Manchester City win FA Cup and Hearts heartbreak at Celtic – Football Weekly

Summary

Football Weekly: Manchester City Win FA Cup and Hearts’ Heartbreak at Celtic – May 18, 2026

Overview

In this packed end-of-season episode, host Max Rushden is joined by Dan Bardell, John Bruin, Barry Glendenning and special guest Ewan Murray to break down the final action in English and Scottish football. Manchester City clinch the FA Cup and a domestic double in a lacklustre Wembley final; Chelsea suffer yet another cup heartbreak; the debate about VAR and handball regulation rages on; thrilling and calamitous relegation battles unfold; and in Scotland, Hearts miss out on a famous moment, crushed at the death by Celtic before a chaotic pitch invasion overshadows the final whistle. Other topics include Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea appointment, the Premier League’s European race, Michael Carrick’s new deal, and Scotland’s prospects at the men’s World Cup.

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FA Cup Final: Manchester City 1–0 Chelsea

Key Points:

• City win domestic Cup double, beating Chelsea with an Antoine Semenyo backheel (72') in a generally poor spectacle at Wembley.
• Fewest shots in a cup final since Opta started collecting stats.
• Chelsea left aggrieved by unawarded penalties, but panel agrees City worthy winners.

Memorable Quotes:

• “It was conspicuous by its absence on Saturday, I think, and the game...I was hoping for a good game and we didn’t get one.” — Barry Glendenning (03:38)
• “A fantastic goal. Great improvisation from Semenyo...he’s been fantastic.” — John Bruin (04:33)
• “It’s one of the probably best goals I’ve ever seen in an FA Cup final...But he just seems like a great guy as well.” — Dan Bardell (07:43)

Discussion Highlights:

• Debate over Semenyo's goal: among the best ever? (07:18–09:13)
• Panel traces Semenyo’s remarkable career journey – released repeatedly as a teen, worked up from non-league.
• Reflections on the flatness of the match compared to recent, livelier underdog finals.
• Discussion of Kushanov’s controversial defending and lucky escapes.

Timestamps:

• [03:05] – Start of FA Cup recap
• [07:11] – Semenyo’s rise and story
• [10:17] – Guardiola’s era stats discussed

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Chelsea's Managerial Change: Xabi Alonso In

Key Points:

• Chelsea appoint Xabi Alonso as “manager” – an important symbolic change after a run of “head coaches.”
• Noted risk for Alonso after difficult spell at Real Madrid; Chelsea themselves in deep financial trouble after missing Champions League.
• Early speculation: will Alonso have real control as “manager”?

Memorable Quotes:

• “The idea of being ejected from a nest of vipers to jump into a nest of vipers...like that sheep dragged out of a ditch by a tractor...” — Max Rushden (13:48)
• “It’s probably the best appointment that Chelsea fans could hope for. And by giving him that manager title, you’d hope...he’ll be involved in the transfers...” — Dan Bardell (15:32)
• “I think they’re going to be a bit of a mess financially and that’s what he’s walking into, which doesn’t sound ideal.” — Barry Glendenning (15:32)

Timestamps:

• [11:31] – Xabi Alonso’s appointment discussed

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Premier League Relegation Drama: Newcastle 3–1 West Ham

Key Points:

• Newcastle cruise against mistake-prone, mentally shot West Ham.
• West Ham’s tactics and defending dissected; panel agrees relegation stems from failings “at the start” and middle of the season, not just the run-in.
• Emotional scenes: West Ham fans’ despondency, Nuno’s visible despair.

Memorable Quotes:

• “You can’t be giving anyone a head start in the Premier League, least not when you’re a team absolutely desperate for points.” — Dan Bardell (21:05)
• “Yesterday was just a shambles...the playing three at the back, starting Callum Wilson. Why not start Cassianos, who was excellent?” — Barry Glendenning (25:32)

Timestamps:

• [20:40] – Start of relegation discussion
• [22:21] – John Bruin on West Ham’s “agonies”

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Newcastle’s Season & Next Steps

Key Points:

• Asulo again impresses; debate over Newcastle’s transfer strategy and Eddie Howe’s job security.

Notable:

• “Disappointing season for Newcastle, there’s no doubt about that...but let’s see – big summer ahead.” — John Bruin (27:57)

Timestamps:

• [27:18] – Newcastle player discussion

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Manchester United 3–2 Forest, Carrick Era, Bruno Fernandes & Handball

Key Points:

• Entertaining end-of-season match; Bruno praised for delivering standout displays in a poor side.
• Handball controversy returns: confusion, frustration from panel and coaches alike at VAR’s lack of consistency.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Don’t know what to think with handball...are many handballs intentional? I can’t think many are.” — Dan Bardell (32:03)
• “The handball law is a mess.” — Barry Glendenning (33:42)
• “Let’s recognize Bruno for having a great season.” — John Bruin (31:22)

Timestamps:

• [28:45] – United–Forest game analysis
• [32:02] – VAR/handball discourse

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Chelsea, Conference League and UEFA Financial Concerns

Highlights:

• Intense debate over the value (or otherwise) of Conference League spots for big clubs like Chelsea.
• Fears of further UEFA FFP sanctions discussed (15:32–17:51).

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Race for Europe: Villa’s Triumph, Liverpool Discord

Key Points:

• Aston Villa secure Champions League football; critical financial boost and point of pride after strong finish.
• John McGinn’s goal and Watkins’ post-snub form highlighted.
• Liverpool’s season falls apart: Mo Salah’s social media drama, Arne Slot’s grim start, squad tensions.

Notable Quotes:

• “Villa need to win a trophy desperately...also financially need to be in the Champions League to continue this journey.” — Dan Bardell (38:11)
• “That dressing room is not a healthy one...players seem to have turned against Arne Slot very publicly and that’s a problem.” — Barry Glendenning (41:14)
• “Social media has been a problem for Liverpool.” — John Bruin (41:44)

Timestamps:

• [36:44] – European qualification explained
• [37:18] – Villa–Liverpool discussion
• [39:47] – Salah’s Instagram post & Liverpool morale

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Round-up: Everton, Brentford, Leeds, Wolves

Key Points:

• Everton: Big win, potential for Conference League; emotional send-off for Seamus Coleman (“what a signing he has been for them.” – [45:16])
• Brentford: Now 8th, but poor recent form.
• Leeds: Late win; Calvert-Lewin impresses.
• Wolves: Unremarkable draw.

Timestamps:

• [44:44] – Everton segment
• [46:23] – Brentford and other matches

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Scottish Premiership Drama: Hearts’ Heartbreak, Celtic’s Title, Pitch Invasion

Key Points:

• Hearts within three minutes of a historic title; handball penalty swings momentum; Celtic net late winner.
• Game marred by premature pitch invasion. Hearts unable to say goodbye to fans. Debate around appropriate sanctions.

Memorable Quotes:

• “These fans invaded the pitch in such number to stop and curtail the game...the Hearts players were huckled off the pitch by club staff. They didn’t get a chance to find their own supporters.” — Ewan Murray (52:30)
• “There should be significant action against Celtic...a stand closed for three games would have an effect.” — Ewan Murray (54:54)
• “Martin O’Neill—the 74-year-old, out of the scene for a while, comes back, simple messaging, straightforward...worthy of huge praise.” — Ewan Murray (56:25)

Timestamps:

• [49:41] – Start of discussion with Ewan Murray
• [50:36] – Hearts' performance & penalty
• [52:30] – Pitch invasion & aftermath

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Scotland at the World Cup: Prospects and Concerns

Key Points:

• Cautious optimism but real worry around squad depth and Clark’s over-loyalty to certain players.
• Expectation: group-stage struggles.

Memorable Quotes:

• “I have a slight sinking feeling at this World Cup for Scotland. I don’t think their squad is strong enough...Steve Clark is overly loyal to some.” — Ewan Murray (58:19, 60:03)

Timestamps:

• [58:19] – Scotland’s World Cup chances

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Noteworthy & Funny Moments

• Handball Law Meeting: “I would very much like to attend that meeting because I don’t know either.” — Barry Glendenning (33:42)
• Mo Salah's ‘Heavy Metal’ Post: The group debates if Mo/players even write their own social captions. “Very chat GPT, if you ask me.” — Dan Bardell (43:18)

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Episode Structure & Key Segments

| Segment | Topic | Timestamps | |---------|--------|------------| | 1 | FA Cup Final & City’s Double | 03:05–11:30 | | 2 | Chelsea/Xabi Alonso appointment | 11:31–17:51 | | 3 | Relegation battle & West Ham collapse | 20:40–27:57 | | 4 | Newcastle/Narrative | 27:18–28:15 | | 5 | Man United, Carrick, VAR Handball | 28:45–36:44 | | 6 | European Picture/Villa’s Finish | 36:44–39:47 | | 7 | Liverpool Crisis & Salah | 39:47–44:47 | | 8 | Premier League Wrap (Everton etc.) | 44:44–48:25 | | 9 | Scottish Finale & Ewan Murray | 49:41–61:13 |

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Closing

The episode is capped by congratulations to non-league and lower-league cup winners and an emotional message from Ewan Murray on Scotland’s football highs and (recent) lows.

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This summary captures the heart of Football Weekly’s unique blend of analysis, banter, and storytelling, giving listeners a lively, insightful pathway through a dramatic footballing weekend.

Transcript

[Max Rushden]

This is the Guardian. We're lost and kickoff's coming up. I don't want to miss the lineup. I'm going to ask that man for directions. Hi there. We're trying to get to the stadium.

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[Max Rushden]

Nah, I'm just kidding.

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[Max Rushden]

How is their signal out here?

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[John Bruin]

Actually, can you pull up the way

[Max Rushden]

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[Jack Myers]

What makes a leader worth following?

[Tim Spengler]

What should you really care about in your job?

[Barry Glendenning]

As technology is changing so quickly, is

[Jack Myers]

it just gonna be about machines talking to other machines? I mean, should you quit your job and start something on your own, what would that take?

[Tim Spengler]

What does success and risk look like when we're all at the starting gate together?

[Jack Myers]

These are the questions we answer each week on Lead Human with Jack Myers and Tim Spengler.

[Barry Glendenning]

Join us each week and subscribe at your favorite podcast platform and YouTube.

[Jack Myers]

We'll tell stories, we'll hear from some of the best, and we'll try to figure this out together.

[Max Rushden]

Hello and welcome to the Guardian Football Weekly Business End of the season, Pod, FA Cup, Relegation, Europe and Fitbar. Manchester City win the cup. A beautiful Antoine Semeno goal in a far from fascinating game. But a Cup double for Pep. Could they be the last trophies he wins for City's Chelsea's seventh successive cup final defeat? But they have got Xabi Alonso, a fascinating appointment. Arne Slott must be delighted, although less delighted, at Mo Salah throwing under the bus again before his final game at Anfield if he's picked and then to the bottom. A win for West Ham would have taken them out of the relegation zone. But they decided not to defend at St. James's Park. It's not Over. Spurs need a point from their last two games. Surely, surely. Elsewhere, it looks like Carrick will day at Man United. A fun end of season game with Forest. With some more handball to discuss. We'll do the race for Europe. And then to poor Ewan Murray. We hoped he'd be happy. He won't be. Heart's three minutes away from winning the Scottish Premiership. But they couldn't hold on. Celtic walked one in at the end. A grim, premature pitch invasion. But another title for Martin o'. Neill. We'll do all that, answer your questions. And that's today's Guardian Football Weekly. On the panel today, Dan Bardell. Welcome.

[Dan Bardell]

Hello, Max.

[Max Rushden]

Hello, John Bruin.

[John Bruin]

Hello, Max Rushton.

[Max Rushden]

And good morning, Barry Glendenning.

[Barry Glendenning]

Hi, Max.

[Max Rushden]

Let's begin at Wembley, then with the FA cup final. Chelsea nil, Manchester City one. Antoine Semeno's little back heel in the 72nd minute. So man, City win a domestic cup double. The fewest shots in a cup final, Barry, since Opta started taking stats. It wasn't a classic.

[Ewan Murray]

No.

[Barry Glendenning]

Even going into it, it's probably the least interested. I've been in an FA cup final that I can remember in since I started watching football. I loved.

[Max Rushden]

Are you saying the magic's gone? Are you saying.

[Barry Glendenning]

Well, it was conspicuous by its absence on Saturday, I think, and the game, you know, I was. Watched it anyway. I was. I was hoping for a good game and we didn't get one. I think City won it pretty handily even though they only scored the one goal. And, and that was a really good goal worthy of any cup final. But Chelsea didn't bring a great deal to the party. I think they feel aggrieved because they think Kushanov could and probably should have been penalized for two penalties that they didn't get. I'm not so sure about either. Maybe the first one, but I think City were worthy winners. It was a disappointing cup final and it. It lived up to my expectations.

[Max Rushden]

But the goal, John, was great. Well, I mean, the, the one moment of beauty was there.

[John Bruin]

Yeah. A fantastic goal. Great improvisation from Semenya, one of the players of the season, both for Bournemouth and Manchester City. He's been fantastic. But yeah, it, it was disappointing. Can I say that the magic of the cup this season came at Maccles? I think I needed to drop that in at one point, didn't I?

[Max Rushden]

Was that this season? Yes, you can. And, and at St. Mary's if they weren't spying, I guess.

[John Bruin]

Yes, well, yeah, well, we'll see what we'll See about that. But the previous two FA cup finals, which were, you know, underdog affairs, Crystal palace winning it and those minnows, Manchester United winning it two years ago, those were superior finals to this one, weren't they? It felt to me like Chelsea tried to do a containment job. A bit like Liam Rossini attempted, I think, with Arsenal in those Carabao Cups. And it just. It just didn't happen, did it? It never caught a light. Kushinov, though, does appear to be one of those players that gets away with stuff. You know, there's certain defenders that just, you know, I remember Stefan Honcho used to play for Liverpool and he would always get away with like a handball or something like that. And there's a few examples of these players that just whatever it is, the referee just doesn't seem to notice it. I agree with Baron. They probably weren't penalties, but he's a very good player, by the way, I should say that.

[Max Rushden]

But yeah, Kushanov, it's not a. It's not like a cloak of invisibility like Rodri. There's not a subtlety. He's like. And this is one for the kids, like one of those big things out of Fraggle Rock, you know, that sort of just, you know, he sort of blunders about, I guess. Good. And it like, you remember his start, you know, like he has come on, but he has the air of clumsiness around him.

[John Bruin]

Yeah, he was. That first game, he was sort of in tears after how bad it started. And he has been a real find for Manchester City. And whatever happens with the management of that club is that there's a lot of good players there. So Menu obviously leading that list.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah. And we should talk about Semenya Dan and Barney wrote a piece, just starts sort of his. His career journey is fascinating, isn't it? You know, he was rejected by so many London clubs. He was let go by palace at 15. He stopped playing for a year. He went to the Wiltshire Sports Academy in Swindon and South Gloucestershire and Stroud College in Bristol. He got a break at Bristol City at loans at Bath City in the National League, South Newport in League two, Sunderland in League one. Eventually got to Bournemouth from Bristol City. And then this, even this move. Right. He has been absolutely seamless for him.

[Dan Bardell]

Some unbelievable research there, Max. That's quite the list of clubs that.

[Max Rushden]

Some menu that is just reading a Barney Ronnie article.

[Dan Bardell]

To be fair.

[Barry Glendenning]

Barney probably got all that information from when I said it on a pod about six months ago.

[Dan Bardell]

There we go. There we go.

[Max Rushden]

It Always comes back to that. Yeah.

[Ewan Murray]

Okay.

[Dan Bardell]

Barry's the real deal here.

[John Bruin]

Can I say that I wrote an article in January that featured all that information, so perhaps, Barney, you can.

[Max Rushden]

We all lay claim to it.

[John Bruin]

We can all lay claim to this menu.

[Max Rushden]

Wikipedia page.

[John Bruin]

Yeah.

[Dan Bardell]

I'll start by saying I've never wrote anything about Semenya, so I'm the odd one out there. It's a fascinating story. What a season he's had. I think that's 19 goals for the. For the season now across the two teams that he's played for. And it's actually like the second season in a row where it's. It's been like an underdog story of the person that scored the winner in the FA cup final, has had to face a lot of rejection and then ended up playing at the highest level after. After moving through the ranks. So it's a. It's a great story and it's a. It's a lovely goal as well. It's. It's one of the probably best goals I've ever seen in. In an FA cup final. As everyone else has already said. Like, not much else happened. Does that. Is that controversial?

[Max Rushden]

I don't. I mean, I don't know. I'm. I think they're a better FA cup final goal. I mean, I can only think of Ricky Villa now.

[Dan Bardell]

I'm too. You're too young. Too young for that.

[Max Rushden]

Steven Gerrard, Gerard. Yeah, you know, but I mean, it happened, dad, even if you weren't born. Like, I was only two. Like, it's a really good. I wouldn't put it up there in the. The top ten, but I can only think of two at the moment. If John or Barry want to pie pot. Keith Houchin.

[John Bruin]

That was the one that came to mind. Eric Canton off against Liverpool. 96.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah.

[John Bruin]

Yeah. That was very, very good. Dimito after a few seconds against Middlesbrough.

[Max Rushden]

Oh, yeah.

[John Bruin]

Yeah.

[Dan Bardell]

That was the only one I could think of. That was the only other one I

[John Bruin]

could think of who scored against Villa in 2000. Done. Who was the. There was that. Dimito as well. It was demon. Was it?

[Dan Bardell]

That was damage. But that was an awful goal. I'm not just saying that. That was a. That was. That was. That was a terr.

[John Bruin]

Yeah, it was a David James flop.

[Dan Bardell]

And Arsenal beat Villa4nil in 2015. And some bad goalkeeping in there as well from. From Shay Given, if I remember correctly. Max is right. Football did start before I was born, let's say in recent history. In recent history. It was one of the. One of the best FA cup goals that I've seen. But he just seems like a great guy as well. Like the stuff that he does, does off the pitch. I've seen videos of him engaging with, with fans and stuff, so I just think he, he deserves that. And when we talk about players, usually the Player of the Year impacts big moments. That is a big moment. I know people. Barry's just said about the magic of the cup and whatnot, but it's a big moment scoring a winner in an FA cup final. Most kids still now will dream of doing something like that. He's. He's unlucky not to be talked about more in the, in the Player of the year awards because he's been unbelievable for Bournemouth, who've had a terrific season and recovered brilliantly from him leaving, actually. But he's been brilliant for Man City as well. They were, they were further off winning the title when Semenya was there. He's helped claw it back, although they probably won't finish the job. He's been brilliant across the two teams that he's played for.

[Max Rushden]

Baz Guardiola's 24th final at Wembley, if he is going 17 major trophies in 10 years. It's good, Barry, isn't it?

[Barry Glendenning]

Well, it is. Of course it is. Charges notwithstanding and the legality of it all. Yeah, he's clearly a really good manager. You've posited the theory that he should take over I don't know, Gillingham or someone and see how he gets on with them. Nobody seems to know whether he'll go or stay. What I thought was a very interesting statistic is Erling Haaland once again exposed as a complete fraud and flat track bully by failing to score in yet another final for City. Although I thought he did play well in this game and I think it's, it's back to back FA Cups for Mark Gay with two different teams. But I think it's inherently wrong that those wins Sandwich being part of a Crystal palace team that was victim of arguably the greatest giant killing in the history of the competition at the hands of John's Mac. So yeah, that, that doesn't sit well with me. But congratulations to, to Marque.

[John Bruin]

Yeah.

[Max Rushden]

Off the pitch, John, Chelsea have confirmed Jabby Alonso as their new manager on a four year contract and they've called him manager, not head coach. Whether that is just symbolic or, you know, they're changing their mind, I mean it is a step away from their previous appointments. John, I think it's a gamble for Alonso because he didn't succeed at Real Madrid. Whether that's his fault or not, he didn't. Chelsea is impossible to know. We were talking about if you have enough money, credit in the bank. But if you failed at one club and then you go to another and you fail, like that is a risk.

[John Bruin]

I think it is a risk. It's interesting that he is taken that decision. I think this title of manager is not something he asked for. It was actually given him by the Chelsea hierarchy. From what I understand from catching a bit of the briefing, there is some element of them maybe admitting previous mistakes, though not in so many words of how things are. And considering that maybe having a head coach is not the most important person in the club was probably not the right direction to go in. And you know, if you're talking about big beasts in management, obviously at the top these days, you would have Pep Guardiola, who is unreachable. You'd have Luis Enrique at psg and below that, Xavier Alonso probably is. Is in that mold, isn't he, as a club builder. She did it by Leverkusen. And I think it's the Bayer Leverkusen thing that they're looking towards rather than Real Madrid. Now we've seen what has happened at Real Madrid since Xabi Alonso's left. And I don't think that's. That's probably shown that, you know, anyone would struggle with that nest of vipers. And let's just see how much of a nest of vipers Chelsea is for Xabi Alonso. Because when you consider the performance that those players threw in for Liam Rosenhea at Brighton, there is a lot to work with and sort out there, isn't there? But Xabi, listen, he's been the king across the water for Liverpool. I'm sure a club will get to later for a while. And yet he isn't going to Liverpool. There is a suggestion that Liverpool don't want him. And he wasn't that interested in Liverpool either. But Chelsea, perhaps they're paying him. Well, I would suggest that probably is the case.

[Barry Glendenning]

Well, probably.

[Max Rushden]

I mean, the idea of jumping out, you know, being ejected from a nest of vipers to jump into a nest of vipers. It is a bit like that video of that sheep dragged out of a ditch by a tractor and they're just running into another ditch, isn't it? I don't know, Dan. I mean, he, he. You know, I don't know what. I think the appointment's really interesting. I think it's a good move from Chelsea. I'm just not sure if it is from Alonso, but I don't know what you think any.

[Dan Bardell]

Anything can happen with Chelsea. Carney. I would suggest it would be an upgrade from. From Rossini, and I would guess it would be more in the mold of Maresca, which the players seem to get on with and, and seem to like. And obviously players have come out and hit out at that decision that, that he's not there anymore. So they wanted Rossini because he's a young coach and maybe was relatable because he was a young coach, but with no disrespect to him, hadn't achieved loads in the game. The Chelsea players will all know what Xabi Alonso has achieved in the game. They'll all know what. What teams he played for and the success he had. So he'll be someone that that young group will look up to. And there's. There's plenty there that's malleable at Chelsea as well. And that was what Alonso built at Leverkusen. He had a lot of malleable players. He had a defined system that just works for. For what he had there. There's already speculation that Chelsea will play three at the back, but I'm not convinced that he's actually wed to that. I think that was just what he decided was best for Leverkus and then he went to Madrid and did something different. I think it's probably the best appointment that Chelsea fans could hope for. And by giving him that manager title, you'd hope that there is some learnings from the Chelsea hierarchy and that, and that maybe he'll be involved in the transfers, which might upset sporting directors, who seem to rule the roost at Chelsea over the past few years. But if he's given that management title, you've got to imagine that he's going to have a say so on some of the players. And also you've got to imagine he wouldn't have gone there unless he thought that he did have some kind of say.

[Barry Glendenning]

So are Chelsea not facing a period of financial turmoil now, though, because of their failure to qualify for the Champions League? I mean, they've already been sanctioned by UEFA, who, unlike the Premier League, don't have any truck with clubs selling hotels and women's teams and whatnot to themselves. So I think they're going to be a bit of a mess financially and that. That's what he's walking into, which doesn't sound ideal.

[Max Rushden]

No.

[Dan Bardell]

Am I right in thinking that Chelsea can't. Might not qualify for Europe and that Alonso would probably be more pleased with that than he would be if they somehow make it into the, into the Conference League.

[Max Rushden]

Well, I think 8th gets it, doesn't it? So we'll get something so they, you know, they're currently not in the top nine. That's quite extraordinary looking at that.

[Dan Bardell]

Alonso will probably want that, won't he? Manchester United have benefited from that this season, not having the extra load in Europe. I think a team like Chelsea, if you're not in the Champions League, you don't want to be in anything.

[Max Rushden]

I mean, look, if they're happy to lose on Tuesday night, I'm more than happy to, to take that, John.

[John Bruin]

Chelsea can avoid sanctions from UEFA by not qualifying for UEFA competition. There was a bit of whisper that they did not want to go back to the Conference League. Now, I'm not suggesting anything there, but, you know, it would be helpful if they weren't in it. But yes, they could probably do without another UEFA Financial. Well, look through the accounts, let's put it that way.

[Max Rushden]

And actually, if you look at like Manchester United this year, Barry, this is sort of weird thing about qualifying for Europe or not qualifying for Europe. If you do have a year where you're not in Europe and you have time on the training ground and you have just fewer games, obviously you're just going to be fresher and better in the league.

[Barry Glendenning]

Yeah, you've more time to train. A new coach has more time to impose his philosophy. A team like Chelsea being in the Conference League is a bit of a joke, you know, that is not what the Conference League was designed for. And the financial benefits of being in the Conference League are negligible. And they would also risk incurring further wrath from UEFA. So I, I would be entirely on board with this idea that they don't want to be in it because there's no real benefit to being in it.

[Max Rushden]

All right, that'll do for part one. Part two, we will do the bottom of the Premier League. Hi, POD fans. Max here. Barry's here too.

[Barry Glendenning]

Hello.

[Max Rushden]

Football Weekly is supported by Gradient fc. Now, Barry, we've talked a lot on the POD about football analytics, XG and all that. And all those POD fans who are deep into football analytics will probably already know Gradient Sports. They work with pro clubs across Europe's top leagues to provide player performance insights. But they're now bringing that same pro level analysis directly to fans through the Gradient FC app.

[Barry Glendenning]

Sounds interesting, Max. What can it do?

[Max Rushden]

Well, each match is graded by a team of experts who evaluate over 2,000 player actions per match, not just by outcome, but by execution. So, for example, a completed pass that leads the receiver into danger is graded negatively, while one that puts a receiver in on goal is graded positively.

[Barry Glendenning]

Sounds like common sense.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah. And with Gradient fc, you get some of the deepest metrics available to ordinary fans, like line breaking passes, dribbles into dangerous positions, and chance creations. Now, I know you hate making match predictions, Barry, but maybe all that could change with Gradient fc. With head to head player comparison tools that show you who's best across more than 100 grades and metrics, it's easy to build and defend any prediction. And here's something else that will appeal to you, Barry. It's free.

[Barry Glendenning]

Okay, I'm surprised to hear that, Max.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah, well, explore it for [e-mail] or download the Gradient FC app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

[John Bruin]

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[Max Rushden]

Welcome to part two of the Guardian Football Weekly. Let's start St James's park, then Newcastle 3, West Ham 1. I mean, I have never cheered a Newcastle victory more and I did say last year, yes, I was. I was full piff for the. For the game. There is a decent chance that neither Spur. I did say decent chance neither spurs or West Ham will get another point. And the Hammers, Dan, in this game just totally wilted, didn't they?

[Dan Bardell]

Yeah, you. You can't give away goals like that anyway. But when you're in the situation that West Ham are in, they. They just seem to have froze a little bit over the last Few weeks, like putting a good performance against Arsenal. I think the Brentford game was either the game before that or the. Or the game before where I think they actually played well, but they still managed to defend not great and. And lose by. By a large margin at the crucial time when maybe people were looking at Tottenham to be the ones that wouldn't stand up and be counted. It's almost like that's what's happened to West Ham. And when they went down, they did respond and they did have some chances, made some changes, but you can't be giving anyone a head start in the Premier League, least not when you're a team that is absolutely desperate for points. Like, you could see Nuno on the. On the sideline, almost like, we haven't done anything like that in my whole tenure. And now right at the business end, we've suddenly started defending like clowns.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah. Producer Silas said he'd never seen Micah Richards so animated, which is pretty animated if you think about how animated Mica Riches can get about West Ham's defending. John. And like, the first and the third goals are just. They're just so. They're like. I mean, it's cliche to say Sunday League, but they are just. You cannot. At this stage of the season. Are you just. Oh, I just feel for the West Ham fans.

[John Bruin]

Yeah. Yeah. I actually watched this game with my pal Andy, who is a listener and West Ham fan, and he went through all types of agonies. And, you know, we tried to make him see the best of it, but there was not much to be seen. Louise Taylor's intro just starts with, why did you play three at the back? Why. Why did he decide to do this? Why did Nuno do this? We've always talked, haven't we, about how implacable Nuno is, But we saw the agonies, you know, the rubbing of the cranium, the sort of. You know, and the thing is, it didn't really. It was like Pep, you know, when Pep starts scratching his face like that in slower motion, I suppose, you know, that just. I suppose that didn't really transmit much positivity to his players. Obviously. That's one thing you could say. There was that brief flurry after the Castellanos goal, which, by the way, what a goal that was. Oh, that was a 101 great goals, you know.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah, it was, wasn't it?

[Dan Bardell]

Oh, wow.

[Max Rushden]

And John, I really did like. And maybe it's eas when your team are 3 nil up and you don't have a whole lot to play.

[Barry Glendenning]

For.

[Max Rushden]

But there was a really healthy old school applause from the home crowd. Like whole ripples of applause around St. James's park for that goal.

[John Bruin]

Yeah, Knowledgeable crowd up at St. James's aren't they? They love the football, but, you know, it's a game that meant very little to Newcastle. But and this is something we've seen other teams over the weekend, it's like you've got to beware those teams because they're playing with an element of freedom that the West Ham that have gone there full of tens are not able to have that freedom. And it just came apart so badly. And Dan's right. West Ham, just at that point when they needed to turn it on. I remember we had a chat, Max, and you were saying, West Ham are doing a bit. I think was your description of it Very, very descriptive. But they've not done enough of a bit, have they? The bit hasn't happened for them and they've not put enough pressure on Tottenham.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah, I mean, I suppose, Barry, actually, it's. It's the start of the season. When you analyze West Ham, if they are to go down and I'm not counting my. You know, there's time for Tottenham to really not stand up and not be counted, you know.

[Barry Glendenning]

Oh, come on.

[Max Rushden]

No, no, no, no. I'm sorry, Barry. I'm not. I am not jinxing this, you know. Okay. They're playing a Chelsea side who we've just discovered actively do not want to win, who just lost the ever Cup Final. And they have another game as well against Everton, who can't do anything as well. But still, I'm not counting my tickets, but if you're West Ham, it actually is the start, you know, has turned it around a bit in this. Just a bit again.

[Barry Glendenning]

Well, it was the start and then they got better and then they got had a. Lost a couple of games or drew games they should have won or lost games they should have drawn. And then yesterday was just a fiasco from start to finish, more or less. Jared Bowens said afterwards, we've created this mess that we're in and I'm going, are you talking about yesterday's mess? The. The general mess, the mess at the start of the season. So I think it's done. They're going to go down and I. They can't have any complaints. But yesterday was just a shambles. And even the team selection, the playing three at the back, the starting Wilson, who's Callum Wilson, who's sort of been their finisher this season, why not start Cassianos, who was excellent when he came on. I mean we just. We're not allowed to have nice things. Tottenham going down would be a nice thing. Hearts winning the Scottish Championship would have been a nice thing. Leeds beating Chelsea in the FA cup semi final would have been a nice thing. It would have given us a better final, probably. But they froze in that semi final for whatever reason. And yeah, football is a cruel master.

[Max Rushden]

It is, I mean a nod to the director on Match of the Day or the editor who managed to actually sort of make this beautiful, beautiful narrative arc cutting to like increasingly isolated West Ham fan, you know, at the start, all looking sad, but looking sadder and sadder and the crowd being sparser and sparser just as everything went on. It was like a. It was like a beautiful story of just seeing that agony. A word on Newcastle, John. I mean the season hasn't been great. A Sula's got five in his last eight, you know, could he turn into a. A great Newcastle number nine with Volta Marder in behind.

[John Bruin]

Could that work? But the suggestion is I think they're going to try and get Volta. Madder is not particularly. We'd like to get rid of him, to be quite honest. I think they'd like to cash him out if they can. I mean, we're Walter Mada fans. I know, but I don't think anyone in Newcastle is or at the club. I think that's the ps. Our opinion counts for nothing up there, it appears. But yeah, I mean he did score a decent goal though. It couldn't have been much easier for him, could it really? Thanks to West Ham's defending.

[Max Rushden]

True.

[John Bruin]

But yeah, Asulo, yeah, he's been around a bit longer than you might think. But yeah, he did score that wonderful goal against Manchester United and he scored those two good goals. There's a player there, isn't there? There's something to work with for. And we assume it is going to be Eddie Howe the manager, don't we? I mean, I think Eddie Howe assumes it's going to be Eddie Howe. But it's been a disappointing season for Newcastle, there's no doubt about that. And there are questions obviously over how interested the Saudi Overlords are and whether Eddie Howes had a bit too much power, you know, in a sort of reverse of the Xabi Alonso situation that we were talking about before. Let's see, let's see. Big summer ahead for Newcastle. Big summer.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah. Shout out for Kieran Trippier. He was interviewed moments after he came off to sit on the Bench played his last game for Newcastle. It's been a really good signing for them. And in terms of right backs leaving the Premier League, he had a slightly better a few minutes and Seamus Coleman, but we'll get. We'll get to the wonderful Seamus Coleman.

[John Bruin]

I was going to say Max. He was interviewed while West Ham was still playing to rescue themselves, which as I said, my. My West Ham supporting friends found deep. Had that deeply disrespectful. He's like, we're trying to get back in the game here and that, you know, they're treating it like soccer aid, you know.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah, well, I went to one, I've been to one game at the Maracana and I had Flamengo playing. I have no idea who it was only about 15,000 in there. You know, it wasn't a cauldron. An Adriano, you know, the old big Adriano.

[John Bruin]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Max Rushden]

Really big at this, you know, I mean physically really big. He looked like he was playing soccer aid. But half time, he did a half time interview and he was basically on the pitch for the whole 15 minutes and he was thinking, he's the manager thinking, where's. Where's Adriano? Why isn't he like, I've got some tactics to do here. Anyway, let's go to Old Trafford then. Man United 3, Forest 2. Quite a good fun game this end of season vibe to it. Three things to discuss, I think in this Bruno Fernandes, the handball. Non handball, handball. And Michael Carrick probably agreeing a two year deal. We'll do it in that order for no particular reason. Maria says, can John explain to everyone why the individual Bruno Fernandes should get the individual player of the Year award despite not being in the best team? I don't understand why people argue against it. Because he hasn't won any trophies. He reached that assist record and he has been like stunningly good this season in a team who have got better but have been bad for lots of it.

[John Bruin]

Yeah, well, I think she's referring to a tweet that the Football Writers association retweets on X which was. I said, you know, the best player doesn't necessarily play for the best team. Manchester United have been nowhere near the best team in the league, but Bruno Fernandes has had an outstanding season. Now you might say he's had an outstanding half season which has certainly got better since Michael Carrick took over. But he also, if you were willing to rummage through the slime of the Ruben Amarim era, if you're really feeling want to Feel bad about yourself. You will see that Bruno, who played a deeper role in that, worked pretty hard then and played pretty well for Amarim as well. But then this assist record, this game, obviously equal to record, but there was a couple of times where it was like, shoot here. This is what you're supposed to shoot at this point. Normally, Bruno, you would shoot, but you're trying to do an assist, aren't you? When Joshua Xerxe is the guy you're trying to assist, it's not going to come off because he's not going to score, because he's not good enough to score. So. Yeah, but I mean, Bruno's had a brilliant season. The other players had a great season. As Dan said before, Semenya has been fantastic. Obviously, there's a raft of Arsenal players. You know, Declan Rice, Gabrielle Saliba, you know David Ryan, all those. And I suppose the vote is split for Arsenal players. You could say that. But come on, let's recognize Bruno for having a great season. And Manchester United were in a hell of a mess when Michael Carrick took over. And Bruno has helped lead them back into, if not the promised land, into some element of respectability where. I don't want to turn off my television when Manchester United come on.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah. Also, we shouldn't forget Harry Wilson had the best two months of any footballer ever at one point during the season. Sensible. Steve says, I'd love another conversation about nobody understanding the handball br. And then lots of people saying this was a good decision and not saying this was a bad decision. And Bumo does kind of control it with his arm. Dan and his chest. Michael Salisbury sent to the screen and he ignored the screen. It's the 17th time in seven seasons the refs ignored VAR. I think Salisbury has done it before. I mean, we always like a referee sticking to his guns. Should he have. Do we not know anymore? Are our brains just addled with just handball angst?

[Ewan Murray]

Yeah.

[Dan Bardell]

Don't know what to think with handball. My initial gut reaction was that's handball. And the reasoning given that it wasn't intentional. Are many handballs intentional? I can't think that too many handballs that get given in the general Premier League season are intentional. And I think even Buemo scores that himself because it's hit his arm and he's the goal scorer, I think it probably gets disallowed. But because the game's carried on and it's someone else who's put the ball into the. Into the back of the net, it's not looked at in the same way. That's. That's my understanding of the. Of the handball rule. But as we. As we discuss every week, I'm not sure I understand the handball rule, but it's handball, in my opinion, and the goal should get disallowed.

[Barry Glendenning]

I think there was a controversial handball. I can't remember what it was because there's been so many of them at the very start of the season. And we discussed it. It on the first part of the season and I said at the time, we're going to be having this discussion every pod. And so it has come to pass. I was bewildered by that decision. Vitor Pereira was bewildered. I'm bewildered that some people think it was correct decision. But Pereira said afterwards, we need to have a meeting together to understand what is a handball, what's a block, etc. And so on, because at this moment we don't know. And I would very much like to attend that meeting because I don't know either. And I suspect the big problem is that quite a few referees don't seem to know either, or they certainly don't haven't reached the consensus. The handball law is a mess.

[Max Rushden]

Total mess. Who do we have at the meeting? Luis Suarez is at the meeting. We get Maradona in a sort of weekend of Bernie style.

[Barry Glendenning]

Peter Shilton.

[Max Rushden]

I don't want to be at the meeting, but they do need to, they need to fix it, John. I mean, I'm lost because the head of referee, some. This guy who's, you know, in UEFA, who's pushing it and I forget his name. I really want to yell at him, but I, you know, it's not in my nature. And he, as you said, we don't have any power. No one listens to us, John, but it's a. It's a disaster at the moment.

[John Bruin]

It certainly is. I was reminded you of the day, do you remember at the 2002 World Cup, Torsten Frings denied fit for Germany, denied the usa. It was described by David Pleat, rather unfortunately as a last gasp hand job on the line.

[Max Rushden]

I don't think you ever. It's not the time or the place, David, if you ask, if you ask me, whatever. Whatever Torsten Frings wants to do,

[John Bruin]

that's always stuck in my mind for some reason. But yeah,

[Max Rushden]

you don't have to end your point, John. You've. You've made. That's all you know, at least you. You've made the handball conversation fun. And that's what we needed someone to do. Casemiro's Final game at Old Trafford came off in the 80th minute. He had a renaissance, didn't he? Started terribly and then got good. And we should talk about Michael Carrick two year deal. By all accounts he has won 11 of 16. I'll come back to you, John. I mean, how do you feel about this?

[John Bruin]

I think he's done enough to land the job. I think he is perhaps fortunate there isn't a wealth of other options that they feel comfortable with. Perhaps there's a suggestion that someone like Andoni Iriola might not have the personality, which I think is a little bit unfair. But the idea that he is not the empire builder that they wanted. And I'm not gonna say it almost feels like Michael Carrick is like. Almost like an extended caretaker. It's like Carrick's there and we'll see how it goes. But maybe there might be a better guy out there. Maybe a Luis Enrique appears on the market or something like that. But the whole point was that they didn't want to repeat the Solskjaer situation of a few years ago.

[Dan Bardell]

But they haven't.

[John Bruin]

They've been patient. Remember how trigger happy they were with giving Solskjaer the job after the PSG win? And they've thought about it, they've considered it. The various big Sir Jim's acolytes have come to the decision. Presumably Jim made the decision or will be taking credit for the decision. If it goes wrong, then it won't have been Jim's decision. So that's how it's going to be. But I think Michael Carrick's done a fine job. A club like Manchester United, it helps to understand the club in a certain sense, doesn't it? Because if we consider his predecessor, he didn't understand the club. He didn't want to understand the club. And that was where it all went wrong. Yeah.

[Max Rushden]

Let's talk about the race for Europe. Because City have won both the Carabao cup and the FA cup this season, those European spots get sort of passed down the league. So Champions League will go down to fifth unless Villa finish fifth. And then sixth and seventh will be the Europa League and the Conference League will be eighth. Unless sixth is the Champions League but they don't get an extra spot is my understanding. But somebody yell at me if, if they do. Villa beat Liverpool 4:2 in the race for fourth place. Dan, you were there before. We get on to the big talking point which is ar slot. What did you make of the game?

[Dan Bardell]

Yeah, it's a great game, probably the opposite of of what I was expecting because we all remember when Villa had a big European tie last time round. They lay down and and let spurs come to Villa park and and play them off the park. And in all fairness I was probably expecting something more like that that than what I saw. But Villa were galvanized doing Imre went very strong. I think there's some questionable refereeing in there which galvanized the crowd which in turn galvanized the players as well. They've got some players Villa in in terrific form. Ollie watkins has scored 10 goals I think since he was left out of of Thomas Tuchel's England squad. You'd think now he's not going to be left out of the. Of the World cup squad. He's. He's come back in scintillating form in the. In the the back end of the season. McGinn's goal was. Was lovely a lovely reward for another fantastic season for him. He spoke about always wanting to get into double figures in his career. That's the first time he's done it. What, what a way to do. It was a. It was a quite magnificent goal. Even the first goal was a really well worked set set piece that set Villa on on their way. The two they conceded were were pretty basic from, from van dijk. So Austin McPhee very well done for the. The well work set piece goal not so well done for the the. The two that Villa conceded. But to get Champions League football again is. Is absolutely magnificent and to an extent I think it takes off a layer of pressure to Wednesday's Europa League final because Villa need to win a trophy desperately. They haven't won one for so long. But also the way the finances are and the rules they absolutely need to be in the Champions League to give themselves a chance of continuing this journey under Emery. And I think this is his, his biggest achievement yet. Getting this squad squad into the. Into the Champions League a game early I think it's an unbelievable achievement. And for him not to be in the list of top six contenders for manager of the Year I find frightening because Villa had an awful start. People didn't expect much from Villa this season and they've sewed up Champions League with a game to spare and have a European final on Wednesday.

[Max Rushden]

Clapper and Gill says slots keen to tell us that Liverpool can't compete against a low block. Now we see they can't compete against a team that attacks them. What can they do? And then Mo Salah posted somewhere, I think Instagram probably said us Crumbling to get another defeat this season was very painful. Not what our fans deserve. I want to see Liverpool go back to being the heavy metal attacking team that opponents fear and back to being a team that wins trophies. That is the football I know how to play. That's the identity that needs to be recovered and kept for good. It cannot be negotiable and everyone that joins this club should adapt to it. I bet on a slot was like, oh, sake, Mo, do us a favor.

[Barry Glendenning]

Yeah. I mean Mo is leaving Liverpool. He has one game left if selected. It would be incredibly petty not to select him on the back of that Instagram post, but I think entirely justifiable and not give him his farewell. You wonder whatever you make of what he said. And I mean Liverpool were remarkably easy for Villa to play against in that game. And Ollie Watkins even said himself after the game that they made it easy for him by giving him loads of space to run into.

[Ewan Murray]

Yeah.

[John Bruin]

What?

[Barry Glendenning]

Why Mo? What? Just keep your. Just say nothing. And I think Curtis Jones put out a similar tweet, a little shorter and less eloquent, but along the same lines. Thank you for your continued support in a disappointing season. It's way off the standards expected at this football club. Now, I'd say Mo is on firmer ground when it comes to criticizing Liverpool's style of play than Curtis Jones. But who hasn't been particularly impressive for Liverpool the last few times I've seen him. But I think that dressing room is not a healthy one. There seem to be factions. There seem. Players don't seem to be getting on too well with each other and they seem to have turned against Arne Slott very publicly and that's a problem for him.

[John Bruin]

It's funny, isn't it, that the Arne Slot thing is everything is pointing to him being removed, whereas it isn't going to happen. And that's against the will of quite a sizable proportion of Liverpool fans. And it appears some of the players like all this social media stuff. You know, I think at one point there was nine players that had liked them, including a couple. But I think Leone, who has played less than 90 minutes for the manager like this, you know, he's been out with an injury.

[Barry Glendenning]

Harvey Elliott, who's currently on loan at Villa but not playing.

[John Bruin]

Yeah. Who's somewhere lost on the M6 and has been all season. And social media has been a problem for Liverpool. I don't know if you saw this. Dominik Szobozzlai appeared in one of these sponsored Instagram things, eating McDonald's and this has not gone down well with fans. I saw a great tweet actually over the weekend Sobazzi who think us here would have said it's had a really good season for Liverpool have been alone in that is coming for criticism I think for fans and someone described it as Strava's lie because his Strava stats are very good so he runs around a lot but this appears the criticism that's all he does is run around a lot And Liverpool at this point appear to be turning in on each other, don't they? The leadership at the club is supposed to be provided by Arne Slot who in my observation whenever I've been in Liverpool games spends a lot of time defending himself because he is aware of his own unpopularity and Mo Salah's tweet referred to heavy metal football which obviously is a nod back to Jurgen Klopp, a manager who let us recall he didn't have the easiest of relationships with at all times. There was had a bit of a kiss off didn't they? And the other question is who's writing these messages for these footballers? Is Mo Salah writing that does heavy metal football? Is that something in. In the Mo salad vernacular it feels

[Dan Bardell]

very chat JP Tama do you think.

[Max Rushden]

Do you think so? I I mean you know the seller like he very rarely says anything and when he says something he's there's a reason for doing it and maybe, who knows but like it is terrible news for Slot and like I mean it'd be hilarious if he didn't pick him at the weekend but I don't think that would do him any favors but it'd be interesting to see if he subs him off after the 88th minute if they have a warm embrace, you know.

[John Bruin]

Well it's just, it's a Danny roll and James Tavernier, isn't it where James Taverne for Rangers were supposed to have this big send off and he didn't pick him and he's just there in a suit. It would be cruel. I think one of the issues at this point is maybe Mohamed Salah maybe ought to look to his own performances this season and think think I've had a part to play in this because when I've seen him play he hasn't been the same player that we have so enjoyed over the years.

[Barry Glendenning]

Sorry just as far as I know John, I think Tavernier spat the dummy because he wasn't picked to start the game right and possibly refused to play any parity wouldn't Sit on the bench. So I think that's okay. I'm being slightly nitpicky here but. But I don't think it was a case that Raw refused to pick him.

[Max Rushden]

If one of them's in a suit and one's not then I'll have a better chance of knowing which Taver is which Tavernier. So that is useful for me. 31 at Everton. Good win for them, Barry. They could still make Europe, couldn't they?

[Barry Glendenning]

Yeah.

[Max Rushden]

And this was a really good win.

[Barry Glendenning]

It was really good win. They went behind. They blew Everton away in the second half. They need to be Chelsea next week week and hope for the best. And we've established that they will be Chelsea because Chelsea don't want to win. And I suppose this game was all about Seamus Coleman who was his last home game for Everton. What a signing he has been for them. What was it?

[Max Rushden]

60 grand?

[Barry Glendenning]

60 grand from Sligo Rovers. Slugger overs have probably spent the last 17 years hoping for a sell on fee that's now not going to materialize guys. But he's been a brilliant signing. Great ambassador for the club. Great player, doesn't cause an ounce of trouble. And we will gloss over his mistake's last goal.

[Max Rushden]

So sad, isn't it?

[Barry Glendenning]

Now is not the time. No.

[Max Rushden]

I also like End Le Fay. When asked why did you do a Spider man celebration? He said I like Spider man which I thought was good. I mean he did say like since I've been little and it's a sign for my little brother. But I just liked his opening line because I just like Spider Man. And a really good center forward play from Brian. So well done. Brentford drew two two with Crystal Palace. They're now eighth so that might be enough for conference league which is probably perfect for them. Although they haven't won in the league since February. Leeds beat Brighton 1 nil. Calvert Lewin in the 96th minute. So it's him or Watkins probably for get him on that plane. And Wolves won. Fulham won. I don't know if anyone has any strong thoughts on on any of those three games, John.

[John Bruin]

I was at Brentford and it did feel like it was slipping away from them though. They are in eighth and they're now relying on permutations and winning at Anfield. I suppose what they could do with is Liverpool all hating on each other through the week so that it makes it easier at Anfield. But a little unfortunate the Calvert Lewin goal, wasn't it the back pass for him. So Van Hecker. Yeah, just oh you know just one of those, he's like, oh no.

[Max Rushden]

And for Brugan as well has a real he really likes to run come out of his goal. Like he's got a real accidentally press Sprint on his controller and just run all over the place, I think. All right, that'll do for part two. Part three, you and Murray Assad, you and Murray will join us.

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Howdy, howdy ho, and welcome to Fantasy Fan Fellas. I'm Hayden, producer of the Fantasy Fangirls podcast and your resident lover of all things Sanderson.

[Jack Myers]

And I'm Stephen, your bookish Internet goofball,

[Tim Spengler]

but you can call me the Smash Daddy.

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And we are currently deep diving Brandon Sanderson's fantasy epic Mistborn. But here's the catch. Steven here has not read Mistborn before.

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[Ewan Murray]

Hey hey.

[Jack Myers]

So each week you'll get my unfiltered raw reactions to every single chapter.

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And along the way we'll do character deep dives, magic explainers, and Steven will even try to guess what. What's next? Spoiler alert. He'll be wrong.

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News flash.

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I'm never wrong.

[Max Rushden]

Episodes come out every Wednesday and you

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[Max Rushden]

Welcome to part three of the Guardian Football Weekly. Mark says, as a busy parent, I get to watch about one full uninterrupted football match per year. And Celtic v. Hearts was it. Surely the injustice of that penalty from last round would be undone. But alas, it was not. I feel deeply sad for Hearts, their fans, football neutrals around the world, and the Scottish Premiership. Now, the day after, in the cold light of day, I realized the saddest thing of all is that we'll be hearing a very sad Ewan Murray. It's not fair. I should have finished watching one battle after another. Ewan Murray joins us. Commiserations. Ewan.

[Ewan Murray]

Yeah, I should say, for balance, there's quite a lot of people will be delighted to hear a very sad Ewan Murray.

[Max Rushden]

Well, absolutely.

[Ewan Murray]

I think that message is reflective of a lot of people. I think Hearts have gained a lot of supporters over the last few. Few months and certainly over the last few weeks. So I think that that message you got is probably reflective of a. A broader or broader sentiment. Yeah. Sorry, Max.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah, no, no, that's okay. I. I think a lot of people were supporting them because they're the underdogs and we haven't seen Hearts win the title for. For Donkeys and Donkeys years. And they were so close. I mean, Celtic were knocking at the door. You know, hearts take the lead. There's one of those handball penalties, which I understand why it's a handball, but I would. Wouldn't like it given. And then you held on until three minutes to go, you must have started thinking, okay, or because of the pressure Celtic were putting on. Were you just terrified?

[Ewan Murray]

Oh, I was terrified generally, yes. I have been for quite a while. I mean, in terms of the game itself, in the first half, Hearts played very well, went ahead. I think they had to get to halftime without lead. But the penalty, as you. You perfectly explained, Max, changed that. That dynamic. I think it was a penalty, but I think that's an element of the law, that it's unfair. On balance, I think that the. The penalty is not proportionate to the crime and inverted commas for that. And then the second half, yeah, Celtic were pushing, but, you know, I didn't feel it was inevit. Inevitable they would score, but when they did, and then some stuff that we all came on to, it all became a bit mad. But, yeah, I don't grudge Celtic at all. Their, their victory in the game and the championship. They run a form, I mean since March, so seven wins in a row is that of champions and they deserve to win it on that basis. But I was and remain pretty dispirited and angry about the way the, the game ended.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah, I mean, and actually I was listening to the radio and I think Pat Nevin was doing co comps and he was, he was saying like the whole world, like so rare that Scottish football has the high. You know, the world is looking at it. But there were reports from all over the world at this game because it was an interesting title race and quite often people po face to say these are scenes you don't like to see and actually you do, but these are scenes you really don't like to see. You know, the game hasn't finished and Har's players are getting, they are getting manhandled and it's just not on.

[Ewan Murray]

If Celtic and Rangers had been involved in this title race, the whole world wouldn't have watched it in the manner they did with this. It was because it was the underdog story of, of Hearts and, and again, I completely accept in the club accept that you finish second best in that and that's fine. That's the way it happens. That's a sporting outcome. What was wrong was that these fans invaded the pitch in such a number to stop and curtail the game. I mean, it's an old fashioned point, but I believe quite strongly in it. Football players who shake hands at the end of a game, that's what happens. And they were denied that. The Har players were huckled off the pitch by club staff. They didn't get a chance to find their own supporters. I mean, Celtic are not prone to apologizing to other football clubs, but the fact that they did yesterday, I think shows you that there's an acknowledgment there that the way the game finished and the way the season finished is wrong anyway. But I think in respect of everything that happened before and everything Harley contributed to the league, to the championship, it was very, very wrong and it was sad. That there should be significant action taken against Celtic, I believe, for the fact that that happened in the final day of the season. Sure.

[Max Rushden]

You've written a piece saying you're skeptical that anything will happen because the league are slightly. They're reluctant to punish anyone or Celtic and Rangers specifically because of the power that they have.

[Ewan Murray]

Yeah, a bit of both, yeah. I mean, essentially Scottish football is not alone, but Scottish football is run and controlled by the clubs so that you know, you're marking your own homework. So I remain skeptical that anything serious will happen, but it should. And I think there's people at Celtic. Actually Celtic are run by good people and Celtic have so many good fans who, as you pointed out, booed those who were on the pitch on Saturday. But I think there would be an element of Celtic and their supporters who would accept that there has to be a punishment for that and there has to be some kind of recompense to make people realize you can't behave like that. You can't, you know, whether the game is abandoned or not. This has become a bit of a conversation topic. I don't care. The game finished. Celtic won the game. That's okay. But the fact remains that the referee was forced to stop it. It and Har players were forced to come off a pitch because of the actions of, of a lot of supporters. And that's, that's not right. And there should be some, some kind of sanction for that.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah. What do you think should be the sanction?

[Ewan Murray]

Well, they should have a stand closed for three games or something like that. That in my experience, the way that you make football supporters think about their actions is you deny them the right to, to go to the game. So if you shut a stand and say a lot of you can't go for, for. I've plucked three games out of the air, but, you know, a number of games that, that, that will have an effect, I believe. But, you know, thankfully I'm not in charge of these things. But I, as I say, I would be astonished if anything close to that happens.

[Max Rushden]

And actually, you make a good point about the, you know, the majority of the Celtic fans who didn't really get a chance to really celebrate that, that goal, like the Callum Osman goal. If you're a football fan, it's so rare that you know you're going to score for so long. You know, like, it's literally like, like it's a, it's. It's a different way. But, you know, the goal from the halfway line for Scotland, you know, you've got, you've just got so long to.

[Ewan Murray]

Yeah, my, my thought at the time was there was absolutely nothing that could, that could go wrong for Osman that could stock him, stock him scoring. Nothing. Not a thing. There was even. There was. I don't know who it was. There was even a Celtic player alongside them. So if he, yeah, if he toppled over, there was someone else who was going to score. There was just There was just nothing that could happen. So you're right.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah. And it's just that that is so rare for you as a fan and you're just like, and this is it, we've won it and we've won it and like for them and for Martin o', Neil, which is extra extraordinary story. Right. And we were critical of him, and I think rightly so, for just saying that's a handball last week because that was just patiently. But like, like it's a sort of amazing season that he's had to turn up and then go away again, then come back and go, okay, and to win the title is. Yeah, incredible.

[Ewan Murray]

Yeah. I mean there's two elements of this fury, Theo. One was the Heartsman, obviously, but the other one's Martin o' Neill. And it is astonishing for him and I'm pleased for Martin. I like him a lot. I think he's very, very good, obviously what he does. And for him to come back and drag that selfie team over the line is hugely impressive. And listen, it's a nod towards old school, straightforward, simple management. This 74 year old guy who's been out of the scene for a while, he hasn't been to Celtic for 20 years, comes back, simple messaging, straightforward stuff. The players buy into it and respect him and it works. And that's worthy of huge praise. I thought, not for the first time, I thought on Saturday he looked exhausted after the game. I think this has taken a lot out of him and I understand that. But he's done a terrific job. I think you can overstate the significance of Celtic winning the league because I think they have still a lot of players at a Scottish level who borderline should do that and I don't think we should get carried away with that. But they were in a pretty good place even in March and Martin turned that round and as I say, for someone of his stage in life and someone of his skill set to do that I think is worthy of huge Praise.

[Max Rushden]

Yeah. The second oldest manager. 74. Second oldest manager to win the top flights behind 77 year old Bill street in 52, 53. So I'm not, I should, I should know who Bill Struth was managing. Unless you know, Ewan Levi's Ranger delivery.

[Ewan Murray]

Yes, that. Okay. He probably mars from the age of 16

[Max Rushden]

to 77. So look, I guess now we, we've talked about it already so we don't need to go through. We, we think this, you know, Hearts will stick around and it'll be interesting to see what Rangers and Celtic do next season. But I suppose your attention now turns. I don't know how much time you have off before, you know, off to the World cup to watch the tartan army. Ewan.

[Ewan Murray]

Absolutely. Yeah. And respect the parts they need to adjust. And it will be a big adjustment because the expectations have risen massively. Play they're going to be back in European football next season. There's. There's going to be quite a lot to handle which would be straightforward. And it may well be a case of two steps forward and one back. What Celtic do with their manager in their squad is going to be very interesting. If the Rangers manager, having spent more money, can improve his squad, who knows? So, you know, there's an intriguing set of months ahead and Scotland in their squad tomorrow. I have a slight sinking feeling with this World cup for Scotland. I don't think their squad is. Is strong enough. Sorry. Maybe it's just the mood I'm in, but I felt this way for a while. I'm not at all convinced that Scotland are going to be a significant factor in this World cup. But we shall see. I knew you touched on it, Max. But Scotland supporters in Boston and Miami will be wonderful for the color if not anything else. But I am slightly despondent in advance about how that team might perform.

[Barry Glendenning]

Scotland have to be Haiti in their first game by more goals than they. They are going to lose against Brazil by in their last group game. Basically. I think my concern about Steve Clark, who has done a great job to get them qualified and we all remember that game against Denmark is one of the highlights of the season for me. That crazy game with the crazy goals. But Steve, his. His loyalty to players. The news broke yesterday. Tommy Conway will miss the World cup because he's got an ankle injury. I think. So that's sad for him. But like he won't pick. Ross Stewart will. He won't pick. Who's your man at Hull? Who said Ollie McBurney. They're unlikely to get picked and they probably should get picked.

[Ewan Murray]

I agree. I think he might pick Ross Stewart now. Actually, I think Conway's injury might. Might mean Stuart gets picked. But you. You've articulated. Barry, what my concern is. I think there's nothing wrong with having continuity and fostering a team spirit in the national team and picking the same players to a point. But I think he is overly loyal to some. I mean, I made a point of watching McBurney and watching Stewart and to me both players are better than Lyndon Dykes. But Lyndon Dykes will go to the World Cup. So things like that I'm a bit uneasy with and I fear, because I also agree with you, Steve Clark has done a terrific job, but I fear if this goes wrong, the loyalty to certain. Certain players is going to be the stick that people use to hit them over the head. And. And then I think it becomes a bit of a kind of inauspicious, unfair way for things to. To end. But I. I think that's a. A live reality.

[Max Rushden]

Well, it is the constants in life that keep us going. You. And so we leave a despondent you and Mar. And we'll pick up with a despondent Urari after a goaller straw with Haiti on the 14th of June. Thank you, pal.

[Ewan Murray]

Thanks for cheering me up. Take care. You're all good.

[Max Rushden]

Our Scottish football correspondent Ewan Murray there just to say congratulations to Southend, who beat Wyldston 42 on penalties after a goalless draw in the FA Trophy 43,000 there. And the FA Vars happened early in the afternoon also. Nil. Nil AFC Stoneham beat fallen asleep on the Piccadilly line. Cockfosters 42 on penalties as well. So well done to Southend and Stoneham and that'll do for today. Thanks, everybody. Thank you, Dan.

[Dan Bardell]

Thank you, Max.

[Max Rushden]

Cheers, John.

[John Bruin]

Thanks for having me.

[Max Rushden]

Thank you, Barry.

[Barry Glendenning]

Thank you, Max.

[Max Rushden]

Football Weekly is produced by Silas Gray. Our executive producer is Ian Chambers. We'll be back on Wednesday.

[Ewan Murray]

This is the Guardian.