joins James Copley to preview Sunderland clash
Cardiff City insider Dafydd Pritchard joins James Copley to discuss Sunderland clash
Cardiff City insider Dafydd Pritchard joins James Copley to discuss Sunderland clash
Eliezer Mayenda's brilliance settles Sheffield Wednesday clash at Hillsborough
Eliezer Mayenda's brilliance settles Sheffield Wednesday clash at Hillsborough
Sheffield Wednesday insider Alex Miller joins James Copley to discuss Sunderland clash
Sheffield Wednesday insider Alex Miller joins James Copley to discuss Sunderland clash
Sunderland lose to Hull City with Dan Ballard and Enzo Le Fee injured
Sunderland lose to Hull City with Dan Ballard and Enzo Le Fee injured
