Today’s story comes from Michael O’Neill, who describes how he kindled the team spirit in his Northern Ireland squad.Listen to the classic versions of the original episodes:Classic Big Interview: Michael O’Neill Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastClassic Big Interview: Michael O’Neill Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Craig Gordon from season two.This was a fascinating discussion about Craig’s remarkable campaign at Celtic, during which he proved he could play out from the back – even at the Camp Nou. We also talked about the devastating injury which kept the Scotland No1 out of the game for two years. Craig revealed his admiration for Gigi Buffon, and explained the public stance he took against a despotic owner at Hearts. Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Terry Butcher, who describes his favourite Iron Maiden gig – when the England, Ipswich and Rangers legend actually performed on stage with the heavy rockers.Listen to the original full episode:Terry Butcher: Beattie, Banter & Sir Bobby - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Joe Jordan, who reminisces about the sheer genius of Celtic legend Jimmy Johnstone. Listen to the classic versions of the original episodes: Classic Big Interview: Joe Jordan Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Classic Big Interview: Joe Jordan Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Peter Crouch from season two.Peter was a footballer who played with an accomplished technical ability and a sense of fun which made him a joy to watch. He was so much more than a good touch for a big man. In this Big Interview we discover learning the game using the Coerver Method, some of his best strikes, his love of Italian football, and the ‘Stoke effect’.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Peter Beardsley, who expresses his love for Tino Asprilla, an extraordinary footballer and one of the funniest and most eccentric men ever to have played the game.Listen to the classic versions of the original episodes:Classic Big Interview: Peter Beardsley Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastClassic Big Interview: Peter Beardsley Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jody Morris, who describes his protracted exit from his boyhood heroes Chelsea.Listen to the classic versions of the original episodes:Classic Big Interview: Jody Morris Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastClassic Big Interview: Jody Morris Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear part two of my interview with Chris Sutton from season two.Chris had the pick of every top team in England in 1994, but it was upwardly mobile Blackburn that took him from Norwich for a British record transfer fee of £5 million. Paired with Alan Shearer in the famous SAS partnership, Chris helped Rovers win the 1994/95 league title ahead of Manchester United.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Chris Sutton from season two.Chris uses the word ‘character’ a lot and explains how his was forged – from an initial rejection from Norwich City to his dad’s boot camp approach to physical fitness to an uncompromising youth team coach at Carrow Road. Also in part one: Sri Lankan cricketer Ravi Pushpakumara, Andy Theodosiou’s brutal tackles, Alan Shearer and Efan Ekoku.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Terry Butcher, who describes trying to keep a straight face when Bobby Robson was scolding him, while Gazza was making funny faces at him in the background.Listen to the original full episode:Terry Butcher: Beattie, Banter & Sir Bobby - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Charlie Nicholas, who relates how his Celtic hero Danny McGrain used to pick him up in the mornings – to the amazement of his pals. Listen to the original full episodes: Classic Big Interview: Charlie Nicholas Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Classic Big Interview: Charlie Nicholas Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Mark Noble from season two.In part two, we hear how Mark grew up with a football field (almost) for a back garden. Mark talks about running out at Upton Park, and the final game there, against Manchester United under the lights. We also hear about the Legacy Foundation, which Mark founded alongside two other London boys: Bobby Zamora and Rio Ferdinand.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Mark Noble from season two.Mark starred in the midfield at his beloved West Ham United for most of his senior career. In part one, you’ll hear about his ice-cool prowess as a penalty-taker – he once scored two in an epic shootout against the Netherlands in the semi-finals of the European Under-21 Championships. Also: how to captain your boyhood heroes.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Gordon Strachan, who declares that the team that wins together does not necessarily have to drink together. Listen to the original full episode: Classic Big Interview: Gordon Strachan - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Peter Beardsley, who tells the incredible tale of how he ended up - briefly - at Manchester United, courtesy of George Best.Listen to the classic versions of the original episodes:Classic Big Interview: Peter Beardsley Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastClassic Big Interview: Peter Beardsley Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Darren Fletcher, who explains what it was like to miss the 2009 Champions League final in which Manchester United took on Barcelona’s greatest side.Listen to the original full episode:The Big Interview with Darren Fletcher - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Neil Lennon from season two.This second part is the audience Q&A section of the live fundraising event for Ardgowan Hospice organised by actor and friend of the Big Interview Martin Compston. There are great responses from Neil about player development and the most talented managers in football today, and a wonderful tribute to the late Tommy Burns.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Joe Jordan, who describes the revolutionary preparations undertaken by Leeds United’s legendary manager Don Revie.Listen to the classic versions of the original episodes:Classic Big Interview: Joe Jordan Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastClassic Big Interview: Joe Jordan Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Terry Butcher, who describes how his former Ipswich team-mate Kevin Beattie could have been one of the all-time England greats and was a legend off the pitch.Listen to the original full episode:Terry Butcher: Beattie, Banter & Sir Bobby - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Michael Carrick, who explains how his nickname ‘Havoc’ originated in a war game which some of the Manchester United stars would indulge in while on long hauls abroad. It could get a bit too competitive at times, but overall it was excellent for team bonding.Listen to a classic versions of the original episodes:Classic Big Interview: Michael Carrick Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastClassic Big Interview: Michael Carrick Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Neil Lennon from season two.We recorded our first live event when Neil, then the Hibernian manager, joined us at Greenock Town Hall for a fundraising event for Ardgowan Hospice organised by screen star Martin Compston.In part one, you’ll hear about Martin O’Neill dragging his Leicester City players to murder scenes, Noel Gallagher telling Neil off for misbehaving before an Oasis gig, encounters with Barcelona and much more.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Harry Redknapp, who muses on the diverse talents of the late great John White, Paulo Di Canio, Tony Currie, Alan Hudson, Peter Osgood, Charlie Cooke and Robert Prosinečki.Listen to the original full episode:Harry Redknapp: Di Canio, Kanu & The Art Of The Deal - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Charlie Nicholas, who relates how Arsenal might have been the wrong choice, but it beat moving to Manchester United under Ron Atkinson – the man with the golden toothpick. Listen to the original full episodes: Classic Big Interview: Charlie Nicholas Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Classic Big Interview: Charlie Nicholas Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with John Collins from season two.During his time in France, John underwent a technical and tactical revolution, but his marginal gains approach to self-improvement started in his teens. How else could a skinny kid from Galashiels get the chance to line up alongside George Best in only his second professional game? Also in part two: Petit, Zidane, rugby, more on sweeper keepers and what that cheeky wink to the camera meant before Scotland played Brazil in the opening game of the 1998 World Cup in Paris.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with John Collins from season two.John’s career was shaped by his move from Celtic to Monaco in 1996, where he played alongside a couple of promising youngsters named Thierry Henry and David Trezeguet. John tells us how the two French internationalists carried the hamper at every away game in the season prior to winning the World Cup. Also in part one, brilliant insights into the development of young footballers.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Gordon Strachan, who declares that you don’t need a sports psychologist if you’ve got a man manager like Sir Alex Ferguson in charge.Listen to the classic episode:Classic Big Interview: Gordon Strachan - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Gaizka Mendieta, who speaks about his passion for DJing and how he once met his hero Lou Reed, the Johan Cruyff of music.Listen to the original full episode:Gaizka Mendieta: Practice makes perfect - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Steve Archibald from season two.In part two we hear about how Terry Venables imported Liverpool’s defensive system to win La Liga when Steve was at Barcelona, what it’s like to score in and win a season-opening Classico, the unpredictable mind of Bernd Schuster, and how to avoid one of the most notorious hitmen in European football history.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Steve Archibald from season two.In part one, Steve talks about his early career at my beloved Aberdeen, his talented Pittodrie team-mates and the legendary manager who would lead them to the 1980 league title, Alex Ferguson.It is truly fascinating to hear Steve take a forensic view of the role of the centre-forward.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Geordie magician Chris Waddle, who explains how he regularly baited and befuddled defenders because he was never afraid to unleash his God-given talent.Listen to the original full episode:Chris Waddle: The Entertainer - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Walter Smith, who tells us about doorstep recruiting Paul Gascoigne for Rangers and then keeping him on the straight and narrow.Listen to a classic version of the original episode:Classic Big Interview: Walter Smith - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Steve McManaman from season two.In part two, we hear about the clever, deft chip at the Camp Nou which helped Real Madrid into the Champions League final, a final that bequeathed the elegant midfielder his second winners medal. Steve received a hero’s welcome in the dressing room.Also: war at the Bernabéu between players and hierarchy, the brilliance of Brazilian Ronaldo, how Zidane wasn’t an instant hit, and why Claude Makelele was more important than Luis Figo.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear part one of my interview with Steve McManaman from season two.The four years that Steve spent at Real Madrid can be summed up in two Champions League wins, two league titles, and one remark from none other than Johan Cruyff, who described the Merseyside Madridista as el socio del todos – a partner to everyone on the pitch.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Gary McAllister, who says that although Eric Cantona turned a few key matches, the French maestro was relatively peripheral to Leeds United’s 1992 league title win.Listen to the original full episodes:Classic Big Interview: Gary McAllister Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastClassic Big Interview: Gary McAllister Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from former Real Madrid president Ramón Calderón, who says how promoting Zinedine Zinedine from the position of reserve team coach to the biggest role in club football management was a risk that paid off.Listen to the original full episodes:Classic Big Interview: Ramon Calderon Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastClassic Big Interview: Ramon Calderon Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Stiliyan Petrov from season two.In part two, Stan explains how Martin O’Neill makes his teams perform beyond the sum of their parts. At Aston Villa, Stan had to work hard to win back the love of the fans, but eventually he became captain.Then there’s Stan’s battle with leukaemia. His description of what he went through, and how it gave him a new perspective on life, is truly inspirational.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Stiliyan Petrov from season two.In part one, ‘Stan’ chats about everything from national service with the Bulgarian army to playing alongside Henrik Larsson in a magnificent Celtic team. At Celtic, he had to adapt to a new culture and a new language, but he improved his English by working in a burger van. No, I am not making that up…Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Quinton Fortune, who recalls being mesmerised by Paul Scholes’ passing ability at Manchester United.Listen to the original full episodes:Quinton Fortune: From The Cape Flats to Fortune - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastQuinton Fortune: Ribbing Ronaldo and being kicked by Keane - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Robert Huth, who remembers that when Jose Mourinho arrived at Chelsea, he took training sessions to an unimaginable new level.Listen to the original full episodes:Robert Huth: Inside Jose’s Chelsea Revolution - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastRobert Huth: Inside Jurgen’s German Revolution - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Pablo Zabaleta from season two.Pablo scored the forgotten (beautiful) goal on one of English football’s most memorable days: when Manchester City won the title in injury time in 2012. We cover a lot in this fascinating chat, starting in 2005 at the Under-20 World Cup, which Argentina won. Zabaleta was captain and a kid called Leo Messi had joined up with the squad...Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jocky Bjorklund, who talks about his former Old Firm rival and international teammate Henrik Larsson, who was one of the cleverest and most adaptable footballers he has ever seen.Listen to the original full episodes:Jocky Bjorklund: Larsson, Brolin and Sweden’s Glory Days - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastJocky Bjorklund: The secrets of Cuper's Valencia - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonny Evans’ childhood hero was Roy Keane, and as a youngster he played under him at Sunderland. You can only imagine how the defender felt being given a lift in the legend’s car. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from David Moyes, who talks about an encounter between Real Sociedad and a mighty, treble-winning Barcelona team. David’s side won, but they were run ragged by the magnificent Andrés Iniesta.Listen to the original full episodes:David Moyes: 'I thought it was my last chance - it was time to gamble' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastDavid Moyes: 'When Rice goes to England, I tell him to watch Harry Kane' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Matt Le Tissier from season two.In part two, Matt tells us how Glenn Hoddle was the only manager he ever locked horns with during his career. We hear about the huge strain Matt felt to keep Southampton in the top division. Also: Ronnie Ekelund, Mauricio Pocchetino and Gareth Bale.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Matt Le Tissier from season two.Matt signed for Southampton aged 16 and stayed for his entire career. His sublime midfield talents would have enabled him to play at any level, but silverware and cash were never his motivation. In part one, Matt talks about his idyllic Guernsey childhood, his love of cricket, how to hardly ever miss a penalty, and scoring the last-ever goal at the Dell.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Michael O’Neill, who was terrified of Paul Gascoigne when he first met him at Newcastle, but quickly realised what an inclusive, kindly man the midfield genius is. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Ally Dick, who played under Dutch legend Johan Cruyff at Ajax alongside the likes of Ronald Koeman and Marco van Basten. Everything Cruyff said had a deep meaning for his footballers.Listen to the original full episodes:Ally Dick: The Lost Genius of Spurs and Ajax (Part one) - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastAlly Dick: Ajax, Cruyff and crossing for Koeman (Part Two) - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Ramon Calderon from season two.In part two, Ramon describes some historic deals, not least Cristiano Ronaldo’s high-profile arrival from Manchester United. We’ll hear about Florentino Perez, the man Ramon succeeded and who would return to power at the Bernabeu. There’s also David Beckham – the consummate professional and Ramon’s golden boy.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Ramon Calderon from season two.In part one, the former Real Madrid president recalls his time as a supporter: watching the likes of Alfredo Di Stefano play and later getting to know him as a man. We learn how the club’s success all stems from the incredible vision of Santiago Bernabeu, the man behind Real Madrid.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Chrissy Waddle, who played alongside Eric Cantona at Marseille and believes he was popular when he moved to England because British fans love a rebel.Listen to the original full episode:Chris Waddle: The Entertainer - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Matt Le Tissier, who speaks about seeing a young Gareth Bale come through the ranks at Southampton and knowing that he was destined for the very top.Listen to the original full episodes:Matt Le Tissier: Local Hero - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastMatt Le Tissier: Survival Games - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Steve McManaman, who speaks about how Zinedine Zidane’s frustrating start at Real Madrid was quickly forgotten after the 2002 Champions League final win over Bayer Leverkusen.Listen to the original episode:Classic Big Interview: Steve McManaman - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink from season two.Few are better placed to discuss the differences in football cultures than Jimmy – and he doesn't hold back. He has strong views on the issues within English football, but it is his home nation of Holland for which he reserves the harshest criticism. Why do the Dutch keep coming up short? Jimmy also talks Chelsea, Middlesbrough, Gudjohnsen and Valeron.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Darren Fletcher, who says that Paul Scholes was technically one of the best players of all time, so much so that the Scotsman had to redefine his own role as a midfielder at Manchester United.Listen to the original full episode:The Big Interview with Darren Fletcher - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Quinton Fortune, who recalls both the breathtaking talent and the incomparable mentality of the young Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United. No player ever worked harder for success than the Portuguese genius. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Phil Neville from season two.In part two, we chatted about Phil’s new life in Spain after he took on a coaching role at Valencia, a move instigated largely by a bold decision that his son made. Phil breaks down how he learned the language and soaked in the football culture of the nation. You’ll hear about the complex differences between the football cultures of Spain and Britain. Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Phil Neville from season two.In part one, Phil describes his first love: cricket, and how he nearly made it in that noble sport. His experiences in cricket helped form his football mentality, and even shaped his outlook in life. In an era when the professional game is awash with money, Phil’s insistence on instilling a work ethic and morals in young footballers has never been more relevant. Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Benni McCarthy, whose tough time at Celta Vigo ended when Jose Mourinho brought him to Porto. Benni saw the Portuguese as a father figure, and would have run through a brick wall for him.Listen to the original full episode:Benni McCarthy: Mourinho & Me - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Slaven Bilic, who celebrates how Croatia having a national football league helps bring on young talents – but he insists Luka Modric would have made it anyway.Listen to the original full episodes:Slaven Bilic Part One: Boban, Suker And The Boys of '96 - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastSlaven Bilic: Pancev, National Pride And The Road To Paris - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Thomas Hitzlsperger from season two.In part two, the former Germany midfielder talks about taking on some big issues: racism in football, and his decision to come out as the most high-profile gay player.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Thomas Hitzlsperger from season two.Thomas helped me with a German perspective on the final of Euro 2008 when I was writing my book on Spain's trophy treble, but you're about to find out how much I didn't know about Der Hammer. In part one, we hear about how the midfielder was forged, and the incredible story of how he left FC Hollywood-era Bayern Munich to join Aston Villa.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Pablo Zabaleta, who recalls a shy, skinny Lionel Messi in the Argentina Under-20s dressing room… then he did his talking on the pitch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Micah Richards, who speaks about Manchester City’s 2011/2012 Premier League title win, and the adoration he had for the sometimes difficult man manager Roberto Mancini.Listen to the original full episode:Micah Richards: Mancini, Mario and Me - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with the sadly missed Gianluca Vialli from season two.In part two, Luca reflects on the culture of fitness and desire which drove Juventus to Champions League success in 1996, and what it means to represent the club. He talks passionately about his time with Chelsea, both as a player and manager. Listen out for anecdotes on Ranieri, Di Canio, Lippi and Ferguson.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with the sadly missed Gianluca Vialli from season two.In part one, Luca goes into depth about his unforgettable spell with Sampdoria at the start of his career – where he won Serie A for the only time in the club’s history, picked up the European Cup Winners’ Cup against Anderlecht and lost to Cruyff’s Barcelona ‘Dream Team’ in the 1992 European Cup final. Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from stand-up star Kevin Bridges, who describes his adoration for Henrik Larsson, and how as a youngster he managed to ruin the super Swede’s jeans. Listen to the original full episode:Classic Big Interview: Kevin Bridges, The Return - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders, who tells us how Jurgen Klopp and his coaches instil the players’ inner voice in training, allowing them to react to onfield events with remarkable dynamism and flexibility.Listen to the original full episodes:Pep Lijnders: Klopp and the Reds’ Revolution - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastPep Lijnders: Porto’s Fountain of Youth - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Kevin Kilbane, who recalls the infamous Saipan incident during the 2002 World Cup. Had Roy Keane not been fired from the squad, Kev reckons Ireland could have gone all the way to the final.Listen to the original episode:Kevin Kilbane: Rui, Roy and Figo's Magic Feet - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Paul Clement from season one.To get somebody breaking down what matchday is like at an extraordinary level of sport is rare, but that’s what you get here in part two. The tactical presentation that gave Paul palpitations; the reason they can’t leave the hotel as a team; the Ronaldo effect in the tunnel before the game; the staggered nature of the celebrations – and why, at Madrid, they never last too long.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from David Moyes, who talks about nurturing the raw talent of Declan Rice at West Ham.Listen to the original full episodes:David Moyes: 'I thought it was my last chance - it was time to gamble' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastDavid Moyes: 'When Rice goes to England, I tell him to watch Harry Kane' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Alex McLeish, who explains how he nearly signed a young Andrés Iniesta on loan when manager of Rangers.Listen to the original full episodes: Alex McLeish Live Part One: Barca, Bayern and Barnum & Bailey - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Alex McLeish Live Part Two: Messi, Iniesta And The Search For A Loan Ranger - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Alex McLeish Live Part Three: The Q & A - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Paul Clement from season one.Season 2013/14 was a special one for Real Madrid. It was the season of La Decima, their 10th European crown. Paul, assistant to Carlo Ancelotti, saw it all. And this is his account. From a fastidious breakdown of a typical day on the training ground with Ancelotti, Zinedine Zidane and Fernando Hierro, through the positional alterations and squad characters that lifted the team at crucial times. Enjoy part one of a fascinating conversation.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Domènec Torrent, who was one of Pep Guardiola’s trusted lieutenants at Barcelona. They endured a sticky start but the golden era soon dawned.Listen to the original full episodes:Domènec Torrent: Rising with Pep - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastDomènec Torrent: Robben, Ribéry and Raheem - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Chrissy Waddle, who tells us about Paul Gascoigne’s enormous capacity for mischief.Listen to the original full episode:Chris Waddle: The Entertainer - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Terry Gibson, who tells us about how Sir Alex Ferguson’s arrival at Manchester United was the new broom Old Trafford needed after the lax regime of Ron Atkinson. Listen to the original full episodes: Terry Gibson: Bad Days with Big Ron and Falling Out with Fergie - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Terry Gibson: How the Crazy Gang won the FA Cup - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Michael O’Neill from season one.In part two, we hear about how Michael’s playing career influenced his management vocation. There was a sense of underachievement from his playing days, a sense that he had needed to be better managed. Dundee United’s legendary boss Jim McLean was certainly a genius and ahead of his time, but altogether too harsh. For example, Michael was cast aside for seven months over a contract dispute. Also: Luis Suarez, Snow Patrol and Windsor Park.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Michael O’Neill from season one.In part one, Michael breaks down in fascinating detail the way he had shaped and guided a Northern Ireland squad to the phenomenal achievement of qualification for Euro 2016. We get great insights into his man management approach, and his hopes for Kyle Lafferty being the player of the tournament.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Charlie Nicholas, who recalls playing against Johan Cruyff when Celtic knocked Ajax out of the European Cup in 1982, and getting his hands on the great man’s jersey.Listen to the original full episodes: Classic Big Interview: Charlie Nicholas Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Classic Big Interview: Charlie Nicholas Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Simon Stainrod, who recalls playing against the mighty Eric Cantona in France and predicting that Leeds boss Howard Wilkinson wouldn’t like him, and that he would be better off playing for someone like Alex Ferguson.Listen to the original full episode:Simon Stainrod: Last of the Bullfighters - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Joe Jordan from season one.Joe’s diving header against a brilliant Czechoslovakia side helped Scotland qualify for the 1974 World Cup finals, where the Scots were unbeaten but went out on goal difference. In part two, we also hear about Joe’s adventures at Argentina ’78 and Spain ’82. And he talks passionately about his immersion in Italian football, first with AC Milan – where he became a cult hero.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Joe Jordan from season one.The proud Scot is one of an elite band of players to score at three World Cups, and his club career took him to the top of the European game with Leeds United, Manchester United and AC Milan. In part one, we focus mainly on his time at Don Revie’s great Leeds side – whose talents were often overshadowed by their reputation for physical toughness.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from former president of Real Madrid, Ramon Calderon, who pays tribute to David Beckham’s talent and supremely professional attitude.Listen to the original full episodes:Classic Big Interview: Ramon Calderon Part One - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastClassic Big Interview: Ramon Calderon Part Two - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Harry Redknapp, who extols the talents of Gareth Bale, and describes his influence on shaping – and toughening – the younger version of the Welsh superstar.Listen to the original full episode:Harry Redknapp: Di Canio, Kanu & The Art Of The Deal - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Jody Morris from season one.In part two, we hear about an epic Champions League battle against Louis van Gaal’s Barcelona in 2000, in which Jody owned a young Xavi. He turned down a contract renewal with his beloved Chelsea to join Graeme Souness at Blackburn, but the deal fell through and Jody’s career was never really the same. But Jody has survived and thrived because he understands football and knows how to break it down.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Jody Morris from season one.It was a true pleasure to chat with Jody, a man whose adoration for the beautiful game is matched by his astuteness and articulacy. He possesses a remarkable insight into the role of the pivotal midfielder. In part one, there’s captivating content about life under Glenn Hoddle, Ruud Gullit and the larger-than-life Gianluca Vialli at pre-Abramovich Chelsea.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from David Moyes, who reveals how West Ham’s transfer strategy has had to shift to focus on buying better players.Listen to the original full episodes:David Moyes: 'I thought it was my last chance - it was time to gamble' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastDavid Moyes: 'When Rice goes to England, I tell him to watch Harry Kane' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Michael Laudrup, who reflected on how winning the League Cup as Swansea manager eclipsed even the greatest achievements of his playing career.Listen to the original full episodes:Michael Laudrup: A Cruyff Education - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastMichael Laudrup: Messi or Ronaldo or Pele or Maradona? You're missing the point. - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jamie Carragher, who speaks about David Beckham, shares his views on Sven-Goran Eriksson, and re-evaluates England's 5-1 win over Germany.Listen to the original full episodes:Jamie Carragher: The Greatest Games - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastJamie Carragher: There’s Something About Xavi - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Damien Duff from season one.In part two, Damien describes working under Jose Mourinho at Chelsea, and scoring in an incredible battle with Barcelona. Mourinho’s seven-page dossiers on his opponents were grist to the mill for this keen student of the game. There’s also great stuff about how Fulham manager Roy Hodgson plucked him from an unhappy spell at Newcastle and gave him a new lease of life at the wonderful Craven Cottage.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jamie Carragher, who explains why it’s not Messi, Ronaldo or Dalglish who topped his list of favourite players to watch, but Xavi and Baresi.Listen to the original full episodes:Jamie Carragher: The Greatest Games - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastJamie Carragher: There’s Something About Xavi - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Damien Duff from season one.In part one, Damien describes how as a kid he instinctively knew to practice for hours alone to develop his ball skills. He tells about cleaning Tim Sherwood's boots and struggling with homesickness as a youngster at Blackburn. It was all character building, and at the FIFA World Youth Championships in 1997, where Ireland finished third, Damien knew in his heart that he was going to make it.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Uwe Rosler, who speaks about being given the chance to turn things round in Düsseldorf but being hampered by a recruitment crisis and the global pandemic.Listen to the original full episodes:Uwe Rösler: From Stasi Survivor to City Slicker - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastUwe Rösler: The Cult Hero of Maine Road - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Kevin Campbell, who describes watching Arsenal's extraordinary 1989 title triumph with the Gunners fans in the terracing.Listen to the original full episodes:Kevin Campbell: Stopping the traffic in Turkey - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastKevin Campbell: Glory at Goodison - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Frank McAvennie from season one.In part two, Frank describes West Ham’s almost-annus mirabilis under John Lyall, when they could and perhaps should have won the First Division title. Rival Kenny Dalglish seemed to think so. Also, falling out with Sir Alex at Scotland and TV stardom.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Frank McAvennie from season one.In part one, Frank describes his fairytale rise to stardom. A random invitation got him playing with Johnstone Burgh, then a snub by Lisbon Lion Bertie Auld made him determined to succeed. St Mirren came calling, and after several impressive seasons he went south to join Luton, but ended up being signed by John Lyall for West Ham. Soon he was spearheading the Hammers attack with Tony Cottee, fed by the great Alan Devonshire.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Vinny Samways, who places Argentine midfield genius Ossie Ardiles right up there with two of the best to ever play the position in terms of outright talent.Listen to the original full episodes:Vinny Samways: Viva Las Palmas - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastVinny Samways: Ossie’s Pivote - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Michael Laudrup, who reveals how crucial Johan Cruyff was to his development while playing under him Barcelona, a man he says was a genius in many ways, but specifically at conveying his message in simple terms.Listen to the original full episodes:Michael Laudrup: A Cruyff Education - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastMichael Laudrup: Messi or Ronaldo or Pele or Maradona? You're missing the point. - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with David Provan from season one.In part two, David describes his exquisite pass to Steve Archibald for Scotland at Wembley in 1981, how Celtic got his signature despite his being a boyhood Rangers fan, and how his career was cut short by illness. There’s also content about fellow wingers Willie Henderson and Jimmy Johnstone, and brilliant stuff about the dodgy defeat by Real Madrid in the 1980 European Cup quarter-final.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with David Provan from season one.Such is David’s insightfulness that he carved out a brilliant television co-commentating career despite never having played in England. In part one, we hear about surviving a crazy Celtic trip to Batumi in Georgia, and how Old Firm managers Walter Smith and Tommy Burns BOTH trusted him to keep their derby team-sheets secret.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Rafael da Silva, who talks about his idols of his native Brazil: Romario, Roberto Carlos, Cafu, Ronaldinho. Everyone loved Ronaldinho, and in Rafael’s view, the joy he played with epitomised the Brazilian style.Listen to the original full episodes:Rafael da Silva: Bring Me Sunshine - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastRafael da Silva: Fergie Mind Games and Mbappé Magic - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Dean Smith, who talks about growing up watching perhaps the greatest team ever assembled at Villa Park as the likes of Allan Evans, Andy Gray and Gordon 'Sid' Cowans captured the league title before going on to lift the European Cup.Listen to the original full episodes:Dean Smith: How to Build a £100m player - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastDean Smith: Villa 7 Liverpool 2 and other Extraordinary Stories - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Gaizka Mendieta from season one.In part two, we hear about how Valencia had the confidence to usually beat Real and Barca, and scoring perhaps THE greatest-ever goal, against Atlético Madrid in the 1999 Copa del Rey final.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's a special episode of Between the Lines, the podcast produced by BackPage, that tells the stories behind great sportswriting.To celebrate the publication of Andriy Shevchenko's autobiography, My Life, My Football, we break down the story behind the book: why it took three years for the English language edition to reach bookstores, the significance of the war in Ukraine, what matters most to an elite footballer like Shevchenko when he tells his story, and what happens when you get two world-class strikers in the same room. This episode features Martin and Neil from BackPage and theBallon d'Or of translation, Mark Palmer. Find out more about Sheva's book, including where to buyit, here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Gaizka Mendieta from season one.In part one, we hear how as a rookie this exquisite craftsman was regarded merely as an athletic, holding midfielder. Yet Valencia soon realised his full potential, and quickly he had played in two Champions League finals and won UEFA Best Midfielder of the Year twice.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Stephen Glass, who talks about his time as part of the academy staff at Atlanta United when Tata Martino in charge and what he learned from him.Listen to the original full episodes:Stephen Glass: The Long Road Home - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastStephen Glass: Scott Brown and the Leadership Gene - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Alan Pardew from season one.In part two, we hear about Crystal Palace’s dramatic victory over the mighty Liverpool in the 1990 FA Cup semi-final. The Eagles took Manchester United to a replay in the final and almost cost Alex Ferguson his job.We hear also about big moments in Alan’s managerial career, like taking West Ham to within a whisker of the 2006 FA Cup, and near misses at Newcastle. There are also frank opinions on Jose Mourinho and Sven-Göran Eriksson, and how Gazza was football’s ultimate tormentor.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Michael Laudrup, who explains why he refuses to choose between the greats of the beautiful game.Listen to the original full episodes:Michael Laudrup: A Cruyff Education - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastMichael Laudrup: Messi or Ronaldo or Pele or Maradona? You're missing the point. - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear part one of my interview with Alan Pardew from season one.As a player, Alan’s journey from non-league to the big time was long and hard – he even took a massive pay cut when he quit his job in the building trade to pursue his football dream. It was worth it, though, as promotion to the top flight and appearances at Wembley with Crystal Palace beckoned.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Paulo Sousa, whose family couldn’t afford a television set, so he and his father would watch football from up a tree. Now that’s commitment!Listen to the original full episodes:Paulo Sousa: Thinking Fast and Slow - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastPaulo Sousa: How I Helped Win – Then Steal – Juve’s European Crown - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Scot Gemmill, who speaks about his role in developing Billy Gilmour with the Scotland Under-21s, and how Scotland's future footballing talent can reach their maximums.Listen to the original full episodes: Scot Gemmill: Still Under Cloughie’s Spell - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastScot Gemmill: Galvanising Gilmour - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Michael Carrick from season one.In part two, Michael revisits the long yards between the centre circle and the penalty spot before he took part in the shootout for the 2008 Champions League. Also, Michael’s admiration for Petit, Vieira and Busquets, and what it felt like to have Scholes, Ronaldo and Rooney to pass to.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Michael Carrick from season one.In part one, Michael brings to life showing up for his first training sessions at Manchester United and taking on the Class of 92 in ‘The Box’. We hear how a war game fostered team spirit at Old Trafford, plus there’s great content on Rio Ferdinand, Harry Redknapp and Paulo Di Canio.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jan Age Fjortoft, who speaks about his countryman Erling Haaland, who he compares to a certain Bayern Munich legend.Listen to the original full episodes:Jan Age Fjortoft: The Art of Post-Match Interviewing - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastJan Age Fjortoft: The Making of Haaland - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Chapi Ferrer, who describes what happened before, during and after the 1992 European Cup Final, which ended in a historic victory for Barcelona.Listen to the original full episodes:Chapi Ferrer: Cruyff’s Dream Team Thirty Years On - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastChapi Ferrer: Transplanting The Barca DNA - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Terry Butcher from season one.In part two, we hear lots about Terry’s seminal move north of the border to join the Rangers revolution under Graeme Souness. Training matches at the Gers were, let’s just say, full-throttled, and we hear about the phenomenal Scottish talent of that Ibrox era, the late great Davie Cooper.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear part one of my interview with Terry Butcher from season one.As a boyhood Ipswich Town fan, it was the stuff of dreams that he would be part of one of that club’s greatest ever teams, famously winning the UEFA Cup under the late Bobby Robson. Sir Bobby was iconic in Terry’s playing life, also managing him for years at England.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Paulo Sousa. One Champion's League – at Juventus – wasn't enough for the Portuguese wizard, so he joined Dortmund and won another the following season!Listen to the original full episodes:Paulo Sousa: Thinking Fast and Slow - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastPaulo Sousa: How I Helped Win – Then Steal – Juve’s European Crown - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Olivier Giroud, who talks about the intricacies of two great goals that he was involved in: his ‘Scorpion’ against Crystal Palace and Jack Wilshere’s classic against Norwich.Listen to the original full episodes:Olivier Giroud: The Believer - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastOlivier Giroud: How Fraternité won France the World Cup - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Graeme Souness from season one.Graeme might just be the best British midfielder of all time. In Part Two, we hear about tough tackling against Real Madrid, la dolce vita in Italy with Sampdoria, and spearheading a revolution at Rangers.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Graeme Souness from season one.Graeme might just be the best British midfielder of all time. In Part One, we hear his origin story – from frustration at Spurs to his emergence at Middlesbrough – and fantastic insights into the Liverpool winning machine of the 1980s. We also learn what kept him awake before the 1984 European Cup final in Rome.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Brad Friedel, who reveals the three toughest opponents he came up against in football: Alan Shearer, Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp.Listen to the original full episodes: Brad Friedel: How to Cope with Being Gala’s Goalie - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastBrad Friedel: Confronting Superstitions and My Nemesis Shearer - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jan Age Fjortoft, who speaks about the parallels that can be drawn between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's rivalry to Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.Listen to the original full episodes:Jan Age Fjortoft: The Art of Post-Match Interviewing - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastJan Age Fjortoft: The Making of Haaland - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Scot Gemmill, who looks back on the spell Brian Clough cast on his Nottingham Forest players.Listen to the original full episodes: Scot Gemmill: Still Under Cloughie’s Spell - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastScot Gemmill: Galvanising Gilmour - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Darren Fletcher from season one.Darren had to find a way into a Manchester United midfield that starred Roy Keane and Paul Scholes, and he describes his heartbreak over missing a Champions League final due to a refereeing error. He has come through illness and adversity, and is one of the most engaging and intelligent football guys out there.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Chapi Ferrer, who went from experiencing the highs of Barca’s Dream Team to being told he was no longer needed.Listen to the original full episodes:Chapi Ferrer: Cruyff’s Dream Team Thirty Years On - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastChapi Ferrer: Transplanting The Barca DNA - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from top coach Ian Cathro, who when at Rio Ave worked with two special young goalkeepers at the same time: Ederson and Jan Oblak.Listen to the original full episodes: Ian Cathro: The Meeting With AVB That Changed My Life - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Ian Cathro: How Conor Coady Ran the Wolves System - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Kevin Bridges from season one.Kevin is one of the UK’s funniest stand-ups and a serious football fanatic. He finds the humour in a brief encounter with his Celtic hero, Henrik Larsson; his love of FC Barcelona; a memorable trip to the Super Clasico in Buenos Aires; and the day he compared notes with Jose Mourinho.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jaap Stam, who compares the current situation at Manchester United to the culture he experienced and offers insight into the changes he'd make to get the club back to winning ways.Listen to the original full episodes:Jaap Stam: The Man Sir Alex Regretted Letting Go - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastJaap Stam: Being Part of United’s Miracle Year - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Dutch striker Luuk de Jong, who reveals what it is like to work under the legendary Xavi at Barcelona. Listen to the original full episodes: Luuk de Jong: The Lightbulb Moment - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Luuk de Jong: Xavi’s Mind Games - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Chris Waddle from season one.Chris describes his Marseilles days and scoring a remarkable goal against PSG, which really launched his career in France. Chris believes the money has to drain out of English football for it to reform root and branch and get back to proper player development. Part two also stars Eric Cantona, Franz Beckenbauer, and Enzo Francescoli.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Danny Murphy, who describes being taken to Anfield as a child and declaring to his father that one day he would grace the famous Liverpool jersey. He was as good as his promise.Listen to the original full episodes:Danny Murphy: 'I Had One Ambition – To Play For Liverpool at Anfield' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastDanny Murphy: 'If You've Got A Ninety Per Cent Pass Rate, You're A Coward' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Chris Waddle from season one.In part one, Chris – England's Zidane, in my opinion – breaks down what made him one of the great entertainers of his generation: his body swerve, his step-over, his decisions as to when to 'go for' an opponent. You hardly EVER hear a top-level athlete get to the bottom of their talent like this. Also starring the incredible Paul Gascoigne and others.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Bolo Zenden, and is about when he tried (and failed!) to disguise Ronaldo on a trip to the Maastricht Carnival.Listen to the original full episodes:Bolo Zenden: The Winger’s Masterclass: How to Beat Your Full-Back - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastBolo Zenden: Ronaldo Fenomeno, Master of Disguise - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Oriol Romeu, who explains why James Ward-Prowse is the best free-kick taker in the world. Listen to the original full episodes: Oriol Romeu: The Xavi Hernandez Helpline - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Oriol Romeu: Writing My Own Story - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jon Dahl Tomasson, who despite being passed over for the role of Denmark manager is still the national team’s number one fan. Listen to the original full episodes: Jon Dahl Tomasson: How Ancelotti Managed Milan’s Egos - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Jon Dahl Tomasson: The Secrets of Denmark’s Success - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Charlie Nicholas from season one.In part two, my guest further defied the 'Champagne Charlie' stereotype by presenting as one of the most thoughtful and passionate students of the beautiful game. We are reminded of what a magical football presence Charlie was in the 1980s and 1990s.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Roy Makaay. The Deportivo La Coruna side of the turn of the century shook up Spanish football’s elite – not least because of the talents of Roy, Djalminha, and the incredible Juan Carlos Valeron.Listen to the original full episodes:Roy Makaay: ‘At Deportivo, you want to win. At Bayern, you need to’ - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastRoy Makaay: ‘Valeron was the best player I ever played with’ - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Charlie Nicholas from season one.Charlie was a sensationally impish, creative and uplifting footballer for the mighty Aberdeen (oh, and also Celtic, Arsenal and Scotland). This turned out to be one of the most intriguing, honest football conversations I’d had for a long time. Part one features Johan Cruyff, Danny McGrain, Ron Atkinson and many more.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Oriol Romeu, who recalls how after watching a few of Xavi’s games he eventually plucked up the courage to ask the Barca legend directly for help and guidance. Listen to the original full episodes: Oriol Romeu: The Xavi Hernandez Helpline - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Oriol Romeu: Writing My Own Story - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jon Dahl Tomasson, who describes how Carlo Ancelotti was the ultimate man manager at AC Milan, soothing the egos of superstars like Pippo Inzaghi, Andrea Pirlo, Andriy Shevchenko, Rui Costa and Kaka.Listen to the original full episodes:Jon Dahl Tomasson: How Ancelotti Managed Milan’s Egos - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastJon Dahl Tomasson: The Secrets of Denmark’s Success - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with David Moyes from season one.In the second part of our interview, David describes his – in my opinion, underrated – 11 years at Everton, and the key differences between that time and his short and dramatic spell as manager of Manchester United.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Liam Henderson, who tells us how his relentless practicing of corner kicks paid off and helped achieve Hibs’ historic Scottish Cup win in 2016.Listen to the original full episodes:Liam Henderson: 'Italy is football, food and religion' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastLiam Henderson: 'The only thing I want is to play in the same team as my wee brother' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with David Moyes from season one.Live from San Sebastian, in part one the then manager of Real Sociedad talked about what formed him as a coach – starting at the age of 16 in Iceland, how he first met Sir Alex Ferguson, and his role in the development of a certain David Beckham.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from coach Bruno Lage, who tells about his time at Benfica and how the club made some drastic changes in 2004 that would eventually lead to it becoming a conveyor belt for some of Portugal's top young talent: Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, Renato Sanches, to name just a few.Listen to the original full episodes:Bruno Lage: 'Ederson, Rúben Dias, Bernardo... Benfica was a machine' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastBruno Lage: 'I try to be the coolest guy in the world' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Gordon Strachan from season one.The then Scotland manager (and forever Aberdeen legend) explained how ours is a golden age of football and claimed that Andres Iniesta was the pick of an unsurpassed generation of players. There’s also great content on being part of the undercelebrated 1992 Leeds United team that won the last First Division title before the Premier League era began.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Emma Byrne. The Republic of Ireland’s most capped woman tells us the story of leading a player revolt against the FAI and how it helped to improve the standing of women's football in the country.Listen to the original full episodes:Emma Byrne: 'Reaching the World Cup is the Biggest Achievement in Irish Sport' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastEmma Byrne: 'I was told I wouldn't play any more at 18. I wasn't having it.' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Victor Sanchez, who describes how Raul fell into Real Madrid’s lap in a historic twist of fate.Listen to the original full episodes:Víctor Sánchez: Capello Transformed Madrid with One Phrase: We Train as We Play - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastVíctor Sánchez: The Miracle Men of Deportivo de La Coruña - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Danny Murphy opens up about the impact the late former Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier had on him, as both a player and as a person.Listen to the original full episodes:Danny Murphy: 'I Had One Ambition – To Play For Liverpool at Anfield' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastDanny Murphy: 'If You've Got A Ninety Per Cent Pass Rate, You're A Coward' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Gary Neville from season one.I analysed the analysis that has made the former Manchester United defender one of the most influential broadcasters on the beautiful game. Gary says that seeing Lionel Messi playing in the Camp Nou against Manchester City was the only time he has been genuinely mesmerised by a player. He pitches his every description of a footballer with Messi as the benchmark.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Roy Makaay, who discusses the run to the Europa League final in the 2021-22 season with Rangers, as well as his thoughts on the players in the squad during his time at Ibrox.Listen to the original full episodes:Roy Makaay: ‘At Deportivo, you want to win. At Bayern, you need to’ - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastRoy Makaay: ‘Valeron was the best player I ever played with’ - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from coach Bruno Lage, who explains how the ever-growing influence of technology and social media in the digital age affects young footballers.Listen to the original full episodes:Bruno Lage: 'Ederson, Rúben Dias, Bernardo... Benfica was a machine' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastBruno Lage: 'I try to be the coolest guy in the world' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Jamie Carragher from season one.Our conversation marked a decade since Liverpool’s Champions League miracle in Istanbul; Jamie had to play through the pain barrier as he put in an immense performance against the mighty AC Milan. He’s great on another incredible final – the 2001 UEFA Cup victory over Alaves.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Liam Henderson, who describes taking the plunge and moving to Bari before they went bust. But he’s glad he didn’t quit on Italian football.Listen to the original full episodes:Liam Henderson: 'Italy is football, food and religion' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastLiam Henderson: 'The only thing I want is to play in the same team as my wee brother' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Victor Sanchez, who describes how Fabio Capello turned around a Real Madrid in utter disarray.Listen to the original full episodes:Víctor Sánchez: Capello Transformed Madrid with One Phrase: We Train as We Play - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastVíctor Sánchez: The Miracle Men of Deportivo de La Coruña - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Gary McAllister from season one.In part two, we hear about Leeds’ mighty Battle of Britain against Rangers in the Champions League in 1992. Also, becoming an unexpected Liverpool legend, and winning an extraordinary UEFA Cup final against Alavés in 2001.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Gary McAllister from season one.In part one, we hear about how Howard Wilkinson assembled a great Leeds United side including Gary, Gordon Strachan, Gary Speed, David Batty and the magnificent Eric Cantona. There’s a wonderful tale about the great Billy Bremner’s muddy loafers, and (Scotland fans look away) detail about THAT penalty miss against England at Euro ’96.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Peter Beardsley from season one.In part two, we hear about how Tino Asprilla was the funniest man in the world, blowing the title with Newcastle United in 1996, Peter’s best-ever goal, and thriving under his hero Kenny Dalglish at Liverpool.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from the wonderful Martin O’Neill, who explains how, for a football manager, winning changes everything – even your family Saturday evenings.Listen to the original full episode:https://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/martin-oneill-winninghttps://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/martin-oneill-european-trophy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Peter Beardsley from season one.What a player he was, and what stories Peter had to tell us. In part one, we hear about how street football and the ‘sweat box’ honed the young genius, what it was like to return to Newcastle under the legendary Kevin Keegan, and how Peter tried his luck abroad with Vancouver Whitecaps.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Adam Lallana, who speaks about working under Mauricio Pochettino at Southampton. The Argentine boss was like a second father to Adam, an unparalleled man manager.Listen to the original full episode:Adam Lallana: 'I've been told I don't play like an English footballer – I'm proud to have Spanish blood in me' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastAdam Lallana: 'If you understand football like Alexis Mac Allister, you can play anywhere' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Eddie Howe from season one.What Eddie achieved at Bournemouth was remarkable and when I spent an hour with him at that club, it was easy to see that he would go on to bigger things. He has a singular football mind: analytical, but also reflective. He started his managerial career operating under a transfer embargo, determined to improve the players he had. If you listen to this and try to put yourself in his dressing room, you can visualise how he achieves results.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Harry Kewell, who explains how he couldn’t turn down a coaching role with Ange Postecoglou at Celtic – despite the now Spurs manager having once rejected Harry for the Australia squad.Listen to the original full episode:https://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/harry-kewell-fight-a-week-at-leedshttps://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/harry-kewell-ange Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!This is from my Big Interview with Adam Lallana earlier this year, where he talks insightfully about Brighton's South American contingent, two of whom - Caicedo (Chelsea) and Mac Allister (Liverpool) - have now moved on. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Ilkay Gundogan, who speaks about his admiration for Pep Guardiola who instilled an almost familial sense of loyalty after he made him his first signing at Manchester City. He loved watching Pep’s Barca, but it was so tricky facing up against his Bayern Munich.Listen to the original full episode:Ilkay Gundogan: My Champions League obsession - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastIlkay Gundogan: Let me tell you about Pep - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!As Harry Kane prepares to end his 19-year relationship with Tottenham Hotspur by signing for Bayern Munich, here's our 2019 Big Interview guest, Clive Allen, on what sets the Spurs legend apart.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Harry Redknapp from season one.In part two we hear about Gareth Bale, Kanu, Joe Cole, Frank Lampard (senior and junior), how Bobby Moore nearly didn’t make it, and just how good George Best really was.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Here's the audio version of my weekly column for ESPN FC. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Harry Redknapp from season one.In part one we hear about Harry’s beginnings in football, the daftest move West Ham ever made, how not to sign Ian Wright, and what happens when you pull a fast one on Barry Fry.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I've interviewed Ilkay Gundogan at length twice - once for this podcast - and I've spent the past 12 months learning the reasons why his arrival in Barcelona became imperative for his new club and its manager, Xavi. For ESPNFC, here's what I know - why Gundogan can be the bridge from pragmatic title winners to a tougher, smarter European competitor, and what makes him the perfect lieutenant for his new boss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the end of gruelling season, there are some voices I can't shake. So here, for ESPNFC, are stories of my conversations with Pep Guardiola, Aitana Bonmati, Dani Carvajal, Unai Simon, Frenkie de Jong and Rodri - the last two with stark warnings about the repurcussions of this 11-month marathon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Real Madrid were not prepared for, nor are they equipped to cope with, the loss of their Ballon d'Or centre-forward, Karim Benzema. They need to recruit brilliantly to keep the show on the road - and after dropping around 75 million from their wage bill, they are in a strong position to do so. Expect an A-lister. The briefings here in Spain have featured Mbappe, Neymar, Haaland and Kane. This, for ESPNFC, is what I know right now, and how I think it will affect the biggest decision of Madrid's summer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!We posted this episode ahead of Real Madrid v Liverpool in the Champions League final in May 2022 - but we thought it'd be worth a repost after he announced his departure from Real Madrid.Myself and Pete discuss where Karim Benzema lands in the pantheon of Madrid forwards. How does he compare with Ronaldos 7 & 9, Raul or the forwards who made this trophy the property of Madrid in its early years?EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Brendan Rodgers from season five.Brendan recently parted company with Leicester City, so it’s worth recalling the sheer brilliance of his influence on the Foxes when he arrived. Brendan had honed his philosophy as a budding coach via regular educational visits to Spain. We hear about Samuel Eto’o, Luis Suárez, John Terry, Scott Brown and James Maddison. And there’s moving testimony about what it was like taking over at Leicester in the wake of the tragic death of the club’s beloved owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Martin O’Neill, who evokes captaining Northern Ireland during their glorious run at the 1982 World Cup in Spain.Listen to the original full episodes:https://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/martin-oneill-winninghttps://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/martin-oneill-european-trophy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Martin Braithwaite, who explains how taking a humble approach to skills development meant that he would hang on every word the likes of past masters Henrik Larsson uttered.Listen to the original full episodes:Martin Braithwaite: The Hypnotist of Barcelona - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastMartin Braithwaite: In the Court of King Leo - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Graham and Pete answer your questions on: Mismanagement sending Malaga into the mire; who will be staying and going at Rayo; and why the power balance in Madrid could be shifting.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!This month's Q & A focuses on the racist abuse suffered by Vinicius Jnr at the Mestalla last night (Sunday).We also mark Xavi's end-of-season report card, touch on a possible Messi return and say farewell to Sergio Busquets.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Harry Kewell, who claims his old Leeds team-mate David Batty was the world’s original and best holding midfielder.Listen to the original full episodes:https://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/harry-kewell-fight-a-week-at-leedshttps://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/harry-kewell-ange Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Adam Lallana, who speaks about watching his Brighton team-mate Alexis Mac Allister grace the World Cup and set up that amazing final goal.Listen to the original full episodes:Adam Lallana: 'I've been told I don't play like an English footballer – I'm proud to have Spanish blood in me' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastAdam Lallana: 'If you understand football like Alexis Mac Allister, you can play anywhere' - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Barcelona are champions of La Liga – and in the moment of the greatest triumph of his young managerial career, Xavi decided to talk about his own self-doubt. There have been plenty of times during this campaign when that inner demon would have had no shortage of fuel. It has been a strange season, there has been a lot wrong at Camp Nou, but throughout it all Xavi has solved problems and improved players. Here, for ESPNFC, is my snapshot of the man whose relationship with his role at FC Barcelona has never been as simple as it seems.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jason McAteer, who recalls how his boss at Bolton, the no-nonsense Bruce Rioch, commanded him to return his fancy new sports car to the dealership and buy a Vauxhall instead. Changed days.Listen to the original full episodes:Jason McAteer: Bruce Rioch's School of Life - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastJason McAteer: From Kaka to Keane - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Ilkay Gundogan, who describes Borussia Dortmund’s epic run in the 2013 Champions League and how he doesn’t have any regrets about losing out to Bayern Munich in the final.Listen to the original full episodes:Ilkay Gundogan: My Champions League obsession - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastIlkay Gundogan: Let me tell you about Pep - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Rainer Bonhof, who describes his friendship with Germany and Borussia Monchengladbach team-mate Berti Vogts, who epitomised the German winning mentality.Listen to the original full episodes:Rainer Bonhof: How to Win the World Cup - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastRainer Bonhof: Gerd Muller, King of the Penalty Box - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Both Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola will be remembered as two of the all-time Champions League icons. And yet both have a love-hate relationship with the 'Cup with the Big Ears' - climaxing with last year's meeting between the two teams who drew in the first leg of their semi-final rematch last night. Here, for ESPNFC, is my story on the ingredients that make this tie a distillation of the very best of this wonderful competition. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Darren Anderton, who describes the incredible team spirit that imbued England’s Euro ’96 squad.Listen to the original full episodes:Darren Anderton: Fathers, Sons and Football - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastDarren Anderton: Sheringham, Euro 96 & Eng-Arg 98 - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Martin Braithwaite, whose father’s unyielding demands made sense to him when he became a successful footballer.Listen to the original full episodes:Martin Braithwaite: The Hypnotist of Barcelona - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastMartin Braithwaite: In the Court of King Leo - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Napoli’s Serie A triumph put me in mind of my chat with their former centre-half Federico Fernandez, who himself tasted glory in the sky blue. The Argentine reminisces on scoring a double against Bayern Munich, winning the Coppa Italia and how the craziest of football cities still belongs to Diego Armando Maradona.Listen to the full original episodes:Federico Fernandez: From Ayala to Veron - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastFederico Fernandez: Dinner with Cavani - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Walter Smith, who describes Dundee United’s 1984 European Cup semi-final against Roma, an event marred by hostility and skulduggery.Listen to a classic version of the original episode:Classic Big Interview: Walter Smith - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Simon Stainrod, who describes spotting Ousmane Dembele when we was just a Rennes academy starlet and knowing that he was watching sheer class.Listen to the original full episode:Simon Stainrod: Last of the Bullfighters - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Since José Luis Mendilibar took over at Sevilla at the trough of a crisis, they are unbeaten, and have taken down Manchester United, Valencia and Villareall. They have done so amid a spate of injuries and suspension and at a time when the entire city is in the middle of a massive, three-week party that culminates with the traditional Feria D’Avril. Here’s how the Saboteur of Sevilla is doing it – but first, more news of the issue of racism in LaLiga stadia, and its highest-profile victim, Vinicius Junior.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Uwe Rosler, who tells how as a promising youngster in East Germany he was picked up by the dreaded Stasi and pressured to spy on his Lokomotive Leipzig team-mates.Listen to the original full episodes:Uwe Rösler: From Stasi Survivor to City Slicker - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastUwe Rösler: The Cult Hero of Maine Road - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Stephen Glass, who talks about how Aberdeen players who couldn’t stand Scott Brown when he was Celtic’s combative captain came to love the man after he arrived at Pittodrie.Listen to the original full episodes:Stephen Glass: The Long Road Home - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastStephen Glass: Scott Brown and the Leadership Gene - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Stuart Baxter, who explains how on earth he managed to persuade the mighty, magnificent Michael Laudrup to come to disaster-torn Kobe.Listen to the original full episodes:Stuart Baxter: Rebuilding AIK, Resurrecting Kobe - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastStuart Baxter: Working with Laudrup and Larsson - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Messi back to Barca? I didn't think this story had much legs - until I was briefed about its point of origin. Who is the chief choreographer of the idea of a Last Dance for the greatest footballer in the world? Why, it's none other than Lionel Messi, esquire. Here's everything I know about where the story is, as reported to ESPNFC. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my engaging conversation with Manuel Pellegrini we hear how during the South American phase of his managerial career the Chilean learned to control his temper and develop emotional intelligence – although a little dose of the hairdryer treatment doesn’t go amiss from time to time.We learn how a clash of ideas with Real Madrid’s president caused a departure which led to three happy years at Malaga. And there’s great stuff about current club Real Betis – working with wing legend Joaquin and winning the Copa del Rey. Like veteran Joaquin, 69-year-old Manuel is incredibly demanding of himself to maintain peak condition; every day, he says, he treats as the first of his career.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I caught up with Chilean managerial legend Manuel Pellegrini in beautiful Seville and spoke about his Atlantic crossing to sample the different footballing styles that Italy, France and England had to offer. The English game wasn’t as primitive as some might claim – thanks to the innovating force of Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal and the adaptations of Fergie at Manchester United. Also in part one, the importance of an open, enquiring, cultivated mind, and working with talents like Riquelme, Senna, Pires and Cazorla at Villareal.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Vinny Samways, who describes swapping a career in England for the searing heat of the Canary Islands where he excelled with Las Palmas.Listen to the full original episodes:Vinny Samways: Viva Las Palmas - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastVinny Samways: Ossie’s Pivote - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Sven-Göran Eriksson, who recalls how club president Paolo Mantovani was instructed by his star turns Roberto Mancini and Gianluca Vialli to bring him to Sampdoria.Listen to the original full episodes:Sven-Göran Eriksson: Lazio's scudetto, 20 years on - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastSven-Göran Eriksson: Mancini - The Art and the Fury - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Simon Stainrod, who reminisces about his happy days at Falkirk – where he is forever a club legend. He started playing for just a quid a week under old-school manager Jim Jefferies.Listen to the original full episode:Simon Stainrod: Last of the Bullfighters - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaHere's the audio version of my latest ESPN column, to get you in the mood for tonight's Real Madrid v Chelsea Champions League quartert-final first leg. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Jimmy Bullard from season five.It was back at the start of the pandemic lockdown that I chatted with Jimmy, who was surviving thanks to his love for landscape gardening. This gifted former footballer is now an insightful and ebullient media personality, and he describes signing for boyhood heroes West Ham, the genius of Paulo Di Canio, Pep, Zizou and Juan Román Riquelme, and gives keen analysis about how speed of thought sets the greats apart from the rest.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Uwe Rosler, who tells how Pep Guardiola revolutionised German football, and also pays tribute to Paul Walsh, his erstwhile strike partner at Manchester City.Listen to the original full episodes:Uwe Rösler: From Stasi Survivor to City Slicker - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastUwe Rösler: The Cult Hero of Maine Road - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Stephen Glass, who talks about how Tony Mowbray instilled an indomitable sense of confidence in a Hibernian squad brimming with youthful talent.Listen to the original full episodes:Stephen Glass: The Long Road Home - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastStephen Glass: Scott Brown and the Leadership Gene - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from my old pal Stuart Baxter, who describes taking over Vissel Kobe as manager just after the terrible Great Hanshin earthquake of 1995 had devastated the Japanese club’s home.Listen to the original full episodes:Stuart Baxter: Rebuilding AIK, Resurrecting Kobe - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastStuart Baxter: Working with Laudrup and Larsson - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaHere's my latest column for ESPN. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Shaun Maloney, recorded when the Scot was assistant at Belgium. Shaun explains how to work with bona fide – but surprisingly humble – superstars such as Kevin De Bruyne, Edin Hazard & Romelu Lukaku.Listen to the full episode:Shaun Maloney: Wigan's Great Escape - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last Wednesday, at Celtic’s Lennoxtown training complex, I caught up with the mighty Harry Kewell.In part two of our fascinating conversation, we hear how a message from Ange Postecoglou sold Harry on a coaching role at Celtic – despite Ange having once rejected Harry for the Socceroos squad. Harry is brilliant at describing how Ange’s combination of simple messaging and human decency influences his footballers. And Harry himself is no slouch at getting inside players’ heads. Indeed, World Cup star Daizen Maeda said he’s the best educative coach he’s worked with.Also in part two: How Klopp’s Liverpool can come good again. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from our 100th guest Rio Ferdinand, who recalls Manchester United’s two Champions League finals against Barcelona, and how those painful defeats revealed flaws in the genius of Sir Alex Ferguson.Listen to the original full episodes:Guest #100 Rio Ferdinand: Addicted to Winning - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastGuest #100 Rio Ferdinand: Sir Alex and my Champions League Quest (Pt 2) - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s Big Interview Bitesize is from Robert Snodgrass, who relates how he prank called Sheffield United’s Nick Montgomery, telling him that his dream of pulling on the dark blue of Scotland had come true.Listen to the original full episodes:Robert Snodgrass: A Streetwise Education - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastRobert Snodgrass: Prank Calls and Killer Balls - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Wednesday, at Celtic’s Lennoxtown training complex, I caught up with the mighty Harry Kewell, now a coach for the Glasgow giants.When you think of Harry, you picture a footballer of elegance, intelligence, lethal effectiveness. And the great Leeds United side he played in was his perfect domain, surrounded by formidable talents such as Alan Smith, Lee Bowyer, Gary Kelly, Mark Viduka, Michael Bridges, Robbie Keane, Robbie Fowler and not least David Batty. Yet for all their sophistication, those men would battle it out in training – with regular flare-ups, and be willing to go to war for each other come Saturday.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Ledley King, who describes the arrival of Edgar Davids at Tottenham Hotspur in 2005, and how the Dutchman’s ultra-competitive mentality rubbed off on the whole squad.Listen to the full original episodes:Ledley King: Terry, Cole and the Greatest School Team You've Never Heard Of - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastLedley King: Davids, Defoe & Derbies at The Lane - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This weekend the gap between Barcelona and Madrid could stretch to 12 points or be reduced to six – and which way the title race swings could depend on how the two coaches consider a match-up that has had more effect on recent Clasicos than any other: that between Madrid’s dynamic attacker, Vinicius Junior and Barcelona’s dominant defender, Ronald Araujo.Here, in an audio version of the column I wrote for ESPNFC, I trace the situation back to one of the most famous matches in the history of FC Barcelona – with a little help from a couple of the participants.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Kevin Campbell, who describes playing alongside a 14-year-old Wayne Rooney at Everton reserves and watching him run rings around grown men. Kevin could not believe his eyes.Listen to the full episodes:https://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/kevincampbell-myhat-trickinhellhttps://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/kevincampbell-gloryatgoodison Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from former West Germany midfielder Rainer Bonhof, who describes beating the magnificent Netherlands – a nation he could have played for – in the 1974 World Cup final, and lifting the new, and actually quite heavy, trophy!Listen to the full original episodes:Rainer Bonhof: How to Win the World Cup - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastRainer Bonhof: Gerd Muller, King of the Penalty Box - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Paul Robinson from season five.Paul was a Leeds United academy graduate and was goalkeeper during the stunning highs and then crushing financial collapse of the Peter Ridsdale era.Paul went to Spurs where he won the League Cup, a victory dedicated to his little son who was ill at the time.Also from this clear-thinking, straight-talking man: how it took nearly two years to get over a freak Croatia goal that wasn’t even his fault.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Owen Hargreaves, who describes just how hard it was to make the grade as an academy player at Bayern Munich, where the senior players saw the new kids on the block as a threat.Listen to the full original episodes:Owen Hargreaves: Bayern, Basketball & The Brilliance Of Zidane - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastOwen Hargreaves: Scholes, Gerrard & England's Golden Generation - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Neil Lennon, who reminisces about how Martin O’Neill came calling at his, let’s just say ‘characterful’, home, and jotted down a Leicester City contract on the back of a pizza box.Listen to the Classic version of this episode in full:Classic Big Interview: Neil Lennon - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Martin Compston, who tells how he was led astray for an evening with rock legend Prince which meant he wasn’t in the best fettle to play alongside Clarence Seedorf in Jose Mourinho’s Soccer Aid side.Martin Compston: Prince, Paolo and Gary Tank Commander - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastMartin Compston: The Night We Stopped Messi's Celebration - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaHere is the audio version of my column for ESPN FC - on how two LaLiga giants are facing perilous times. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!This is part 2 of the monthly Q&A, where we take questions on Girona, Sevilla, the Spanish football pyramid and the job being done by Javier Aguirre at Mallorca.Enjoy!G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaHere's me and Pete Jenson's dissection of last Thursday's Clasico Copa del Rey semi-final at the Bernabeu, which finished 1-0 to Barcelona.We also talk Casemiro and reflect on players who have crossed the Clasico divide, include Luis Enrique Martinez, Figo, Michael Laudrup and Robert Prosinecki. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A referee scandal. Contract disputes around two of his teenage sensations. Impending player sales that must fill a 200m black hole in the club accounts. And the prospect of moving his team to an inferior playing surface, and playing in front of smaller crowds. The pressures on Xavi are serious – and that’s before a Clasico on Thursday. Here, for ESPN, is how I think it all fits together.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Ledley King, who describes learning his stuff as a kid in Bow along with a few other future kings of London.Listen to the original full episodes:Ledley King: Terry, Cole and the Greatest School Team You've Never Heard Of - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastLedley King: Davids, Defoe & Derbies at The Lane - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Carlo Ancelotti has pledged to promote him to the first team full-time next season.Raúl accelerated his development after watching one goal.Spain and Uruguay are set to duel it out for his international future.His debut drew comparisons with Messi.And so, for ESPNFC, here’s an audio version of my column about Álvaro, the 18-year-old who may well become the tip of the spear for a new generation of winners in white. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from John McGinn, who recalls winning with Hibernian at Hampden in 2016 in a dramatic match against Rangers, to claim the club’s first Scottish Cup in over a century.Listen to the full original episodes:https://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/johnmcginn-thefireinsidehttps://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/johnmcginn-herooftheholteend Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my intense, fascinating Big Interview with Martin O’Neill, we hear about how this keen student of human nature has an obsession with true crime. Martin speaks about captaining a Northern Ireland side which transcended the sectarian divide and defeated hosts Spain in the 1982 World Cup. Oh, and there’s glory days with Nottingham Forest – who says lifting the European Cup was just for the likes of Puskas, Di Stefano and Best?Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from John Hartson, who informs us that coming up against Roberto Ayala was his toughest physical test – despite the former Celtic striker being nicknamed ‘Big Bad John’ and the ex-Valencia centre-half being nicknamed ‘The Mouse’.Listen to the full original episodes:https://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/johnhartson-knock-emover-pick-embackup https://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/johnhartson-howisilencedthekop Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As one of the most charming and thoughtful men to have graced football, Martin O’Neill didn’t require a ghost writer for his recent autobiography On Days Like These.When we spoke, Martin reflected on the human tragedy of the Troubles, and, as an Irishman living in England at the time, the impact on his own life. There’s also great content about how as a manager, winning changes everything – even your family Saturday nights.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Kevin Campbell, who reflects on his time at Trabzonspor, which although brief, brought affection and admiration from the fans that still endures.Listen to the full original episode:https://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/kevincampbell-myhat-trickinhellhttps://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/kevincampbell-gloryatgoodison Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaThis is my weekly column for ESPN FC and covers Carlo Ancelotti's obsession with Liverpool - stretching back decades and culminating in last night's incredible 5-2 win for his Real Madrid team at Anfield. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I chatted with Adam Lallana recently, and the Brighton midfielder reflected on famous Real Madrid encounters from his Liverpool days. Ahead of the forthcoming clash of these giants, here’s a reminder of what Adam said about relentless Real and magnificent Modric.Listen to the original full episodes:https://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/adam-lallana-p1 https://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/adam-lallana-p2 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from John McGinn, who recalls Scotland’s first qualification for a major tournament in over two decades, when they won in Serbia in their Euro 2000 play-off. Oh what a night!Listen to the full original episodes:https://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/johnmcginn-thefireinsidehttps://shows.acast.com/thebiginterviewwithgrahamhunter/episodes/johnmcginn-herooftheholteend Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Xavi has some history with Manchester United. He seriously considered joining them when he felt unwanted and unloved at Barcelona. He played in some epic encounters between the two teams. And now, a little over a year after taking over at Camp Nou, his team in transition meet a resurgent United. Here's my ESPNFC column about their previous, the amendments Xavi has made to Pep Guardiola's bible, and why he may revert to it when he faces Erik ten Hag's team in the Europa League. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, who explains how his prolific scoring record depended on having a partner with a different, more technical skillset to his.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jason McAteer, who talks about coming up against the magnificent Kaka when Ireland faced Brazil – possibly the hardest challenge of his career.Listen to the original full episodes:Jason McAteer: From Kaka to Keane - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | AcastJason McAteer: Bruce Rioch's School of Life - The Big Interview with Graham Hunter | Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another Bitesize from the insightful Jamie Carragher, in which he reflects upon Liverpool’s miraculous 4-0 Champions League turnaround in 2019 – a product of the perfect blend of the Anfield crowd, Barca complacency, footballing courage and a dash of Klopp magic.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaHere's the audio version of my column for ESPN FC - it focuses on how I believe Spain and Spanish football are failing Vinicius.G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Sven-Göran Eriksson from season five.I travelled to Sven’s splendid home in Sweden to chat primarily about the 20th anniversary of his guiding Lazio to only their second-ever Serie A in 2000. The title was won after an epic battle with Carlo Ancelotti’s mighty Juventus. What a side Sven assembled, not least the holy trinity of Roberto Mancini, Siniša Mihajlović and Juan Sebastián Verón.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jamie Carragher, a Liverpool legend who reflects on arch-rivals Manchester United winning that most extraordinary of Champions League finals against Bayern Munich in 1999 in the Camp Nou, and how David Beckham was their inspiration.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from (Aberdeen legend) Gordon Strachan, who pays tribute to Andres Iniesta, the master who he first came across in a Celtic v Barcelona clash. When Gordon saw Barca’s passing stats, he thought the machine was broken!Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Here's my ESPN column for this week. I think you'll like it. It's an amazing tale - of Rayo Vallecano's Isi Palazón. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from the late, great Gianluca Vialli, who reminisces about underdogs Sampdoria’s epic Serie A triumph in 1991, and losing out to Johan Cruyff’s Barcelona in two European finals.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaWelcome to part two of the January Q and A - we talk Sevilla and Monchi, La Liga's relegation battle, Pep's changing relationship with the media and a tribute to our late La Liga TV colleague Simon Hanley.Enjoy G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why are La Liga clubs desperate for the transfer window to close? Is the sale of Casemiro to Manchester United the reason Madrid are falling off the pace? Can Barcelona 1-0 their way to the title? What next for Spain's generation of progressive young coaches? All these questions and more answered by Graham and Pete in the first part of our monthly Q&A show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another Bitesize from the astute Gary Neville. Gary explains his approach to television analysis – don’t treat the viewer as an idiot by stating the obvious. Instead, try to view a match in terms of overall patterns and then break it down by focusing on certain passages of play. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Gary Neville, who is irked by the way the term ‘genius’ is bandied around in football parlance. But seeing Messi playing in the Camp Nou against Manchester City in 2015 left him genuinely speechless. This episode of The Big Interview is brought to you by Innocent Driver. Their panel of expert injury solicitors can get you the compensation you deserve. Plus they can repair your car and provide a replacement to keep you mobile. Innocent Driver deal with the insurer of the at-fault driver. That means you don’t have to pay your excess and your no-claims bonus is unaffected. They’ll handle everything for you.Visit Innocent Driver today. Rated excellent on Trustpilot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaThis is the audio version of my column for ESPN - on how La Real president Jokin Aperribay has laid down an incredible template for success at the San Sebastian club. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Federico Fernandez, who describes meeting his boyhood hero Roberto Ayala, and what it was like to receive advice and encouragement from the great defender.This episode of The Big Interview is brought to you by Innocent Driver. Their panel of expert injury solicitors can get you the compensation you deserve. Plus they can repair your car and provide a replacement to keep you mobile. Innocent Driver deal with the insurer of the at-fault driver. That means you don’t have to pay your excess and your no-claims bonus is unaffected. They’ll handle everything for you.Visit Innocent Driver today. Rated excellent on Trustpilot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my engrossing chat with Adam Lallana, we hear about the Brighton man’s adoration for Alexis Mac Allister, the most unselfish of players, whose World Cup performances were so accomplished that Lionel Messi kept looking for him to link play. Adam studies Messi’s technique in order that he can sustain his career for as long as possible. Also: buying into Roberto De Zerbi’s unique deep build-up approach, Santi Cazorla and feeling intimidated to be in the same team as Steven Gerrard.This episode of The Big Interview is brought to you by Innocent Driver. Their panel of expert injury solicitors can get you the compensation you deserve. Plus they can repair your car and provide a replacement to keep you mobile. Innocent Driver deal with the insurer of the at-fault driver. That means you don’t have to pay your excess and your no-claims bonus is unaffected. They’ll handle everything for you.Visit Innocent Driver today. Rated excellent on Trustpilot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adam Lallana’s grandfather hailed from Madrid, and the elegant attacking midfielder’s Latin blood might explain why he bonded so closely with Mauricio Pochettino at Southampton. The Argentine boss was like a second father to Adam, the man manager supreme.Also in part one of this one-of-the-best-ever Big Interviews, why if you are going to lose a Champions League final, you might as well lose it to the mighty Real Madrid. And why Luca Modric is pound for pound the best midfielder in the world.This episode of The Big Interview is brought to you by Innocent Driver. Their panel of expert injury solicitors can get you the compensation you deserve. Plus they can repair your car and provide a replacement to keep you mobile. Innocent Driver deal with the insurer of the at-fault driver. That means you don’t have to pay your excess and your no-claims bonus is unaffected. They’ll handle everything for you.Visit Innocent Driver today. Rated excellent on Trustpilot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!This is my column for ESPN on how Barca beat Real Madrid 3-1 in Sunday's Supercopa final - Xavi's first trophy as Camp Nou manager. EnjoyG********************************This episode of The Big Interview is brought to you by Innocent Driver. Their panel of expert injury solicitors can get you the compensation you deserve. Plus they can repair your car and provide a replacement to keep you mobile. Innocent Driver deal with the insurer of the at-fault driver. That means you don’t have to pay your excess and your no-claims bonus is unaffected. They’ll handle everything for you.Visit Innocent Driver today. Rated excellent on Trustpilot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Robert Snodgrass from season five.The irrepressible winger – now of Hearts – plied his trade at West Ham back then, and we hear how a tough Glasgow upbringing grounded him for when his big chances came at Livingston and then Leeds. Robert dips into his trove of masterly prank phone calls, and there’s an amazing soliloquy on how to make the absolute best of yourself as a footballer and a man.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Gareth Bale announces his retirement, here is a quick, no-frills, bonus listen – from the Big interview archive, Harry Redknapp talks about his experience with a young Bale at Tottenham Hotspur, and how that spell was the making of a player who would become one of the best in the world.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today - January 6, 2023 - saw the sad news of Gianluca Vialli's passing. Luca was an incredible guy who I first met in 1995 and welcomed as a guest on The Big Interview in 2016. We kept in touch throughout the years and this is my tribute to a very special man. Grahamp.s. Here's my 2016 Big Interview with Luca Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following the tragic passing of Luca Vialli, here's another chance to hear my interview with the great man from season two. I'll record a personal tribute later today.ThanksG************Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Gianluca Vialli from season two.Gianluca was my favourite footballer during the 1990s, and I had the honour of getting to know him at his peak. He graced Serie A with his goals during a golden age of Italian club football, winning the league and getting to three European finals with Vujadin Boskov’s Sampdoria – an unfancied club who caught the imagination with their togetherness and sheer will to will. At Juventus, Luca played amid a mouth-watering array of talent, as part of the Turin side’s Tridente attack, culminating in a Champions League win on his final game. We hear about how coach Marcello Lippi’s pressing, offensive style at Juve broke the mould of the Italian approach. Gianluca also gives incredible insights into his time at Chelsea – falling out of favour with Ruud Gullit, replacing Gullit as boss, and then his shock and anger at his own unmerited sacking. My friends, it’s simply one of the best Big Interviews ever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to part two of our annual Oscars show, where you wonderful Socios – as well as Graham Hunter and Pete Jenson – decide who wins categories including best documentary and best costume design (i.e. kit!).2022 was such an incredibly memorable year for football that Graham even donned his Highland finery to honour our big awards bash.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our annual Oscars show, where YOU, our beloved Socios – as well as Graham Hunter and Pete Jenson – decide who wins categories including best performer in a lead role and best director (of football).2022 was such an incredibly memorable year for football that Graham even donned his Highland finery to honour our big awards bash.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just before Real Madrid play in the Copa Del Rey – the start of an avalanche of romantic and unpredictable football in this incomparable competition – here are some of the many reasons why I can’t take my eyes from it. This one goes out to my friend and colleague, Simon Hanley, who we lost on December 31, his 60th birthday.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Welcome to part two of the Q and A with myself and Pete Jenson.Here we chat through Spain's performance in Qatar and the future for La Roja, the lost art of defending and who would be the bargain buy from this World Cup.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Argentina parties like it’s 1986, Graham and Pete Jenson take your questions: What were the in-game calls from the coaches that helped create a final for the ages? Will Messi make it to a sixth World Cup? And what went wrong for the dancing Brazilians? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Recorded soon after the final whistle in arguably the greatest World Cup final of all time, this is my take on the night when Messi fulfilled his destiny and lifted the World Cup with Argentina.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olivier Giroud could win a SECOND World Cup tonight. During this World Cup in Qatar, he has become France's all-time leading goalscorer. I sat down with the Frenchman in Milan just over a year ago - November 2021 - to discuss his life and career. You'll hear about the euphoria that broke out after Olivier set up the winning goal against Lille in 2012 which all but clinched Montpellier’s only top-flight title. Then there’s France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, delivered, Olivier says, by team spirit. Did you know that N’Golo Kanté really does bend the rules at cards, and that Olivier and Hugo Lloris celebrated in a Moscow duck pond?EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emi Martinez is 90 minutes away from immortality with Argentina at the 2022 World Cup. The Argentine goalkeeper was a Big Interview guest in August 2020. Sit back and listen to Emi tell you his extraordinary origin story. Enjoy G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lionel Messi stands on the brink of World Cup glory. The Argentine has been a recurring topic amongst our 150 guests over the last seven years. Sit back and enjoy some of their memories of the GOAT. Pablo Zabaleta recalls a quiet, skinny Messi in the Argentina Under-20s dressing room… then he did his talking on the pitch. Gary Neville says that seeing Messi playing in the Camp Nou against Manchester City was the only time he has been genuinely mesmerised by a player. Countryman Federico Fernández speaks of a humble, family guy.Ander Herrera recalls playing for Real Zaragoza against Barcelona when Messi decided to take the game by the scruff of the neck and singlehandedly set up victory.Lastly there’s a quick contribution from Graeme Souness, who considers Messi the greatest of all time. EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

France 2 Morocco 0. Now we know it will be Argentina v France. Messi v Mbappe. All of that. But don't overlook or under-analyse the coach who has already won this tournament as both captain and coach, but who somehow avoids the spotlight. Nor how close Morocco were to shaking the world one more time. If only they had a Kylian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's a special kind of preview for tonight's second semi-final, Morocco v France. This is a column I wrote for ESPNFC about a fascinating goalkeeper I have had the pleasure of interviewing twice during his time in La Liga, with Girona and Sevilla. Yassine 'Bono' Bounou has a great story, he is a colourful, engaging guy and he is one of several Morocco players to make their name at this tournament. One more win and they'll be the greatest underdog story in the history of the World Cup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Recorded shortly after the final whistle in last night's semi-final - Argentina 3 Croatia 0 - this is my take on Messi, Alvarez, the penalty and the raucous atmosphere which is driving Argentina forward in this tournament.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Graham and Pete Jenson preview the semi-finals – how will suspensions affect Argentina’s gameplan? How could this World Cup change Luka Modric’s swansong? And which Morocco players look like attracting the most interest when the market opens in January?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a close game, England proved again they belong at the top table of international football. But my enjoyment of this quarter final, which featured signature performances by thrilling footballers, was impaired by the performance of a referee that got several huge calls wrong. Here's where I think the game was decided, and what it means for Gareth Southgate's team. Final four confirmed. Croatia. Argentina. Morocco. France. What’s next?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I've been deeply saddened by the shocking and tragic news of the death of the journalist, broadcaster and author Grant Wahl at the World Cup yesterday. I couldn't speak to you about two monumental quarter finals without first addressing the loss of a spirited and pioneering talent. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Ahead of Croatia's meeting with Brazil tomorrow, here's one of my favourite Big Interview guests of all time, Croat legend Slaven Bilic. He talks through the big personalties of Croatia's great France 98 squad - who finished third in the tournament - including Zvonimir Boban, Davor Suker, Alen Boksic and Robert Prosinecki. Enjoy!G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adios then, La Roja. Spain's World Cup unravelled on a sad night for this team and this observer. Before I left Education City, I'm sending you this report. If this is goodbye for the great Sergio Busquets, then - wow - it's been a pleasure. But maybe the Spain coach's addiction to his talents restricted La Roja this time in their attempts to break down a spirited opponent. Here's what I thought about the way it all ended - the regrets, the tears and the future for Spain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

24 hours before they take on Morocco in the last 16, I recorded this about Spain. Here are the lessons Luis Enrique learned from a previous desert ordeal; what's behind a change in the response to this team from British media; and my responses to questions from our listeners. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's late, and it's been a crazy and I think embarrassing night for Spain - not because of the identity of the opponent who defeated them, but because of how they performed and the decisions they made.Here's where I think it went wrong for this team and what they need to address if they are to recover from this loss. It's a long list. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Here's my view from the Spanish training camp on the eve of their decisive match against Japan this evening. I'll talk you through my exchanges with Luis Enrique at the pre-match press conference and what I saw in front of me as I watched training from the bleachers. Oh and a cameo from Andres Iniesta!EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaIn 2013, I wrote Spain: The Inside Story of La Roja's Historic Treble. I had behind-the-scenes access at all three tournaments - with the 2010 World Cup as the centrepiece - and used my insight to tell the story of the greatest achievement in the history of international football. This is my conversation with Neil White, co-founder of BackPage who published the book and believes it is the best title his company have released.EnjoyGBuy Spain: The Inside Story of La Roja's Historic TrebleSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaHere's a short postscript to last night's episode, clarifying some of my thoughts on the match and chucking in a bit of Porridge for good measure!Enjoy!G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!I recorded this not long after the final whistle at the Al Bayt stadium in Qatar. It was a fascinating evening which ended with Germany rescuing a point against La Roja. Here's my take on a high-level match with fierce pressing, high lines and lots of risk taking. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I hope you enjoy hearing in the background to this report the fun the Spain players were having as I recorded during their training session. I hope also that you enjoy what sense I try to make of what I've seen, and from what I have heard from the coach Luis Enrique and players such as Dani Olmo. My guess is that we are in for a treat when Spain take on Germany.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What a night. It's late. I'm tired. Before I turn it in, here's my bulletin from Doha after an extraordinary opening performance from this young Spain team.There is also a supporting cast that includes Iker Casillas and the great Brazilian No.9, Ronaldo. And Karen Carpenter.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!This is my preview of tomorrow's opening Group E match between Spain and Costa Rica, a game I believe La Roja have to win. I'll give you some insight into the Spain camp, where I've been chatting to Luis Enrique, Aymeric Laporte and Cesar Azpilicueta. I predict Spain's starting 11 and give my analysis of how Costa Rica will set up. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!This is it... The Big Interview Live from the World Cup! I'm embedded with La Roja for the whole tournament ... and this is the inside track on everything that's happening in and around camp ahead of the opener against Costa Rica on Wednesday. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of our gripping conversation, we delve into Roy Makaay’s time at the Super Depor side coached by Javier Irureta and starring the incomparable Juan Carlos Valerón.We hear about Roy’s agony at Euro 2000 – an ankle injury meant he had to witness the Netherlands’ semi-final penalty-shootout defeat by Italy from a hospital ward.Also: Holland’s Qatar chances and helping Rangers reach a European final.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perhaps Roy Makaay’s striking brilliance was linked to the Scottish roots of the Dutchman’s surname, although admittedly the influence of guys like Frans Thijssen, who taught him to shoot with both feet, must also have played a part.We discuss striking legends past and present: Gerd Müller, Karim Benzema, Robert Lewandowski. And I suggest that scoring a hat-trick for Deportivo de La Coruña in Munich didn’t exactly hurt Roy’s chances of Bayern signing him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaThis is the audio version of my column for ESPN FC.Ahead of tomorrow's (Friday) Spain World Cup squad announcement, I reflect on how they have plenty of issues to resolve and a very tough group. They also have a talented coach who could be entering the job market post World Cup.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Tim Sherwood from season five.Tim was recruited by Kenny Dalglish for Blackburn Rovers in 1992, and the classy midfielder captained the side to their glorious Premier League title win in season 1994-95. Rovers had blown a big lead over Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United, and Tim describes the sleepless nights ahead of the decisive final day. It is incredible to thing that King Kenny’s famous Rovers team trained on a public park.Also: Shearer, Speedie and making Emmanuel Petit cry.Enjoy.GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Socios!This is my latest column for ESPN - it's about why I think Real Betis' Borja Iglesias should be on La Roja's plane to Qatar. Enjoy!G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my Big Interview with the engaging Emma Byrne, we reflect on the remarkable rise of Barca’s Femení. When they played a Clásico in a sold-out Camp Nou, Emma realised that the women’s game had arrived.We hear the extraordinary tale of how an impromptu training session at Arsenal led to her being appointed the Gunners No.1. And there’s chat about how Arsenal won the Champions League against all odds. Not bad for a woman who was told, following surgery at the age of 18, that she could forget playing at the top level.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Byrne is the Republic of Ireland’s most capped woman. Now a radio and TV analyst, the retired goalkeeper reflects on the current Girls in Green’s qualification for the World Cup – which she considers to be the greatest achievement in Irish sporting history.It wasn’t always thus: Emma and her team-mates once went to war with the FAI to ensure that the women’s national side was given the respect and support it deserved.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!We posted this episode ahead of Real Madrid v Liverpool in the Champions League final in May 2022 - but we thought it'd be worth a repost after he picked up the Ballon d'Or last night. Myself and Pete discuss where Karim Benzema lands in the pantheon of Madrid forwards. Benzema hit 45 goals in 44 games last season – but how does he compare with Ronaldos 7 & 9, Raul or the forwards who made this trophy the property of Madrid in its early years?EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaPart two sees us reflect on the Madrid-Barca midfield battle ahead fo Sunday, and give an insight into 'Clasico week' as a journalist - with a little help from Jerry Seinfeld. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaThis is the first part of our Clasico Q and A. We dissect Barca 3 Inter 3 and how it will feed into the Clasico. We talk about the futures of Pique and Busquets and Madrid's quality of 'jeta'.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my extraordinary conversation with Víctor Sánchez, we hear about his heady days as a player and later a coach with little old Deportivo de La Coruña.A sublimely talented Deportivo side won La Liga and put in some amazing European performances under the guidance of Javier Irureta, including turning round a 4-1 away deficit to AC Milan.Also in part two: spoiling Real Madrid’s 100th birthday party and how Victor coached his Depor side to an incredible 2-2 draw in the Nou Camp to avoid relegation.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Socios!Here's my latest ESPN column on the divergent paths of Vinicius Jnr and Ousmane Dembele, ahead of Sunday's Clasico.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I caught up with Víctor Sánchez del Amo in Madrid, the city in which he enjoyed a miraculous first big season as a two-footed winger for Real. Via a training-ground revolution, Fabio Capello instilled a unity of purpose and suddenly Los Blancos were La Liga champions.The methods of the next short-lived boss, Jupp Heynckes, met with dressing-room resistance and league form collapsed. Yet it was that season in which Real ended their 32-year wait to be European champions. You could not make it up.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Ossie Ardiles from season five.Ossie was a truly magical midfielder, who played for his hometown side Instituto de Córdoba while both doing his military service and attending university. The fact that he didn’t have time for politics may have saved his life – many of his fellow students were ‘disappeared’ during the darkest period of Argentina’s history.There’s also amazing content about playing through injury to win the 1978 World Cup under legendary coach César Luis Menotti.And we hear about life at Tottenham when war broke out between the UK and Argentina in 1982.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaSevilla are in trouble, plagued by injuries, poor recruitment, off-form players and rampant city rivals. Their head coach Julien Lopetegui is under major pressure, but will Sevilla's director of football, Monchi, pull the trigger?This is the audio version of my latest column for ESPN FC.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaIt's not been a good international break for Barcelona so far, with the loss of Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo to injury.Two Champions League matches and the Clasico await - can Barca bounce back? Or will it wreck their season?Enjoy this audio version of my latest column for ESPN FC. G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here comes Ansu Fati's pathway to Qatar, the four clubs trying to break into the elite group of Spain's top division and which players can still gatecrash their national team's plans for the World Cup. It's Graham and Pete with part two of our monthly Q&A show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaIt's part one of this month's Q&A with me and Pete Jenson taking your questions on - racism in Spanish football, Sevilla under Lopetegui, Getafe's (and ex-Man City) Turkish forward Enes Unal and why there should be a documentary on Joaquin!EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my interview with the superbly engaging Danny Murphy, we hear more about his relationship with the late former Liverpool manager Gérard Houllier, who guided the Reds to a famous cup treble.We hear about Fulham’s incredible run to the 2010 Europa League Final under Roy Hodgson.Also: amazing insights into analysing tactics and why midfielders who don’t take risks are just cowards.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!This week's EPSN column focuses on the fallout from the weekend's Mardrid derbi. in which Real Madrid beat Atleti 2-1. I consider the parlous state of Atleti and Simeone's future, plus the racist abuse of Vinicius Jnr. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Danny Murphy is one of television’s finest analysts, not entirely surprising for a man who played the beautiful game with such intelligence, vision and skill.In part one of our conversation, Danny describes being taken to Anfield as a child and declaring to his father that one day he would grace the famous Liverpool jersey. He was as good as his promise.After a glittering spell, the classy midfielder joined Charlton. It was ‘horrible’ being at Anfield again in an opposition jersey, although his last visit there as a player, with Fulham, was therapeutic, especially when the Kop sang his name.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Emile Heskey from season five.The title of Emile’s autobiography ‘Even Heskey Scored’ was a good-humoured swipe at the widespread fallacy that he wasn’t a prolific striker.There’s great insight into why Leicester City’s players would run through walls for Martin O’Neill.Emile’s big move to Liverpool required a major adaptation; he loved it and the Kop loved him, but eventually he wanted out of the Anfield pressure cooker.Also: being a serial cup winner, how Steve Claridge was the worst trainer ever, and how the Golden Generation thrashed Germany. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaSelf-control is part of greatness. At 22, Vinicius jnr stands at a crossroads. Will he use his fury as fuel?This is my latest column for ESPNFC.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When I asked Liam Henderson who the best opponent he has faced in Serie A is he didn’t miss a beat: Roma’s Lorenzo Pellegrini.Also in part two, fascinating stuff about how you can’t sell a dummy to an Italian, Liam’s dream of playing for Steve Clarke’s Scotland and how his relentless practicing of corner-kicks set up Hibs’ historic Scottish Cup triumph of 2016.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I caught up with Liam Henderson in beautiful Florence, where the elegant midfielder plies his trade with Empoli.The former Celtic man has spent four years in Italy, initially playing under Fabio Grosso at Bari and Verona, who Liam had watched winning the 2006 World Cup on television and felt he was fated to work under. Liam loves Italy – especially the cuisine, and feels his talents are more appreciated there than in his native Scotland.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manuel Pellegrini's Real Betis are on the rise, and they play their La Liga co-leaders Real Madrid at the Bernabeu on Saturday. From my latest column for EPSNFC, here's why I can't wait for the weekend's match. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my enlightening chat with Bruno Lage, the Wolves manager goes deep into how the power of the image can overcome the distractions of modern life when seeding his football philosophy into the minds of young players.There’s great content about why a boss should be the coolest guy on the pitch. And I ask: how on earth do coaches of top clubs cope with a World Cup slap bang in the middle of the season?Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The La Liga weekend just past was proof that fans of the Spanish national team should be getting excited ahead of their opening match in Qatar in a little over 90 days. The form of Alvaro Morata, Ansu Fati and Gerard Moreno are an indication of a growing maturity. Enjoy the audio version of my latest column for ESPNFC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wolves manager Bruno Lage has imported the wisdom and techniques he garnered coaching at Benfica into the Black Country.The Portuguese has also learned a lot from life in England: about the incredible football passion and, paradoxically, how not to dwell too much on a setback.Also in part one, amazing insight into Benfica’s talent conveyor belt.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The simmering transfer of Casemiro from Madrid to Manchester United would be the most disappointing in my many years reporting on this game.For Madrid, it's sabotage: their midfield can't be the same without one of its keystones and the domino affect could mean the end of an era.For a footballer who turns 31 this season, it's bad timing: he is dropped into a team with no Champions League football this season and likely none next season. He does not speak the language. But he will make a lot of money.  For United, it's a challenge: they are moving for one of my favourite players to watch and analyse - a risk-taker, an improviser, a jazz player. Does that sound like the perfect pivot for an Erik ten Hag team to you?Here's my take on an extraordinary and incomprehensible transfer saga. Feel free to throw it back in my face at the end of the season if it all works out great.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It means football is for the smart guys - Dani Alves told me that a few years ago now, but last weekend the evidence was as clear as ever.Inspired by the quick thinking of, among others, Casemiro, Davide Ancelotti and CS Osasuna, this is from my writing for ESPNFC. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Virgil van Dijk from season five.The world’s greatest defender’s big break was his move to Celtic, which grounded him in British football. Next up Southampton, where coach Ronald Koeman picked on Virgil – only to bring out the best in him.You’ll hear about risk taking, passing and pressing at Anfield, and why Lionel Messi was Virgil’s most challenging opponent.And I ask, just how the heck did Liverpool turn around the 3-0 defeat away to Barcelona in the semi-final of the Champions League in 2019?Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!In part two of this month's Q&A, me and Pete Jenson go big on Atleti. Is Simeone in his comfort zone? Can they challenge this season? There's our take on Riqui Puig's move to LA Galaxy, Girona's chances of survival, what impact the World Cup break will have on teams... and we even squeeze in some chat on the mighty Aberdeen!Enjoy!G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaWe're back for the first Q and A of the season (with special guest Pete Jenson)... and we've been inundated with questions on Barca's financial situation, player registration and Frenkie de Jong. You'll also get an update on Real Madrid, as they prepare for another momentous season.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my second Big Interview with David Moyes, we hear about the ecstasy of beating Seville and the agony of going out to Eintracht Frankfurt in last season’s Europa League.There’s moving testimony about man-managing Andriy Yarmolenko after his native Ukraine was invaded.And David also breaks down the stirring talent and mouth-watering potential of Declan Rice, who would do well to observe the likes of Harry Kane when on England duty.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Only Bayern and Barça have swept the board (all six trophies) in a season. Madrid want to emulate them. Rivals in turmoil, or weakened …but no Mbappé, or a Plan B signing - can they do it? This is my latest column for ESPN FC. Enjoy!G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here we go friends – a new season of The Big Interview, and we open with David Moyes, a guest so enthralling the first-time round that we invited him back.In part one we chat about how the phenomenon of pre-season has evolved from afternoon bevvying to the era of the perma-fit player.Returning to West Ham as manager felt like a big gamble for David, but he was courageous enough to graft style onto his core values – and for that, he deserves all the success he is currently enjoying.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jules Kounde once kicked his mum as a furious kid but Barcelona's new signing now has an even temperament to match his talent. In my latest column for EPSN FC, I reflect on Kounde's musical passion, the influence of Gus Poyet on his career and how patience proved to be his biggest virtue in snubbing Chelsea for a move to the Camp Nou. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's been a great deal written and said about Barcelona's financial operation during the close season. They have mortgaged many of their tomorrows in an attempt to find their way out of a financial crisis. The Polish striker is the biggest bet of all.Why? Because, as I argue here in a piece I wrote for ESPNFC, he is the one piece they hope will make a difference in a competition whose riches can begin to pay off their suffocating debt: the Champions League.It could be a happy marriage - but Lewandowski has high standards and his new employer and his new teammates must match them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I wasn't in Las Vegas for this one, but I was as transfixed by the latest chapter of the rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid as usual.So many storylines - and I hope most of them are in here. Hazard fails as false 9. Piqué the bad guy. Araújo versus Vinicius forever. Enter Lewandowski.And in all of that, Raphina emerges as the hero.You might have missed it. Here's my take. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Money is always in the mix when it comes to working out where FC Barcelona might be next season. On one hand, they have a core of exciting young talent including Ansu Fati, Pedri and Gavi. But, as I write this week for ESPNFC and read here for you, the trick may be keeping them together.Enjoy G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The recipe for Thibaut Courtois’ titanic performance in the Champions League final included a generous helping of Sergio Ramos and a sprinkling of resentment wrapped in an old issue of 4-4-2 magazine. From my writing for ESPNFC, here’s what I thought about after sampling the big Belgian’s showstopper.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story is from Michael Laudrup. My aim with Michael was simple: I wanted to get HIM to tell YOU how he did what he did. Here’s me trying to do that and Michael exceeding all of our expectations. Not for the first time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Welcome to part two of the final Q&A of the 2021-22 season. Myself and Pete Jenson take questions on Xavi and Barcelona, Valencia, Ten Haag, Rangers and Aberdeen.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!This is it... part one of the final Q & A of the season. You asked, we answered. Madrid v Liverpool, Ancelotti, Camavinga, Rodrygo, Jordan Henderson, Eden Hazard, La Liga chat and much more.Sit back and enjoy!Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nedum Onuoha is one of the canniest and best-informed observers of the beautiful game in broadcasting. The likeable Mancunian doesn’t hold back when criticising some of his fellow pundits, who can be biased and have forgotten what it’s like to be a player. Also in part two – brushing off accusations that Nedum deliberately threw his beloved Man City a line when playing against them for QPR in that most famous of league deciders in 2012.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They may have missed out on Kylian Mbappe, but Real Madrid have already proved that the recruitment plan they drew up after losing Neymar to Barcelona works - and now they have an Mbappe-sized war chest to take into the summer market. Written for ESPN FC, here is my column on the Champions League finalists' inevitable next move.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In his autobiography Kicking Back, Nedum Onuoha describes how his Nigerian immigrant parents instilled in him an incredible work ethic and a sense of respect for others.The pundit and ex-defender’s time at his beloved Manchester City’s Academy grounded him and taught him other values: how to be streetwise and resourceful. Standing in the tunnel with the teams as a ball boy whetted his appetite for the big time.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Liverpool legend and analyst extraordinaire Jamie Carragher. He’s going to take you to two European finals – a dressing room so exhausted it can’t celebrate a UEFA Cup win; and first, a certain night in Istanbul in 2005.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’ story comes from our very first episode, with Gary Neville. This is Gary breaking down exactly where his ground-breaking analysis comes from and what he hopes to achieve every time he steps into the studio.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from the one and only Harry Redknapp. He’s going to start you out with some Elvis, but then move on to a different King – King Kanu of Nigeria and Portsmouth, and one of my favourite stories from our podcast series.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today you’ll hear from Paul Clement, Carlo Ancelotti’s former assistant manager at Real Madrid, who reveals how Cristian Ronaldo helped calm him down in the tunnel before the 2014 Champions League final against Atletico in Lisbon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my Big Interview with the eloquent, funny, intelligent Jon Dahl Tomasson we talked coaching, and about how his recent stint as Malmo manager culminated in an at times tough learning experience in the Champions League. Jon lives for football and it’s the challenging all-round nature of a club project that inspires him as a coach.Also in part two, great insights into how Denmark so regularly punch above their weight, and why Jon knocked back Barcelona to play for Milan.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today you’ll hear from Jason McAteer, who reflects on what it was like to go up against Roy Keane at his peak and the Manchester United legend’s peerless ability to read the game Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I caught up with Jon Dahl Tomasson in Rotterdam, the city where he enjoyed one of his greatest moments: scoring in the 2002 UEFA Cup final victory for Feyenoord against Borussia Dortmund.Jon’s next port of call was AC Milan, where the forward starred alongside greats such as Filippo Inzaghi, Alessandro Costacurta and Andrea Pirlo. There was tough competition for places, but legendary coach Carlo Ancelotti managed the club’s big egos, got under the players’ skin and inspired them with his passion.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Jimmy Bullard but it’s about Zinedine Zidane. Here’s Jimmy on how he convinced himself he WAS Zidane when he was playing in the Premier League - and how a movie that focuses on Zizou during one La Liga match moved him from one footballing genius to another. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This story comes from Neil Lennon and was filmed in front of a live audience. To start, here’s me asking him about a titanic series of matches between his Celtic team and the Barcelona side that had as its focal point Ronaldinho. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, our story comes from the great Kevin Bridges, a two-time guest on The Big Interview. Here, he’s going to tell you about his time as a player under Jose Mourinho, and the origins of his feud with Edwin van der Sar.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Gaizka Mendieta – who at Valencia was the most reliable penalty taker in the world. He’s going to tell you all of his secrets, so grab your pen and paper and listen up.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my Big Interview with Gus Poyet from season four.The former midfield maestro explains the indefatigable mindset of players from his native Uruguay which makes the nation overachieve, and culminated in the 1995 Copa America triumph which Gus starred in. That sparked a level of euphoria only football can bequeath, as did Gus’ incredible European Cup Winners’ Cup final win with Real Zaragoza against Arsenal that same year.Also in this extraordinary Big Interview: why playing in a Chelsea midfield alongside Roberto Di Matteo, Dan Petrescu and Dennis Wise meant he felt they could beat anyone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the start of his pro career at Barca B, Oriol Romeu was under the auspices of Luis Enrique. It was an incredibly demanding experience, but the current Spain manager made the midfielder see football completely differently, not least because of Oriol’s desire to improve.Also in part two, we chatted about Oriol’s published diaries. He found the writing experience fun, cathartic and self-improving – and he wanted to leave a legacy, a testimony.And there’s great content about the methods of Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl and why club team-mate James Ward-Prowse is the best free-kick taker in the world.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oriol Romeu is a midfielder with such game intelligence that he has adapted to playing a pivotal role under several Southampton managers. Key to this success is his ability to seek out critique in order to improve his game, even contacting Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez for pointers. Xavi said his famously consistent level of performance was rooted in his stubborn refusal to give the ball away.Also in part one, you’ll hear Oriol’s ultimate five-a-side team picked from the clubs he’s played for – Barca, Chelsea, Valencia, Stuttgart and Southampton. He barely hesitated in rhyming his selections off.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Which La Liga players should be on Manchester United's radar if they are planning a summer rebuild? And how many of them feature in the relegation scrap that has turned into Spain's most enthralling football attraction? This and more in the final installment of our Q & A show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaWelcome to part one of the April Q&A - yes, we know it's May but we wanted to preview this week's Champions League semi-finals, so we delayed it by a few days. So here's myself and Pete Jenson chewing over Liverpool 2 Villarreal 0 and Man City 4 Real Madrid 3 - and what we expect from this week's second legs.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my absorbing conversation with Bolo Zenden, there’s great stuff about Ronaldo (the Brazilian one), who blossomed alongside the Dutchman at PSV. Bolo adored and admired Ronaldo, and tells us how fancy dress failed to disguise the genius from recognition at a Dutch carnival. But it was agony losing to his pal’s Brazil in the semi-final of the 1998 World Cup.There’s also amazing content about working under and alongside Rafael Benítez, and winning the only major honour in Middlesbrough’s history.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During my time in Spain, I have seen the heights of Villarreal’s extraordinary rise from a scruffy port town team, playing in front of a couple of thousand fans in a ramshackle stadium. Here, from my writing this week for ESPNFC, is the special story of how their billionaire owner, Fernando Roig, has sustained that improbable transformation for a quarter of a century, and now stands on the edge of a new frontier: the Champions League final.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boudewijn ‘Bolo’ Zenden was a winger full of pace and precision who graced the jerseys of the Netherlands, Barcelona, Chelsea, Middlesbrough, Liverpool and his beloved PSV Eindhoven, where he now coaches.His childhood grounding in judo prepared him for epic duels with full-backs, and he’s as good a Big Interview guest as we’ve had at articulating the intricacy of his craft, how he lured opponents into his traps.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Here's an interesting one... this is my chat with Mick Clegg, the former power development coach at Manchester United. Mick is a fascinating character who tells tales of boxing with Roy Keane and Wes Brown, training the 'non-athlete' Paul Scholes and, of course, helping to shape a teenage Cristiano Ronaldo into the specimen he became. A fascinating tale of a unique guy.G** Mick has a brilliant book out, The Power and The Glory, expertly ghostwritten by Steve Bartram - You can buy it here ** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Xavi often cites Luuk de Jong as setting the standard of professionalism and application that he demands at Camp Nou. In part two of our conversation with Luuk, there’s amazing content about the Barcelona head coach’s methods, which include fun team games at training that seem to have little to do with football yet which sharpen you mentally and teach you positional and possessional play, and also bond the players.You’ll also hear great insights into the natural talents of Barca superstars Sergio Busquets, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Ousmane Dembele.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's story comes from Brian Laudrup. In 1992, he was a teammate of Stefan Effenberg at Bayern Munich and they were both moving to Fiorentina after Euro 92. They met in the final, but Effenberg's pre-match promise of comradery faded quickly after Denmark's upset victory over Germany. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There can only be one winner for the Ballon D'Or, but he has not done it alone. Here, from my writing for ESPNFC, is my argument that Karim Benzema must end the year in possession of his first Ballon d'Or - and my explanation that the key to his incredible level of performance has been his partnership with Vinicius jnr., a player Benzema himself has shaped into exactly the foil he needed.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To celebrate our sixth birthday, The Big Interview did something special: visited the Barcelona training ground to meet with their bright and brilliant Dutch striker Luuk de Jong.In part one, you’ll hear about how Luuk formed a relationship with Ever Banega at Sevilla which helped them clinch the 2020 Europa League. Sevilla’s record-breaking win was achieved with zero fans present, but the Covid bubble actually helped bond the players for victory.You’ll also hear about Luuk’s explanation of how the striker’s instinct kicks in in the heat of the moment, and his favourite footballing moment: PSV beating Ajax 3-0 to become Eredivisie champions in 2018.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Wolves defender Conor Coady sells us on the merits of his favourite formation – 3-4-3 – and his it has changed the way he watches football, not just plays it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Ander Herrer. I asked him to break down how he prepares himself for big games – here’s what he had to say, I think you’ll like it.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Michael Carrick, former Manchester United midfielder and now a key part of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s staff at Old Trafford. Here’s Michael transporting us – and himself – back to the penalty shoot out that ended the 2008 Champions League final.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Graeme Souness, once of Liverpool and Scotland. He’s going to tell you that even the most elite club game in world football, the European Cup final, can sometimes be a mismatch, when one team looks into the eyes of the other and sees fear. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today our story comes from Jonny Evans, an FA Cup winner with Leicester City in 2021. But he’s going to tell you about one of his earliest experiences of elite football, when, before he had kicked a ball for Manchester United, he found himself playing for Northern Ireland against Spain in a game that would change the course of football history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from the Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who is going to tell you about leadership and the power of second chances.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaHere is my latest column for ESPN FC on tonight's (Tuesday) Champions League quarter-final second leg between Bayern Munich and Villarreal. The Spanish side lead 1-0 from the first leg - and it could prove to be a tale of two keepers. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my Big Interview with Don Hutchison from season four.You’ll hear about Don’s meteoric rise from boys’ club to Hartlepool to Liverpool – where he formed a midfield three with the magnificent Jan Molby and Ronnie Whelan under manager Graeme Souness. Don speaks about the vision, courage and split-second decision making required to be a midfield fulcrum.There’s moving stuff, too: how Don’s winner for Scotland against England brought his tough miner father to tears. And how Don found Howard Kendall weeping after leading his beloved Everton to top division survival. There’s also a tale about another late, great manager – Walter Smith, who sprung the best bit of man-management ever on Don at Goodison Park. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today our story comes from John Collins, who moved from Celtic to Monaco in one of the first major Bosman transfers. He tells us how when he got there, he got to witness the making of a future superstar – Thierry Henry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Emile Heskey. He remembers the fun of the footballer’s daily work – training – here as part of the Leicester City team that won two League Cups under Martin O’Neill. It’s the part of the life that almost every ex pro tells you they miss the most. Here’s why.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Darren Fletcher, who’s going to tell you about the master of man management, Sir Alex Ferguson – the hairdryers, the calmness, and why he could never tell which of those was coming next.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from David Weir, former centre-back and captain of Scotland, Everton and Rangers, who’s going to tell you about his formative years playing college football in the United States – as a centre forward. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my fascinating Big Interview with Jaap Stam, we hear about how Johan Cruyff said that the centre-half could have defended for a team by himself.There’s great stuff about being part of Manchester United’s annus mirabilis of 1999. Also: playing with and against Filippo Inzaghi, rating Virgil van Dijk, working under Roberto Mancini… and just missing out on promotion to the Premier League as manager of Reading.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How has a player who was subjected - not entirely without reason - to some of the most brutal treatment I have seen from the supporters of FC Barcelona become a favourite of that same crowd, while remaining a possible candidate for a summer departure from this financially stricken club? This, from the column I write for ESPNFC, is the story of Ousmane Dembélé and the Camp Nou.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, you’ll hear Wolves defender Conor Coady break down the science of recovery at the club – and his respect for former boss Nuno Espirito Santo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jaap Stam was one of the most eloquent guests we have ever had on the Big Interview.The Dutch centre-half had a glittering career, not least at Manchester United. He is perplexed by the current state of the club, and compares it to the ultra-competitive environment he arrived at in 1998. Sir Alex Ferguson admitted letting Jaap go was his biggest regret. For Japp, the experience still hurts.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today you’ll hear from Darren Anderton on the career crossroads which saw him weighing up a move away from his beloved Spurs to Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United – and why he chose to remain in north London.Enjoy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Damien Duff, who talks about the unmissable rivalry between Jose Mourinho's Chelsea and Barcelona.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Craig Gordon and it’s his incredible account of the journey from an apparently career-ending injury, through two years of rehab, to a return to the Scotland team and the Champions League.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s Christian Fuchs, title winner with Leicester City, to tell you an incredible story from his early years as a teenage professional in Austria. Christian found himself sharing a dressing room with his childhood hero – who then set about bullying him relentlessly. Almost two decades later, Fuchs has a different perspective on what was happening Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaHere's my latest ESPNFC column on why Luis Enrique will be sticking with Spain instead of Manchester United.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaWelcome to part two of the March Q and A, where myself and Pete Jenson talk Bale, Cholo, Atleti-Man City, Ukraine and more. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Ander Herrer. You might know Ander as one of Europe’s Premier midfielders, but let me introduce you to Ander Herrer, super fan – of Real Zaragoza   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does Aubameyang's contract mean for the future of the Barcelona attack? Are Coutinho, Griezmann and Adama going to start pre-season in Catalonia? Will Xavi get to keep hold of their incredible young core? And how much of this is down to their returning president, Joan Laporta?It's the March Q&A and our listeners ask the BEST questions.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today you’re going to hear from Clive Allen, a guaranteed goalscorer through the 1980s with Spurs, Bordeaux, QPR and Palace to name a few. Here he’s talking about his England debut in a legendary international in Brazil, and the idiosyncrasies of the man who selected him, Bobby Robson.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Alan Smith, once of Arsenal and England but now of EA Sport’s FIFA franchise. That’s what he’s going to tell you about – how decades after he finished playing, his voice alone connects him with new generations of football fans.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's story comes from Brian Laudrup, who was preparing for a big season with Bayern Munich in the summer of 92, when he got the news that would change his life - Yugoslavia had been forced to withdraw from the upcoming European Championships and Denmark had been given a last-minute reprieve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Benni McCarthy, the former South Africa and Porto striker, who tells us about the first time his old manager in Portugal, Jose Mourinho, fell for Didier Drogba, then of Marseilles.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today you’ll hear from ex-Bayern Munich striker Alan McInally, who recalls the inimitable man-management style of legendary former boss Jupp Heynckes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s a one-two from Charlie Adam, who is going to break down two of his most outrageous goals. First, the free-kick that helped Blackpool to promotion to the Premier League. Then we move on to one he scored from the halfway line against Chelsea and Thibaut Courtois. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the years. This episode focuses on Andres Iniesta.Gordon Strachan waxes lyrical about watching Iniesta and says that he would never have believed that the standard of football the great Barcelona side he played in was possible.David Moyes reflects on a clash between Real Sociedad and that Barca side. David’s team won, but boy, could they not get near Andres.Someone else who knew how hard it was to dispossess Iniesta is former Swansea, Brighton and Blackpool winger Andrea Orlandi, who played alongside and against him while at Barcelona B. Andrea envied Andres his speed – he was quicker than people realise, with incredible acceleration; and he never gave the ball away.Finally, we hear how Alex McLeish nearly signed a young Iniesta on loan when manager of Rangers. The bid caused a real fuss at Barcelona, forcing their hand about whether to loan out or start playing the blossoming midfield genius. Sadly for Rangers fans, Barca chose the latter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From my writing for ESPNFC, here is my take on a weird and wonderful Clásico. Paired with Madrid's other embarassing losses this season - at home to Sheriff and to PSG in Paris - it could give president Florentino enough ammunition for a firing of a coach likely to end the season a champion (he has form here). But the list of culprits for this latest crime goes far beyond the Italian.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today you’ll hear from Dean Smith, the Aston Villa manager who masterminded one of the most memorable results in the club’s history when his team overcame defending champions Liverpool 7-2 in October 2020. Here’s how he did it.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's story comes from Alan Pardew, who tells us about the moments that can change the course of a career in football and of the hidden weapon in a manager's arsenal: one-to-one psychology. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s story comes from Alex McLeish and it’s taken from an interview we recorded in front of a live audience in Glasgow. He’s talking recruitment – making the most of a player his bosses at Birmingham wanted more than he did; and almost landing Andres Iniesta for Rangers.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I got lucky with the timing of my interview with Liverpool’s Andy Robertson. We sat down soon after Liverpool 4 Manchester City 3 in January 2018 – so I got to ask him about that Premier League classic and his one-man press of Bernardo Silva… and Kyle Walker… and John Stones … and Ederson … and Nicolas Otamendi. It was the moment the Kop fell for Robertson, and here’s how it was for him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my Big Interview with Ian Cathro, you’ll hear about the Dundonian’s enduring relationship with Nuno Espirito Santo, an extraordinary manager and leader of men.The pair worked together at Rio Ave, Valencia and Tottenham, but we chatted a lot about their time at Wolves, about how a culture of trust at every level of that club earned success and how, more than anyone, indomitable centre-half Conor Coady was key to the way the team operated.Also in part two: how to beat Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today you’ll hear from former Blackburn and Celtic striker Chris Sutton, who tells us that his days playing up front with Swedish legend Henrik Larsson were the richest of his career Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From my writing for ESPNFC, here is my pre-Clasico take on the blueprint FC Barcelona are following as they back Xavi to find a new version of the club’s famous ideology – including the three changes he prioritised when he returned to Camp Nou.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

That Ian Cathro is one of football’s most highly regarded coaches is all the more remarkable considering he never played the game at a high level. He is still aged just 35 and his success is down to determination, supreme confidence in his own abilities, risk taking and sheer talent.In part one of our fascinating Big Interview, you’ll hear how a young Ian managed to bag a visit to Porto – at incredibly short notice – where he took in a training session and had a ninety-minute conversation with then manager Andre Villas-Boas which changed his life.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's story comes from former England winger Chris Waddle, who will tell you how his style of play had the same effect on defenders from the Champions League... to the Sunday League. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaThibaut Courtois, the Real Madrid goalkeeper, is in the form of his life. He will need to produce heroics to take Los Blancos through tomorrow (Wednesday) night in the Bernabeu against Paris Saint Germain, who have a 1-0 lead from the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.This is the audio version of my ESPN column. EnjoyG   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my Big Interview with Ryan Fraser from season four.When I caught up with my fellow Aberdonian, life was a beach under Eddie Howe at Bournemouth. Ryan has since moved on to Newcastle United, and perhaps it was fated that Eddie has ended up at St James’ Park, too. We heard how Eddie made his charges better players – and men, and how team-bonding incorporated everything from golf to paddle boarding.Ryan is an incredibly versatile player and is able to analyse the beautiful game with great clarity. He told us about some of his best performances in a Cherries jersey, including defensive heroics against Eden Hazard and the towering Peter Crouch.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chapi Ferrer tells us how Ronald Koeman was the biggest personality in Barcelona’s ‘Dream Team’, a mentally tough character who was Johan Cruyff’s extension on the pitch. Also in part two, you’ll hear about the full-back’s heartbreak when he was let go by his beloved Barca, but how success at Chelsea beckoned. And there’s great stuff about Barca Legends coach Chapi’s philosophy and ambitions.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Orgasmic football. Sporting Viagra. Against Athletic, Barcelona – and Pedri in particular – provided that special magic that can get a stadium on its feet and make memories that last as long as we do.Here in a new weekly feature on The Big Interview is an audio version of the column I write regularly for ESPN FC. This one is my reaction to a game that made Camp Nou believe in the Xavi rebuild and in the gem at its centre – a 19-year-old we will be talking about for a long time to come.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chapi Ferrer was the classy right-back for Johan Cruyff’s ‘Dream Team’ who won Barcelona’s first European Cup in 1992. It was a miracle that Chapi played that famous night – let alone that he efficiently marked Sampdoria legend Roberto Mancini – because he had recently suffered torn cruciate ligaments and gastroenteritis. But the moment he stepped onto the Wembley turf he felt strong and focussed, and history awaited. To cap it off, a few weeks later Chapi won Olympic gold in his beloved Nou Camp.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!This is the second part of February's Q&A where we discuss Atleti and Diego Simeone, the rise of Betis, Messi's 'average' penalty record and the best away-day in Spanish football. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part one of this month's Q & A show is all about Barcelona - how is Xavi's principled project being reshaped by the reality of the situation at Camp Nou? Which of his signings have surprised Graham and Pete? What are their chances of a top-four finish or a pathway to the final of the Europa League?All this and a little look back at the latest evidence that Kylian Mbappé is a very, very good footballer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the years. This episode focuses on David Beckham.When player-assistant at Preston, David Moyes initially didn’t think the young Beckham was strong enough to take on a loan deal from Manchester United. But he was soon filled with admiration for the midfielder’s sheer will to succeed.Sven-Göran Eriksson speaks about the charismatic presence of Beckham when he steps into a room. When he was the Leicester City boss, the Swede asked the superstar to finish his career in the East Midlands – but Victoria soon put the kybosh on that idea!When describing the 1999 Champions League final between Manchester United and Bayern Munich, Jamie Carragher argues that Becks’ display that famous night – and his abilities in general – are underrated.Lastly, former president of Real Madrid, Ramon Calderon, gushes with praise for Becks. During his last season in Spain, instead of sulking and biding his time until his move to LA Galaxy, he gave everything for Real, who won the title by a whisker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my Big Interview with James Milner from season four.You’ll hear about James witnessing great European nights at Leeds from his perspective as a ball boy, and playing in great European nights with Liverpool. Plus, there’s super stuff about the Anfield midfield maestro’s fantastic charitable foundation.When I spoke with James, his pain from the 2018 Champions League final defeat by Real Madrid was still palpable, but he vowed to channel it so that he could put things right. Little did he know then that he wouldn’t have long to wait. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the second part of the January Q & A show we cover Anthony Martial's loan to Sevilla and his new club's title challenge. Listen out for strong views on Diego Carlos and Erling Haaland.Enjoy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's all about FC Barcelona in the first part of the January Q & A show. What does the move for Adama Traore say about Barcelona? What should they do about Dembele and De Jong? Will the current and former boards remain at war while the football team continues to struggle? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my engrossing chat with Jan Age Fjortoft we hear about how the Norwegian lost three Austrian Cup finals when playing for Rapid Vienna. There’s great stuff about scoring during the last minute of the 1998-99 season to keep Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga. And we speak about Norway’s attacking geniuses Martin Odegaard and especially Erling Haaland, potentially the best striker in the world.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You might remember Jan Age Fjortoft from the 1990s as a formidable striker for the likes of Swindon, Middlesbrough and Sheffield United, but nowadays this erudite man grabs the likes of Jose Mourinho, Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp for post-match television interviews.The Norwegian gives us fascinating insights into the art of interviewing, telling us how he draws players and coaches away from the tired cliches into revealing their vulnerabilities, their true self.Also in part one: Doing battle with Roy Keane.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my second Big Interview with Kevin Bridges from season four.We hear about Celtic fan Kevin’s adoration for Henrik Larsson, what it felt like to get his phone number and how he can’t rewatch the 2003 UEFA Cup Final because of Henke’s despair at winning just a runners-up medal.As well as being one of the world’s funniest guys, Kevin is a genuine football connoisseur and there’s great stuff about his love for La Liga. His eyes lit up when I mentioned Ronaldo; no, not Cristiano, but the original and in some people’s eyes best, Brazilian, Ronaldo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my fascinating conversation with Mark Hateley, we hear how his success with Portsmouth and England led to a transfer to the mighty AC Milan. Coach Nils Liedholm was an incredible influence as Mark improved and scored a famous winner in the first victory over Inter in six years – after which he was a hit with the Ultras forevermore.Graeme Souness signed Mark for Rangers where after a slow start a glittering era awaited, especially once he had bulked up and formed his irresistible partnership with the prolific Ally McCoist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here comes a peculiar Clasico - Real Madrid v Barcelona ... in Saudi Arabia.Here's what I think about the circumstances around the Supercopa clash and then, as I wrote for ESPNFC, a little something about the connections between the two men in charge, and the power balance between these two titanic rivals. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mark Hateley’s new autobiography Hitting The Mark brilliantly defines the extraordinary career of a truly great British centre-forward.In part one of an in-depth, fascinating Big Interview, Mark tells us how trying to better his late father Tony – himself a successful striker – was his major motivation as he relentlessly drove himself to improve.His father was furious that Mark chose a move from Coventry down a division to Portsmouth. But the gamble paid off with 24 goals in his first season at Pompey, and he also enjoyed success with England including a winning goal against Brazil in the Maracana. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the years. This episode focuses on Pep Guardiola.Rio Ferdinand reflects on Manchester United’s two Champions League final defeats to Pep’s Barcelona and is bighearted enough to wax lyrical about Pep’s genius. He is gutted that he was not brought in to manage at Old Trafford. Germany midfielder Ilkay Gundogan loves playing for Guardiola at Manchester City. He’s not an easy man all the time, but ultimately you know that he has got your back, that he adheres to an almost familial sense of personal loyalty.Namesake and Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders considers Guardiola as one of the best coaches ever, because he is a master at drilling teams to their maximum potential in training, but does so while never impeding the individual class of great players.When Guardiola took over at Barcelona, experienced Catalan coach Domènec Torrent was one of his trusted lieutenants. They endured a sticky start but the golden Barca era soon dawned, and Domènec gives us engrossing insights into what it was like behind the scenes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to part two of our annual Oscars show, where our listeners - as well as Graham and Pete - decide who wins categories including lifetime achievement and best original song.It's the only review of 2021 that comes with red carpet, evening wear and tapas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our annual Oscars show, where our listeners - as well as Graham and Pete - decide who wins categories including best performer in a lead role and best director (of football). It's the only review of 2021 that comes with red carpet, evening wear and tapas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scot Gemmill is currently a very successful manager of the Scotland under-21 team. In part two of this absorbing Big Interview, you’ll hear how he hadn’t planned a transition from playing to coaching, and got there through his own initiative, effort and a little slice of luck. He expanded his coaching brain by observing how it was done at Barcelona, Espanyol… and Paisley. And we hear how Scot nurtured Scotland’s most brilliant young talent, Billy Gilmour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Being the son of Scotland and Nottingham Forest legend Archie was normality for Scot Gemmill when growing up, but having Brian Clough critiquing your performance for a Sunday youth side was downright surreal in anyone’s book. Despite his initial self-doubt, Gemmill jnr. went on to play for Cloughie at Forest and nowadays he realises the spell the great man cast on him when he coaches footballers. He learned to play like you mean it, like you are competing in the last game you will ever play. Also in part one: indie gigs and New York, New York. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the years. This episode focuses on Paul Scholes.Michael Carrick describes how when he arrived at Manchester United he was slated for passing to midfield colleague Paul too often – but why wouldn’t you utilise the talents of one of England’s greatest-ever players?Another former Old Trafford team-mate, Owen Hargreaves, rated Scholesy so highly – not least his game intelligence – that he places him in the pantheon of true footballing greats.Darren Fletcher says that Paul was technically one of the best players of all time, so much so that the Scotsman had to redefine his own role as a midfielder at Man United.Quinton Fortune says it was sheer joy playing with Scholes, who he believes taught World Cup winner Paul Pogba everything he knows. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my extraordinary conversation with Graeme Le Saux, we hear about dressing-room bigotry and bullying, and the seismic culture change that needs to occur at a club in order to smash the conspiracy of fearful silence that sustains it.If Graeme felt like an outsider at Chelsea, at Blackburn Rovers he was part of a band of brothers whose incredible work-ethic and self-belief narrowly won them the league against the mighty Manchester United in 1995. It was Graeme’s finest hour, and he lauds the leadership of Kenny Dalglish and his assistant Ray Harford.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Here's my latest column for ESPN, for your listening pleasure. With four of Spain’s teams in danger of getting knocked out of the Champions League there's lots for Simeone, Emery and Lopetegui to learn from Rayo Vallecano and Iraola. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Graeme Le Saux spent numerous family holidays in Mallorca, but he couldn’t have guessed that one day he would become a non-executive director at the island’s – now La Liga – football club. Real got promoted after a thrilling play-off with Deportivo and now the challenge is to keep improving while staying in the top flight.Graeme was an elegant left-back with Chelsea, Blackburn and Southampton, and he tells us about his toughest opponents, offering insight into how the likes of Brian Laudrup, Chris Waddle and a young Cristiano Ronaldo bedazzled and befuddled. Graeme just loved the challenge.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Thierry Henry from season four.You’ll hear about how Barcelona’s talented players adapted to the visionary Pep Guardiola’s methods. The 2009 6-2 victory at the Bernabéu – in which Thierry scored a double and then went off injured –felt like the moment things fully clicked, and the Frenchman recovered in time to star in the Champions League final against Manchester United. Barcelona knew they would win – they could see the defeat in the United players’ eyes, and not even Sir Alex Ferguson had a response.There’s also chat about playing with Lionel Messi, whose talent is not of this planet.Brilliant stuff.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here comes part two of the November Q & A, in which Graham and Pete mourn Levante's demise, look at interim managers from recent Spanish history and examine the tea leaves of Xavi's first weeks in charge of Barcelona. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaWelcome to this month's Q and A. Here myself and Pete Jenson talk Vinicius Jnr, the rise of La Real, Rayo Vallecano and who might win tonight's Ballon d'Or.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watching Real Madrid - and in particular how their coach, Carlo Ancelotti, handles his veteran midfield trio of Casemiro, Modric and Kroos - I saw one side of a theological divide. Call it hawks versus doves; Robin Williams versus the Marx Brothers; systems versus players.Here is why I think the Madrid ideology cannot navigate a critical run of games ahead, and why it all means Zinedine Zidane was never the guy Manchester United need right now.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For such an intelligent football man, you might be surprised to learn how Brad Friedel was once in the grip of crippling superstitions. Oddly, when he crossed the white line, the nerves disappeared.Also in part two, you’ll hear about the one man Brad feared facing most of all: Alan Shearer. And there’s great stuff about how goalkeepers must never let their inner feelings show on the field of play.Thanks, Brad. I could have chatted all day.Graham.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I'm presenting to you an episode of Between The Lines, a podcast that tells the stories behind great sports writing, produced by Martin and Neil at BackPage, my producers and the publishers of the books I wrote on Barcelona under Pep Guardiola and the Spain team that won a hat-trick of tournaments. In this episode, Neil and Martin talk to Mark Palmer, the translator of The Immortals, Arrigo Sacchi’s memoir of Milan’s 1988-89 season, which ended with the first of two back-to-back European Cup triumphs for the great team of Baresi, Maldini, Rijkaard, Gullit and Van Basten.The Immortals brings to life the training diaries of Sacchi and captures in time one of the greatest club teams in football history.There are lots more stories on Between The Lines - take your pick hereBuy The Immortals here.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brad Friedel fell in love with English football long before he arrived on UK shores to grace the No.1 jerseys of Liverpool, Blackburn, Villa and Spurs. A trip to Wembley during a childhood family tour of Europe gave him the bug.He was hardened by his Ohio upbringing, which set him in good stead for coping with the glorious craziness of Galatasaray.This is an absolute corker of a Big Interview.GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's my latest for ESPNFC - on Xavi's first game in charge of his beloved Barcelona, against their city rivals, Espanyol. The two teams are level on points, which means Espanyol have a sniff of finishing ahead of their neigbours for the first time since World War Two concluded. And they have, in Vicente Moreno, a coach who, like Xavi, has a very high ceiling in terms of what he might achieve.Not the kind of opening act Xavi would have selected. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the years. This episode focuses on Luka Modric.Former Tottenham colleague Robbie Keane admired the unassuming Luka’s particular courage: his willingness to take the ball under any circumstances.I interviewed John McGinn ahead of Euro 2020, and when asked who was the forthcoming opponent he would most like to swap shirts with, Scotland’s midfield maestro chose the classy Croat.Slaven Bilic espouses the virtues of having an independent Croatian football league to help develop younger players – but he says Modric would have made it anyway.Lastly, Rafael van der Vaart talks about joining the fantastic, attacking Spurs side Harry Redknapp had assembled in 2010, for which Luka was the midfield fulcrum. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Spain prepare for a World Cup duel with Sweden, here are my thoughts on a player who is absent from the mission: the evergreen Iago Aspas, a player who continues to deliver in the biggest games in La Liga.  This is the audio version of the column I write every week at ESPNFC. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olivier Giroud believes he was destined to play for Arsenal and current club AC Milan because he followed the fortunes of both as a kid.Also in part two, we hear about Olivier’s brother Romain who was a real talent but who didn’t make it in the professional game. And, of course, there’s France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, delivered, Olivier says, by team spirit. Did you know that N’Golo Kanté really does bend the rules at cards, and that Olivier and Hugo Lloris celebrated in a Moscow duck pond?Graham.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olivier Giroud is a World Cup winner whose will to succeed was undergirded by his deep religious faith; it’s no coincidence that his brilliant new autobiography is called Always Believe.In part one of our conversation you’ll hear about the euphoria that broke out after Olivier set up the winning goal against Lille in 2012 which all but clinched Montpellier’s only top-flight title. The big striker is a forgiving fellow, but it was nice to prove one doubter in particular wrong.And there’s chat about taking on Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk when Olivier was at Arsenal and Chelsea. These were physical battles, but there was always mutual respect.Graham.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Owen Hargreaves from season four.As a youngster at Bayern Munich, Stefan Effenberg would kick Owen in training, but it toughened him, taught him to be ultra-competitive. When he went up against the likes of Luis Figo at Real Madrid in the 2001 Champions League semi-final, he soon felt worthy of the task. Owen played in the final in Milan where Bayern beat Valencia on penalties. Owen did well in shootouts with clubs – netting in Manchester United’s shootout win over Chelsea in the Champions League 2008 final, but not so well in them with England.There’s also great stuff about the legendary Paul Scholes, why England’s golden generation didn’t deliver and why Owen was so desperate to play for Sir Alex Ferguson, the ultimate competitor.Brilliant stuff.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here is my column for ESPNFC on the sacking, last night, of Ronald Koeman, by FC Barcelona, following a giant-killing defeat at the hands of Rayo Vallecano, the latest in a series of results that made this outcome automatic.All of the information I have - some of which you'll hear here - tell me Xavi is the man to replace him, returning to the club with whom he won it all in an historic career. But nothing is simple at Camp Nou these days.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paolo Sousa played through the pain barrier for his entire career, but it didn’t stop him winning back-to-back Champions Leagues at Marcello Lippi’s Juventus and then Ottmar Hitzfeld’s Borussia Dortmund. He had come to feel unwanted at Juve, and it was surely karma that it was the Italian club that Borussia defeated in the 1997 final.Also in part two: How to manage a genius like Poland’s Robert Lewandowski.You’ll love this.Graham.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaWith the sad news of Walter Smith's passing, I felt moved to record this appreciation. BestGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paulo Sousa was one of the most elegant midfielders of his generation. The Poland head coach is also one of the beautiful game’s deepest thinkers.In part one of our chat, you’ll hear about how he would visualise techniques and game scenarios before playing. Nobody told him to do this – it was an instinctive process, and one that has now been formally introduced to the coaching curriculum.Truly fascinating stuff.Graham.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Hope you enjoyed yesterday's Clasico, which finished Barcelona 1 Real Madrid 2. Myself and Pete Jenson answers your questions covering Alaba's goal, Depay, Modric, Ansu, Koeman's future and whether it is time to make the call to Xavi Hernandez.Enjoy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's part two of this month's Q&A, with a focus on the upcoming Clasico. What does the rest of Spanish football make of the global fascination with Barcelona and Real Madrid? And how will a faltering Barcelona cope with Vinicius as the Real Madrid forward develops game-by-game into a world-class talent? Pete Jenson and Graham Hunter have the answers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here are Graham, Pete Jenson and our beloved socios, asking and answering all around this coming Sunday's Clasico - in this first part, we connect the Champions League performances of Barcelona and Real Madrid to the possible outcome of the weekend's La Liga meeting. And the focus falls on two of the hottest properties in Spain: Ansu Fati, whose signature is still fresh on a new Barcelona contract, and Vinicius Jnr, who shone in Madrid's hugely impressive win in Ukraine.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Alan Smith from season four.Alan was part of an Arsenal side which won England’s top division twice, and he won the golden boot twice, but a crisis of confidence blighted the end of his career, even when he scored the winner against Parma in the 1994 European Cup Winners’ Cup Final.The Gunners’ success was due to the camaraderie and chemistry instilled by George Graham, and Alan offers us brilliant insights into the approach of that managerial legend. The highpoint was winning the league title in 1989 at Anfield with the last kick of the ball – a moment Alan considers English club football’s most iconic. You will love this fascinating Big Interview.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the years. This episode focuses on Jurgen Klopp.Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders tells us how Jurgen and his coaches instil the players’ inner voice in training. Jurgen’s charges can adapt to personnel changes by sticking to a collective philosophy which is drilled into the squad.Jamie Carragher describes Liverpool’s amazing 4-0 thrashing of Barcelona in the 2019 Champions League semi-final at Anfield. The Reds trailed 3-0 from first leg, but Jamie contends that Jurgen made his players believe that they could achieve anything.We caught up with Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson in early 2018, just after he had played a vital part in an awesome 4-3 victory over Manchester City. Andy tells us what it’s like to play for the legend Klopp, and why he isn’t scared to take a creative risk on the field.Brilliant stuff.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my fascinating conversation with Michael Laudrup, we continue talking about Swansea’s 2013 League Cup triumph. They won the final against Bradford 5-0 but Michael never liked humiliating teams or individuals.We hear about a masterclass dealt out in Naples by one Diego Armando Maradona when Michael was playing for Juventus. Michael also explains his philosophy of a happy retirement and why he thinks we are asking too much of our modern footballers.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a player and a manager, Michael Laudrup was pure footballing nobility, so much so that they made him a knight of the Danish realm.Michael is one of that rare species who can articulate his playing genius. Crucial to his development was playing under Johan Cruyff at Barcelona, who was a genius at conveying his message in simple terms.There’s great stuff about how the Danish national team transitioned from Corinthian purity to become perennial overachievers. And about how trophies won as a manager – not least Swansea’s 2013 League Cup triumph – felt better than those won as a player.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Christian Fuchs from season four.Back then, Christian was still at Leicester, where he had won the Premier League against all the odds. Nigel Pearson signed him for the Foxes from Schalke – and was then promptly sacked. But the left-back fitted in with Claudio Ranieri’s plans. Ranieri made every player feel special, which was key to their amazing success. Christian describes watching Tottenham drawing with Chelsea – which clinched the title for Leicester – as an incredibly exhausting experience. He had never quite believed that they would become champions.You’ll also hear about playing alongside the great Raul at Schalke, how Mattersburg captain Dietmar Kuhbauer toughened a young Christian up, and how a loan spell at Mainz under coaching genius Thomas Tuchel was a seminal experience.Enjoy,Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my fascinating interview with Aberdeen boss Stephen Glass, we hear about how everyone goes on about ‘pressing’, but no side can truly pull it off for ninety minutes.You’ll get the skinny on some of the great coaches Stephen has worked under or alongside: Roy Aitken at Aberdeen, Ruud Gullit at Newcastle, Gianluca Vialli at Watford, Tony Mowbray at Hibernian, Tata Martino at Atlanta. Stephen has hired the redoubtable Scott Brown as player-coach, and promises Dons fans will come to love the man they used to hate.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Glass might have been brought up as a Dundee United fan, but he gave everything as a player and gives everything as a manager to my beloved Aberdeen. Once, he even helped relegate United while wearing a red jersey.Stephen learned his trade from coaches who had played during the Dandies’ golden age, but boy, it was a tough apprenticeship. Such were his talents that when at Newcastle, he was compared with Magpies legend Tony Green.Subscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my riveting Big Interview with Aston Villa manager Dean Smith we hear about how he establishes the right culture by leading by example. He thrives on developing players, and consistency is his byword. All of this laid the groundwork for the incredible 7-2 destruction of then Premier League champions Liverpool in October 2020.Thanks, Dean. That was special.GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dean Smith is a dyed-in-the-wool fan living the dream. As a youngster, the Aston Villa manager watched his club’s glory days from the Holte End when the European Cup was clinched and talents like Brian Little, Gary Shaw, Gordon ‘Sid’ Cowans, Andy Gray and Didier Six plied their trade. But the man he has just sold for £100million – Jack Grealish – rivals them all.Enjoy.GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the years. This episode focuses on Jose Mourinho.Benni McCarthy’s tough time at Celta Vigo ended when Jose brought him to Porto. Benni saw the Portuguese as a father figure, and would have run through a brick wall for him. He repaid Mourinho by helping Porto win the Champions League. A mainstay of that side was Ricardo Carvalho, and Benni says Jose is the only boss the leftfield defender could have thrived under.Line of Duty star Martin Compston was struck by Mourinho’s will to win even in a charity match. Despite being led astray for a night on the tiles by pal Greg McHugh, he absolutely loved his brief spell playing under the managerial legend.Robert Huth remembers that when Mourinho arrived at Chelsea, he took training sessions to a new level. The Special One introduced an intensity and an attention to detail that fired the players’ imaginations.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Madrid miss out on Mbappe... for now. Valencia look sharp, three Liga talents head for the Premier League and Rayo Vallecano reboot!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was quite a transfer window in La Liga, but when we asked our socios for questions, there was one move they all wanted to know more about. Here is Graham and Pete Jenson with a 360-degree look at the deal that took Antoine Griezmann back from Barcelona to Atletico Madrid. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my absorbing conversation with Vinny Samways, we speak about the midfielder’s earlier days at his beloved Tottenham, not least his time spent under manager and club legend Ossie Ardiles, who Vinny considered to be ahead of his time. Vinny was the kind of player Ossie wanted the play to flow through, his ‘pivote’. There was even a call-up for Ossie’s testimonial match, when a teenage Vinny starred alongside a certain Diego Armando Maradona. An unforgettable experience.We also cover two memorable giant-killing thrashings which Vinny was on the right side of, one against Real Madrid when at Las Palmas, and one against Barcelona when he was at Sevilla.You'll love this Big InterviewSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vinny Samways is a man I admire. At the age of 28, the classy midfielder gave up the English top flight and stepped into the unknown. He signed for Canary Islands club Las Palmas, then in Spain’s second tier. It was a struggle to adapt at first, not least because of the number of yellow and red cards Vinny received, but in his fourth season there his perseverance paid off when he was part of a promotion-winning side. It felt like he had repaid the islanders for all the warmth and support they had given him.EnjoyGrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the years. This episode focuses on Roy Keane.Darren Fletcher believes that Roy was underrated in terms of his passing and ball control simply because he played alongside the magnificent Paul Scholes.Quinton Fortune tells us about receiving a kick from Roy in training for trying something he wouldn’t do during a match. The intensely competitive sessions meant that when Saturday came, United felt they could take on anyone.Kevin Kilbane reflects on the notorious Saipan incident during the 2002 World Cup. Had Roy stayed on board, Kev reckons Ireland could have gone all the way to the final.Jason McAteer states that Roy’s ability to read the game was second to none, and speaks about how he came round to liking and admiring the man.As kids, Jonny Evans and Alex Bruce both idolised Roy and ended up playing under him at Sunderland and Ipswich respectively. They say you should never meet your heroes, but Roy made a positive impression on both players.Enjoy possibly the best Big Interview Icon so far.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Messi gone and both Barcelona and Madrid reassessing their long-term finances, our socios ask Graham and Pete Jenson about the teams most likely to make a title challenge this season Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the first part of our monthly Q & A show. Graham and Pete Jenson answer questions on life after Messi for both Barcelona and La Liga. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rafael da Silva’s most memorable Sir Alex Ferguson moment was just after Manchester United had lost the Premier League title on goal difference to their city rivals in 2012. Fergie told the players to remember how the loss felt, and indeed United came back to win the league the next season. Sir Alex understood Rafa and got inside his head.Also in part two, there’s chat about scoring at Anfield – Rafa’s favourite goal, playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and against Lionel Messi, and how Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s United can win the title this season. And you will hear what it’s like to come up against Kylian Mbappé, who accelerates like a Ferrari and has more trickery than a magician.EnjoyGrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brazil has an uncanny habit of producing truly special right-backs, and Rafael da Silva fits that classification. In 2007, he signed for Manchester United on the same day as his twin Fábio, and the brothers have now released a joint-memoir, The Sunshine Kids.In part one of this engaging Big Interview, Rafa suggests that Ronaldinho represents the spirit of Brazilian football more than Neymar. Ronaldinho had everything: strength and unbelievable ability, but most of all he made people happy.Rafa also reflects on the London 2012 Olympics, a difficult experience, but one which taught him not be afraid of taking risks.EnjoyGrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You know the headline: Leo Messi, maybe the greatest footballer to ever take the field, will leave Barcelona, the only club he has ever played for. Here is my take - and your questions - on how we got here, what is real and what is spin, and what may lie ahead for Messi and for FC Barcelona, whose financial crisis is ground zero for this monumental move.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our last Euro 2020 episode Graham and Pete take on questions about England's plan for Qatar and beyond; who starts next winter's World Cup as favourites and whether the laissez-faire refereeing of the Euros can unlock a faster kind of football.Thanks for all your support this season and especially during these daily Euro shows. We're taking a short break before the new season, when we will have more new interviews for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ciao ragazzi, and welcome to the first part of the Q&A, as we bring our Euro 2020 series to a close. Here, Graham and Pete Jenson discuss: the under-sung stars of the tournament; the errors made by England's management team; and the centurions at the heart of defence for the new champions of Europe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded late, right after it went down, and with more than a little frustration in my voice. Forza Italia, the new champions of Europe, but where was the new England we had grown so fond of watching? Undone by slow decision-making on the touchline and a tired talisman on the pitch. Here's my on-the-whistle take on the final.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaThe big day is here... and we dived into the mailbag to answers all your queries on England v Italy. We talk Chiesa, Kane, Foden, Saka, Chiellini and much more.Enjoy!G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaThe last time England met Italy at a major tournament was in the first group game of the 2014 Brazil World Cup. Italy won 2-1 that day, thanks to goals from Balotelli and Marchisio.One of our Socios posed a challenge: Which player from the England and Italy teams from 2014 would make the current teams?Never one to shirk a challenge, this is my response...EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!England have reached their first major final since 1966. Here's my thoughts on a fantastic game at Wembley, when a young England team came of age.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Wow.... what a semi-final. This was recorded in the early hours of this morning, after I'd gathered my thoughts on events at Wembley last night. It was a privilege to be there.What. A. Night. Olmo, Pedri, Jorginho, Chiellini... just incredible.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!This is it... the day of the Euro 2020 Italy-Spain semi-final - and I'm literally on my way to Wembley.Jump in my London Cab and listen to some of my semi-final experiences covering La Roja ... and more thoughts on tonight's match. Plus, my Bet365 Player of the Day.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!I'm in London ahead of tomorrow night's Italy-Spain Euro 2020 semi-final. Listen up for how La Roja vanquished a century-old Italian curse at Euro 2008. We also dip into the mailbag to answers questions on how Spain can find a way past Roberto Mancini's hugely impressive Italy.And there's also my Bet365 Player of the Day!Enjoy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's what I think about Gareth Southgate's career-defining moments on and off the pitch, including his response to racists and his management of a talent-packed squad; which players might make big moves after the tournament; why we haven't seen much of Thiago so far. And a loan move happens as we are recording! Wolves fans, be excited.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nerves shredded, I send you this from the post-apocalyptic aftermath of Spain's quarter-final with Switzerland. Don't let the outcome fool you, it was Switzerland's gameplan, and not Spain's that prevailed. But thanks to Unai Simon, we're on our way to Wembley.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leo Messi's transition into free agency was a big story yesterday, so here's why I think he's probably not going, but he won't stay until he shapes his final years at FC Barcelona as much as he can while in a position of maximum leverage. Then we talk Spain v Switzerland and Italy v Belgium, and why Sergio Busquets has proved to be so influential for La Roja.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!We’ve dipped into The Big Interview archive to serve you up a nice little slice of Sven-Goran Eriksson, in which he reflects on the relationship between Roberto Mancini and Gianluca Vialli at Sampdoria. He tells us not only how the Goal Twins ran the dressing room and effectively the whole club, but also how Mancini the artist could turn into a raging bull.The two men are reunited in the Italy dugout for Euro 2020 and will attempt to negotiate the Azzurri's passage to the semi-final against Belgium tomorrow evening. Listen out for my Bet365 Player of the Day after we hear from Eriksson.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A blessed day of rest, so a good chance to get through some of your questions. Including: which of the lesser-known players would I go for if I was FINALLY in charge of a major European club? Who are the equivalents of Rio, Wrighty and Ally on Spanish television's coverage? And which England player has unlocked Harry Kane's mojo?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another late-night episode recorded right after Spain's game (with an added bonus recorded after France were knocked out by Switzerland - stick around at the end!)I loved watching Spain v Croatia - I hope you did too. It was about explosive football, some weird moments and above all, character. Watch out. Here come Spain.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Belgium have just knocked out Portugal here in Seville in a game that built to a thrilling finale. I recorded this as soon as I left the stadium, just after speaking to Thibaut Courtois - and that was a conversation that really got me thinking. So this is a story about a text I sent a long time ago, and a moment of audacity that helped to win the game. This one's a little different, I hope you like it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm in Seville tonight for Belgium v Portugal - not just the tie of the round but potentially the tie of the tournament. Here I'll tell you about what I learned from interviews with Roberto Martinez and Jan Vertonghen and we'll revisit an old Big Interview - with Martinez's right-hand man, Shaun Maloney.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Forgive the croak in my voice - this was recorded at the end of a very long day and night, before Spain left Seville ... destination - Copenhagen. In their destruction of a disappointing Slovakia team, Spain gave us a reminder of what they can do when everything clicks and when the opposition's guard drops. They have a history of these blowout wins in recent years. Does that make them contenders? I still have more than a few doubts about that. But for now, let's enjoy the good stuff.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We just finished recording this - my view on Scotland's exit last night and then an examination of what is at stake in the game I'll be leaving for shortly - Spain v Slovakia - and the decisions facing Luis Enrique.Socios, thanks for sending your questions in - please keep asking them, I'll respond to as many as I can on these daily podcasts.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's my look ahead to the final round of games in Group D: Scotland v Croatia and Czech Republic v England.With the news that  Billy Gilmour is isolating after a positive Covid test, will Scotland find yet another way to break our hearts? I don't think so.And can England find the courage to unleash Jack Grealish on the Euros?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!This was recorded late last night, following Spain's disappointing 1-1 draw with Poland in Seville in their second group game of Euro 2020. The result leaves them with just two points from their first two games - and sees their Group E qualification hopes resting on Wednesday's meeting with Slovakia. Hope you enjoyLove yaG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's my take on a new-look Scotland and what Steve Clarke achieved with a bang-on team selection and a game plan to starve Harry Kane of service.Also, news from the Spain camp on game day for them plus my Player of the Day comes from the tea-time kick off, Germany v Portugal.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!What a Euros so far eh?This is my latest bulletin from inside the Spain camp - ahead of tomorrow night's second group match v Poland - but listen out for reflections on some other games and teams that have set my pulse racing... from Belgium's gigantic performance v Denmark to Italy's fizzing 3-0 win over Denmark. And a wee bit of Scottish content, too!Enjoy!G Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tomorrow, England play oldest rivals Scotland at Wembley in their European Championships group game. We dug into the Big Interview archives and unearthed the recollections of three men who engaged in two famous Euros encounters between the Auld Enemies at the old Wembley in the 1990s.One of Darren Anderton’s career highs occurred in June 1996 when England defeated the Scots 2-0. He set up Paul Gascoigne for his memorable goal with a superb pass. Darren tells us about the incredible feeling of that summer in England.For a Scottish perspective, we first hear from Gary McAllister, who featured in the ’96 match’s pivotal moment. With the score at 1-0, David Seaman saved Gary’s penalty. Moments later, Darren picked out Gazza. Sheer agony.Three years later, Scotland reclaimed pride in the second leg of a European Championships play-off qualifier. They trailed 2-0 from the Hampden match and would ultimately go out, but not without bloodying English noses with a magnificent 1-0 Wembley victory. The scorer and star of the show was Don Hutchison, and we hear from him last.Scotland fans and England fans, whet your appetite with this special preview episode of the Big Interview.GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

24 hours later, I still can't figure out why Luis Enrique didn't go with Gerard Moreno earlier in their frustrating but not entirely unloveable 0-0 draw with Sweden. I traveled five hours up through Spain to see him back on the training pitch. Plus, I wonder if Gareth Bale can leave his mark on one more tournament for Wales. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I recorded this as soon as my work was done last night. It's my first reaction to the first game in Spain's Euros, an intriguing and dramatic draw.This was a lop-sided, tension-filled, Hitchockian classic for Spain watchers. And despite their failure to score, they looked pretty damn good to me.We want your questions for these daily shows, so if there's anything you've seen you want me to talk about, anything you want to know - ask!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's all the latest from the Spain camp on the morning of their opener against Sweden - I finally got to see the players after their Covid-enforced isolation. And I also got to watch England start their Euros with a win - there was a lot to like. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Spain's Covid crisis appears to ease, the coach Luis Enrique feels the heat from the nation's media while he mulls his opening team selection. Meanwhile, what will England's Gareth Southgate do in the same spot? And how close to a move to Barcelona is the Netherlands' main man, Memphis Depay?. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaWelcome to another of our daily Euro 2020 shows. Ahead of Monday's Spain v Sweden game in Seville, I spoke to legendary Swedish defender Jocky Bjorklund about his country's chances of not only beating Spain but emulating Sweden's quarter-final apperance at Euro 2004.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Welcome to another of our daily Euro 2020 shows. Here's my despatch from Madrid, where the Spanish national team are currently in isolation ahead of their opening group match against Sweden on Monday in Seville. Positive tests, training bubbles, player vaccinations - oh, and we talk about the actual football, too! EnjoyG   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I caught up with Jonathan Northcroft as he prepared for another tournament covering England for The Sunday Times, to talk about how he thinks they have changed since their run to the final four of the 2018 World Cup - an adventure he documented in the book Deadlines and Darts With Dele. Jonathan picked his one to watch from Gareth Southgate's squad and we decided in advance who was going to make it to the final. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaWelcome to the first of our daily Euro 2020 shows. I spoke to Pat Nevin, the former Chelsea and Scotland winger, about Scotland's chances of getting out of a group containing the Czech Republic, Croatia and England. Pat is a former teammate and close friend of Steve Clarke, and I think you'll love his insights into the Scotland boss.Pat also has a brilliant autobiography out, The Accidental Footballer, which makes for great summer reading.EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ahead of tomorrow's Champions League final in Portugal, Graham and Pete answer your questions. It's 10 years on from the 2011 final, when Pep Guardiola's Barcelona put together their signature performance - outclassing Manchester United at Wembley. How many of his Man City players who will take the field tomorrow would have broken into their manager's plans a decade ago? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my fascinating chat with Ilkay Gundogan, we hear about the midfielder’s admiration for his Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola. It's just about the best. most detailed and personal account that I have heard of the way the great coach works with his players and the strength of the relationships he forms. There's also plenty here on that unforgettable goalscoring run that Ilkay went on in the middle of the season.The question everybody asked him? Where did THAT come from? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Saturday, Ilkay Gundogan hopes to line up for Manchester City against Chelsea in the Champions League final - and it's a tournament that he loves - well, as much as I do. He explains it in this interview -from childhood nights in a crowded living room with his family, watching on the television; to tough early experiences and then a run to the final with Klopp's Dortmund. And now a final with Pep Guardiola's City. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Graham and Pete Jenson answer your questions about the Europa League final between Manchester United and Villarreal - as well as recapping on a thrilling end to Spanish title race.How does this version of the Yellow Submarine stack up against the great 2006 vintage of Senna, Riquelme and Forlan? Who has to fire up for Unai Emery's team to win the trophy? And why the hell did Barcelona allow Luis Suarez to leave? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaHere's Graham and Pete Jenson taking on your questions about the ESL, Malaga, Valencia and debating whether the La Liga bubble has finally burst - it's worth tuning in for the chat on that last one alone!Enjoy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Graham is joined by Pete Jenson to take your questions on the thrilling title race in Spain and the future for Atleti and their manager Simeone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my uplifting interview with Brian Laudrup, we get into the detail of Denmark’s Euro ’92 fairy tale.A disappointing draw with England was followed by defeat to hosts Sweden and the Danes prepared to pack their bags. But a star-studded France team underestimated Laudrup and Co, who clinched a semi-final place against the Netherlands. The Dutch were the competition’s most fancied side, featuring talents such as Rijkaard, Bergkamp and Van Basten. Yet Denmark won a penalty shoot-out to face Germany in the final in Gothenburg where Peter Schmeichel was a hero between the sticks and John Jensen scored an unlikely beauty. Perhaps Destiny also played her part for the Danes that summer.The lesson, friends, is to never stop believing.GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brian Laudrup was part of the Denmark side who were last-minute additions to Euro ’92. They would have been happy to have taken a point… but they only went on to win the tournament!Brian and his brother Michael weren’t keen on coach Richard Moller Nielsen’s ideas and both quit the national side. But Brian and Neilsen managed to sort things out only three months before the Euro finals began. When Yugoslavia were disqualified and Denmark invited to take their place just eight days prior to their first game, Brian didn’t think he was recovered enough from a recent injury. But he soon warmed to the idea of proving that Denmark weren’t the ugly ducklings everyone thought they were.Enjoy,GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my chat with John McGinn, we pick up just after hearing about how the midfielder’s beloved Celtic’s inexplicable dithering meant that Villa swooped for his signature. He relates the thrill of beating rivals West Brom in a penalty shootout to set up a play-off victory over Derby.John also describes Scotland’s showdown in Serbia to clinch a place at the Euros. A simple but powerful team-talk from Steve Clarke had set the players up psychologically. John, who had been substituted, describes the agony of watching the penalty shootout from the stand. He needn’t have worried, because glory awaited.Enjoy,GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was a real pleasure catching up with Scotland and Aston Villa midfield maestro John McGinn.John is a graduate of the academy at St Mirren where he was taught technique by progressive coaches – and also learned how to dodge fireworks! Let’s just say that training took place in Ferguslie Park, the more… boisterous end of Paisley. Hibernian came calling and John describes the Scottish Cup triumph of 2016 over Rangers, replete with a pitch invasion and a stirring rendition of the anthemic Sunshine on Leith.Enjoy,GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to my chat with Pete Jenson and Neil White in which we consider if Real Madrid’s Three-peat side are underrated.As we heard in part one, certainly Real’s run-up to the first final was underwhelming and they had to take city rivals Atlético to penalties. But the 4-1 thrashing of Juve and then the beating of Liverpool surely deserve more credit. After all, this is a team which featured the likes of Isco, Benzema, Casemiro, Modric and Kroos, as well as talisman Cristiano Ronaldo. Having Ronaldo was like having a goal start, and it is a distinct possibility that he himself was underrated and misunderstood. Just ask any of his team-mates. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Neil White in the chair, myself and Pete Jenson discussed a brilliant question from one of our Socios: Will time bring more respect to Real Madrid’s Three-peat team?We’re talking, of course, about the side who clinched successive Champions Leagues in 2016, 2017 and 2018, all under the auspices of club legend Zinedine Zidane. There is a perception that somehow they stumbled their way to these titles, and they aren’t as lauded as the other Three-peat clubs, Ajax and Bayern, who both achieved the feat in the 1970s. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the last six years of The Big Interview. This episode focuses on Roberto Mancini.At Sampdoria and Lazio, Mancini was Sven-Göran Eriksson’s artist, an elegant, Rolls Royce of a forward beloved by his manager and the club chairman. But he could also be a hothead, a man who lost the rag with team-mates or officials when things went wrong.As for Mancini the manager, Micah Richards speaks about working under him at Manchester City. He found Mancini to be a brutally honest perfectionist who players either loved or hated. Micah just loved him. He improved him immeasurably as a player, made him fitter and more tactical aware, and, of course, delivered that incredible 2011/2012 Premier League title win in injury time.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Ander Herrera from season three.Classy midfielder Ander is now at Paris Saint-Germain where he was recently a Champions League finalist. I caught up with him when he was still a Manchester United player and he waxed lyrical about his earlier footballing life helping his beloved Real Zaragoza survive in Spain’s top flight. He liked his time at Athletic Bilbao under the footballing romantic Marcelo Bielsa, but he describes losing two cup finals due to the team’s sheer exhaustion. There’s also great stuff about why Ander wouldn’t become a manager, and he makes his case for David de Gea being the best goalkeeper in the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to part two of The Big Interview with Rainer Bonhof, in which the World Cup winner reveals a secret about his nationality. Let’s just say that his grandfather wouldn’t have been pleased to have seen him help defeat Holland in the 1974 final!We hear about Rainer’s time as Scotland Under-21 coach when he worked with talents like Shaun Maloney and Darren Fletcher – now Belgium assistant coach and Manchester United technical director respectively. We also chat about who should be the next Germany manager and why Gerd Müller’s greatness will never be surpassed.EnjoyGrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we welcome our first German World Cup winner onto The Big Interview: Rainer Bonhof.The elegant midfielder enjoyed his prime during a golden era for Borussia Mönchengladbach. We’ll hear about team-mates Berti ‘The Terrier’ Vogts and Günter Netzer, the side’s bona fide rock star.It was also a golden era for West Germany, and Rainer made his breakthrough at the 1974 World Cup, scoring against Sweden and then setting up Gerd Müller’s winner in the final against the great Netherlands side starring Johan Cruyff.EnjoyGrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my chat with Darren Anderton, we hear about playing for England at Euro ’96, the indescribable feeling of that summer and the classy midfielder’s involvement in THAT Gazza goal against Scotland. There was the perfect performance against Holland at Wembley which was so sublime that Darren was able to take it all in, even hum along to the singing from the terraces. Compare that with the match against Argentina in France two years later, when an inept Danish referee ended England’s World Cup hopes.Playing alongside Teddy Sheringham was a joy; he made you look a better footballer because of his brilliantly simple movement and assists. He was a leader, as hard as nails, and could score any goal. You’ll also hear about how Sir Alex Ferguson tried to woo Darren – but his loyalty to Spurs was too strong.EnjoyGrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darren Anderton’s late father Norman, a Motherwell man, was his biggest supporter and his best friend. In gratitude, Darren even tried out for Scotland, but his destiny would be with three lions on his shirt.Darren was brought up a Southampton fan and played for their academy but was not asked to sign up. Therefore, Dad called up arch-rivals Portsmouth, who watched the lad and signed him as a schoolboy. Manager Alan Ball believed in him and Darren improved immensely.Darren then played for an attacking Tottenham side alongside guys like Teddy Sheringham, Gheorghe Popescu, Nick Barmby, Jürgen Klinsmann and Vinny Samways. Under Ossie Ardiles but they were too attacking, too open, but Gerry Francis improved the shape. If only they’d have kept that team together, who knows what they could have achieved.EnjoyGrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's part two of the monthly Q&A show, with Graham and Pete Jenson taking questions from our beloved socios on subjects including a scouting report on Manchester United's Europa League opponents, Granada; who Rangers could find in La Liga to replace Alfredo Morelos and the value to Real Madrid of the wonderful Casemiro. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part one of our monthly Q & A show, Graham is joined by La Liga Television's Pete Jenson to take questions from our beloved socios. From Betis to Barcelona - where returning president Joan Laporta has brought back the good vibes - we have you covered. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My chat with Paul Burgess was ground-breaking, if you’ll pardon the pun, for the Big Interview. Paul isn’t a player or a coach, but one of the world’s leading groundsmen.Paul was in charge of the last pitch at Highbury and the first at the Emirates. He had a unique view of Arsenal's Invincibles and Real Madrid's European dominance under Zidane, after he was headhunted by the Spanish giants, who believed the atrocious surface at the Bernabeu was beyond repair.Enjoy seeing football from a different angle in this special Big Interview.GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the last six years of The Big Interview. This episode focuses on Sir Alex Ferguson.Rio Ferdinand once vented his rage at Sir Alex and was fortunate not to be sold. But he never doubted his genius. Yet there was a flaw to that genius, exposed when he left Manchester United too open in the 2009 and 2011 Champions League final defeats to Barcelona. Rio found the latter defeat particularly embarrassing.Terry Gibson tells us about how Sir Alex’s arrival at Manchester United was the new broom Old Trafford needed after the lax regime of Ron Atkinson. Terry’s face didn’t fit, but luckily Wimbledon came calling.Alex McLeish relates how his former Aberdeen boss tried to poach him for Manchester United, while Darren Fletcher provides an amazing insight into a Fergie team talk. He could be unpredictable, but ultimately exuded a calmness which affected his players and filled them with belief.Lastly, fellow manager Gianluca Vialli speaks of what an inspiration Sir Alex was, and shares with us two golden nuggets of advice he always remembered.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The English game suited Uwe Rösler, and in part two we hear about how he loved the spacious Maine Road pitch and how the home fans made him feel invincible.Paul Walsh was a great guy to be around and he was also the perfect partner up front. There was also Steve McMahon, Peter Beagrie, Niall Quinn, Nicky Summerbee, Nigel Clough, and, of course, Georgi Kinkladze – the maestro. If you made the run, he would find you with a pass.You’ll hear about what it’s like to score a brilliant goal in a Manchester derby at Old Trafford. There was also the agony of relegation, when City played out a draw against Liverpool, not realising that a point wouldn’t be enough to save them.We chat about Pep Guardiola’s Bayern and City revolutions, and we hear about Uwe’s current managerial role at Fortuna Düsseldorf, where promotion to the Bundesliga is the target.Thanks, UweGrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Uwe Rösler was just eleven years old when he went to live at Lokomotive Leipzig’s academy. The experience was seminal, but what he didn’t expect was a terrifying visit from the Stasi, who wanted to him to spy on his team-mates. When Uwe heard that the Wall had come down he knew that nothing would be the same again.Eventually he would move to Manchester City where the striker, despite not having a word of English, was made incredibly welcome by the players. On the field, he made an instant impact and gave everything, and the Maine Road crowd just loved him for it.This is an absolutely fascinating Big Interview.GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Jurgen Klopp from season three.It was spring 2018 when we chatted, just before Liverpool faced Manchester City in the Champions League quarter-final. Little did we know then that Jurgen’s Reds would annihilate City and reach the final, win it the following year and, of course, clinch their long-awaited league title in 2020.Jurgen is my type of guy – a noisy, honest, heart-on-the-sleeve, larger-than-life character. He gives everything for whichever club he serves and he spoke about how he gets inside his players’ heads and changes their attitudes. Jurgen believes that everyone wants to be the best they can be, and he works to draw out their full potential.There’s great chat about Borussia Dortmund’s run to Jurgen’s first Champions League final in 2013, and he explains how football is unique because not only do you suffer with others, you also celebrate in a single instant with tens of thousands and potentially millions of people watching on TV.What a guy.Graham. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of this month's Q & A, Graham is joined by Pete Jenson to answer questions from our socios: are Haaland and Mbappe preparing a sequel to Messi v Ronaldo in Spain? Which teams have benefited and who has lost out from playing without fans? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaIt's the February Q and A - part one - where myself and Pete Jenson talk Real Mallorca, Getafe, Atleti Barca. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two, there’s more on Jason McAteer’s Mini Metro. It once got him and some team-mates into bother when they unwittingly caused a security alert at a nuclear plant.Jason didn’t like Roy Keane at first – as players on different sides of the Liverpool/Manchester United rivalry, he wasn’t likely to. But Roy’s perfectionism and will to win in the Ireland camp made Jason come to respect.Jason’s best pal Alan Stubbs was meant to move to Kenny Dalglish’s Blackburn with him, but he couldn’t resist a late bid from his beloved Liverpool. It meant that the deal fell through for Stubbsy, but there were no hard feelings.GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Friends, I don’t know if I’ve ever laughed so much in a Big Interview as I did with Jason McAteer.Jason made the grade at Bolton under Bruce Rioch, and quickly upgraded from a Mini Metro to a Lotus Elan. But Bruce wasn’t wearing it and told him to take it back to the shop.Republic of Ireland midfielder Jason came from a Liverpool boxing family, and his upbringing instilled an incredible competitiveness. That, and the thought of the naysayers who told him he’d never make it, drove him to success. But the fact is that in football and in life you can’t always win, and Jason has had to adapt his psychology to that reality.EnjoyGrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Micah Richards. For the first time, here’s the full episode.In part two Micah tells how a pre-season trip to LA bonded the Manchester City players and set their course for the famous 2012 Premier League win. Micah’s descriptions of that incredible campaign are fascinating. During the nerve-shredding final match against QPR, Mario Balotelli told fellow substitute Micah not to worry, that he would come on and change the game. He wasn’t lying.There’s also stuff on Micah’s love for his time at Fiorentina, how a 6-1 win at Old Trafford informed Manchester United that City had arrived, and how a fitness trainer helped the Sky Blues stay the distance to be crowned champions.Thanks MicahGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Micah Richards. For the first time, here’s the full episode.Micah is one of the most astute TV analysts of the beautiful game. In part one we hear about his friendship with the eccentric Mario Balotelli (they were so close that they both sported the same haircut) at Manchester City. While Micah is frank about his pal’s flaws, he also speaks about the often-unfair treatment he, and footballers in general, receive. Micah tried to protect Mario.Micah also speaks about working under City boss Roberto Mancini, a brutally honest perfectionist who players either loved or hated – Micah loved him. And there’s chat about how winning the 2011 FA Cup set the stage for league glory in 2012.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the last six years of The Big Interview. This episode focuses on Lionel Messi.Pablo Zabaleta recalls a quiet, skinny Messi in the Argentina Under-20s dressing room… then he did his talking on the pitch. At first, moving to Europe was a struggle for the lad, but he soon became a joy to behold for everyone who loves the beautiful game.Gary Neville says that seeing Messi playing in the Camp Nou against Manchester City was the only time he has been genuinely mesmerised by a player. He pitches his every description of a footballer with Messi as the benchmark.Countryman Federico Fernández speaks of a humble, family guy. Fede loves the experience of being around Messi, on and off the pitch.Ander Herrera recalls playing for Real Zaragoza against Barcelona when Messi decided to take the game by the scruff of the neck and singlehandedly set up victory.Lastly there’s a quick contribution from Graeme Souness, who considers Messi the greatest of all time. He would easily have held his own in Souey’s more robust playing era.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Paul Dickov from season three.Paul’s dad was delighted to pack his teenage son off to Arsenal to stop him getting into bother. Paul loved Gunners boss George Graham and flourished as a youth striker, but the wealth of talent at the club was stifling so he went to troubled Manchester City, who promptly sacked manager Alan Ball.Joe Royle had success despite inheriting 56 pros after a period of mismanagement, and Paul’s famous equaliser in the 95th minute of a playoff final against Gillingham set up a return to the Championship. There’s great stuff about that City era, including cult heroes Georgi Kinkladze and George Weah. Paul still adores Man City and its supporters and he is delighted to witness their recent successes. It is, he considers, a club that has kept its soul.Enjoy a genuine classic.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two, Martin Braithwaite speaks about how his dad imbued a winning mentality in him. It was tough love at times but it set him up well for the future.When playing for Toulouse against Monaco, Martin came up against Eric Abidal – the toughest opponent he has faced. Eric outsmarted him that day, but it was a lesson learned.Martin is brilliant on Lionel Messi. If you thought it would be hard playing alongside a genius, you’d be wrong. In fact, Lionel is the consummate teammate, because he is so good at setting up himself and his colleagues.EnjoyGrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I enjoyed a brief but brilliant interview with Barcelona and Denmark striker Martin Braithwaite.Martin’s style, adaptability and attitude remind me of Henrik Larsson, so it’s fitting that he now works with Henke the coach at Barca. They chat every day and Martin just loves picking the great Swede’s mind.Martin is the thinking football fan’s forward, and he is fascinating when speaking about how patience is key to the striker’s art. You prowl like a predator and get the defenders rattled, waiting for that split-second moment of opportunity and then seizing upon it.EnjoyGrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaIt's part two baby! Myself and Pete Jenson shooting the breeze on Barca, the revamped Copa, transfers and Cadiz.Enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaThis is it, part one of the January Q and A... and once again I'm joined by the legend that is Pete Jenson.Enjoy!Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my conversation with Kevin Campbell, you’ll hear about coming through the ranks at his beloved Arsenal under legendary academy coach Pat Rice. You’ll hear what it was like to witness that incredible injury-time Michael Thomas goal at Anfield which clinched the 1989 title for the Gunners.You’ll also hear about Kev’s time at Everton. He loved it there because he had service from the likes of John Collins, Scot Gemmill, Olivier Dacourt and Don Hutchison, with Franny Jeffers alongside him up front. He also once played with a fourteen-year-old genius by the name of Wayne Rooney.Now aged fifty, you get the impression that, more than anything else, this modest man is interested in passing on his wisdom – not just about sport, but about life in general.Kev, it was an honour.GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oh what joy to be sitting in the same room as a Big Interview guest, particularly one as special as Kevin Campbell.There aren’t many players who can claim they were adored at every club they played for, but Kevin is one. His love for football and his sheer commitment to winning endeared the brilliant, prolific striker wherever he went. He is also one of the beautiful game’s great storytellers.In part one, you’ll hear about the craziness of Turkish football and what it’s like to net a hat-trick for Trabzonspor at Galatasaray. There’s also an amazing description of how Kev harnessed the indignation he felt towards the social injustice he and his Brixton community endured as a driver for success.You will love this.GrahamSubscribe to The Big Interview YouTube channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Andrea Orlandi. For the first time, here’s the full episode.In part two we hear about how Andrea loved his time at Alavés. They couldn’t get promoted until a wonderful, crazy Ukrainian-American businessman Dmitry Piterman bought the club. There followed a Copa del Rey semi-final against Zaragotha.Then one day Jordi Cruyff telephoned and sold Andrea the idea of playing for Roberto Martínez at Swansea. Thus began a love affair with English (and Welsh!) football. Unfortunately, the Swans were in League One at the time, and Andrea endured a tough introduction to life in Blighty – tough tackles, a lack of facilities and a bad injury – and received no special treatment from his boss. But Martínez got them into the Championship and Brendan Rodgers took over to finish the job, attaining Premier League football after a thrilling 4-2 play-off final win against Reading. Rodgers wept when he told Andrea that he would have to sit that game out in the stands.After one minute speaking with Gus Poyet Andrea wanted to sign for Brighton. Being let go due to his injury record was a huge blow. He still adores that club.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Andrea Orlandi. For the first time, here’s the full episode.In part one you’ll hear about how this elegant winger perfected his talents at Barcelona B by observing and training with the likes of Ronaldinho, Iniesta and Busquets. The young Busquets was nicknamed ‘Crouch’ because he was tall and skinny; he had to work so hard. Iniesta was quicker than people realise, with incredible acceleration; he never gave the ball away. And Ronaldinho could have been the greatest of all time; physically so strong but with superhuman instincts and skills.At Barca B Andrea was comfortable with the rondos training drills. You had to be – it wasn’t for fun, it encompassed the way Barcelona play. To this day he can describe precisely how he kicks a football, an ability which explains why he is such an engaging analyst of the game.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the last six years of The Big Interview. This episode focuses on Cristiano Ronaldo.We start with Quinton Fortune talking about the rough footballing environment at Manchester United where Ronnie was regularly ribbed – but it only drove him on to work even harder.Then there’s former Real Madrid assistant manager Paul Clement’s tale of Ronnie calming him down in the tunnel before the 2014 Champions League final against Atletico in Lisbon.Ramón Calderón talks about signing the genius from Manchester United. Sir Alex Ferguson had stated he’d rather sell Real a virus, but Ramon insists that if a top player wants to leave, you can’t stop him.Lastly Ryan Fraser talks about playing against Ronnie when Madrid came to Bournemouth to dole out a friendly thrashing. When he put a free-kick in top corner even Ryan was applauding!Enjoy.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Andy Robertson from season three.We caught up with Andy in early 2018, just after he had played a pivotal role for Liverpool in an incredible 4-3 victory over Manchester City. That really was the moment Andy arrived at Anfield and looking back you can see how the green shoots for Liverpool’s long-awaited title win grew visible that day. There’s great stuff about what it’s like to play for Jurgen Klopp, what it felt like to be signed by Liverpool and how Kenny Dalglish is still such a huge, positive presence at the club.There’s also chat about why Celtic legend Henrik Larsson was Andy’s boyhood hero and about the ecstasy and relief that came with winning a play-off final with Hull.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pep Lijnders was in such demand as a coach that Porto took him from PSV Eindhoven at the tender age of 24. The move was a footballing culture shock – Porto’s winning mentality blew Pep away. Their scouting network is second to none, however, this risks impacting the academy. Therefore, Pep and his colleagues had to strive to create their own new generation of stars, and they certainly succeeded.Pep believes that a successful academy creates a father/son relationship between the young player and his club. He will give you that bit more once he makes the first team, and inspire another hundred boys at the academy.Thanks, Pep, that was one of the best.Graham.Subscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders provided me with simply one of the most insightful Big Interviews ever.You will hear how Jurgen Klopp and his Liverpool coaches speak in training as if they are instilling the players’ inner voice. The emphasis placed on how to press when they don’t have possession is phenomenal, and it needs perfect positioning and the players’ total buy-in. Liverpool overcome the adversity of missing stars by defiantly sticking to their philosophy, a ‘collective idea’ that is drilled into the squad. Captain fantastic Jordan Henderson is the team’s motor, the on-field leader and the link between the players and the management team.Mesmerising stuff.Graham.Subscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Charlie Adam. For the first time, here’s the full episode.In part two we hear about Charlie’s legendary shooting ability as he describes a free-kick goal in a Wembley play-off final victory for Blackpool against Cardiff. He considers the goal fated because he had hit a carbon copy in training the day before.Charlie scored against Liverpool and the Anfield club decided to sign him. He endured a battle with Blackpool to gain his release, but it was worth it in the end. Charlie’s dad wept when he signed for his personal hero Kenny Dalglish. At Liverpool, Charlie proved the doubters wrong by demonstrating that he was most certainly good enough to play at that level. He pays tribute to Liverpool legends Luis Suárez and Steven Gerrard, describes what it was like to be man-marked by Phil Jones, and how the Old Firm atmosphere is second to none.Great stuff from a great guy.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Charlie Adam. For the first time, here’s the full episode.Charlie was brought up on a Dundee housing estate where he honed his skills by kicking a ball relentlessly at bin recesses and between washing poles. Charlie speaks about the early influence of his beloved late father, who taught him a work ethic and a relentless will to win. It all paid off because Rangers came calling.As an Ibrox youth he champed at the bit, trying outrageous stuff on the training field or sneaking in to watch the first team prepare. He was always watching, learning, visualising, plotting. To this day he is able to vividly describe his artistry in detail, how he precisely strikes the ball. For example, he relates how on earth he managed to score a goal for Stoke City at Chelsea from inside his own half.Part two coming soon.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jamie Carragher never enjoyed international tournaments and wonders if England puts too much into its club game – which is a matter life and death – instead of valuing national side’s endeavours more.Also in part two, he describes the 1999 Champions League final between Manchester United and Bayern Munich, and argues that David Beckham’s performance that night – and his talents in general – are undersold.We chat about Liverpool’s incredible 4-0 trouncing of Barcelona last year in the Champions League semi. Jamie says that Jurgen Klopp makes players believe that they can do anything.Lastly we talk about Xavi, the player Jamie most admires because he had such a quick footballing brain. He took charge of a game and told others what to do.Thanks Jamie, that was sheer class.GrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jamie Carragher’s new book The Greatest Games documents the best matches he has experienced as a player and as a spectator. He played in a few crackers, not least the 2005 ‘Miracle of Istanbul’ when Liverpool came back from the dead against AC Milan in the Champions League final.As a pundit, Jamie employs the same exacting standards he applied to his long and auspicious career as an Anfield defender. He has to, because supporters are incredibly well informed and analytically astute these days. And Jamie wants to ask why a manager makes a decision rather than just lobbing criticism.We chat about Jamie’s time playing for England under Sven-Göran Eriksson. Sven picked the safest options and didn’t impart anything new. His coaching was very basic. Yet British players are too loath to criticise. Former Liverpool coach Pepe Reina once told Jamie and Steven Gerrard that he was surprised that they and other senior pros were so humble and silent.EnjoyGrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the last six years of The Big Interview. This episode focuses on Zinedine Zidane.Former Bayern Munich and Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves talks about what struck him most when he first played against his hero: he was very quiet, and a tackle with him was like colliding with a brick wall.Jimmy Bullard admired Zidane so much that he even wore his boots and shorts like him. In fact, on one occasion the tightness of his shorts was such that it impeded him from scoring an easy goal for Wigan!Next up is Steve McManaman, who speaks about how Zizou endured a frustrating start at Real Madrid. Then came the 2002 Champions League final win over Bayer Leverkusen, and nobody doubted the great man after it.Lastly we hear from former Real president Ramón Calderón, who says how promoting Zinedine from the position of reserve team coach to the biggest role in club football management was a risk that paid off.Enjoy.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Terry Gibson from season three.I know Terry well from covering Spanish football over the years, and I find him to be one of the most engaging, funny and astute analysts of the game.He recounts honestly what it felt like to depart Tottenham, the club he has always loved and who he felt had treated him shabbily. There’s great stuff about his only career hat-trick – for Coventry against the mighty Liverpool, and just how lax Ron Atkinson’s regime was at Manchester United. Alex Ferguson was the new broom and Terry and Fergie soon fell out. Terry withdrew his initial threat to quit football, telling the great manager: I’ll be back to score against you and to win a trophy. He made good on both promises, and the second one was fulfilled when Wimbledon lifted the 1988 FA Cup.Take it away, Terry.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As part of the post-Kobe earthquake rebuilding job Stuart Baxter was allowed to sign Danish superstar Michael Laudrup. They gained promotion but the experience drained him of every ounce of energy.Stuart speaks of his love of South African football, especially at Kaizer Chiefs where he won the double in his first season. Fate seems to have stood in the way of him making it big in Blighty. Circumstances denied him key roles at Manchester United and Celtic, but he had the honour of working with Hoops legend Henrik ‘Henke’ Larsson when they were both at Helsingborgs. He brokered Henke’s loan deal to Manchester United where Sir Alex Ferguson adored him.This is a fascinating Big Interview. Just fascinating.GrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If there is a more interesting, well-travelled coach in modern football than my pal Stuart Baxter then I’ve yet to meet him.Stuart’s dedication to karate was good preparation for an early brush with the rants of legendary Dundee United manager Wee Jim McLean and for the high demands of the passionate fans of AIK. As manager, he made AIK Swedish league champions again and became a hero of the ‘Black Army’ ultras. Stuart loved his spells in Japan, but his first time managing Kobe coincided with the city’s devastating earthquake. Stuart stuck around to help rebuild.Good for you, Stuart.GrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's part two of the Q & A, with Qs from our beloved socios and As from Graham and our special guest, Pete Jenson of La Liga television. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaThis is a brilliant episode of our monthly Q and A show featuring my old mucker, Pete Jenson, who reports on Spanish football for the Daily Mail and La Liga TV.Barca, Madrid, Atleti, La Real and more. Enjoy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alan McInally won the Bundesliga in his first season at Bayern Munich, missing only two games. He learned German and starred alongside legends like Klaus Augenthaler, Hans Pflügler and Jürgen Kohler. There was also current boss Hans-Dieter Flick, a quiet scholar of the game who has brought huge success to the club. Alan’s manager Jupp Heynckes was very demanding but brilliant. The players were weighed every day and trained every Sunday. Alan loved president Uli Hoeneß who was so kind to him when his career was tragically cut short by injury at the age of just 30.Also in part two, Alan vividly describes what it felt like walking out to play in a World Cup match for Scotland.Thanks for a brilliant Big Interview, Big ManGraham.Subscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alan ‘Rambo’ McInally works so well on television because he brings the same passion and astuteness that he employed in his career as a clever, uncompromising striker. In this Big Interview, he describes in forensic detail a goal of the season he once scored for Aston Villa against Millwall.We chat about Alan’s move from Celtic to Villa where he played under the late Graham Taylor. He had great midfield suppliers like Gordon ‘Sid’ Cowans and the late great Neale ‘Tattie’ Cooper. Graham was a father figure, unyielding but without whose coaching Alan wouldn’t have achieved his next move, to Bayern Munich.Thanks for a brilliant Big Interview, Big Man.Graham.Subscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Alex Bruce. For the first time, here’s the full episode.In part two we hear about Alex’s admiration for Manchester United heroes Ronaldo, Giggs and Keane, but especially Rooney, a pal now but once an enemy who would target him for being Steve Bruce’s son. Alex thinks Wayne is underrated, one of England’s greatest players. We also hear how as a kid Alex would take shots at a young Kasper Schmeichel in their street and how one day they would grace the same Leeds United team.There’s talk about why Alex switched his international allegiances from the Republic to Northern Ireland – for once ignoring his father’s advice. Alex tells how the Championship is physically harder than Premier League, and how gaining promotion with Hull was an especially sweet experience because his beloved dad was the manager.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Alex Bruce. For the first time, here’s the full episode.In part one we hear about how being the Manchester United captain’s son was just normality to Alex, how Old Trafford’s superstars were just his old man’s workmates. But what he saw inspired him, and he wanted it for himself. The culmination was when Alex graced the Wembley turf as an accomplished centre-half, although that FA final with Hull City – a five-goal thriller against Arsenal – ended in defeat.There’s chat about how his youth career faltered at Man U – and was then resurrected at Blackburn Rovers, we discuss Tom Huddlestone – a wonderfully gifted player who made everything look easy, and we talk of how a terrific Hull dressing room gave him no problem for being the boss’ son.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the last five years of The Big Interview. This episode focuses on Henrik Larsson.First up, we’ll hear from stand up star Kevin Bridges and his tale of Larsson and the defiled Glasgow bus ticket. Then Line of Duty actor Martin Compston reflects on his love affair with Celtic’s magnificent number seven. Jocky Bjorklund talks about his former Old Firm rival and international teammate’s football intelligence before Stiliyan Petrov considers how Larsson inspired such confidence in his Celtic team-mates that they almost won the UEFA Cup. Chris Sutton rounds things off by saying that his Parkhead partnership with the legendary Swede was the happiest spell of his career. He felt that between them they could hurt any side in Europe.Enjoy!Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Martin Compston from season three.It was so much fun chatting with the guy who plays Detective Sergeant Steve Arnott in the phenomenally popular crime drama Line Of Duty. But did you know that Martin’s earliest role was playing sweeper in the youth teams of Greenock Morton and, later, the mighty Aberdeen? He quit football for his acting career, but his love for the beautiful game, nurtured by watching Celtic heroes such as Paul McStay and Henrik Larsson, never flagged. He played alongside Henrik once and was so starstruck he couldn’t speak.Martin has made a couple of football-themed movies. He gives us behind-the-scenes insights into performing with The Damned United actors Michael Sheen and Stephen Graham, and what it was like working with legendary director Ken Loach for the film Tickets.There’s stuff about being led astray by pal Greg McHugh before starring for José Mourinho’s side in a Soccer Aid match, and why he would love to play Scotland’s first world champion boxer Benny Lynch.Enjoy!Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two with Conor Coady we continue chatting about Wolves in Europe. Losing late on to serial winners Seville – who featured talents such as Jules Koundé and Éver Banega – in this year’s Europa quarter-final was agony. All their hard work felt in vain.There’s great stuff about the culture of recovery in place at Molineux thanks to their excellent sports science staff. This even features ice baths and, I kid you not, inflatable trousers. Then there’s Wolves’ secret weapon… a card game called Werewolf which brings unity to the squad.And we touch on Conor’s recent post-match interview after scoring for England against Wales… even a Scotsman can love that level of passion.Thanks ConorGrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chatting to a guy like Conor Coady reminds me why I do these Big Interviews. The Wolves’ centre-back’s enthusiasm for football is infectious and engaging.Brought up a Liverpool fan, he lived the dream for a while playing under youth coaches like Steve Highway, Steve Cooper and Rodolfo Borrell, men who made him a better person as well as a better, problem-solving player. Conor loved playing top clubs in the NextGen European tournament for under-19 footballers. A visit to Dortmund and a painful 6-0 lesson from Ajax stick in the mind. Being released from Anfield broke Conor’s heart, but his dad encouraged him to take his time and wait for his body to fill out, and he has flourished at Wolves.We chat about Wolves’ recent Europa adventures. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo is a hard taskmaster who hates losing. Even after the delicious victory at Beşiktaş he said he wanted more.Thanks ConorGrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When asked who his toughest opponent in football was, Robert Huth doesn’t hesitate: Didier Drogba. Not just a beast, but also an immensely clever player. So was N’Golo Kanté, who Robert played behind at Leicester.In part two of this brilliant Big Interview, we also hear about Jurgen Klinsmann’s revolution at Germany which a young Robert was the beneficiary of. Despite resistance to his methods, Jurgen was an innovator who cut through the stuffy old ways which had placed the German national team in a rut. Robert’s surprise debut was against a magnificent Brazil side, and he describes watching from the bench one of the greatest Italy performances ever, in the 2006 World Cup. The defeat put Germany in despair, but Jurgen laid the foundations for 2014 glory.Thanks Robert.GrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Robert Huth will forever be remembered by Chelsea fans for driving a groundsman’s buggy swarming with jubilant players during title celebration day in 2005.During Jose Mourinho’s Blues revolution not a second of training was wasted. Jose was a totemic figure and there was an intensity and an attention to detail that fired the players’ imaginations.It was all a far cry from the tough East Berlin neighbourhood where former centre-half Robert had been brought up, where you honed your skills on a gravel surface (just like in Scotland). His dad had been imprisoned for speaking out against the Communist regime. Judo taught Robert self-defence and confidence, but also humility and problem solving skills. He is a critic of the rigidity of modern coaching methods which don’t sufficiently account for what to do when things go wrong. I’m with him on that.Enjoy this brilliant Big Interview guest.GrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Eni Aluko. For the first time, here’s the full episode.In part two we’ve got more about the progress of the women’s game and how outspoken stars like Eni and Norway’s Ada Hegerberg took stances against mediocrity, poor coaching and bad treatment of players. Eni had a particularly painful experience with the culture at England. She forgives her antagonists now but she was mystified that she wasn’t selected for France ’19.There’s great stuff about the ruthless attitude that made the US dominate the women’s game, and about Eni’s long-term interest in developing talent and growing a winning culture at a club. Since our interview she has hung up her boots and become sporting director of Aston Villa Women. I’m sure she will be a great success.Graham. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Eni Aluko. For the first time, here’s the full episode.I went to Turin to speak with Eni during her glittering spell with Juventus. In part one we chat about how she went to Juve to develop as a player and a person, and about adjusting to life at one of the world’s biggest clubs. She believes you are never too old to grow. Eni is an elite analyst who spent the summer of 2019 covering the World Cup for Fox Sports, and we discover what it was like watching the women’s game crack mainstream football culture.By the way, Eni’s autobiography, They Don’t Teach This, is a football story like no other. I’d highly recommend it.Graham. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our Big Interview Icons series, where we shine a light on a legend whose name has lit up some of the conversations I’ve had with my guests over the last five years of The Big Interview. First up is Eric Cantona.How to describe Eric… a Harley-Davidson-riding, collar-turned-up, French rebel genius. He was a totem for an era of fellow magicians and mavericks in England’s top division.Simon Stainrod played against King Eric in France and predicted that Leeds boss Howard Wilkinson wouldn’t like him, and that Eric would be better off playing for someone like Alex Ferguson. ‘You can’t coach him… you can only put ideas in his head,’ concludes Simon. Chris Waddle played alongside Eric at Marseille and believes he flourished when he moved across the Channel because English fans love a rule-breaker, someone unpredictable. We then hear from Gary McAllister and Gordon Strachan who speak about Eric’s spell at Leeds. Gary says that he wasn’t integral to the club’s 1992 league title win. Gordon takes a different view, that Eric made the difference as the other players started to tire. Gordon, like Simon Stainrod, saw Manchester United as Eric’s perfect fit.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Any Argentinian will still play second-fiddle to the legend of Diego Armando Maradona in Naples, but Federico Fernandez didn’t mind this and doesn’t feel that it ever held the club back. When he was at Napoli he lifted two Copa Italias, and he describes the route to the second one, defeating Lazio, Roma and then Fiorentina in a final with a nervy ending.There’s stuff about ex-Napoli stars Pepe Reina – a man so positive that he is the world’s greatest teammate – and Edinson Cavani – the complete forward who will now make life hell for Premier League defenders.We also discuss Federico’s international career, from the high of scoring with a header in a victory over arch-rivals Brazil, to the low of being dropped for the latter stages of the 2014 World Cup, the final of which, of course, Argentina lost to Germany in an agonisingly close contest.Gracias FedeGrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Federico Fernandez has made an impression on Geordie shores over the last two years, but it was Napoli where the Argentinian centre-half made the grade. His hero Roberto Ayala had done a stint at the Stadio San Paolo in the nineties and Federico sought his advice, but nothing could have prepared him for the football-mad city where five hundred people would wait by a restaurant if a player was breaking bread inside. Federico is still remembered by Napoli fans for his first two goals for the club in one Champions League match in Munich.Before that, at Estudiantes in Argentina, Federico had been taught by Eduardo Berizzo, who had himself been a masterful centre-half. There was also the influence of a veteran Juan Sebastian Veron, whose work ethic, determination, and winning mentality raised the standards at the club. He encouraged a teenage Federico and gave him confidence.You will love this Big InterviewGrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Jamie Murray from season three.Jamie is one of the best doubles players in the world, but his sporting obsessions extend beyond tennis. Not only did he regularly defeat his wee brother Andy in homespun wrestling bouts, he is also a decent footballer and in this Big Interview he picks his perfect five-a-side team from the ATP tour. It includes a certain Paulo Maldini after the Italian legend had hung up his boots and picked up his racquet. There’s chat about being attracted to Sir Alex Ferguson’s exciting Manchester United side, and of course the 2016 Scottish Cup final when Jamie’s beloved Hibernian at last broke their Hampden hoodoo.Enjoy,Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's part two of my chat with Joachim Bjorklund - featuring a staggering Champions League run with Gothenburg, scalping Barcelona and Manchester United, plus stories from his time as part of a wonderful Valencia team under Claudio Ranieri and Hector Cuper. That side reached back-to-back Champions League finals, won a Copa del Rey and had Louis Van Gaal's Barcelona in their pocket. Subscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's Joachim ‘Jocky’ Björklund, my former colleague at La Liga TV and now Hammarby assistant manager. His son Kalle plays for him there, just like Jocky once played for his dad at Brann.We had a simply fantastic conversation, discussing Jocky’s rapid rise to the Sweden team that reached back-to-back semi-finals at Euro ’92 and USA 94, and its stars, including Henrik Larsson and Tomas Brolin, his nation’s rock star footballer, and one worth revisiting.Jocky says that the best two players he played alongside were Brian Laudrup and Paul Gascoigne when he was at Rangers, and he speaks insightfully and movingly when he describes Gazza’s troubles.Utterly brilliant, sparkling stuff.Graham.Subscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Matt Jansen. For the first time, here’s the full episode.In part two, you’ll hear more about the psychological damage Matt’s accident inflicted on him. With the best of intentions, Blackburn got him back playing but his sense of invincibility had given way to fear, and he didn’t want the ball any more. He was on medication and drinking heavily. Psychiatrist Steve Peters was a great help, but he couldn’t be with the footballer all of the time. Matt eventually quit football, but a phone call from his old pal Garry Flitcroft kicked off a spell playing and managing in the lower leagues.There’s light-hearted chat in this interview too, such as why Matt’s Beatles-mad father nicknamed him ‘Maxwell,’ and how his Crystal Palace team-mate Hermann Hreiðarsson arranged to have him ‘kidnapped’ in Iceland. There’s also great stuff about the ordeal of having to knock back Sir Alex Ferguson, and what it was like to play alongside the wonderful Andy Cole.What a life story Matt has. What a privilege it was to speak with him.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Matt Jansen. For the first time, here’s the full episode.In part one, you’ll hear how Matt was a thoroughbred centre-forward with a cultured left foot – and no little courage. After spells at his hometown club of Carlisle United and then Crystal Palace, he signed for Blackburn. He scored the first goal and set up the winner in Rovers’ 2-1 League Cup final victory over Tottenham Hotspur in 2002. Everything was going brilliantly, until he was cruelly denied a place in Sven-Göran Eriksson’s England squad for the 2002 World Cup.Instead of heading to Japan and Korea that summer, he went to Rome with his future wife. England could wait – he felt invincible, the happiest man in the world. And then disaster struck. Matt was so seriously injured in a scooter accident that the paramedics thought he had died. After six days in a coma, he began his rehabilitation and made a full physical recovery. But when he went back onto the pitch everything he had previously done automatically became laboured. The sound of the crowd sighing added to the agony.Thanks for sharing, Matt.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Slaven Bilic from season three.We hear about Bilic the Croatia centre-back, a member of the side so many of us adored at Euro ’96 and which nearly won the World Cup two years later. The manager, Miroslav Blažević was a master tactician and psychologist, but boy did he have the tools: Boban, Šuker, Bokšić and Prosinečki.At Euro ’96, the players were ambassadors for a new country and lost the final to Germany at Wembley. They were christened ‘Croatian knights’ by their country’s president at France ’98 when they beat the Germans, but Slaven insists it was not a revenge mission. They won because they had more maturity, more self-belief, their usual incredible team spirit and also a slice of good luck. That luck didn’t hold in the semi against the hosts, and surely the Croatians would have prevailed in a final against a troubled Brazil.A brilliant, passionate Big Interview.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The new La Liga season starts this weekend and our socios wanted to know all about it. I answer their questions, such as: Who will win the title? Which signings have been the most shrewd? What will the relegation scrap look like? And how will El Mago, the mighty David Silva, fare as he returns to the divison after a decade in Manchester? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hola!Everything you wanted to know about Lionel Messi's situation but were afraid to ask... well, actually our Socios did ask, and here's my thoughts!EnjoyBecome a Socio of The Big Interview Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Bridges had a special instinct for goals and had a prolific first season at Leeds, which included a tremendous run in the UEFA Cup, but after sustaining a terrible injury in a match against Besiktas he was told by his surgeon he would never play again. But physio Dave Hancock believed in him and persuaded him not to quit. Just as well, because Michael’s career was far from over. He speaks movingly about the tragic events in Istanbul in 2000 when two Leeds supporters were murdered. It is Michael’s biggest regret that the players didn’t refuse to play the game against Galatasaray.But there’s lighter stuff in part two, too. For example, did you know he could have played for Scotland? And did you know that he is probably the greatest-ever prankster British football has produced? Listen out also for Michael’s enthusiasm for Leeds’ return to the top flight, and his passion for the style of play current manager Marcelo Bielsa has adopted.Enjoy,GrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Bridges was a mixed-up kid. His beloved late father would take him to see Newcastle United, but his adulation for Chris Waddle migrated to White Hart Lane and to this day he remains a Tottenham fan. Michael signed for Sunderland – much to his dad’s horror – and nowadays is Australian ambassador for Leeds United, the club at which he excelled.We hear about swapping jerseys with Alessandro Costacurta and how David Batty told Michael that he had ‘arrived’ at Leeds after he scored a superb goal against Southampton. Peter Reid and Eddie Gray were massive coaching influences. Lucas Radebe, Harry Kewell and Mark Viduka were on-field inspirations. Oh, and there’s being caught by his manager and fitness coach when about to munch into a hamburger.Enjoy,GrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my Big Interview with Emiliano Martinez, we learn about his time on loan at Reading, where he is fondly remembered for helping the Royals avoid relegation from the Championship.We hear about what it’s like working under Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, what an inspirational, supportive manager he is, a great communicator with a sharp mind. His players have total trust in him. Mikel wants Emiliano to play like an auxiliary centre-half – as though in a back five – and take risks with the ball at his feet, a challenge which the keeper just relishes.There’s also chat about Emiliano’s dream back four, and being part of the build-up in a dream goal against Manchester City.EnjoyGrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was heart-wrenching for a teenage Emiliano Martinez to depart his beloved family for the distant prospect of Arsenal. But the Argentinian goalkeeper did what he did best – he worked hard, and after years of commitment he starred in the recent FA Cup final victory over Chelsea.He wasn’t fazed by the occasion, even when the Gunners went a goal down, because Emiliano has perfected his game psychology. His tears of joy afterwards were profound because this No1 had it tough as a kid and had given everything for his dream.Enjoy a true rags to riches Big Interview.GrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of my Big Interview with Domènec Torrent, there’s more on those glorious Camp Nou days, including Barca’s famous treble of 2008-09.Domènec grabbed the chance to assist Pep Guardiola at Bayern Munich with both hands, and discovered that it was a myth that club legends interfered with team management there. He also busted the myth that Frank Ribery and Arjen Robben would be difficult charges. In fact, Arjen was a joy to work with and thrived under Pep. As if fated, Bayern were drawn against Barca in the 2015 Champion League semi-final, and held their own in the Camp Nou until a late error let Messi in. Then Bayern made the fatal error of chasing the game and ended up losing 3-0. The fans’ passion and improving players of quality such as Raheem Sterling made Domènec’s time at Manchester City a thrill, and he maintains that winning the English top flight is harder than claiming the Champions League. Domènec now can’t wait to get a new managerial role, and I wish him good luck with that. Whoever employs him will have made a wise move.Enjoy.Graham.Subscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Pep Guardiola took the reins at Barcelona B in 2007, he quickly snapped up the services of respected Catalan coach Domènec Torrent. Domènec was Pep’s go-to guy whenever he wanted the skinny on an opponent, and he helped nurture talents like Busquets and Pedro.Soon Pep was managing Barcelona’s first team, and Domènec came along for the ride. Thus began a journey to immortality: three La Liga titles and two Champions Leagues with Barca, two Bundesliga crowns with Bayern Munich, and a Premier League win with Manchester City.It was great having a Big Interview with someone in the flesh again, and Domènec gives us fascinating insights into what it was like behind the scenes during that glorious Barca era: how the coaches perfected the team’s build-up play and high-pressing game, and how it took a genius like Pep to draw out the absolute best from the array of on-field geniuses at his disposal.Fascinating stuff.Graham.Subscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The turmoil and internal conflict at Barcelona saw them lose La Liga to their arch rivals and now they face Napoli at Camp Nou in a dangerous second leg, last 16 match on Saturday.The 1-1 draw in Italy seems a lifetime ago, but the problems that circled Barcelona then remain: primary among them, discord between a new coaching staff and the senior players, and a decline in the physical power of the team. But there have also been signs that the players who have achieved so much may be able to fight on in the tournament that their leader, Leo Messi, obsesses over. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaThis is my look ahead to this week's Champions League last-16 tie between Manchester City and Real Madrid.Enjoy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaHere's my take on the La Liga season just finished, including reflections on Valencia, Sevilla, Granada and Espanyol.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 2008, Rio Ferdinand’s Champions League dream came true on a rainy night in Moscow.The final against Chelsea was a game Rio was terrified to lose. He had to take a penalty in the shootout, an experience he says you simply cannot prepare yourself for. But his mum just loved it when he walked up to lift the big trophy.Rio once raged at Sir Alex Ferguson from the pitch. The manager was so angered that he would have sold him had he not apologised. Fergie was a genius, a man with an incredible personal touch. Pep Guardiola was the only guy who could have filled his shoes. United had beaten Barcelona in the ’08 semi, but Pep's team were a different beast in the 2009 and 2011 finals. Rio felt embarrassed after those games and said that Barca ripped the soul from that United team. Although they were up against the greatest side of all time, Rio knows they could and should have done better. Fergie should have set them up differently, more compactly, more counter-attacking.Thanks Rio.GrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We promised you a special 100th guest … so who better than Rio Ferdinand, a man with a Champions League, six Premier Leagues and 81 England caps under his belt. Rio was a centre-half so elegant that he could have played in midfield. Damn it, he could have played up front if he wanted.He left Leeds to join Manchester United because he had a burning desire to win. He got his hands on the league title in his first season at Old Trafford but that merely fuelled the addiction. He wanted European glory. He wanted the Champions League.At Leeds Rio had come close, scoring a sublime header in a quarter-final against Deportivo. But the Valencia of Juan Sánchez and John Carew taught them a lesson in the semi. At Man United they ripped Juventus to shreds but a year later Real Madrid narrowly put them out in a ding-dong 6-5 aggregate win, when Raúl stretched him like never before.This is a brilliant 100th Big Interview.GrahamSubscribe to Between the Lines: The Stories Behind Great Sports Writing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaHere's part two, as myself and producers Martin and Neil reflect back on some of the 99 guests we've had on the show over the past five years.Look out for 100th guest, Rio Ferdinand, tomorrow. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HolaHere's myself, and producers Martin and Neil reflecting back on some of the 99 guests we've had on the show over the past five years. Listen up for some crazy behind-the-scenes tales of our adventures on the road and revealing insights into some of our guests.Look out for 100th guest, Rio Ferdinand, later this week. EnjoyG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There were mixed European fortunes for Dietmar Hamann at Bayern Munich: a famous triumph in Barcelona followed by a UEFA Cup final win over Bordeaux, but also a tough lesson from an Ajax side which Dietmar describes as one of the best ever.After head coach Otto Rehhagel was undermined by certain players, Giovanni Trapattoni was soon back and Dietmar won his second German title. Trapp also issued the most famous outburst in German football history. Newcastle then came calling, and life in England sparked a love affair with that other beautiful game: cricket. There was an FA Cup Final defeat to the mighty Manchester United but Dietmar’s Tyneside days set him up for a move to Liverpool, where greatness beckoned.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dietmar Hamann is one of the beautiful game’s most engaging characters; sheer class as a guy just as he had been sheer class as a player. Before his breakthrough, he was a marauding offensive midfielder, but after he caught Bayern Munich’s eye he was given the holding role, a position he made it his own.Head coaches Franz Beckenbauer and then Giovanni Trapattoni were massive influences at Bayern. ‘Der Kaiser’ had an aura about him when he walked into a room and took a relaxed approach. ‘Il Trapp’ was different: an emotional man and a hard taskmaster, but still loved by his players.Dietmar describes what it was like to come off the bench to score his first senior goal in a 5-0 victory over Nuremberg as The Bavarians homed in on their first Bundesliga crown in four years.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the World Cup final of 2010.As our mini-series concludes, let's go back to the build-up to Spain v Holland: both Franz Beckenbauer and Paul the Octopus predicted a Spain win, but nobody foresaw the nature of their victory.There has never been a dirtier World Cup final - there could easily have been more than the one red card we saw. And Holland could easily have left with the trophy and the glory, were it not for an eternal moment - perhaps the most memorable from my journalistic career - between Arjen Robben and Iker Casillas.And that's before we even get to Iniesta. Or, for that matter, Gerard Pique, who almost got me into serious trouble in the immediate aftermath of this unforgettable game.I hope you have enjoyed this series. If you'd like to find out about the book I wrote on Spain's three successive trophy wins from 2008 to 2012, in hardback, paperback and audiobook (read by me), then you can do that here: Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the final four, socios.For Germany, it's World Cup semi-final number 11. For Spain, number one.It's a rematch of the 2008 European Championships final. And it's a repeat of the same scoreline. Spain outplay their most dangerous opponent of the tournament but they need a singular goal to reach the final.Here's the back story to Carles Puyol's majestic leap; where I rank it in the pantheon of World Cup headers; and how the evening ended with Puyi face-to-face with the Queen of Spain, wearing only a towel (Puyol, not Queenie).  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spain v Paraguay. Quarter-finals.Spain's top two goalkeepers, Iker Casillas and Pepe Reina, conspire to keep out Oscar Cardozo's penalty - and that's just the start of one of the craziest five minutes in World Cup history - two more penalties, another not given and after all that the score is still 0-0. With the clock ticking down, and their quarter-final curse looming, Spain turn to the tournament's top scorer once more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's matchday in South Africa 2010, so it's time to see what Spain were up to.It's the round of 16 and it's Portugal: that means Ronaldo. He was the world's most expensive footballer and had just finished his first season in the white of Madrid. Behind him, was one of the meanest defences in world football.Spain had to innovate to stifle Ronaldo and break down the defensive barrier that stood between them and a quarter-final spot. Here's how they did it. BUY Spain: The Inside Story of La Roja's Historic Treble in paperback, ebook or audiobook (read by Graham) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the sweltering heat of Orlando Pat Bonner misjudged a net-bound shot during Ireland’s knock-out defeat to the Netherlands at USA ’94. Getting over setbacks like that, and indeed the whole psychology of goalkeeping, has obsessed him ever since he hung up his gloves. He has been a top-level coach, he has developed goalkeeping courses and he has been a consultant to the major footballing bodies.In this brilliant lock-down Big Interview, he is incredibly insightful on the nature of modern goalkeeping, especially on how the No1 has now become a player in his own right. It is little wonder Pat is such a sought-after broadcast analyst. He is also one of the true gents of the beautiful game.Thanks for breaking the lock-down monotony, Pat.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's win or bust in the final group game. Spain must Defeat Chile or go home. This was packed full of incident: a whirlwind start by Chile; two beautiful goals from Iniesta and Villa; a red card that should never have been; and the most bitter memory of the World Cup for my taste, as Chile offered Spain a murky deal, which they eventually accepted. Before that, nerves were shredded and I had to use all my wiles to get Spain's talismanic superfan past stadium security. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pat Bonner was made in Donegal: his values, resilience and work ethic were instilled in him by his family and his community, while playing Gaelic football toughened him up for a glittering soccer career.He was Celtic’s stalwart No1 for years, winning nine major honours at the club, and he earned 80 caps for the Republic of Ireland. His penalty save in a shootout in Genoa against Romania - exactly 30 years ago this week - earned his national side a place in the quarter-finals of Italia ’90. Just weeks before, Pat had failed to save a single kick in the shootout against my beloved Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup final. But he analysed and strategised and gave his country one of their biggest parties ever. Everyone in the world was a little bit Irish that night.EnjoyGraham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the Spanish press lose their minds in the wake of an opening defeat against Switzerland, Vicente Del Bosque sends his under-fire players on safari. This is just one of the ways in which the European champions are treated as adults and now, in crisis mode, it pays off. They find a collective solution and move into Game Two, against Honduras, as one. Elsewhere, England, France and Italy are not so resilient. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're off and running with our World Cup 2010 recap. Here's what I saw and heard while tracking Spain for the first few days of their tournament, up to and including their first match against Switzerland.Why getting the right training camp counts.How to tame a dangerous Puyol in the wild. The Ali-Frazier nature of the series of matches between Vicente Del Bosque and Ottmer Hitzfeld, the two coaches, when they were in charge of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.And, of course, the game. A weird one, at the end of which Spain would know they had to make history if they were to add a world title to their European one.All of this and a dance through the other games in the first round: Rob Green costs England Maicon scores a belter for BrazilTshabalala starts the party.Want to read the whole story of how Spain on in 2008, 2010 and 2012? Find out about the book here:   https://backpagepress.co.uk/books/spain/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to a new mini series on the Big Interview feed, retreading Spain's journey to their only World Cup title, 10 years ago.In this first episode, before the tournament begins, we'll look at the player who will eventually give the 2010 World Cup in South Africa it's signature moment, Andrés Iniesta.As the countdown to the finals intensifies, Iniesta is broken: physically, mentally and spritually. The extent of his depression and his despair at the death of a close friend and his own physical frailty was unclear back in 2010. What we know now is that the man who will win the World Cup for Spain could very easily have been left at home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Brendan Rodgers took the Celtic job he was advised to jettison Scott Brown. Instead, Brendan invited him to his London home where they chatted about what behaviour he expected from a captain, and also how he could incorporate ‘Broonie’ in a different role. Despite the relatively advanced stage in his career, Scott transformed his attitude and style of play, and coach and skipper lifted trophy after trophy in Glasgow.When Brendan took over at Leicester, he again forged a crucial relationship with the incumbent captain, Wes Morgan, and there’s great stuff about Leicester and England talents James Maddison and Ben Chilwell. Brendan also reflects on why Philippe Coutinho was adored at Liverpool but failed to hit the ground running at Barcelona.Finally, there’s a moving testament on how Brendan considers himself duty-bound to help preserve the legacy and vision of beloved Leicester owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, who died in such tragic circumstances in 2018. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brendan Rodgers possesses one of the sharpest analytical minds in football, but more than that he is a purist, a devotee of the beautiful game– as demonstrated by the verve with which his high-flying Leicester side plays. As a rookie coach, Brendan had the foresight to regularly visit Spain to soak up the methods employed there – not least because the Spanish had a way of incorporating players of a shorter stature, something the Northern Irishman could relate to!Brendan tells us about working with true greats: Samuel Eto’o was the ultimate winner, Luis Suárez was the ultimate team player. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Chris Sutton from season two.Chris’ success as a striker in England and Scotland was rooted in a tough start. As a kid, an initial rejection by his local club Norwich just made him all the hungrier – and a second bite at the cherry with the Canaries plus his dad and his youth coach’s tough motivational approaches set him on the trajectory to a trophy-laden career.At Norwich he once faced Alan Shearer while playing as a centre-half, and was on the end of a 7-1 schooling. But he so shone as a striker at Carrow Road that he would soon partner Shearer at Blackburn after a record transfer move. There, manager Kenny Dalglish had his players walking through walls for him all the way to a famous last-day league title win. Yet it was Chris’ incredibly successful relationship with the legendary Henrik Larsson at Celtic that was his most cherished, not least because it followed a very difficult period at Chelsea during which he had lost his confidence.I guarantee you will love hearing this very different side to one of the game’s great characters.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Mark Schwarzer. For the first time, here’s the full episode.Mark had a love affair with the UEFA Cup/Europa League, reaching the final of each with Middlesbrough and Fulham respectively, and, sadly, losing both. But this remarkable man is disarmingly philosophical about both defeats. In part two Mark also describes the incredible encounter against Manchester City that clinched Boro’s UEFA place, in which he crucially saved a late Robbie Fowler penalty in a match in which fellow goalie David James wore an outfield shirt! Mark describes his fraught relationship with Boro boss Steve McClaren, being part of Fulham’s incredible comeback against Juventus and the euphoria of Australia qualifying for the 2006 World Cup.If you would prefer not to wait 12 months to listen to these extra interviews, it’s time to become a Socio at patreon.com/grahamhunter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Mark Schwarzer. For the first time, here’s the full episode.Mark – an Aussie with German parents – kept goal for Dresden in the unsettled aftermath of reunification, and then at Kaiserslautern, where he was disrespected and unappreciated. His big break in England came when he was trialling for Manchester City in a friendly against Bradford. Bantams manager Chris Kamara liked the cut of his jib and signed him up. Mark speaks about breaking a bone in his back while at Fulham in a match against Swansea – and then playing on! He also describes being thrown in at the deep end when Chelsea’s Petr Cech was injured in a Champions League semi-final at Atletico Madrid, and keeping the score at 0-0.If you would prefer not to wait 12 months to listen to these extra interviews, it’s time to become a Socio at patreon.com/grahamhunter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two, John Hartson describes his happy days at West Ham – before everything went sour after an infamous incident with Eyal Berkovic. It took a special kind of guy to come back from that low-point.John once set up Craig Bellamy to score the winner against Italy with a pass worthy of Xavi. It gave Wales one of their greatest-ever nights in football.John made the best of his abilities and has fond memories of everywhere he played. But if you forced him to choose, he’s pick playing alongside the likes of Henrik Larsson at Celtic as the highpoint of his career. He describes missing a penalty against Rangers in a cup final defeat at the weekend, and then redeeming himself in midweek with a memorable strike at Liverpool, as the Hoops went on a famous run to the 2003 UEFA Cup final.Enjoy.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Hartson broke up my Spanish detention with a brilliant remotely-recorded Big Interview.Big Bad John was the kind of centre-forward who defenders hated marking. If they were smaller than him, he would just knock ’em over, then pick ’em back up. So John was shocked when Valencia’s Roberto ‘The Mouse’ Ayala gave him his hardest shift in a Celtic jersey.There’s great stuff here about John’s time as an old-school apprentice at Luton, when he looked after his hero Mick Harford’s boots, and there’s chat about losing a European final with Arsenal in agonising circumstances. But he never blamed David Seaman for his horrible mistake.Thanks, big man.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the sad news that Michael Robinson has died, I recorded this about a man I knew well and admired, who helped me during my career here in Spain and who helped shape as generation of broadcasters and journalists, particularly those making their way in a country that was not theirs by birth. He could play a bit, too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s another chance to hear my interview with Matt Le Tissier from season two.Matt was such a naturally gifted performer that he could have joined any team he chose. Instead, he was that rarity in the modern game: a one-club player. Matt describes the utter joy he took in lighting up Southampton’s old ground The Dell with his stunning tricks and goals – this interview is about football elevated to an art form. Listen as he describes netting the last-ever goal at The Dell, a goal that he just knew he was going to score. You’ll also hear about that special season when he enjoyed a telepathic relationship with Danish genius Ronnie Ekelund, his strained relationship with Glenn Hoddle – the only manager he ever swore at, and the grim, but ultimately triumphant campaigns against relegation in which he led by his example of sheer will to win.I guarantee, you will love this interview as much as I did.Graham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jimmy Bullard’s on-field and latterly on-screen personality is that of an easy-going joker, but that is only a conscious extension of his true self. He is also a brilliant soccer analyst, and as a talented midfielder he was frustrated by English football’s failure to adopt the Continental passing game. Roy Hodgson was the only manager who understood him. He’s glad to see things changing, thanks mainly to the influence of Pep.When he joined West Ham the club was full of crazy personalities, not least Paulo Di Canio and John Moncur. Paulo had such charisma that he changed the culture of the entire club.Oh – and there’s brilliant stuff about Soccer AM, and Jimmy gives us an incredible behind-the-scenes insight into creating magical television.EnjoyGraham. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thanks to the wonders of modern telecommunications, I caught up with Jimmy Bullard and found a man who had been well prepared for lockdown. Jimmy needs meditative pursuits – fishing, golf and landscape gardening, and his sense of detail was also applied to his fledgling footballing career to pave the way for successful spells with, notably, Wigan, Fulham and Hull.Jimmy used to peel potatoes and paint ceilings for a living. When he was signed from Gravesend & Northfleet by his boyhood heroes West Ham United, it was real Roy of the Rovers stuff.Jimmy adored Zizou, and loved the arthouse movie Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait, but when he watched the featured game, Real Madrid versus Villarreal, he was keen-eyed enough to recognise the other genius on the pitch that day, Juan Román Riquelme. He became his new hero.Dear friends, I hope that this superb Big Interview helps relieve your isolation.Enjoy.Graham. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Shaun Maloney. For the first time, here’s the full episode.Want to hear what it feels like to set up the winning goal in the FA Cup final? In part two, Shaun recalls Wigan’s famous David v Goliath victory at Wembley over Manchester City in 2013. There’s also a description of Shaun’s sublime goal for Scotland against the Republic of Ireland and a breakdown of his work with Belgium, the No1 ranked side in the world.If you would prefer not to wait 12 months to listen to these extra interviews, it’s time to become a Socio at patreon.com/grahamhunter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last season, our Socios at patreon.com/grahamhunter got an exclusive interview with Shaun Maloney. For the first time, here’s the full episode.Shaun was a superbly gifted player who won trophies with Celtic and Wigan, where he worked under Roberto Martinez, the coach who has now made Shaun part of his staff at the Belgium national team. Oh, and he’s a fellow Aberdonian.He talkks here about how in 2012 he scored to defeat Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United, a victory that galvanised the Latics’ players to attain Premier League survival - winning seven of their last nine games in a heroic run-in.If you would prefer not to wait 12 months to listen to these extra interviews, it’s time to become a Socio at patreon.com/grahamhunter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two, Tony Currie talks more about his lengthy love affair with Sheffield United. But he would sign for their Yorkshire rivals Leeds when most of the talent assembled by Don Revie was still at Elland Road. There was no love lost between Tony and Revie – as England boss the renowned manager didn’t take to him.Tony also shares his thoughts on the current heady days for Chris Wilder’s side. And there’s brilliant chat about his best goal – for Leeds at Arsenal, how he knocked back Manchester United to stay at Bramall Lane, and how he risked life and limb on legendary BBC programme Superstars – they sure don’t make ’em like that anymore!Thanks, Tony.Graham. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tony Currie was one of the ‘Entertainers’ of the 1970s and early 1980s, the ball players of British football who graced an era when men were men and tackles were X-rated.I caught up with Tony, a London boy adopted and beloved by Yorkshire, at his spiritual home of Bramall Lane. Most of his life has been connected to Sheffield United; in addition to eight years as a player, he has been Football in the Community Co-ordinator for more than three decades. A skilful attacking midfielder, he was named the Blades’ Greatest Ever Player.This is a brilliant Big Interview, strewn with legendary names from a glorious time: Ball, Harvey, Greaves, Storey, Giles, Harris, Lorimer… and, of course, Aberdeen great Arthur ‘Bumper’ Graham.Ah, the good old days!Enjoy.Graham. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.