Ekitike Shines, Carrick Keeps Winning & Man City Drop Points Again

Summary

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The Rest Is Football

Episode Title: Ekitike Shines, Carrick Keeps Winning & Man City Drop Points Again
Date: February 2, 2026
Hosts: Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, Micah Richards

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Overview

In this lively episode, Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, and Micah Richards break down a dramatic Premier League weekend with key focus on Ekitike’s breakout performance for Liverpool, Michael Carrick’s strong start at Manchester United, and Manchester City’s faltering title chase. As always, the trio delivers honest opinions, tactical insights, and plenty of banter, addressing transfer intrigue, in-match drama, and ongoing managerial challenges.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Ekitike's Star Turn for Liverpool (05:02 – 12:29)

• Newcastle v Liverpool Review:

  • Newcastle’s inconsistent season continues; strong first-half performance undone by Liverpool’s quality.
  • Ekitike’s second goal – old-school toe-poke finish reminiscent of Romario – labeled "world class" by Alan Shearer.
  • Alan Shearer (07:09): "His second goal was world class. The way he went down the left and then toe poked with his right foot, Romario-like. Don’t see many toe-pokes anymore, but his was brilliant."
  • Newcastle rued missing out on signing Ekitike; Shearer reflects on what could have been if he’d chosen Tyneside.
  • Ekitike’s on-pitch partnership with Wirtz praised; struck as ‘intuitive’ and similar to iconic striker duos (09:03).

• Is Ekitike World Class Yet?

  • Micah Richards (08:07): "Are we talking about someone now who could be the next on the world class list alongside Kane, Haaland, Mbappe?"
  • All agree it's too early for such comparisons but his potential is undeniable; Gary emphasizes need for 20+ goal seasons to reach that bracket (11:22).

• Liverpool’s Frontline Dilemma:

  • With Isak out and other talents on the bench, question raised about who leads the line once everyone is fit.
  • Discussion of Fernando Torres comparisons; hosts see some similarities but not a direct match (12:29).

• Wirtz’s Influence:

  • Gradually acclimatizing to the Premier League; creative risk-taking lauded, despite higher turnovers (13:36).
  • Micah Richards (14:13): "Sometimes he gives away the ball, but when you play number 10, you give it away because you’re trying to be creative. I’m absolutely buzzing to see him do well. I just wish it was a little bit sooner."

• Human Moment:

  • Tribute to Konate, who scored just days after his father’s passing. Praised for resilience; touching pitchside support by teammates (15:34–16:50).

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2. Chelsea’s Wild Win and Rosenior’s Impact (16:50 – 22:14)

• Chelsea’s Comeback vs West Ham:

  • Example of the "game of two halves"; Rosenior’s first-half team selection panned, his in-game changes lauded.
  • Substitutions (Pedro, Cucurella) swing the match; tactical bravery earns widespread credit.

• Tactical Praise for Rosenior:

  • Micah Richards (19:43): "Say what you want about tactics or whatever, tactically he got it right. All his subs made an impact."
  • Rosenior’s presence and youthful energy noted as well-suited to Chelsea’s young side.
  • Debate on how English coaches are perceived versus foreign appointments; importance of giving local talent a chance (19:43–21:40).

Notable Stat:

• Rosenior becomes only the fourth English manager to win his first three Premier League games in charge (22:16).

• Chelsea’s Lineup Flexibility:

  • Palmer, Enzo Fernandez, and Gittens among several young attacking options; debate about best use of Palmer (central vs right wing) (24:47–26:13).
  • Injury updates: Lavia still awaiting his first full 90 minutes (26:13–26:23).

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3. Relegation Fight, West Ham’s Hope & Bowen’s Brilliance (26:24 – 28:01)

• West Ham’s First-Half Dominance:
  • Continued frustration but Bowen praised as a key to survival — among top Premier League goal-involvers away from home since 2023/24.

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4. Arsenal’s Dominance & The Title Race (28:01 – 35:08)

• Arsenal’s 4-0 Rout at Leeds:

  • Restores confidence after recent slip; powerful, "statement" performance.
  • Fixture run analyzed: Six of next seven versus non-top-six opposition (29:41).
  • Depth praised: Gyokerez, Jesus, and Havertz all among scorers; questions whether Arsenal can "break low blocks" still linger.

• Breaking Low Defensive Blocks:

  • Alan Shearer (33:28): "Find a way. Find someone who can make that killer pass. A forward who’ll make the brilliant run. It’s not a new thing — it’s just more highlighted now."
  • Micah and Shearer agree player rotation, intelligent movement, and persistence are keys.

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5. Man City’s Problems Intensify & Tottenham’s Second Half Revival (37:04 – 44:01)

• Man City Throw Away Another Lead:

  • At Spurs, City surrender 2-0 halftime advantage; defensive lapses, loss of in-game control emphasized.
  • Micah Richards (39:40): "Man City should have been 3, 4, 5 nil up in that first half, but they're just not killing teams off. It's a worry."
  • Criticism of lack of defensive communication, fullback depth, and general vulnerability to pace.

• Tottenham’s Tactical Simplicity:

  • Switch to 4-4-2, high energy, direct play — not tactical genius, just renewed urgency.
  • Noted that City have now failed to register a shot on target in the second half of three consecutive games (42:15–42:36).
  • Hosts skeptical City can now "go on a run" comparable to previous title-winning seasons.

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6. Villa and Arsenal’s Quadruple Hopes (44:01 – 48:58)

• Villa drop points; Arsenal’s run continues.
• Debate if Arsenal are "suited to the Premier League" (45:45) or more to Champions League ("good defense, not always scoring freely").
• Quadruple talk softly dismissed as premature.

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7. Goal of the Weekend & VAR Drama (48:58 – 51:41)

• Dominic Solanke’s scorpion goal lauded as "sensational" and intentional (49:21).
• VAR Controversy:
  • Disallowed Villa goal due to questionable “out of play” decision — hosts flag lack of conclusive evidence (50:16–51:08).

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8. Manchester United’s Renaissance under Michael Carrick (51:41 – End)

• Carrick’s Early Impact:

  • United win third straight; tactical improvements highlighted, especially playing people in proper positions.
  • Gary Lineker (53:48): "I think the sensible thing would be to see how it goes until the end of the season. But he’s done everything right so far."
  • Midfield blend with Mainoo, Casemiro, and Fernandes working well.
  • Carrick’s managerial profile compared favorably with Solskjaer; praised for calmness and clarity.

• Bruno & Mainoo in Spotlight:

  • Bruno’s stats (5 goals, 12 assists) flagged; potential Player of the Year contender.
  • Mainoo’s composure under pressure and development since returning from injury commended.

• Man United’s Prospects:

  • Likely not ready for a title bid, but Champions League qualification now realistic.
  • Gary Lineker (59:33): "The top six, I think, will remain the top six. It’s just whether anyone can chase down Arsenal — that’s the most interesting thing left for the season."

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Alan Shearer (07:09) — on Ekitike:
  “His second goal was world class. You don’t see many toe-pokes now but his was brilliant, a brilliant finish.”

• Micah Richards (08:07) — on Ekitike’s potential:
  “Are we talking about someone now who could be the next on the world class list alongside Kane, Haaland, Mbappe?”

• Gary Lineker (11:22) — on stepping up:
  “To be considered one of the best strikers, you need to score 20 plus a season, season after season. There’s a way to go.”

• Micah Richards (19:43) — on Rosenior:
  “Say what you want about tactics… Tactically he got it right. All his subs made an impact.”

• Alan Shearer (33:28) — on ‘the low block’:
  “Find a way. Find a pass. Find a forward who’s good enough to make that forward run… that’s how you do it. Find a way.”

• Micah Richards (39:40) — on Man City’s malaise:
  “Man City should have been 3, 4, 5 nil up in that first half, but they're just not killing teams off... it's a worry.”

• Gary Lineker (53:48) — on Michael Carrick:
  “He’s clearly a very cerebral guy. The way he played the game… most of the great managers are former holding midfielders.”

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• [05:02] – Liverpool vs Newcastle, Ekitike and Wirtz analysis
• [11:22] – The “20-goal” benchmark for elite strikers
• [16:50] – Chelsea’s wild comeback; Rosenior’s tactical tweaks
• [22:14] – Rosenior’s historic start as Chelsea manager
• [24:47] – Chelsea’s squad depth and Palmer debate
• [28:01] – Leeds 0-4 Arsenal, Arsenal’s title credentials
• [33:28] – Breaking down the “low block”
• [37:04] – Spurs 2-2 Man City, City’s defensive woes
• [44:01] – Arsenal’s fixture run and quadruple hopes
• [48:58] – Solanke’s scorpion kick, VAR controversy
• [51:41] – Carrick’s Man United turnaround

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Final Take

This edition of The Rest Is Football packed insight, stats, tactical assessment, and honest reflection. Ekitike’s rise, Carrick’s new manager bounce, and City’s woes dominate the conversation, all delivered with the hosts’ characteristic humor and ex-player candor.
Fans are left to ponder: Can Arsenal be caught? Is Ekitike a future Ballon d’Or contender? And can Carrick revive United’s former glory?

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Transcript

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[Gary Lineker]

Coming up on today's show, are we.

[Micah Richards]

Talking about someone now who could be the next one on the list to be world class alongside of Kane Haaland Mbappe, that sort of level?

[Gary Lineker]

Do you think Isak plays wide once he gets back fit and strong, or do they cash in?

[Micah Richards]

I don't care what anyone says. Say what you want about tactics of Warner. Tactically, he got it right. Yeah, like it hurt me today watching Man City. It hurt me to the core.

[Gary Lineker]

Oh, hang on a minute. What's going on behind you?

[Micah Richards]

What's going on there?

[Gary Lineker]

Micah, did you reminisce there to Mario Balotelli coming around your house? Hello, and welcome to the Rest is football with Alan Shearer, Micah Richards and me, Gary Lineker. Right, let me explain this. We're recording this part of the episode at midday on Sunday before the other games. We'll jump on for the second half and discuss those a bit later. The reason for that is probably because Alan is now in Portugal and it could be a long day for him, so we're not sure. We'll see him later. Alan, first you need to explain why have you got gold horns growing out of your head?

[Alan Shearer]

It's the only thing I've got growing out of my head in years, guys, so that doesn't matter. Yeah, I can just. I'm sat in the wrong place, you know? Yeah, so I'm in Portugal. Yeah, we got little. We got a little Pro Am happening this week, golf. So I'm hoping my mate Pete can pull out all the stops and bring his A game again, unlike last time.

[Gary Lineker]

And when he doesn't, you'll blame him.

[Alan Shearer]

If we don't win, it's his fault, as you know. So, yeah, I'm here for. Here for a few days and, yeah, see what happens. But later on, I'm not sure where I'll be or what I'll be doing. But I am having a drink this afternoon, so thanks for covering for me later on.

[Micah Richards]

Are you and Pete sharing beds again?

[Alan Shearer]

No, no, no, no, no. Pete said. Pete's got his own bed.

[Gary Lineker]

Oh, for Pete's sake. Where are you? M? You're working today, aren't you?

[Micah Richards]

Yes, I'm just in London, about to head to work in about 45.

[Gary Lineker]

When you say to work, where are you going?

[Micah Richards]

Super Sunday.

[Gary Lineker]

Super Sunday, yeah.

[Micah Richards]

Super Sunday for Sky.

[Gary Lineker]

It's not real work, is it? It's not exactly a coal mine, is it?

[Alan Shearer]

It's not real work. It's definitely not real work, lads.

[Gary Lineker]

It's not.

[Micah Richards]

It's enjoyment. Let's call it enjoyment.

[Gary Lineker]

You know I went to watch a game. Yeah, I went to. I went to qpr, went to Loftus Road.

[Micah Richards]

Why?

[Gary Lineker]

To watch qpr. Coventry.

[Alan Shearer]

What's happening with Coventry? What's happening with.

[Gary Lineker]

A friend of mine, Jos Corin invited me and I went with my friend jd. A bit of lunch before and then watch. Watch the game. It's. It's quite close. QPR1 as well. Played quite well. Commentary were poor. Going through a bit of a sticky spell like most teams do at some point. But it, it was, it was a giggle, it was fun and everybody. I sat in the crowd as well, so it's quite. And everyone was lovely.

[Micah Richards]

I did when I played there.

[Gary Lineker]

I got a lot of that.

[Alan Shearer]

I feel sorry for the two blocks sat behind you then. They had a great view of those lugs.

[Gary Lineker]

That's Irishmal. That's not allowed these days. I tell you what though, every walking to the ground, you're going with all the supporters and every single one of them are going, what are you coming to watch this for? It's terrible. It's going to be terrible fans. The pessimism was. But it was really good atmosphere at the end. It was a lot of fun. This episode is powered by Fuse Energy. Winter is all about energy. Switching on Christmas lights, warming your home for a cozy night in, keeping the TV on for all the festive fixtures.

[Alan Shearer]

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[Alan Shearer]

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[Gary Lineker]

For more information about land referrals and energy powering the full festive fixture list, head to landfuseenergy. Dot com. Right. Let's talk about the first bite delivered by Ubereats. And Well I think the man with the most bite yesterday was Zeker tk wasn't he? As Liverpool played that brilliant game against your team Newcastle. Yeah.

[Alan Shearer]

A bit like Jekyll and I Newcastle. You just don't know what to expect from them. And he changed it again which is. Is totally fine obviously. And because they went with three at the back in Paris on. On Wednesday in the Champions League. Went back to a back four yesterday. I don't know whether they had injuries or not because Bottom was on the bench. And I heard him say afterwards that he couldn't have played anyway. But yeah. Changed personnel around again. And I thought the game plan worked really well for about 35 or 40 minutes because we looked dange counterattack. Liverpool I thought looked poor defensively as they have done for a while. And Newcastle punished them for that ultimately with a very very good goal from Anthony Gordon. His first in nearly 13 months in open play for Newcastle. Yeah. And then after that I was. I mean the. The brilliance of. Of Ekatike and Wirtz I thought. Particularly Ekatike. I mean it hurts even more. Because Newcastle were in for him obviously as you know in the summer. But he chose to go to Liverpool which I get. And that's fine. But he was the difference. His second goal was world class. The way a good old fashioned like tour poke wasn't it? When he. He went down the left and then tore poked with the. With his right foot into the Romario like. Don't see many Torporks around nowadays do you? Don't see them around that often. But his was a brilliant. A brilliant finish. But then I was thinking okay second half we can go at them again. But they never really. Never really got their second half. And the best team won. Liverpool were the best team by a mile in the second half and deserved to take the three points. And I think. I don't know it sort of sums up where Newcastle are that the manager chooses to leave three forwards basically on the bench. He left Visser on the bench. Left Valtamari on the bench. Asula was on the bench. I don't know what's 135140 million quids worth of talent. And you go into it with a guy who hasn't scored for nearly 30 months in open play. So tells you where Newcastle are without forwards at the minute.

[Gary Lineker]

Did it make you feel a bit like oh we should. Oh if only we'd have had Ek. I mean he does look, we'll discuss him now. He does look the real deal, doesn't he?

[Alan Shearer]

What are you laughing at M. I can just see your shoulders giggling away there. What's up with you?

[Micah Richards]

No, I think you summed it up perfectly in terms of Newcastle and. And. And Liverpool. Newcastle. I thought there was electric. A joy to watch. And then Gaza's brought it around to Ek and. And there was rumors that he was going to Newcastle wouldn't. They didn't quite happen. And then he goes to Liverpool and puts in a performance like that and guys just said the real deal. Are we talking about someone now who could be the next one on the list to be world class alongside of Kane, Haaland, Mbappe. That sort of level.

[Alan Shearer]

Oh well you're getting a bit excited there aren't.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah.

[Alan Shearer]

I mean he's a really really talented player. There's no doubt about it. But it's a bit early to see he's. He could be in that bracket. I mean those are incredible players but talent wise fabulous. Yeah. Newcastle I guess it hurt a bit more because without doubt they were in for him before all the Isaac's situation was. Was there. You know. So yeah he's a. He's a great talent. His second goal was fantastic. I mean it was the way Liverpool broke and then particularly the way he won V1 with Malik Chow and then he didn't have. He didn't have time to hit it with his left foot because if he had a swung it with his left then the defender would have got him. So the only thing he could do was do that little tour port what he did and it was a. It was a world class finish and he was the difference him and. Him and Wirtz I thought and the understanding. We spoke to Ekatike after the game because I did it with PLP and I asked him about is it you know the partnership with Wirtz. Is it one of those where you've worked at it or is the one. Is it just sort of happen? Because I think the best ones are the ones that just click and happen and that's what he sort of said. You know. And he was full of praise for him to play with him and. And he was saying when he makes a runny noise he's going to pass to him and what have you. So there seems to be a. A really good understanding happening between those two.

[Gary Lineker]

I think with. When you start talking about him with the likes of Haaland and Mbappe etc I think it's. It's a bit early for that. It's too early for that. But potential is there. He's got a lot of game, you know. Yeah, it's not just about scoring the goals. He'll drop deep, he can run at players, he's very, very quick, which is also a big advantage. He's. He's a real threat in the air as well and I like his movement in, in the box. He looks to try and get behind people. He's got all that it takes now. I think obviously there are always questions. You need a bit of luck injury wise you need to go through. We need to see him when he has a bad run and how mentally strong he is. All that sort of stuff that will define how good he becomes, I think. But all the tools are. He's got all the tools.

[Alan Shearer]

He missed the easiest one, didn't he? Missed the. For his hat trick. I mean he had one in the first half.

[Gary Lineker]

He got in. In his feet.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, he had that little dink in the first half where Nick Pope stood up. But then when he went through and sort of mugged Dan Byrne in the second half, 1v1 and he just couldn't sort it out. But yeah, he's a real talent without doubt.

[Gary Lineker]

Class.

[Micah Richards]

No, the reason I asked is just you two strikers and you know, you look at different and I agree with you. I don't think he's there yet but when Gaz is talking about all his attributes and he's going to be at Liverpool who are always going to create chances, he's going to do well in European football because Liverpool always do in the Champions League. And I just feel when we talk about Mbappe, he started on the left, now he's playing more central. Kane took a little while going on loan for a couple of years, but then Ekatiki's coming to the Premier League and hit the ground running. So if this is him at the start with the teams he's going to be playing him. Yeah, he definitely could be.

[Gary Lineker]

That's 10 Premier League goals obviously needs to be even considered one of the best strikes. You need to be 20 plus seasoning season out. There's a way to go. Obviously there are other issues with Liverpool. He sacks out for quite a while but when he comes back it's also a position he wants to play. They've spent 120 odd million. I mean it's. It will be a nice problem to have but also it could be prove a little bit difficult. What do you think he'll do? Do you think Isac plays wide now or do you think that Ikatike does. Does he rotate once he gets back fit and strong or do they cash in?

[Alan Shearer]

Well, he's, he's only getting better. So it depends how long Isak's going to be out. I mean if he, if he continues in this form and on this rise, then he'll. He'll be the number one. I mean he wasn't cheap. I don't know what he was but was he 75, 80 million, something like that? So it's, it's not as if he was a 10 or 15 million pound gamble or punt. So if he continues on the rise then try and get him out the team. You know, if he does, then it'll be him and whoever fits in with him.

[Gary Lineker]

What about the comparisons with Fernando Torres that I think. Because a lot of people suddenly have been making. I think Steven Gerrard mentioned it, which probably was the catalyst for everyone having a view on that. I don't see that necessarily myself seeing some aspects of it. They've had a decent few strikers over the years. You know, Owen Swaring, Fowler, Rush. Going back to my day was great storage.

[Micah Richards]

Let's not forget Sturgeon.

[Gary Lineker]

Yes, yeah, storage. And there'll be one or two more that we've. We've perhaps forgotten but yeah, it's. It'll be interesting to see what slot does when everyone's fit. As interesting as it was probably at the start of the season when they. They're struggling.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, I guess. I mean on a bigger picture for Liverpool, the win was hugely important for them. 31st, 35 minutes. I thought they really struggled. I thought Newcastle played the game really well in terms of hitting them on the counter attack. I wouldn't, I'm not convinced at the back yet but they've still got a lot of work to do defensively. But Mike is right. I think they're always going to create and always going to score.

[Gary Lineker]

You mentioned Wirtz there. I think he's gradually getting into his game, isn't it? And producing the sort of brilliance that we saw so often at Leverkusen. Micah. I mean he is a player who gives the ball away a bit but often the best players are the ones that give the ball away a bit because they try things. And speaking as a not from the strikers union, Alan, you don't mind that players that want to thread little balls through even if they don't work sometimes that's what produces goals. And then you look at statistics and you go we give it away quite a bit but they're the players generally that are the most creative too.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, it's been so frustrating for me because I give it the big one at the start of the season, didn't it? It's going to be player of the year. You know, he's going to score so many goals, so many assists, create. And it's took him a little bit longer than I thought or maybe too long for the quality that he has. But now you've seen it, he's a top player. And I know people come in and be like, well can he do it in the Premier League? It's not that I watched a lot of Champions League football because obviously I cover it and al you do too. So you would have seen then when he plays for the national team Germany and he's doing the exact same thing. It was only a matter of time before he got the grasp what the Premier League needed. And then obviously there was the. The managers changed the team and the system. Sometimes out on the left it was a little bit deeper. Now he's in the number 10 and he's thriving. But what's helped him, like you guys said is Ekitike his movement, yeah E never stands still. He's sometimes on the left, he comes deep, he goes in behind like you mentioned before. So he's always got a pass or he' always thinking in his head and sometimes Verts will just lend it. He'll just lend it and wait for the right moment. And yes, sometimes he does give away the ball but when you're playing that number 10 role, you give the way a ball because you're trying to be creative. So I'm absolutely buzzing to see him do well. I just wish it was a little bit sooner.

[Gary Lineker]

Yes, six goals in his last 10 games in all competitions. Now even, even someone like Kirk has look it's starting to look more comfortable. Sometimes it does take players a while to settle in and they, they are looking better. Liverpool by and large still look a little bit vulnerable I think to the. The counter attack as well. Lovely moment at the end of the game, wasn't it? With Konate's goal just nine days after his. His father sadly passed away. So I mean it was good to get him on the pitch and also I thought he played well and contributed with that goal. Nice touch. And Alison Alice he noticed he ran the length of the pitch to whole pitch to congratulate him.

[Alan Shearer]

I thought really nice Arne Slot had said that he offered him and said to him take more time but cannot said no, I want to play. And I guess, I guess the Pitch is the best place to be, you know, when you're going through something that might give you a little bit of. A little bit of respite in terms of trying to or forgetting about it because you have to concentrate so much of what you're doing on the pitch. But yeah, he got his goal and I'm sure his old man would have been looking down on him, very proud of him. And he played really, really well, actually.

[Gary Lineker]

That was the first bike delivered by Ubereats Chelsea. That was a game, wasn't it? I mean, talk about. I mean, that old adage about a game of two halves, but it really was. He took a gamble, Rosenha took a gambling, making about seven changes, I think it was, and didn't work at all in the first half. But he was dynamic with his changes. He made them and they were like a totally different team on in the second half.

[Micah Richards]

You know what. But just before you go so hard, because was they really poor because of what West Ham did? You know, the narrative is Chelsea were poor in the first half and then they made the changes and there was excellent in the second half. But also West Ham were brilliant in that first half too.

[Gary Lineker]

Bit of both, I would say.

[Alan Shearer]

I was going to say something along the lines of, you know, Joao Pedro in midweek was brilliant and scored and then you're left out. It's like for. For a center forward, you think, I mean, come on, he's not. It's not as if he's been a regular and then he does really well and then you're left out. But then obviously he realized he'd made a huge mistake and in making the changes and had to have to change it again. And he was able to spot that and do that. And then Pedro comes on and gets a goal, gets an assist and just helped turn it around for. For Chelsea. But it was a. It was a brilliant game. I mean, West Ham were superb first half and they were. They were really dangerous, particularly down the right hand side, which is why Garnacho got took off at half time, because he couldn't cope with Juan Basaka going down that. Going down the right hand side. But it was. That was a big, big game for Chelsea and a right kick in the nuts for West Ham.

[Gary Lineker]

That was, yeah, a massively important result for him because obviously there was a lot of disgruntled fans at half time in Chelsea. Does he. It's one of those, isn't it, that he. You're probably quite critical of him for doing what he did, because it didn't work. But then you've also got to give him a lot of praise for changing it and is it. But if it. If he hadn't got the. Perhaps the. The winner in the end, people would have been critical and said, you've thrown it away. But it's all going very well for him at the moment.

[Micah Richards]

No, I would have walked out there like I was the man. Yeah, you bring on a set, you bring on the center off. He gets the assist for Pedro. Okay, so that's. That's goal number one. And then who scored the second goal? It was Cucarella. He brought some Cucarella for Hato at left back diving.

[Gary Lineker]

Eda bravely going in at the feet was a crack of that.

[Micah Richards]

And then he just goes in again. And then to finish it off, you've got J. Pedro who creates the. No, that. That is genius. I. I don't care what anyone says. Say what you want about tactics of water. Tactically he got it right because all his subs made impact.

[Gary Lineker]

I think he's come in and he's been really impressive. If this. You know what we're like. We know what we're like with our own. Right, so you're going, oh, is he a big. Is he coming in being a bit too big? You know, big freeze boots and saying some strange things and all this sort of stuff. If this was a young French manager coming in, we'd be going, cool. Blimey's got something about him, this lad. We would. That's how we. We think a little bit that way. I think he's got a presence and I think it's really important with the. The team he's got and the fact that he's a relatively young side, Very, very young side really. So perhaps needs a young man to understand.

[Micah Richards]

I know what you mean, guys, but it's only because. Yeah. So when Mourinho came, yeah. To Premier League, he'd won the European cup, you know what I mean?

[Gary Lineker]

Well, I wasn't comparing him with Marina. No, I'm talking about, you know, someone like maybe Deserbi who comes in this top of my head, someone.

[Micah Richards]

I understand what you're trying to mean, but I have respect for all, all managers, no matter what they do like. And because a lot, a lot of people in the Premier League who watch the Premier League might not watch Europa League or the. Not me Bob. Or Champions League or whatnot. So when young players or managers come over, I'm just like, give them a chance. Give him a chance. And Rocinha is a Good manager. And I said this way back when, when he was at Hull. It's just the things that I was saying before.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, but we know that you're the oracle.

[Micah Richards]

Micah.

[Gary Lineker]

The world needs to listen more to Micah Richards, the oracle, because he knows he should. But let me use one more example. Herzler, unbelievably young manager, comes in and we all go, oh, he must be something really special. You know, I need some. Very well. But it's just that thing about when an English lad comes in and he says a few things that we all think, oh, blimey's, a bit cocky and he wants a bit getting above his station and all that kind of stuff.

[Micah Richards]

No, no, no. But that's different though, isn't it, guys? Because Herzler went to Brighton and they have a structure in place with the ideas of a new, fresh manager coming over. This is Chelsea Football Club. Al says every week, what is it being brought in to. To win things. So that's the only reason. And everything he says get scrutinized. That's the only reason. We talking more about Rossini, but we know he's a good manager and I just thought yesterday it was. It was. It was brilliant to see his tactical changes come into play.

[Alan Shearer]

He's had a really, really good start, hasn't he?

[Gary Lineker]

Well, he's. He's only the fourth English manager, while we're on that subject, to win his first three Premier League games in charge. I tell you what, if. If you can get these three. No, I tell you, if you get one.

[Alan Shearer]

So what is it again?

[Gary Lineker]

The first to win their first three Premier League games in charge.

[Micah Richards]

It was on the screen yesterday. It was on the screen yesterday while the game was on. And you know when you look at you like. Yeah, I was sort of half asleep thinking I should know that, because that's definitely going to come in a quiz.

[Gary Lineker]

I mean, there's one that you'd probably have a guess. English managers that have done pretty well over the period.

[Micah Richards]

Oh, it's. What's it. It's the Leicester. Leicester manager, Shakespear.

[Gary Lineker]

Craig Shakespeare, sadly passed away a year or two ago.

[Micah Richards]

He's in. I saw that.

[Gary Lineker]

Yes, he was one of them. And there were two. There were two others that have done it.

[Micah Richards]

One from way back when. I can't remember the day.

[Gary Lineker]

1992. One of them. 1992, August, start of the season. 1992 Premier.

[Alan Shearer]

That was the first when the Premier League started.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, it was for a team like a Coventry or someone like that. It was some who was a commentary manager back then. Bobby.

[Gary Lineker]

Bobby. And the other one was. Well, let's put it this way, if someone does lose the job, we'll give it to them for the rest of the season in 2001. But yeah, I think, I mean you couldn't get a more encouraging start and absolutely, I think essential that he got a start like that because. Yeah, yeah, you know, it gives you a platform, doesn't it? It gives, it gives you a little bit of like, like leeway, if you like.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah. And also for him, I guess, because he's how young he is and hasn't. I know he's been at Hull and Strasbourg and what have you, but hasn't managed in it at that higher level yet. So the quicker he got the wins behind him then it was going to be the better it is for, for him and in front of his. You always want to make an impression in players and the first time you, although you walk into the dressing room and you want to do this and say this, so whatever he's saying then you can back it up and with the results then it gives you more power as a coach or as a manager, doesn't it?

[Micah Richards]

What do you think about his formation though? Because you said at the start he made seven changes. So someone like Enzo Fernandez, I think he's got the highest XG of all Premier League midfielders.

[Gary Lineker]

Yes, he has, but he's playing a.

[Micah Richards]

Little bit deeper and Cole Palmer's playing in the number 10. Would you move Cole Palmer to the right and play Enzo a little bit bit higher or would you stick with what you have now? Oh, don't forget Estebal. But I think he's had to go back to Brazil. Neto as well. Gittens played the other day. Where do you think he fits in?

[Alan Shearer]

You got some options, haven't they?

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, they have.

[Alan Shearer]

It's like unbelievable, aren't they? Yeah, it's like you have to get Cole Palmer in that team. Obviously it's. There's no doubt that he. It's, it's. For me it's him and 10 others.

[Micah Richards]

But would you play from the, from the right where he was so successful or would you play him centrally in a number 10?

[Gary Lineker]

Depends how you want to play, isn't it? As well. I mean I. Palmer can play in either of those roles quite comfortably. I mean when he played in the club World Cup Final, he was sensational on that right hand side, wasn't he? Caused psg, all sorts of problems. He plays with a real intelligence and the way floats around the ground. It's probably really good for Rosenya to have the options to. To do either. I don't think you go right this. He's going to play in the 10 for a long period of time. Now then football's like it, you just suddenly go, actually maybe for this game he'd be better off on that side and, and we can push Fernandez a little bit further forward. But they're strong in those two, Caicedo and Fernandez in there, aren't they?

[Alan Shearer]

They're tough. They're good players. Really good players.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah. Don't forget they've still got Lavia to come back as well. Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

I saw something like he's not played 90 minutes football something since he's been at Chelsea.

[Micah Richards]

I know it's right.

[Alan Shearer]

Right.

[Gary Lineker]

Wow. Which is mad. Up to West Ham. I think they've shown enough in recent weeks to have give you some sort of encouragement as a hammer. I mean, it would have been a big blow losing that because they were so good in the first half. If they do stay up, it'll probably largely be down to Jared Bowen. I mean, I know it was slightly fortuitous goal yesterday, but it was still a very good ball in. Since the start actually of 20, 23, 24, only Mo Salah, Erling Harland and Ollie Watkins have been involved in more Premier League goals away from home, which I always think is a good sign. A player that can score away from home, not just at home. He's got 18 and 11 assists. If they do go down though, I think there'll be quite a few clubs in for him.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, that was also a big result by the way, for Forest and Leeds and palace with Chelsea Wind as well.

[Gary Lineker]

Oh, I bet when they're half time they were going, oh my God, we're in trouble here.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, absolutely. There's no doubt about that. Yeah, but yeah, he's, he's, he's, he's been there and carrying them for a while, hasn't he, Jerome?

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, he's, he's a quality player, but he's, he had a little bit of frustration with the fans, remember, earlier on in the season. Yeah, but he sort of put that behind him now and he carries this team, doesn't he? He really does in the, in the big moments.

[Gary Lineker]

He's got it.

[Micah Richards]

It's difficult. What, what are they five points adrift now, Gaz?

[Gary Lineker]

Five.

[Micah Richards]

See, because you always think Leeds are going to pick up points.

[Gary Lineker]

Now Forest, having said that, takes us on to Leeds, doesn't it? Oh, I've got my Notes here, actually in my notes just to remind me where we're going to go. And it says at the top here, leads for Arsenal nil. Harry, what's.

[Alan Shearer]

I mean, you guys.

[Gary Lineker]

Help me. But then the next line is ar. Back to winning ways. So, yeah, they were four nil down. They came back 154, didn't.

[Alan Shearer]

He's not singing his lead song today, is he, Micah?

[Gary Lineker]

He's singing his Arsenal song. That's his real team.

[Micah Richards]

They can't be singing the lead song when they got battered 4 nil at home.

[Gary Lineker]

Especially when it's against Arsenal.

[Micah Richards]

Oh, here we go. Here we. Here we go.

[Gary Lineker]

People starting to get, you know, Arsenal this and Arsenal that. But I mean, I don't quite know why. Just because, you know, they scored a few set pieces and another one yesterday, obviously with the own goal, just about their top scoring, so. But impressive away performance, very comfortable victory. I think they're going to take some stopping.

[Alan Shearer]

That was a big result for them yesterday after. After what happened last weekend and the noise and it's inevitable that, you know, you're going to get that because of. It's been that long and for Mikel and for so many of those players, that. That's going to happen. But I thought that was a great response yesterday. They looked really good, really powerful, really strong. Tough place to go because you know that crowd, even at 2 nil, the crowd were going crazy at Leeds, wouldn't they? And if that. If Leeds had got the next goal and you're thinking, oh, what's going to happen? But they just got the third and the fourth and the subs. They brought on Arsenal, I mean, they bring Jesus on. Is it Odegaard to bring on Martinelli?

[Gary Lineker]

They. Is it. I know. So strong.

[Alan Shearer]

Incredible. So they're, they're, they're really, really strong. That. I thought that was a big statement from Arsenal yesterday.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, I've got their run of fixtures as well. Six of the next seven games against teams that are not in the top six. So they go Sunderland at home, Brentford away. Tottenham away. Chelsea at home. That's the one in the top six. Brighton away. Everton at home. Wolves away. Bournemouth at home. So, I mean, if they continued that kind of form, they could. Could create a bit of space at the top. But we know in football, particularly in the Premier League, you can, you can lose against anybody, I guess.

[Micah Richards]

Of course you can. I keep saying it. It's going to come to that game in April. Arsenal have got to go to Man City. And if Arsenal beat Man City there, then that's when it's over. All these people saying well that was a. It was a statement win. Totally agree with Alan. But there's still so many games to go. If Man City win this this this afternoon against spurs it's back to four points and they keep it within that until they play each other and then there's a couple more games after they play. It's just. It's gonna be. Yeah, I think it's going right to the why I do.

[Alan Shearer]

What happens if City don't win tonight then Michael or later on? Well, yeah, they ain't got a good record there, have they?

[Micah Richards]

They've not got a good record there. Alan, you are totally right. I think, I think. I think Pep's lost eight times to spurs. The most of any team if my calculations are correct.

[Alan Shearer]

Someone's been doing their homework.

[Gary Lineker]

Glory, glory, Tottenham. There you go. Arsenal actually only goes. They've only got three more trips outside London now. Really the rest of the season in the Premier League. Brighton Wolves, Man City, the one you talked about. But if some. It obviously will depend on that game against City. But it'll only depend on that game against City. If there's a small gap.

[Micah Richards]

Correct.

[Gary Lineker]

It could be a large one by then and City need to find a little bit more consistency.

[Alan Shearer]

Don't forget Aston Villa.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, yeah, I think you're right. Everyone's forgetting Aston Villa but they're. They're a good side.

[Alan Shearer]

Couple of new sign ins as well.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah. But don't forget we're recording this before Villa play today.

[Micah Richards]

This.

[Gary Lineker]

This little bit here. We could. Everyone could be going. What do you mean? I just lost 5 nil. Great. I can't do any accents. Interesting going on up front for. For arsenal from having no. 1 score. None of their strikers score. I should say. Suddenly you've got Gyokerez getting a couple of goals in a couple of games. You've got. Jesus has come back and. And scored a few. Now Havertz is back playing a sudden. They've got options in that position and different options as well.

[Alan Shearer]

Yokerez went through yesterday again and missed a big chance. Didn't knock it past the defender again. I was thinking come on. But then to be fair to him, he did get his goal and finished that off really well. His use coming on his goal was brilliant. The way he sort of moved the ball backwards and forwards and bend it in was a great finish. So yeah, it looks as if it's. They're all. They're all coming back or being fit anyway it at the Right. Time for Arsenal.

[Micah Richards]

I do think they're going to Ellen Road, Leeds, try to play. Yeah, they go and they're open and they will attack you. Arsenal are going to have more difficult games, I would say, where teams do go in that low block. I don't. I don't. I think the result was massive for Arsenal's confidence, but I don't think it told us a lot about breaking down low blocks. You know, that's still to be. To be seen. And if it can do that, then, yeah, they're on the way.

[Gary Lineker]

What is the best way, do you think, to break down low blocks? Because it's not easy as a forward and I was.

[Alan Shearer]

It's been a big topic, hasn't it, over the last sort of week or 10 days or so. Is that. Well, maybe less goals because a team's sitting deep and having that low block. Find a way. Find someone who can make that killer pass. Find a forward who's going to make that brilliant run. When crosses come in, the best players do it. A low block isn't something that's just happened all of a sudden.

[Gary Lineker]

This season been here forever.

[Micah Richards]

Correct. Yeah.

[Alan Shearer]

People are highlighting it. Perhaps more, I guess, maybe social media or there's more programs. It's not. This low block hasn't been invented in 2026, has it?

[Micah Richards]

Exactly. No, you totally right.

[Alan Shearer]

Find a way. Find it. Find a pass. Find someone who's got that killer pass, find for someone who's good enough to make that forward run and then find a forward who's good enough to do all of those things. When balls come in, that's how you do it. Find a way.

[Micah Richards]

I think it's rotation. I think when you're isolated as a striker, you then need to come towards a ball and have a midfield runner going in there.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Micah Richards]

You've got Odegaard who drops deep, sometimes too deep for the liking of some Arsenal fans, but in terms of doing that, pull people out, move people around and play that killer ball and have that midfield, the running. Running into the box and then good delivery, of course.

[Gary Lineker]

And I used to quite enjoy playing against teams with a low block, which happened, you know, because you. You mean. Basically means you play in the final third so you don't have to keep chasing back to the bloody halfway, which was. Which was always boring. And, you know, you've. And it's a challenge to find those little spaces and just keep gambling, gambling on a run, gambling on where the cross will go, gambling on where the cross go. And eventually one might just come to you. And then, and then you bang it in.

[Alan Shearer]

Absolutely.

[Gary Lineker]

Quick question, Alan, before we let you go. Is the pro am starting tomorrow?

[Alan Shearer]

The pro am is starting on Tuesday. We have a practice round tomorrow.

[Gary Lineker]

So I was going to say go easy tonight. Don't ruin it for your pro. You know what, it's like a golf trip, right? Golf trip. Every time you go on a golf trip, which I don't, I don't. I can't play anymore. I used to play go on lots of golf trips and every time you get there and that you, you'd start the next day and you go, right, I'm going easy tonight. I'm not going to make that mistake again. I'm not gonna get pissed. I'm gonna just have a couple. Have a couple. And then there you are at 2 o' clock in the morning and then you, you play the next day and you go, why did I do that? Why did I do that?

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, well, I'm going with the intention of going this afternoon and getting pissed.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, but you're not playing tomorrow.

[Alan Shearer]

Well, let's see, it's a practice round tomorrow, so it doesn't matter.

[Micah Richards]

Practice, man.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, go. Well, I'll enjoy it.

[Micah Richards]

Cheers, guys.

[Alan Shearer]

Thank you. Thanks for covering me later on.

[Micah Richards]

Cheers.

[Gary Lineker]

No problem at all. Micro myself will be back. Oh, hang on a minute. What's going on behind you?

[Alan Shearer]

You got fireworks?

[Micah Richards]

How do you do?

[Alan Shearer]

How do you do that?

[Micah Richards]

Simple's doing it. One of the producers on this call is doing that. Because I've not touched a damn thing.

[Alan Shearer]

Do exactly what you did. Again, the same thing. Lean back and chuck your hands in the air.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah. Did you reminisce there to Mario Balotelli coming around your houseworks? He's not in the background, is he? Mario?

[Alan Shearer]

Is he there?

[Micah Richards]

Is he there?

[Gary Lineker]

Micah, I'll speak to you after you've had a long day's work, as you call it.

[Micah Richards]

Well, long days, excitement, yeah.

[Alan Shearer]

Sitting watching football.

[Gary Lineker]

Hard graft. We'll be back shortly. Shortly for you, but quite a long time for us if you get what I mean.

[Alan Shearer]

Okay.

[Gary Lineker]

Welcome back to the rest is football. Mike Richards and myself, Gary Ler. Now Alan's Lord knows where Alan is. Somewhere in Portugal, somewhere in a bar. Well, two more cracking games today. I watched Manchester United thrilling game there against Fulham. And then you know, the man Tottenham, man City game. I mean, it was unfathomable the way that turned in the second half. You were doing that one. You were there, Micah.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, I was there for sky, as I mentioned in the first half. There was a real weird atmosphere, guys, at the stadium. It was almost like, I don't know, disbelief or. It was. Everything was just flat. And I've said previously, I've been to spurs when they beat Man City on multiple occasions earlier on, and it was absolutely bouncing, of course, towards the start of the season. It always is. Yeah, but when you go there and everyone was just flat and that seeped on into the performance of the players as well. The first half was one of the worst halves I've seen from a football team at this level. There was no confidence, there was no rotations, the formation wasn't right. And then they managed to turn it around in the second half and I just. I couldn't believe what I've seen. Man City should have been 3, 4 or 5 nil up in that first half, but they're just not killing teams off, guys. And it's a worry.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, it's. I mean, it was remarkable, a turnaround, really. We saw it a few times last season, don't we? Mostly in the Champions League because actually that's the first time City have led by two plus goals at half time in a game and failed to win since April 2018. But. But it did happen once or twice, didn't it, in the Champions League last season. That definitely the last season and a half now look vulnerable to the counter attack. But I really couldn't see it coming in this game because, you know, they had absolute control. They were knocking it around. They probably should have scored one or two more goals, but you just couldn't see any way that Tottenham could come back. As you said, they were awful in the first half. They look bereft of any sort of confidence. I mean, I don't know what he said to them at half time. Obviously made a couple of tweaks, but it was. It was more. I think it's more the attitude that changed in the second half and this for. Somehow they started, you know, pushing forward, trying to get the ball wide, trying.

[Micah Richards]

To get it in.

[Gary Lineker]

Solanke has made a difference to them up there. There's no question about that. They've missed him this season. Will come to his Scorpion goal. That was a little bit special in a moment, but. Yeah, but looking at the title race now and Villa losing as well as City dropping two points, I mean, it's really, really hard to see beyond Arsenal.

[Micah Richards]

I think I'm still optimistic until next week. I think Liverpool are going to cause Man City problems if Man City turn up like they did in the second half. Liverpool with Ekatike and Wirt's movement will cause them all sorts of pressure. As soon as you raise the tempo in the game, it's. It's stark. I would love to say here spurs did something really tactical and the change, all they did is gone to an old school 4, 4, 2 and they had loads of energy. They started winning the ball higher up the pitch and it was almost like they've had a rollick in at half time. Go out there and give it 100%. And as soon as spurs did that guys Man City didn't know how to deal with it. I. They've talked about Man City so much, how good they are on the ball and even before that how well they press high up. But anytime, anytime someone moves the ball quickly against them. And I know Nunes, we've talked before. Nunes Matthes is not a fullback. Nico Riley thought he did really well in midfield and then he made a little mistake for the second goal in terms of not clearing his line. But every time someone runs at them with pace, it's like they don't know what they're doing. The second goal had five or six players in the box. Zero communication. Nico right on the first goal, I don't know, it's a bit of a. I feel like I'm ranting but it's for. For a team who have accomplished so much to be. Then get Mark Gain who I actually thought at times he played really well in the game. But decision making King from the back four is. Is not good enough. I've. I've talked about the midfield and the lack of protection. We know how Man City gonna play and you know you're going to be exposed to a counter attack. But today it wasn't really that. Although Solanke was making really good runs. It was more about communication on the goals. Who's gonna fill into what? How are you gonna push? Are we gonna jump together as a team? Are we gonna stop across all those things that are always talks about? That's what Man City are lacking at the moment.

[Gary Lineker]

I absolutely agree. And it's not entirely just defensive problems. It's the first times in nearly 20 years that they haven't had a shot in on target in three successive games. Not what in the second half of three consecutive games. Which is a mad statistic. That is.

[Micah Richards]

That's really man.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, it's hard. It's hard to understand entirely why obviously this is a very different team now than they had 18. Well two years ago when they completed the four in a row there's a lot of changes, a lot of new players. Obviously they've spent an absolute fortune on bringing a lot of talent in, but it's certainly not gelling at the moment. And when, when you consider the overall title race, I mean Arsenal really good win and even on their, their bad days, you, they generally grind out result. They don't concede many goals. They'll cause you problems from set pieces as we all know. But looking at it now with that lead and the way City is so inconsistent in terms of their performances, but their performance is in one game. They can play great in one half and then really badly in the other. So it's hard to see them suddenly changing that and winning every game like they've done in the past when they were, you know, when they were going head to head with Liverpool. It's really, you can't see that happening. Obviously Villa lost their game. I honestly, I, I'm not saying it's. It's done but I, I'd find it very, very hard to imagine that City could come back from this because a. You've got. Arsenal have got to drop quite a lot of points and City have got to win pretty much, well 90 of their games I would say.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah. In terms of that I wouldn't rule them out just yet. And this has got nothing to do with my ties. Like I said before, I think it's a Liverpool game because I always go to that game in, in April and I still stand by that Man City against Arsenal at home. And if that was three points in, in that game, if, if Man City draw against Liverpool and Arsenal were to win next week, that remind me of their fixture please guys.

[Gary Lineker]

Arsenal's next week Sunderland at home.

[Micah Richards]

I mean Sunderland are very good side performed very well this season. But if Man City were to draw and Arsenal were to win, that's when I'll concede that the title is over. Because like you said just getting the run together and then still Champions League and all these sort of things married in. I just, it's frustrating and you know, we talk about, oh, do you like Arsenal? Like it hurt me today watching Man City. It hurt me to the core thinking what is going on? Normally they have the answers and when a team used to attack them before guys, what they used to do really well is just starve the opposition of the ball. So even if you're not going to score goal, kill the game by keeping the ball. They're not even doing that anymore.

[Gary Lineker]

And also Micah, that incredible ability to, to immediately win the ball back when they lost it in really high areas with amazing energy. Yeah, they're way off. They're way off where they were. They really are. Arsenal have got a reasonable run of fixtures coming up and I when what stage do we talk about the quadruple?

[Micah Richards]

Well have got a Newcastle on Wednesday, haven't they? And then Arsenal Chelsea's on Tuesday I believe if, if they get to the final. I mean people have been saying it all year if you don't concede that many goals, I mean it's going to be, going to be difficult. I think Arsenal are very suited to Champions League definitely. I, I wouldn't say they were suited to the Premier League because there wasn't scoring loads of goals but they're keeping loads of clean sheets. Got a good defense events. But you think at this, you know, this time.

[Gary Lineker]

Can I ask you a question? Why don't you think they're suited to the Premier League?

[Micah Richards]

I mean that because of this, you know, watch the game. There's eye test isn't there? And then there's the stats and the big thing for, for me last last year was could Arsenal get a striker to take them to the next level? Or we, we looked at that position on left hand side in your left winger. Was Martinelli good in the enough they brought in E. Madwe has done really well. So you're thinking for Arsenal historically I would say you would need someone who scores 10 to 15 goals to, to get them over the line as, as long as they perform the same way. Good defensive structure, good in midfield, just someone to help out Saka. That was the, the narrative.

[Gary Lineker]

So I think they found that player. Well no, he's called own goal.

[Micah Richards]

So you look at Yokerez's and you're thinking oh, that doesn't look like it's enough to get them over the line. But other teams around them are not doing what they're supposed to be doing. Man City dropping points. Villa dropping points. Man United falling off. Although they've bounced back from, from earlier on in the season. And then Chelsea are having a new manager so all the things are falling in their favor. But now it looks like with Havertz coming back, J Zeus coming back and scoring, Yokerez getting a goal. Goal. They could just share out the goal. So now I would say yes, they are in pole position and I believe it now because of the, the strength and depth that they're having the squad. But with Yokerez's numbers coming in and being that guy, I wasn't convinced. But now with the team I am convinced.

[Gary Lineker]

What I would say about them also, which is, you know, it's almost a cliche really, is that despite the fact that they've not been free flowing probably the last month or two, and it is a difficult time of. To play, you've got that massive congestion of fixtures but, you know, they've still managed to grind out results. What happens when they start to flow? Oh, no, you know, that's, that's the thing, you know, if you're playing not at 100%, not at your best and you're still, you know, bossing everybody, I mean, it's a really good time for them, it really is. But as for City, I mean, it was very important for spurs, wasn't it, that second half performance and particularly for the manager, I think, because, you know, you could see at half time, it was almost embarrassing a little bit, you know, you thought, oh, this is, this is awful. And then, and then they came out before. We must talk about Solanke's goal though.

[Micah Richards]

Oh, I mean also that. What do you call that, guys?

[Gary Lineker]

Don't you.

[Micah Richards]

Is that what they call it?

[Gary Lineker]

I mean, I don't. Yeah. I mean, I don't. It's.

[Micah Richards]

The thing is though, he meant it though, you know, like sometimes times you just throw yourself in the air. But because he had to sort of adjust his body, I was thinking, he, he can't, he can't. I watched the replay and I was like, he's meant to do it.

[Gary Lineker]

What.

[Micah Richards]

What a goal. That was sensational.

[Gary Lineker]

Obviously there's always an element of fortune with that sort of thing because you knew. Certainly didn't deliberately lob Donna Ruma because he's a giant. But it was, it was an incredible goal. The first goal there was, you know, I think Pep Guardiola whined about, he said it should have been a foul on Mark Gay, but I think Solanke definitely touch on it and the goal was eventually given to him. And then as he followed through, probably did catch Gay. But it certainly wasn't one of those. That was a clear and obvious error.

[Micah Richards]

But I thought it was a. I did think it was a foul though, because when you get your body in there as a defender, you've sort of done a lot of the hard work. Not all the hard work, a lot of it to get your body in there and he, and he, he got his foot in there and then he's kicked in. He's. He's four and I think if that was outside the box or anyone on the pitch, if you did that get your body in, someone kicks you. I think you get a foul for that.

[Gary Lineker]

Well, yeah, there's always slightly different rules in the box than there are outside. There's why it be 15 penalties a game. But I think. Yeah, I think you're absolutely right. There was a little touch and I think if he hadn't have got that little touch on the ball then they, they may well have turned it over. Why? Why? On the subject of Var, I don't know whether you saw the, the disallowed goal for Aston Villa because it, it was said to be out of play. At the other end of the pitch, right by the corner, they broke away and, and scored. I mean really, I don't think there was a definitive angle that it looked like it might well have been out of play. But you. There was definitely no proof and I think for something like that particularly it was. It's so far away from actually where the ball went in the net. I thought that was really harsh on Villa personally.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, I did. Although Brentford defended really well in that game.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, 10 men.

[Micah Richards]

But there was a little, I think it was. Rico Henry had basically said he put his arms up like it gone out. So maybe that's why they went back and looked and looked at it. But I totally agree with you. Unless it's definitive, can you make that decision? Because that was a difference. Brentford down to 10 men. Don't know if you've seen it with Sharda getting sent off as well. Well, but yeah, I mean Villa will be kicking himself because you expect them to, to win that game.

[Gary Lineker]

A man United in the title race. I mean what a great start for Michael Carrick. A bit like Liam Rosenhe as well. They both started really well and it's, it's great for Michael Carrick. You can see, I mean to, for them to equalize and then, then come back and bag a winner. It was, I mean it's great. It's a real lift for that club the way, the way that he started, isn't it?

[Micah Richards]

You know what guys? So there's obviously I work with Roy, Roy Keane and I work with Gary Neville, respect them greatly and their opinion on it is you have to get the best person for the job in terms of what they've done in, in the past. So they just want an out and out winner. Tuchel's mentioned a lot if he goes and win the World cup with England, I mean that, that would be great for Man United. But I see a lot of people comparing him to Solskjaer when I Don't. I don't think it's the same Carrick. I think he's. He's got a little bit more than, than Solskjaer. He speaks well. He's very calm. He did all the things that we were crying out for in terms of the system, playing players in the right position and the 13 in 3. Not to forget his record before as well when he came in as interim. So I said it got a big conundrum with Carrick because how I see it, I feel he'll do really well. I think with Man United, the players coming back and the players that they have in the squad, they can definitely compete for Champions League. And that's why the start of the season I hired higher up even though it didn't work out with Amarin. So if he goes and gets him into Champions League football and then the playing well and then he's very good in the press. I don't understand why he wouldn't be given a chance. I think I would like to see him as a manager because as long as he keeps this. If he loses the next three on the bounce, I mean.

[Gary Lineker]

Well, of course, I think there's. I can't see there's any real point in doing anything before the end of the season. Season. You need to, you know, don't, like you win three or four games and then you go, right, like, you know, like everything with Soul Shot, you know, give him a long contract, all this sort of stuff. I think it'd be the sensible thing would be to see how it goes until the end of the season because he's. That's. That's what he's bought in front and then look at the situation. But he's done everything right so far. He's clearly a very cerebral guy. The way he played the game, you could see that very intelligent holding player. Most of the great managers of former footballers are holding players. So it's, it is a really, really good start and, and off obviously as well. Confidence plays a big part and as you quite rightly said, and we said it last week, that he's, he's no longer putting square holes in brown square square pegs in round holes. And yeah, I, you know, they have got some talent in that squad, you know, and the two signings, Konya and Mbumo, I think they've settled in very well. Well, Bruno's now playing a little bit further forward. He got himself a couple of assists and was talking actually earlier on. I don't know why, with the lads and Talking about who are the. Who are the front runners for Football of the Year. I mean, it's the 1st of February. It's a little bit early, but if Manchester United continue to go really well, and Bruno, I mean, he's two more assists today. That's five goals and 12 assists in the Premier League. Who else would you think? So, obviously, Haaland you. If. If he starts scoring again, which he will.

[Micah Richards]

Declan Rice.

[Gary Lineker]

Declan Rice, I was going to say as well. Gabrielle. Gabrielle at the base, fantastic defender. So there's no. There's no one obvious at the moment, but he's. He's a bloody good footballer. You know, Bruno Fernandez is top.

[Micah Richards]

Top. He's a.

[Alan Shearer]

Is a.

[Micah Richards]

Is a top player. The managers played him in the right position and he's shining. And even when United weren't doing great, he always stepped up with. With some thing. You know, I know we've talked about him being petulant with his, you know, swinging in the arms, and it's not, especially as a young player coming into the squad, you know, sometimes he makes a pass, he's made a mistake, and he's got his hands up and he's passionate and I get all that stuff. But what that does, what that does, guys, I agree. It brings attention to somebody else because he can get away with it because he's so good. That's what, you know, that is a.

[Gary Lineker]

Weakness, and I think it's one that he's. He recognizes himself. He's talked about it, hasn't he? But he's a good. The other one I want to talk about is Kobbie Mainoo. He's come back when we were all going. What. I mean, he was such a good footballer. I mean, he was arguably England's best player at the last tournament. Now he's back in the starting lineup. I thought he played very well again today. He'd have to be in the running, wouldn't it, for one of those, you know, pivot kind of players?

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, definitely. And it's just confidence as well. You know, what I like about this more than anything, Gaz, is there was a lot of pressure, pressure on him going back into the team.

[Gary Lineker]

So.

[Micah Richards]

Especially with what his brother put the T shirt free, Kobe and all that sort of stuff.

[Gary Lineker]

All eyes would be on him.

[Micah Richards]

Yes. So it's immense pressure going in that. And if he has a bad game, everyone could say, well, that's why you're not playing. So he had to, you know, just manage his game. And he's done it really well because he's a good player. And you know what, you have to give a shout out to Casemiro as well.

[Gary Lineker]

Absolutely, absolutely.

[Micah Richards]

Because there was times when he was in systems and he got exposed massively. But alongside Mainu to compliment his game. Bruno's always going to work hard, get back into position and I just think, yeah, he's. He's got the balance right of the team.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah. Eight goals in three games for Carrick. And you know, get Arsenal, Manchester City and, and Fulham. And the other interesting statistic about United is that they've won all seven of their Premier League games in which they've had less than 45 possession, which was also the case today. So by contrast, They've won just four of 17 league games when having 45% possession or more. So just shows you that, you know, possession is not always everything.

[Micah Richards]

Nope, it's not. But you know what? This was a potential banana skin because again, you know, the, the games that had won. Everyone's talking about, oh, let's see what they do at Fulham. They'll probably lose Fulham at home. I know it took a late goal from Sesko. Go really good finish. You mentioned the, the signings before, which.

[Gary Lineker]

Will also do him the world of good.

[Micah Richards]

Of course it will. And, and it's good. It's good to see because if you look at what Carrick was doing at Middlesbrough and I watched a lot of his teams and you know, you do your homework before when a new manager comes in and all that sort of thing. Carrick played really good football for Middlesbrough. The. The problem was he didn't get him up. So it wasn't about the football. The fans wasn't murmuring about the football. It was. Was. And he's brought that to. To United. The next step is now, but with.

[Gary Lineker]

Bet with much better players who can probably play that way.

[Micah Richards]

Correct. And. And as long as he can close up the back door a little bit, I. I think. I think he can do a good job. I really do.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah. Probably. Probably not likely title contenders. Well, I mean, yeah, no, I just. But they. I mean, Champions League would be a. A brilliant achievement considering where they finished last season.

[Micah Richards]

So what's the lead tape? So Arsenal, City, Villa, United, Chelsea and Liverpool. One of them will miss out. Yeah. With top five only. It's. It's difficult. It's. It's difficult. City and Arsenal, you know, probably expect Villa as well depend depending on fixtures and injuries. It was nice for them, for Tommy Abraham as well, who would have been.

[Gary Lineker]

Nice if he'd have been allowed that goal. Yeah.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, it's a race. Race for top five. I think it will be as well. That'll be interesting.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah. The top six, I think, will remain the top six. After that, you go Brentford, Fulham, Everton, Newcastle and Sunderland. So I think that. And that they might break away a little bit. So, yeah, it's intriguing. It's just whether anyone can chase down Arsenal, I think that's probably the most interesting thing left for the rest of this season. So we always like a bit of a title race. So we shall see. Okay, Micah, you've had a long day. You've had a long day. Get some rest and we'll call it a day.

[Micah Richards]

I'll try.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

Goodbye from me.

[Micah Richards]

And goodbye from me. Have a good week.