The Athletic FC Podcast: Episode Summary – "The Preview - Liverpool vs Newcastle"
Release Date: March 14, 2025
Host: Adam Levinthal
Featured Guests: Chris Woff (Newcastle Writer), Andy Jones (Liverpool Writer), Tim Spears (Neutral Observer)

Introduction

In this episode of The Athletic FC Podcast, host Adam Levinthal delves deep into the anticipated Carabao Cup Final between Liverpool and Newcastle United. Joined by Newcastle writer Chris Woff, Liverpool writer Andy Jones, and neutral observer Tim Spears, the discussion navigates through team dynamics, player performances, managerial strategies, and the overarching narratives shaping both clubs as they head to Wembley.

Building Up to the Carabao Cup Final

Newcastle United’s Journey and Current Sentiment
Chris Woff highlights the palpable excitement surrounding Newcastle reaching their second Carabao Cup Final in three years. Reflecting on their previous final appearance against Manchester United two years prior, Woff notes a shift in the club's trajectory and supporter mindset. While last year's loss was emotionally charged, this year feels more businesslike with tempered expectations, despite Newcastle being underdogs against a formidable Liverpool side.

“Everyone accepts that Newcastle are massive underdogs going up against the Liverpool team. It’s been businesslike and going into it with maybe not raised expectations but just the hope that on the one-off day, given what they did to Arsenal over the semi-final, they have a reasonable chance.”
— Chris Woff [05:22]

Liverpool’s Resilience and Opportunity
Andy Jones addresses Liverpool's challenging week, marred by their Champions League exit against Paris Saint-Germain. Despite recent frustrations, he emphasizes Liverpool's ability to rebound and seize silverware.

“Liverpool shouldn't need to pick themselves up for the Cup Final… there’s a number of players who weren't involved last season, for example, who'll be wanting to be a part of a trophy lift.”
— Andy Jones [04:26]

Neutral Perspective on the Final
Tim Spears shares his excitement, anticipating the strategic showdown and how both teams will approach the match from their respective vantage points.

“Just can't wait to see how it unfolds.”
— Tim Spears [04:49]

Team News and Player Impact

Key Absences and Their Implications
The podcast discusses significant player injuries impacting both teams. For Liverpool, Trent Alexander-Arnold's absence is a notable blow, potentially hindering their attacking prowess.

Andy Jones elaborates on the tactical adjustments Liverpool might face without Alexander-Arnold:

“In possession, particularly because Jad Quanza will play right back. He's comfortable on the ball but not Trent’s passing range.”
— Andy Jones [17:48]

For Newcastle, the absence of Anthony Gordon due to injury disrupts their creative engine and left flank dynamics. Chris Woff underscores the challenges posed by missing Lewis Hall and Fann Botman, affecting Newcastle's defensive solidity and attacking options.

“Lewis Hall has been one of the most consistent performers, and losing him is a big miss.”
— Chris Woff [19:49]

Alexander Isak’s Future at Newcastle
Chris Woff provides insights into the ongoing speculation surrounding Alexander Isak's contract, emphasizing his current focus on the Cup Final and the club's strategic position ahead of future negotiations.

“His focus is on the here and now.”
— Chris Woff [13:39]

Managerial Strategies and Tactics

Eddie Howe’s Press Conferences and Leadership
Chris Woff comments on Newcastle's manager Eddie Howe, noting his calm demeanor and strategic approach in press interactions. Howe emphasizes harnessing emotional energy without letting it become overwhelming, aiming to channel Newcastle's historic yearning for silverware into effective performance on the pitch.

“We need emotion… channel it in the right way and make sure that it doesn’t make you go on the pitch.”
— Eddie Howe [07:20] (as interpreted by Chris Woff)

Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool Post-Defeat Motivation
Andy Jones speculates on Liverpool's mental fortitude post their Champions League exit, believing the team can compartmentalize setbacks and focus on clinching the Cup.

“Players like Salah and Nunez will want to be part of a trophy lift. It’s important they channel emotion correctly.”
— Andy Jones [09:20]

Tim Spears on Newcastle’s Tactical Opportunities
Tim highlights Newcastle's potential to exploit Liverpool's physical fatigue, suggesting that fresh legs could tilt the balance in their favor, especially if the match extends beyond regular time.

“If the game goes to extra time, Newcastle have more chance.”
— Tim Spears [10:35]

Tactical Analysis and Match Predictions

Newcastle’s Intensity vs. Liverpool’s Depth
Andy Jones draws parallels between Newcastle’s intensity against Liverpool and PSG’s playstyle, suggesting relentless pressure could disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm.

“The intensity that Newcastle can bring… there are few teams that can really live with it.”
— Andy Jones [23:18]

Physical and Mental Stamina at Play
Tim Spears points out Liverpool's recent physical struggles, attributing their exhaustion to last week's Champions League tie, which could be a decisive factor against a motivated Newcastle side.

“Liverpool look very tired… their physical state could show on Sunday.”
— Tim Spears [11:07]

Final Score Predictions
The panel offers varying predictions, reflecting their optimism and pessimism:

• Chris Woff: Newcastle to win 2-1 after extra time.

  “Newcastle are going to win 2-1 after extra time.”
  — Chris Woff [28:06]

• Andy Jones: Liverpool to triumph with a 2-1 scoreline.

  “I think it'll go to extra time and Liverpool will win 2-1.”
  — Andy Jones [28:31]

• Tim Spears: Predicts a close contest, leaning slightly towards Newcastle due to Liverpool's fatigue.

  “[...] I think Liverpool in 90 minutes, maybe one goal.”
  — Tim Spears [28:05]

Impact on Managers and Club Reputations

Eddie Howe’s Aspirations and Perceptions
Chris Woff discusses how securing a trophy could elevate Eddie Howe’s reputation, positioning him as one of the elite English managers capable of winning silverware, thus altering Newcastle’s and his own narrative in English football.

“Winning this trophy would give him so much goodwill and confirm how good a head coach he really is.”
— Chris Woff [24:33]

Stefan Slot’s Future at Liverpool
Andy Jones contemplates the significance of Slot potentially securing his first trophy with Liverpool, enhancing his managerial credentials and solidifying his status within the club.

“It would be a massive boost for him to do that.”
— Andy Jones [26:32]

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, Adam Levinthal encourages listeners to enjoy the upcoming Premier League fixtures and international breaks, highlighting the ongoing narratives that continue to shape the football landscape.

“Enjoy the weekend as much as you can, despite the nerves that will be jangling.”
— Adam Levinthal [28:31]

The panel underscores the significance of the Carabao Cup Final not just as a standalone match, but as a pivotal moment that could redefine managerial careers, player futures, and club trajectories in English football.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Chris Woff [05:22]:
  “It's more businesslike and going into it with maybe not raised expectations but just the hope that on the one-off day, given what they did to Arsenal over the semi-final, they have a reasonable chance.”

• Andy Jones [04:26]:
  “Liverpool shouldn't need to pick themselves up for the Cup Final… there are players who weren't involved last season who'll be wanting to be part of a trophy lift.”

• Chris Woff [24:33]:
  “Winning this trophy would give him so much goodwill and confirm how good a head coach he really is.”

• Andy Jones [26:32]:
  “It would be a massive boost for him to do that.”

This comprehensive preview provides listeners with an in-depth understanding of the factors at play as Liverpool and Newcastle United prepare to clash in the Carabao Cup Final. From tactical nuances and player availability to managerial aspirations and historical contexts, The Athletic FC Podcast ensures fans are well-equipped to anticipate the excitement at Wembley.