http://www.beyondthepitch.net/ Now We’re Talking Football: A fresh perspective on the World’s only Beautiful Game. Beyond The Pitch is a new and creative endeavor that has dedicated itself to the global game from numerous points of view, featuring expert opinion and debate to offer their unique perspectives. Now We’re Talking Football: A fresh perspective on the World’s only Beautiful Game. Beyond The Pitch is a new and creative endeavor that has dedicated itself to the global game from numerous points of view, featuring expert opinion and debate to offer their unique perspectives. Beyond The Pitch BTP show@beyondthepitch.net en-us 720 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/images/icon_disp.png http://www.beyondthepitch.net/ (C) 2013 beyondthepitch.net Sun, 16 Jun 2013 23:57:17 PST Football, soccer, talk, sport, soccer, Football, soccer, talk, sport, soccer, no nonadult From the start of the 2013 Confederations Cup in Brazil to the U21 European Championships in Israel, it is becoming rather clear that the Spanish and Italian national team programs continue to enforce their dominance at or near the top of most predictions a year removed from the real thing in 2014, both possessing a blend of veteran technique with serious silverware and a young emerging class of attacking players rivaled only by Germany and Argentina at their best. Joining this edition of the show for his debut to discuss these topics and several others is BeIN Sport commentator and pundit Ian Joy who weighs in these important matters and even opens up on some of his career highlights including his arrival in Major League Soccer from abroad when Real Salt Lake made its first emergence on the national scene and helps us dissect the matter of the England U21 failures given his perspective from his days in the Manchester United youth system. If you like your football and football topics fast and furious we weave in and out of youth team football, what is working and not working on the US National Team under Jurgen Klinsmann and what we might be able to expect not only at this Confederations Cup but also for the Americans who have two very distinct paths ahead of them - three and out which means complete failure or making enough progress to get out of the group stage and take their shot in the knockout rounds. Ian Joy was raised in Scotland, and was a member of the youth academies of both Manchester United and Tranmere Rovers. He began his professional career in Europe, playing for clubs such as Montrose in Scotland, Kidderminster Harriers in England, and Hamburger SV and St Pauli in Germany before playing in 20 MLS games in 2008 with Real Salt Lake as the club reached the MLS playoffs for the first time in the franchise history. From the start of the 2013 Confederations Cup in Brazil to the U21 European Championships in Israel, it is becoming rather clear that the Spanish and Italian national team programs continue to enforce their dominance at or near the top of most predic From the start of the 2013 Confederations Cup in Brazil to the U21 European Championships in Israel, it is becoming rather clear that the Spanish and Italian national team programs continue to enforce their dominance at or near the top of most predictions a year removed from the real thing in 2014, both possessing a blend of veteran technique with serious silverware and a young emerging class of attacking players rivaled only by Germany and Argentina at their best. Joining this edition of the show for his debut to discuss these topics and several others is BeIN Sport commentator and pundit Ian Joy who weighs in these important matters and even opens up on some of his career highlights including his arrival in Major League Soccer from abroad when Real Salt Lake made its first emergence on the national scene and helps us dissect the matter of the England U21 failures given his perspective from his days in the Manchester United youth system. If you like your football and football topics fast and furious we weave in and out of youth team football, what is working and not working on the US National Team under Jurgen Klinsmann and what we might be able to expect not only at this Confederations Cup but also for the Americans who have two very distinct paths ahead of them - three and out which means complete failure or making enough progress to get out of the group stage and take their shot in the knockout rounds. Ian Joy was raised in Scotland, and was a member of the youth academies of both Manchester United and Tranmere Rovers. He began his professional career in Europe, playing for clubs such as Montrose in Scotland, Kidderminster Harriers in England, and Hamburger SV and St Pauli in Germany before playing in 20 MLS games in 2008 with Real Salt Lake as the club reached the MLS playoffs for the first time in the franchise history. Sat, 15 Jun 2013 23:03:00 GMT 36:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP06152013.ian.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/06/15/ian-joy/ Beyond The Pitch It may just be a moment where the mythology of Brazilian football runs aground or becomes reaffirmed as O Selecão opens its only sure-fire national team test as the Confederations Cup opens this weekend against a landscape of questions about readiness to host the world and whether world football has left 2002 World Cup winning manager Luiz Felipe Scolari behind as well. For now Big Phil has reshuffled the deck and has gone with a squad with very little experience on the world stage and seems to be searching for more answers as a center forward to match the skill and creativity of Barcelona-bound prodigy Neymar has yet to surface and even deeper concerns in the defensive gears have yet to have found synergy between the defensive midfield, superstar defender Thiago Silva and the always perplexing David Luiz. We begin with some rather untimely and pressing points raised by Brazil and Botafogo legend Jairzinho who believes Brazil is not ready to win the Confederations Cup title, as the team are still being rebuilt, and that Neymar does not have the required talent around him to deliver top level silverware. We also examine the start of the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A, potential transfers on the horizon beyond the giant splash created between Santos and Barcelona for Neymar, and also the magnificent bit of football history that Ronaldinho might be able to complete should his Atlético Mineiro reach for the stars to secure its first Copa Libertadores, placing the Brazilian legend in the company of the greatest players to ever compete in world football in terms of club and international trophies. We close on the matter of Kaka and whether he will make the key move with a year to go before the World Cup opens in Brazil and put himself in the limelight for the national team or whether he will remain at Real Madrid now that Carlo Ancelotti appears set to rekindle the magic they created at AC Milan. Loads in this episode and Bira Brasil gives a very detailed look at what to expect once football fans descend upon Brazil for this first and last dress rehearsal before opening its doors to the world next summer. It may just be a moment where the mythology of Brazilian football runs aground or becomes reaffirmed as O Selecão opens its only sure-fire national team test as the Confederations Cup opens this weekend against a landscape of questions about readines It may just be a moment where the mythology of Brazilian football runs aground or becomes reaffirmed as O Selecão opens its only sure-fire national team test as the Confederations Cup opens this weekend against a landscape of questions about readiness to host the world and whether world football has left 2002 World Cup winning manager Luiz Felipe Scolari behind as well. For now Big Phil has reshuffled the deck and has gone with a squad with very little experience on the world stage and seems to be searching for more answers as a center forward to match the skill and creativity of Barcelona-bound prodigy Neymar has yet to surface and even deeper concerns in the defensive gears have yet to have found synergy between the defensive midfield, superstar defender Thiago Silva and the always perplexing David Luiz. We begin with some rather untimely and pressing points raised by Brazil and Botafogo legend Jairzinho who believes Brazil is not ready to win the Confederations Cup title, as the team are still being rebuilt, and that Neymar does not have the required talent around him to deliver top level silverware. We also examine the start of the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A, potential transfers on the horizon beyond the giant splash created between Santos and Barcelona for Neymar, and also the magnificent bit of football history that Ronaldinho might be able to complete should his Atlético Mineiro reach for the stars to secure its first Copa Libertadores, placing the Brazilian legend in the company of the greatest players to ever compete in world football in terms of club and international trophies. We close on the matter of Kaka and whether he will make the key move with a year to go before the World Cup opens in Brazil and put himself in the limelight for the national team or whether he will remain at Real Madrid now that Carlo Ancelotti appears set to rekindle the magic they created at AC Milan. Loads in this episode and Bira Brasil gives a very detailed look at what to expect once football fans descend upon Brazil for this first and last dress rehearsal before opening its doors to the world next summer. Wed, 12 Jun 2013 18:03:00 GMT 43:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP06122013.bira.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/06/12/bira-brasil/ Beyond The Pitch A native of Green Bay where the Packers are more known than the sport at which he excelled, Jay DeMerit is a United States international that played in every match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and became the first signing for Vancouver Whitecaps once the franchise joined Major League Soccer after six seasons with Watford FC, where he served as club captain. But that just begins to tell his incredible story of perseverance, mentality and belief as a central defender who appeared in a Chicago Fire PDL team and then made an almost improbable and near impossible jump to English football starting in the lowest organized tiers with Southall FC and landing on trial with Watford FC, where he and the club earned promotion to the English Premier League as winners of the League Championship playoffs after a third-place finish in the standings. His three goals that season included the match-winner in the promotion playoff final at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, on May 21, 2006, defeating Leeds United FC 3-0, with DeMerit given the Man of the Match award. Now, with a couple years removed from the release of a movie that told his rags-to-riches tale of perseverance and dedication, Jay joins us on the show to talk about the players who continue to fall through the cracks, the hopes and dreams that drove him, what that first call from the US National Team meant when it came and whether American soccer can take something from his story, as Jay DeMerit is as much a story about mentality as it is competition and success. A native of Green Bay where the Packers are more known than the sport at which he excelled, Jay DeMerit is a United States international that played in every match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and became the first signing for Vancouver A native of Green Bay where the Packers are more known than the sport at which he excelled, Jay DeMerit is a United States international that played in every match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and became the first signing for Vancouver Whitecaps once the franchise joined Major League Soccer after six seasons with Watford FC, where he served as club captain. But that just begins to tell his incredible story of perseverance, mentality and belief as a central defender who appeared in a Chicago Fire PDL team and then made an almost improbable and near impossible jump to English football starting in the lowest organized tiers with Southall FC and landing on trial with Watford FC, where he and the club earned promotion to the English Premier League as winners of the League Championship playoffs after a third-place finish in the standings. His three goals that season included the match-winner in the promotion playoff final at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, on May 21, 2006, defeating Leeds United FC 3-0, with DeMerit given the Man of the Match award. Now, with a couple years removed from the release of a movie that told his rags-to-riches tale of perseverance and dedication, Jay joins us on the show to talk about the players who continue to fall through the cracks, the hopes and dreams that drove him, what that first call from the US National Team meant when it came and whether American soccer can take something from his story, as Jay DeMerit is as much a story about mentality as it is competition and success. Mon, 10 Jun 2013 14:55:00 GMT 41:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP06102013.jay.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/06/10/jay-demerit/ Beyond The Pitch In the aftermath of a truly historic season for Bayern Munich where a treble was captured and the Bundesliga was truly never in doubt, new concerns are emerging about whether all the positive attention aimed at German football might just be aimed a trailing indicator once digging deeper into the emerging fissures between the Bavarian giants, the rest of the league and a deteriorating relationship with Dortmund. Joining us to discuss these matters and many others is German football correspondent and historian Uli Hesse who helps us examine the fallout from the Mario Goetze sale and the ongoing transfer saga involving Robert Lewandowski who finds himself in serious crosshairs between two clubs where money may not be the object as much as competitive balance and a dearth of replacement options for the Champions League challengers who have built a team that is now under assault from the bigger spending sides. We also examine trailing indicators about what has made German football so successful in recent years and whether those indicators might already be showing cracks and how Borussia Dortmund will have to evolve in terms of the type of players they recruit in the future. We also look into the manager change at Werder Bremen now that Thomas Schaaf has stepped down and Robin Dutt takes the reigns after 14 years in the chair and we close on the matter of the Jogi Low and German national team both in terms of the poor showing in the United States, but also the poor planning by the federation and whether Jupp Heynckes might soften his stance on retirement and take the national team job after Brazil 2014. In the aftermath of a truly historic season for Bayern Munich where a treble was captured and the Bundesliga was truly never in doubt, new concerns are emerging about whether all the positive attention aimed at German football might just be aimed a t In the aftermath of a truly historic season for Bayern Munich where a treble was captured and the Bundesliga was truly never in doubt, new concerns are emerging about whether all the positive attention aimed at German football might just be aimed a trailing indicator once digging deeper into the emerging fissures between the Bavarian giants, the rest of the league and a deteriorating relationship with Dortmund. Joining us to discuss these matters and many others is German football correspondent and historian Uli Hesse who helps us examine the fallout from the Mario Goetze sale and the ongoing transfer saga involving Robert Lewandowski who finds himself in serious crosshairs between two clubs where money may not be the object as much as competitive balance and a dearth of replacement options for the Champions League challengers who have built a team that is now under assault from the bigger spending sides. We also examine trailing indicators about what has made German football so successful in recent years and whether those indicators might already be showing cracks and how Borussia Dortmund will have to evolve in terms of the type of players they recruit in the future. We also look into the manager change at Werder Bremen now that Thomas Schaaf has stepped down and Robin Dutt takes the reigns after 14 years in the chair and we close on the matter of the Jogi Low and German national team both in terms of the poor showing in the United States, but also the poor planning by the federation and whether Jupp Heynckes might soften his stance on retirement and take the national team job after Brazil 2014. Sun, 09 Jun 2013 16:03:00 GMT 31:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP06092013.uli.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/06/09/uli-hesse/ Beyond The Pitch The play by play voice of the New England Revolution Brad Feldman joins Anto and Nico for his first appearance on the show to help us examine where the team is in its second year of transformation under former player Jay Heaps who has performed a near overhaul of this team now poised to make some noise in the closing half of the MLS season. At the center of this discussion might just be the most undervalued roster in Major League Soccer as the club has assembled a tremendous blend of young players and international imports who have decreased the average age of the team sheet while finally turning the ship with several new faces who are now delivering key performances in recent matches with Houston Dynamo and Los Angeles Galaxy. We examine how the pieces have come together, how the organization has continued to deliver strong players in the MLS SuperDraft but has no begun to deliver a number of overseas products like José Goncalves and Saër Sène who continue to make key contributions week after week. We also examine the stadium situation to dispel some of the misplaced criticism on that process to examine the serious difficulties all sports franchises in the Boston area have to endure to bring stadium projects to fruition. Also discussed is the arrival of several important young players, some of whom have arrived from a very under-publicized youth academy that is also delivering players, and how the perceptions surrounding the New England Patriots seem to color everything that the Revolution does in that marketplace. In closing, we revisit the heroic actions of goalkeeper Matt Reis who was on the front lines with the first responders during the Boston Marathon bombing horror that had a difficult and personal story that is only now beginning to reach a path toward conclusion. The play by play voice of the New England Revolution Brad Feldman joins Anto and Nico for his first appearance on the show to help us examine where the team is in its second year of transformation under former player Jay Heaps who has performed a nea The play by play voice of the New England Revolution Brad Feldman joins Anto and Nico for his first appearance on the show to help us examine where the team is in its second year of transformation under former player Jay Heaps who has performed a near overhaul of this team now poised to make some noise in the closing half of the MLS season. At the center of this discussion might just be the most undervalued roster in Major League Soccer as the club has assembled a tremendous blend of young players and international imports who have decreased the average age of the team sheet while finally turning the ship with several new faces who are now delivering key performances in recent matches with Houston Dynamo and Los Angeles Galaxy. We examine how the pieces have come together, how the organization has continued to deliver strong players in the MLS SuperDraft but has no begun to deliver a number of overseas products like José Goncalves and Saër Sène who continue to make key contributions week after week. We also examine the stadium situation to dispel some of the misplaced criticism on that process to examine the serious difficulties all sports franchises in the Boston area have to endure to bring stadium projects to fruition. Also discussed is the arrival of several important young players, some of whom have arrived from a very under-publicized youth academy that is also delivering players, and how the perceptions surrounding the New England Patriots seem to color everything that the Revolution does in that marketplace. In closing, we revisit the heroic actions of goalkeeper Matt Reis who was on the front lines with the first responders during the Boston Marathon bombing horror that had a difficult and personal story that is only now beginning to reach a path toward conclusion. Fri, 07 Jun 2013 18:03:00 GMT 34:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP06072013.feldman.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/06/07/brad-feldman/ Beyond The Pitch While it remains to be determined if a second edition of the New York Cosmos could match a distinguished legacy built 30 years ago, Chief Operating Officer Erik Stover joins the show to give us his impressions of a new Emirates sponsorship and how the marketplace may never be better for the sport in this country as the newest NASL revival is set for its official reboot this summer. This episode is dedicated to the legacy of the NY Cosmos as a sports trailblazer, a modern trend-setter in terms of how teams are assembled and market themselves, but even more importantly a segment dedicated to a new battleground for the sports dollar in the largest sports marketplace in North America is underway with the last soccer club to conquer that city returns with a bold sponsorship and the potential of a new stadium that should help the ownership recapture its magic. We examine the power of this brand and its legacy, the evolving marketplace as soccer must now compete globally, whether the NASL offers the Cosmos more autonomy than MLS simply in principle and whether the arrival of a stadium has to be matched with a television contract to deliver size and scope to the project. Now the Cosmos await the conclusion of a process in which a bid to the state to build a 25,000-seat stadium, retail and hotel complex at the Belmont Racetrack in Elmont, Long Island, just a dozen miles from Flushing Meadows, where MLS is also trying hard to build a $300 million stadium of its own. Naturally, there was a long flirtation between Major League Soccer and the mythology surrounding the Cosmos, but as this episode does illustrate, the club clearly has its own ideas on how it wishes to maintain its own autonomy, identity and rate of growth even though several major questions remain left to be answered, yet Erik Stover clearly believes that time will prove that the Cosmos philosophy and belief will be proven correct with time. While it remains to be determined if a second edition of the New York Cosmos could match a distinguished legacy built 30 years ago, Chief Operating Officer Erik Stover joins the show to give us his impressions of a new Emirates sponsorship and how th While it remains to be determined if a second edition of the New York Cosmos could match a distinguished legacy built 30 years ago, Chief Operating Officer Erik Stover joins the show to give us his impressions of a new Emirates sponsorship and how the marketplace may never be better for the sport in this country as the newest NASL revival is set for its official reboot this summer. This episode is dedicated to the legacy of the NY Cosmos as a sports trailblazer, a modern trend-setter in terms of how teams are assembled and market themselves, but even more importantly a segment dedicated to a new battleground for the sports dollar in the largest sports marketplace in North America is underway with the last soccer club to conquer that city returns with a bold sponsorship and the potential of a new stadium that should help the ownership recapture its magic. We examine the power of this brand and its legacy, the evolving marketplace as soccer must now compete globally, whether the NASL offers the Cosmos more autonomy than MLS simply in principle and whether the arrival of a stadium has to be matched with a television contract to deliver size and scope to the project. Now the Cosmos await the conclusion of a process in which a bid to the state to build a 25,000-seat stadium, retail and hotel complex at the Belmont Racetrack in Elmont, Long Island, just a dozen miles from Flushing Meadows, where MLS is also trying hard to build a $300 million stadium of its own. Naturally, there was a long flirtation between Major League Soccer and the mythology surrounding the Cosmos, but as this episode does illustrate, the club clearly has its own ideas on how it wishes to maintain its own autonomy, identity and rate of growth even though several major questions remain left to be answered, yet Erik Stover clearly believes that time will prove that the Cosmos philosophy and belief will be proven correct with time. Thu, 06 Jun 2013 11:03:00 GMT 28:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP06062013.cosmos.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/06/06/erik-stover/ Beyond The Pitch Now that Everton and Bill Kenwright has determined that Roberto Martinez is the right manager to take the reigns and lead The Toffees forward, one of the true legends of this massive football club joins us on the show to give us his opinions of the move, his view of the David Moyes years and how new expectations must be established from the outset. This is where Everton and Wales goalkeeper legend Neville Southall helps us examine all of these decisions and challenges including what awaits Martinez in terms of bold decisions that will have to be made, what next for Leighton Baines and Marouane Fellaini and a perhaps some young talented players who could provide the depth that was missing a year ago and if low expectations may have been what kept David Moyes from delivering Champions League football toward the tail end of his reign at Goodison Park. We also evaluate the roster itself, what Roberto Martinez needs to do to further solidify the defence and how youth products such as Ross Barkley amd John Stones will have to become key contributors and whether it might just be time to look at Everton Football Club in a different light from the highest rungs of its senior leadership with the full knowledge that Bill Kenwright did a fantastic job in navigating some difficult periods, while also recognizing that new ideas and expectations should accompany this new manager. We also examine the evolution of the goalkeeper position, how the game has changed and has forever changed how the stoppers react due to over-coaching and Neville also helps us evaluate whether the central defender position and removal of the physical element is as critical in this evolution as some would dare suggest. Neville Southall is the owner of a club record 578 appearances in the Football League and Premier League (750 in all competitions), and his honours with Everton include a European Cup Winners Cup medal in 1985, a First Division championship medal in 1984–85 and 1986–87, an FA Cup winners medal in 1984 and 1995, and an FA Charity Shield winners medal in 1984, 1985, 1986, and 1995. A true legend and one of the finest players of his generation including the FWA Footballer of the Year award in 1985. Now that Everton and Bill Kenwright has determined that Roberto Martinez is the right manager to take the reigns and lead The Toffees forward, one of the true legends of this massive football club joins us on the show to give us his opinions of the m Now that Everton and Bill Kenwright has determined that Roberto Martinez is the right manager to take the reigns and lead The Toffees forward, one of the true legends of this massive football club joins us on the show to give us his opinions of the move, his view of the David Moyes years and how new expectations must be established from the outset. This is where Everton and Wales goalkeeper legend Neville Southall helps us examine all of these decisions and challenges including what awaits Martinez in terms of bold decisions that will have to be made, what next for Leighton Baines and Marouane Fellaini and a perhaps some young talented players who could provide the depth that was missing a year ago and if low expectations may have been what kept David Moyes from delivering Champions League football toward the tail end of his reign at Goodison Park. We also evaluate the roster itself, what Roberto Martinez needs to do to further solidify the defence and how youth products such as Ross Barkley amd John Stones will have to become key contributors and whether it might just be time to look at Everton Football Club in a different light from the highest rungs of its senior leadership with the full knowledge that Bill Kenwright did a fantastic job in navigating some difficult periods, while also recognizing that new ideas and expectations should accompany this new manager. We also examine the evolution of the goalkeeper position, how the game has changed and has forever changed how the stoppers react due to over-coaching and Neville also helps us evaluate whether the central defender position and removal of the physical element is as critical in this evolution as some would dare suggest. Neville Southall is the owner of a club record 578 appearances in the Football League and Premier League (750 in all competitions), and his honours with Everton include a European Cup Winners Cup medal in 1985, a First Division championship medal in 1984–85 and 1986–87, an FA Cup winners medal in 1984 and 1995, and an FA Charity Shield winners medal in 1984, 1985, 1986, and 1995. A true legend and one of the finest players of his generation including the FWA Footballer of the Year award in 1985. Wed, 05 Jun 2013 18:03:00 GMT 33:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP06052013.neville.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/06/05/neville-southall/ Beyond The Pitch Against the landscape of another European club football season being drawn to a close in advance of a summer transfer window that opens yet a month away, no bigger stories can be found in the sport at the moment that what has begun to take shape at AS Monaco where French football authorities, a rising enterprise and a challenge to UEFA Financial Fair Play all seem to be gathering as a perfect storm. At the center of this controversy and clash of ideas and possible outcomes is Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev who takes this football club into unchartered territory having already spent upwards of 140 million since promotion from Ligue 2 and looks to challenge not only the boundaries of the break even elements of FFP, but also might just test the patience and willingness of French football authorities who are seeking more than just lip service when it comes to competitive balance. To help us dissect this matter of AS Monaco, the Rybolovlev relationship to the French FA and some very expensive Mendes clients in greater detail is football writer and biographer Philippe Auclair for his third appearance on the show. We examine whether the Monaco advantages are seriously new to French football, unpack the issue of jurisdiction and how the allegations of a lump sum normalization payment continues to evade certainty and how UEFA has a major problem on its hands if AS Monaco is to fit with the established break-even criteria set out by the organization. We also review the recent problems for Leonardo at PSG and how his nine month suspension will likely be upheld and what next for his manager, Carlo Ancelotti, who clearly wants the Real Madrid job as his relationship to the Brazilian sporting director continues its unusual trajectory and whether Zlatan Ibrahimovic might be just as trapped in Paris by economics as he is basic need for his services as the top player in the French league. We also examine the situation at Lyon where rumours surround Clement Grenier as the transfer window opens and if the club president Jean-Michel Aulas can hold on to the talented youngster while unloading more expensive veterans such as Lisandro Lopez and Yoann Gourcuff. Against the landscape of another European club football season being drawn to a close in advance of a summer transfer window that opens yet a month away, no bigger stories can be found in the sport at the moment that what has begun to take shape at A Against the landscape of another European club football season being drawn to a close in advance of a summer transfer window that opens yet a month away, no bigger stories can be found in the sport at the moment that what has begun to take shape at AS Monaco where French football authorities, a rising enterprise and a challenge to UEFA Financial Fair Play all seem to be gathering as a perfect storm. At the center of this controversy and clash of ideas and possible outcomes is Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev who takes this football club into unchartered territory having already spent upwards of 140 million since promotion from Ligue 2 and looks to challenge not only the boundaries of the break even elements of FFP, but also might just test the patience and willingness of French football authorities who are seeking more than just lip service when it comes to competitive balance. To help us dissect this matter of AS Monaco, the Rybolovlev relationship to the French FA and some very expensive Mendes clients in greater detail is football writer and biographer Philippe Auclair for his third appearance on the show. We examine whether the Monaco advantages are seriously new to French football, unpack the issue of jurisdiction and how the allegations of a lump sum normalization payment continues to evade certainty and how UEFA has a major problem on its hands if AS Monaco is to fit with the established break-even criteria set out by the organization. We also review the recent problems for Leonardo at PSG and how his nine month suspension will likely be upheld and what next for his manager, Carlo Ancelotti, who clearly wants the Real Madrid job as his relationship to the Brazilian sporting director continues its unusual trajectory and whether Zlatan Ibrahimovic might be just as trapped in Paris by economics as he is basic need for his services as the top player in the French league. We also examine the situation at Lyon where rumours surround Clement Grenier as the transfer window opens and if the club president Jean-Michel Aulas can hold on to the talented youngster while unloading more expensive veterans such as Lisandro Lopez and Yoann Gourcuff. Mon, 03 Jun 2013 21:55:00 GMT 44:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP06032013.auclair.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/06/03/philippe-auclair/ Beyond The Pitch International commentator Ian Darke joins us for a discussion into the many big managerial moves that have either occurred or are about to occur in the Premier League as Jose Mourinho makes his triumphant return to Chelsea and perhaps an even bigger move of Manuel Pellegrini to Manchester City begin to set off a chain of moves for players this summer. We begin this episode by dissecting recent revelations by Luis Suarez and question what his motivations appear to be now that Real Madrid seems set to spend again now that The Special One is moving back to England. This includes the massive challenges ahead for Jose Mourinho for his second tour at Stamford Bridge as this is a very different football club and Premier League since he last managed in England. We also examine the job ahead for the David Moyes at Manchester United, the evolving nature of the top three with brand new managers and new ideas as well as the unresolved situation at Everton where the degree of difficulty may be the most difficult. Also discussed is move for Mark Hughes at Stoke City and whether Roberto Martinez can fill the shoes of the departed David Moyes. We also examine the issues that have emerged for Jurgen Klinsmann on the heels of a terribly naive performance against Belgium in advance of a very important weekend for US Soccer as Germany takes on the United States at RFK on Sunday. International commentator Ian Darke joins us for a discussion into the many big managerial moves that have either occurred or are about to occur in the Premier League as Jose Mourinho makes his triumphant return to Chelsea and perhaps an even bigger International commentator Ian Darke joins us for a discussion into the many big managerial moves that have either occurred or are about to occur in the Premier League as Jose Mourinho makes his triumphant return to Chelsea and perhaps an even bigger move of Manuel Pellegrini to Manchester City begin to set off a chain of moves for players this summer. We begin this episode by dissecting recent revelations by Luis Suarez and question what his motivations appear to be now that Real Madrid seems set to spend again now that The Special One is moving back to England. This includes the massive challenges ahead for Jose Mourinho for his second tour at Stamford Bridge as this is a very different football club and Premier League since he last managed in England. We also examine the job ahead for the David Moyes at Manchester United, the evolving nature of the top three with brand new managers and new ideas as well as the unresolved situation at Everton where the degree of difficulty may be the most difficult. Also discussed is move for Mark Hughes at Stoke City and whether Roberto Martinez can fill the shoes of the departed David Moyes. We also examine the issues that have emerged for Jurgen Klinsmann on the heels of a terribly naive performance against Belgium in advance of a very important weekend for US Soccer as Germany takes on the United States at RFK on Sunday. Fri, 31 May 2013 18:03:00 GMT 23:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05312013.darke.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/31/ian-darke/ Beyond The Pitch The Premier League season has barely drawn to a close and the madness of the transfer and speculation season is upon us as several big name managers are on the move and the ripples can be felt all over Europe as Jose Mourinho looks to seal his return to Stamford Bridge and Real Madrid looks to acquire the PFA Player of The Year. We examine the new challenges for The Special One awaiting him the second time around at Chelsea Football Club, why he might have to re-invent himself to a degree as both the Premier League and Chelsea are very different than what he once left behind. Also in view is the transition already underway at Manchester United now that David Moyes has moved into the position amid early backroom changes, his previous club Everton Football Club which appears to be deepening its search with Roberto Martinez edging toward the surface as a favorite and whether Arsenal might just have the biggest transfer season of recent seasons just ahead as three Premier League superpowers will all deliver spending power and new managers in advance of the 2013-14 campaign. We also examine the changes and the addition by subtraction exercise that appears to be Roberto Mancini for Manuel Pelligrini and how that change might alone be the tide that rises all the boats for Manchester City in concert with only targeted spending once the new manager arrives. Also discussed is the matter of Gareth Bale and whether he will resist overtures from Real Madrid this summer as the Spanish giants look to counter the arrival of Neymar at Barcelona after securing 100 points and taking back a Spanish title. The Premier League season has barely drawn to a close and the madness of the transfer and speculation season is upon us as several big name managers are on the move and the ripples can be felt all over Europe as Jose Mourinho looks to seal his return The Premier League season has barely drawn to a close and the madness of the transfer and speculation season is upon us as several big name managers are on the move and the ripples can be felt all over Europe as Jose Mourinho looks to seal his return to Stamford Bridge and Real Madrid looks to acquire the PFA Player of The Year. We examine the new challenges for The Special One awaiting him the second time around at Chelsea Football Club, why he might have to re-invent himself to a degree as both the Premier League and Chelsea are very different than what he once left behind. Also in view is the transition already underway at Manchester United now that David Moyes has moved into the position amid early backroom changes, his previous club Everton Football Club which appears to be deepening its search with Roberto Martinez edging toward the surface as a favorite and whether Arsenal might just have the biggest transfer season of recent seasons just ahead as three Premier League superpowers will all deliver spending power and new managers in advance of the 2013-14 campaign. We also examine the changes and the addition by subtraction exercise that appears to be Roberto Mancini for Manuel Pelligrini and how that change might alone be the tide that rises all the boats for Manchester City in concert with only targeted spending once the new manager arrives. Also discussed is the matter of Gareth Bale and whether he will resist overtures from Real Madrid this summer as the Spanish giants look to counter the arrival of Neymar at Barcelona after securing 100 points and taking back a Spanish title. Thu, 30 May 2013 21:03:00 GMT 28:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05302013.robbie.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/30/robbie-earle/ Beyond The Pitch The biggest soap opera of the summer is already underway in the calcio capital city of Milan as Mount Silvio Berlusconi has erupted on Max Allegri while Adriano Galliani tries to put out the fires or is is usher in yet another Rossoneri legend in Clarence Seedorf now that top three was finally captured by AC Milan on the final day of the season. Joining to discuss the car crash seasons inside Milanese football is commentator Owen Neilson who has a front row seat to the dreadful season for Internazionale who has just removed one young manager and now has delivered Walter Mazzarri to turn the page and maybe change course once again, and within the analysis we explore the key question about Inter and that is whether the club will demonstrate enough patience to consider the mode and operations behind a successful rebuild before actually going about the process of doing so with a decreasing set of resources. Also discussed here is all the drama, outrage and controversy surrounding Max Allegri at AC Milan and how Berlusconi appears to have entered a strange process of divorce with a manager he no longer wants while resisting second thoughts about a former player who he wants as his successor but must also consider the mode and resources to ensure his success in Clarence Seedorf. We also examine the statistics, have a debate on whether Silvio Berlusconi is holding this situation over the head of AC Milan and if this is just one more example where the controversial owner always finds a way to demand his imprint on the football club. We also examine the situation of the deciding Siena-Milan match where everything was decided, separate what was an inept match official and even perhaps what might have been an enemy of my enemy exercise between the Siena and Fiorentina football clubs. We also examine the situation at Fiorentina this season, the ongoing Serie B playoffs between Empoli and Livorno, whether Verona arriving in Serie A also delivers another problem in the fight against racism in Italian stadiums and what the arrival of Rafa Benitez means at Napoli where the first question must be whether Edinson Cavani will stay on and if the Spanish tactician is the man to deliver a bit of European success for a group of supporters and an owner in De Laurentiis desperate to reach a new level. The biggest soap opera of the summer is already underway in the calcio capital city of Milan as Mount Silvio Berlusconi has erupted on Max Allegri while Adriano Galliani tries to put out the fires or is is usher in yet another Rossoneri legend in Cla The biggest soap opera of the summer is already underway in the calcio capital city of Milan as Mount Silvio Berlusconi has erupted on Max Allegri while Adriano Galliani tries to put out the fires or is is usher in yet another Rossoneri legend in Clarence Seedorf now that top three was finally captured by AC Milan on the final day of the season. Joining to discuss the car crash seasons inside Milanese football is commentator Owen Neilson who has a front row seat to the dreadful season for Internazionale who has just removed one young manager and now has delivered Walter Mazzarri to turn the page and maybe change course once again, and within the analysis we explore the key question about Inter and that is whether the club will demonstrate enough patience to consider the mode and operations behind a successful rebuild before actually going about the process of doing so with a decreasing set of resources. Also discussed here is all the drama, outrage and controversy surrounding Max Allegri at AC Milan and how Berlusconi appears to have entered a strange process of divorce with a manager he no longer wants while resisting second thoughts about a former player who he wants as his successor but must also consider the mode and resources to ensure his success in Clarence Seedorf. We also examine the statistics, have a debate on whether Silvio Berlusconi is holding this situation over the head of AC Milan and if this is just one more example where the controversial owner always finds a way to demand his imprint on the football club. We also examine the situation of the deciding Siena-Milan match where everything was decided, separate what was an inept match official and even perhaps what might have been an enemy of my enemy exercise between the Siena and Fiorentina football clubs. We also examine the situation at Fiorentina this season, the ongoing Serie B playoffs between Empoli and Livorno, whether Verona arriving in Serie A also delivers another problem in the fight against racism in Italian stadiums and what the arrival of Rafa Benitez means at Napoli where the first question must be whether Edinson Cavani will stay on and if the Spanish tactician is the man to deliver a bit of European success for a group of supporters and an owner in De Laurentiis desperate to reach a new level. Tue, 28 May 2013 16:03:00 GMT 41:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05282013.owen.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/28/owen-neilson/ Beyond The Pitch In the afterglow of a tremendous victory by Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final over city rivals, Gabriele Marcotti joins us to discuss the big questions now facing a number of Serie A clubs this summer starting with AS Roma who may not just be in search of a new manager but also a replacement for Franco Baldini in the event that owner James Pallotta accepts his resignation before moving on to Tottenham. This also opens the door to a move for Max Allegri from AC Milan to AS Roma to replace an interim manager who was on assignment since replacing Zdenek Zeman earlier this season. We also discuss the arrival of Rafa Benitez at Napoli after his interim stint at Chelsea FC where he found renewed success in Europe and the move of Walter Mazzarri to Internazionale who still have massive questions to address about the direction of this squad and whether Marco Branca will be there to deliver the pieces to a manager known for using veteran players, putting Inter at odds length with a NextGen Series team that has not been able to breakthrough to the senior team since Andrea Stramaccioni won that title. Also discussed here is the prospects of year two at Fiorentina under Vincenzo Montella in year two with Stefan Jovetic and Adem Ljajic concerns finally addressed, whether AC Milan and Silvio Berlusconi can push the paste back into the tube over their fractured relationship, a first look at the Neymar transfer to Barcelona in terms of expectations and evolving perceptions, and a very deep look into the situation at AS Monaco where a combination of taxation and competitive normalization factors are added one more massive concern about what Financial Fair Play is there to ultimately protect. Is UEFA in the business of keeping the superclubs are arms length yet one more time to prevent a Super League from emerging because it is very clear that it has become near impossible to find a standardization point upon which competitive balance could ever be assured without some form of revenue sharing that would ultimately spell doom for the very domestic football being held together by an oligarchy of football clubs in clear control. In the afterglow of a tremendous victory by Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final over city rivals, Gabriele Marcotti joins us to discuss the big questions now facing a number of Serie A clubs this summer starting with AS Roma who may not just be in search In the afterglow of a tremendous victory by Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final over city rivals, Gabriele Marcotti joins us to discuss the big questions now facing a number of Serie A clubs this summer starting with AS Roma who may not just be in search of a new manager but also a replacement for Franco Baldini in the event that owner James Pallotta accepts his resignation before moving on to Tottenham. This also opens the door to a move for Max Allegri from AC Milan to AS Roma to replace an interim manager who was on assignment since replacing Zdenek Zeman earlier this season. We also discuss the arrival of Rafa Benitez at Napoli after his interim stint at Chelsea FC where he found renewed success in Europe and the move of Walter Mazzarri to Internazionale who still have massive questions to address about the direction of this squad and whether Marco Branca will be there to deliver the pieces to a manager known for using veteran players, putting Inter at odds length with a NextGen Series team that has not been able to breakthrough to the senior team since Andrea Stramaccioni won that title. Also discussed here is the prospects of year two at Fiorentina under Vincenzo Montella in year two with Stefan Jovetic and Adem Ljajic concerns finally addressed, whether AC Milan and Silvio Berlusconi can push the paste back into the tube over their fractured relationship, a first look at the Neymar transfer to Barcelona in terms of expectations and evolving perceptions, and a very deep look into the situation at AS Monaco where a combination of taxation and competitive normalization factors are added one more massive concern about what Financial Fair Play is there to ultimately protect. Is UEFA in the business of keeping the superclubs are arms length yet one more time to prevent a Super League from emerging because it is very clear that it has become near impossible to find a standardization point upon which competitive balance could ever be assured without some form of revenue sharing that would ultimately spell doom for the very domestic football being held together by an oligarchy of football clubs in clear control. Sun, 26 May 2013 18:03:00 GMT 36:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05262013.gab.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/26/gabriele-marcotti/ Beyond The Pitch This two part episode asks two very serious questions about the future for Landon Donovan with the US National Team and whether the launch date to announce the arrival of NYCFC was as big a PR and media success in New York City that it needed to be given the high stakes partner that Major League Soccer acquired in the name and shape of the New York Yankees. Part one looks at the devolution surrounding the Jurgen Klinsmann relationship with the former star player for the United States and whether Landon Donovan being left out at this stage actually speaks to whether he really has a future with the national team and if being the face of US Soccer for years truly has merit in the bigger picture when compared to the facts and other celebrity athletes in the United States. The conversation gets rather hot and heavy once we begin to dissect the choices that Landon Donovan made in his career and we begin to evaluate what exactly the role of face of the US Soccer really means in the bigger picture. Has it all finally come to a head and a conclusion for Donovan and Brazil 2014, it sure seems so unless Jurgen Klinsmann wants to do the once unthinkable and call up Landon Donovan for the Gold Cup qualifiers as a test run. Part two is an honest look at the NYCFC announcement for Major League Soccer on two fronts - the murky considerations and outcome in the sports media capital of the United States and the significantly huge developments for the league overall having now secured its highest franchise fee to date in this association between Manchester City Football Club and the New York Yankees. There are still questions to be answered about conquering New York come 2015 once the team hits the pitch, but there are even more substantive discussions that need to take place now that the 20th MLS franchise has been locked in place and questions surrounding other MLS properties like Chivas USA need to be sorted. This two part episode asks two very serious questions about the future for Landon Donovan with the US National Team and whether the launch date to announce the arrival of NYCFC was as big a PR and media success in New York City that it needed to be g This two part episode asks two very serious questions about the future for Landon Donovan with the US National Team and whether the launch date to announce the arrival of NYCFC was as big a PR and media success in New York City that it needed to be given the high stakes partner that Major League Soccer acquired in the name and shape of the New York Yankees. Part one looks at the devolution surrounding the Jurgen Klinsmann relationship with the former star player for the United States and whether Landon Donovan being left out at this stage actually speaks to whether he really has a future with the national team and if being the face of US Soccer for years truly has merit in the bigger picture when compared to the facts and other celebrity athletes in the United States. The conversation gets rather hot and heavy once we begin to dissect the choices that Landon Donovan made in his career and we begin to evaluate what exactly the role of face of the US Soccer really means in the bigger picture. Has it all finally come to a head and a conclusion for Donovan and Brazil 2014, it sure seems so unless Jurgen Klinsmann wants to do the once unthinkable and call up Landon Donovan for the Gold Cup qualifiers as a test run. Part two is an honest look at the NYCFC announcement for Major League Soccer on two fronts - the murky considerations and outcome in the sports media capital of the United States and the significantly huge developments for the league overall having now secured its highest franchise fee to date in this association between Manchester City Football Club and the New York Yankees. There are still questions to be answered about conquering New York come 2015 once the team hits the pitch, but there are even more substantive discussions that need to take place now that the 20th MLS franchise has been locked in place and questions surrounding other MLS properties like Chivas USA need to be sorted. Wed, 22 May 2013 19:03:00 GMT 40:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05232013.mls.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/22/inside-mls/ Beyond The Pitch ESPN commentator and US Soccer legend Alexi Lalas joins us for his second appearance on the show to review the important week that was for Major League Soccer as NYCFC enters the league as the 20th franchise for a record transfer fee of 100 million while bringing together two massive sports brands in the New York Yankees and Manchester City Football Club. We examine a number of different angles in this move, how some of the early lines are being drawn and whether the concept of extending an established European brand to the New York marketplace defies the sporting reputation of the biggest sports city in the United States. We discuss the appreciation of those franchise fees, what it means in relationship to the issues with Chivas USA and even perhaps where David Beckham fits into this puzzle with an idea that perhaps Major League Soccer may attempt to move into a total of 24 teams in the distant future. We also discuss the matter of Landon Donovan not being selected by Jurgen Klinsmann at this juncture of World Cup qualification and how the relationship between the player and the US National Team coach continues on an downward spiral the closer we get to Brazil 2014. We also examine the issue of players leaving their MLS clubs during the season for meaningless international friendlies abroad given the decision by LA Galaxy to release Robbie Keane, two early season surprise packages in FC Dallas and Montreal Impact who are collecting two points per match to date in 2013 and Alexi gives us his take on the Bayern Munich-Borussia Dortmund Champions League final. ESPN commentator and US Soccer legend Alexi Lalas joins us for his second appearance on the show to review the important week that was for Major League Soccer as NYCFC enters the league as the 20th franchise for a record transfer fee of 100 million w ESPN commentator and US Soccer legend Alexi Lalas joins us for his second appearance on the show to review the important week that was for Major League Soccer as NYCFC enters the league as the 20th franchise for a record transfer fee of 100 million while bringing together two massive sports brands in the New York Yankees and Manchester City Football Club. We examine a number of different angles in this move, how some of the early lines are being drawn and whether the concept of extending an established European brand to the New York marketplace defies the sporting reputation of the biggest sports city in the United States. We discuss the appreciation of those franchise fees, what it means in relationship to the issues with Chivas USA and even perhaps where David Beckham fits into this puzzle with an idea that perhaps Major League Soccer may attempt to move into a total of 24 teams in the distant future. We also discuss the matter of Landon Donovan not being selected by Jurgen Klinsmann at this juncture of World Cup qualification and how the relationship between the player and the US National Team coach continues on an downward spiral the closer we get to Brazil 2014. We also examine the issue of players leaving their MLS clubs during the season for meaningless international friendlies abroad given the decision by LA Galaxy to release Robbie Keane, two early season surprise packages in FC Dallas and Montreal Impact who are collecting two points per match to date in 2013 and Alexi gives us his take on the Bayern Munich-Borussia Dortmund Champions League final. Fri, 24 May 2013 22:03:00 GMT 25:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05242013.alexi.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/24/alexi-lalas/ Beyond The Pitch Matt Lawrence is now both a semi professional footballer and media pundit, but in years past went about his business like most footballers and was even fortunate enough to captain that Millwall side that reached the 2004 FA Cup Final against a Manchester United team that featured the likes of Giggs, Keane, Ronaldo and Van Nistelrooy as well as play for Fulham, Crystal Palace, Gillingham and Wycombe. This is the kind of discussion about football that opens the window on a life inside the game and Matt offers us some great insights into how the sport works for the bulk of the athletes who dare dream to play this game, what often awaits at each destination and then finally preparing for life after the game which may even include work os a media pundit or the big decision to give it a try in the managerial ranks, which seems to be an increasingly less likely option today for British managers throughout the sport. We also explore his days at Crystal Palace under Neil Warnock, playing against a once-in-a-generation player like Cristiano Ronaldo, the experience of competing against a giant in an FA Cup Final, what distinguishes a Premier League and Championship player and why so few former players want to go into management. Matt also appears on talkSPORT with their international coverage as well as having appeared on The BBC and Sky TV. Matt Lawrence is now both a semi professional footballer and media pundit, but in years past went about his business like most footballers and was even fortunate enough to captain that Millwall side that reached the 2004 FA Cup Final against a Manche Matt Lawrence is now both a semi professional footballer and media pundit, but in years past went about his business like most footballers and was even fortunate enough to captain that Millwall side that reached the 2004 FA Cup Final against a Manchester United team that featured the likes of Giggs, Keane, Ronaldo and Van Nistelrooy as well as play for Fulham, Crystal Palace, Gillingham and Wycombe. This is the kind of discussion about football that opens the window on a life inside the game and Matt offers us some great insights into how the sport works for the bulk of the athletes who dare dream to play this game, what often awaits at each destination and then finally preparing for life after the game which may even include work os a media pundit or the big decision to give it a try in the managerial ranks, which seems to be an increasingly less likely option today for British managers throughout the sport. We also explore his days at Crystal Palace under Neil Warnock, playing against a once-in-a-generation player like Cristiano Ronaldo, the experience of competing against a giant in an FA Cup Final, what distinguishes a Premier League and Championship player and why so few former players want to go into management. Matt also appears on talkSPORT with their international coverage as well as having appeared on The BBC and Sky TV. Mon, 20 May 2013 18:55:00 GMT 31:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05202013.matt.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/20/matt-lawrence/ Beyond The Pitch As the Premier League season draws to an end more talking points emerge in the matters of David Moyes and Roberto Mancini as more information and analysis comes to light in terms of one transition to Manchester United and another perplexing end to a Manchester City manager tenure after securing the club its most successful run in many years. To help us through these matters and several others is Daniel Taylor, Chief Football Writer with The Guardian, who helps us break down the David Moyes appointment with greater focus on the bigger picture, whether the glare of Sir Alex Ferguson as both a package for sponsors and a reliable crutch internally makes a great deal more sense longer term and if his hire restores a sense of sanity to the Premier League for the reasons described by Gary Neville of late. Also in focus here is the reason for the early sacking of Roberto Mancini at Manchester City and why it ultimately had to be done not just for reasons once explored during the final days of Mark Hughes, but also because the club needs a new start after a season in which more players regressed in year two than moved ahead. We also discuss the matter of Guy Poyet at Brighton, questions about Roberto Martinez at Wigan and to what his tenure speaks and then we close on the retirement of another football icon, David Beckham, whose legacy inside the game is divided between football and actual football celebrity. As the Premier League season draws to an end more talking points emerge in the matters of David Moyes and Roberto Mancini as more information and analysis comes to light in terms of one transition to Manchester United and another perplexing end to a As the Premier League season draws to an end more talking points emerge in the matters of David Moyes and Roberto Mancini as more information and analysis comes to light in terms of one transition to Manchester United and another perplexing end to a Manchester City manager tenure after securing the club its most successful run in many years. To help us through these matters and several others is Daniel Taylor, Chief Football Writer with The Guardian, who helps us break down the David Moyes appointment with greater focus on the bigger picture, whether the glare of Sir Alex Ferguson as both a package for sponsors and a reliable crutch internally makes a great deal more sense longer term and if his hire restores a sense of sanity to the Premier League for the reasons described by Gary Neville of late. Also in focus here is the reason for the early sacking of Roberto Mancini at Manchester City and why it ultimately had to be done not just for reasons once explored during the final days of Mark Hughes, but also because the club needs a new start after a season in which more players regressed in year two than moved ahead. We also discuss the matter of Guy Poyet at Brighton, questions about Roberto Martinez at Wigan and to what his tenure speaks and then we close on the retirement of another football icon, David Beckham, whose legacy inside the game is divided between football and actual football celebrity. Sun, 19 May 2013 16:03:00 GMT 27:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05192013.taylor.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/19/daniel-taylor/ Beyond The Pitch Daniel Geey of the Competition and EU Regulatory Law Group at Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP makes another appearance on the show to take an early look at the challenge placed before the EU in the matter of UEFA Financial Fair Play, which gives the European authority to exclude clubs from its most lucrative competitions. At the core of this process is Jean-Louis Dupont, who helped Belgian footballer Jean-Marc Bosman change European law in 1995, and changed forever the relationship players have to their football clubs, domestic leagues and even supporters throughout Europe as it was a landmark case altering the sport. Now while the rules are designed to keep big spending clubs from reaching past their means, at least in principle, what Dupont will be arguing is that Article 57 of UEFA Financial Fair Play, or the break-even component, will infringe upon several EU fundamental rights of freedom of capital, workers and services, acting through either intended or unintended means to create a deflationary effect on player wages and revenue for agent fees and salaries. Daniel is here to shed some fascinating light on not only the procedural elements that will now be involved, but also brings some real world experience to bear when evaluating the merits of this case against both precedent and potentially exploitive points by counsel on both sides of the aisle. We examine once again the drawbridge net effect of FFP and whether the clear objectives of these regulations can offset the arguments placed before the commission, noting that existing and redefined legislation in the area of overdue payables with respect to other clubs, players and social or tax authorities were left unresolved. We also examine the roles of player agents and player associations as key stakeholders as it is now widely believed that more interested parties might be quick to include themselves in this action as well. Daniel Geey of the Competition and EU Regulatory Law Group at Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP makes another appearance on the show to take an early look at the challenge placed before the EU in the matter of UEFA Financial Fair Play, which gives the Euro Daniel Geey of the Competition and EU Regulatory Law Group at Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP makes another appearance on the show to take an early look at the challenge placed before the EU in the matter of UEFA Financial Fair Play, which gives the European authority to exclude clubs from its most lucrative competitions. At the core of this process is Jean-Louis Dupont, who helped Belgian footballer Jean-Marc Bosman change European law in 1995, and changed forever the relationship players have to their football clubs, domestic leagues and even supporters throughout Europe as it was a landmark case altering the sport. Now while the rules are designed to keep big spending clubs from reaching past their means, at least in principle, what Dupont will be arguing is that Article 57 of UEFA Financial Fair Play, or the break-even component, will infringe upon several EU fundamental rights of freedom of capital, workers and services, acting through either intended or unintended means to create a deflationary effect on player wages and revenue for agent fees and salaries. Daniel is here to shed some fascinating light on not only the procedural elements that will now be involved, but also brings some real world experience to bear when evaluating the merits of this case against both precedent and potentially exploitive points by counsel on both sides of the aisle. We examine once again the drawbridge net effect of FFP and whether the clear objectives of these regulations can offset the arguments placed before the commission, noting that existing and redefined legislation in the area of overdue payables with respect to other clubs, players and social or tax authorities were left unresolved. We also examine the roles of player agents and player associations as key stakeholders as it is now widely believed that more interested parties might be quick to include themselves in this action as well. Fri, 17 May 2013 19:03:00 GMT 37:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05172013.geey.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/17/daniel-geey/ Beyond The Pitch Portland Timbers and Jamaica international striker Ryan Johnson joins us on the show to discuss his return to a very familiar setting in his playing career and explains the stunning phenomenon that has become Jeld-Wen Field, Timbers Army and what is now considered one of the top spectacles in all of North American sports. Since being drafted in the third round, 26th overall, by Real Salt Lake in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft, Ryan has landed on an emerging group under first year coach Caleb Porter as the Timbers have reached a nine game unbeaten streak and are just now becoming something of a force in the Western Conference. We also explore how Porter motivates and pushes this group so effectively, a strong and underrated group of players who have adapted to one another quite well and the truly daunting task that lays before Jamaica over the next international break in June with three matches against the iron of CONCACAF is on tap, hosting Mexico and the United States in Kingston, followed by a trip to San Pedro Sula to take on Honduras for a real make or break moment for the 2014 qualification campaign. We also explore the differences between players who ply their trade in Europe versus the players who play their club football here in the CONCACAF region and reflect on recapturing the magic that saw Jamaica beat the United States for the first time in its history after bouncing back from an early deficit to hand Jurgen Klinsmann and his squad a 2-1 defeat at National Stadium in CONCACAF World Cup qualifying. We also examine the evolving nature of CONCACAF, why there have been so many shock results so early and whether the emergence of CONCACAF players both overseas and within Major League Soccer has removed the mystery and leveled the pack in this qualification cycle. Get to know more about Ryan Johnson as an emerging force with Portland Timbers and a key moment for Jamaica at a key crossroads in its attempt to reach Brazil in 2014. Portland Timbers and Jamaica international striker Ryan Johnson joins us on the show to discuss his return to a very familiar setting in his playing career and explains the stunning phenomenon that has become Jeld-Wen Field, Timbers Army and what is Portland Timbers and Jamaica international striker Ryan Johnson joins us on the show to discuss his return to a very familiar setting in his playing career and explains the stunning phenomenon that has become Jeld-Wen Field, Timbers Army and what is now considered one of the top spectacles in all of North American sports. Since being drafted in the third round, 26th overall, by Real Salt Lake in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft, Ryan has landed on an emerging group under first year coach Caleb Porter as the Timbers have reached a nine game unbeaten streak and are just now becoming something of a force in the Western Conference. We also explore how Porter motivates and pushes this group so effectively, a strong and underrated group of players who have adapted to one another quite well and the truly daunting task that lays before Jamaica over the next international break in June with three matches against the iron of CONCACAF is on tap, hosting Mexico and the United States in Kingston, followed by a trip to San Pedro Sula to take on Honduras for a real make or break moment for the 2014 qualification campaign. We also explore the differences between players who ply their trade in Europe versus the players who play their club football here in the CONCACAF region and reflect on recapturing the magic that saw Jamaica beat the United States for the first time in its history after bouncing back from an early deficit to hand Jurgen Klinsmann and his squad a 2-1 defeat at National Stadium in CONCACAF World Cup qualifying. We also examine the evolving nature of CONCACAF, why there have been so many shock results so early and whether the emergence of CONCACAF players both overseas and within Major League Soccer has removed the mystery and leveled the pack in this qualification cycle. Get to know more about Ryan Johnson as an emerging force with Portland Timbers and a key moment for Jamaica at a key crossroads in its attempt to reach Brazil in 2014. Thu, 16 May 2013 21:03:00 GMT 22:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05162013.ryan.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/16/ryan-johnson/ Beyond The Pitch Now that the David Moyes era is about to come to a full close at Stamford Bridge next Sunday, Everton legend and club ambassador Graeme Sharp joins us to discuss the massive challenge that sits before chairman Bill Kenwright as he looks to replace an important manager as many economic and competitive challenges enter the frame. We examine some important factors including whether David Moyes might look to move some backroom staff and key players as he moves over to Old Trafford, what kind of factors that the board would be looking for in a replacement and a quick look at a squad that appears to be aging in several spots that need immediate attention. We also gauge strength of the younger players and the youth system and whether there is help there, whether Everton might be prepared to challenge convention by reaching beyond its British roots for the successor to David Moyes and whether managers currently in the Premier League might offer the right mix of experience and guile to get the task of a very busy summer done right. Graeme Sharp is not only a great friend of the show, but also is the owner of two England First Division titles and an FA Cup with the Toffees and might just be the finest and classiest club ambassador out there today. Now that the David Moyes era is about to come to a full close at Stamford Bridge next Sunday, Everton legend and club ambassador Graeme Sharp joins us to discuss the massive challenge that sits before chairman Bill Kenwright as he looks to replace an Now that the David Moyes era is about to come to a full close at Stamford Bridge next Sunday, Everton legend and club ambassador Graeme Sharp joins us to discuss the massive challenge that sits before chairman Bill Kenwright as he looks to replace an important manager as many economic and competitive challenges enter the frame. We examine some important factors including whether David Moyes might look to move some backroom staff and key players as he moves over to Old Trafford, what kind of factors that the board would be looking for in a replacement and a quick look at a squad that appears to be aging in several spots that need immediate attention. We also gauge strength of the younger players and the youth system and whether there is help there, whether Everton might be prepared to challenge convention by reaching beyond its British roots for the successor to David Moyes and whether managers currently in the Premier League might offer the right mix of experience and guile to get the task of a very busy summer done right. Graeme Sharp is not only a great friend of the show, but also is the owner of two England First Division titles and an FA Cup with the Toffees and might just be the finest and classiest club ambassador out there today. Mon, 13 May 2013 21:55:00 GMT 15:30 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05132013.sharp.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/13/graeme-sharp/ Beyond The Pitch Joining us from Tokyo, Japan is grassroots guru, Tom Byer, known as Tomsan all over the world, as his methods for teaching children technique has now hit a standard and scope once thought unimaginable just several short years ago and places him as the most influential voice in youth development worldwide with a next generation digital platform. Today, Tom is leading China back on the long and winding road to football recovery in concert with a CSF Program was created in 2009, which has brought together the Ministries for Education and Sport for a 10 year program which targets Chinese young people to get involved in the game at unprecedented levels and looks to identify elite players as a downstream step. Meanwhile much has gone on in the world of Tomsan Nation and this includes his continued work in Japan and China along with opening a whole list of T3 Academies in markets such as Indonesia, India, Australia and China. T3 and Tomsan has also launched its 3D Apps in 42 Countries throughout Asia via the iTunes Stores to a whole new generation of kids to better serve and deliver on the promise of more predictable and failure-free coaching and instruction. We also discuss a new project with Aya Miyama, National Team Captain for the Japanese women, who Tom trained from her earliest contact with organized training in her country. We also discuss the sleeping giant of Southeast Asia, Indonesia, and discuss a recent visit to the jungle there for a week to describe the football mad nature of what could be one the next rising powers if only authorities and the marketplace could harness its potential. There is just loads in the episode, but it always begins with the simple yet brilliant principles - teach kids technique, teach it to them as early as possible and encourage them to be the best they can be. Tom Byer might just be the fastest rising grassroots and youth development superstar on the planet and his new work bridging technology with top level coaching could easily position him as the next big brand that parents, players and federations turn to in the coming years. Simply put, Tom Byer is the man for the new digital frontier of youth development. Joining us from Tokyo, Japan is grassroots guru, Tom Byer, known as Tomsan all over the world, as his methods for teaching children technique has now hit a standard and scope once thought unimaginable just several short years ago and places him as th Joining us from Tokyo, Japan is grassroots guru, Tom Byer, known as Tomsan all over the world, as his methods for teaching children technique has now hit a standard and scope once thought unimaginable just several short years ago and places him as the most influential voice in youth development worldwide with a next generation digital platform. Today, Tom is leading China back on the long and winding road to football recovery in concert with a CSF Program was created in 2009, which has brought together the Ministries for Education and Sport for a 10 year program which targets Chinese young people to get involved in the game at unprecedented levels and looks to identify elite players as a downstream step. Meanwhile much has gone on in the world of Tomsan Nation and this includes his continued work in Japan and China along with opening a whole list of T3 Academies in markets such as Indonesia, India, Australia and China. T3 and Tomsan has also launched its 3D Apps in 42 Countries throughout Asia via the iTunes Stores to a whole new generation of kids to better serve and deliver on the promise of more predictable and failure-free coaching and instruction. We also discuss a new project with Aya Miyama, National Team Captain for the Japanese women, who Tom trained from her earliest contact with organized training in her country. We also discuss the sleeping giant of Southeast Asia, Indonesia, and discuss a recent visit to the jungle there for a week to describe the football mad nature of what could be one the next rising powers if only authorities and the marketplace could harness its potential. There is just loads in the episode, but it always begins with the simple yet brilliant principles - teach kids technique, teach it to them as early as possible and encourage them to be the best they can be. Tom Byer might just be the fastest rising grassroots and youth development superstar on the planet and his new work bridging technology with top level coaching could easily position him as the next big brand that parents, players and federations turn to in the coming years. Simply put, Tom Byer is the man for the new digital frontier of youth development. Tue, 14 May 2013 17:03:00 GMT 47:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05142013.tomsan.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/14/tom-byer/ Beyond The Pitch As a special tribute to the great Sir Alex Ferguson on the heels of receiving his final Premier League title on Sunday, Bob Cass of the Mail on Sunday gives us his thoughts not just on the greatest British manager and what led to this announcement, but also takes a look ahead with us in terms of the process for David Moyes at Manchester United. Obviously a landmark appointment in football history at one the biggest clubs in the world game, we try to get underneath the decision making process for David Moyes, what his first moves might in fact be, what awaits him in the face and shape of Wayne Rooney after having a fall out in the past at Everton, whether Moyes will be his own man and rebuild the club in his image and whether the media is overplaying the need to win a trophy quickly in his first season with the club. In part two, Phil and Anto work through many issues including the job Sir Alex turned in over his 26 seasons at the club, how in many way he over-performed given the type of approach he took in later years up against major spenders in Chelsea and Manchester City and how those values in the rear view mirror became even more important in this transition to David Moyes in the first place. We examine the impact of Sir Alex on the football club, the massive shadow he cast over everything at Old Trafford and begin to unpack the serious challenges that will await the new manager in the shape of an evolving Premier League, a rapidly changing marketplace for both top line and youth players, and that is before even discussing the commercial and competitive realities of doing battle with the elite clubs of the Champions League. As a special tribute to the great Sir Alex Ferguson on the heels of receiving his final Premier League title on Sunday, Bob Cass of the Mail on Sunday gives us his thoughts not just on the greatest British manager and what led to this announcement, b As a special tribute to the great Sir Alex Ferguson on the heels of receiving his final Premier League title on Sunday, Bob Cass of the Mail on Sunday gives us his thoughts not just on the greatest British manager and what led to this announcement, but also takes a look ahead with us in terms of the process for David Moyes at Manchester United. Obviously a landmark appointment in football history at one the biggest clubs in the world game, we try to get underneath the decision making process for David Moyes, what his first moves might in fact be, what awaits him in the face and shape of Wayne Rooney after having a fall out in the past at Everton, whether Moyes will be his own man and rebuild the club in his image and whether the media is overplaying the need to win a trophy quickly in his first season with the club. In part two, Phil and Anto work through many issues including the job Sir Alex turned in over his 26 seasons at the club, how in many way he over-performed given the type of approach he took in later years up against major spenders in Chelsea and Manchester City and how those values in the rear view mirror became even more important in this transition to David Moyes in the first place. We examine the impact of Sir Alex on the football club, the massive shadow he cast over everything at Old Trafford and begin to unpack the serious challenges that will await the new manager in the shape of an evolving Premier League, a rapidly changing marketplace for both top line and youth players, and that is before even discussing the commercial and competitive realities of doing battle with the elite clubs of the Champions League. Sun, 12 May 2013 18:03:00 GMT 43:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05122013.cass.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/12/bob-cass/ Beyond The Pitch One of the fine, rising color commentators in Major League Soccer, former San Jose and current Earthquakes broadcaster Kelly Gray gives us a first up close look at the 2012 Supporters Shield winners who have brought in a number of new players who could feature prominently after a campaign that ended abruptly in the Western Conference playoffs. We begin with a reminder of how unique this team really is and how the club continues to defy the numbers with late goals, huge comebacks and an ability to unearth remarkable scoring talent such as first year striker Adam Jahn who was drafted 15th overall in the Supplemental Draft out of Stanford University and has already hit the ground running as an early rookie of the year candidate. We also examine the story behind MLS discipline target of late Steven Lenhart and Kelly gives us a deeper look at who he is as a player, why he might be understood and in many ways does set the tone for the close-knit group of Earthquakes who have taken the intensity of a season ago and begun to pace themselves over a long season that will include CONCACAF Champions League later this summer. We also examine the arrival of Walter Martinez, how San Jose is becoming a rising organization in Major League Soccer because of its reputation in finding great talent and excellent value for top level MLS players. A lot comes down to some hard work by the organization, but the tone is clearly set by the group itself and the chemistry is something certainly in the forefront of what Frank Yallop has begun to assemble in Northern California outside of the normal big city glare. This is our first look at Adam Jahn and looks to be something quite special in terms of young US strikers and should be one to watch in 2013 and beyond. One of the fine, rising color commentators in Major League Soccer, former San Jose and current Earthquakes broadcaster Kelly Gray gives us a first up close look at the 2012 Supporters Shield winners who have brought in a number of new players who cou One of the fine, rising color commentators in Major League Soccer, former San Jose and current Earthquakes broadcaster Kelly Gray gives us a first up close look at the 2012 Supporters Shield winners who have brought in a number of new players who could feature prominently after a campaign that ended abruptly in the Western Conference playoffs. We begin with a reminder of how unique this team really is and how the club continues to defy the numbers with late goals, huge comebacks and an ability to unearth remarkable scoring talent such as first year striker Adam Jahn who was drafted 15th overall in the Supplemental Draft out of Stanford University and has already hit the ground running as an early rookie of the year candidate. We also examine the story behind MLS discipline target of late Steven Lenhart and Kelly gives us a deeper look at who he is as a player, why he might be understood and in many ways does set the tone for the close-knit group of Earthquakes who have taken the intensity of a season ago and begun to pace themselves over a long season that will include CONCACAF Champions League later this summer. We also examine the arrival of Walter Martinez, how San Jose is becoming a rising organization in Major League Soccer because of its reputation in finding great talent and excellent value for top level MLS players. A lot comes down to some hard work by the organization, but the tone is clearly set by the group itself and the chemistry is something certainly in the forefront of what Frank Yallop has begun to assemble in Northern California outside of the normal big city glare. This is our first look at Adam Jahn and looks to be something quite special in terms of young US strikers and should be one to watch in 2013 and beyond. Fri, 10 May 2013 08:03:00 GMT 21:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05102013.kelly.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/10/kelly-gray/ Beyond The Pitch If you follow Manchester United and films that have documented club exploits closely over the years you know Pete Boyle, but more importantly the songs, chants and unique firebrand energy he delivers alongside supporters both inside and outside Old Trafford. What this episode attempts to do is break down the opinions and sense that supporters feel about the Sir Alex retirement from the club and get underneath how pervasive a force he was inside the club, whether David Moyes is the right choice in the end given the unique job requirements of following such a legend and what might be the first things to be addressed for the new manager which inevitably leads to player signings, perhaps moving on Wayne Rooney and even bringing over a couple of familiar names from Goodison Park. Pete Boyle gives us a clear upclose view of all these topics, has some wonderful stories to share about Sir Alex Ferguson and his impact at the largest British football club and helps us understand the many different views out there on the Moyes appointment and whether Wayne Rooney should be sent on his way at last. If you follow Manchester United and films that have documented club exploits closely over the years you know Pete Boyle, but more importantly the songs, chants and unique firebrand energy he delivers alongside supporters both inside and outside Old T If you follow Manchester United and films that have documented club exploits closely over the years you know Pete Boyle, but more importantly the songs, chants and unique firebrand energy he delivers alongside supporters both inside and outside Old Trafford. What this episode attempts to do is break down the opinions and sense that supporters feel about the Sir Alex retirement from the club and get underneath how pervasive a force he was inside the club, whether David Moyes is the right choice in the end given the unique job requirements of following such a legend and what might be the first things to be addressed for the new manager which inevitably leads to player signings, perhaps moving on Wayne Rooney and even bringing over a couple of familiar names from Goodison Park. Pete Boyle gives us a clear upclose view of all these topics, has some wonderful stories to share about Sir Alex Ferguson and his impact at the largest British football club and helps us understand the many different views out there on the Moyes appointment and whether Wayne Rooney should be sent on his way at last. Thu, 09 May 2013 16:03:00 GMT 24:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05092013.pete.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/09/pete-boyle/ Beyond The Pitch Long expected and perhaps grudgingly ignored for a long time now, when the official statement came that announced retirement for Sir Alex Ferguson few questions were ever resolved about who would actually arrive to fill his shoes beyond the usual suspects who did not seem to match the criteria upon which Manchester United now begins this transition. Joining us for a discussion about this retirement announcement and reach for Everton manager David Moyes as replacement, Oliver Kay of The Times gives us his perspective on the timing of the move and whether Sir Alex went out on his terms, how this decision came to be and what factor went into consideration and whether the club and the board got the right man in the end. We also explore the matter of selling David Moyes to the board and what the major considerations should be given that he has never won a trophy in his career and how unresolved personal matters with Wayne Rooney add even more questions than comfort in the short term for supporters. We also look back at Everton and how this move for David Moyes leaves an open wound there which needs to be immediately addresses and will ultimately reveal the quality job that Moyes turned in over the years in that position. We also examine the net effect in the Premier League amongst the traditional top four clubs beyond Manchester United, how the top four this season should be settled and take on the return of Jose Mourinho at Chelsea Football Club both in terms of what is being said about a potential deal and the very real stumbling blocks that have yet to be resolved between The Special One, Roman Abramovich, Real Madrid and a list of prerequisites which have yet to be put aside. Long expected and perhaps grudgingly ignored for a long time now, when the official statement came that announced retirement for Sir Alex Ferguson few questions were ever resolved about who would actually arrive to fill his shoes beyond the usual sus Long expected and perhaps grudgingly ignored for a long time now, when the official statement came that announced retirement for Sir Alex Ferguson few questions were ever resolved about who would actually arrive to fill his shoes beyond the usual suspects who did not seem to match the criteria upon which Manchester United now begins this transition. Joining us for a discussion about this retirement announcement and reach for Everton manager David Moyes as replacement, Oliver Kay of The Times gives us his perspective on the timing of the move and whether Sir Alex went out on his terms, how this decision came to be and what factor went into consideration and whether the club and the board got the right man in the end. We also explore the matter of selling David Moyes to the board and what the major considerations should be given that he has never won a trophy in his career and how unresolved personal matters with Wayne Rooney add even more questions than comfort in the short term for supporters. We also look back at Everton and how this move for David Moyes leaves an open wound there which needs to be immediately addresses and will ultimately reveal the quality job that Moyes turned in over the years in that position. We also examine the net effect in the Premier League amongst the traditional top four clubs beyond Manchester United, how the top four this season should be settled and take on the return of Jose Mourinho at Chelsea Football Club both in terms of what is being said about a potential deal and the very real stumbling blocks that have yet to be resolved between The Special One, Roman Abramovich, Real Madrid and a list of prerequisites which have yet to be put aside. Wed, 08 May 2013 21:03:00 GMT 43:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05082013.oli.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/08/oliver-kay/ Beyond The Pitch After the dust has settled on a very harsh semi-final round in the Champions League for both Real Madrid and Barcelona, much has been gathered and some important changes appear on the horizon as a result of an 11-3 aggregate failure against Bayern and Dortmund, but is this a case of over-reaction or over-simplification with respect to some important clues that were ignored. At the crux of this failure is that these two Spanish giants might just have been a victim of their own success during a remarkable run of silverware for both club and country and whose stumble is more than likely temporary over telling longer term. However, in focus for this episode are those elements which did not go addressed, several trends that finally did take a bite of the two most dominant sides in Europe since the start of the decade and whether or not the first big questions must involved the two managers for very different reasons. On the one hand there is Tito Vilanova with some serious health issues that arose this season, but even before that occurred there were clear indications that his version of Barcelona was already weakened both by age, durability and perhaps a lack of hunger. Then over to Jose Mourinho whose tenure at Real Madrid looks to have drawn to a close after a season in which the politics and posturing finally caught up to him and his team of superstars who suddenly underperformed again and lost their way at the semi-final stage. We examine the transfer market, the politics, the lost opportunities and whether the Spanish national team performances in concert with a remarkable run for Real Madrid and Barcelona in club football hold the key in what went wrong against their German opponents shorter term. We also explore the potential of Jose Mourinho exiting for Chelsea and what he will leave behind in Madrid and whether or not Carlo Ancelotti is the right man with the right approach now that The Special One looks set to renew his love affair with English Football. After the dust has settled on a very harsh semi-final round in the Champions League for both Real Madrid and Barcelona, much has been gathered and some important changes appear on the horizon as a result of an 11-3 aggregate failure against Bayern an After the dust has settled on a very harsh semi-final round in the Champions League for both Real Madrid and Barcelona, much has been gathered and some important changes appear on the horizon as a result of an 11-3 aggregate failure against Bayern and Dortmund, but is this a case of over-reaction or over-simplification with respect to some important clues that were ignored. At the crux of this failure is that these two Spanish giants might just have been a victim of their own success during a remarkable run of silverware for both club and country and whose stumble is more than likely temporary over telling longer term. However, in focus for this episode are those elements which did not go addressed, several trends that finally did take a bite of the two most dominant sides in Europe since the start of the decade and whether or not the first big questions must involved the two managers for very different reasons. On the one hand there is Tito Vilanova with some serious health issues that arose this season, but even before that occurred there were clear indications that his version of Barcelona was already weakened both by age, durability and perhaps a lack of hunger. Then over to Jose Mourinho whose tenure at Real Madrid looks to have drawn to a close after a season in which the politics and posturing finally caught up to him and his team of superstars who suddenly underperformed again and lost their way at the semi-final stage. We examine the transfer market, the politics, the lost opportunities and whether the Spanish national team performances in concert with a remarkable run for Real Madrid and Barcelona in club football hold the key in what went wrong against their German opponents shorter term. We also explore the potential of Jose Mourinho exiting for Chelsea and what he will leave behind in Madrid and whether or not Carlo Ancelotti is the right man with the right approach now that The Special One looks set to renew his love affair with English Football. Tue, 07 May 2013 13:03:00 GMT 39:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05072013.sid.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/07/sid-lowe/ Beyond The Pitch The voice of both the New York Red Bulls on MSG, Steve Cangialosi joins the show give us a look at where the transition currently sits for Mike Petke in year one of his coaching career, the emergence of Thierry Henry as the marquee player in the league and what the impact of a second MLS franchise in New York could be for the sport. Steve Cangialosi is also the play by play voice for the New Jersey Devils, so he has a great vantage point for multi-team sports in the hustle and bustle of the New York sports marketplace, called play-by-play for NBC soccer coverage at the Summer Olympics and continues to call soccer matches for ESPN International, so we have a deep dive into what he applies to the soccer commentary from the great sport of hockey as well as discussing how the sport of soccer has emerged and looks to evolve in the biggest marketplace in North America. We also explore how Thierry Henry has emerged in Major League Soccer, the progress of his two main lieutenants in Tim Cahill and Juninho, then evaluate at which point in the season where we might have the best idea about where the Red Bulls could be headed this season. If you follow the Red Bulls or just New York sports in general, what Steve Cangialosi has to say about the New York sports marketplace matters as he is a life-long New Yorker with a ton of insight and knowledge about sport history of the entire area. The voice of both the New York Red Bulls on MSG, Steve Cangialosi joins the show give us a look at where the transition currently sits for Mike Petke in year one of his coaching career, the emergence of Thierry Henry as the marquee player in the leag The voice of both the New York Red Bulls on MSG, Steve Cangialosi joins the show give us a look at where the transition currently sits for Mike Petke in year one of his coaching career, the emergence of Thierry Henry as the marquee player in the league and what the impact of a second MLS franchise in New York could be for the sport. Steve Cangialosi is also the play by play voice for the New Jersey Devils, so he has a great vantage point for multi-team sports in the hustle and bustle of the New York sports marketplace, called play-by-play for NBC soccer coverage at the Summer Olympics and continues to call soccer matches for ESPN International, so we have a deep dive into what he applies to the soccer commentary from the great sport of hockey as well as discussing how the sport of soccer has emerged and looks to evolve in the biggest marketplace in North America. We also explore how Thierry Henry has emerged in Major League Soccer, the progress of his two main lieutenants in Tim Cahill and Juninho, then evaluate at which point in the season where we might have the best idea about where the Red Bulls could be headed this season. If you follow the Red Bulls or just New York sports in general, what Steve Cangialosi has to say about the New York sports marketplace matters as he is a life-long New Yorker with a ton of insight and knowledge about sport history of the entire area. Fri, 03 May 2013 12:03:00 GMT 40:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05022013.steve.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/03/steve-cangialosi/ Beyond The Pitch New revelations from an ISL Bribery List, a CONCACAF Intergrity report and a rather bizarre Jack Warner rally called Straight Talk in Trinidad and Tobago are the backdrop upon which a very important episode begins to look back at the transition from João Havelange to Sepp Blatter in 1998 and how modern FIFA politics have been forever shaped by this process. Joining for a discussion into the ethical erosion of FIFA since those days and what its legacy has served up in the matter of reform, transparency and justice inside world football is David Larkin who serves as Co-Director and General Counsel for the ChangeFIFA organization. At the core here is how the events have shaped what FIFA now presents as its own version of the truth to the public, how the ground level politics have operated since 1998 and how Sepp Blatter might just be finally running out of bodies to sacrifice, and whether recent revelations in an CONCACAF Integrity Report and a strange press conference by the deposed Jack Warner might have tossed yet two more important wrenches into this process. Also in view here is the ISL Bribery List published from Switzerland which again corroborates a vast number of investigative stories about how money was moved inside FIFA, effectively turning entire regions of the world into a plantation for votes, ensuring that Sepp Blatter would retain power. However, at the deepest point of this important episode is how justice and fair play have been subjected to a deep and troubling sense of ethical erosion in this sport to the extent that people are in danger or left in a world of institutional slavery, threats, broken elections and even human rights abusers being elected a president of an entire federation. The question is whether people and politicians wish to wake up to these realities and whether we believe the sport is worth the fight. Even the processes inside world football governance are failing to create even a perception of reform outside of incessant PR spin and independent analysts are leaving their posts in protest of a system defined more by conflicts of interest and rampant self-interest than transparency and reform. Meanwhile, the long shadows of ISL, Blatter, Havelange, Bin Hammam and Warner are becoming even more linked together than ever before and FIFA is simply running out of the disgraced to toss over the railing. New revelations from an ISL Bribery List, a CONCACAF Intergrity report and a rather bizarre Jack Warner rally called Straight Talk in Trinidad and Tobago are the backdrop upon which a very important episode begins to look back at the transition from New revelations from an ISL Bribery List, a CONCACAF Intergrity report and a rather bizarre Jack Warner rally called Straight Talk in Trinidad and Tobago are the backdrop upon which a very important episode begins to look back at the transition from João Havelange to Sepp Blatter in 1998 and how modern FIFA politics have been forever shaped by this process. Joining for a discussion into the ethical erosion of FIFA since those days and what its legacy has served up in the matter of reform, transparency and justice inside world football is David Larkin who serves as Co-Director and General Counsel for the ChangeFIFA organization. At the core here is how the events have shaped what FIFA now presents as its own version of the truth to the public, how the ground level politics have operated since 1998 and how Sepp Blatter might just be finally running out of bodies to sacrifice, and whether recent revelations in an CONCACAF Integrity Report and a strange press conference by the deposed Jack Warner might have tossed yet two more important wrenches into this process. Also in view here is the ISL Bribery List published from Switzerland which again corroborates a vast number of investigative stories about how money was moved inside FIFA, effectively turning entire regions of the world into a plantation for votes, ensuring that Sepp Blatter would retain power. However, at the deepest point of this important episode is how justice and fair play have been subjected to a deep and troubling sense of ethical erosion in this sport to the extent that people are in danger or left in a world of institutional slavery, threats, broken elections and even human rights abusers being elected a president of an entire federation. The question is whether people and politicians wish to wake up to these realities and whether we believe the sport is worth the fight. Even the processes inside world football governance are failing to create even a perception of reform outside of incessant PR spin and independent analysts are leaving their posts in protest of a system defined more by conflicts of interest and rampant self-interest than transparency and reform. Meanwhile, the long shadows of ISL, Blatter, Havelange, Bin Hammam and Warner are becoming even more linked together than ever before and FIFA is simply running out of the disgraced to toss over the railing. Thu, 02 May 2013 21:03:00 GMT 47:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05022013.changefifa.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/02/change-fifa/ Beyond The Pitch And now there are two German clubs left - and with that all kinds of bold conclusions and rash judgments will be made about which form of football is in the ascendancy and which might just be at the end of the road without much understanding about trends, finances and what the future may indeed hold for several of the biggest leagues in European football. Joining us to discuss these topics and several others is ESPN UK commentator Derek Rae on the heels of two massive results for both Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund who have guaranteed an all-German final by dispatching Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona on a combined 11-3 aggregate after four surprising matches filled with intrigue and ramifications. We examine what went right for the Germans both in terms of establishing a new roadmap to success in European football but openly start to question as well whether a core of Spanish international players for both Real Madrid and Barcelona have come to the end of a cycle prematurely given the amount of top level football that a select group of special players have delivered for both club and country over a short period of time including professional honors as well as the biggest national team competitions in the game itself which includes two continental and one World Cup trophy. Also discussed here is the failure for QPR, the potential outcome of the Champions League Final, what to expect for Jose Mourinho in a return engagement with Chelsea and look at a reorganization plan for Scottish football that failed to finally materialize and what next for Rangers Football Club after further details about Charles Green and Craig Whyte have emerged. And now there are two German clubs left - and with that all kinds of bold conclusions and rash judgments will be made about which form of football is in the ascendancy and which might just be at the end of the road without much understanding about tr And now there are two German clubs left - and with that all kinds of bold conclusions and rash judgments will be made about which form of football is in the ascendancy and which might just be at the end of the road without much understanding about trends, finances and what the future may indeed hold for several of the biggest leagues in European football. Joining us to discuss these topics and several others is ESPN UK commentator Derek Rae on the heels of two massive results for both Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund who have guaranteed an all-German final by dispatching Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona on a combined 11-3 aggregate after four surprising matches filled with intrigue and ramifications. We examine what went right for the Germans both in terms of establishing a new roadmap to success in European football but openly start to question as well whether a core of Spanish international players for both Real Madrid and Barcelona have come to the end of a cycle prematurely given the amount of top level football that a select group of special players have delivered for both club and country over a short period of time including professional honors as well as the biggest national team competitions in the game itself which includes two continental and one World Cup trophy. Also discussed here is the failure for QPR, the potential outcome of the Champions League Final, what to expect for Jose Mourinho in a return engagement with Chelsea and look at a reorganization plan for Scottish football that failed to finally materialize and what next for Rangers Football Club after further details about Charles Green and Craig Whyte have emerged. Wed, 01 May 2013 19:03:00 GMT 25:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP05012013.derek.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/05/01/derek-rae/ Beyond The Pitch Joining us to discuss another key juncture at the end of the Premier League season is Ian Ladyman of The Daily Mail to help us examine the fallout from the QPR relegation, a Newcastle United team seemingly caught in free-all at precisely the wrong time and emerging rumours of a Jose Mourinho return to Stamford Bridge and what that could mean to the superpower and second-tier clubs in England. Also in focus here is what club would find itself most under threat with a second appearance by The Special One as both the commercial realities and price for success in the top flight have been drastically altered since Mourinho last departed the Premier League, with Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea becoming the serious annual contenders with Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham confronted with business challenges leaving each as just outside that landscape. We examine the situation at Arsenal where the gulf between top slot and its position in the top four seems to create an increasingly wider gulf year upon year and whether an open PSG job might attract Wenger to greener pastures at last. We also discuss the FA punishment of Luis Suarez, whether the Chelsea-Tottenham match on 8 May 2013 will settle the top four and where Sir Alex will look to strengthen the team sheet in his attempt to defend a Premier League title and ensure deeper progress in the Champions League for 2013-14. Joining us to discuss another key juncture at the end of the Premier League season is Ian Ladyman of The Daily Mail to help us examine the fallout from the QPR relegation, a Newcastle United team seemingly caught in free-all at precisely the wrong ti Joining us to discuss another key juncture at the end of the Premier League season is Ian Ladyman of The Daily Mail to help us examine the fallout from the QPR relegation, a Newcastle United team seemingly caught in free-all at precisely the wrong time and emerging rumours of a Jose Mourinho return to Stamford Bridge and what that could mean to the superpower and second-tier clubs in England. Also in focus here is what club would find itself most under threat with a second appearance by The Special One as both the commercial realities and price for success in the top flight have been drastically altered since Mourinho last departed the Premier League, with Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea becoming the serious annual contenders with Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham confronted with business challenges leaving each as just outside that landscape. We examine the situation at Arsenal where the gulf between top slot and its position in the top four seems to create an increasingly wider gulf year upon year and whether an open PSG job might attract Wenger to greener pastures at last. We also discuss the FA punishment of Luis Suarez, whether the Chelsea-Tottenham match on 8 May 2013 will settle the top four and where Sir Alex will look to strengthen the team sheet in his attempt to defend a Premier League title and ensure deeper progress in the Champions League for 2013-14. Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:33:00 GMT 21:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04302012.ian.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/30/ian-ladyman/ Beyond The Pitch Both teams in Milan are at something of a crossroads as injuries and a number of very poor transfer decisions have finally come hone to bite Internazionale while consistency remains an ever-present concern across town at AC Milan where Max Allegri continues to deliver unimpressive results against the top sides in Serie A for a third consecutive year. That is the landscape upon which this episode of calcio madness begins as we explore two extremely complicated seasons for Milanese football and how the season might just actually shake out with only a few rounds to go in the 2012-13 campaign with only top three, the Europa League and relegation slots left to be decided. We begin with the great advert for Italian football which is SuperMario and from there Owen Neilson helps adjust this episode as we move to the matter of these problems inside both Milan football clubs, starting with accusations about referees by Massimo Moratti which is a way is a smokescreen diverting from where the real problems lie in terms of personnel decisions and massive injuries and then over to AC Milan where top three should never have been so much of a struggle to begin with and now face some major end of season questions about the very man who leads this team from the touchline. Max Allegri does appear to divide opinion based entirely upon perceptions, but his track record both in Serie A against the top sides over the last three years have sparked debate on whether or not he is the right man longer term as the Rossoneri look to implement a youth policy in concert with a rebuild strategy over the next 2-3 years and there are suitors out there already for his services. We also discuss the nature of Italian derbies with a delicious Coppa Italia Final between Roma and Lazio now in the cards, whether Verona will be next to see a derby renewed as Serie B comes into focus and whether a young player at Ascoli named Simone Zaza is the next emerging Italian force like Lorenzo Insigne of a year ago at Pescara. We also look quickly at the relegation prospects for Palermo who might have caught a last desperate breath and survival could just be in the hands of a young player who delivers the magic week after week. Both teams in Milan are at something of a crossroads as injuries and a number of very poor transfer decisions have finally come hone to bite Internazionale while consistency remains an ever-present concern across town at AC Milan where Max Allegri co Both teams in Milan are at something of a crossroads as injuries and a number of very poor transfer decisions have finally come hone to bite Internazionale while consistency remains an ever-present concern across town at AC Milan where Max Allegri continues to deliver unimpressive results against the top sides in Serie A for a third consecutive year. That is the landscape upon which this episode of calcio madness begins as we explore two extremely complicated seasons for Milanese football and how the season might just actually shake out with only a few rounds to go in the 2012-13 campaign with only top three, the Europa League and relegation slots left to be decided. We begin with the great advert for Italian football which is SuperMario and from there Owen Neilson helps adjust this episode as we move to the matter of these problems inside both Milan football clubs, starting with accusations about referees by Massimo Moratti which is a way is a smokescreen diverting from where the real problems lie in terms of personnel decisions and massive injuries and then over to AC Milan where top three should never have been so much of a struggle to begin with and now face some major end of season questions about the very man who leads this team from the touchline. Max Allegri does appear to divide opinion based entirely upon perceptions, but his track record both in Serie A against the top sides over the last three years have sparked debate on whether or not he is the right man longer term as the Rossoneri look to implement a youth policy in concert with a rebuild strategy over the next 2-3 years and there are suitors out there already for his services. We also discuss the nature of Italian derbies with a delicious Coppa Italia Final between Roma and Lazio now in the cards, whether Verona will be next to see a derby renewed as Serie B comes into focus and whether a young player at Ascoli named Simone Zaza is the next emerging Italian force like Lorenzo Insigne of a year ago at Pescara. We also look quickly at the relegation prospects for Palermo who might have caught a last desperate breath and survival could just be in the hands of a young player who delivers the magic week after week. Fri, 26 Apr 2013 20:03:00 GMT 33:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04262013.owen.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/26/owen-neilson/ Beyond The Pitch Once stepping past the point that recent and ongoing behavior with Luis Suarez needs to be addressed, some key factors must be put on the table relative to whether the FA is free of accountability by simply doling out incremental match bans and whether or not a multi-million dollar asset of a football club is entitled to a more nuanced evaluation given the factors involved. Joining us for a deeper discussion into the matter of Suarez, Liverpool, Brendan Rodgers and separating the person from the punishment is the editor of Well Red Magazine Gareth Roberts who helps us examine the full range of issues surrounding yet another incident that has captivated all the talk in and around the Premier League now that a 10 match suspension has effectively ended the season for Luis Suarez. At the center of this discussion is whether the FA needs to examine itself and its treatment of players and if English players are punished on a different scale given its mission to field the best national team possible and past punishments handed down and whether the repeated issues for Suarez are more locked in tribalism when a better understanding of his issues require further examination. This is a very important topic given how football typically bypasses treatment for mental illness and treating emotional issues amongst its workforce and we ask the basic question here: is football and Luis Suarez being best served by simply handing out increasingly more severe bans to the player when it has become abundantly clear that these measures have not and show no sign of working in the near or long term future. Once stepping past the point that recent and ongoing behavior with Luis Suarez needs to be addressed, some key factors must be put on the table relative to whether the FA is free of accountability by simply doling out incremental match bans and wheth Once stepping past the point that recent and ongoing behavior with Luis Suarez needs to be addressed, some key factors must be put on the table relative to whether the FA is free of accountability by simply doling out incremental match bans and whether or not a multi-million dollar asset of a football club is entitled to a more nuanced evaluation given the factors involved. Joining us for a deeper discussion into the matter of Suarez, Liverpool, Brendan Rodgers and separating the person from the punishment is the editor of Well Red Magazine Gareth Roberts who helps us examine the full range of issues surrounding yet another incident that has captivated all the talk in and around the Premier League now that a 10 match suspension has effectively ended the season for Luis Suarez. At the center of this discussion is whether the FA needs to examine itself and its treatment of players and if English players are punished on a different scale given its mission to field the best national team possible and past punishments handed down and whether the repeated issues for Suarez are more locked in tribalism when a better understanding of his issues require further examination. This is a very important topic given how football typically bypasses treatment for mental illness and treating emotional issues amongst its workforce and we ask the basic question here: is football and Luis Suarez being best served by simply handing out increasingly more severe bans to the player when it has become abundantly clear that these measures have not and show no sign of working in the near or long term future. Thu, 25 Apr 2013 21:03:00 GMT 33:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04262013.gareth.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/25/gareth-roberts/ Beyond The Pitch Manchester United legend and current MUTV in-studio pundit Paddy Crerand makes his third appearance on the show to discuss the the Championship season in 2012-13 and help us gauge the key moments in the season, some emerging storylines for the upcoming campaign and what areas of the team Sir Alex Ferguson might have to address next and if some movement of current players to new roles might be in the cards. At the forefront is the title delivering performance for a 20th league title on a night when Robin Van Persie was his brilliant best and another appearance for Wayne Rooney in the deeper and more central area of the formation, but we also look back over the incredible run that began many years ago when the entire club had to refocus and begin by delivering its own players and strengthening with key players year upon year. We also examine the issues in the midfield, whether Paul Scholes and Darren Fletcher will make the roster for another season and if Phil Jones will ultimately move deeper into a defensive role. We also look over the opportunity lost for Manchester United in the Champions League, thoughts on the Luis Suarez 10 match ban and another major change on the horizon with David Gill moving on at the end of campaign. Paddy Crerand has just entered his 50th year of association with Manchester United Football Club. Born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1939, and after six years with Celtic, on the fifth anniversary of the Munich air disaster, he signed for United in 1963 and his contribution to United has become as priceless as it is unforgettable ever since. Manchester United legend and current MUTV in-studio pundit Paddy Crerand makes his third appearance on the show to discuss the the Championship season in 2012-13 and help us gauge the key moments in the season, some emerging storylines for the upcomi Manchester United legend and current MUTV in-studio pundit Paddy Crerand makes his third appearance on the show to discuss the the Championship season in 2012-13 and help us gauge the key moments in the season, some emerging storylines for the upcoming campaign and what areas of the team Sir Alex Ferguson might have to address next and if some movement of current players to new roles might be in the cards. At the forefront is the title delivering performance for a 20th league title on a night when Robin Van Persie was his brilliant best and another appearance for Wayne Rooney in the deeper and more central area of the formation, but we also look back over the incredible run that began many years ago when the entire club had to refocus and begin by delivering its own players and strengthening with key players year upon year. We also examine the issues in the midfield, whether Paul Scholes and Darren Fletcher will make the roster for another season and if Phil Jones will ultimately move deeper into a defensive role. We also look over the opportunity lost for Manchester United in the Champions League, thoughts on the Luis Suarez 10 match ban and another major change on the horizon with David Gill moving on at the end of campaign. Paddy Crerand has just entered his 50th year of association with Manchester United Football Club. Born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1939, and after six years with Celtic, on the fifth anniversary of the Munich air disaster, he signed for United in 1963 and his contribution to United has become as priceless as it is unforgettable ever since. Wed, 24 Apr 2013 19:03:00 GMT 25:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04242013.paddy.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/paddy-crerand/ Beyond The Pitch One game, two days, 3000 players: An entire town named Ashbourne becomes the field of play with its cemeteries, churchyards and memorial gardens considered strictly out of bounds, yet strangely enough this sport with traditions reaching back to pagan rituals of antiquity is the direct descendant to all of our ball playing games such as football, rugby and even its distant American and Australian cousins. Toward the end of winter on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday the people of Ashbourne gather in the center of their town to renew the longest running sports rivalry on earth. The game is called Shrovetide Football and originates from two medieval communities living opposite the river Henmore. Today, they are known as the Up`ards and Down`ards. Each team consists of hundreds if not thousands of people. There is no referee and few rules. Each game begins at 2pm and ends at 10pm. The ball cannot be carried in motorized transport. Under no circumstances is manslaughter to be tolerated. The object of the game is simple: Get a 4-pound ball to one of 2 goals that lay 3 miles apart. For the past 1000 years, Kings, Revolutions and Wars have tried to stop this ancient tradition. Against all odds, a passionate community has kept alive a meaning of life, not valued in pounds or dollars but in sportsmanship and friendship of the game. Joining to discuss the film, its release in US and Canada and what this sport means to its people and its tight knit community are Peter Baxter, the director of this film, and a player from each side of the annual battle - Plonk Millward and Dave Calladine, who are also two of the main characters in the documentary itself. There are some in Ashbourne who believe Shrovetide Football is over 2,000 years old. When and where exactly Shrovetide Football began is unknown. Pagan festivities celebrated the sun, their supreme god, and featured the custom of sacrificing a virgin and using her head as a ball. The head was turned up into a group of farmers who fought to steal the prize back to their farm for the promise of a healthy crop. As the custom grew in popularity, a Virgin head was replaced with a leather ball and the game was played throughout the British Isles. With the arrival of Christianity around 200 AD, the pastime was adopted into Shrovetide, the winter festival before lent. Known elsewhere as Mardi Gras, Shrovetide is a period of excess, frolic, and confession, followed by 40 days of penance. The sport came to be known as Mass or Mob Football and during the Middle Ages played it year round. The film tells the story of Shrovetide through the eyes of participants and their families. To many of them, the game is far more important than physical possessions and this film shows us about tradition, history and ritual. Shrovetide is not only a present day concern but also the birthplace of all our other ball games. One game, two days, 3000 players: An entire town named Ashbourne becomes the field of play with its cemeteries, churchyards and memorial gardens considered strictly out of bounds, yet strangely enough this sport with traditions reaching back to pagan One game, two days, 3000 players: An entire town named Ashbourne becomes the field of play with its cemeteries, churchyards and memorial gardens considered strictly out of bounds, yet strangely enough this sport with traditions reaching back to pagan rituals of antiquity is the direct descendant to all of our ball playing games such as football, rugby and even its distant American and Australian cousins. Toward the end of winter on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday the people of Ashbourne gather in the center of their town to renew the longest running sports rivalry on earth. The game is called Shrovetide Football and originates from two medieval communities living opposite the river Henmore. Today, they are known as the Up`ards and Down`ards. Each team consists of hundreds if not thousands of people. There is no referee and few rules. Each game begins at 2pm and ends at 10pm. The ball cannot be carried in motorized transport. Under no circumstances is manslaughter to be tolerated. The object of the game is simple: Get a 4-pound ball to one of 2 goals that lay 3 miles apart. For the past 1000 years, Kings, Revolutions and Wars have tried to stop this ancient tradition. Against all odds, a passionate community has kept alive a meaning of life, not valued in pounds or dollars but in sportsmanship and friendship of the game. Joining to discuss the film, its release in US and Canada and what this sport means to its people and its tight knit community are Peter Baxter, the director of this film, and a player from each side of the annual battle - Plonk Millward and Dave Calladine, who are also two of the main characters in the documentary itself. There are some in Ashbourne who believe Shrovetide Football is over 2,000 years old. When and where exactly Shrovetide Football began is unknown. Pagan festivities celebrated the sun, their supreme god, and featured the custom of sacrificing a virgin and using her head as a ball. The head was turned up into a group of farmers who fought to steal the prize back to their farm for the promise of a healthy crop. As the custom grew in popularity, a Virgin head was replaced with a leather ball and the game was played throughout the British Isles. With the arrival of Christianity around 200 AD, the pastime was adopted into Shrovetide, the winter festival before lent. Known elsewhere as Mardi Gras, Shrovetide is a period of excess, frolic, and confession, followed by 40 days of penance. The sport came to be known as Mass or Mob Football and during the Middle Ages played it year round. The film tells the story of Shrovetide through the eyes of participants and their families. To many of them, the game is far more important than physical possessions and this film shows us about tradition, history and ritual. Shrovetide is not only a present day concern but also the birthplace of all our other ball games. Tue, 23 Apr 2013 07:33:00 GMT 54:37 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04232013.shrovetide.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/23/wild-in-the-streets/ Beyond The Pitch With Manchester United on the verge of yet another Premier League title by Monday night, Bob Cass from the Mail on Sunday joins for a discussion on what has been a largely settled season for quite some time and whether the trends point to a resurgence from Manchester City or Chelsea given how UEFA FFP and Premier League financial rules will affect transfers in the short to medium future. We examine whether Chelsea with a return of Jose Mourinho or whether a change at the top from Manchester City will pose the bigger threat in the years ahead, examine how Sir Alex Ferguson has rebuilt some key parts of the Manchester United team and if this team is about to go on another run of domestic titles. We take a look at the ongoing examination of David De Gea, whether next on the agenda for Sir Alex is finally that midfield upon which European success of late has been largely surrendered and what will be the long term position of Phil Jones given this apparent need. We also examine the evolving fates for both Newcastle United and Sunderland on the heels of a very important derby and against this landscape we begin to consider what club will ultimately join Reading and Queens Park Rangers in relegation by the end of the season. With Manchester United on the verge of yet another Premier League title by Monday night, Bob Cass from the Mail on Sunday joins for a discussion on what has been a largely settled season for quite some time and whether the trends point to a resurgenc With Manchester United on the verge of yet another Premier League title by Monday night, Bob Cass from the Mail on Sunday joins for a discussion on what has been a largely settled season for quite some time and whether the trends point to a resurgence from Manchester City or Chelsea given how UEFA FFP and Premier League financial rules will affect transfers in the short to medium future. We examine whether Chelsea with a return of Jose Mourinho or whether a change at the top from Manchester City will pose the bigger threat in the years ahead, examine how Sir Alex Ferguson has rebuilt some key parts of the Manchester United team and if this team is about to go on another run of domestic titles. We take a look at the ongoing examination of David De Gea, whether next on the agenda for Sir Alex is finally that midfield upon which European success of late has been largely surrendered and what will be the long term position of Phil Jones given this apparent need. We also examine the evolving fates for both Newcastle United and Sunderland on the heels of a very important derby and against this landscape we begin to consider what club will ultimately join Reading and Queens Park Rangers in relegation by the end of the season. Fri, 19 Apr 2013 20:03:00 GMT 23:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04192013.cass.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/19/bob-cass/ Beyond The Pitch Columbus Crew and Ghana striker Dominic Oduro for his third appearance on the show to talk about his move from Chicago Fire this off-season to finding a rich vein of form with some remarkable goals already this season, whether teams are overlooking a very sneaky Columbus team where the goals should continue to flow with the likes of Eddie Gaven and Federico Higuain in support. Long regarded as the fastest man in Major League Soccer, Dominic will be the man of the hour once Columbus and Chicago square off this weekend and it might just be the Crew with all to gain given how this team is built and the many talented and experienced players now on this emerging roster in the Eastern Conference. As always Dominic is candid about his football, his future and the current influences in his game, including his adjustment to a new team and a new manager in Robert Warzycha who has this team moving in the right direction and seeking out that valuable playoff spot in 2013. We also reflect on a call up to the Ghana national team, how the players inside the Crew changing room view themselves and the emotions and motivations facing Dominic as he returns to Toyota Park for what should be a heated contest this weekend. Columbus Crew and Ghana striker Dominic Oduro for his third appearance on the show to talk about his move from Chicago Fire this off-season to finding a rich vein of form with some remarkable goals already this season, whether teams are overlooking a Columbus Crew and Ghana striker Dominic Oduro for his third appearance on the show to talk about his move from Chicago Fire this off-season to finding a rich vein of form with some remarkable goals already this season, whether teams are overlooking a very sneaky Columbus team where the goals should continue to flow with the likes of Eddie Gaven and Federico Higuain in support. Long regarded as the fastest man in Major League Soccer, Dominic will be the man of the hour once Columbus and Chicago square off this weekend and it might just be the Crew with all to gain given how this team is built and the many talented and experienced players now on this emerging roster in the Eastern Conference. As always Dominic is candid about his football, his future and the current influences in his game, including his adjustment to a new team and a new manager in Robert Warzycha who has this team moving in the right direction and seeking out that valuable playoff spot in 2013. We also reflect on a call up to the Ghana national team, how the players inside the Crew changing room view themselves and the emotions and motivations facing Dominic as he returns to Toyota Park for what should be a heated contest this weekend. Thu, 18 Apr 2013 21:03:00 GMT 24:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04182013.oduro.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/18/dominic-oduro/ Beyond The Pitch Investigative journalist and correspondent James Dorsey helps us breakdown the candidates, intentions and frame of reference of a current Asian Football Confederation (AFC) presidential election process designed to appoint a successor to disgraced Qatari national Mohammed Bin Hammam, where all the key figures are projecting themselves as agents of change after two years of scandal which has rocked this very important federation. Three of these candidates – Yousuf al Serkal of the United Arab Emirates, Worawi Makdudi of Thailand and Hafez Al Medlej of Saudi Arabia – have been close associates of Mr. Bin Hammam while Bahrain Football Association head Sheik Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa represents a nation which two years ago banned three of its top national soccer team players for taking part in a failed public uprising. This is both a complex and significant election in terms of where football and international sport could be headed in the decade ahead as the AFC continues remarkable growth and influence over some of the largest brands and media companies inside the game today and looks to expand its influence even more in the lead up to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. To complete a past, present and future evaluation of the inside political world and its reference points, we examine the legacy of Mohammed Bin Hammam within the AFC, the huge challenge now laid at the feet of these candidates and what needs to be done next to ensure that reform and transparency are simply not campaign code words and wedge issues for a process that must alter the direction of this football powerhouse, the AFC. This begins nowhere other than the enduring questions and recommendations raised by a Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PwC) audit that last year which concluded that Mr. Bin Hammam had used an AFC sundry account as his personal account and that raised questions about the negotiation and terms of a 1 billion USD master rights agreement (MRA) with Singapore-based World Sport Group (WSG). James Dorsey was at the center of those revelations and he offers his insight and detail quite like nobody else in this arena. Investigative journalist and correspondent James Dorsey helps us breakdown the candidates, intentions and frame of reference of a current Asian Football Confederation (AFC) presidential election process designed to appoint a successor to disgraced Qa Investigative journalist and correspondent James Dorsey helps us breakdown the candidates, intentions and frame of reference of a current Asian Football Confederation (AFC) presidential election process designed to appoint a successor to disgraced Qatari national Mohammed Bin Hammam, where all the key figures are projecting themselves as agents of change after two years of scandal which has rocked this very important federation. Three of these candidates – Yousuf al Serkal of the United Arab Emirates, Worawi Makdudi of Thailand and Hafez Al Medlej of Saudi Arabia – have been close associates of Mr. Bin Hammam while Bahrain Football Association head Sheik Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa represents a nation which two years ago banned three of its top national soccer team players for taking part in a failed public uprising. This is both a complex and significant election in terms of where football and international sport could be headed in the decade ahead as the AFC continues remarkable growth and influence over some of the largest brands and media companies inside the game today and looks to expand its influence even more in the lead up to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. To complete a past, present and future evaluation of the inside political world and its reference points, we examine the legacy of Mohammed Bin Hammam within the AFC, the huge challenge now laid at the feet of these candidates and what needs to be done next to ensure that reform and transparency are simply not campaign code words and wedge issues for a process that must alter the direction of this football powerhouse, the AFC. This begins nowhere other than the enduring questions and recommendations raised by a Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PwC) audit that last year which concluded that Mr. Bin Hammam had used an AFC sundry account as his personal account and that raised questions about the negotiation and terms of a 1 billion USD master rights agreement (MRA) with Singapore-based World Sport Group (WSG). James Dorsey was at the center of those revelations and he offers his insight and detail quite like nobody else in this arena. Wed, 17 Apr 2013 12:03:00 GMT 38:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04172013.dorsey.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/17/james-dorsey/ Beyond The Pitch One of the more difficult episodes that have appeared on the show as we begin with a look at the tragic events that began Patriots Day in Boston which serve as an appropriate reminder about what can be wonderful about sport in general and what connects people to the games and competitions, the people who shape these contests, which in a way helps define some of the bizarre choices that were made over the weekend in football. This is where the discussion begins into the events during the FA Cup, first with the terrible events as Millwall supporters turned the scene into a farce at Wembley and then over to the matter of Sergio Aguero and how football authorities continue to remain tone deaf on the matter of video evidence and why we need to take yet another look at the post-match video to hand down punishment all across the sport today. In fact, the inability of this sport to address the basic premise of player safety, hiding behind a cheap veneer of assumed progress and easy-come-easy-go cliches about the sport itself, are failing not only the players and fans as consumers, but is also weakening the hand of our match officials and governing bodies who are, essentially, asleep at the switch when it comes to practical and common sense legislation. We also examine the relegation battle with our favorite to join Reading and QPR for relegation, how Paolo Di Canio picked off a Newcastle that was ripe for the taking off a short week in the Europa League and how Newcastle supporters themselves had a worse week than their football club given some of the off-the-pitch lunacy that endured well after the Derby itself came to an end. One of the more difficult episodes that have appeared on the show as we begin with a look at the tragic events that began Patriots Day in Boston which serve as an appropriate reminder about what can be wonderful about sport in general and what connec One of the more difficult episodes that have appeared on the show as we begin with a look at the tragic events that began Patriots Day in Boston which serve as an appropriate reminder about what can be wonderful about sport in general and what connects people to the games and competitions, the people who shape these contests, which in a way helps define some of the bizarre choices that were made over the weekend in football. This is where the discussion begins into the events during the FA Cup, first with the terrible events as Millwall supporters turned the scene into a farce at Wembley and then over to the matter of Sergio Aguero and how football authorities continue to remain tone deaf on the matter of video evidence and why we need to take yet another look at the post-match video to hand down punishment all across the sport today. In fact, the inability of this sport to address the basic premise of player safety, hiding behind a cheap veneer of assumed progress and easy-come-easy-go cliches about the sport itself, are failing not only the players and fans as consumers, but is also weakening the hand of our match officials and governing bodies who are, essentially, asleep at the switch when it comes to practical and common sense legislation. We also examine the relegation battle with our favorite to join Reading and QPR for relegation, how Paolo Di Canio picked off a Newcastle that was ripe for the taking off a short week in the Europa League and how Newcastle supporters themselves had a worse week than their football club given some of the off-the-pitch lunacy that endured well after the Derby itself came to an end. Tue, 16 Apr 2013 03:33:00 GMT 52:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04152013.ptf.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/16/prime-time-football/ Beyond The Pitch German football correspondent and historian Uli Hesse arrives to give us his verdict on the Bundesliga this season as a rampant Bayern Munich has polished off another domestic title with ruthless precision while Dortmund has found itself in the elite semi-final stage of Europe and we also ponder a rumoured future for striker Robert Lewandowski. We examine the draw, the crushing economic influence that Bayern holds over the German game and whether the sporting context will be tilted in the coming years as this commercial revenue might has been put fully to use. Another key focus area has been the performance for Borussia Dortmund throughout the season in Europe and whether cover and depth are now becoming a serious concern. Also on the agenda is the future for Dortmund manager Jurgen Klopp who has become something of the top rising star in international coaching circles after overcoming Malaga in pure, storybook fashion at midweek in front of the home crowd. We also explore the relegation battle in Germany as well including the suddenly tragic end for not only Greuther Furth who have struggled to score 20 goals in nearly 30 matches and look to be going down, but also whether the end of a productive period for Hoffenheim could be in the cards after a couple of years of poor execution, aggressive player sales and terrible decisions throughout the football club. German football correspondent and historian Uli Hesse arrives to give us his verdict on the Bundesliga this season as a rampant Bayern Munich has polished off another domestic title with ruthless precision while Dortmund has found itself in the elite German football correspondent and historian Uli Hesse arrives to give us his verdict on the Bundesliga this season as a rampant Bayern Munich has polished off another domestic title with ruthless precision while Dortmund has found itself in the elite semi-final stage of Europe and we also ponder a rumoured future for striker Robert Lewandowski. We examine the draw, the crushing economic influence that Bayern holds over the German game and whether the sporting context will be tilted in the coming years as this commercial revenue might has been put fully to use. Another key focus area has been the performance for Borussia Dortmund throughout the season in Europe and whether cover and depth are now becoming a serious concern. Also on the agenda is the future for Dortmund manager Jurgen Klopp who has become something of the top rising star in international coaching circles after overcoming Malaga in pure, storybook fashion at midweek in front of the home crowd. We also explore the relegation battle in Germany as well including the suddenly tragic end for not only Greuther Furth who have struggled to score 20 goals in nearly 30 matches and look to be going down, but also whether the end of a productive period for Hoffenheim could be in the cards after a couple of years of poor execution, aggressive player sales and terrible decisions throughout the football club. Fri, 12 Apr 2013 20:03:00 GMT 26:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04122013.uli.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/12/uli-hesse/ Beyond The Pitch Another place Inside MLS resumes with an examination of Chicago Fire with Daily Herald assistant sports editor Orrin Schwarz who has covered the team since 1997 and ends with both a look at the continuing Freddy Adu narrative as it touches down in Brazil and taking stock of what happened to MLS clubs in the CONCACAF Champions League now that Mexican clubs have eliminated the last two MLS participants. The discussion begins after a very big win over New York this past weekend by a Chicago team not fully in place due to injuries and new pieces not quite fitting together and that includes the emergence of new arrival Maicon Santos who delivered an important brace off the bench to deliver a first win to Frank Klopas in the new season. We explore all angles of the Fire from the recent mistakes made with a previous first team coach, issues that still are being ironed out operationally within the context of the franchise and whether or not Chicago can make the playoffs for the second consecutive season. In part two we examine the arrival of Freddy Adu in Brazil who will be presented by his new club Bahia on Friday, his eighth new club since 2004 and rekindling a ton of misguided expectations by fans who seem willing to ignore his track record and expect new results. We also look at the recent failures by Los Angeles Galaxy and Seattle Sounders in the semi-final round of CONCACAF Champions League and whether the economics are really the indicator when comparing this region to other regions around the world with respect to the top level of tournament football across the world. Another in-depth show digging into the Chicago Fire and the outlook, a failed superstar seeking redemption in Brazil and whether the FIFA Club World Cup goal is worth all the fuss for Major League Soccer and whether the league placing another problem at the feet of its teams over the actual economics of the Mexican teams with better talent. Another place Inside MLS resumes with an examination of Chicago Fire with Daily Herald assistant sports editor Orrin Schwarz who has covered the team since 1997 and ends with both a look at the continuing Freddy Adu narrative as it touches down in Br Another place Inside MLS resumes with an examination of Chicago Fire with Daily Herald assistant sports editor Orrin Schwarz who has covered the team since 1997 and ends with both a look at the continuing Freddy Adu narrative as it touches down in Brazil and taking stock of what happened to MLS clubs in the CONCACAF Champions League now that Mexican clubs have eliminated the last two MLS participants. The discussion begins after a very big win over New York this past weekend by a Chicago team not fully in place due to injuries and new pieces not quite fitting together and that includes the emergence of new arrival Maicon Santos who delivered an important brace off the bench to deliver a first win to Frank Klopas in the new season. We explore all angles of the Fire from the recent mistakes made with a previous first team coach, issues that still are being ironed out operationally within the context of the franchise and whether or not Chicago can make the playoffs for the second consecutive season. In part two we examine the arrival of Freddy Adu in Brazil who will be presented by his new club Bahia on Friday, his eighth new club since 2004 and rekindling a ton of misguided expectations by fans who seem willing to ignore his track record and expect new results. We also look at the recent failures by Los Angeles Galaxy and Seattle Sounders in the semi-final round of CONCACAF Champions League and whether the economics are really the indicator when comparing this region to other regions around the world with respect to the top level of tournament football across the world. Another in-depth show digging into the Chicago Fire and the outlook, a failed superstar seeking redemption in Brazil and whether the FIFA Club World Cup goal is worth all the fuss for Major League Soccer and whether the league placing another problem at the feet of its teams over the actual economics of the Mexican teams with better talent. Thu, 11 Apr 2013 23:03:00 GMT 48:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04112013.mls.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/11/inside-mls/ Beyond The Pitch After another important round of Premier League matches topped by another edition of the Manchester Derby we are left with even more questions than answers about this league both in terms of what really happened to Manchester City and Roberto Mancini both as defending champions and as two seemingly frustrated entities who each seem destined for a separation as soon as this summer as rumours of serious player moves and flirtations with Monaco have resurfaced. We begin with the outcome of the match itself where the result really never seemed quite surprising, but the grand takeaways might just be the extensive gap at the top of the table and what it means, the continued goal draught for Robin Van Persie and whether Wayne Rooney is under the microscope with Sir Alex having perhaps issued something of a warning for his longer term place with the club. We examine the differences in the title race between last season and this season, what might be behind the collapse for Manchester City a year removed from its biggest triumph in years and whether the symptoms might indeed be linked to Roberto Mancini and his management tactics and whether he is long for Manchester given those persistent rumours and if Manchester City can find the right the kind of replacement to improve upon his shortcomings. This includes some of the emerging political fallout being conducted in public over transfer strategy and his longer term failures in the Champions League since his days with Inter in Serie A. Also discussed here is the longer term ramifications for QPR, the chase for top four with Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham all under pressure for different reasons and if David Moyes might have finally reached that place where he might reach for new destinations given the plateau and unchanging economics with Everton Football Club. After another important round of Premier League matches topped by another edition of the Manchester Derby we are left with even more questions than answers about this league both in terms of what really happened to Manchester City and Roberto Mancini After another important round of Premier League matches topped by another edition of the Manchester Derby we are left with even more questions than answers about this league both in terms of what really happened to Manchester City and Roberto Mancini both as defending champions and as two seemingly frustrated entities who each seem destined for a separation as soon as this summer as rumours of serious player moves and flirtations with Monaco have resurfaced. We begin with the outcome of the match itself where the result really never seemed quite surprising, but the grand takeaways might just be the extensive gap at the top of the table and what it means, the continued goal draught for Robin Van Persie and whether Wayne Rooney is under the microscope with Sir Alex having perhaps issued something of a warning for his longer term place with the club. We examine the differences in the title race between last season and this season, what might be behind the collapse for Manchester City a year removed from its biggest triumph in years and whether the symptoms might indeed be linked to Roberto Mancini and his management tactics and whether he is long for Manchester given those persistent rumours and if Manchester City can find the right the kind of replacement to improve upon his shortcomings. This includes some of the emerging political fallout being conducted in public over transfer strategy and his longer term failures in the Champions League since his days with Inter in Serie A. Also discussed here is the longer term ramifications for QPR, the chase for top four with Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham all under pressure for different reasons and if David Moyes might have finally reached that place where he might reach for new destinations given the plateau and unchanging economics with Everton Football Club. Tue, 09 Apr 2013 09:33:00 GMT 41:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04092013.oli.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/09/oliver-kay/ Beyond The Pitch On the heels of two very important derby matches in Europe, former US National Team defender and ESPN commentator Alexi Lalas joins us to talk Manchester United on the verge of yet another title, American ownership of Premier League clubs and a nostalgic look back at the massive upset that was Padova Calcio over a superstar AC Milan team sheet in 1994. We also examine the real and tangibly improving evolution of MLS since 1996 and the pragmatic turn that US National Team coach Jurgen Klinsmann has taken with his approach. This is an episode where we talk football not just from the point of where titles are being determined today, but also as a catalyst to measure the real and serious progress of Major League Soccer and trying to uncover why the American game is being graded on a much different curve and why fans and critics tend to be much harder on technical and quality standards than across other leagues around the world. Also in focus here is the emerging story that is becoming Seattle Sounders, how the bigger picture of the MLS business model appears to be evolving in recent years and whether the US National Team is running into some limitations in its player pool when compared to the 2009 Confederations Cup team of a cycle ago. On the heels of two very important derby matches in Europe, former US National Team defender and ESPN commentator Alexi Lalas joins us to talk Manchester United on the verge of yet another title, American ownership of Premier League clubs and a nost On the heels of two very important derby matches in Europe, former US National Team defender and ESPN commentator Alexi Lalas joins us to talk Manchester United on the verge of yet another title, American ownership of Premier League clubs and a nostalgic look back at the massive upset that was Padova Calcio over a superstar AC Milan team sheet in 1994. We also examine the real and tangibly improving evolution of MLS since 1996 and the pragmatic turn that US National Team coach Jurgen Klinsmann has taken with his approach. This is an episode where we talk football not just from the point of where titles are being determined today, but also as a catalyst to measure the real and serious progress of Major League Soccer and trying to uncover why the American game is being graded on a much different curve and why fans and critics tend to be much harder on technical and quality standards than across other leagues around the world. Also in focus here is the emerging story that is becoming Seattle Sounders, how the bigger picture of the MLS business model appears to be evolving in recent years and whether the US National Team is running into some limitations in its player pool when compared to the 2009 Confederations Cup team of a cycle ago. Mon, 08 Apr 2013 15:15:00 GMT 28:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04082013.alexi.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/08/alexi-lalas/ Beyond The Pitch Sunderland legend Micky Gray joins up with Phil and Anto to take a deeper look at the Paolo Di Canio hire after a first encounter with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge to explore the decision process, the challenges ahead with only six matches to go after this 2-1 loss and how the overall relegation threat could shape out given the full range of candidates. We also examine the Di Canio appointment drained of the politics and ask the legitimate question about his credentials, what the expectations really should be and if he can change the belief within a squad missing goals and confidence at precisely the worst time of the season. Also in focus is the battle to avoid the last relegation slot with Wigan looking once again to side step the fall as a late equalizer came about at Loftus Road now that QPR appears set for one of the three slots at present. Micky Gray is remembered fondly for his 12-year tenure with hometown club Sunderland, for whom he made 363 league appearances between 1992 and 2004. Today you can find Micky with SkySports, PLPTV, BBC 5 Live and TalkSport where he offers his opinions and insight on the Barclays Premier League and English football. Sunderland legend Micky Gray joins up with Phil and Anto to take a deeper look at the Paolo Di Canio hire after a first encounter with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge to explore the decision process, the challenges ahead with only six matches to go after Sunderland legend Micky Gray joins up with Phil and Anto to take a deeper look at the Paolo Di Canio hire after a first encounter with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge to explore the decision process, the challenges ahead with only six matches to go after this 2-1 loss and how the overall relegation threat could shape out given the full range of candidates. We also examine the Di Canio appointment drained of the politics and ask the legitimate question about his credentials, what the expectations really should be and if he can change the belief within a squad missing goals and confidence at precisely the worst time of the season. Also in focus is the battle to avoid the last relegation slot with Wigan looking once again to side step the fall as a late equalizer came about at Loftus Road now that QPR appears set for one of the three slots at present. Micky Gray is remembered fondly for his 12-year tenure with hometown club Sunderland, for whom he made 363 league appearances between 1992 and 2004. Today you can find Micky with SkySports, PLPTV, BBC 5 Live and TalkSport where he offers his opinions and insight on the Barclays Premier League and English football. Sun, 07 Apr 2013 11:03:00 GMT 28:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04072013.gray.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/07/micky-gray/ Beyond The Pitch This AET section gets into the matter of the Paolo Di Canio hire at Sunderland from a number of angles all converging on one important point - whether the Italian lightning rod should have been considered in the first place - not because of personal beliefs or politics which has overrun the newscycle, but because there is little in his track record to suggest he could save the Black Cats from relegation. At the very core of this move by Sunderland is a level of desperation perhaps being fueled by the riches of a new TV broadcasting deal that commences in 2013-14 and perhaps Ellis Short has come to the decision that a short term fix to give the team an emotional lift is what might just work, but it is in the end nothing more than a high risk bet given that an experienced hand was failing barely a year removed from being appointed. The problems at Sunderland appear to be more systemic as the team has largely failed to deliver when it had bigger names leading the forward line like Asamoah Gyan and Darren Bent and now has placed its entire faith in a manager untested in a Premier League relegation scrap with seven matches to go. Again, this is not an issue about personal politics, although the shock of appointing a self-described fascist is a public relations disaster, but it does speak to the rumours of board-level dysfunction and disharmony while suggesting that bigger problems exist at Sunderland AFC. This AET section gets into the matter of the Paolo Di Canio hire at Sunderland from a number of angles all converging on one important point - whether the Italian lightning rod should have been considered in the first place - not because of personal This AET section gets into the matter of the Paolo Di Canio hire at Sunderland from a number of angles all converging on one important point - whether the Italian lightning rod should have been considered in the first place - not because of personal beliefs or politics which has overrun the newscycle, but because there is little in his track record to suggest he could save the Black Cats from relegation. At the very core of this move by Sunderland is a level of desperation perhaps being fueled by the riches of a new TV broadcasting deal that commences in 2013-14 and perhaps Ellis Short has come to the decision that a short term fix to give the team an emotional lift is what might just work, but it is in the end nothing more than a high risk bet given that an experienced hand was failing barely a year removed from being appointed. The problems at Sunderland appear to be more systemic as the team has largely failed to deliver when it had bigger names leading the forward line like Asamoah Gyan and Darren Bent and now has placed its entire faith in a manager untested in a Premier League relegation scrap with seven matches to go. Again, this is not an issue about personal politics, although the shock of appointing a self-described fascist is a public relations disaster, but it does speak to the rumours of board-level dysfunction and disharmony while suggesting that bigger problems exist at Sunderland AFC. Thu, 04 Apr 2013 21:03:00 GMT 27:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04052013.aet.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/04/added-extra-time/ Beyond The Pitch After another round of Champions League fixtures midweek with the return legs ready to set the final outcome at last, we examine each of the key contests where something important was revealed and whether the favorites in Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid still have left some danger for themselves next week, beginning with the Bavarian giants who left the most in their 2-0 win over Juventus. Real Madrid seems to have left little doubt for the second leg in Turkey and Barcelona has several midnight vigils ahead with its injury report with Lionel Messi, but Bayern Munich both exposed a problem yet again for the Italian champions while simultaneously leaving the door open and launching insults at Gigi Buffon who is easily the best player at his position in the world. Will Bayern Munich learn the lesson from their Arsenal experience, can Juventus come up with a Plan B in midfield that can work around the problems Andrea Pirlo can deliver if marked with effectiveness and can Antonio Conte find a striker to get hot and provide the goals when his team needs them most in the season? These are questions that must be answered and so, too, must some personnel decisions for all the teams including Barcelona who not only look at risk for Lionel Messi but have lost Javier Mascherano for an extended period of time. Loads here on the Champions League, several bold predictions made months ago that have now come true and whether or not Real Madrid or Bayern Munich are the true favorite in this tournament. After another round of Champions League fixtures midweek with the return legs ready to set the final outcome at last, we examine each of the key contests where something important was revealed and whether the favorites in Barcelona, Bayern Munich and After another round of Champions League fixtures midweek with the return legs ready to set the final outcome at last, we examine each of the key contests where something important was revealed and whether the favorites in Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid still have left some danger for themselves next week, beginning with the Bavarian giants who left the most in their 2-0 win over Juventus. Real Madrid seems to have left little doubt for the second leg in Turkey and Barcelona has several midnight vigils ahead with its injury report with Lionel Messi, but Bayern Munich both exposed a problem yet again for the Italian champions while simultaneously leaving the door open and launching insults at Gigi Buffon who is easily the best player at his position in the world. Will Bayern Munich learn the lesson from their Arsenal experience, can Juventus come up with a Plan B in midfield that can work around the problems Andrea Pirlo can deliver if marked with effectiveness and can Antonio Conte find a striker to get hot and provide the goals when his team needs them most in the season? These are questions that must be answered and so, too, must some personnel decisions for all the teams including Barcelona who not only look at risk for Lionel Messi but have lost Javier Mascherano for an extended period of time. Loads here on the Champions League, several bold predictions made months ago that have now come true and whether or not Real Madrid or Bayern Munich are the true favorite in this tournament. Wed, 03 Apr 2013 19:03:00 GMT 39:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04032013.ptf.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/04/03/prime-time-football/ Beyond The Pitch Now at the opening night for the top eight left in Europe, the UEFA Champions League resumes with its own best three candidates in Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich with an outside chance for Juventus to make a case for the team most worthy of another European trophy, with the Bavarians and the Italians set to lock horns in the marquee encounter of the round. Joined by international football commentator Tim Caple, we examine the potential for a certain clash of styles encounter that the Champions League puts on display best, the type of match where the transitions can be both brilliant and non stop while also considering what exactly happened to a Bundesliga now separated by 20 points. Also discussed is the economic muscle being flexed by Bayern Munich and whether Robert Lewandowski might just be one more signal that the German top flight can no longer be competitive given the commercial revenue realities of the league. We also look at the challenges ahead for Real Madrid and Barcelona, whether Juventus can actually bring its history and ethos together to beat Bayern in the end and the trailing indicator that appears to be the lack of English Premier League teams at the round of eight. Also discussed here is the serious potential of Lionel Messi to overtake this competition with a Barcelona team no longer the most balanced in the world, but always having the undisputed best when the chips are down or the task is greatest. In the end, this does appear a contest between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, but there are enough questions of both teams and these will be played out over the next couple of weeks ahead of the final at Wembley. Now at the opening night for the top eight left in Europe, the UEFA Champions League resumes with its own best three candidates in Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich with an outside chance for Juventus to make a case for the team most worthy of Now at the opening night for the top eight left in Europe, the UEFA Champions League resumes with its own best three candidates in Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich with an outside chance for Juventus to make a case for the team most worthy of another European trophy, with the Bavarians and the Italians set to lock horns in the marquee encounter of the round. Joined by international football commentator Tim Caple, we examine the potential for a certain clash of styles encounter that the Champions League puts on display best, the type of match where the transitions can be both brilliant and non stop while also considering what exactly happened to a Bundesliga now separated by 20 points. Also discussed is the economic muscle being flexed by Bayern Munich and whether Robert Lewandowski might just be one more signal that the German top flight can no longer be competitive given the commercial revenue realities of the league. We also look at the challenges ahead for Real Madrid and Barcelona, whether Juventus can actually bring its history and ethos together to beat Bayern in the end and the trailing indicator that appears to be the lack of English Premier League teams at the round of eight. Also discussed here is the serious potential of Lionel Messi to overtake this competition with a Barcelona team no longer the most balanced in the world, but always having the undisputed best when the chips are down or the task is greatest. In the end, this does appear a contest between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, but there are enough questions of both teams and these will be played out over the next couple of weeks ahead of the final at Wembley. Sun, 31 Mar 2013 20:03:00 GMT 41:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP04012013.caple.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/31/tim-caple/ Beyond The Pitch Fresh off the international break, we take a look back at the reign of Cesare Prandelli with the Azzurri and whether he will remained committed to the project at least through this current World Cup cycle that will culminate with Brazil 2014 and whether Italy can fend off interest in his talents, then we quickly move into the subject of rumours surrounding Napoli hit man Edinson Cavani who seems awash with speculation on potential summer moves. We also examine the legend that is Francesco Totti now that he has reached the 20 year milestone in Serie A to gauge his place in calcio and greater football history along with taking a first look at the marquee Champions League battle of the round when Juventus takes on competition favorite Bayern Munich. Also in the crosshairs is the alternating fortunes of both Milan and Inter in their transformation process, focusing on the already promising evolution of the Rossoneri while taking stock of where the Nerazurri appear to have hit the wall, starting with some short-sighted decisions in the January transfer window. Also in focus here are some rather bold changes to the lower divisions of Italian football which could have massive implications in the years ahead as new wage controls, incentives and caps on players past 21 years of age should begin to shape how calcio conducts its business for the foreseeable future and why these changes will have great impact. We examine the Serie B model against other suggestions to allow Primavera teams to compete in Lega Pro versus the existing co-ownership system in Italy where football clubs split the risk and reward on young players. The ultimate winner in this design will be Serie A and the national team as the league continues through massive transformation and an overdue injection of youth, taking us full circle to the evolution of a national team once thought in trouble upon the conclusion of the 2010 World Cup. Fresh off the international break, we take a look back at the reign of Cesare Prandelli with the Azzurri and whether he will remained committed to the project at least through this current World Cup cycle that will culminate with Brazil 2014 and whet Fresh off the international break, we take a look back at the reign of Cesare Prandelli with the Azzurri and whether he will remained committed to the project at least through this current World Cup cycle that will culminate with Brazil 2014 and whether Italy can fend off interest in his talents, then we quickly move into the subject of rumours surrounding Napoli hit man Edinson Cavani who seems awash with speculation on potential summer moves. We also examine the legend that is Francesco Totti now that he has reached the 20 year milestone in Serie A to gauge his place in calcio and greater football history along with taking a first look at the marquee Champions League battle of the round when Juventus takes on competition favorite Bayern Munich. Also in the crosshairs is the alternating fortunes of both Milan and Inter in their transformation process, focusing on the already promising evolution of the Rossoneri while taking stock of where the Nerazurri appear to have hit the wall, starting with some short-sighted decisions in the January transfer window. Also in focus here are some rather bold changes to the lower divisions of Italian football which could have massive implications in the years ahead as new wage controls, incentives and caps on players past 21 years of age should begin to shape how calcio conducts its business for the foreseeable future and why these changes will have great impact. We examine the Serie B model against other suggestions to allow Primavera teams to compete in Lega Pro versus the existing co-ownership system in Italy where football clubs split the risk and reward on young players. The ultimate winner in this design will be Serie A and the national team as the league continues through massive transformation and an overdue injection of youth, taking us full circle to the evolution of a national team once thought in trouble upon the conclusion of the 2010 World Cup. Sat, 30 Mar 2013 09:03:00 GMT 29:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03302013.gab.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/30/gabriele-marcotti/ Beyond The Pitch Several major stories are the focus of this episode with ESPN FC commentator Robbie Earle which starts nowhere more pressing than the England campaign for Brazil 2014 where the lack of communication between Rio Ferdinand, Roy Hodgson and Manchester United surfaced with disastrous consequences to the chase for Champions League football and then the always important examination of the relegation zone as no less than 7 teams are four points from the drop. We also examine the problems that England continues to have under Roy Hodgson in what was originally thought to be one of the easier paths to Brazil after the draw, whether much stylistically and tactically has changed since the departure of Fabio Capello and whether UEFA needs to take another look at seeding the lesser nations such as San Marino as too much of the qualification process is being settled by picking on weaker sisters. Also in view here is that battle between Arsenal and Tottenham and whether Andre Villas-Boas might have to gamble a bit with the Europa League even though he does appear to have the better squad on paper. More discussion as well on Chelsea and what could be in the cards this summer once Rafa Benitez moves on and with him the end of an era at Stamford Bridge, more on the messages being sent to Wayne Rooney by Sir Alex Ferguson and if a departure from Old Trafford could happen, and then we turn our attention to the mad relegation scrap engulfing a number of teams. This is where the Bermuda Triangle of the Premier League comes into view - Roberto Martinez and Wigan Athletic who continue year upon year with a dance with disaster only to resurrect themselves after Easter Sunday by feasting on some big teams and lesser ambitions at the DW. Several major stories are the focus of this episode with ESPN FC commentator Robbie Earle which starts nowhere more pressing than the England campaign for Brazil 2014 where the lack of communication between Rio Ferdinand, Roy Hodgson and Manchester U Several major stories are the focus of this episode with ESPN FC commentator Robbie Earle which starts nowhere more pressing than the England campaign for Brazil 2014 where the lack of communication between Rio Ferdinand, Roy Hodgson and Manchester United surfaced with disastrous consequences to the chase for Champions League football and then the always important examination of the relegation zone as no less than 7 teams are four points from the drop. We also examine the problems that England continues to have under Roy Hodgson in what was originally thought to be one of the easier paths to Brazil after the draw, whether much stylistically and tactically has changed since the departure of Fabio Capello and whether UEFA needs to take another look at seeding the lesser nations such as San Marino as too much of the qualification process is being settled by picking on weaker sisters. Also in view here is that battle between Arsenal and Tottenham and whether Andre Villas-Boas might have to gamble a bit with the Europa League even though he does appear to have the better squad on paper. More discussion as well on Chelsea and what could be in the cards this summer once Rafa Benitez moves on and with him the end of an era at Stamford Bridge, more on the messages being sent to Wayne Rooney by Sir Alex Ferguson and if a departure from Old Trafford could happen, and then we turn our attention to the mad relegation scrap engulfing a number of teams. This is where the Bermuda Triangle of the Premier League comes into view - Roberto Martinez and Wigan Athletic who continue year upon year with a dance with disaster only to resurrect themselves after Easter Sunday by feasting on some big teams and lesser ambitions at the DW. Fri, 29 Mar 2013 16:03:00 GMT 35:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03292013.robbie.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/29/robbie-earle/ Beyond The Pitch A lot has been gathered, interpreted and evaluated about the US National Team after collecting four points against Costa Rica in a snow storm and a resilient performance at Azteca against that history with Mexico, but joining us to discuss these topics is a former US legend who can speak quite in depth about these topics, Hall of Fame defender and now Colorado Rapids broadcaster Marcelo Balboa. Having played in three World Cups during the 1990s and becoming one of the top defenders in the short history Major League Soccer, Marcelo helps us analyze the performances of Matt Besler and Omar Gonzales, the challenges that lay ahead for a national team in search of a new partnership in the backline and some insight into the impact of MLS not only on CONCACAF but also the lack of real quality central defenders all over the world. This is not an issue unique to US Soccer so while finding that right collection of players for the next ten years is highly important, but so too is the lack of genuinely reliable wide threats who can deliver another level to this team in advance of Brazil 2014 and beyond. We examine the decision to play the match against Costa Rica in the snow, how playing the match on Tuesday in the Mexican evening factored into that performance. Also covered here are the early season problems for Colorado Rapids as an injury problem has surfaced at a very difficult time, compounded by a two game suspension for Drew Moor, and whether Edson Buddle was a good decision after letting Omar Cummings and Conor Casey depart this off-season. We close on the enduring history of the 1994 US National Team, what made it so very unique against the landscape of American teams and what lies ahead for Marcelo as a coach and figure in this game. Marcelo Balboa finished his career with 128 national team appearances, the first US player to reach the 100 match milestone and in 2005 was named to the MLS All-Time Best XI and elected to the National Soccer Hall of Fame on the first ballot. A lot has been gathered, interpreted and evaluated about the US National Team after collecting four points against Costa Rica in a snow storm and a resilient performance at Azteca against that history with Mexico, but joining us to discuss these topi A lot has been gathered, interpreted and evaluated about the US National Team after collecting four points against Costa Rica in a snow storm and a resilient performance at Azteca against that history with Mexico, but joining us to discuss these topics is a former US legend who can speak quite in depth about these topics, Hall of Fame defender and now Colorado Rapids broadcaster Marcelo Balboa. Having played in three World Cups during the 1990s and becoming one of the top defenders in the short history Major League Soccer, Marcelo helps us analyze the performances of Matt Besler and Omar Gonzales, the challenges that lay ahead for a national team in search of a new partnership in the backline and some insight into the impact of MLS not only on CONCACAF but also the lack of real quality central defenders all over the world. This is not an issue unique to US Soccer so while finding that right collection of players for the next ten years is highly important, but so too is the lack of genuinely reliable wide threats who can deliver another level to this team in advance of Brazil 2014 and beyond. We examine the decision to play the match against Costa Rica in the snow, how playing the match on Tuesday in the Mexican evening factored into that performance. Also covered here are the early season problems for Colorado Rapids as an injury problem has surfaced at a very difficult time, compounded by a two game suspension for Drew Moor, and whether Edson Buddle was a good decision after letting Omar Cummings and Conor Casey depart this off-season. We close on the enduring history of the 1994 US National Team, what made it so very unique against the landscape of American teams and what lies ahead for Marcelo as a coach and figure in this game. Marcelo Balboa finished his career with 128 national team appearances, the first US player to reach the 100 match milestone and in 2005 was named to the MLS All-Time Best XI and elected to the National Soccer Hall of Fame on the first ballot. Thu, 28 March 2013 13:23:00 GMT 30:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03282013.balboa.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/28/marcelo-balboa/ Beyond The Pitch Manchester United legend and MUTV in-studio pundit Paddy Crerand makes his second appearance to discuss the firestorm over the Rio Ferdinand selection to the England national team, whether he should continue his international career, and what lies ahead for a United team which stands double digit points clear with a clear mandate a year removed from a title that was settled by goal difference. At the forefront of this campaign has been the impact of Robin Van Persie and what it may actually mean for the future of Wayne Rooney at Old Trafford. We also examine the current situation developing in Scotland with Gordon Strachan, thoughts on Roy Keane and the Nani red card and some amusing personal tales between Paddy and Jose Mourinho who has already begun the charm offensive with MUTV against the constantly evolving landscape on where the future lies for The Special One in the years ahead. Paddy Crerand has just entered his 50th year of association with the football club. Born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1939, and after six years with Celtic, on the fifth anniversary of the Munich air disaster, he signed for the Reds in 1963 and his commitment and contribution to United has become priceless ever since. Manchester United legend and MUTV in-studio pundit Paddy Crerand makes his second appearance to discuss the firestorm over the Rio Ferdinand selection to the England national team, whether he should continue his international career, and what lies ah Manchester United legend and MUTV in-studio pundit Paddy Crerand makes his second appearance to discuss the firestorm over the Rio Ferdinand selection to the England national team, whether he should continue his international career, and what lies ahead for a United team which stands double digit points clear with a clear mandate a year removed from a title that was settled by goal difference. At the forefront of this campaign has been the impact of Robin Van Persie and what it may actually mean for the future of Wayne Rooney at Old Trafford. We also examine the current situation developing in Scotland with Gordon Strachan, thoughts on Roy Keane and the Nani red card and some amusing personal tales between Paddy and Jose Mourinho who has already begun the charm offensive with MUTV against the constantly evolving landscape on where the future lies for The Special One in the years ahead. Paddy Crerand has just entered his 50th year of association with the football club. Born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1939, and after six years with Celtic, on the fifth anniversary of the Munich air disaster, he signed for the Reds in 1963 and his commitment and contribution to United has become priceless ever since. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 18:03:00 GMT 22:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03242013.paddy.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/24/paddy-crerand/ Beyond The Pitch The focus is here on Argentina not just because it is one of the clear favorites for Brazil 2014, but because the national team appears to have begun separating from the rest of the pack as the return fixtures are now underway with Lionel Messi becoming more and more the irresistible force who dominates La Albiceleste and the entire region. Joel Richards joins from Buenos Aires to give us the up-close view on everything from the lesser known Argentine players finally getting some attention locally, whether the trends from the Torneo Inicial have simply extended, but we start nowhere other than two qualifiers with Venezuela and Ecuador. Surely the same weakness exist with Argentina that exist with his club side at Barcelona with a weak defence, but also similar is who exactly becomes the perfect foil for Messi as CONMEBOL qualification continues to sharpen and confirm those options. We also examine the start of the Torneo Final after six rounds and how Argentine teams are positioned in the Copa Libertadores group stage, whether Boca Juniors will continue to pay the price for these extra fixtures and if Velez might just be the best positioned to perform well in this tournament. We also revisit the matter of the Ricardo Centurion transfer to Anzhi that went south just before the end of the last transfer window, and how the Brazilian clubs are becoming more and more dominant as the economics are dictating the arrival of top level quality. The focus is here on Argentina not just because it is one of the clear favorites for Brazil 2014, but because the national team appears to have begun separating from the rest of the pack as the return fixtures are now underway with Lionel Messi becom The focus is here on Argentina not just because it is one of the clear favorites for Brazil 2014, but because the national team appears to have begun separating from the rest of the pack as the return fixtures are now underway with Lionel Messi becoming more and more the irresistible force who dominates La Albiceleste and the entire region. Joel Richards joins from Buenos Aires to give us the up-close view on everything from the lesser known Argentine players finally getting some attention locally, whether the trends from the Torneo Inicial have simply extended, but we start nowhere other than two qualifiers with Venezuela and Ecuador. Surely the same weakness exist with Argentina that exist with his club side at Barcelona with a weak defence, but also similar is who exactly becomes the perfect foil for Messi as CONMEBOL qualification continues to sharpen and confirm those options. We also examine the start of the Torneo Final after six rounds and how Argentine teams are positioned in the Copa Libertadores group stage, whether Boca Juniors will continue to pay the price for these extra fixtures and if Velez might just be the best positioned to perform well in this tournament. We also revisit the matter of the Ricardo Centurion transfer to Anzhi that went south just before the end of the last transfer window, and how the Brazilian clubs are becoming more and more dominant as the economics are dictating the arrival of top level quality. Sat, 23 Mar 2013 22:03:00 GMT 38:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03232013.joel.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/23/joel-richards/ Beyond The Pitch Joined by one of the great football commentators who has broadcasted the biggest matches on the world stage, Luis Omar Tapia discusses all the major players in South America as steps are made to see who qualifies for Brazil 2014 - from power teams in Argentina and Colombia with their own fantastic leading men, to challenges ahead for Chile and Uruguay who face off on Tuesday, to Venezuela who will stare down the top two on successive nights with Messi and Falcao pulling the strings for their national teams. This now a critical period for CONMEBOL qualification and we break down some of the key talking points as well as take a look at what lies ahead for two Spanish giants in the Champions League where Jose Mourinho might just have destiny and history on his side to deliver a mythical tenth European title to Real Madrid. We also look at the finer points of Barcelona and PSG and why the project in the French capital is so symbolic of why football business has unseated the concept of building teams at the highest levels of Europe. We close on the work Luis has done with his 90 Minutes Foundation where grass roots and inspiration is offering Florida youth players a chance to realize their dreams. With 5 FIFA World Cups, countless television shows, and exclusive interviews with some of the biggest names in this sport, Luis Omar Tapia (El Patron), is one of the top sports commentators you will find covering this remarkable sport - 90 minutes of the most beautiful sport in the world - one match at a time. Joined by one of the great football commentators who has broadcasted the biggest matches on the world stage, Luis Omar Tapia discusses all the major players in South America as steps are made to see who qualifies for Brazil 2014 - from power teams in Joined by one of the great football commentators who has broadcasted the biggest matches on the world stage, Luis Omar Tapia discusses all the major players in South America as steps are made to see who qualifies for Brazil 2014 - from power teams in Argentina and Colombia with their own fantastic leading men, to challenges ahead for Chile and Uruguay who face off on Tuesday, to Venezuela who will stare down the top two on successive nights with Messi and Falcao pulling the strings for their national teams. This now a critical period for CONMEBOL qualification and we break down some of the key talking points as well as take a look at what lies ahead for two Spanish giants in the Champions League where Jose Mourinho might just have destiny and history on his side to deliver a mythical tenth European title to Real Madrid. We also look at the finer points of Barcelona and PSG and why the project in the French capital is so symbolic of why football business has unseated the concept of building teams at the highest levels of Europe. We close on the work Luis has done with his 90 Minutes Foundation where grass roots and inspiration is offering Florida youth players a chance to realize their dreams. With 5 FIFA World Cups, countless television shows, and exclusive interviews with some of the biggest names in this sport, Luis Omar Tapia (El Patron), is one of the top sports commentators you will find covering this remarkable sport - 90 minutes of the most beautiful sport in the world - one match at a time. Fri, 22 Mar 2013 12:03:00 GMT 34:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03222013.tapia.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2012/03/22/luis-omar-tapia/ Beyond The Pitch On the way to Azteca after a deserved three points it is off to Mexico where another matchday and mini-verdict seems to await Jurgen Klinsmann who appears to be judged more on expectations than what is mostly within his control at this point during fourth round of CONCACAF qualification for Brazil 2014, along with recycled critiques from his days in Germany. Needless to say, the honeymoon period ended with that loss in Honduras and all the fallout that seems to have been collected in the messy aftermath of the first round in a ten match rock fight that will almost assuredly end up in qualification given that top three out of six teams should never be in doubt for neither the United States nor their Mexican neighbors to the South. At the center of this conversation is a national team in transition in reality cut against a series of perceptions where raising national program standards have their own expectations, and the stress between both of those realities is surely being felt in articles and rumours of tensions and chemistry problems between players, agents and other figures associated to the program. Where the problem arrives for both Jurgen Klinsmann and this team in its qualification for Brazil 2014 is the arrival of unconfirmed and anonymous sources who have both gravitated to a combination of less than acceptable results and a rapidly changing player pool that may or may not have been managed correctly given the circumstances as they present themselves today. Again, a major sticking point is the player pool for the United States that appears to have stagnated from the grass roots to those levels beneath the senior national team, expanding the player pool through foreign arrivals and whether or not this transition is paying the dividends of a lot of hard work for the current coaching staff. On the way to Azteca after a deserved three points it is off to Mexico where another matchday and mini-verdict seems to await Jurgen Klinsmann who appears to be judged more on expectations than what is mostly within his control at this point during f On the way to Azteca after a deserved three points it is off to Mexico where another matchday and mini-verdict seems to await Jurgen Klinsmann who appears to be judged more on expectations than what is mostly within his control at this point during fourth round of CONCACAF qualification for Brazil 2014, along with recycled critiques from his days in Germany. Needless to say, the honeymoon period ended with that loss in Honduras and all the fallout that seems to have been collected in the messy aftermath of the first round in a ten match rock fight that will almost assuredly end up in qualification given that top three out of six teams should never be in doubt for neither the United States nor their Mexican neighbors to the South. At the center of this conversation is a national team in transition in reality cut against a series of perceptions where raising national program standards have their own expectations, and the stress between both of those realities is surely being felt in articles and rumours of tensions and chemistry problems between players, agents and other figures associated to the program. Where the problem arrives for both Jurgen Klinsmann and this team in its qualification for Brazil 2014 is the arrival of unconfirmed and anonymous sources who have both gravitated to a combination of less than acceptable results and a rapidly changing player pool that may or may not have been managed correctly given the circumstances as they present themselves today. Again, a major sticking point is the player pool for the United States that appears to have stagnated from the grass roots to those levels beneath the senior national team, expanding the player pool through foreign arrivals and whether or not this transition is paying the dividends of a lot of hard work for the current coaching staff. Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:30:00 GMT 45:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03222013.mls.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/22/inside-mls-klinsmann-crosshairs/ Beyond The Pitch At the international break there is no respite from The Special One as he has kicked off another round of fireworks over the voting for FIFA Manager of the Year with Goran Pandev now part of a bizarre parade while Real Madrid and Barcelona answer the call yet again for another appearance in the quarterfinal stage and put to bed a number of internal issues that have followed each club. On the one hand we have the tumultuous battle of wits that Mourinho has seemed to have won in this changing room with some of his biggest stars and how Barcelona has been able to dodge the absence of its first team manager Tito Vilanova. We also examine the David Villa-Lionel Messi relationship to put those rumours into context, the emergence of Isco at Malaga and whether he will remain in La Liga past this season, a look ahead at Pep Guardiola at Bayern Munich and what that move may represent. We close on the matter of a surprising Real Sociedad who have now stolen the spotlight from Basque Country from Marcelo Bielsa and Athletic Bilbao and have stake a serious claim on top four with Malaga perhaps forced to the sidelines next season in Europe to gauge their top four worthliness. Also in this segment is a deeper look at whether Jose Mourinho has finally eclipsed Sir Alex Ferguson not in silverware but in terms of mystique and perceptions as The Special One navigated the complex task of both beating the Manchester United boss while also consoling him simultaneously. At the international break there is no respite from The Special One as he has kicked off another round of fireworks over the voting for FIFA Manager of the Year with Goran Pandev now part of a bizarre parade while Real Madrid and Barcelona answer the At the international break there is no respite from The Special One as he has kicked off another round of fireworks over the voting for FIFA Manager of the Year with Goran Pandev now part of a bizarre parade while Real Madrid and Barcelona answer the call yet again for another appearance in the quarterfinal stage and put to bed a number of internal issues that have followed each club. On the one hand we have the tumultuous battle of wits that Mourinho has seemed to have won in this changing room with some of his biggest stars and how Barcelona has been able to dodge the absence of its first team manager Tito Vilanova. We also examine the David Villa-Lionel Messi relationship to put those rumours into context, the emergence of Isco at Malaga and whether he will remain in La Liga past this season, a look ahead at Pep Guardiola at Bayern Munich and what that move may represent. We close on the matter of a surprising Real Sociedad who have now stolen the spotlight from Basque Country from Marcelo Bielsa and Athletic Bilbao and have stake a serious claim on top four with Malaga perhaps forced to the sidelines next season in Europe to gauge their top four worthliness. Also in this segment is a deeper look at whether Jose Mourinho has finally eclipsed Sir Alex Ferguson not in silverware but in terms of mystique and perceptions as The Special One navigated the complex task of both beating the Manchester United boss while also consoling him simultaneously. Thu, 21 March 2013 11:43:00 GMT 28:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03212013.sid.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/21/sid-lowe/ Beyond The Pitch All over Europe it has been a season of imbalance where the points separating the top teams and the trailing pack have become extended quite like never before, and in our crosshairs is how the Premier League title race reveals a number of clubs with terrible allocation of resources both at the top of the table and near the relegation zone where QPR may just be the most damaging case of all. We take a deeper look at how the title race being closed so soon has broadened the spotlight on many of these shortcomings including the wasted opportunities, efforts and resources allocated to big spending Manchester City and Chelsea with Arsenal and Tottenham facing some of their own weaknesses in that final race for top four. We examine the situation for Roberto Mancini who is already answering questions about transfer targets this summer after a lost 2012-13 campaign on all fronts. We also revisit the story for Manchester United where failures in Europe have appeared yet again once high level competition has tapped their unresolved issues in the midfield year after year along with an unexpected weakness in mentality that was ultimately exposed by Real Madrid. Also discussed here is the Rio Ferdinand call-up by Roy Hodgson that has backfired, the future for Wayne Rooney at Old Trafford, a massive and historic match between Croatia and Serbia and US national team coach Jurgen Klinsmann now facing the music after reports of internal problems have touched off a wave of doubt as the Americans head to Azteca to do battle with Costa Rica and Mexico. All over Europe it has been a season of imbalance where the points separating the top teams and the trailing pack have become extended quite like never before, and in our crosshairs is how the Premier League title race reveals a number of clubs with All over Europe it has been a season of imbalance where the points separating the top teams and the trailing pack have become extended quite like never before, and in our crosshairs is how the Premier League title race reveals a number of clubs with terrible allocation of resources both at the top of the table and near the relegation zone where QPR may just be the most damaging case of all. We take a deeper look at how the title race being closed so soon has broadened the spotlight on many of these shortcomings including the wasted opportunities, efforts and resources allocated to big spending Manchester City and Chelsea with Arsenal and Tottenham facing some of their own weaknesses in that final race for top four. We examine the situation for Roberto Mancini who is already answering questions about transfer targets this summer after a lost 2012-13 campaign on all fronts. We also revisit the story for Manchester United where failures in Europe have appeared yet again once high level competition has tapped their unresolved issues in the midfield year after year along with an unexpected weakness in mentality that was ultimately exposed by Real Madrid. Also discussed here is the Rio Ferdinand call-up by Roy Hodgson that has backfired, the future for Wayne Rooney at Old Trafford, a massive and historic match between Croatia and Serbia and US national team coach Jurgen Klinsmann now facing the music after reports of internal problems have touched off a wave of doubt as the Americans head to Azteca to do battle with Costa Rica and Mexico. Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:03:00 GMT 47:00 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/audio/BTP03202013.ptf.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/20/prime-time-football/ Beyond The Pitch With the release of a novel that looks back at the legend that is Juventus and Azzurri sweeper Gaetano Scirea, soccer translator and BTP contributor Steve Amoia joins to give us a look at not only the player himself, but the context of what he accomplished in the game and the crescendo that was the 1982 World Cup triumph for Italy and what it represented. This novel is not just about Scirea but tells a story of Italian football during a very unique period: from the agony of the Heysel Stadium tragedy, to the ecstasy of that World Cup triumph in 1982 - part existential, part calcio history lesson with brilliant insights into the most introspective and intelligent defenders of any era. We examine that history and its significance in great detail, the character of that famous world champion against the story of world football and Torino football, specifically. How that triumph was more than a celebration, but a massive psychic release for a national team that had been surrounded by tragedy, horror, disappointment and missed chances since the 1930s and what the break through meant to a calcio mad nation where only the Azzurri could ever unite a nation known more for deep divisions and controversy. We revisit the original scandal of 1980, that very first group of death at Spain 82 with Argentina, Brazil and Italy and the book explores many of the figures who featured prominently for both Juventus and the national team more than three decades later. We explore why Gaetano Scirea remains a largely forgotten figure outside of calcio and why his backbone performances for both club and country should be celebrated again. Scirea is a player cut from another time, but he is also a figure that football desperately needs to find again as fans are surrounded by misdirected hype and media miscalculates defence as something less than technical and absent of the skill that the great defenders displayed in a much different time. Looking for Scirea by Gianluca Iovine is our focus, but it opens a discussion into the heart and soul of calcio, which explains what many of his accomplishments have come to now represent, worthy of a player of his skill, talent, nobility and respect. With the release of a novel that looks back at the legend that is Juventus and Azzurri sweeper Gaetano Scirea, soccer translator and BTP contributor Steve Amoia joins to give us a look at not only the player himself, but the context of what he accomp With the release of a novel that looks back at the legend that is Juventus and Azzurri sweeper Gaetano Scirea, soccer translator and BTP contributor Steve Amoia joins to give us a look at not only the player himself, but the context of what he accomplished in the game and the crescendo that was the 1982 World Cup triumph for Italy and what it represented. This novel is not just about Scirea but tells a story of Italian football during a very unique period: from the agony of the Heysel Stadium tragedy, to the ecstasy of that World Cup triumph in 1982 - part existential, part calcio history lesson with brilliant insights into the most introspective and intelligent defenders of any era. We examine that history and its significance in great detail, the character of that famous world champion against the story of world football and Torino football, specifically. How that triumph was more than a celebration, but a massive psychic release for a national team that had been surrounded by tragedy, horror, disappointment and missed chances since the 1930s and what the break through meant to a calcio mad nation where only the Azzurri could ever unite a nation known more for deep divisions and controversy. We revisit the original scandal of 1980, that very first group of death at Spain 82 with Argentina, Brazil and Italy and the book explores many of the figures who featured prominently for both Juventus and the national team more than three decades later. We explore why Gaetano Scirea remains a largely forgotten figure outside of calcio and why his backbone performances for both club and country should be celebrated again. Scirea is a player cut from another time, but he is also a figure that football desperately needs to find again as fans are surrounded by misdirected hype and media miscalculates defence as something less than technical and absent of the skill that the great defenders displayed in a much different time. Looking for Scirea by Gianluca Iovine is our focus, but it opens a discussion into the heart and soul of calcio, which explains what many of his accomplishments have come to now represent, worthy of a player of his skill, talent, nobility and respect. Fri, 15 Mar 2013 23:03:00 GMT 42:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03152013.amoia.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/15/legends-looking-for-gaetano-scirea/ Beyond The Pitch The first of a new segment called Added Extra Time where we take a look back at a key decision in a tournament where the incident or event has a far greater impact on the match and how it determined the outcome after further analysis - ESPN commentator and Press Pass pundit Janusz Michallik is our first special guest on a key topic that affected who proceeded in the Champions League. In this case we look at the Round of 16 and the key incident is the Nani red card during the Manchester United-Real Madrid return leg, a decision that was not only harsh, but also may prove to be the catalyst for a Spanish side in search of a milestone achievement in Europe. We break down the aspects of the card itself, whether reckless, dangerous play and excessive force were clearly apparent and how the bigger question really is how Sir Alex Ferguson and his team responded once handed that bit of misfortune. We also examine the decision to quickly move Luka Modric into the match by Jose Mourinho, what that really bought Real Madrid, and analyze how Wayne Rooney was employed and in some ways delayed in having a hand in this decisive encounter. We also take a look at the one team who nobody in the next round will want to face and that is Juventus FC as they in many ways are the anti-Barcelona - a collection of organized players who can offset the balance by having an all-world player in Gigi Buffon at a key position. The first of a new segment called Added Extra Time where we take a look back at a key decision in a tournament where the incident or event has a far greater impact on the match and how it determined the outcome after further analysis - ESPN commentat The first of a new segment called Added Extra Time where we take a look back at a key decision in a tournament where the incident or event has a far greater impact on the match and how it determined the outcome after further analysis - ESPN commentator and Press Pass pundit Janusz Michallik is our first special guest on a key topic that affected who proceeded in the Champions League. In this case we look at the Round of 16 and the key incident is the Nani red card during the Manchester United-Real Madrid return leg, a decision that was not only harsh, but also may prove to be the catalyst for a Spanish side in search of a milestone achievement in Europe. We break down the aspects of the card itself, whether reckless, dangerous play and excessive force were clearly apparent and how the bigger question really is how Sir Alex Ferguson and his team responded once handed that bit of misfortune. We also examine the decision to quickly move Luka Modric into the match by Jose Mourinho, what that really bought Real Madrid, and analyze how Wayne Rooney was employed and in some ways delayed in having a hand in this decisive encounter. We also take a look at the one team who nobody in the next round will want to face and that is Juventus FC as they in many ways are the anti-Barcelona - a collection of organized players who can offset the balance by having an all-world player in Gigi Buffon at a key position. Thu, 14 March 2013 08:13:00 GMT 38:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03142013.aet.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/14/added-extra-time-seeing-red/ Beyond The Pitch As another epic battle looks to unfold at Camp Nou between Barcelona and AC Milan, the Catalans would still be the clear favorites even while chasing a two goal deficit, but that would underestimate what should happen should the Italians strike but only once on another counter-attack with its two of its young stars, Stephan El Shaarawy and MBaye Niang. Underscored is the defensive problems that Barcelona continues to experience in the Champions League and whether they should look to prevent that important away goal over outscoring AC Milan in this return leg. Key factors could be whether Milan continues to cause Barcelona in the wide areas and whether Barcelona breaks from its formula to play two defensive midfielders in front of the defence for extra security in those transitions. This opens a discussion into why Italian clubs traditionally find success in the big games, how they approach matches tactically and soon enough we look at another team in Europe who also is defying logic and that is Vladimir Petkovic and Lazio. Defensively they continue to defy yet another label by deploying up to four midfielders in behind a target striker, using combinations and athletic mismatches to attack space and minimize transitions against continental opponents. We also examine a number of new emerging players in Serie A such as Juraj Kucka, Victor Ibarbo and Paul Pogba who represent a new wrinkle in Italian football where long, athletic players who can be effective at either end of the pitch are now becoming a byproduct of three man defensive formations and overloaded midfields where up to five players are often deployed. As another epic battle looks to unfold at Camp Nou between Barcelona and AC Milan, the Catalans would still be the clear favorites even while chasing a two goal deficit, but that would underestimate what should happen should the Italians strike but o As another epic battle looks to unfold at Camp Nou between Barcelona and AC Milan, the Catalans would still be the clear favorites even while chasing a two goal deficit, but that would underestimate what should happen should the Italians strike but only once on another counter-attack with its two of its young stars, Stephan El Shaarawy and MBaye Niang. Underscored is the defensive problems that Barcelona continues to experience in the Champions League and whether they should look to prevent that important away goal over outscoring AC Milan in this return leg. Key factors could be whether Milan continues to cause Barcelona in the wide areas and whether Barcelona breaks from its formula to play two defensive midfielders in front of the defence for extra security in those transitions. This opens a discussion into why Italian clubs traditionally find success in the big games, how they approach matches tactically and soon enough we look at another team in Europe who also is defying logic and that is Vladimir Petkovic and Lazio. Defensively they continue to defy yet another label by deploying up to four midfielders in behind a target striker, using combinations and athletic mismatches to attack space and minimize transitions against continental opponents. We also examine a number of new emerging players in Serie A such as Juraj Kucka, Victor Ibarbo and Paul Pogba who represent a new wrinkle in Italian football where long, athletic players who can be effective at either end of the pitch are now becoming a byproduct of three man defensive formations and overloaded midfields where up to five players are often deployed. Tue, 12 March 2013 00:43:00 GMT 27:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03122013.janusz.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/12/janusz-michallik/ Beyond The Pitch Now that the emotions have subsided a bit after a rather controversial and explosive return leg at Old Trafford, Kay Murray of BeIN Sport USA joins us to take a look back at her time with Real Madrid and get underneath the two driving forces beneath the machine - Jose Mourinho and Cristiano Ronaldo as they are leading one the giants toward its mythical La Decima in trademark fashion. On the one hand there is the timely brilliance of Ronaldo and then there is always The Special One who continues to reaffirm his bunker mentality formula as the matches get bigger and more explosive in scope. We examine the arrival of Luka Modric at a key moment in the match, how the media madness continues to overlook what Mourinho does with a very basic formula, separating the winners and losers to drive the right environment for his superstar players, testing their mentality and seizing the opportunities that are there when they present themselves. The red card may have been the catalyst, but it is always how the sides react to the challenge of dealing with the instant change in a match. We also examine the narrative surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo, how he continues to shred impressions of him, delivering at the biggest moments with more regularity and demonstrating a level of class in both legs against Manchester United that should not be overlooked. We also profile the arrival of another young emerging superstar in Raphael Varane who arrived at the club when Kay was with Real Madrid TV and what he brings to this team with a level of class and ability that seems to defy his very young age. Kay also shares with us her view of a bit of important football history when Real Madrid and Barcelona were the measuring stick for the entire football world and how that Spanish national team is clear confirmation to the brilliance of that brief moment in time, Cristiano and Lionel, Mourinho and Guardiola, and how these moments are so rare in sport and how fragile the good times really are in this game. This is all Real Madrid, looking back at a truly historic period in Spanish football and tracing the steps in the chase for a mythical tenth European Championship for one the biggest clubs in football and the Peoples Republic of Mourinho. Now that the emotions have subsided a bit after a rather controversial and explosive return leg at Old Trafford, Kay Murray of BeIN Sport USA joins us to take a look back at her time with Real Madrid and get underneath the two driving forces beneath Now that the emotions have subsided a bit after a rather controversial and explosive return leg at Old Trafford, Kay Murray of BeIN Sport USA joins us to take a look back at her time with Real Madrid and get underneath the two driving forces beneath the machine - Jose Mourinho and Cristiano Ronaldo as they are leading one the giants toward its mythical La Decima in trademark fashion. On the one hand there is the timely brilliance of Ronaldo and then there is always The Special One who continues to reaffirm his bunker mentality formula as the matches get bigger and more explosive in scope. We examine the arrival of Luka Modric at a key moment in the match, how the media madness continues to overlook what Mourinho does with a very basic formula, separating the winners and losers to drive the right environment for his superstar players, testing their mentality and seizing the opportunities that are there when they present themselves. The red card may have been the catalyst, but it is always how the sides react to the challenge of dealing with the instant change in a match. We also examine the narrative surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo, how he continues to shred impressions of him, delivering at the biggest moments with more regularity and demonstrating a level of class in both legs against Manchester United that should not be overlooked. We also profile the arrival of another young emerging superstar in Raphael Varane who arrived at the club when Kay was with Real Madrid TV and what he brings to this team with a level of class and ability that seems to defy his very young age. Kay also shares with us her view of a bit of important football history when Real Madrid and Barcelona were the measuring stick for the entire football world and how that Spanish national team is clear confirmation to the brilliance of that brief moment in time, Cristiano and Lionel, Mourinho and Guardiola, and how these moments are so rare in sport and how fragile the good times really are in this game. This is all Real Madrid, looking back at a truly historic period in Spanish football and tracing the steps in the chase for a mythical tenth European Championship for one the biggest clubs in football and the Peoples Republic of Mourinho. Mon, 11 Mar 2013 03:55:00 GMT 35:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03112013.kay.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/11/kay-murray/ Beyond The Pitch This episode of Milan Insider celebrates the Rossoneri Resurrection of 2012-13 with a serious reality checkpoint on what the club has done to reach its two most important objectives after a period of astounding transformation that began last summer and appears to be coming to a successful conclusion. Already having made it out of the group stage in the Champions League, the most important goal is reaching top-three to continue that trend of Champions League appearances for the next season, having achieved the most astounding result of all, dismantling Barcelona at San Siro with a sense of fight and purpose not seen since 2007. It was a night to remember the great AC Milan-Barcelona battles of yesteryear, but also a confirmation that Riccardo Montolivo has begun to recapture the form of his best days when he was at Fiorentina with Cesare Prandelli and how the arrival of SuperMario has sparked a revival for the Rossoneri where its youngest, most brightest stars of the future have begun to adapt to what should be the most dynamic front line in football for many years to come. Milan still has some serious cracks to fill and in segment two we discuss what some of the hottest links appear to be at this stage of planning for summer, how central midfield and defence will be the object of much speculation and need for the club next season, how the transition might just take a couple of more transfer periods to sort out fully. We discuss the matter of Kevin Strootman, Angelo Ogbonna and Dede, what could happen in a restructured midfield and how a new philosophy being cast throughout the club will not only affect some players currently on the roster, but also prepare the ground for a number of talented Primavera players who look to be joining the first team next season and that starts with Bryan Cristante who is set to sign a new five year deal. Also discussed here are your questions, ranging from the goalkeepers, the arrival of Saponara and Jorginho on a co-ownership deal with Verona and Bartosz Salamon who joined late in the January window. We break down the SuperMario, Niang, El Shaarawy partnership and why Balotelli is so important to that mix, whether Pazzini has a future at Milan with two wide men up top and a whole host Milan topics driven entirely by our listeners. This episode of Milan Insider celebrates the Rossoneri Resurrection of 2012-13 with a serious reality checkpoint on what the club has done to reach its two most important objectives after a period of astounding transformation that began last summer a This episode of Milan Insider celebrates the Rossoneri Resurrection of 2012-13 with a serious reality checkpoint on what the club has done to reach its two most important objectives after a period of astounding transformation that began last summer and appears to be coming to a successful conclusion. Already having made it out of the group stage in the Champions League, the most important goal is reaching top-three to continue that trend of Champions League appearances for the next season, having achieved the most astounding result of all, dismantling Barcelona at San Siro with a sense of fight and purpose not seen since 2007. It was a night to remember the great AC Milan-Barcelona battles of yesteryear, but also a confirmation that Riccardo Montolivo has begun to recapture the form of his best days when he was at Fiorentina with Cesare Prandelli and how the arrival of SuperMario has sparked a revival for the Rossoneri where its youngest, most brightest stars of the future have begun to adapt to what should be the most dynamic front line in football for many years to come. Milan still has some serious cracks to fill and in segment two we discuss what some of the hottest links appear to be at this stage of planning for summer, how central midfield and defence will be the object of much speculation and need for the club next season, how the transition might just take a couple of more transfer periods to sort out fully. We discuss the matter of Kevin Strootman, Angelo Ogbonna and Dede, what could happen in a restructured midfield and how a new philosophy being cast throughout the club will not only affect some players currently on the roster, but also prepare the ground for a number of talented Primavera players who look to be joining the first team next season and that starts with Bryan Cristante who is set to sign a new five year deal. Also discussed here are your questions, ranging from the goalkeepers, the arrival of Saponara and Jorginho on a co-ownership deal with Verona and Bartosz Salamon who joined late in the January window. We break down the SuperMario, Niang, El Shaarawy partnership and why Balotelli is so important to that mix, whether Pazzini has a future at Milan with two wide men up top and a whole host Milan topics driven entirely by our listeners. Sun, 10 Mar 2013 12:03:00 GMT 62:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03102013.milan.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/10/milan-insider/ Beyond The Pitch Los Angeles Times columnist Kevin Baxter joins this edition to take a first look at two Major League Soccer franchises moving in absolutely two different directions, Los Angeles Galaxy and Chivas USA, both of whom went through very important off-seasons but have reinforced many perceptions about where each club is headed in 2013 and beyond. We begin with the task of resetting the Los Angeles Galaxy by Bruce Arena who has appeared to have reloaded with a healthier and more confident backline, a midfield engine works made in Brazil, and the always underrated Mike Magee, which in concert seems to be enough to supplant the loss of David Beckham and Landon Donovan on sabbatical. This edition of the Galaxy appears to have more balance that last season and some emerging young players will also provide the an additional spark as the team looks to compete on all three fronts, MLS, US Open Cup and CONCACAF Champions League. Set to the polar opposite of the spectrum is Chivas USA which has undergone yet another transformation in search of an identity that ultimately might be a pragmatic decision based on its own history as a football institution, essentially becoming a farm club for its more powerful heritage at Chivas de Guadalajara in the Mexican first division where the goal is much simpler, finding Mexican-American talent to fill its coffers and give some of its youngest players a destination to get first team football. In the crosshairs that leaves MLS Commissioner Don Garber who might just be faced with the task of addressing this situation officially as the Chivas USA franchise has become the weakest link in a league trying to earn respectability across North America and outside the region. We examine the decision to brand Chivas USA, why it has failed and how the club is viewed inside the marketplace both in general and within the Latino marketplace, apparently failing miserably with each passing season. Los Angeles Times columnist Kevin Baxter joins this edition to take a first look at two Major League Soccer franchises moving in absolutely two different directions, Los Angeles Galaxy and Chivas USA, both of whom went through very important off-seas Los Angeles Times columnist Kevin Baxter joins this edition to take a first look at two Major League Soccer franchises moving in absolutely two different directions, Los Angeles Galaxy and Chivas USA, both of whom went through very important off-seasons but have reinforced many perceptions about where each club is headed in 2013 and beyond. We begin with the task of resetting the Los Angeles Galaxy by Bruce Arena who has appeared to have reloaded with a healthier and more confident backline, a midfield engine works made in Brazil, and the always underrated Mike Magee, which in concert seems to be enough to supplant the loss of David Beckham and Landon Donovan on sabbatical. This edition of the Galaxy appears to have more balance that last season and some emerging young players will also provide the an additional spark as the team looks to compete on all three fronts, MLS, US Open Cup and CONCACAF Champions League. Set to the polar opposite of the spectrum is Chivas USA which has undergone yet another transformation in search of an identity that ultimately might be a pragmatic decision based on its own history as a football institution, essentially becoming a farm club for its more powerful heritage at Chivas de Guadalajara in the Mexican first division where the goal is much simpler, finding Mexican-American talent to fill its coffers and give some of its youngest players a destination to get first team football. In the crosshairs that leaves MLS Commissioner Don Garber who might just be faced with the task of addressing this situation officially as the Chivas USA franchise has become the weakest link in a league trying to earn respectability across North America and outside the region. We examine the decision to brand Chivas USA, why it has failed and how the club is viewed inside the marketplace both in general and within the Latino marketplace, apparently failing miserably with each passing season. Wed, 06 Mar 2013 18:03:00 GMT 32:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03062013.mls.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/06/inside-mls/ Beyond The Pitch Football Asia is back on the front burner as football correspondent and editor of Kick Off Asia John Duerden gives us the rundown of all the major stories and developments across the largest federation in world football, from the politics to the start of new leagues seasons and competitions and tournaments all across the AFC. At the top of the agenda is the search for new president of the AFC in the messy aftermath of the Mohammed Bin Hammam tenure in that post, where several candidates have emerged in advance of the elections on May 2nd. These include Yousef Al Serkal of the United Arab Emirates, Worawi Makdudi of Thailand and Hafez Al Medlej of Saudi Arabia - all former associates of Bin Hammam - and Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, head of the Bahrain Football Association, who was narrowly defeated four years ago by Bin Hammam in his bid for a seat on the FIFA Executive Committee. Acting AFC chairman Zhang Jilong has failed to announce his candidacy and we examine how this may actually impact the race, who has the most to gain and whether Sheikh Salman appears to have the legs to get the votes outside of his own region. We also examine Alessandro Del Piero after year on in the A-League, the beginning stages of the AFC Champions League and take a quick glance at Fourth Round of AFC World Cup qualification for Brazil 2014 with just a couple of matches remaining - who sits in the drivers seat and who could be left behind. China is also front and center here as we review a match fixing scandal that finally resulted in 58 bans handed down by FIFA nearly a decade after the offenses occurred and we even discuss the emergence of a new West Asian star in Omar Abdul Rahman of UAE who has exploded at Emirati side Al Ain and could be a serious regional force on the rise. Football Asia is back on the front burner as football correspondent and editor of Kick Off Asia John Duerden gives us the rundown of all the major stories and developments across the largest federation in world football, from the politics to the star Football Asia is back on the front burner as football correspondent and editor of Kick Off Asia John Duerden gives us the rundown of all the major stories and developments across the largest federation in world football, from the politics to the start of new leagues seasons and competitions and tournaments all across the AFC. At the top of the agenda is the search for new president of the AFC in the messy aftermath of the Mohammed Bin Hammam tenure in that post, where several candidates have emerged in advance of the elections on May 2nd. These include Yousef Al Serkal of the United Arab Emirates, Worawi Makdudi of Thailand and Hafez Al Medlej of Saudi Arabia - all former associates of Bin Hammam - and Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, head of the Bahrain Football Association, who was narrowly defeated four years ago by Bin Hammam in his bid for a seat on the FIFA Executive Committee. Acting AFC chairman Zhang Jilong has failed to announce his candidacy and we examine how this may actually impact the race, who has the most to gain and whether Sheikh Salman appears to have the legs to get the votes outside of his own region. We also examine Alessandro Del Piero after year on in the A-League, the beginning stages of the AFC Champions League and take a quick glance at Fourth Round of AFC World Cup qualification for Brazil 2014 with just a couple of matches remaining - who sits in the drivers seat and who could be left behind. China is also front and center here as we review a match fixing scandal that finally resulted in 58 bans handed down by FIFA nearly a decade after the offenses occurred and we even discuss the emergence of a new West Asian star in Omar Abdul Rahman of UAE who has exploded at Emirati side Al Ain and could be a serious regional force on the rise. Mon, 04 Mar 2013 21:55:00 GMT 31:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03042013.asia.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/04/2013/john-duerden/ Beyond The Pitch With the Premier League title all but handed to Manchester United, the North London Derby became the most important fixture of the past week in England, not only because of the rivalry, but also because conclusions would be drawn from the result both symbolic and actual. At the center of the discussion is none other than Arsene Wenger who conceded that the loss was a setback in achieving top four and that his team failed to be efficient yet again in two key areas of the pitch, where defensive lapses and the inability to finish factored huge in the end. We examine the slow and steady decline at Arsenal, whether the lack of top level players is due to financial restrictions, miscalculations by Wenger himself and whether players such as Jack Wilshere not imposing themselves consistently are the root cause. We also gauge whether the politics at Arsenal are evolving given the leaks to the press of available transfer funds each summer is undermining the overall message and if the football club has actually made the manager job for Wenger even more difficult by failing for so long to invest. Then we turn to the matter of Rafa Benitez on the heels of his supporter behavior manifesto from midweek to examine whether he was the right figure to deliver that message given his Liverpool history and whether the football club itself should never leave such a delivery to a manager with an interim tag on him in the first place. We evaluate whether Liverpool ultimately took something out of Benitez as we do tend to remember Benitez more for his controversy and divisiveness than his talent as a football manager. In closing we look at the rising star that is Michael Laudrup and begin to consider whether he is about to be approached by a bigger club this off-season, the type a manager cannot refuse if handed the keys to the organization. Loads here on Wenger and Benitez who will go toe to toe it seems for top four and Champions League football for 2013-14, and a great deal is now on the line. With the Premier League title all but handed to Manchester United, the North London Derby became the most important fixture of the past week in England, not only because of the rivalry, but also because conclusions would be drawn from the result both With the Premier League title all but handed to Manchester United, the North London Derby became the most important fixture of the past week in England, not only because of the rivalry, but also because conclusions would be drawn from the result both symbolic and actual. At the center of the discussion is none other than Arsene Wenger who conceded that the loss was a setback in achieving top four and that his team failed to be efficient yet again in two key areas of the pitch, where defensive lapses and the inability to finish factored huge in the end. We examine the slow and steady decline at Arsenal, whether the lack of top level players is due to financial restrictions, miscalculations by Wenger himself and whether players such as Jack Wilshere not imposing themselves consistently are the root cause. We also gauge whether the politics at Arsenal are evolving given the leaks to the press of available transfer funds each summer is undermining the overall message and if the football club has actually made the manager job for Wenger even more difficult by failing for so long to invest. Then we turn to the matter of Rafa Benitez on the heels of his supporter behavior manifesto from midweek to examine whether he was the right figure to deliver that message given his Liverpool history and whether the football club itself should never leave such a delivery to a manager with an interim tag on him in the first place. We evaluate whether Liverpool ultimately took something out of Benitez as we do tend to remember Benitez more for his controversy and divisiveness than his talent as a football manager. In closing we look at the rising star that is Michael Laudrup and begin to consider whether he is about to be approached by a bigger club this off-season, the type a manager cannot refuse if handed the keys to the organization. Loads here on Wenger and Benitez who will go toe to toe it seems for top four and Champions League football for 2013-14, and a great deal is now on the line. Sat, 03 Mar 2013 22:03:00 GMT 36:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP03032013.oli.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/03/03/oliver-kay/ Beyond The Pitch The AFC Challenge Cup is a very important step for a number of nations in Asia seeking to qualify for the 2015 Asian Cup, and joining for the second time on the show is Guam National Team Coach and Technical Director Gary White who is also joined by his second in command James Okuhama and team captain Jason Cunliffe who will speak to how the FIFA Goal Programme in tandem with some very hard work has begun to reshape the expectations for a nation not accustomed to see much success internationally. With a population of 200.000 fortunes for Guam would always come with long odds, but what Gary, his staff and players have begun to do is develop a new 10-year plan in concert with a national training centre that is considered state of the art for the region and with that arrives new expectations. Now that opportunity arrives barely months after some early success in the East Asian Football Federation Championship (EAFF), with bigger tests in store for the Matao against far-bigger and better resourced countries in the AFC Challenge Cup pits Guam against India, Chinese Taipei and host nation Myanmar. James provides a great deal of perspective on the progress the program has made in such a short time while Jason provides an insight into what effect the new procedures and plans have had on the players themselves. The Goal Programme enables member associations to implement projects designed to develop football in their countries and the effect of this investment has not only elevated the world ranking for Guam, but has also injected new energy and hope for a country that has historically been confronted with double digit losses since becoming a FIFA Member Association in 1996. Whether Guam advances or not from this round, fortunes and expectations are changing and the team clearly now has a newfound focus and long term strategy of becoming a very important player in the AFC landscape in the future. Guam is a remarkable football story in that it reveals the impact of the game worldwide, provides insight into how the smaller nations can lift themselves with just a bit of assistance and vision, and illustrates how organized and ambitious young football federations and a trained technical staff can deliver new energy where it once did not exist. The AFC Challenge Cup is a very important step for a number of nations in Asia seeking to qualify for the 2015 Asian Cup, and joining for the second time on the show is Guam National Team Coach and Technical Director Gary White who is also joined by The AFC Challenge Cup is a very important step for a number of nations in Asia seeking to qualify for the 2015 Asian Cup, and joining for the second time on the show is Guam National Team Coach and Technical Director Gary White who is also joined by his second in command James Okuhama and team captain Jason Cunliffe who will speak to how the FIFA Goal Programme in tandem with some very hard work has begun to reshape the expectations for a nation not accustomed to see much success internationally. With a population of 200.000 fortunes for Guam would always come with long odds, but what Gary, his staff and players have begun to do is develop a new 10-year plan in concert with a national training centre that is considered state of the art for the region and with that arrives new expectations. Now that opportunity arrives barely months after some early success in the East Asian Football Federation Championship (EAFF), with bigger tests in store for the Matao against far-bigger and better resourced countries in the AFC Challenge Cup pits Guam against India, Chinese Taipei and host nation Myanmar. James provides a great deal of perspective on the progress the program has made in such a short time while Jason provides an insight into what effect the new procedures and plans have had on the players themselves. The Goal Programme enables member associations to implement projects designed to develop football in their countries and the effect of this investment has not only elevated the world ranking for Guam, but has also injected new energy and hope for a country that has historically been confronted with double digit losses since becoming a FIFA Member Association in 1996. Whether Guam advances or not from this round, fortunes and expectations are changing and the team clearly now has a newfound focus and long term strategy of becoming a very important player in the AFC landscape in the future. Guam is a remarkable football story in that it reveals the impact of the game worldwide, provides insight into how the smaller nations can lift themselves with just a bit of assistance and vision, and illustrates how organized and ambitious young football federations and a trained technical staff can deliver new energy where it once did not exist. Thu, 28 Feb 2013 08:03:00 GMT 35:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02282013.guam.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/28/gary-white/ Beyond The Pitch Brian Lewis of the New York Post joins this edition of Inside MLS to take a deeper look into what many consider to be one of the most unpredictable teams in Major League Soccer, the New York Red Bulls who have had on off-season characterized as confusing, strange, even perplexing until settling on Mike Petke as a first year head coach after much deliberation. We examine the backroom players at Red Bull Arena to uncover how the process unfolded, whether the actual choice was the right one in the end and how the organization has stepped up to support Petke and reach out to the supporters to fully engage themselves in the marketplace. At the center of this discussion, ultimately, will be how Petke brings his best pieces together and maximizes the roster options the Red Bulls have, including Thierry Henry, Tim Cahill and new arrival Juninho Pernambucano from Vasco of Brazil, along with several key editions from Real Salt Lake who could feature prominently this season. We break down the key decisions in each area of the team including how the midfield will be asked to provide the support for Henry he did not always receive a year ago, the focus on rebuilding the defence which appeared to narrow the tactical options a year ago and how the biggest problems with the salary cap were overcome with the move of Kenny Cooper this off-season. We also consider whether Mike Petke will change the overall approach of the team, allowing his technical quality to express itself more, as he has recently indicated, and how his best players are set to respond. Brian gives us a great look at one of the big name franchises in Major League Soccer and provides great insight based on more than a decade of following the club through some of its most calamitous seasons reaching back to the MetroStars days. Brian Lewis of the New York Post joins this edition of Inside MLS to take a deeper look into what many consider to be one of the most unpredictable teams in Major League Soccer, the New York Red Bulls who have had on off-season characterized as confu Brian Lewis of the New York Post joins this edition of Inside MLS to take a deeper look into what many consider to be one of the most unpredictable teams in Major League Soccer, the New York Red Bulls who have had on off-season characterized as confusing, strange, even perplexing until settling on Mike Petke as a first year head coach after much deliberation. We examine the backroom players at Red Bull Arena to uncover how the process unfolded, whether the actual choice was the right one in the end and how the organization has stepped up to support Petke and reach out to the supporters to fully engage themselves in the marketplace. At the center of this discussion, ultimately, will be how Petke brings his best pieces together and maximizes the roster options the Red Bulls have, including Thierry Henry, Tim Cahill and new arrival Juninho Pernambucano from Vasco of Brazil, along with several key editions from Real Salt Lake who could feature prominently this season. We break down the key decisions in each area of the team including how the midfield will be asked to provide the support for Henry he did not always receive a year ago, the focus on rebuilding the defence which appeared to narrow the tactical options a year ago and how the biggest problems with the salary cap were overcome with the move of Kenny Cooper this off-season. We also consider whether Mike Petke will change the overall approach of the team, allowing his technical quality to express itself more, as he has recently indicated, and how his best players are set to respond. Brian gives us a great look at one of the big name franchises in Major League Soccer and provides great insight based on more than a decade of following the club through some of its most calamitous seasons reaching back to the MetroStars days. Wed, 27 Feb 2013 20:03:00 GMT 32:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02272013.ny.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/27/inside-mls/ Beyond The Pitch Another week of tense and dramatic matches in Italy have been met with even more madness on the peninsula, including the arrival of Napoli legend Diego Maradona who will more than likely stir the flames as we head into one of the most important rounds of fixtures this season. The top of the table appears settled with Juventus in control, but everything else is a complete mystery as Napoli will host Juve on Saturday which may ultimately come to define their season and whether Walter Mazzarri and his team can hold on to that second automatic qualifying slot for Champions League football next season. Also in focus are Lazio, AC Milan and Internazionale, each with their own challenges to be faced in the coming weeks and key matches also this weekend. We examine all of the trends and what looks to be a magical season for Lazio at present, an upstart Milan who have narrowed the gap not just with the arrival of SuperMario but with the important emergence of Riccardo Montolivo at a key time. Questions will continue to surround the gamble Inter made in the winter transfer window when the club reached for Tommaso Rocchi instead of a more reliable center forward to help the team handle the loss of Diego Milito for the remainder of this season. We also review the situation at AS Roma where new investors appear to be on the horizon and interim manager Andrea Andreazzoli has added a much needed bit of pragmatism and solidity to a side in desperate need of answers upon the departure of Zdenek Zeman. Even more pressing are the problems at Palermo where its owner Mauricio Zamparini continues to rotate managers with little to no result, reaching the 50 manager milestone since dipping into the business of calcio. In closing we take a look at the surprise of the season, Sassuolo in Serie B, who appear to be closing in on a milestone by reaching Serie A for the first in club history while AS Bari looks to be left near dead on the heels of a disappointing season in tandem with a points deduction that has essential disabled the club completely. Owen Neilson who covers both Serie A and Serie B for ESPN, Al Jazeera and Now TV and he joins BTP to give his take of the two top divisions of Italian football, and as always it is always bread and circus surrounding the game in Italy. Another week of tense and dramatic matches in Italy have been met with even more madness on the peninsula, including the arrival of Napoli legend Diego Maradona who will more than likely stir the flames as we head into one of the most important round Another week of tense and dramatic matches in Italy have been met with even more madness on the peninsula, including the arrival of Napoli legend Diego Maradona who will more than likely stir the flames as we head into one of the most important rounds of fixtures this season. The top of the table appears settled with Juventus in control, but everything else is a complete mystery as Napoli will host Juve on Saturday which may ultimately come to define their season and whether Walter Mazzarri and his team can hold on to that second automatic qualifying slot for Champions League football next season. Also in focus are Lazio, AC Milan and Internazionale, each with their own challenges to be faced in the coming weeks and key matches also this weekend. We examine all of the trends and what looks to be a magical season for Lazio at present, an upstart Milan who have narrowed the gap not just with the arrival of SuperMario but with the important emergence of Riccardo Montolivo at a key time. Questions will continue to surround the gamble Inter made in the winter transfer window when the club reached for Tommaso Rocchi instead of a more reliable center forward to help the team handle the loss of Diego Milito for the remainder of this season. We also review the situation at AS Roma where new investors appear to be on the horizon and interim manager Andrea Andreazzoli has added a much needed bit of pragmatism and solidity to a side in desperate need of answers upon the departure of Zdenek Zeman. Even more pressing are the problems at Palermo where its owner Mauricio Zamparini continues to rotate managers with little to no result, reaching the 50 manager milestone since dipping into the business of calcio. In closing we take a look at the surprise of the season, Sassuolo in Serie B, who appear to be closing in on a milestone by reaching Serie A for the first in club history while AS Bari looks to be left near dead on the heels of a disappointing season in tandem with a points deduction that has essential disabled the club completely. Owen Neilson who covers both Serie A and Serie B for ESPN, Al Jazeera and Now TV and he joins BTP to give his take of the two top divisions of Italian football, and as always it is always bread and circus surrounding the game in Italy. Tue, 26 Feb 2013 20:33:00 GMT 44:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02262013.owen.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/26/owen-neilson/ Beyond The Pitch Daniel Geey of the Competition and EU Regulatory Law Group at Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP joins up again with Anto to separate the theoretical from the practical application of Financial Fair Play cast against a vast landscape of European Union countries with numerous inequities in terms of commercial revenue, broadcasting rights, accounting procedures, national and local taxation as well as large differences in national labor laws. At the core of this discussion is really whether the practical limits of these regulations will become challenged at a fundamental level given these disparities and whether UEFA from a regulatory and competitive analysis has essentially erected a closed shop with regard to its most lucrative competition, the UEFA Champions League. One of the major talking points is the misguided perceptions regarded fair market value and related party transactions with respect to commercial and sponsorship relationships themselves, and if competition sponsors that cross index with actual football clubs like Gazprom should be subject to further inspection. We also examine whether the concept of Financial Fair Play in practice is a competitive insulator and how the concept of competitive balance has been substituted for the objective of economic sustainability, how the broadcasting revenue inequities are creating a huge chasm between European regions and how the complexities of tax policy are becoming more and more of a lightning rod given that clubs often do become corporate targets for reasons beyond just owning a football team and offer additional commercial benefits. Daniel Geey of the Competition and EU Regulatory Law Group at Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP joins up again with Anto to separate the theoretical from the practical application of Financial Fair Play cast against a vast landscape of European Union count Daniel Geey of the Competition and EU Regulatory Law Group at Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP joins up again with Anto to separate the theoretical from the practical application of Financial Fair Play cast against a vast landscape of European Union countries with numerous inequities in terms of commercial revenue, broadcasting rights, accounting procedures, national and local taxation as well as large differences in national labor laws. At the core of this discussion is really whether the practical limits of these regulations will become challenged at a fundamental level given these disparities and whether UEFA from a regulatory and competitive analysis has essentially erected a closed shop with regard to its most lucrative competition, the UEFA Champions League. One of the major talking points is the misguided perceptions regarded fair market value and related party transactions with respect to commercial and sponsorship relationships themselves, and if competition sponsors that cross index with actual football clubs like Gazprom should be subject to further inspection. We also examine whether the concept of Financial Fair Play in practice is a competitive insulator and how the concept of competitive balance has been substituted for the objective of economic sustainability, how the broadcasting revenue inequities are creating a huge chasm between European regions and how the complexities of tax policy are becoming more and more of a lightning rod given that clubs often do become corporate targets for reasons beyond just owning a football team and offer additional commercial benefits. Mon, 25 Feb 2013 22:55:00 GMT 39:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02252013.geey.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/25/daniel-geey/ Beyond The Pitch A little more than a year from this interview, the ultimate salesman seems to have sold himself again to not only the Milan faithful, but also the Italian public. Distinguished writer and contributor Philip Delves Broughton to take a look at his in depth story into the new world for AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi now that he has left political office and what next for his empire and fortune. This is the first of a series of examinations of the biggest figures inside the sport of world football, and it starts nowhere more significant than the biggest winner in the sport over the last 25 years. Owner, visionary and entrepreneur behind one of the biggest and most decorated football clubs in the world. We examine where he is today after his retreat from the office of Prime Minister last November to what he may do in the coming years and if he still has the fire to expand his empire and measure his ambition with the football club he once rescued from bankruptcy in 1986. We discuss the politics, his core ambitions, the failure and the many dichotomies within the man and how his unconventional character traits have both served him in business as well as serve to undermine him in the public eye. We identify where his next moves may exist and how influential he has been in the modern era of football, and this dovetails into the next generation who will eventually control and continue this empire entrenched in sport, media and entertainment. Philip Delves Broughton is a regular contributor to The Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Spectator. He is the author of the New York Times bestseller Ahead of the Curve: Two Years at Harvard Business School and The Art of the Sale: Learning from the Masters About the Business of Life, which was published in April 2012. A little more than a year from this interview, the ultimate salesman seems to have sold himself again to not only the Milan faithful, but also the Italian public. Distinguished writer and contributor Philip Delves Broughton to take a look at his in d A little more than a year from this interview, the ultimate salesman seems to have sold himself again to not only the Milan faithful, but also the Italian public. Distinguished writer and contributor Philip Delves Broughton to take a look at his in depth story into the new world for AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi now that he has left political office and what next for his empire and fortune. This is the first of a series of examinations of the biggest figures inside the sport of world football, and it starts nowhere more significant than the biggest winner in the sport over the last 25 years. Owner, visionary and entrepreneur behind one of the biggest and most decorated football clubs in the world. We examine where he is today after his retreat from the office of Prime Minister last November to what he may do in the coming years and if he still has the fire to expand his empire and measure his ambition with the football club he once rescued from bankruptcy in 1986. We discuss the politics, his core ambitions, the failure and the many dichotomies within the man and how his unconventional character traits have both served him in business as well as serve to undermine him in the public eye. We identify where his next moves may exist and how influential he has been in the modern era of football, and this dovetails into the next generation who will eventually control and continue this empire entrenched in sport, media and entertainment. Philip Delves Broughton is a regular contributor to The Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Spectator. He is the author of the New York Times bestseller Ahead of the Curve: Two Years at Harvard Business School and The Art of the Sale: Learning from the Masters About the Business of Life, which was published in April 2012. Sat, 23 Feb 2013 22:03:00 GMT 38:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02112012.delves.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/23/delves-broughton-on-berlusconi/ Beyond The Pitch Joining the show from Hong Kong is former Fulham, QPR and Bradford City defender Zesh Rehman to explore his very important career milestones, the struggles it took to reach the Premier League and why the move to play in Asia is yet one more experience that his rewarded a quite improbable career. That is because he is the first British Asian player to play at every level of English football including the League Cup and FA Cup before moving to Muangthong United and Kitchee in the AFC over the last couple of years, the second club delivering the football experience of a lifetime by winning the treble. We explore the level of discrimination that surrounded him as a boy chasing the dream to play as a professional, what it took to overcome those obstacles and consider whether recent reports this past summer by the BBC illustrate just how ingrained the racism and discrimination is in the game for boys who have isolated themselves in Asian only clubs and teams. Zesh has serious opinions about these topics and it is not very long before we discuss the magical run for Brodford City who takes on Swansea City for the League Cup Final and what it means for a local community that has come together to support the club and realize a dream of its own. Zesh was a captain for Bradford City, gives a look at what this football success means and points out a number of people behind the scenes who helped set the stage for this fairy tale story. Also discussed is the emergence of the Asian game, what his future holds and why his impact beyond his playing days could hold both in terms of coaching and his continued work with the foundation that carries his name. Zesh is a Pakistani international, an ambassador for Kick It Out, the Asian Football Network and Show Racism The Red Card campaigns and was the recipient of a PFA Community Award in 2012, a player who not only speaks of reaching out to the community, but does it repeatedly through action and great deeds beyond football itself. Joining the show from Hong Kong is former Fulham, QPR and Bradford City defender Zesh Rehman to explore his very important career milestones, the struggles it took to reach the Premier League and why the move to play in Asia is yet one more experienc Joining the show from Hong Kong is former Fulham, QPR and Bradford City defender Zesh Rehman to explore his very important career milestones, the struggles it took to reach the Premier League and why the move to play in Asia is yet one more experience that his rewarded a quite improbable career. That is because he is the first British Asian player to play at every level of English football including the League Cup and FA Cup before moving to Muangthong United and Kitchee in the AFC over the last couple of years, the second club delivering the football experience of a lifetime by winning the treble. We explore the level of discrimination that surrounded him as a boy chasing the dream to play as a professional, what it took to overcome those obstacles and consider whether recent reports this past summer by the BBC illustrate just how ingrained the racism and discrimination is in the game for boys who have isolated themselves in Asian only clubs and teams. Zesh has serious opinions about these topics and it is not very long before we discuss the magical run for Brodford City who takes on Swansea City for the League Cup Final and what it means for a local community that has come together to support the club and realize a dream of its own. Zesh was a captain for Bradford City, gives a look at what this football success means and points out a number of people behind the scenes who helped set the stage for this fairy tale story. Also discussed is the emergence of the Asian game, what his future holds and why his impact beyond his playing days could hold both in terms of coaching and his continued work with the foundation that carries his name. Zesh is a Pakistani international, an ambassador for Kick It Out, the Asian Football Network and Show Racism The Red Card campaigns and was the recipient of a PFA Community Award in 2012, a player who not only speaks of reaching out to the community, but does it repeatedly through action and great deeds beyond football itself. Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:03:00 GMT 28:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02222013.zesh.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/22/zesh-rehman/ Beyond The Pitch One of the biggest soccer voices in America, JP Dellacamera joins us for a very special episode on the vote for the 2013 US Soccer Hall of Fame where we take a look at a process that has surely become far more complicated in recent years as national team and professional experience for players and coaches is becoming harder to define up against the emergence of the women as well as a new generation of Major League Soccer players are now becoming eligible for induction. We also take a look at the case of Victor Nogueira as an important piece of the puzzle as he was clearly the most accomplished goalkeeper in indoor soccer history, and is deserved certain enshrinement based on his credentials, records and performance, but now that does open the door for a number of indoor stars of years past, with the MISL placed in focus. This is that period of time in US Soccer history where the NASL had folded and Major League Soccer was years from opening for new business, but in the mean time a number of US players had played in these indoor leagues in the years leading up to Italia 90 and USA 94. One could now argue that this should open the door to some other indoor stars of years past like Steve Zungul and Tatu who were giants of the indoor game, and in some cases found substantial outdoor success before playing in the indoor leagues in this very unusual period. We examine the current criteria for the players ballot, consider whether the indoor stars of years past should be placed on the Veterans Ballot and examine some of the more complicated questions facing this Players Ballot as US Soccer has a number of players who will soon reach eligibility in short order, including a number of mens players who featured in the 2002 National Team and a high number of women players with major silverware in their possession, including World Cup titles and Olympic medals. Two of the participants in this conversation have Hall of Fame votes in 2013 and JP Dellacamera has delivered on more than 30 years of soccer broadcast coverage including 11 World Cup tournaments and numerous Olympic events and early in his career covered the indoor soccer leagues, so there is not a more qualified person to answer some of the most complex questions of the day. JP is not only the television play by play voice for the Philadelphia Union on 6 ABC and Comcast Sports Network, but also provides coverage to Fox Soccer Channel, and we also take a quick look at the recent decision to bring an end to the Freddy Adu experiment in Philadelphia. This is a completely packed episode that features the US Soccer Hall of Fame process closely and makes a substantial case to include some of the biggest indoor soccer stars of yesteryear in this process. One of the biggest soccer voices in America, JP Dellacamera joins us for a very special episode on the vote for the 2013 US Soccer Hall of Fame where we take a look at a process that has surely become far more complicated in recent years as national One of the biggest soccer voices in America, JP Dellacamera joins us for a very special episode on the vote for the 2013 US Soccer Hall of Fame where we take a look at a process that has surely become far more complicated in recent years as national team and professional experience for players and coaches is becoming harder to define up against the emergence of the women as well as a new generation of Major League Soccer players are now becoming eligible for induction. We also take a look at the case of Victor Nogueira as an important piece of the puzzle as he was clearly the most accomplished goalkeeper in indoor soccer history, and is deserved certain enshrinement based on his credentials, records and performance, but now that does open the door for a number of indoor stars of years past, with the MISL placed in focus. This is that period of time in US Soccer history where the NASL had folded and Major League Soccer was years from opening for new business, but in the mean time a number of US players had played in these indoor leagues in the years leading up to Italia 90 and USA 94. One could now argue that this should open the door to some other indoor stars of years past like Steve Zungul and Tatu who were giants of the indoor game, and in some cases found substantial outdoor success before playing in the indoor leagues in this very unusual period. We examine the current criteria for the players ballot, consider whether the indoor stars of years past should be placed on the Veterans Ballot and examine some of the more complicated questions facing this Players Ballot as US Soccer has a number of players who will soon reach eligibility in short order, including a number of mens players who featured in the 2002 National Team and a high number of women players with major silverware in their possession, including World Cup titles and Olympic medals. Two of the participants in this conversation have Hall of Fame votes in 2013 and JP Dellacamera has delivered on more than 30 years of soccer broadcast coverage including 11 World Cup tournaments and numerous Olympic events and early in his career covered the indoor soccer leagues, so there is not a more qualified person to answer some of the most complex questions of the day. JP is not only the television play by play voice for the Philadelphia Union on 6 ABC and Comcast Sports Network, but also provides coverage to Fox Soccer Channel, and we also take a quick look at the recent decision to bring an end to the Freddy Adu experiment in Philadelphia. This is a completely packed episode that features the US Soccer Hall of Fame process closely and makes a substantial case to include some of the biggest indoor soccer stars of yesteryear in this process. Sat, 16 Feb 2013 20:03:00 GMT 60:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02162013.jp.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/16/inside-mls-hall-of-fame/ Beyond The Pitch Robbie Earle joins the show late on Valentines Day to cover the four UEFA Champions League fixtures midweek after the first leg to examine the key talking points in each match and there were many on display. At the core of this discussion is the draw at the Santiago Bernabeu between Real Madrid and Manchester United and we dig into this contest to determine if Real Madrid and Jose Mourinho really could be faulted for being as confident as they are heading off to Old Trafford for the return leg even if Sir Alex Ferguson holds a slight advantage by means of a critical away goal. We examine the performance of the United defence who were just as valiant as young David De Gea was throughout the night, but openly consider whether Manchester United has enough in that midfield to do much more than establish counter-attacks with a bit of speed advantage over that Real Madrid defence. Also in focus here is the truly clinical performance turned in by Juventus over Celtic and whether The Old Lady might be emerging as a dark horse because of that defensive unit and one goalkeeper for the ages in Gigi Buffon. We also examine the Zlatan Ibrahimovic red card away at Valencia, the emergence of Lucas Moura on the biggest stage and if Valencia has enough to combat the embarrassment of riches at PSG. We also look into the most entertaining of all the matches between Shakhtar Donetsk and Borussia Dortmund where even the sale of Willian did not feature prominently, but whether there could be an emerging concern in the Dortmund defence as the competition becomes more fierce with each passing round. For the in-focus segment, we examine all of the controversy in the Celtic-Juventus first leg around physical play in the box and whether this only serves to paper over some major cracks in the Celtic defence who were perfectly cut open by a tactically superior team who were smart to establish what the match official would permit in the contest. Robbie Earle joins the show late on Valentines Day to cover the four UEFA Champions League fixtures midweek after the first leg to examine the key talking points in each match and there were many on display. At the core of this discussion is the dra Robbie Earle joins the show late on Valentines Day to cover the four UEFA Champions League fixtures midweek after the first leg to examine the key talking points in each match and there were many on display. At the core of this discussion is the draw at the Santiago Bernabeu between Real Madrid and Manchester United and we dig into this contest to determine if Real Madrid and Jose Mourinho really could be faulted for being as confident as they are heading off to Old Trafford for the return leg even if Sir Alex Ferguson holds a slight advantage by means of a critical away goal. We examine the performance of the United defence who were just as valiant as young David De Gea was throughout the night, but openly consider whether Manchester United has enough in that midfield to do much more than establish counter-attacks with a bit of speed advantage over that Real Madrid defence. Also in focus here is the truly clinical performance turned in by Juventus over Celtic and whether The Old Lady might be emerging as a dark horse because of that defensive unit and one goalkeeper for the ages in Gigi Buffon. We also examine the Zlatan Ibrahimovic red card away at Valencia, the emergence of Lucas Moura on the biggest stage and if Valencia has enough to combat the embarrassment of riches at PSG. We also look into the most entertaining of all the matches between Shakhtar Donetsk and Borussia Dortmund where even the sale of Willian did not feature prominently, but whether there could be an emerging concern in the Dortmund defence as the competition becomes more fierce with each passing round. For the in-focus segment, we examine all of the controversy in the Celtic-Juventus first leg around physical play in the box and whether this only serves to paper over some major cracks in the Celtic defence who were perfectly cut open by a tactically superior team who were smart to establish what the match official would permit in the contest. Thu, 14 Feb 2013 22:33:00 GMT 40:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02142013.robbie.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/14/robbie-earle-champions-league/ Beyond The Pitch Now in the MLS preseason when teams are still putting together rosters, assessing their rosters and making the last of their moves for the 2013 season, we begin our first look at the league in Canada and with that comes the inevitable comparisons to the NHL which has caused a bit of a stir in soccer circles of late to a protracted lockout. Helping us dissect this talking point is John Molinaro of SportsNet in Canada who not only gives us the view from north of the border, but also weighs in on two important organizational changes for Toronto FC and Montreal Impact in the closed season as both brought in new first team managers. That means former QPR and DC United defender Ryan Nelsen with has been reunited with Kevin Payne and Marco Schällibaum who continues something of a continental trend for the Impact who reach for a foreign coach with no league experience. We examine what these changes represent and whether they simply confirm a narrative or could imply that important and positive changes are underway. We also break down the history of foreign coach success in Major League Soccer history with numbers, the finally settled issue of the New York Red Bulls manager after a strained period of organization angst about who the coach would actually be since the front office was rebuilt. We also weigh in on Mike Petke, his challenge going forward with some high profile players like Henry and Cahill and now with the arrival of free-kick wizard Juninho Pernambucano from Vasco de Gama of Brazil. In the closing section is where the NHL rant is reserved and with that comes some serious perspective based on salary caps, wages to turnover and how broadcasting and commercial revenue is the next objective for Major League Soccer as it attempts to leapfrog the bigger professional leagues in North America and where the real world powers is football truly make their money and recruit players. Lots here on Canada, the NHL versus MLS talking points this off-season and where foreign managers fit in the grand scheme. Now in the MLS preseason when teams are still putting together rosters, assessing their rosters and making the last of their moves for the 2013 season, we begin our first look at the league in Canada and with that comes the inevitable comparisons to Now in the MLS preseason when teams are still putting together rosters, assessing their rosters and making the last of their moves for the 2013 season, we begin our first look at the league in Canada and with that comes the inevitable comparisons to the NHL which has caused a bit of a stir in soccer circles of late to a protracted lockout. Helping us dissect this talking point is John Molinaro of SportsNet in Canada who not only gives us the view from north of the border, but also weighs in on two important organizational changes for Toronto FC and Montreal Impact in the closed season as both brought in new first team managers. That means former QPR and DC United defender Ryan Nelsen with has been reunited with Kevin Payne and Marco Schällibaum who continues something of a continental trend for the Impact who reach for a foreign coach with no league experience. We examine what these changes represent and whether they simply confirm a narrative or could imply that important and positive changes are underway. We also break down the history of foreign coach success in Major League Soccer history with numbers, the finally settled issue of the New York Red Bulls manager after a strained period of organization angst about who the coach would actually be since the front office was rebuilt. We also weigh in on Mike Petke, his challenge going forward with some high profile players like Henry and Cahill and now with the arrival of free-kick wizard Juninho Pernambucano from Vasco de Gama of Brazil. In the closing section is where the NHL rant is reserved and with that comes some serious perspective based on salary caps, wages to turnover and how broadcasting and commercial revenue is the next objective for Major League Soccer as it attempts to leapfrog the bigger professional leagues in North America and where the real world powers is football truly make their money and recruit players. Lots here on Canada, the NHL versus MLS talking points this off-season and where foreign managers fit in the grand scheme. Wed, 13 Feb 2013 18:03:00 GMT 65:00 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/audio/BTP02132013.mls.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/13/inside-mls/ Beyond The Pitch Former Queens Park Rangers and Toronto FC striker Danny Dichio joins the show to speak with us on the big challenge ahead for QPR as Harry Redknapp tries to deliver this club to safety with only twelves matches to go. Big loss to Norwich followed up with another to Swansea with Manchester United heading into Loftus Road is not a great set of cards given that the club might need 21 points over those last 12 matches just to give themselves a chance at redemption. We examine the fight owner Tony Fernandes has had since he bought the football club, constantly in a number of short term chases to keep above water rather actually being able to plan as managers have added layers of players and the wage to turnover ratio continues to even less sustainable levels. We also examine the match fixing scandals that rocked football in the past week, whether any league is immune and whether Major League Soccer could have a problem on its hands given that it checks a couple of important notches in the profile of leagues targeted by syndicates - lots of summer football, wide wage disparities and under the glare of the big European mainstream leagues. We also discuss the big off season change at Toronto FC and whether a former DC United partnership of Kevin Payne and Ryan Nelsen can finally deliver the team to the post-season party its supporters are desperate to see. On 23 minutes and 13 seconds into the match on 12 May 2007, Danny Dichio fired home the first goal for Toronto FC and became its first tradition. Former Queens Park Rangers and Toronto FC striker Danny Dichio joins the show to speak with us on the big challenge ahead for QPR as Harry Redknapp tries to deliver this club to safety with only twelves matches to go. Big loss to Norwich followed up Former Queens Park Rangers and Toronto FC striker Danny Dichio joins the show to speak with us on the big challenge ahead for QPR as Harry Redknapp tries to deliver this club to safety with only twelves matches to go. Big loss to Norwich followed up with another to Swansea with Manchester United heading into Loftus Road is not a great set of cards given that the club might need 21 points over those last 12 matches just to give themselves a chance at redemption. We examine the fight owner Tony Fernandes has had since he bought the football club, constantly in a number of short term chases to keep above water rather actually being able to plan as managers have added layers of players and the wage to turnover ratio continues to even less sustainable levels. We also examine the match fixing scandals that rocked football in the past week, whether any league is immune and whether Major League Soccer could have a problem on its hands given that it checks a couple of important notches in the profile of leagues targeted by syndicates - lots of summer football, wide wage disparities and under the glare of the big European mainstream leagues. We also discuss the big off season change at Toronto FC and whether a former DC United partnership of Kevin Payne and Ryan Nelsen can finally deliver the team to the post-season party its supporters are desperate to see. On 23 minutes and 13 seconds into the match on 12 May 2007, Danny Dichio fired home the first goal for Toronto FC and became its first tradition. Sat, 09 Feb 2013 09:55:00 GMT 21:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02092013.dichio.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/09/danny-dichio/ Beyond The Pitch Investigative journalists Alessandro Righi and Emanuele Piano join the show from Rome, Italy to give us an in-depth look at their brilliant work for Al Jazeera People and Power series, featuring a documentary they produced last year called, The Fix, where the first raw storytelling occured in the matter of Singapore match fixing syndicates currently operating all over the world, on each continent, at virtually every level of club and international football. Long before there was a Europol press conference announcing its findings, Invisible Dog was front and center tracking down the syndicates alongside Italian and other European law enforcement officials, digging into the data they had obtained and draw some very powerful and disturbing conclusions about Dan Tan and Wilson Raj Perumal who coordinated millions of dallars in action across high numbers of matches and remained virtually undetected until either greed or mistakes finally disrupted their operation. There are massive allegations in this episode including whether the fixers own football clubs, how Dan Tan has apparently escaped detection and why the Kelong Kings might not be the biggest syndicate in the illegal and dangerous world of fixing matches. We examine the level of sophistication in the Asian betting marketplace, how the Early Warning System at FIFA is little more than PR and how the syndicates are using technology to coordinate attacks, obscure their activities and perhaps even mislead authorities who are not armed with the necesary tools, strategies and jurisdictional powers to unlock this process, placing world football on a collision course with its very own integrity. No football league or federation is now immune as we discover from former players and now the extreme threat of leagues who play their matches in the summmer and those lower division clubs who are even more under threat given the low attention they generate and the real potential of match fixing syndicates supplying their players, becoming the chief sponsor on the shirt or even buying these clubs outright. There are important allegations here, questions that must be asked of football administrators and whether we have already gone past the tipping point on match fixing. Alessandro Righi, Emanuele Piano and Invisible Dog have done some of the best work in this area and they should be heard - what you might just learn from this episode should both alert and alarm you about how terrible the situation has become worldwide. Investigative journalists Alessandro Righi and Emanuele Piano join the show from Rome, Italy to give us an in-depth look at their brilliant work for Al Jazeera People and Power series, featuring a documentary they produced last year called, The Fix, Investigative journalists Alessandro Righi and Emanuele Piano join the show from Rome, Italy to give us an in-depth look at their brilliant work for Al Jazeera People and Power series, featuring a documentary they produced last year called, The Fix, where the first raw storytelling occured in the matter of Singapore match fixing syndicates currently operating all over the world, on each continent, at virtually every level of club and international football. Long before there was a Europol press conference announcing its findings, Invisible Dog was front and center tracking down the syndicates alongside Italian and other European law enforcement officials, digging into the data they had obtained and draw some very powerful and disturbing conclusions about Dan Tan and Wilson Raj Perumal who coordinated millions of dallars in action across high numbers of matches and remained virtually undetected until either greed or mistakes finally disrupted their operation. There are massive allegations in this episode including whether the fixers own football clubs, how Dan Tan has apparently escaped detection and why the Kelong Kings might not be the biggest syndicate in the illegal and dangerous world of fixing matches. We examine the level of sophistication in the Asian betting marketplace, how the Early Warning System at FIFA is little more than PR and how the syndicates are using technology to coordinate attacks, obscure their activities and perhaps even mislead authorities who are not armed with the necesary tools, strategies and jurisdictional powers to unlock this process, placing world football on a collision course with its very own integrity. No football league or federation is now immune as we discover from former players and now the extreme threat of leagues who play their matches in the summmer and those lower division clubs who are even more under threat given the low attention they generate and the real potential of match fixing syndicates supplying their players, becoming the chief sponsor on the shirt or even buying these clubs outright. There are important allegations here, questions that must be asked of football administrators and whether we have already gone past the tipping point on match fixing. Alessandro Righi, Emanuele Piano and Invisible Dog have done some of the best work in this area and they should be heard - what you might just learn from this episode should both alert and alarm you about how terrible the situation has become worldwide. Fri, 08 Feb 2013 20:03:00 GMT 62:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02082013.kelong.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/08/invisble-dog-the-fix/ Beyond The Pitch Maybe expectations are just too high for this collection of players with the US National Team after closer examination of third round CONCACAF qualification and how the team performed in Honduras midweek. That is the topic here as Anto and Nico start to examine what went wrong in San Pedro Sula, losing on matchday one after a very uneven and lackluster performance that seemed to lack much in the ideas and execution departments. At the flashpoint has been the US centerbacks for the match Geoff Cameron and Omar Gonzales, but deeper problems truly do exist for this edition of the US player pool as clearly the defensive position has been running dry for quite some time and is fully representative of an overall national team program finally waking up the harsh reality of when young prospects have not been produced successfully between World Cup cycles. Jurgen Klinsmann certainly knows this as he has been forced to reach overseas to Germany without much success either and the eventual successor to Landon Donovan and others appears no closer on the horizon either, forcing Graham Zusi into the breach with less than acceptable results on an international stage. We look back at the 2009 Confederations Cup team, with nearly four years approaching, and examine whether the US program is indeed regressing since that night against Brazil on the center stage of world football. The answer should not shock you, and really puts into stark focus the job Bob Bradley did for US Soccer and the massive challenge ahead for Jurgen Klinsmann and his staff. As Major League Soccer itself continues to increase the number of foreign players, as more and more of the top college players themselves are foreign born talent entering the SuperDraft, massive questions need to be asked about where the next generation of national team players will be developed, if the standard can reach another new level and if what we are seeing from Honduras is the shape of things to come. The dress rehearsal match against Canada in January is yet one more indicator that this next cycle could spell trouble for a talent pool not getting younger and decreasing quality standard when compared to the other top 20 national teams in the world. The United States should qualify with plenty to spare, given that it is CONCACAF, but that appears to be the only achievement based on the evidence at hand. Maybe expectations are just too high for this collection of players with the US National Team after closer examination of third round CONCACAF qualification and how the team performed in Honduras midweek. That is the topic here as Anto and Nico star Maybe expectations are just too high for this collection of players with the US National Team after closer examination of third round CONCACAF qualification and how the team performed in Honduras midweek. That is the topic here as Anto and Nico start to examine what went wrong in San Pedro Sula, losing on matchday one after a very uneven and lackluster performance that seemed to lack much in the ideas and execution departments. At the flashpoint has been the US centerbacks for the match Geoff Cameron and Omar Gonzales, but deeper problems truly do exist for this edition of the US player pool as clearly the defensive position has been running dry for quite some time and is fully representative of an overall national team program finally waking up the harsh reality of when young prospects have not been produced successfully between World Cup cycles. Jurgen Klinsmann certainly knows this as he has been forced to reach overseas to Germany without much success either and the eventual successor to Landon Donovan and others appears no closer on the horizon either, forcing Graham Zusi into the breach with less than acceptable results on an international stage. We look back at the 2009 Confederations Cup team, with nearly four years approaching, and examine whether the US program is indeed regressing since that night against Brazil on the center stage of world football. The answer should not shock you, and really puts into stark focus the job Bob Bradley did for US Soccer and the massive challenge ahead for Jurgen Klinsmann and his staff. As Major League Soccer itself continues to increase the number of foreign players, as more and more of the top college players themselves are foreign born talent entering the SuperDraft, massive questions need to be asked about where the next generation of national team players will be developed, if the standard can reach another new level and if what we are seeing from Honduras is the shape of things to come. The dress rehearsal match against Canada in January is yet one more indicator that this next cycle could spell trouble for a talent pool not getting younger and decreasing quality standard when compared to the other top 20 national teams in the world. The United States should qualify with plenty to spare, given that it is CONCACAF, but that appears to be the only achievement based on the evidence at hand. Thu, 07 Feb 2013 17:33:00 GMT 34:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02072013.mls.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/07/inside-mls-honduran-standoff/ Beyond The Pitch Investigative journalist, author and leading academic in the field of organized crime and matching fixing Declan Hill joins the show to discuss recent developments in a international law enforcement case where 680 matches have been alleged to have been fixed, both at the professional club and national team level worldwide. At the epicenter of this is a stunning press conference at the tail end of Operation Veto by Europol in which a series of criminals, operatives, officials and even players have been discovered to have links to a vast underground network of fraudulent betting schemes with links to Singapore and notorious figure named Dan Tan. This 19 month investigation has uncovered millions in profits, payouts and bribes and Declan helps us navigate the waters against the landscape of his best-selling book, The Fix, in which much of the scheme and organizations had been profiled and their methods described. None of this is new to the informed or Declan himself who first appeared on this show to explain how the Far East betting market was making moves nearly a decade ago and now an even bigger problem has washed up on the shores of European football including its highest level with the Champions League. Explored here is whether the FIFA Early Warning System has flaws and had left the scope of the problem virtually undetectable, why Dan Tan continues to avoid arrest given the international warrants outstanding, whether former integrity officer at FIFA, Chris Eaton, was marginalized and how football has continued to tolerate this problem to fester through its own inertia and inaction, choosing to offer more platitudes that real steps toward addressing this cancer on the most popular sport in the world. Match-fixing has now shown up in the backyard of FIFA and UEFA headquarters in Switzerland and now in the UK, so past ignorance and media-fueld perceptions that the match-fixing exists in lesser leagues has been handed a rude awakening. We examine whether law enforcement or football administrators have received the wake up call at last, the answer might not surprise most football fans, but leave little doubt that the problem is beyond anything once imagined. Investigative journalist, author and leading academic in the field of organized crime and matching fixing Declan Hill joins the show to discuss recent developments in a international law enforcement case where 680 matches have been alleged to have be Investigative journalist, author and leading academic in the field of organized crime and matching fixing Declan Hill joins the show to discuss recent developments in a international law enforcement case where 680 matches have been alleged to have been fixed, both at the professional club and national team level worldwide. At the epicenter of this is a stunning press conference at the tail end of Operation Veto by Europol in which a series of criminals, operatives, officials and even players have been discovered to have links to a vast underground network of fraudulent betting schemes with links to Singapore and notorious figure named Dan Tan. This 19 month investigation has uncovered millions in profits, payouts and bribes and Declan helps us navigate the waters against the landscape of his best-selling book, The Fix, in which much of the scheme and organizations had been profiled and their methods described. None of this is new to the informed or Declan himself who first appeared on this show to explain how the Far East betting market was making moves nearly a decade ago and now an even bigger problem has washed up on the shores of European football including its highest level with the Champions League. Explored here is whether the FIFA Early Warning System has flaws and had left the scope of the problem virtually undetectable, why Dan Tan continues to avoid arrest given the international warrants outstanding, whether former integrity officer at FIFA, Chris Eaton, was marginalized and how football has continued to tolerate this problem to fester through its own inertia and inaction, choosing to offer more platitudes that real steps toward addressing this cancer on the most popular sport in the world. Match-fixing has now shown up in the backyard of FIFA and UEFA headquarters in Switzerland and now in the UK, so past ignorance and media-fueld perceptions that the match-fixing exists in lesser leagues has been handed a rude awakening. We examine whether law enforcement or football administrators have received the wake up call at last, the answer might not surprise most football fans, but leave little doubt that the problem is beyond anything once imagined. Wed, 06 Feb 2013 18:03:00 GMT 24:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02062013.declan.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/06/declan-hill/ Beyond The Pitch Football commentator and correspondent Gabriele Marcotti joins us to take a look at the picture perfect debut on Sunday at San Siro to bring to a close a first whirlwind week of SuperMario Mania in Milan where the match may have ended on a controversial note, but served up what seems to be a rejuvenated Milan now in striking distance of top three, once thought to be improbable several weeks ago. Once again, the player in this Serie A mercato was Mino Raiola who delivered one of his prized clients to the Rossoneri after a very complex negotiation with Manchester City and presents Balotelli with his best chance yet for success, paired alongside forwards El Shaarawy and Niang, forming what could become the most dynamic front lines in football averaging 20 years of age. We also venture into the matter of top three where Lazio, Inter, Milan and Fiorentina all seem the most viable candidates and examine how each dealt with this marketplace and crystallize what really has become an unpredictable season with so much transition in Serie A. Also looked at here is the battle at the top between Juventus and Napoli, which may in fact come down to whether Edinson Cavani can deliver and take this title. In the second half of this episode we examine the fall of Zeman in his second tenure at AS Roma and try to pull together the factors that led to his demise as they were not always about the results, but about decisions with personnel that got no bigger than his long-running stubbornness in the matter of Daniele De Rossi. Then we close on the matter of Palermo at the bottom of the table and how its abrasive and bombastic owner, Mouricio Zamparini, may finally pay for the many seasons of calamity and controversy after having pushed the panic button during the winter transfer window with many players moving in and out of this roster, much like a supermarket with very little of a plan still in appearance and yet another manager sacked after a massive loss to Atalanta. Football commentator and correspondent Gabriele Marcotti joins us to take a look at the picture perfect debut on Sunday at San Siro to bring to a close a first whirlwind week of SuperMario Mania in Milan where the match may have ended on a controvers Football commentator and correspondent Gabriele Marcotti joins us to take a look at the picture perfect debut on Sunday at San Siro to bring to a close a first whirlwind week of SuperMario Mania in Milan where the match may have ended on a controversial note, but served up what seems to be a rejuvenated Milan now in striking distance of top three, once thought to be improbable several weeks ago. Once again, the player in this Serie A mercato was Mino Raiola who delivered one of his prized clients to the Rossoneri after a very complex negotiation with Manchester City and presents Balotelli with his best chance yet for success, paired alongside forwards El Shaarawy and Niang, forming what could become the most dynamic front lines in football averaging 20 years of age. We also venture into the matter of top three where Lazio, Inter, Milan and Fiorentina all seem the most viable candidates and examine how each dealt with this marketplace and crystallize what really has become an unpredictable season with so much transition in Serie A. Also looked at here is the battle at the top between Juventus and Napoli, which may in fact come down to whether Edinson Cavani can deliver and take this title. In the second half of this episode we examine the fall of Zeman in his second tenure at AS Roma and try to pull together the factors that led to his demise as they were not always about the results, but about decisions with personnel that got no bigger than his long-running stubbornness in the matter of Daniele De Rossi. Then we close on the matter of Palermo at the bottom of the table and how its abrasive and bombastic owner, Mouricio Zamparini, may finally pay for the many seasons of calamity and controversy after having pushed the panic button during the winter transfer window with many players moving in and out of this roster, much like a supermarket with very little of a plan still in appearance and yet another manager sacked after a massive loss to Atalanta. Sun, 03 Feb 2013 20:03:00 GMT 34:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02032013.gab.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/03/gabriele-marcotti/ Beyond The Pitch German football correspondent and historian Uli Hesse makes another triumphant return to take a look at the many positive trailing indicators in full bloom for the Bundesliga including its most treasured and trumpeted arrival in the name and figure of Pep Guardiola, who will become manager of Bayern Munich for the 2013-14 campaign. There is much to discuss as we consider the rising tide of German football, its growing reputation and what exactly its ceiling could be given the current state of its revenue model and lagging international TV rights earnings when compared to England, Italy and Spain - if only, briefly - as three clubs find themselves in the Champions League group stage, providing Germany its best chance of a European champion in some time. We examine the emergence of Borussia Dortmund as a case study, how the club views its goals against the European and domestic landscape, how the view is changing and whether this increased profile at Bayern and Dortmund will eventually surrender to forces willing to capitalize upon this popularity in raw earnings or whether the continued model and fan experience can remain in tact. We discuss these factors and circle back to the arrival of Guardiola, the boldness of the challenge and whether the old ghosts that plagued Louis van Gaal and Giovanni Trapattoni might actually catch up with him as well given the larger forces at work inside the Bayern changing room and the board room. Will the old ghosts of FC Hollywood emerge again or could it be a new turning point for the Bavarian giants - appears to be little middle ground with such an appointment. This is a big test for both Bayern Munich and Pep Guardiola which shall be quite interesting to observe in the months ahead. We also touch on each of the German teams in the knockout rounds, where they stand in relationship to the trophy and whether Bayern, as usual, sits in pole position to deliver on the double at the very least. German football correspondent and historian Uli Hesse makes another triumphant return to take a look at the many positive trailing indicators in full bloom for the Bundesliga including its most treasured and trumpeted arrival in the name and figure o German football correspondent and historian Uli Hesse makes another triumphant return to take a look at the many positive trailing indicators in full bloom for the Bundesliga including its most treasured and trumpeted arrival in the name and figure of Pep Guardiola, who will become manager of Bayern Munich for the 2013-14 campaign. There is much to discuss as we consider the rising tide of German football, its growing reputation and what exactly its ceiling could be given the current state of its revenue model and lagging international TV rights earnings when compared to England, Italy and Spain - if only, briefly - as three clubs find themselves in the Champions League group stage, providing Germany its best chance of a European champion in some time. We examine the emergence of Borussia Dortmund as a case study, how the club views its goals against the European and domestic landscape, how the view is changing and whether this increased profile at Bayern and Dortmund will eventually surrender to forces willing to capitalize upon this popularity in raw earnings or whether the continued model and fan experience can remain in tact. We discuss these factors and circle back to the arrival of Guardiola, the boldness of the challenge and whether the old ghosts that plagued Louis van Gaal and Giovanni Trapattoni might actually catch up with him as well given the larger forces at work inside the Bayern changing room and the board room. Will the old ghosts of FC Hollywood emerge again or could it be a new turning point for the Bavarian giants - appears to be little middle ground with such an appointment. This is a big test for both Bayern Munich and Pep Guardiola which shall be quite interesting to observe in the months ahead. We also touch on each of the German teams in the knockout rounds, where they stand in relationship to the trophy and whether Bayern, as usual, sits in pole position to deliver on the double at the very least. Sat, 02 Feb 2013 22:03:00 GMT 37:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP02022013.uli.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/02/02/uli-hesse/ Beyond The Pitch Oliver Kay of The Times joins at a key point of the season as the transfer window closes and the league approaches its final, most important third of the season where only two of the top 12 teams in the table were able to collect three points at midweek. Surely this was a key checkpoint as questions still linger for what was once thought two major contenders in Manchester City and Chelsea who stumbled with what seemed almost predictable draws and an Everton team which continues to pass the important tests and finds itself undisturbed by key transfers going out and remains as healthy as could be best expected. Also in the focal point are Arsenal and Liverpool who battled to a somewhat predictable draw at the Emirates and left even more questions than answers, but of little doubt is Manchester United at the top with two unyielding talking points: an air of inevitability and the ongoing questions about first team goalkeeper David De Gea who continues to produce as many doubts as he does victories, not for this league title, but maybe what he might reveal in the key stages of the Champions League. Oli has some key insight into what his future may bring and provides a bit of insight from Old Trafford into what has been a problem for United this season, the ability to allow cheap goals that could haunt them in Europe. Also in focus here is the ongoing dress rehearsal for Rafa Benitez at Chelsea and two very valuable points squandered at Reading and whether a tipping has been reached for the Blues already, whether David Moyes has the squad to break through into that top four at last and what next for an Aston Villa team that appears headed for free fall if not relegation in the end. We also check in on the problems for Manchester City who continue to stay close to United, but just seem to lack that ability to find the goals when they matter against smaller clubs. Loads covered here in terms of trends and patterns that have emerged this season and whether they might just define a rather uneven season in the weeks and months ahead. Oliver Kay of The Times joins at a key point of the season as the transfer window closes and the league approaches its final, most important third of the season where only two of the top 12 teams in the table were able to collect three points at midw Oliver Kay of The Times joins at a key point of the season as the transfer window closes and the league approaches its final, most important third of the season where only two of the top 12 teams in the table were able to collect three points at midweek. Surely this was a key checkpoint as questions still linger for what was once thought two major contenders in Manchester City and Chelsea who stumbled with what seemed almost predictable draws and an Everton team which continues to pass the important tests and finds itself undisturbed by key transfers going out and remains as healthy as could be best expected. Also in the focal point are Arsenal and Liverpool who battled to a somewhat predictable draw at the Emirates and left even more questions than answers, but of little doubt is Manchester United at the top with two unyielding talking points: an air of inevitability and the ongoing questions about first team goalkeeper David De Gea who continues to produce as many doubts as he does victories, not for this league title, but maybe what he might reveal in the key stages of the Champions League. Oli has some key insight into what his future may bring and provides a bit of insight from Old Trafford into what has been a problem for United this season, the ability to allow cheap goals that could haunt them in Europe. Also in focus here is the ongoing dress rehearsal for Rafa Benitez at Chelsea and two very valuable points squandered at Reading and whether a tipping has been reached for the Blues already, whether David Moyes has the squad to break through into that top four at last and what next for an Aston Villa team that appears headed for free fall if not relegation in the end. We also check in on the problems for Manchester City who continue to stay close to United, but just seem to lack that ability to find the goals when they matter against smaller clubs. Loads covered here in terms of trends and patterns that have emerged this season and whether they might just define a rather uneven season in the weeks and months ahead. Thu, 31 Jan 2013 23:03:00 GMT 42:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01312013.oli.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/31/oliver-kay/ Beyond The Pitch MUTV pundit and Manchester United legend Mickey Thomas joins the show to give us his take on the long term investment on Crystal Palace striker Wilfried Zaha, the two pronged difference of Robin Van Persie and the return of a healthy Nemanja Vidic to the squad as Sir Alex looks to reclaim a title lost a season ago on the narrowest of margins, goal difference. We also preview the glamour tie that will mark the return of Cristiano Ronaldo to Old Trafford and how Fergie might view that all important first leg away at Real Madrid given that the reigning Spanish champions seem to have reclaimed a bit of form of late. Mickey has some very pointed words in his defence of goalkeeper David De Gea, what we should or could expect from first year signing Shinji Kagawa at the business end of the season, weighs in on the nature of media pressure and expectations on players and even gives his opinion on what happens the day Sir Alex walks away from the football club. Little known is how Mickey moved to the United States where he played for the Wichita Wings of the Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL), when indoor soccer was at its height when traditional outdoor version of football went into hibernation with the collapse of the NASL. He played in Wichita, Kansas for two seasons before moving back to Wales where he played for various other teams in the English League and returning to Wrexham in 1991, where in a highly memorable FA Cup defeat of Arsenal in 1992, the then 37-year-old Mickey Thomas scored on a laser beam of a free kick. Mickey has a tremendous personal story and his value to the discussion today on media, fan culture and sport is hugely important given the perspective he provides. MUTV pundit and Manchester United legend Mickey Thomas joins the show to give us his take on the long term investment on Crystal Palace striker Wilfried Zaha, the two pronged difference of Robin Van Persie and the return of a healthy Nemanja Vidic to MUTV pundit and Manchester United legend Mickey Thomas joins the show to give us his take on the long term investment on Crystal Palace striker Wilfried Zaha, the two pronged difference of Robin Van Persie and the return of a healthy Nemanja Vidic to the squad as Sir Alex looks to reclaim a title lost a season ago on the narrowest of margins, goal difference. We also preview the glamour tie that will mark the return of Cristiano Ronaldo to Old Trafford and how Fergie might view that all important first leg away at Real Madrid given that the reigning Spanish champions seem to have reclaimed a bit of form of late. Mickey has some very pointed words in his defence of goalkeeper David De Gea, what we should or could expect from first year signing Shinji Kagawa at the business end of the season, weighs in on the nature of media pressure and expectations on players and even gives his opinion on what happens the day Sir Alex walks away from the football club. Little known is how Mickey moved to the United States where he played for the Wichita Wings of the Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL), when indoor soccer was at its height when traditional outdoor version of football went into hibernation with the collapse of the NASL. He played in Wichita, Kansas for two seasons before moving back to Wales where he played for various other teams in the English League and returning to Wrexham in 1991, where in a highly memorable FA Cup defeat of Arsenal in 1992, the then 37-year-old Mickey Thomas scored on a laser beam of a free kick. Mickey has a tremendous personal story and his value to the discussion today on media, fan culture and sport is hugely important given the perspective he provides. Wed, 30 Jan 2013 18:03:00 GMT 26:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01312013.mick.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/30/mickey-thomas/ Beyond The Pitch James Dorsey of Senior Fellow at the Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore makes his second appearance on the show to help us break down the situation after renewed violence erupted in the wake of a number of death sentences handed down from the Egyptian judiciary in response to the incident at Port Said. The accused Al-Masry fans were charged in the deaths of 74 fans from Al-Ahly soccer club during a match in Port Said last February, a day after the two year anniversary of the revolution that toppled former President Hosni Mubarak. James provides the kind of deep dive analysis and insight into this tragedy, the challenges and objectives of a post-revolutionary government struggling to reform its institutions and how long-standing perceptions both in terms of that judiciary and the security forces help shape public opinion and deep seated internal turmoil based on decades of repression. We examine how the issues in Egypt will serve as a series of challenges for the Morsi government and what some of the options may be while also being cognizant of the prejudices and historical comparisons with another Muslim country in Turkey where actual reform and serious change took not years, but decades itself. We also examine the concept of what dignity looks like for the ultras and protesters in the street, how perception can only be altered after many deeds over a long period of time and why Morsi will have some key domestic choices and international relationships to manage in the coming months. These measures would seem to include new legislation that would enforce independence of public prosecutors and separate them from investigative authorities, an independent commission to investigate cases of death and serious injury caused by police and security forces, while regulating the use of force and firearms in a nation left largely broken on the heels of revolution. We close on the matter of examining what steps Morsi and the government could do to avert further riots and demonstrations on March 9th, when the sentencing of another 54 defendants is handed down, including the former officers. As always, there are few that can provide the level of context and perspective that James Dorsey can, so if you want to seriously understand the ramifications inside the country, this is a serious subject matter expert with some fabulous insight. James Dorsey of Senior Fellow at the Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore makes his second appearance on the show to help us break down the situation after renewed violence erupted in the wake of a number of death sentences handed James Dorsey of Senior Fellow at the Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore makes his second appearance on the show to help us break down the situation after renewed violence erupted in the wake of a number of death sentences handed down from the Egyptian judiciary in response to the incident at Port Said. The accused Al-Masry fans were charged in the deaths of 74 fans from Al-Ahly soccer club during a match in Port Said last February, a day after the two year anniversary of the revolution that toppled former President Hosni Mubarak. James provides the kind of deep dive analysis and insight into this tragedy, the challenges and objectives of a post-revolutionary government struggling to reform its institutions and how long-standing perceptions both in terms of that judiciary and the security forces help shape public opinion and deep seated internal turmoil based on decades of repression. We examine how the issues in Egypt will serve as a series of challenges for the Morsi government and what some of the options may be while also being cognizant of the prejudices and historical comparisons with another Muslim country in Turkey where actual reform and serious change took not years, but decades itself. We also examine the concept of what dignity looks like for the ultras and protesters in the street, how perception can only be altered after many deeds over a long period of time and why Morsi will have some key domestic choices and international relationships to manage in the coming months. These measures would seem to include new legislation that would enforce independence of public prosecutors and separate them from investigative authorities, an independent commission to investigate cases of death and serious injury caused by police and security forces, while regulating the use of force and firearms in a nation left largely broken on the heels of revolution. We close on the matter of examining what steps Morsi and the government could do to avert further riots and demonstrations on March 9th, when the sentencing of another 54 defendants is handed down, including the former officers. As always, there are few that can provide the level of context and perspective that James Dorsey can, so if you want to seriously understand the ramifications inside the country, this is a serious subject matter expert with some fabulous insight. Sun, 27 Jan 2013 13:03:00 GMT 36:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01292013.dorsey.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/27/james-dorsey/ Beyond The Pitch Daniel Geey of the Competition and EU Regulatory Law Group at Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP joins up again with Anto to talk through some of the regulatory issues facing third party ownership of players with an eye towards compliance with Financial Fair Play, while taking into account new energy around standardizing the rules from a recent initiative championed by Michel Platini, UEFA and its Professional Football Strategy Council. At the core of this episode is framing the debate between establishing a level set of rules across all of the European leagues while ensuring that smaller leagues and less powerful clubs can find sustainability and strike a competitive balance where not all leagues in the football world are equal. Both FIFA and UEFA have both issued strong statements against the practice of third party interests holding rights to players as there now appears to be a battle brewing between standardization in practice and application versus those clubs and interests who consider third party ownership a valuable economic tool to level the playing field. The questions and concerns posted here is whether prohibition is the answer as found in England and France today or whether balanced measures with new layers of accountability and transparency are the answer as both agents and leagues in countries such as Portugal, Spain, Holland and Belgium do use this strategy much like South American teams do today, while Italy uses another form of co-ownership between football clubs that may prove even more effective as tool given that it is the clubs themselves who negotiate the terms. We examine recent statements by UEFA President, Michel Platini, Portuguese super-agent Jorge Mendes and Rob Jansen, the chairman of the European Football Agents Association, to evaluate where the future for third party ownership might actually reside, and open the discussion into club-sponsored academies around the world which may themselves be hedge funds in another disguise. In the end, the episode gets into the many questions out there about the practice of third party, whether some form of this strategy does make sense in a Financial Fair Play world and if prohibition does appear to the only path forward. Daniel Geey of the Competition and EU Regulatory Law Group at Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP joins up again with Anto to talk through some of the regulatory issues facing third party ownership of players with an eye towards compliance with Financial Fai Daniel Geey of the Competition and EU Regulatory Law Group at Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP joins up again with Anto to talk through some of the regulatory issues facing third party ownership of players with an eye towards compliance with Financial Fair Play, while taking into account new energy around standardizing the rules from a recent initiative championed by Michel Platini, UEFA and its Professional Football Strategy Council. At the core of this episode is framing the debate between establishing a level set of rules across all of the European leagues while ensuring that smaller leagues and less powerful clubs can find sustainability and strike a competitive balance where not all leagues in the football world are equal. Both FIFA and UEFA have both issued strong statements against the practice of third party interests holding rights to players as there now appears to be a battle brewing between standardization in practice and application versus those clubs and interests who consider third party ownership a valuable economic tool to level the playing field. The questions and concerns posted here is whether prohibition is the answer as found in England and France today or whether balanced measures with new layers of accountability and transparency are the answer as both agents and leagues in countries such as Portugal, Spain, Holland and Belgium do use this strategy much like South American teams do today, while Italy uses another form of co-ownership between football clubs that may prove even more effective as tool given that it is the clubs themselves who negotiate the terms. We examine recent statements by UEFA President, Michel Platini, Portuguese super-agent Jorge Mendes and Rob Jansen, the chairman of the European Football Agents Association, to evaluate where the future for third party ownership might actually reside, and open the discussion into club-sponsored academies around the world which may themselves be hedge funds in another disguise. In the end, the episode gets into the many questions out there about the practice of third party, whether some form of this strategy does make sense in a Financial Fair Play world and if prohibition does appear to the only path forward. Fri, 25 Jan 2013 19:03:00 GMT 41:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01252013.geey.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/25/daniel-geey/ Beyond The Pitch Former Manchester United, Norwich City and Aston Villa striker Dian Dublin joins the show to explain the next exciting phase of his life as the inventor of a musical instrument called The Dube, which he has brought to The NAMM Show at the Anaheim Convention Center, one of the largest music product trade shows in the world and what went into its development. Dion gives us all the background on his new musical invention, how it came about, the many musicians including Stevie Wonder who have adopted it and endorse it and what his future plans are for marketing this percussive instrument. We also have the opportunity to dig back into his very rich career from his early days at Cambridge United and then to Old Trafford when Sir Alex Ferguson came calling and how his star crossed fortune paved the way for the arrival of Eric Cantona at a key juncture in club history just before the run of trophies began and gave birth to an era of dominance in football. Dion shares how he was recruited, why Manchester United won the battle for his services and even a look at Norwich today and whether Chris Hughton can guide the Canaries to the more difficult task of second year survival in the Premier League. We also examine the history of two devastating injuries that almost completely derailed his playing career, a broken leg against Crystal Palace after a tackle by Eric Young and a more serious neck injury that could have been life-altering and ultimately did not end his career while at Aston Villa. But this is a story as much about his passion for music as it is a love for football and Dion explains what has been behind bringing The Dube to life, production and wide-scale distribution. Check his thoughts on the defenders of his day, who was the toughest centre back he ever faced and his thoughts on Wilfried Zaha who appears headed to Old Trafford during this transfer window. The Dube is a stylish cube percussion instrument which comes in four sizes and can be totally customised in colour schemes and tones, ideal for musicians, in schools, even DJ sets, the list is endless. Musicians and drummers including Courtney Pine and Thomas Lang to name but two have trialled this instrument and recommend it. Former Manchester United, Norwich City and Aston Villa striker Dian Dublin joins the show to explain the next exciting phase of his life as the inventor of a musical instrument called The Dube, which he has brought to The NAMM Show at the Anaheim Con Former Manchester United, Norwich City and Aston Villa striker Dian Dublin joins the show to explain the next exciting phase of his life as the inventor of a musical instrument called The Dube, which he has brought to The NAMM Show at the Anaheim Convention Center, one of the largest music product trade shows in the world and what went into its development. Dion gives us all the background on his new musical invention, how it came about, the many musicians including Stevie Wonder who have adopted it and endorse it and what his future plans are for marketing this percussive instrument. We also have the opportunity to dig back into his very rich career from his early days at Cambridge United and then to Old Trafford when Sir Alex Ferguson came calling and how his star crossed fortune paved the way for the arrival of Eric Cantona at a key juncture in club history just before the run of trophies began and gave birth to an era of dominance in football. Dion shares how he was recruited, why Manchester United won the battle for his services and even a look at Norwich today and whether Chris Hughton can guide the Canaries to the more difficult task of second year survival in the Premier League. We also examine the history of two devastating injuries that almost completely derailed his playing career, a broken leg against Crystal Palace after a tackle by Eric Young and a more serious neck injury that could have been life-altering and ultimately did not end his career while at Aston Villa. But this is a story as much about his passion for music as it is a love for football and Dion explains what has been behind bringing The Dube to life, production and wide-scale distribution. Check his thoughts on the defenders of his day, who was the toughest centre back he ever faced and his thoughts on Wilfried Zaha who appears headed to Old Trafford during this transfer window. The Dube is a stylish cube percussion instrument which comes in four sizes and can be totally customised in colour schemes and tones, ideal for musicians, in schools, even DJ sets, the list is endless. Musicians and drummers including Courtney Pine and Thomas Lang to name but two have trialled this instrument and recommend it. Wed, 23 Jan 2013 20:03:00 GMT 25:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01232013.dion.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/23/dion-dublin/ Beyond The Pitch Belgian football expert and observer John Chapman makes his debut on the show where he gives us his view of the game in Belgium, both in the club ranks and with a national team that is considered among the serious up and coming challengers in the next two World Cup cycles if all goes according to expectation. At the center of this conversation is the emergence of a young, dynamic and deep class of Belgian players under head coach Marc Wilmots who have left their mark this season in a number of professional leagues across Europe and are locked in a 2014 Brazil Qualification fight with Croatia in Group A with a huge match perhaps being the fulcrum of this campaign in Zagreb in October. We examine whether the development cycle has substance or has been more a formula whereby a player cycle found unintended consequences and try to establish what the future looks like for the biggest clubs in Belgium as clubs from larger and more established leagues continue to raid this league for some truly quality talent. We also examine the transfer speculation surrounding Lucas Biglia and Dieudonné Mbokani and whether Anderlecht can sustain the overtures for their transfers during this winter period. Also discussed here is the emergence of Sacha Kljestan who has helped restore some of the midfield balance over a very important winning streak and a brief look at former player Roland Lamah who has sealed a move from Osasuna to Swansea City. John has a very interesting take on whether the window opening for the Belgian National Team has serious potential and whether Romelu Lukaku could be that player to take this generation to the destination where the biggest expectations currently reside. Belgian football expert and observer John Chapman makes his debut on the show where he gives us his view of the game in Belgium, both in the club ranks and with a national team that is considered among the serious up and coming challengers in the nex Belgian football expert and observer John Chapman makes his debut on the show where he gives us his view of the game in Belgium, both in the club ranks and with a national team that is considered among the serious up and coming challengers in the next two World Cup cycles if all goes according to expectation. At the center of this conversation is the emergence of a young, dynamic and deep class of Belgian players under head coach Marc Wilmots who have left their mark this season in a number of professional leagues across Europe and are locked in a 2014 Brazil Qualification fight with Croatia in Group A with a huge match perhaps being the fulcrum of this campaign in Zagreb in October. We examine whether the development cycle has substance or has been more a formula whereby a player cycle found unintended consequences and try to establish what the future looks like for the biggest clubs in Belgium as clubs from larger and more established leagues continue to raid this league for some truly quality talent. We also examine the transfer speculation surrounding Lucas Biglia and Dieudonné Mbokani and whether Anderlecht can sustain the overtures for their transfers during this winter period. Also discussed here is the emergence of Sacha Kljestan who has helped restore some of the midfield balance over a very important winning streak and a brief look at former player Roland Lamah who has sealed a move from Osasuna to Swansea City. John has a very interesting take on whether the window opening for the Belgian National Team has serious potential and whether Romelu Lukaku could be that player to take this generation to the destination where the biggest expectations currently reside. Sun, 20 Jan 2013 10:03:00 GMT 20:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01202012.belgo.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/20/john-chapman/ Beyond The Pitch Football writer and biographer Philippe Auclair joins us on a rather interesting discussion that begins on the topic of Thierry Henry, the primary figure of a new book penned by Philippe on the much misunderstood star that has been Henry throughout his career. We explore his place in that period of time in the late 1990s and early 2000s when a young French striker led two revolutions though his brilliance, both for the French National Team and at Arsenal FC with Arsene Wenger as the Premier League grew into maturity and Henry became its most bankable star as the Invincibles soon defined excellence in this new league growing with fresh new stars. We get into the many facets of Thierry Henry, how his stardom and reaction to it was shaped at a very early period in his playing career, how he influenced an emerging American marketplace as the Premier League moved from its early adopter phase, interesting backroom details on a pre-contract that could never be fulfilled and how even today he is considered as remote or detached in the public eye, almost defying what we come to expect from transformative figures in the game. The conversation then turns to the matter of surprise package Lyon under Remi Garde who have over-performed this season and should eventually crack under the weight of talent and expense at PSG, what the longer term strategy is for clubs like Lyon and why there are serious concerns about the competitive landscape in Ligue 1 when only one team can spend and others continue to sell at precisely the right moment given market conditions. This conversation soon evolved into one of higher end football finance, whether UEFA Financial Fair Play in a French context will become a moot point given the QSI influence throughout French and continental football and whether the lessons learned here will soon apply throughout Europe given globalization and economic interests on a geo-political level where profits are not really what is at stake. Football in these circles is about influence and the sport is a proper vehicle on which to build real global influence with some of the largest organizations in the world of sport. We also examine the Younes Belhanda situation in the January transfer window, perhaps a deconstruction and selling off of important players at Montpellier less than a year removed from a remarkable Ligue 1 trophy and check in on Joey Barton at Marseille, one of the most interesting football stories of the year in one of the top football cities in France, if not Europe in total. Football writer and biographer Philippe Auclair joins us on a rather interesting discussion that begins on the topic of Thierry Henry, the primary figure of a new book penned by Philippe on the much misunderstood star that has been Henry throughout h Football writer and biographer Philippe Auclair joins us on a rather interesting discussion that begins on the topic of Thierry Henry, the primary figure of a new book penned by Philippe on the much misunderstood star that has been Henry throughout his career. We explore his place in that period of time in the late 1990s and early 2000s when a young French striker led two revolutions though his brilliance, both for the French National Team and at Arsenal FC with Arsene Wenger as the Premier League grew into maturity and Henry became its most bankable star as the Invincibles soon defined excellence in this new league growing with fresh new stars. We get into the many facets of Thierry Henry, how his stardom and reaction to it was shaped at a very early period in his playing career, how he influenced an emerging American marketplace as the Premier League moved from its early adopter phase, interesting backroom details on a pre-contract that could never be fulfilled and how even today he is considered as remote or detached in the public eye, almost defying what we come to expect from transformative figures in the game. The conversation then turns to the matter of surprise package Lyon under Remi Garde who have over-performed this season and should eventually crack under the weight of talent and expense at PSG, what the longer term strategy is for clubs like Lyon and why there are serious concerns about the competitive landscape in Ligue 1 when only one team can spend and others continue to sell at precisely the right moment given market conditions. This conversation soon evolved into one of higher end football finance, whether UEFA Financial Fair Play in a French context will become a moot point given the QSI influence throughout French and continental football and whether the lessons learned here will soon apply throughout Europe given globalization and economic interests on a geo-political level where profits are not really what is at stake. Football in these circles is about influence and the sport is a proper vehicle on which to build real global influence with some of the largest organizations in the world of sport. We also examine the Younes Belhanda situation in the January transfer window, perhaps a deconstruction and selling off of important players at Montpellier less than a year removed from a remarkable Ligue 1 trophy and check in on Joey Barton at Marseille, one of the most interesting football stories of the year in one of the top football cities in France, if not Europe in total. Sat, 19 Jan 2013 12:03:00 GMT 54:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01192013.auclair.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/19/philippe-auclair/ Beyond The Pitch Part two of the AFCON 2013 preview takes a look at each of the groups to look for match-ups, favorites, players who could catch fire and offer some predictions as to who could shake things up much like we saw a year ago when Zambia took home the trophy. Anto is joined by Ed Aarons once again, contributor to the BBC, The Sun and The Independent and always has some great insights in the African game. There are clear favorites, but there will always be those surprises and they will reveal themselves in several unheralded national teams in the form of Cape Verde, DR Congo, Algeria and maybe a bold deep challenge yet again by Mali. At the core of the discussion is three teams from North Africa, all of them with their weaknesses but seem poised to challenge each of their groups and could make some noise should they reach the knockout rounds. We examine the potential for the glamour match-up denied at year ago in Ivory Coast-Ghana, look for emerging stars that many have to see and even predict a couple of dark horse candidates should the favorites not break through again. This might be the swan song for Didier Drogba, but there are several key players who could shape 2013. In major talking points we look at Nigeria and some curious decisions with their roster, the upward trajectory for DR Congo, the real threat from Algeria and whether Tunisia can build on its success a year ago when they took Ghana to extra time in the quarterfinals. Expect the unexpected in South Africa and we will check back to see whether these predictions were correct. Part two of the AFCON 2013 preview takes a look at each of the groups to look for match-ups, favorites, players who could catch fire and offer some predictions as to who could shake things up much like we saw a year ago when Zambia took home the trop Part two of the AFCON 2013 preview takes a look at each of the groups to look for match-ups, favorites, players who could catch fire and offer some predictions as to who could shake things up much like we saw a year ago when Zambia took home the trophy. Anto is joined by Ed Aarons once again, contributor to the BBC, The Sun and The Independent and always has some great insights in the African game. There are clear favorites, but there will always be those surprises and they will reveal themselves in several unheralded national teams in the form of Cape Verde, DR Congo, Algeria and maybe a bold deep challenge yet again by Mali. At the core of the discussion is three teams from North Africa, all of them with their weaknesses but seem poised to challenge each of their groups and could make some noise should they reach the knockout rounds. We examine the potential for the glamour match-up denied at year ago in Ivory Coast-Ghana, look for emerging stars that many have to see and even predict a couple of dark horse candidates should the favorites not break through again. This might be the swan song for Didier Drogba, but there are several key players who could shape 2013. In major talking points we look at Nigeria and some curious decisions with their roster, the upward trajectory for DR Congo, the real threat from Algeria and whether Tunisia can build on its success a year ago when they took Ghana to extra time in the quarterfinals. Expect the unexpected in South Africa and we will check back to see whether these predictions were correct. Fri, 18 Jan 2013 12:03:00 GMT 26:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01182013.afcon.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/18/afcon-predictions/ Beyond The Pitch Manchester United legend and current MUTV in-studio pundit Paddy Crerand joins the show just before his 50th year of association with the football club, who will honor him in early February with a special presentation. Born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1939, and after six years with Celtic, on the fifth anniversary of the Munich air disaster, he signed for the Reds in 1963 and his commitment and contribution to United has become priceless ever since, as loyal to the cause now as he was the day he stepped out at Old Trafford. One of the most candid pundits out there today, Paddy offers his very unique perspective on the arrival of Robin Van Persie this season, why he so easily transitioned into the first team and embraced the culture at Manchester United and pay very close attention on his insights about Sir Alex Ferguson and whether he will ever actually retire given his continued passion and competitive nature and ability to find new challenges every season. We also examine how the culture at Manchester United is shaped, how the ability of a player is just as important as personality type and how that gets reflected in the return of former star players such Cristiano Ronaldo who will certainly receive a wonderful reception in the Champions League. We also discuss the return of Wayne Rooney to the first team after a slow start this season and if the arrival of Van Persie will change his position or place in the formation and how matters will get resolved to insure that these two key players can work out together as the bigger European nights are upon us starting in February. Paddy also gives us a recap of his infamous rants with sports radio in the UK and even weighs in on Scottish football, Gordon Strachan and so much more. Manchester United legend and current MUTV in-studio pundit Paddy Crerand joins the show just before his 50th year of association with the football club, who will honor him in early February with a special presentation. Born in Glasgow, Scotland in 19 Manchester United legend and current MUTV in-studio pundit Paddy Crerand joins the show just before his 50th year of association with the football club, who will honor him in early February with a special presentation. Born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1939, and after six years with Celtic, on the fifth anniversary of the Munich air disaster, he signed for the Reds in 1963 and his commitment and contribution to United has become priceless ever since, as loyal to the cause now as he was the day he stepped out at Old Trafford. One of the most candid pundits out there today, Paddy offers his very unique perspective on the arrival of Robin Van Persie this season, why he so easily transitioned into the first team and embraced the culture at Manchester United and pay very close attention on his insights about Sir Alex Ferguson and whether he will ever actually retire given his continued passion and competitive nature and ability to find new challenges every season. We also examine how the culture at Manchester United is shaped, how the ability of a player is just as important as personality type and how that gets reflected in the return of former star players such Cristiano Ronaldo who will certainly receive a wonderful reception in the Champions League. We also discuss the return of Wayne Rooney to the first team after a slow start this season and if the arrival of Van Persie will change his position or place in the formation and how matters will get resolved to insure that these two key players can work out together as the bigger European nights are upon us starting in February. Paddy also gives us a recap of his infamous rants with sports radio in the UK and even weighs in on Scottish football, Gordon Strachan and so much more. Thu, 17 Jan 2013 12:33:00 GMT 30:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01172013.paddy.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/17/paddy-crerand/ Beyond The Pitch Phil and Anto are joined by Gareth Roberts from Well Red Magazine to take a look at Liverpool Football Club at a key juncture of its season after a loss against Manchester United and facing the sum of its performances against the Premier League top ten has been less than proficient in 2012-13. This begins with where the process is under Brendan Rodgers in his first season, but also a point where young players are producing in terms of appearances but perhaps not always consistently with respect to directly impacting matches. Gareth helps us separate what supporters see in this edition of the club, take stock of what is going right for the club, placing the development in the context of a plan and examining what the organization has decided to do in its search for players and its overall personnel strategy. The great news is that Liverpool finds itself in a very important position as it stands today, a team that clearly has made positive strides, appears to have settled on a philosophy that can work at Anfield, but lacks a bit in the mentality department as the level between top six and top four is razor thin given the standard of the league. We examine the youth on the team sheet, the evolving nature of introducing young players into the mix, whether the transfer strategy simply needs to be confirmed with a bit of success or is this just a matter of time for the ideas to take root, given that the club itself has stressed that serious Champions League football is part of an overall longer term plan, ensuring that what is done this season at the club is considered a building block for future seasons, player acquisitions and overall progress. Gareth also helps us weigh in on the prevailing issue at Liverpool during this key period which is whether more pragmatism might just be the strategy given that an upcoming stretch of matches against the top ten will define where Liverpool finishes the season. Another wonderful discussion with a writer and club supporter deeply involved with the ins and outs of Liverpool as an important transition is underway. Phil and Anto are joined by Gareth Roberts from Well Red Magazine to take a look at Liverpool Football Club at a key juncture of its season after a loss against Manchester United and facing the sum of its performances against the Premier League top Phil and Anto are joined by Gareth Roberts from Well Red Magazine to take a look at Liverpool Football Club at a key juncture of its season after a loss against Manchester United and facing the sum of its performances against the Premier League top ten has been less than proficient in 2012-13. This begins with where the process is under Brendan Rodgers in his first season, but also a point where young players are producing in terms of appearances but perhaps not always consistently with respect to directly impacting matches. Gareth helps us separate what supporters see in this edition of the club, take stock of what is going right for the club, placing the development in the context of a plan and examining what the organization has decided to do in its search for players and its overall personnel strategy. The great news is that Liverpool finds itself in a very important position as it stands today, a team that clearly has made positive strides, appears to have settled on a philosophy that can work at Anfield, but lacks a bit in the mentality department as the level between top six and top four is razor thin given the standard of the league. We examine the youth on the team sheet, the evolving nature of introducing young players into the mix, whether the transfer strategy simply needs to be confirmed with a bit of success or is this just a matter of time for the ideas to take root, given that the club itself has stressed that serious Champions League football is part of an overall longer term plan, ensuring that what is done this season at the club is considered a building block for future seasons, player acquisitions and overall progress. Gareth also helps us weigh in on the prevailing issue at Liverpool during this key period which is whether more pragmatism might just be the strategy given that an upcoming stretch of matches against the top ten will define where Liverpool finishes the season. Another wonderful discussion with a writer and club supporter deeply involved with the ins and outs of Liverpool as an important transition is underway. Tue, 15 Jan 2013 17:03:00 GMT 45:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01142013.gareth.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/15/gareth-roberts/ Beyond The Pitch Anto is joined with football correspondent Ed Aarons for a part one of a preview for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in which we take a look at several of the big talking points that have surfaced as provisional and final squads have been submitted during the tune-up phase of national team preparation. Needless to say, a year removed from the surprising rise of Zambia and the Copper Bullets, many of the questions are a final audition for that remarkable dress rehearsal settled by single elimination penalties. At the core of the discussion is a window of opportunity closing for Didier Drogba with even more questions of this team than the last, a lesser talented Ghana side than 2012 with late scratch Andre Ayew of Olympique de Marseille as a massive loss to the cause, past stars continental level stars who have been pressured by their professional clubs to not attend this edition and whether this might just be a tournament for emerging stars such as Younes Belhanda of Morocco, Kwadwo Asamoah of the Black Stars and Tokelo Rantie of South Africa in front of the home fans. Questions are in abundance here about the return of Togo to the competition after a tragedy in 2010, if Mali can make that next step and if the shuffle of host nations with Libya might just give the Bafana Bafana another emotional awakening from tournaments past. This is the primer for a number of looks we will take at one of the great international tournaments kicking off on 19 January. Anto is joined with football correspondent Ed Aarons for a part one of a preview for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in which we take a look at several of the big talking points that have surfaced as provisional and final squads have been submitted du Anto is joined with football correspondent Ed Aarons for a part one of a preview for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in which we take a look at several of the big talking points that have surfaced as provisional and final squads have been submitted during the tune-up phase of national team preparation. Needless to say, a year removed from the surprising rise of Zambia and the Copper Bullets, many of the questions are a final audition for that remarkable dress rehearsal settled by single elimination penalties. At the core of the discussion is a window of opportunity closing for Didier Drogba with even more questions of this team than the last, a lesser talented Ghana side than 2012 with late scratch Andre Ayew of Olympique de Marseille as a massive loss to the cause, past stars continental level stars who have been pressured by their professional clubs to not attend this edition and whether this might just be a tournament for emerging stars such as Younes Belhanda of Morocco, Kwadwo Asamoah of the Black Stars and Tokelo Rantie of South Africa in front of the home fans. Questions are in abundance here about the return of Togo to the competition after a tragedy in 2010, if Mali can make that next step and if the shuffle of host nations with Libya might just give the Bafana Bafana another emotional awakening from tournaments past. This is the primer for a number of looks we will take at one of the great international tournaments kicking off on 19 January. Mon, 14 Jan 2013 21:15:00 GMT 25:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01142013.afcon.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/14/afcon2013-preview-ed-aarons/ Beyond The Pitch Anto is joined by a very special guest who has a tremendous view of one of the most important influences in the game due to his concepts and ideas on football that were once considered revolutionary or unacceptable within the sport. Michel Mommertz began his football career inside Dutch Football, became the youngest player in history signed to a professional contract, and after injuries cut his playing days short would become the right hand man to legendary youth team guru and abstract thinker Wiel Coerver in his most early days before he became known as a popular brand and gained wide-scale acceptance. In fact, it was during these days when Coerver was largely rejected and pushed aside by conventional wisdom in the Netherlands where it was largely believed that existing methods were already cutting edge based on its own tradition of success on the heels of its Total Football era. As a former defender who came up through the Dutch National system, played at a number of clubs in both Holland and in the Far East, Michel soon follows Coerver off to Dubai where the and the legend develop some of the first youth academies in the Gulf States for Dubai based club Al Wasl and where the bulk of the Coerver theories come to life at last. What makes this episode so special is that Michel was among the first assistants to work intimately alongside Coerver, understands the full range of his challenge for acceptance in the main stream, what made the man tick and why he was so compelled with his vision. Also revealed here is the many layers of work Coerver completed beyond what we know today in the marketplace and why what is not known about this work will reshape what we think of Coerver once the intermediate, advanced and experimental exercises are released. You will also learn that some of this work is underway in the Far East with a company called Sports 3D where some next-generation applications are being assembled today to revolutionize how young players and even clubs and federations will approach the very concept of youth development in the coming years. Not only is Michel one of the top Coerver experts in the game today, but also has his KNVB coaching licenses TC 3 and TC 2 equivalent to UEFA B and has been a youth coach for 23 years and conducts football skill clinics around the world. Featured in this episode is also his opinions on the obstacles to successful youth development today, how parents complicate the process, why technology looks to be the right answer longer term as coaches are becoming less and less important over ideas and devices and we even make a pitstop to discuss the days of Diego Maradona at Al Wasl last season, another wonderful moment to revisit a playing legend in this sport. Anto is joined by a very special guest who has a tremendous view of one of the most important influences in the game due to his concepts and ideas on football that were once considered revolutionary or unacceptable within the sport. Michel Mommertz Anto is joined by a very special guest who has a tremendous view of one of the most important influences in the game due to his concepts and ideas on football that were once considered revolutionary or unacceptable within the sport. Michel Mommertz began his football career inside Dutch Football, became the youngest player in history signed to a professional contract, and after injuries cut his playing days short would become the right hand man to legendary youth team guru and abstract thinker Wiel Coerver in his most early days before he became known as a popular brand and gained wide-scale acceptance. In fact, it was during these days when Coerver was largely rejected and pushed aside by conventional wisdom in the Netherlands where it was largely believed that existing methods were already cutting edge based on its own tradition of success on the heels of its Total Football era. As a former defender who came up through the Dutch National system, played at a number of clubs in both Holland and in the Far East, Michel soon follows Coerver off to Dubai where the and the legend develop some of the first youth academies in the Gulf States for Dubai based club Al Wasl and where the bulk of the Coerver theories come to life at last. What makes this episode so special is that Michel was among the first assistants to work intimately alongside Coerver, understands the full range of his challenge for acceptance in the main stream, what made the man tick and why he was so compelled with his vision. Also revealed here is the many layers of work Coerver completed beyond what we know today in the marketplace and why what is not known about this work will reshape what we think of Coerver once the intermediate, advanced and experimental exercises are released. You will also learn that some of this work is underway in the Far East with a company called Sports 3D where some next-generation applications are being assembled today to revolutionize how young players and even clubs and federations will approach the very concept of youth development in the coming years. Not only is Michel one of the top Coerver experts in the game today, but also has his KNVB coaching licenses TC 3 and TC 2 equivalent to UEFA B and has been a youth coach for 23 years and conducts football skill clinics around the world. Featured in this episode is also his opinions on the obstacles to successful youth development today, how parents complicate the process, why technology looks to be the right answer longer term as coaches are becoming less and less important over ideas and devices and we even make a pitstop to discuss the days of Diego Maradona at Al Wasl last season, another wonderful moment to revisit a playing legend in this sport. Sun, 13 Jan 2013 13:03:00 GMT 54:50 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01132013.mommertz.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/13/michel-mommertz/ Beyond The Pitch Anto is joined by Spanish football correspondent Sid Lowe to take a deeper look at the smoldering aftermath of the Jose Mourinho clash with Real Madrid captain Iker Casillas to examine its scope and ramifications and motivations cast against the current competitive landscape facing the club in its quest for a tenth Champions League trophy, an almost obsession. We examine the gears, the Mourinho history and formula and what is at stake to determine if his recent tactics in benching his famous goalkeeper has some important logic to it. We look into the core of the Real Madrid squad where three important Spanish players all have huge roles on this team and dig into how exactly Jose Mourinho would be able to manage this set of players given their world reputation and the scope of their achievements. This is the kind of changing room that Mourinho has never dealt with before, and given their scope, the logic behind some of the drastic managerial tactics are as much as a reflection of the desperate situation and the size of the challenge before this team if it hopes to win that tenth trophy. This is also a clear reflection of a kind of playbook Mourinho where he has revealed an aggressive, deliberately confrontational approach as the final days were upon him. This occurred at Chelsea, at Inter and only now plays itself as explosive only because this is Real Madrid and these are hugely successful Spanish national team players who come together with Barcelona players to reach their objectives. We also examine the Barca ramifications from his history, whether he can only win battles with Barcelona and not the war and whether what we ultimately learn for his career, beyond the trophies, is what Mourinho tells us about each of the football cultures in which he performed. Also discussed here is the challenge for Malaga in the transfer window, a surprising surge for Rayo Vallecano and a follow up on the Real Mallorca story now that its president, Jaume Cladera, has resigned from his post and whether Joaquín Caparrós can keep them from relegation, which might even be more destructive than recent institutional and financial problems. Anto is joined by Spanish football correspondent Sid Lowe to take a deeper look at the smoldering aftermath of the Jose Mourinho clash with Real Madrid captain Iker Casillas to examine its scope and ramifications and motivations cast against the curr Anto is joined by Spanish football correspondent Sid Lowe to take a deeper look at the smoldering aftermath of the Jose Mourinho clash with Real Madrid captain Iker Casillas to examine its scope and ramifications and motivations cast against the current competitive landscape facing the club in its quest for a tenth Champions League trophy, an almost obsession. We examine the gears, the Mourinho history and formula and what is at stake to determine if his recent tactics in benching his famous goalkeeper has some important logic to it. We look into the core of the Real Madrid squad where three important Spanish players all have huge roles on this team and dig into how exactly Jose Mourinho would be able to manage this set of players given their world reputation and the scope of their achievements. This is the kind of changing room that Mourinho has never dealt with before, and given their scope, the logic behind some of the drastic managerial tactics are as much as a reflection of the desperate situation and the size of the challenge before this team if it hopes to win that tenth trophy. This is also a clear reflection of a kind of playbook Mourinho where he has revealed an aggressive, deliberately confrontational approach as the final days were upon him. This occurred at Chelsea, at Inter and only now plays itself as explosive only because this is Real Madrid and these are hugely successful Spanish national team players who come together with Barcelona players to reach their objectives. We also examine the Barca ramifications from his history, whether he can only win battles with Barcelona and not the war and whether what we ultimately learn for his career, beyond the trophies, is what Mourinho tells us about each of the football cultures in which he performed. Also discussed here is the challenge for Malaga in the transfer window, a surprising surge for Rayo Vallecano and a follow up on the Real Mallorca story now that its president, Jaume Cladera, has resigned from his post and whether Joaquín Caparrós can keep them from relegation, which might even be more destructive than recent institutional and financial problems. Wed, 09 Jan 2013 18:03:00 GMT 32:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01082013.sid.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/09/sid-lowe/ Beyond The Pitch Phil and Anto are joined by ESPN FC and Portland Timbers commentator on the heels of much discussion about the Kevin Prince Boateng incident and comments by FIFA President Sepp Blatter to get underneath the moving parts and what the ramifications appear to be and whether serious talk about racism can happen now that a huge moment has arrived. We discuss how unique and important this episode really is in the struggle for equality and racial justice, why the actions by an entire team and football organization the size of AC Milan are an important step and how the evolving nature of footballers as celebrity figures almost made this event inevitable. Robbie gives us his up-close experience with racism during his playing career, how racism takes on many forms within the game itself and exactly what can be expected of football clubs to police hate speech without leaving crowds themselves accountable. We also take on the power issue in racism and examine how exactly can serious and substantive change occur when the game itself has largely held people of color at arms length with respect to the positions of real power in the game. How can football administrators, managers and sporting directors affect change when there are too few representatives that reflect the wide range of diversity found in the player pool. In part two, we look back at two key Sunday FA Cup Third Round fixtures which reaffirmed two consistent themes this season, the ongoing controversy machine that has become Luis Suarez at Liverpool and our love-hate relationship with him and how Arsenal continues to reveal itself lacking at a key moment when they are expected to dig out a result or meet an objective such as find a win without forcing a replay. Phil and Anto are joined by ESPN FC and Portland Timbers commentator on the heels of much discussion about the Kevin Prince Boateng incident and comments by FIFA President Sepp Blatter to get underneath the moving parts and what the ramifications app Phil and Anto are joined by ESPN FC and Portland Timbers commentator on the heels of much discussion about the Kevin Prince Boateng incident and comments by FIFA President Sepp Blatter to get underneath the moving parts and what the ramifications appear to be and whether serious talk about racism can happen now that a huge moment has arrived. We discuss how unique and important this episode really is in the struggle for equality and racial justice, why the actions by an entire team and football organization the size of AC Milan are an important step and how the evolving nature of footballers as celebrity figures almost made this event inevitable. Robbie gives us his up-close experience with racism during his playing career, how racism takes on many forms within the game itself and exactly what can be expected of football clubs to police hate speech without leaving crowds themselves accountable. We also take on the power issue in racism and examine how exactly can serious and substantive change occur when the game itself has largely held people of color at arms length with respect to the positions of real power in the game. How can football administrators, managers and sporting directors affect change when there are too few representatives that reflect the wide range of diversity found in the player pool. In part two, we look back at two key Sunday FA Cup Third Round fixtures which reaffirmed two consistent themes this season, the ongoing controversy machine that has become Luis Suarez at Liverpool and our love-hate relationship with him and how Arsenal continues to reveal itself lacking at a key moment when they are expected to dig out a result or meet an objective such as find a win without forcing a replay. Mon, 07 Jan 2013 21:55:00 GMT 26:30 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01072013.robbie.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/07/robbie-earle/ Beyond The Pitch Phil and Anto are joined by former Aston Villa manager and current English football broadcaster John Gregory to take a deeper look into a number of key Premier League talking points including a moment to reflect on the job at hand for first year manager Paul Lambert at Villa Park, what he may have to do in this January window to address some clear needs at the back of the formation and if the former Norwich top man has the toughest job in the league at present. We examine the false dawn of the Liverpool result, several tough matches were defensive problems were in stark display and how the transformation of the club under his leadership will take a lot more time to gauge beyond the 21 match days already notched to date. Also in focus here is a discussion into the kind of signings that can help resuscitate a club when character players do not exist and how this, too, could help the battle that Lambert has on his hands with a number of players who are either too young to fully gel or players who have short futures with the team. We also get into the key signing of the season thus far in Robin Van Persie, its impact on Manchester United in the absence of Wayne Rooney and why RVP has made such a smooth and productive transition to his new club. We also have a look at the tremendous job Andre Villas-Boas has turned in at Tottenham after a slow start and how he is now defying expectations, how the players have bought into the plan and why perceptions about AVB are quickly evolving given how this unit has performed ahead of schedule. We also discuss the Alex McLeish appointment at Nottingham Forest that has already hit a snag of late and Rafa Benitez at Chelsea who has come into a rough situation and seems to have righted the ship in perhaps his last chance to manage a top budget club in football. John Gregory also says it like he sees it and gives a great bit of insight from the reference of a manager and has some very interesting things to say about the seven point Manchester United has at the moment, what Aston Villa should do next and the longer term ramifications of the Robin Van Persie deal and what it could deliver for Sir Alex Ferguson. Phil and Anto are joined by former Aston Villa manager and current English football broadcaster John Gregory to take a deeper look into a number of key Premier League talking points including a moment to reflect on the job at hand for first year mana Phil and Anto are joined by former Aston Villa manager and current English football broadcaster John Gregory to take a deeper look into a number of key Premier League talking points including a moment to reflect on the job at hand for first year manager Paul Lambert at Villa Park, what he may have to do in this January window to address some clear needs at the back of the formation and if the former Norwich top man has the toughest job in the league at present. We examine the false dawn of the Liverpool result, several tough matches were defensive problems were in stark display and how the transformation of the club under his leadership will take a lot more time to gauge beyond the 21 match days already notched to date. Also in focus here is a discussion into the kind of signings that can help resuscitate a club when character players do not exist and how this, too, could help the battle that Lambert has on his hands with a number of players who are either too young to fully gel or players who have short futures with the team. We also get into the key signing of the season thus far in Robin Van Persie, its impact on Manchester United in the absence of Wayne Rooney and why RVP has made such a smooth and productive transition to his new club. We also have a look at the tremendous job Andre Villas-Boas has turned in at Tottenham after a slow start and how he is now defying expectations, how the players have bought into the plan and why perceptions about AVB are quickly evolving given how this unit has performed ahead of schedule. We also discuss the Alex McLeish appointment at Nottingham Forest that has already hit a snag of late and Rafa Benitez at Chelsea who has come into a rough situation and seems to have righted the ship in perhaps his last chance to manage a top budget club in football. John Gregory also says it like he sees it and gives a great bit of insight from the reference of a manager and has some very interesting things to say about the seven point Manchester United has at the moment, what Aston Villa should do next and the longer term ramifications of the Robin Van Persie deal and what it could deliver for Sir Alex Ferguson. Sun, 06 Jan 2013 20:03:00 GMT 29:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01062013.gregory.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/06/john-gregory/ Beyond The Pitch Anto is joined by Times football correspondent Oliver Kay to take a deep look at the top four candidates of the English Premier League as the January transfer window has already claimed some reinforcements for what should be the main push at a key moment in the season. In focus from the start is a Manchester United seven point gap at the top with the Robin Van Persie factor looming very large, giving Sir Alex Ferguson a much more lethal team at the top of the formation than a year ago and seemingly unstoppable given the competition at the moment. Then we move directly across to Manchester City where the Roberto Mancini-Mario Balotelli relationship is at least in the crosshairs if not coming to a much needed conclusion and we examine whether now is finally the right time to end things before it damages both men inside the club as the collateral damage might just be a team of superstars who are left largely without accountability for their own shortcomings a season removed from its first Premier League title. We also discuss Chelsea on the heels of a shock loss to bottom dweller QPR and the Demba Ba acquisition, a Spurs team under Andre Villas-Boas who must be consider an overall surprise on balance given preseason expectations and whether Liverpool is done with its business already having signed Daniel Sturridge as much needed support at striker. We spend a bit of time dissecting the four year regression at Arsenal to explore whether the need to make some much needed players buys are at an all-time high and if Everton and David Moyes have enough in them to keep close and if the Toffees might have an even bigger challenge keeping this team together as competitors will be lurking for their best, cost-effective options. Oliver Kay offers loads on SuperMario, Roberto Mancini, Andre Villas-Boas, Arsene Wenger, David Moyes and a whole lot more in this checkpoint episode as the weekend action moves to FA Cup Third Round. Anto is joined by Times football correspondent Oliver Kay to take a deep look at the top four candidates of the English Premier League as the January transfer window has already claimed some reinforcements for what should be the main push at a key mo Anto is joined by Times football correspondent Oliver Kay to take a deep look at the top four candidates of the English Premier League as the January transfer window has already claimed some reinforcements for what should be the main push at a key moment in the season. In focus from the start is a Manchester United seven point gap at the top with the Robin Van Persie factor looming very large, giving Sir Alex Ferguson a much more lethal team at the top of the formation than a year ago and seemingly unstoppable given the competition at the moment. Then we move directly across to Manchester City where the Roberto Mancini-Mario Balotelli relationship is at least in the crosshairs if not coming to a much needed conclusion and we examine whether now is finally the right time to end things before it damages both men inside the club as the collateral damage might just be a team of superstars who are left largely without accountability for their own shortcomings a season removed from its first Premier League title. We also discuss Chelsea on the heels of a shock loss to bottom dweller QPR and the Demba Ba acquisition, a Spurs team under Andre Villas-Boas who must be consider an overall surprise on balance given preseason expectations and whether Liverpool is done with its business already having signed Daniel Sturridge as much needed support at striker. We spend a bit of time dissecting the four year regression at Arsenal to explore whether the need to make some much needed players buys are at an all-time high and if Everton and David Moyes have enough in them to keep close and if the Toffees might have an even bigger challenge keeping this team together as competitors will be lurking for their best, cost-effective options. Oliver Kay offers loads on SuperMario, Roberto Mancini, Andre Villas-Boas, Arsene Wenger, David Moyes and a whole lot more in this checkpoint episode as the weekend action moves to FA Cup Third Round. Thu, 03 Jan 2013 21:03:00 GMT 48:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01032013.oli.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/03/oliver-kay/ Beyond The Pitch Phil and Anto are joined by ESPN UK commentator Derek Rae to take a look at a broad range of topics including the state of the SPL this season without Rangers, the expected dominance of Celtic in their absence and how their success in the Champions League might be seen as a pathfinder for a new economic model for Scottish clubs longer term. We also touch on the remarkable job Neil Lennon has done with this team in Europe and whether speculation involving some of the younger, talented crop at Celtic Park can be retained throughout this transfer window, especially striker Gary Hooper who is attracting the most attention in this break. We also examine what could be waiting for Rangers in the near future, whether Scottish football will align to speed up this process and whether the holding pattern is the right path forward. Also discussed here is the dominance of Manchester United and Juventus in their respective leagues and whether any club can challenge them in the second half of the season. More here on Rafa Benitez at Chelsea, Paul Lambert at Aston Villa and Brendan Rodgers at Liverpool who all have their challenges in the months ahead and we examine whether each is the right man at the right time for their respective football clubs. Derek also weighs in on who might be the right candidate to replace Craig Levein as Scotland national team manager, what went wrong for him and what the next manager must be able to do seeing that Levein failed to deliver. In closing we look over a Serie A, another league that Derek tracks and follows closely, to look at very interesting season in Italy where younger players are becoming more and more part of the major discussion on a number of teams. In focus here is a league going under major transformation which exposes two major questions - whether the CHampions League is the only barometer now for Juventus and whether Italian football has now turned the corner from the destruction of Calciopoli and other scandals with a new generation of young Italians who are a real source of pride inside calcio. Phil and Anto are joined by ESPN UK commentator Derek Rae to take a look at a broad range of topics including the state of the SPL this season without Rangers, the expected dominance of Celtic in their absence and how their success in the Champions L Phil and Anto are joined by ESPN UK commentator Derek Rae to take a look at a broad range of topics including the state of the SPL this season without Rangers, the expected dominance of Celtic in their absence and how their success in the Champions League might be seen as a pathfinder for a new economic model for Scottish clubs longer term. We also touch on the remarkable job Neil Lennon has done with this team in Europe and whether speculation involving some of the younger, talented crop at Celtic Park can be retained throughout this transfer window, especially striker Gary Hooper who is attracting the most attention in this break. We also examine what could be waiting for Rangers in the near future, whether Scottish football will align to speed up this process and whether the holding pattern is the right path forward. Also discussed here is the dominance of Manchester United and Juventus in their respective leagues and whether any club can challenge them in the second half of the season. More here on Rafa Benitez at Chelsea, Paul Lambert at Aston Villa and Brendan Rodgers at Liverpool who all have their challenges in the months ahead and we examine whether each is the right man at the right time for their respective football clubs. Derek also weighs in on who might be the right candidate to replace Craig Levein as Scotland national team manager, what went wrong for him and what the next manager must be able to do seeing that Levein failed to deliver. In closing we look over a Serie A, another league that Derek tracks and follows closely, to look at very interesting season in Italy where younger players are becoming more and more part of the major discussion on a number of teams. In focus here is a league going under major transformation which exposes two major questions - whether the CHampions League is the only barometer now for Juventus and whether Italian football has now turned the corner from the destruction of Calciopoli and other scandals with a new generation of young Italians who are a real source of pride inside calcio. Tue, 01 Jan 2013 16:03:00 GMT 25:30 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP01012013.derek.m4a http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2013/01/01/derek-rae/ Beyond The Pitch Anto is joined by ChangeFIFA Co-Director and General Counsel David Larkin to take a look back at 2012 for the biggest story of the year and look ahead to 2013 with great hope that some movement can be realized in resolving many of the issues that both lead to the death of Diego Mendieta in Indonesia and what we discovered from the FIFPro Black Book last February. Simply put, the FIFPro Black Book of Eastern Europe is our big story of 2012 because for the first time the real and gritty truth about the lives of professional football players have been told in clear facts and given an honest look, including data on what percentage of them have been abused, left unpaid, threatened and even approached for match fixing. We begin, however, by closing the chapter on Mohammed Bin Hammam who had been damaged irrevocably by Sepp Blatter before the last election and examine whether his silence today is the greatest casualty from the whole affair, as his case before the Court for Arbitration for Sport clearly spells out. Nevertheless the real point of this episode is the bigger, more overriding issues uncovered by the FIFPro Black Book, what kind of information is presented within it and how it, too, has been largely marginalized over the year. But recent events in Indonesia have clearly opened the discussion once again as the many of the key elements which contributed to his demise were featured in the Black Book as huge collaborative factors. We examine what the data is telling us, how the factors all relate, how the vast football supporter culture is largely left unaware about these problems and how the top leadership class inside the game barely makes any move to address these issues, the very issues costing people their lives and the game its reputation as match-fixing feeds on these elements. Again, this is an end of year show where we look at this Big Story of 2012 quite like no other, measure the factors that are involved here and take the appropriate shots and distribute some much needed respect to a couple of news organizations who covered the FIFPro Black Book and the death of Diego Mendieta with the appropriate level of respect each story deserved. Anto is joined by ChangeFIFA Co-Director and General Counsel David Larkin to take a look back at 2012 for the biggest story of the year and look ahead to 2013 with great hope that some movement can be realized in resolving many of the issues that bot Anto is joined by ChangeFIFA Co-Director and General Counsel David Larkin to take a look back at 2012 for the biggest story of the year and look ahead to 2013 with great hope that some movement can be realized in resolving many of the issues that both lead to the death of Diego Mendieta in Indonesia and what we discovered from the FIFPro Black Book last February. Simply put, the FIFPro Black Book of Eastern Europe is our big story of 2012 because for the first time the real and gritty truth about the lives of professional football players have been told in clear facts and given an honest look, including data on what percentage of them have been abused, left unpaid, threatened and even approached for match fixing. We begin, however, by closing the chapter on Mohammed Bin Hammam who had been damaged irrevocably by Sepp Blatter before the last election and examine whether his silence today is the greatest casualty from the whole affair, as his case before the Court for Arbitration for Sport clearly spells out. Nevertheless the real point of this episode is the bigger, more overriding issues uncovered by the FIFPro Black Book, what kind of information is presented within it and how it, too, has been largely marginalized over the year. But recent events in Indonesia have clearly opened the discussion once again as the many of the key elements which contributed to his demise were featured in the Black Book as huge collaborative factors. We examine what the data is telling us, how the factors all relate, how the vast football supporter culture is largely left unaware about these problems and how the top leadership class inside the game barely makes any move to address these issues, the very issues costing people their lives and the game its reputation as match-fixing feeds on these elements. Again, this is an end of year show where we look at this Big Story of 2012 quite like no other, measure the factors that are involved here and take the appropriate shots and distribute some much needed respect to a couple of news organizations who covered the FIFPro Black Book and the death of Diego Mendieta with the appropriate level of respect each story deserved. Mon, 31 Dec 2012 16:03:00 GMT 46:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP12312012.change.m4a http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2012/12/31/david-larkin-change-fifa/ Beyond The Pitch Phil and Anto are joined by Sky News Sunrise and ITV This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes to have a bit of a discussion about Manchester United and his great friend Sir Alex Ferguson who celebrates his 71st birthday on New Years Eve. Topics include his life long support of the club, how the Manchester City dynamic has changed not only an important cross-city rivalry, but how it has altered and changed things for Manchester United, a hypothetical conversation on who could ever replace Sir Alex and just a massive Champions League evening ahead with Jose Mourinho and Cristiano Ronaldo as returning threats. Whether you are a club supporter or not, Eamonn has had a front row seat to this football giant since the days of George Best and has literally seen this organization emerge as a true power while still being able to hold on to some of the almost family aspect that is reserved for its leadership. How that ethos and environment will endure will be more for a different day to discuss, but what Eamonn gives us here is a truly one of a kind look at how Sir Alex Ferguson can be beyond the normal camera glare and gives his thoughts on cavalier football at the club during his tenure and whether it can continue in the many years ahead. Although wonderfully candid about practical things such as ownership and the future, this is more about the joy of the game and being a long-term supporter for a club that has not always been at the very top. Eamonn is mostly known for his work on UK television as a journalist and presenter of many years, starting with ITV presenting Farming Ulster and Good Evening Ulster on Ulster Television, GMTV, The Sports Show, and as the main co-presenter of This Morning and for the BBC, Open Air from Manchester, How Do They Do That? and the National Lottery quiz show Jet Set for BBC One, and was the host of the Sudo-Q quiz show. But he is also Manchester United at his core and this is all about the club. Phil and Anto are joined by Sky News Sunrise and ITV This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes to have a bit of a discussion about Manchester United and his great friend Sir Alex Ferguson who celebrates his 71st birthday on New Years Eve. Topics include h Phil and Anto are joined by Sky News Sunrise and ITV This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes to have a bit of a discussion about Manchester United and his great friend Sir Alex Ferguson who celebrates his 71st birthday on New Years Eve. Topics include his life long support of the club, how the Manchester City dynamic has changed not only an important cross-city rivalry, but how it has altered and changed things for Manchester United, a hypothetical conversation on who could ever replace Sir Alex and just a massive Champions League evening ahead with Jose Mourinho and Cristiano Ronaldo as returning threats. Whether you are a club supporter or not, Eamonn has had a front row seat to this football giant since the days of George Best and has literally seen this organization emerge as a true power while still being able to hold on to some of the almost family aspect that is reserved for its leadership. How that ethos and environment will endure will be more for a different day to discuss, but what Eamonn gives us here is a truly one of a kind look at how Sir Alex Ferguson can be beyond the normal camera glare and gives his thoughts on cavalier football at the club during his tenure and whether it can continue in the many years ahead. Although wonderfully candid about practical things such as ownership and the future, this is more about the joy of the game and being a long-term supporter for a club that has not always been at the very top. Eamonn is mostly known for his work on UK television as a journalist and presenter of many years, starting with ITV presenting Farming Ulster and Good Evening Ulster on Ulster Television, GMTV, The Sports Show, and as the main co-presenter of This Morning and for the BBC, Open Air from Manchester, How Do They Do That? and the National Lottery quiz show Jet Set for BBC One, and was the host of the Sudo-Q quiz show. But he is also Manchester United at his core and this is all about the club. Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:03:00 GMT 40:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP12292012.eamonn.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2012/12/28/eamonn-holmes/ Beyond The Pitch Phil and Anto are both on hand for a year-end episode of Prime Time Football with ESPN FC Press Pass analyst Janusz Michallik who helps us break down many of the key stories that have unfolded in and around this festive period. We begin first in the Premier League to discuss Liverpool and Manchester City with defensive frailties in the spotlight, breaking down each team and getting underneath what have been the causes and how the emergence of tactics with wingbacks may be contributing to more problems in the back. This includes whether Brendan Rodgers may also have to find defensive reinforcements in the transfer window and if recent comments from Roberto Mancini about his team being soft at times truly does have some merit, including goalkeeper Joe Hart. Also in focus here is the emergence of Tottenham Hotspur under Andre Villas-Boas and how new wrinkles from Gareth Bale are already paying dividends, but ask the important question always - how much longer before the elite teams of Europe come calling for his services as he continues to demonstrate that he might just be the top player in the league. Also discussed here is Zemanlandia at the break in Serie A including the task of adapting club legends Francesco Totti and Daniele De Rossi into the unique style that Zeman implements at each club and why bigger questions may still need to be solved in the midfield and other key offensive positions if this upward trajectory can expect to continue. In closing we also take a look at a Real Madrid squad at the break in the aftermath of the Jose Mourinho-Iker Casillas rift and try to examine whether the real problems exposed here are more one of comparing and contrasting club culture with Barcelona and why Madrid is still the great unknown in the Champions League. That is because while nobody doubts the talent and quality of Real Madrid, what every other team should fear is if somehow one of the top big game managers in football can turn things around, Real Madrid has yet to play its best football and they could focus entirely on Europe. Janusz always has a wonderful take on the biggest stories in football, and in this episode of Prime Time Football we pull up the chairs and have a go. Discover why we have awarded Janusz Michallik with the honorary title of BTP Executive Vice President of Football Common Sense. Phil and Anto are both on hand for a year-end episode of Prime Time Football with ESPN FC Press Pass analyst Janusz Michallik who helps us break down many of the key stories that have unfolded in and around this festive period. We begin first in the Phil and Anto are both on hand for a year-end episode of Prime Time Football with ESPN FC Press Pass analyst Janusz Michallik who helps us break down many of the key stories that have unfolded in and around this festive period. We begin first in the Premier League to discuss Liverpool and Manchester City with defensive frailties in the spotlight, breaking down each team and getting underneath what have been the causes and how the emergence of tactics with wingbacks may be contributing to more problems in the back. This includes whether Brendan Rodgers may also have to find defensive reinforcements in the transfer window and if recent comments from Roberto Mancini about his team being soft at times truly does have some merit, including goalkeeper Joe Hart. Also in focus here is the emergence of Tottenham Hotspur under Andre Villas-Boas and how new wrinkles from Gareth Bale are already paying dividends, but ask the important question always - how much longer before the elite teams of Europe come calling for his services as he continues to demonstrate that he might just be the top player in the league. Also discussed here is Zemanlandia at the break in Serie A including the task of adapting club legends Francesco Totti and Daniele De Rossi into the unique style that Zeman implements at each club and why bigger questions may still need to be solved in the midfield and other key offensive positions if this upward trajectory can expect to continue. In closing we also take a look at a Real Madrid squad at the break in the aftermath of the Jose Mourinho-Iker Casillas rift and try to examine whether the real problems exposed here are more one of comparing and contrasting club culture with Barcelona and why Madrid is still the great unknown in the Champions League. That is because while nobody doubts the talent and quality of Real Madrid, what every other team should fear is if somehow one of the top big game managers in football can turn things around, Real Madrid has yet to play its best football and they could focus entirely on Europe. Janusz always has a wonderful take on the biggest stories in football, and in this episode of Prime Time Football we pull up the chairs and have a go. Discover why we have awarded Janusz Michallik with the honorary title of BTP Executive Vice President of Football Common Sense. Thu, 27 Dec 2012 14:30:00 GMT 56:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP12272012.janusz.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2012/12/27/prime-time-janusz-michallik/ Beyond The Pitch Anto is joined by Italian football commentator Owen Neilson who covers both Serie A and Serie B for ESPN, Al Jazeera and Now TV as we head to the break for the two top levels of football on the peninsula after some crucial results for several clubs who are clearly moving in different directions. Calcio has two serious favorites in both major sectors of its football in Juventus FC and Unione Sportiva Sassuolo Calcio at present and it does appear that they could move to substantial eight point leads while ball is still yellow, leaving next to little wiggle room for their closest competitors. The story gets no bigger, however, in the aftermath of a decisive victory by AS Roma over AC Milan where the fallout seems more destined for a thesis than a match report as all kinds of fallout are already at work for the Rossoneri including a reality lesson staring them down in the face both in terms of the loss column and the pending sales of its two last Brazilian outfield players in Pato and Robinho back to Brazil in the winter period. There are also massive questions for Internazionale and Napoli who have some clear holes to address if they want to mount a serious top three challenge, Palermo which finds itself in the relegation drop zone at the break and our two surprise teams in Fiorentina and Parma from the season preview show who continue to either entertain and/or take big points from the other traditional powers of Serie A. We also take a look at how this season continues to be influenced by managers with real ideas in the case of Montella, Zeman, Petkovic and Stramaccioni and a source of serious pride for Italians as its younger players start to leave its mark on this league in a fashion not seen in years. We also focus on some of the significant contributions by several key players at the halfway mark including Stephan El Shaarawy, who has carried one of the biggest club football teams and will eventually go cold, Francesco Totti, Hernanes, the Fiorentina midfield and a Juventus team that continues to stage a forced assault on another title. We also examine where Serie B is at the moment, who looks to have emerged and whether anybody in that division can challenge Sassuolo in the second half of the season, which could deliver the Neroverdi to its first Serie A season in club history. Anto is joined by Italian football commentator Owen Neilson who covers both Serie A and Serie B for ESPN, Al Jazeera and Now TV as we head to the break for the two top levels of football on the peninsula after some crucial results for several clubs w Anto is joined by Italian football commentator Owen Neilson who covers both Serie A and Serie B for ESPN, Al Jazeera and Now TV as we head to the break for the two top levels of football on the peninsula after some crucial results for several clubs who are clearly moving in different directions. Calcio has two serious favorites in both major sectors of its football in Juventus FC and Unione Sportiva Sassuolo Calcio at present and it does appear that they could move to substantial eight point leads while ball is still yellow, leaving next to little wiggle room for their closest competitors. The story gets no bigger, however, in the aftermath of a decisive victory by AS Roma over AC Milan where the fallout seems more destined for a thesis than a match report as all kinds of fallout are already at work for the Rossoneri including a reality lesson staring them down in the face both in terms of the loss column and the pending sales of its two last Brazilian outfield players in Pato and Robinho back to Brazil in the winter period. There are also massive questions for Internazionale and Napoli who have some clear holes to address if they want to mount a serious top three challenge, Palermo which finds itself in the relegation drop zone at the break and our two surprise teams in Fiorentina and Parma from the season preview show who continue to either entertain and/or take big points from the other traditional powers of Serie A. We also take a look at how this season continues to be influenced by managers with real ideas in the case of Montella, Zeman, Petkovic and Stramaccioni and a source of serious pride for Italians as its younger players start to leave its mark on this league in a fashion not seen in years. We also focus on some of the significant contributions by several key players at the halfway mark including Stephan El Shaarawy, who has carried one of the biggest club football teams and will eventually go cold, Francesco Totti, Hernanes, the Fiorentina midfield and a Juventus team that continues to stage a forced assault on another title. We also examine where Serie B is at the moment, who looks to have emerged and whether anybody in that division can challenge Sassuolo in the second half of the season, which could deliver the Neroverdi to its first Serie A season in club history. Sun, 23 Dec 2012 18:29:00 GMT 41:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP12232012.owen.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2012/12/23/owen-neilson-dec-2012/ Beyond The Pitch Anto is joined by ESPN FC Press Pass commentator Robbie Earle to take a first brush look at a Champions League draw filled with all kinds of converging subplots and meaningful reunions of former players. It gets no bigger than Manchester United and Real Madrid locking horns with Cristiano Ronaldo amid a very dodgy period for Jose Mourinho who once took a Porto side into Old Trafford to win his first Champions League trophy before he was known as The Special One and how the midfield battle here might actually determine what happens in terms of an outcome. We get into the gears there including what Sir Alex might do to stop the options that Real Madrid has and whether the bigger decision might actually be whether Mourinho goes with Modric over Ozil given his familiarity with Premier League football, and Old Trafford, to be more specific. We also break down the key elements for Arsenal and Bayern Munich which could be among the most athletic match-ups we could see all season and if Arsene Wenger has enough to exploit the Bavarians on the counter. Also in focus here is whether the Gunners are fundamentally better suited to European competition than their domestic realm given its make up. We close part one with a look at two other reunions, first with Juventus and Celtic with Neil Lennon growing in stature and some emerging problems for the Turin giants with a key defensive injury, then Barcelona and AC Milan in a tie that is only glamourous in name only given the reversing trends for these two football giants. In part two we spend a bit of time on the most fascinating match up between Dortmund and Shakhtar Donetsk and whether the Germans can replicate what they did in the Group Stage, outlasting Real Madrid in the Group Stage and seize this opportunity to leave a mark in Europe. We also examine the economic realities for Porto and Malaga and then dissect what the issues could be for PSG where it always begins and ends with how anybody who manages Zlatan Ibrahimovic deals with his flexibility and unique talents. We close out the show looking at some of the better of the Europa League ties and begin to assess what some of the English clubs might do at this stage and if Andre Villas-Boas makes a serious move toward this trophy. Anto is joined by ESPN FC Press Pass commentator Robbie Earle to take a first brush look at a Champions League draw filled with all kinds of converging subplots and meaningful reunions of former players. It gets no bigger than Manchester United and Anto is joined by ESPN FC Press Pass commentator Robbie Earle to take a first brush look at a Champions League draw filled with all kinds of converging subplots and meaningful reunions of former players. It gets no bigger than Manchester United and Real Madrid locking horns with Cristiano Ronaldo amid a very dodgy period for Jose Mourinho who once took a Porto side into Old Trafford to win his first Champions League trophy before he was known as The Special One and how the midfield battle here might actually determine what happens in terms of an outcome. We get into the gears there including what Sir Alex might do to stop the options that Real Madrid has and whether the bigger decision might actually be whether Mourinho goes with Modric over Ozil given his familiarity with Premier League football, and Old Trafford, to be more specific. We also break down the key elements for Arsenal and Bayern Munich which could be among the most athletic match-ups we could see all season and if Arsene Wenger has enough to exploit the Bavarians on the counter. Also in focus here is whether the Gunners are fundamentally better suited to European competition than their domestic realm given its make up. We close part one with a look at two other reunions, first with Juventus and Celtic with Neil Lennon growing in stature and some emerging problems for the Turin giants with a key defensive injury, then Barcelona and AC Milan in a tie that is only glamourous in name only given the reversing trends for these two football giants. In part two we spend a bit of time on the most fascinating match up between Dortmund and Shakhtar Donetsk and whether the Germans can replicate what they did in the Group Stage, outlasting Real Madrid in the Group Stage and seize this opportunity to leave a mark in Europe. We also examine the economic realities for Porto and Malaga and then dissect what the issues could be for PSG where it always begins and ends with how anybody who manages Zlatan Ibrahimovic deals with his flexibility and unique talents. We close out the show looking at some of the better of the Europa League ties and begin to assess what some of the English clubs might do at this stage and if Andre Villas-Boas makes a serious move toward this trophy. Fri, 21 Dec 2012 20:03:00 GMT 41:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP12212012.ucl.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2012/12/21/robbie-earle-european-draw/ Beyond The Pitch Phil and Anto are joined by former Sunderland player and football commentator Micky Gray to take a deeper look into the problems at the Stadium of Light where the Black Cats are suddenly in a relegation scrap that could go either of two ways unless a combination of form, injuries and maybe some player moves are not addressed in very short order. We examine where things have gone wrong in year two under Martin O`Neill and look into some key areas in the midfield and defence where some obvious holes do exist and question whether the club will need to make some serious moves as the January window approaches given that a key longer term concern will be the ongoing availability of Lee Cattermole throughout winter football and beyond. Also in focus here are two key parts of the table, starting with fourth through seventh where some key players will have to come good to reach for Champions League football, and which of the contenders has the best supporting cast to get it done. Then, we also take a look at the job being turned in by Andre Villas-Boas at White Hart Lane and how he is beginning to distinguish himself with some key tactical decisions like we saw in the Swansea match. Also discussed here is the big dilemma facing Manchester City in this transfer window as some big names are not getting regular minutes on a very big squad, what the impacts of Financial Fair Play may be in the intermediate term and how the issues with SuperMario do not appear to be resolved any time soon. We also discuss Harry Redknapp at QPR, whether more moves are in store and whether the move from Mark Hughes was the right thing to do given the circumstances. Phil and Anto are joined by former Sunderland player and football commentator Micky Gray to take a deeper look into the problems at the Stadium of Light where the Black Cats are suddenly in a relegation scrap that could go either of two ways unless a Phil and Anto are joined by former Sunderland player and football commentator Micky Gray to take a deeper look into the problems at the Stadium of Light where the Black Cats are suddenly in a relegation scrap that could go either of two ways unless a combination of form, injuries and maybe some player moves are not addressed in very short order. We examine where things have gone wrong in year two under Martin O`Neill and look into some key areas in the midfield and defence where some obvious holes do exist and question whether the club will need to make some serious moves as the January window approaches given that a key longer term concern will be the ongoing availability of Lee Cattermole throughout winter football and beyond. Also in focus here are two key parts of the table, starting with fourth through seventh where some key players will have to come good to reach for Champions League football, and which of the contenders has the best supporting cast to get it done. Then, we also take a look at the job being turned in by Andre Villas-Boas at White Hart Lane and how he is beginning to distinguish himself with some key tactical decisions like we saw in the Swansea match. Also discussed here is the big dilemma facing Manchester City in this transfer window as some big names are not getting regular minutes on a very big squad, what the impacts of Financial Fair Play may be in the intermediate term and how the issues with SuperMario do not appear to be resolved any time soon. We also discuss Harry Redknapp at QPR, whether more moves are in store and whether the move from Mark Hughes was the right thing to do given the circumstances. Tue, 18 Dec 2012 18:30:00 GMT 21:00 http://traffic.libsyn.com/btpmedia/BTP12182012.micky.mp3 http://www.beyondthepitch.net/podcasts/edition/index.cfm/beyond-the-pitch/2012/12/18/micky-gray/ Beyond The Pitch