United’s Ongoing Mess, Brentford Buzzing & A Drab Affair At The Emirates

Summary

The Rest Is Football: United’s Ongoing Mess, Brentford Buzzing & A Drab Affair At The Emirates

Date: January 9, 2026
Hosts: Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, Micah Richards

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Episode Overview

In this episode, Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, and Micah Richards tackle the biggest football stories of the week, including the anticlimactic Arsenal vs. Liverpool showdown, chaotic scenes and confusion at Manchester United, Brentford’s surprise resurgence, and dramatic Premier League action elsewhere. With their signature blend of banter, tactical insight, and honest critique, the trio delivers engaging discussion, dressing-room tales, and sharp analysis of the season so far, shining a light on boardroom mismanagement, player attitudes, and VAR frustrations.

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1. Drab Duel at the Emirates: Arsenal vs. Liverpool

Key Segment: 00:57–11:20

• Anticlimax in North London

  • The hosts admit the highly anticipated fixture was underwhelming—tactically contested, but low on genuine excitement.
  • Alan Shearer (02:15): "I mean, it was a bit of an anticlimax, wasn't it, big mix."
  • Liverpool pressed man-to-man with Sabaslai and Verts; Gakpo unexpectedly played left, Frimpong right.
  • Arsenal’s attack lacked punch; substitute Jesus added life but couldn’t alter the result.

• Significant Player Notes

  • Micah Richards: "Yokerez... needs to find something from somewhere. He needs to find it fast." (03:10)
  • Praise for Liverpool’s defense—Van Dijk and Connor Bradley highlighted.

• Big Picture

  • Result likely suits Liverpool more; Arsenal now six points clear but with lingering frustration for not beating a depleted Liverpool (Salah, Ekitike, Isaac all out).
  • Micah Richards (05:59): "Yes, they didn't lose the game. But I know in the dressing room they'll be frustrated that they didn't get all three points."

• On Arsenal's Mentality

  • Gary Lineker: "Even if they don’t play, if they're not at their best... they're still not getting beaten."
  • The panel notes Arsenal's defensive solidity and maturity in grinding results.

• Memorable Moments

  • Martinelli’s late injury raised concern: "You just hope he's alright." (Micah, 08:00)
  • Fantasy football frustration surfaces, especially as Gabriel misses a sitter and loses bonus points (09:59).

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2. Manchester United’s Turmoil

Key Segment: 13:56–23:39

• Amorim Sacked: Boardroom Chaos

  • Alan Shearer delivers a blistering indictment of United's leadership:
    • "They have to accept their blame as well, because they've made an absolute mess of every decision they've made since they've been in there." (15:28)
  • Confusion over interim appointments: Darren Fletcher, others possibly stepping in; Tuchel rumors swirl.
  • Micah Richards critiques the lack of a coherent plan and timing of Amorim’s departure amidst squad injuries and the transfer window.
  • Gary Lineker: “It's become a bit of a basket case of a football club.”

• Managerial Uncertainty

  • The hosts warn against repeating past mistakes: giving the interim the permanent job if they have a strong run (Oli Gunnar Solskjaer déjà vu).
  • Alan: “I think Man United need a big strong manager now who’s been around…a big name to take control.” (18:41)

• Power Dynamics

  • Discussion of club structure—do coaches have control or are “the suits” (executives) running the show?
  • Gary (20:21): “Coaches don’t get full control… The suits taken over the game… people up in the top wanting to make decisions.”
  • Alan adds: The best-run clubs in the league give managers substantial say over transfers (City, Arsenal, Villa).

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3. Premier League Drama: Fantasy Football, Memorable Matches & Controversies

Key Segment: 23:39–39:34

• Leeds vs Newcastle: Wild 4-3 Thriller

  • WhatsApp banter between Alan and Micah about "marching on together."
  • Newcastle equals rare record by winning after trailing three times.
  • Alan Shearer (25:50): “It was just one of those great games of football…just going for each other.”
  • Controversial penalty debated: "That wasn't a penalty, guys, surely!" (Micah, 26:57); Alan agrees it wasn’t handball but will "take it."

• Fantasy Football Gripes

  • Gary’s ongoing frustrations: “The more I understand about fantasy football, the less I like the bloody game.”
  • Classic fantasy woes—players dropped or swapped immediately score elsewhere.

• Everton’s Chaos

  • Michael Keane’s contentious red card for “hair pulling”: "I mean he jumped up obviously and his hand went on his hair...and he gets like a red card for that." (Gary, 29:57)
  • Goalkeeper “panenka” penalty embarrassment discussed (Micah/Alan, 46:05).

• Bournemouth vs Spurs: Semenyo’s Emotional Farewell Goal

  • Alan Shearer: “For him to turn out every week and play and put a shift in…what a way to sign off.” (31:32)
  • Celebrated for professionalism and attitude despite knowing of his imminent move to Manchester City.

• Player Criticism and Boardroom Silence at Spurs

  • Spurs’ Romero lashes out at club leadership on Instagram, suggesting “at times like this, it should be other people coming out to speak, but they don't… They only show up when things are going well.” (32:45)
  • Alan and Micah debate whether players are deflecting blame or making legitimate points about club leadership's public absence.

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4. Chelsea’s Ongoing Struggles & Rossinya’s Appointment

Key Segment: 37:01–42:53

• Red Card Controversy

  • Cucurella sent off against Fulham; panel agrees it’s probably the right decision, but debate over “forward play” and defender’s error.

• Striker Hope

  • Praise for The Lap: "I think he will score goals if he stays fit and strong. I’d love to see him get a real run of games." (Gary, 37:55)

• Liam Rossenya’s Managerial Challenge

  • Micah predicts (and takes credit for predicting) Rossenya’s rise to the Premier League.
  • Gary jests about Micah’s trumpet-blowing.

• What Rossenya Needs to Do at Chelsea

  • Alan: “He’s got to get in top four and win trophies.”
  • Micah: “He’s got to win over the fans.”
  • Gary: “It’s great to see a young English coach getting an opportunity.”

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5. VAR Frustration & the Relegation Battle

Key Segment: 42:53–44:57

• Forest’s Crucial Win Over West Ham

  • Alan: “West Ham…so fragile at the minute…looking very, very likely that the three that are there are the three that are going to go.” (43:44)

• VAR & Officiating Complaints

  • Disallowed Somerville goal met with despair: “What has our beautiful game become… you absolutely scrutinize every little detail now.” (Micah, 43:56)
  • Gary’s repeated call for an appeals system: “It’s seriously putting a dent in our wonderful game.” (44:58)

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6. Brentford’s Unexpected Resurgence

Key Segment: 44:58–46:19

• Praise for Manager Keith Andrews

  • “None of us saw that… Dreamland.”
  • Brentford’s ability to thrive after losing stars (Mbeumo, Bissa, Norgaard) praised as a modern miracle.

• Thiago’s Sensational Form

  • Alan Shearer: “Big Thiago up front. Wow. Sensational.”

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7. Miscellaneous & Notable Quotes

• Tributes and Football Losses (10:24–12:34):

  • Remembering Martin Chivers and Terry Yorath; condolences for Gabby Logan.
  • Alan on Kevin Keegan’s cancer diagnosis: “He was my hero…sending all our love and my love to Kevin and hope he’s okay and he can come through this.” (11:33)

• Banter Round-up:

  • Gary on Micah’s exploits: “I’m looking over your shoulder at your cabinet there. I’m trying to find your trumpet.” (39:13)
  • Group fantasy football taunts: “You’re last in our group by the way.” (Gary, 39:34)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Arsenal vs Liverpool Review: 00:57–11:20
• Man United’s Managerial Chaos: 13:56–23:39
• Leeds vs Newcastle Madness & Fantasy Football: 23:39–31:00
• Bournemouth/Spurs & Leadership Critique: 31:00–36:12
• Chelsea, Red Cards, Rossenya’s Appointment: 37:01–42:53
• VAR, Relegation Battle, Brentford Boom: 42:53–46:19

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Memorable Quotes

• “They have to accept their blame as well, because they’ve made an absolute mess of every decision they’ve made since they’ve been in there.” — Alan Shearer on United’s hierarchy (15:28)
• “The more I understand about fantasy football, the less I like the bloody game.” — Gary Lineker (27:27)
• “It’s become a bit of a basket case of a football club.” — Gary Lineker on Manchester United (17:33)
• “You just hope he’s alright.” — Micah on Martinelli’s injury (08:00)
• “At times like this, it should be other people coming out to speak, but they don’t, as has been happening for several years now.” — [paraphrase of] C. Romero’s Instagram, discussed by Gary (32:45)
• “It’s not killing the game; that’s hyperbole—but it is… putting a dent in our wonderful game.” — Gary on VAR (44:58)

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Tone and Chemistry

True to form, the episode delivers a lively, honest, and entertaining blend of informed punditry and friendly ribbing—never shying away from strong criticism of club hierarchies, nor missing a chance for a fantasy football dig or a tribute to player attitude. The rapport between the trio is as warm and banter-filled as ever, ensuring fans get both sharp analysis and a genuine feel for the characters behind the microphones.

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For more insight-packed discussion and proper laughs on all things football, tune in to "The Rest Is Football" wherever you get your podcasts.

Transcript

[Gary Lineker]

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[Gary Lineker]

For more information about land referrals and energy powering the full festive fixture list, head to landuse energy.com. Hello and welcome to the rest is Football with Micah Richards, Alan Shearer and me, Gary Lineker. We're recording. Well, it's quite complicated actually. We're recording this part of the episode after the Arsenal Liverpool game on Thursday night. You hopefully you'll be listening to this on Friday. But we also know of course that there were eight games played yesterday and one on Tuesday. That's Wednesday and Tuesday and we're covering those. But we thought we'd put them in the second half because obviously this was a big game and it also gave us more chance to edit it so we could make sure you got it nice and early on your way to work or the dog walk or the school run or whatever it is, you listen to them. So that's our explanation. But after, after all that, you know, waiting for this big game, it was, I would say, slightly anticlimactic, would you agree?

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, I would agree because I've been in the pub watching it with two really good friends of mine, George Culkin from the Athletic and from Telegraph. Yeah, so I was in the pub, I went for lunch with them this afternoon. I thought, oh, why not? Let's carry on to the pub. So we watched the match and it, I mean it was a, it was a bit of an anti climax, wasn't it? Big mix.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, I'd have to agree. I think it was all about tactics. I think Liverpool was going man to man and then they sort of had Sabaslai and Verts. They was the two that was pressing Gakpo. People thought he's gonna play up front. He played to the left, Fring Pong on the right and it was just I mean, Arsenal did try go for the game to win the game, but they didn't have enough quality. Yokerez. He needs to find something from somewhere. He needs to find it fast. Jesus comes on the pitch. Second half. He lives it up a little bit. Fought bad. Wicked. All right when he. When he came on. But if you're. The Liverpool camp defended really well.

[Alan Shearer]

Fair result, wasn't it? No one did enough to win the game, did they?

[Gary Lineker]

I thought Arsenal had the better of the first half and Liverpool had the better of the second half. Probably. But I had a couple of guests for dinner. Actually. I was cooking as well, but I did have the game on in the background. But they understood two of my favorite people, Marina Perkus and Gemma Forte from the Troll Pod. I'll give them a little plug. They're next door. Great. No, I've left them in the kitchen. They're still in the kitchen. I've moved.

[Alan Shearer]

What did you cook them?

[Gary Lineker]

I did a curry.

[Alan Shearer]

Nice.

[Gary Lineker]

A rogan Josh. A slow cook. Lamb rogan Josh.

[Alan Shearer]

So you've been preparing it all day, haven't you?

[Gary Lineker]

All afternoon? Yeah, all afternoon. But I did have the game on in. In the background. But I mean, Manch. Manchester City will be quite pleased. We bring them into this conversation because they drop points. I suppose the good news for Manchester City is that the Antoine Semenya signing has gone through. Mike is punch in the air. He's gone back to his Manchester City fan time.

[Alan Shearer]

You're happy with him?

[Micah Richards]

I'm more than happy with him.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah.

[Micah Richards]

Now he's dynamic, can play both sides. We've all seen it. Left, right, attitude, worker dynamism. He's got everything. I'm buzzing with this sign. Absolutely buzzing.

[Gary Lineker]

I think it's a really, really good sign. He's clearly a great human being and we've already spoken about this this morning in terms of his attitude, which you'll hear in the second half. This is very random, isn't it, the way we're doing this episode? But I think he's been an absolute great example about how to handle these sort of situations. And to go out scoring the winning goal was. Was absolutely fabulous. And. And Iriola as well. You know, talk really, really, really well and complimentary about him. So. So good luck to him. And I think it's a good signing for City.

[Alan Shearer]

Definitely massive. A great attitude, great player. Good luck to him.

[Gary Lineker]

So Arsenal at home against Liverpool have been struggling. I think it's probably a better result for Liverpool than perhaps Arsenal.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, I guess. I mean, if you Said to Arsenal, are you going to be what these six points clear after so many games of the snap your hands off. But they'll be slightly disappointed after their. They won't be able to beat Liverpool. But I guess also they'll look at it as if to say how far we come. We're disappointed not to beat Liverpool at home. On the back of Man City drawing at home. So yeah, I think it's. It is what it is. But Arsenal in a great position.

[Gary Lineker]

They really are.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, I'd have to agree with what Al said. I still think there will be frustration though. There's a few groans from the crowd. Do you after the game. I just think with Man City dropping points like you said against Brighton in the first half Arsenal, it was so dominant with the ball but they couldn't find the last little pass in the end. And I know you look back at the season, you think a draw against Liverpool, but this is a wounded Liverpool side. You know, no Isaac, no Ekatike, no Salah. All their firepower was out. So you're thinking to yourself this is a time to play Liverpool, especially a couple of their results and they couldn't get it over the line. So yes, they didn't lose the game. But I know in the dressing room they'll be frustrated that they didn't get all three points.

[Gary Lineker]

The one thing that they criticized occasionally, especially in big games, is being overly cautious. Did you feel that tonight, Micah?

[Micah Richards]

No, I actually didn't feel that tonight. I just feel like they couldn't open up the doors. Had a few, you know, couple of chances around the box.

[Alan Shearer]

Was it not?

[Micah Richards]

No, it was half chances but it was those, you know, it was a last pass or that little bit of composure in the final moment when they needed it and they just didn't have it. I thought Saka did all right in the first half. We went down the byline against Kirkes, put it in. The runs weren't right. There was a really good ball in the first half. When you think where's Yokerez in the box. All them runs that you talk about, Allan and when the ball's coming into the movement, it just, just wasn't there. And that's partly because Liverpool defended well. Also I think they was very organized for Van Dijk was good. Connor Bradley, I thought he was good as well.

[Gary Lineker]

What did you make of the incident at the end with Martinelli?

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, it looks like. Look, I'm no doctor but the way he sort of his ankle went the other way and then he was holding his knee. So I don't know if he's.

[Gary Lineker]

Just hope he's all right.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, yeah, I hope he's all right. People look at that. And Martinelli, it doesn't look great. He was just frustrated. He wanted to start the game. But if he's got a bad injury and he's trying to push him off the pitch, it's not a good look at all.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, totally agree. Manchester City. Also, Drew, this is one of the games we didn't discuss in the second half and if. If anything is repeated in the second half, forgive us because I can't remember bloody thing about what we talked about earlier this morning.

[Alan Shearer]

That's all right. Your edge is fine, guys.

[Micah Richards]

Exactly.

[Gary Lineker]

It's. You worry about your memory. But yeah, and City obviously let points slip last night, so. And Villa as well. Obviously drew nil. Nil with Palace. So it's as you were, really.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, it is as you were. But I think looking at the bigger picture, I said like a minute ago, if you were Arsenal, you're in the driving seat. You're thinking, we haven't played so well, we haven't got the right result maybe that we wanted, but we are six points clear.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah. After a huge advantage to.

[Alan Shearer]

Absolutely. Yeah. So they, they should take great hope and great confidence from that. Even though they had a frustrating night. But yeah, I think they're in. They're in a great position. Amazing position, actually.

[Gary Lineker]

I mean they'd have absolutely grabbed the handoff at the start of the season for this.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

And they look so solid. And that's the thing. Even if they don't play, if they're not at their best, like I would say they weren't tonight, they're still not getting beaten. And that's an important thing I would say. And they don't concede many, do they? Especially when they've got the. The main pairing at the back. They just don't concede too many goals. Alth Gabrielle could have nicked it at the end. He's in my team, Micah. And. But at least they got a clean sheet.

[Micah Richards]

Is it my team as well? It looks like he's on bonus too as well, guys, so don't worry.

[Gary Lineker]

Oh, I'm not. I'm not overly worried, Mike. The bloody fantasy drives me mad.

[Micah Richards]

Oh, he's fell out. He fell out the bonuses.

[Gary Lineker]

He fell out the bonuses.

[Alan Shearer]

What the hell does that mean?

[Gary Lineker]

He fell out the bonuses. Cuz he missed a sitter apparently, which is. I don't know whether I'll sleep tonight now.

[Alan Shearer]

Well, he made A lovely lamb, Rogan, Joss, whatever. So it's fine.

[Gary Lineker]

And yeah, so anyway, as you were at the. At the thing, but it's. It's been actually quite a sad few days in the football world. We lost two greats. Martin Chivers, who played at spurs for many years, scored a hell of a lot of goals for Tottenham and Southampton. And Southampton as well.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

Quite rightly say.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

And also of course, Terry Yorith who had, you know, moved around but played at Leeds for a long time, won the title at Leeds, obviously. We also know him as the father of. Of Gabby Logan, who is obviously our friend and was a colleague for a long time and still your colleague. So I just want to send our absolute condolences to Gabby. I know how difficult it is losing a parent. So. Yeah, thoughts are with you, Gabby, at this difficult time.

[Alan Shearer]

Absolutely.

[Gary Lineker]

And also Alan, I know which Kevin Keegan's been diagnosed with. With cancer. So it's been a bloody horrible.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

Few days. Someone very close to you.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, we found out unusual Kevin the other day and I was in touch with him and I sent him a text message a couple yesterday and yeah, as tough as it is, he seems in. In good spirits and he got amazing reception at NEWC for the game. Obviously we all love him. He was my hero. So we're sending all our love and my love to Kevin and hope he's. Hope he's okay and he can come through this.

[Gary Lineker]

Absolutely. He's one of my heroes growing up as well. What a player. What a player, what a person.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah. And also obviously, as you said, sending our condolences to the Chivers family and to the, to. To Gabby and to the rest of her family as well. It's like, oh, so hard, so tough.

[Micah Richards]

So sad though, wasn't it? Because I don't know if he was watching much today, but she was on and then next minute I saw Chapas on and then he explained the situation and yeah, it's never nice.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, absolutely.

[Gary Lineker]

It's the worst. It's the worst. Okay, let's take a pause there and when we come back, it'll be this morning, if you understand what I'm saying. And we'll talk about the games that have taken place prior to tonight. Back shortly.

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[Gary Lineker]

Welcome back to the Rest Is Football with Michael Richards, Alan Shearer and me, Gary Lineker. I suppose the last time we spoke chaps was around the Manchester United time when we were speculating about what might happen with Reuben Ambrose. I think you quite rightly predicted that his days were numbered. You could say hours were numbered. Obviously Reuben Amarin went, lost his job. There's clearly a big fallout at the top of the club there. It's all a bit of a mess, isn't it?

[Alan Shearer]

Whatever job you're in in life, you can't criticize your bosses like he did, otherwise you're going to run the risk of getting sacked. And no surprise, that's exactly what happened. But yeah, he has to take responsibility and with the job he did, it was nowhere near good enough. He'd come in under very difficult circumstances, he was very adamant, he wasn't changing. And it was all very mixed messages, I think, and systems and all of that. And so yeah, it didn't work for him. But I have to say the people running the football club have to accept their the blame as well that they need. I mean they made an absolute mess of it and we've not the first time we've said this. I mean if you look at every corner that they've tried to turn and every decision that they've made, it it's been an absolute joke. I mean, whether it was given 10 hog, a new deal, whether it was then second 10 hog, whether it was paying Newcastle for Dan Ashworth, then him going on gardening leave and then them sacking Dan Ashworth and then giving him a payoff and then going to get Reuben Amarim and not accepting he has to come in now and then paying the money for him, and then his staff. And then what? I don't know. 14 months later, 15 months later, sacking him. I mean, and then the list goes on and on, whether it's staff, whether it's other decisions. The owners, the Sir, Jim, Radcliffe, Wilcox, Berarda, they have to accept their blame as well, because they've made an absolute mess of every decision they've made since they've been in there.

[Micah Richards]

Do you think it was the right time to get rid of Amarin, though? In the, in the grand scale of.

[Alan Shearer]

Things, Al, after what he said, there was no way back for him. You can't criticize your bosses like that in any walk of life. And he wasn't in a position to come and criticize because of his, because of results and, and, and everything else. He hadn't done well enough to come out and have a pot with his bosses, had he?

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, I, I, I, I'd agree with that to a certain extent, but I don't think it was the right time to get rid of him, really. The league's been a bit funny, isn't it, in terms of results. Everyone's taking points off each other. There's not far off Champions League positions. We've got a window now where he could get new players. He's got players at afcon. He's got injured players. In terms of what he said, totally agree with that. I think his position was untenable, but in terms of the team and the structure and then having to start again, I don't think it's right. What, what's the point in it? And then Solskjaer was deemed not good enough. The last time was at Man United. Now he's rumored to come back to the end of the season until they get a proper manager who can take him. There's been reports of Tuchel. I, I just, I just don't understand the plan. And the reason I asked that is because Berard, who's at Man City, he's supposed to unbelievable operator in terms of getting players in, making sure the club's very stable. But the decisions, I have to agree with you, seem like nobody knows what they're doing, which is frightening at the level that we're talking about of a club the size of Manchester United. So it's more confusing. But I don't, I don't think right now was a time to get rid of Amarin, because you have to start again.

[Gary Lineker]

I think they're already starting to make strange decisions, aren't they? Even post Amarim, you'd put bring in Darren Fletcher. Fine. Perfectly, you know, understandable to bring someone like that into, to run the team for a minute and then they're talking about bringing another interim in until the end of the season, which doesn't really make much sense. Then they're going to probably point someone in the summer who that will be. I don't know who would go there as well. By the way, there's a few people available now that you mentioned, Thomas Tuchel. But why would someone of that grade walk into that club at the moment? Because of all the examples that Alan gave recently. It's a, you know, it's become a bit of a basket case of a football club. There's clearly all sorts of shenanigans going on at the very top. And, and it's been significantly worse obviously since Radcliffe came in. I mean, you can speculate all you like as to who might be next and. But if they give it to Oligon Associates, okay, then they'll be in a position again where they probably want to end up having to give it to someone that perhaps they don't really want to give it to. I don't know because they, they disposed of him, you know, just a few years ago.

[Alan Shearer]

So I think they have to be really careful on that situation because whoever they bring in now, whether that is Ollie or whether it's Michael Carrick or whether it's Darren Fletcher that stays in the job. Even if they were to do really well in between now and the end of the season, I have to, I think they have to be really careful in, in their judgment in terms of. Because there could be some big hitters available at the end of the season, even after the World cup. And there's no doubt that, that I think Man United need a big strong manager now who's been around it and seen it all and done it all, and a big name manager to come in and take control. Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't they. Oli took over the first time as interim, then they gave him the job full time. Yeah. And then obviously sacked him. And I think that they have to be very careful of, of doing that again if the interim, whoever that may be, does really well in between now and the end of the season. One thing saying another thing, doing it because I, I don't think they're a good team.

[Gary Lineker]

Do you think they can attract a big hitter? I mean, he's still a huge football club, you know, that doesn't change. But if you were a Big top, top coach. Now you look at that club and go that is a big gamble.

[Micah Richards]

I think you still want the job. You always a manager think you can turn it round. I think the key question Gaz would be do you have full control? Are you a coach or are you a manager? And do you get to pick the players that you want? Are you not having people above you meddling what you want to do on the pitch? And if you have full control, 100%.

[Gary Lineker]

Coaches don't get full control node now, do they? Shift it up. The suits taken over the game, you know, the people up in the top wanting to make the decisions. We saw that obviously with Maresca. We've seen that now with Amarim. Very strong rumors around Liverpool at the moment. There's a bit of a fallout between Arnie Slot and I think it's Richard Hughes running the operations there. People want their say on team matters and ex etc.

[Micah Richards]

But just on that guys though I, I understand it, you know for a little bit of balance. So if you have a manager who comes in and buys all these players and then the new manager doesn't like those players and wants his own players, then you end up with a huge bill. You might have played massive transfer for these players. Then they say they're not moving because they don't like the options that are presented to them. Then you end up with an unsettled dressing room. So I understand why you do get involved but I think they can together.

[Gary Lineker]

That's what they need to do. You've got to be together on these things. I mean. Yeah, and the game. It's difficult. If you've got a different manager every year, how do, how do you kind of get any kind of partnership going between you? So it, it is a problem. It is difficult.

[Alan Shearer]

What I would say is, is that if you look at the top three in the league at the minute, Arsenal, City and Villa, all well run, all well run. All heavily influenced by the head coach stroke manager. There's no way anyone's coming into City without pep say so there's no way, no one coming into Villa without unai's cso. And I would say the same with at Arsenal. And I think when you look at those three clubs, maybe I'm wrong, I don't know. But they, they for me. Is it a coincidence that manager stroke or have big, big say in who's coming in?

[Gary Lineker]

Not just that though Alan. They've also the, the three of the managers are probably just about the longest serving managers in the league. And that itself I mean how can you build something in 8 months, 10 months, 12 months, 14 months. And those three have been there quite a number of years. People sometimes have been critical because they stuck with Arteta so long, but it looks like it's really paying off now. Unai Emery's been at Villa now for a few years and he's done a tremendous job. Pep's been, he's the longest serving manager just about in Europe behind, behind Simeone. He's been there nine years. So it just shows you give a manager. I honestly think that most of these coaches stroke managers are really, really probably quite good to get where they get in the Premier League. They know what they're doing and we see it. And there's almost a rotation about around the certain clubs in the league. I think they all pretty much know what they're doing, but the issue is probably not so much them. It's either you, you know the, how the club recruits, how the club spends its money, how the club is at the top, how's it managed there. And it's. I don't think it's any coincidence that teams with the most long serving, stable situation in the coaching aspect are the ones that are doing better.

[Alan Shearer]

Yep, totally agree with that. But the, the landscape of management, ownership, coaching has changed dramatically over the years and it's, yeah, it's so different now.

[Gary Lineker]

As for the game itself, I thought Burnley did all right for a lot of it. It's two, two Manchester United. Darren Fletcher would have needed probably. He'd probably thinking, well, if I've got two games, if I, if I win them both emphatically, I might, might get a chance to, to run the asylum.

[Alan Shearer]

Shesco took his goals well, didn't he? Thought his movement was excellent, his finishing was very good. Yeah, sort of needed to because it's, it's been a while I guess for his, for him going forward and for his confidence that'll do him. Should do him the world of good.

[Micah Richards]

I thought Fernandez was good again. I know he had to come off quite early because he was injured. He's just a fantastic player, isn't he?

[Gary Lineker]

And I think he's been a great example at Manchester. I know sometimes people criticize him for getting in a bit of a strop, but he cares. He cares. You know, he throws hands around sometimes and stuff on the pitch, but by his own admission he gets a bit frustrated. I'm not surprised he gets a little bit frustrating. But what a consistently good footballer. Even despite playing at a club that's been a bit of A pickle over the last few years. Well, what a game at your place last night.

[Alan Shearer]

Al. March it all together. Micah. Come on.

[Micah Richards]

I forgot the words.

[Gary Lineker]

Let me brief our listeners and viewers during that. On our group chat. There was a little bit of to and fro, let's say between Alan and Micah last night during the game. Micah sending this meme. Do we call it a meme?

[Micah Richards]

Yes.

[Gary Lineker]

Singing the song. Marching on together. Every time. Every time Leeds led. Michael would post that on the chat. And then when. When the tune equalize, Alan would respond. And it went very late. Twists and turns. Leeds actually became only the second team in Premier League history to lead a game three times and still lose. The first time was also Leeds United back at spurs only three years ago. 2022. And they also lost four. Three on that occasion as well. I mean it was an incredible match.

[Alan Shearer]

It was a great game. I also said in the. In the WhatsApp chat, didn't I? That I was really impressed with. With Leeds. I mean it was so well organized and it was. I don't know. Maybe it was their naivety or their bravery or whatever it was. But they kept on going and going. And the press. Newcastle went man for man. And it was just a great game to. To watch. It was like. Oh my God.

[Gary Lineker]

What?

[Alan Shearer]

Newcastle doing what?

[Micah Richards]

Elite.

[Alan Shearer]

It was like. It was just one of those great games of football. And I guess luckily for Newcastle, they were on the right end of it. And it was an amazing atmosphere. But it was just brilliant to be there and sample two teams just. Just going for each other and leave themselves wide open. I mean I forget how many times the crossbar. The post was. Was hitting the game as well. So it could have been a lot more. It was. It was just a pleasure to be there. It was a great. It was great atmosphere.

[Micah Richards]

When arison scored in 79 minutes to put in a group. There's more goals in this. I just knew it. I knew Newcastle was gonna score at some stage. But that penalty. Come on. That wasn't a penalty. Guys, surely.

[Alan Shearer]

Look, as you know, I'll always give you an honest, honest opinion. And I was the same. I was the same thing. I mean what. What is he meant to do with his arms when he's going to challenge like that? It's just not handball. It can't be handball. I just don't agree with it. So I'm. I'm with you on that one, Micah. But obviously I'll take it.

[Micah Richards]

And then everyone. Everyone had Bruno Grimares in their fantasy team. It's the only soul in the wounds.

[Gary Lineker]

You didn't then obviously.

[Micah Richards]

No. I didn't.

[Gary Lineker]

I mean. I must say this fantasy. I don't like it. Mike. I' really really angry. You and Harry. For forcing us into this. Fantasy football. Just my edit. I mean that. I mean Thiago. Right.

[Stitch Fix Advertiser]

We.

[Gary Lineker]

We'll probably mention him. I mean Thiago. Six games in my team. Right. Six games. He'd scored loads of goals earlier in the season. Bring him in. Six games. No goals. No assists. Right. So think right. Take him out. Take him out. What happens? Five goals in two games. It does your heading. And then suddenly a player doesn't like start. You've got O'Reilly in your team. And then pep leaves him out. And then someone else comes in. Harry Wilson scores a goal. He's off my bench. And then he brings O'Reilly on. So. And all this sort of stuff. But it's. I'm just starting to look. The more I understand about fantasy football, the less I like the bloody game.

[Micah Richards]

So what does that mean for Newcastle? I'll just quickly. Before we move on. Are they back? Are they.

[Alan Shearer]

Means Newcastle are up to sixth. Micah. That's exactly what it means. Yeah. Just stay calm. Not getting too excited. But three wins on the spin. Lovely FA cup weekend to look forward to. Then a semi final. And then I. I think it's Wolves away in the league again the following weekend.

[Gary Lineker]

So.

[Alan Shearer]

I agree with what you say though Micah. It is a bonkers league this year. It's like if you win two games or even three games like Newcastle you're up. You're up to six now. And they're.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah.

[Alan Shearer]

They're flying at the minute now. I would still say they can play better. There's no doubt about it. They haven't. They haven't hit the heights of. Of last season. And there's more to come from them. But that has to be a good sign is just getting results.

[Gary Lineker]

I think the good thing this season is that there's every likelihood. I think now that both Lee. Not just Leeds.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

Who played some good stuff but also Sunderland. Should stay up. Should step comfortably given the nature of the bottom three at the moment as well. So which I think is good. We can't keep having the prom clubs that immediately relegated every season. It would almost turns it into a closed shot.

[Alan Shearer]

Yep.

[Gary Lineker]

Just to continue my fantasy football rant a little bit. Micah. So I brought him like Michael Keane. Right. Brilliant. Scores a goal. I'm thinking fantastic. Scores a goal and he might get a clean sheet. Obviously they didn't Everton in the end didn't get a clean sheet and then he gets sent off. Did you see the sending off.

[Alan Shearer]

Go.

[Micah Richards]

Around pulling people's hair?

[Gary Lineker]

He wasn't really pulling his hair though, see. I mean he jumped up obviously and his hand went on his hair. I mean he's almost trying to, I don't know, try and maybe manipulate his hair in a certain. Give him a little nice hairstyle or something. And he gets like a red card for that. I mean all he did would jump to try and add the ball and probably accidentally like pull two strands of his hair.

[Alan Shearer]

I mean it was ludicrous. And then Jack got the red card.

[Gary Lineker]

As well for clapping the referee for a second yellow card.

[Micah Richards]

I mean that was quite funny though, you have to admit.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah.

[Alan Shearer]

Goodness me. I mean, honestly, it's like. It is sad, isn't it? It's just like don't get me started on referees, guys.

[Gary Lineker]

And man equalized, obviously summer clean sheet. Well, it wouldn't have counted anyway because he was, he was sent off. But man, what a finish that was. The touch.

[Alan Shearer]

The touch to put it into his path.

[Gary Lineker]

Exactly.

[Alan Shearer]

Another little flick around the corner and then to put it into his path and the way he, he guides it. Clever, clever goal. And yeah, he's getting better with every game, isn't he?

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, yeah. Real promising, really promising player.

[Alan Shearer]

Amazing.

[Gary Lineker]

There were a lot of great football matches last night and amongst those was Bournemouth against Spurs and I mean, what a story. I know we mentioned it in the first half. Simone's now gone to signing for Manchester City. But to score with you last, he last touched the winning goal. I mean it was special. It really was another cracking game and their first win in 11 Premier League games.

[Alan Shearer]

And by the way, I think more importantly, what about his attitude? Because he's known for a while he's gone.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah.

[Alan Shearer]

And for him to turn out every week and play and put a shift in if there's anyone deserved the great send off. And the way hit it ended for him at Bournemouth and it was him because of his attitude in terms of not seeing anything, just getting his head down, working and playing and scoring the winning goal. What a way to sign off. Well done him, him for everything that he's done for Bournemouth. And I, I heard the manager speak really, really highly of him after the game and rightly so because very, very professional.

[Gary Lineker]

Perfect example of how to behave.

[Micah Richards]

Well, that's how the bread at City, isn't it? You know, that's how they behave at Manchester City.

[Gary Lineker]

I mean he's not he wasn't at Manchester City when he was doing that behavior, man.

[Micah Richards]

City was involved. Conduct yourself in the right way and we'll take you. No problem at all.

[Gary Lineker]

Mark Gay did exactly the same thing in the summer and it didn't quite work for him, but I suspect it will in the long run.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah.

[Gary Lineker]

And, you know, other players didn't. Didn't behave that well. And funnily enough, for those players, it's not gone that well for them so far, but I don't know there's anything in that.

[Alan Shearer]

But big win for Bournemouth or wasn't it? Big win for both? Yeah, huge. Did you see. Did you see Romero's comments after the idea with Spurs?

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, he was on his Instagram, Alan. He said the following. Apologies to fans who follow us everywhere, who are always there, will continue to be. We are responsible, there's no doubt about that. I am the first. But we will keep facing up to it and trying to turn the situation around for ourselves and for the club. At times like this, it should be other people coming out to speak, but they don't, as has been happening for several years now. They only show up when things are going well. We'll stay here, working, sticking together and giving our all to turn things around, especially at times like this. Keeping quiet, working harder and moving forward all together is part of football altogether. It will be easier now. This seems to me it's not a manager doing it this time, but it's a player. It's another little dig at the suits, isn't it?

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, there's no doubt about it. I guess it's whoever's signing players, whoever's running the club at. At Tottenham, and that's who. It's a dig out. There's no doubt about that. Has to be. Doesn't.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, but the players could play better also, you know.

[Gary Lineker]

Well, he is saying that. He said, it starts with us. It's down to us, it's our responsibility. He does say that and he says I'm the first. He blames himself first, but he's obviously, and we've heard it from previous managers, haven't we, at Tottenham, that things are very, very difficult there. I don't know whether he's, you know, who's who. Well, obviously Levy's not there anymore. He lost his role. But it seems perhaps things have not changed. We don't know exactly what he's referring or who he's referring to. When managers or coaches do that, they tend to lose their jobs, but I don't think they want to get Rid of Romero. He's far too good.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, absolutely. Yeah. It is strange though, isn't it? Is that you never. We never ever hear from. And that's. I guess that's what he's saying. And I guess the similar thing at Man United, the people that make the big decisions in terms of bringing players in or bringing the head coach or manager, however you want to describe, you never hear from them.

[Micah Richards]

So Cal Dune does a sit down interview after every season. So if he come out and, and said something, then that would be the norm. Like if. If the owners don't come out and speak and haven't done for years and years, why would they come out and speak now?

[Alan Shearer]

I'm not necessarily saying owners, Mike. I'm saying, you know, the director of football or who. A chief executive or something like that. Whoever's, whoever's making the big decisions, that is signing players or signing the coach or a manager. You're very. You don't hear from them ever really, do you?

[Micah Richards]

You heard a little bit from. From Levy, didn't you, when he was still at the club. But yeah, you raise a good point. But I just. I feel it's a little bit of a cop out. You know, I've played with some good teams and I've been from relegation with Villa. I don't come out and start talking about the board. Ultimately I wasn't playing well enough and spurs have not played well enough for two seasons now. So it's easy to pass the book, isn't it? We can all do that and there probably is something in what he's trying to say and it would be nice for that little bit of support. So I get that point. But ultimately they've not been good enough on the field.

[Alan Shearer]

Or is he saying he wants better players?

[Micah Richards]

Maybe. Maybe that's. Maybe that's what he's angling for.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, it.

[Gary Lineker]

It could be. I mean they had. It was a bit of a debacle, wasn't it, in the summer when they missed out Morgan, Gibbs, White. Didn't they sudden turn around in that one? And then Eze has obviously went to Arsenal. Yeah, they're big rivals. Gotta mention Paulinho's goal, the overhead kick. I like that. That was pretty tasty. Before we move on, let's talk about Chelsea as well. Who. Who lost the local derby down the road here at Fulham. Another good result for Fulham. Obviously Rossini was. He wasn't in charge of the side. Good call, that one. It's one of those. You probably want to do it and then if you don't win. But yeah, Fulham did well. Chelsea went down to 10 men. Cookery. I think that was the right decision, wasn't he?

[Alan Shearer]

Had to send him off.

[Micah Richards]

Yeah, I think maybe just. But Wilson had his arm across him first.

[Alan Shearer]

Forward play it well.

[Gary Lineker]

Not.

[Micah Richards]

It was smart.

[Gary Lineker]

It was brilliant forward play. The way he got across him. Harry Wilson. No, that's what you.

[Alan Shearer]

You. That's what you have to do.

[Micah Richards]

He's holding him. The ref doesn't give a foul and then he's just a natural reaction.

[Gary Lineker]

I don't think he was holding him, Mike. He's just running in front of him.

[Alan Shearer]

The defender shouldn't get the wrong side of him. Then he wouldn't be able to hold him.

[Micah Richards]

Hold on. Watching back. He's holding him like that.

[Alan Shearer]

And then.

[Micah Richards]

He gets in front of him and then he just holds on a little bit too long. So I agree with you. Probably the right decision.

[Alan Shearer]

Great forward player, Micah.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah.

[Alan Shearer]

If you. If you defenders are stupid enough to get the wrong side, then you're going to get sent off. Was a right decision. Clear red card.

[Gary Lineker]

The lap obviously scored Mr. Chance just before he scored the goal. I think there's something in him. He's got to prove it yet. He's got to stay fit. Yeah, but I like his movement. I like the way he tries to get behind. I think he will score goals if he stays fit and strong. I'd love to see him get a real run of games just to give him that opportunity. Interesting to see if Liam Rocinha will do that. We haven't spoken since that was confirmed that he's got the job. It's a big challenge, as we said when we thought he was going to get the job. But it is. But what an opportunity for him.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, it's great opportunity for him. As we said earlier, huge potential. But it is a massive job and I hope he doesn't get swallowed up in it. It's very different, I think, to other football clubs and how it's run. There's no way he could have turned it down. So, yeah, we wish him well. But it's a huge job job before.

[Micah Richards]

Before we move on. Can we go back to the archives again? You said the up and coming managers and who did. I said. I said about a year ago, Liam Rosinha is going to the very top and John and Ari. I want the evidence. I want the evidence of this because I remember saying it and look now.

[Gary Lineker]

Micah, can I say something? I'm looking over your shoulder at your cabinet there. I'm Trying to find your trumpet.

[Micah Richards]

Well, you look in the wrong direction. It's over there.

[Gary Lineker]

It must be cuz you do off blow it a lot. You're on trumpet.

[Micah Richards]

I just want the evidence, I want the receipts, that's all I want.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, we've got the evidence of your football fantasy team and it's. You're lasting our group by the way, so you can give all that trumpet blowing you like. But yes, well done, well done.

[Alan Shearer]

We haven't even got any evidence. He said it yet though, guys, come on.

[Micah Richards]

No, there's definitely evidence.

[Gary Lineker]

Let's hope it doesn't go too badly for him otherwise. Then you'll be quiet.

[Micah Richards]

I definitely will be quiet. I, I, I have had some blunders as well. I think I had. Who was it to go down Bournemouth to go down last season, didn't they?

[Gary Lineker]

Predicting things in football is difficult but what's he going to do there, going into a club like that? I mean he's obviously, he's been around a little while now. He's, he's kind of, he worked at, with Derby, with Wayne Rooney. Interesting to hear him talk about his relationship with Wayne Rooney. It's clearly very good. And he went to Hull, then he's been at Strasbourg in France learning his trade and now he's got this, this big opportunity. We know it's a, you know, trophies aren't necessarily enough at Chelsea, the amount of managers they've gone through in recent years. But what, what should he do when he goes there as a relatively inexperienced manager, coach, I think it's pretty clear.

[Alan Shearer]

What he has to do. Doesn't. He's got to get in touch Champions League and win trophies.

[Gary Lineker]

Yeah, but they'll have some big egos in that dressing room. I'm talking in terms of how does he present himself, how does he go in there at his club like.

[Micah Richards]

I think he's got to win over the funds because there'll be a section of the fans thinking it's too soon. When I spoke to the Chelsea representation, they said they absolutely love him and they said because of his style of play and they looked to other managers and they had maybe a bigger reputation within football. But it's his ability to deal with young players, give them confidence, the style of play and the way he articulates himself in meetings. What they was really impressed with. And they got to see him every day when he was at Strasbourg as well under the ownership group. But I think it's just as Alan said, you've got to win trophies, haven't you? You can look good, you can play good football, but Chelsea fans expect silverware.

[Alan Shearer]

He needs to get off to a good start.

[Micah Richards]

A good start.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, agreed. That would obviously clearly help him.

[Gary Lineker]

But yeah, I think it's great to see a young English coach coming in and getting an opportunity at one of the big boys. And it doesn't happen very often, obviously. Frank Lampard did it on a couple of occasions at Chelsea and it didn't quite work out for him, although he's killing it now, obviously at Coventry. I think it would be great to see because there's been. We've been bereft of really top English coaches. He seems incredibly driven and intelligent when I've heard him speak. So I know it's another thing doing it with a club like Chelsea, but good luck to him.

[Alan Shearer]

Good luck to him.

[Gary Lineker]

Before we go, we should talk, just a quick line on a very significant game that was played on Tuesday night where Forest came out on top at West Ham. I mean, it's looking highly unlikely that the bottom three anything but the bottom three at the end of the season.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, it was a massive result, wasn't it, for Forest? Yeah. West Ham. I thought they did all right first off, but I think they were. They were the better team. But you can just tell they're so fragile at the minute and once the they were under pressure, then I guess they'll feel it was a harsh decision with a penalty. But when you're a goalkeeper and you're coming out like that, you have to come and collect the ball, not the forward who you. You clattered into. So disaster for. For West. Ha. Yeah. It's looking very, very likely that the three that are there are the three that are going to go.

[Micah Richards]

Agreed, though they did play well. I think that Somerville goal, if that had a stood to make it too.

[Gary Lineker]

What did you make of that? I mean, it's a bizarre one, wasn't it? I mean, it was. I mean, it was so harsh.

[Micah Richards]

Ridiculous. Honestly, I was watching the game thinking what. What is how beautiful game become where you absolutely scrutinize everything, every little detail now.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, but don't forget, they're not going to re referee or interfere.

[Gary Lineker]

They're totally refereed.

[Alan Shearer]

Remember that? Yeah, we're not going to re referee and we're not going to interfere.

[Micah Richards]

But you can't blame them for the decision because they have to do their job, you know. But now we're looking at absolutely everything. It's just. It's not a good watch.

[Gary Lineker]

It's a nonsense and I'm Going to say it one more time. Time. Bring in the appeal system quickly because that's the only thing that will. Will get rid of this. This constant looking for reasons to either give a penalty or not give a penalty or give a goal or disallow a goal. Usually they're looking for something this. It's just. It's just so frustrating and it's just. It's not killing the game.

[Micah Richards]

That's.

[Gary Lineker]

That's. That's hyperbole, but it is. It's seriously putting a dent in our wonderful game. Game. There's no doubt about that. It's. It's very depressing. I don't want to finish on a depressing note. Brentford, I mean, I mean, what a job Keith Andrews is doing. I mean, none of us saw that we mentioned before, obviously. Thomas Frank left and Bomo went, Bissa went. Nor God went. I mean, incredible.

[Alan Shearer]

No one, not even. Not even the. The staunchest Brentford fans could imagine that they'll be where they are this minute in time. I mean, they're dreamland.

[Gary Lineker]

I bu into a Brenford fan nearly twice a week in when I'm doing my shopping around Barnes and he's always there and he always gives him a little word. I don't think.

[Micah Richards]

I haven't.

[Gary Lineker]

I haven't seen him since that victory yet, but he's unbelievable.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah, what a job. Brilliant and big Thiago up front. Wow. Sensational.

[Micah Richards]

But just. Just on Sunland, while you talking so glowingly about Brentford, did you see the penalty?

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah.

[Micah Richards]

An anchor.

[Alan Shearer]

Yeah. At one nil. That was to equalize, wasn't it?

[Micah Richards]

From the fee.

[Gary Lineker]

What kind of idiot tries to take.

[Alan Shearer]

Especially when the keeper just stands there and catches it straight there.

[Gary Lineker]

It's like, oh, the only problem with a panaker. And it works mostly when you do. It does work, it's really good. But when you do miss one and the keeper doesn't move, you don't look a brat. Yeah, it's the most embarrassing thing. It's. I can obviously speak personal experience on that note. So that's it for this episode. It's an FA cup weekend third round. Always one of the special weekends of the season. We'll discuss that one on Monday. Goodbye from me.

[Alan Shearer]

Goodbye from me.

[Micah Richards]

Hey, hey, hey. I'm normally second.

[Alan Shearer]

Oh, sorry. Yeah, you're normally second.

[Micah Richards]

You jumped the gun there, Al.

[Alan Shearer]

Sorry, Big Meek.

[Micah Richards]

Do you want to start again? Goodbye from me.

[Alan Shearer]

Goodbye from me.

[Gary Lineker]

So what's really going on between Donald Trump and Venezuela right now? I'm Gordon Carrera, national security journalist.

[Alan Shearer]

And I'm David McCloskey, author and former CIA analyst. And we together at the the hosts of the Rest Is Classified. In our latest emergency episodes, we go deep into the inside track of what's really going on in the spy war in Venezuela.

[Gary Lineker]

And we're looking at how, with the help of the CIA, Donald Trump has managed to oust Venezuela's leader.

[Alan Shearer]

So get the full insider scoop by listening to the Rest Is Classified. Wherever you get your podcasts.