In short
The Commentators’ View segment on Football Daily discusses Thomas Tuchel’s England World Cup squad (26 players), the most controversial omissions (notably Morgan Gibbs-White, Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Harry Maguire), and Tuchel’s rationale about team spirit and selecting “the best team, not the 26 best players.” It also covers club football news (Arsenal title, Pep Guardiola’s departure, Michael Carrick’s permanent Man United job) and a lighter “texting Tielemans” anecdote plus BBC glossary/banter.
Guests
John Murray (BBC correspondent; at Wembley for Tuchel’s squad announcement) and Sammy Mockbell (BBC senior football correspondent; also at Wembley).
Key claims
Tuchel says difficult cuts were made in person; Gibbs-White was close due to form and competition for the “10”/left-wing role, but Rashford and Anthony Gordon are preferred. Ivan Toney’s inclusion is justified by “special skills” (impact as a sub, attention-drawing, world-class penalties). Maguire’s reaction is framed as predictable given Tuchel’s earlier comments and chemistry concerns.
Notable examples
Gibbs-White’s 11 goals since February; Toney’s 32 goals in 32 Saudi appearances; Trent Alexander-Arnold and Cole Palmer left out; Tuchel’s standby/training-camp players (Alex Scott, Rio Nguemoa, Josh King) and medical confidence on John Stones and Tino Livramento.
Written by AI. May contain mistakes. Listen to the episode to check what was said.
Chapters
Tap a time to open that second in VOThomas Tuchel's World Cup Squad Announcement
1:54 to 2:32
Discussion on Tuchel's selection for the World Cup squad of 26.
“Well, I think it's like that all over the country, to be honest with you.”
Analyzing Squad Selections and Omissions
2:32 to 3:40
Debate on the omissions of players like Foden and Gibbs-White from the squad.
“On the face of it, I'm not sure everyone, certainly supporters probably wouldn't agree with me, but I think it's a fairly balanced squad.”
The Impact of Maguire's Reaction
3:40 to 5:59
Exploring the implications of Maguire's statements on team chemistry.
“and so you know I I kind of thought that that would have persuaded Tuchel to include Morgan Gibbs-White.”
Tuchel's Approach to Team Spirit
5:59 to 7:22
Discussion on Tuchel's philosophy regarding team spirit and selection criteria.
“So if we're thinking that, then he must be thinking that.”
Arsenal's Title Win Celebrations
7:22 to 8:02
A listener shares their experience celebrating Arsenal's title victory.
“Players being their best selves and good teammates, etc., etc., etc.”
Reflections on the Season and Managerial Changes
8:02 to 10:00
Analysis of managerial transitions and the season's developments in football.
“voice notes on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 and in a week when Arsenal have won the title, Arsenal fan Joseph in Palmers Green has sent this in.”
Michael Carrick's Journey to Permanent Manager
10:00 to 14:01
Discussion on Carrick's rise to the permanent managerial role at Manchester United.
“But, you know, there's two draws at Everton and Bournemouth in their last two Premier League away matches.”
Tuchel's Well-Deserved Appointment
14:01 to 16:00
Discussing Tuchel's impressive management style and team dynamics.
“which I understand has an option for third, is so well-deserved.”
A Memorable Welcome at Bournemouth
16:00 to 17:44
A humorous recount of a warm welcome and chocolate bar exchanges at Bournemouth.
“Before we hear from Thomas Tuchel, I must just tell you about what happened when I arrived at Bournemouth the other night.”
Tuchel on England Squad Selection
17:44 to 19:16
Tuchel shares insights on selecting the England squad and the challenges faced.
“because if I don't get four fingers, then Ken's in trouble.”
Show all 26 chapters
Difficult Decisions in Squad Selection
19:16 to 21:57
Tuchel elaborates on the tough choices made when finalizing the squad.
“We're trying to build a team, we're trying to select the best team, because what we're trying to achieve can only be achieved as a team.”
Confidence in the World Cup Squad
21:57 to 23:54
Tuchel expresses his confidence in the team's potential for World Cup success.
“Tino Livramento is the one where it gets close.”
Surprising Selections and Team Dynamics
23:54 to 25:08
Discussion on the surprising inclusion of players like Ivan Toney in the squad.
“Did the Ivan Toni selection surprise you as much as it did myself when I'd heard the news?”
Premier League Final Day Preview
26:40 to 28:00
Previewing the crucial final day of the Premier League with key matches.
“If you're looking for a look ahead to the final day of the Premier League, there will be another episode of the Football Daily looking ahead to those Sunday fixtures.”
Tottenham's Challenge Against Everton
28:00 to 29:19
The discussion revolves around Tottenham's upcoming match against Everton and past commentary experiences.
“but the English top flight without Tottenham, yeah, I can't get my head around it.”
Mark Albrighton's Influential Presence
29:20 to 31:06
Insights into Mark Albrighton's impactful text to Juri Tielemans and the atmosphere in the stadium.
“to watch Villa win the European Cup final.”
Emotional Connection with Football
31:07 to 33:06
A touching email from a Villa fan reflects on personal struggles and the joy that football brings.
“Buda Glimpt is the Flash or Thunderbolt in their name because, says Jack, Rio Valicano literally translates as the Thunderbolt from Valakas, which I did not know.”
The TCV Dog Eleven
34:36 to 36:46
Fun segment discussing the Dog Eleven and listener contributions about their dogs.
“If your best finance people are doing expense reports, chasing receipts, or spending time on month-end clothes, It's time to get Brex AF, a gentic finance that eliminates that work before it starts.”
Unintended Pub Names and Glossary Suggestions
36:46 to 39:25
Discussion about unintended pub names and glossary terms from listeners.
“Well, after we heard from Lausanne last week with the ruling.”
Football Commentary Terms and Suggestions
39:25 to 42:03
Exploration of football commentary terms and a call for listener suggestions.
“A few months ago, a Hearts supporting producer managed to wrangle Hibsdit into the football glossary in a dig at local rivals Hibs, who had a habit of losing games late on.”
Listener Suggestions and Commentary
42:03 to 43:00
Listeners share quirky football terms and humorous observations.
“So I'm going to put that out there and see if we get any suggestions from listeners.”
Unintended Commentary and Musical Themes
43:01 to 44:25
Discussing how certain football commentary phrases become popular and amusing stories related to them.
“of further legal action being taken against you.”
Managerless and Caretaker Concepts
44:26 to 45:56
Delving into the terms used in football for managers and the perception of caretaker roles.
“that Nuno Espiritu Santo means that that tune will be going around once again in a lot of people's heads.”
Commentary Language and Age Descriptions
45:57 to 47:29
Exploring why commentators use specific phrases like 'years of age' when describing players.
“And how about this from Julia, who describes herself as a very anxious Spurs fan?”
Grandstand Finish Explained
47:30 to 48:28
Analyzing the term 'grandstand finish' and its origin in commentary.
“you just say he's like 21 years you know 21 old 21 years old he's just 21 yeah 21 he's 21 yeah I like this one as well from Oliver from Wolverhampton hi gents loving the pod.”
Commentators' Influences and Glossary Updates
48:29 to 50:17
Discussing influences from famous commentators and updates to the glossary of terms.
“But, yeah, Brian Moore is the icon that I grew up listening to.”
Transcript
Automatic transcript. May contain errors.0:00This BBC podcast is supported by ads outside the UK.
0:30Ian Dennis:Make your travel dollars work harder. Follow Smart Travel on your favorite podcast app. What's up, y 'all? Summer's got a different tempo. Everything's a little looser, brighter. One plan turns into another. You hear something, you stay a little longer. Next thing you know, you're somewhere you didn't plan to be. It's those in-between moments. That's where the ideas hit. Conversations stretch out. Little memories sneak up on you. Sometimes, it's just about what's in your hand. That color. That chill. The new Tropical Butterfly Refresher from Starbucks. Guava and passion fruit flavors with mango pineapple flavored pearls.
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1:25The Commentator's View on the Football Daily with Alistair Bruce Ball, John Murray and Ian Dennis.
1:33John Murray:Hello, it's the Football Daily. I'm Ian Dennis and this is the Commentator's View where we five live commentators talk about the football, our travels and the words we use in football commentary. And today we're joined by two correspondents because John Murray and Sammy Mockbell are both at Wembley on a day when Thomas Tuchel has announced his World Cup squad of 26. Good afternoon to you both.
1:58Ian Dennis:Hello, Ian. Yes, sitting right next to Sammy here. It is absolutely roasting in London.
2:05John Murray:Suddenly, summer's arrived. Well, I think it's like that all over the country, to be honest with you. It's been a busy week. Arsenal winning the Premier League. Middlesbrough finding themselves in a playoff hokey-cokey with Spygate. Aston Villa winning the Europa League. Manchester City have confirmed Pep Guardiola's departure. Michael Carrick has been confirmed as the permanent Manchester United head coach. And now you two dealing with 26. What are your thoughts on the 26, Sammy? On the face of it, I'm not sure everyone, certainly supporters probably wouldn't agree with me, but I think it's a fairly balanced squad.
2:41People would look at the number 10 issue and say, oh, well, you've left Foden behind, you've left Palmer behind, you've left Morgan Gibbs-Wright behind. But what do you expect him to do? He can't pick all of them. So I guess you can argue the whys and wherefores of who he selected. But, you know, having not taken Cole Palmer or Phil Foden or Morgan Gibbs-White, I just think you just have to, almost, you have to trust his judgment. And I look at that squad, I don't see many holes in it, if I'm honest.
3:11John Murray:I mean, earlier on in the season, he'd said that he wasn't going to take them all, hadn't he, John? but of the ones that have been omitted I do feel probably I feel more sympathy for Morgan Gibbs White than any other individual I think because the form that he's been in
3:26Ian Dennis:yeah and that was an unknown wasn't it because yes he's been involved in the England squad under Thomas Tuchel but it's only since the last squad that he's really stepped on and it's 11 goals isn't it he's scored since February alone and so you know I I kind of thought that that would have persuaded Tuchel to include Morgan Gibbs-White. And, you know, let's mention Jared Bowen as well. And I think he can turn this on its head and look at the players who are selected in that position. So Saka, Eza, Gordon, Madweke and Rashford. And I think whichever the players left out of that list, that would have been the story.
4:09Ian Dennis:You know, as Sammy says, it's going to be rough on someone. It happens to be Palmer and Fordham, who I think it's generally accepted that they have not played at their best this season. And Jared Bowen, who, while he's been a very good squad member for England, hasn't really hit the heights with England yet.
4:26John Murray:Do you think that, and this is to both of you, you can decide who wants to answer it first. Maguire had come out and said he was shocked and he was gutted. Maguire's mum got involved as well. do you think that that reaction has actually possibly Tuchel now thinks well I'm vindicated in my decision in the sense that he was never going to start as a first choice central defender and his mood around the camp if he's not playing might have brought down the chemistry within the group because he's talked a lot hasn't he about the energy and the connection and and everybody having to buy into their roles.
5:06John Murray:Do you think that was a part that he didn't see Maguire as being as an understudy? I think Thomas Tuchel would have looked at the last 24 hours and how Harry Maguire has reacted to his omission from the squad and feel totally justified, if I'm being totally honest. I'm not denying, and no one's denying that Harry Maguire has had an excellent season at Manchester United, certainly since Michael Carrick was appointed manager or interim manager. who obviously we now know he's the permanent manager. But we shouldn't forget that during the last set of internationals when Harry Maguire was given a recall into the squad, Tuchel was clear.
5:45He said that generally there would probably need to be two or three injuries for Harry Maguire to make it. So for then Harry Maguire to come out yesterday confirming that he wasn't in and then making those pointed remarks saying he was absolutely shocked and gutted well you couldn't have been that shocked because he basically told everyone that you weren't going to be in the squad in March because I was in that press conference when he said it so yeah look I get Harry Maguire is disappointed of course he is he would love to have gone to another World Cup but I don't necessarily buy that he was shocked by it because I think all of us sitting around this table now discussing it kind of knew that it was unlikely he was going to be selected.
6:36So if we're thinking that, then he must be thinking that.
6:40Ian Dennis:I feel for Trent Alexander-Arnold as well. And, you know, I think he has every right to be disappointed. But at the same time, you know, the message was so clear from Thomas Tuchel that he wants this squad to be together because they're going to be together for such a long time, or at least that's the goal, to be together for such a long time. that that is absolutely the balance in terms of the spirit. You know, he talked about everyone in this squad being connected, committed to the idea of the team spirit and being unselfish. You know, that's been a message that we've had from Thomas Tuchel throughout the course of the time that he's been in charge.
7:18Ian Dennis:You know, he never misses an opportunity to talk about that. Players being their best selves and good teammates, etc., etc., etc. And also justifies it, Thomas Tuchel, by saying that he is trying to select the best team, not the 26 best players. And in the end, it's a judgment call. He lives and dies by this on the success of that team and the way that he's gone about this. And if things don't go well, people are going to point the finger and say, well, he should have chosen YZ. But, you know, he's the one who's had to make that decision, which he completed this week. and, you know, he lives or dies by it.
7:58John Murray:We'll talk more England in a moment and hear John's chat with Thomas Tuchel, but tcv at bbc.co.uk, voice notes on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 and in a week when Arsenal have won the title, Arsenal fan Joseph in Palmers Green has sent this in. I'm sending this voice message with a slightly hazy head. John, I was listening to your coverage of the Bournemouth-Manchester City game when I could finally compose myself to listen and in 70 minutes decided I had to leave the house, run to get the train, and 20 minutes later I was in Finsbury Park celebrating with what felt like the whole of North London, except the Tottenham fans who must have still been crying.
8:45We then migrated to the Emirates and it felt like a match day, only to be greeted by a huge banner saying party on the streets of London with reference to Manchester City's banner of panic. This was nothing but a party. Incredible scenes that I have never, ever witnessed and ones that I don't think I will ever see again. Anyway, to all those Arsenal fans out there, this should be enjoyed. And this was absolutely wonderful.
9:17Ian Dennis:Well, that's brilliant from Joseph, isn't it? because as I was sitting there commentating on the Bournemouth-Manchester City match, you'll know this, Ian, it's going through my mind thinking that it is entirely possible that Arsenal fans will be listening to us heading to the Emirates, thinking that they might have to get there. So it's brilliant to hear that Joseph was doing exactly that. And I think it's been so fascinating the way that this has unfolded over the course of the last few weeks since the Manchester City-Arsenal match. And at that point, when City went to the top of the table, you know, it felt like, I know Declan Rice didn't say it that way, it's not done and all that, but it did feel as though the tide had turned.
10:01Ian Dennis:But, you know, there's two draws at Everton and Bournemouth in their last two Premier League away matches. That's why we are where we are. And I think that now, as we always suspected would be the case, you know the praise has finally come Arsenal's way over the last few days.
10:18John Murray:And you watched Pep Guardiola's penultimate match in charge of Manchester City a week ago you saw him win his 20th bit of silverware in a decade that he's been in charge but it's now been confirmed that it is a case of adios hasta luego.
10:33Ian Dennis:Yeah well we saw him at the cup final Ian didn't we and the body language we spoke about it there at that stage we didn't know whether he's coming or going as it were staying or going but when we got to Tuesday night at Bournemouth and we know that he's on his way I just thought it was so interesting to see him post-match when that moment came when they'd lost the title I couldn't take my eyes off him his body language the way he was and you know he had I mean he looked as though he was really boiling inside you know the fact that wouldn't it have been great to have finished with the domestic treble and there it was gone it had gone from him and the way that he walked across the pitch.
11:14Ian Dennis:And I thought, well, this is going to be interesting to see what he's like, what he says post-match. In actual fact, by the time he came to us, I was in the press conference, and I know George who interviewed him for us, George Cummins, felt the same way. He was almost serene by the time he got to us and spoke publicly. And then at the end of it, when he got up, I just kept my eyes on him as he disappeared out of the room. And I generally thought to myself, well, that's it. that's the last I am going to see because I'm not covering their match on Sunday that's the last I am going to see of Pep Guardiola as a club manager you know and he's not it is goodbye as manager but it's not actually goodbye because he's got this global ambassador role as well so he's going to continue playing a part for the City group so he's not quite completely going No and I'm sure Enzo Maresco who we understand is going to be City's next manager from from the start of next season.
12:13But, you know, that Pep shadow will be looming large, I'd imagine. And the first set of bad results. Ooh, who knows? I'm only joking, obviously. Obviously.
12:24John Murray:And Sammy is the BBC's senior football correspondent. What a busy day it's been with Michael Carrick, now confirmed and signing that new two-year deal. But he deserves it, doesn't he? Of course he does. When he took the role as interim head coach, following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim, the information at the time, and I think the information a lot of us were getting, was that Manchester United were keeping an open mind with regards to how they may approach the process of the next permanent boss. In that they wanted to take their time, consider all the candidates. but I think in the fullness of time Michael Carrick has absolutely changed their perspective he was the only show in town they've gone from being open-minded into being absolutely closed-minded and having one option because he has done so well and he's probably exceeded every single expectation I think a lot of Man United fans a lot of people connected with the club would have seen Michael Carrick as just a stopgap, I think, just to buy them a little bit of time so they could assess the managerial landscape and make an appointment, probably a high-profile appointment this summer.
13:44But he's superseded everything and every target that I'd imagine the club had set for him, certainly in qualifying for next season's Champions League and in finishing third this season. They could only have ever given it to Michael Carrick and the two-year deal that he signed, which I understand has an option for third, is so well-deserved. I think he's conducted himself brilliantly publicly in his press conferences. He just seems so cool and assured with everything that he does on the touchline and everything that he says in his press conferences. And just a quick word for Steve Holland. Obviously, he's assistant and he's number two.
14:27All three of us would have come across Steve Holland during our time covering England over the years. And I can't stress the importance of his kind of tactical now, from what I understand, in helping Michael Carrick navigate maybe some of those tighter matches. And certainly Steve Holland's in-game tactical approach and decision-making, as I understand it, really, really helped Michael Carrick along the way. So I think it's entirely the correct decision that he is now the full-time Manchester United manager.
14:58Ian Dennis:And it helped Ian, didn't it, right from the outset? to win the Manchester derby. And then I remember I spoke to him after they won at Arsenal. And even then, I was sort of asking the question to him, is it too early to start talking about you getting this job on a permanent basis? Because, I mean, let's not forget, when he was placed in charge again, there was a great deal of talk from many, many observers saying, Well, you know, they'll have to make sure they don't end up going down the same route that they did with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. And that's exactly what's happened.
15:35John Murray:Yeah, I just thought when he brought in Holland, when Sammy's talking about Steve Holland, I thought that was such an astute move. And also Jonathan Woodgate, who was a really good sounding board for him when he was at Middlesbrough and Johnny Evans as well. And I never felt that he was there just to keep the seat warm. I just thought straight away, he's seeing this as a five-month audition to get the job on a full-time basis, and that's the way that it's proved.
16:00Ian Dennis:Before we hear from Thomas Tuchel, I must just tell you about what happened when I arrived at Bournemouth the other night. And you, I guess you will know Ken, who's on the front desk at Bournemouth, do you?
16:12John Murray:I do. I haven't been to Bournemouth this season, nor will I be going there this season. What? But I know Ken very well.
16:18Ian Dennis:anyway I was greeted like royalty it was absolutely extraordinary and I must thank kid he was so so kind and and and helpful and friendly and when you walk in Ken you've probably been there Sammy and seen it as well when you walk in Ken will have a pile of Kit Kats next to his desk so they're two finger Kit Kats so he's got a pile of two finger Kit Kats and he gives everyone a two finger Kit cat anyway i walk in and he gives me this fantastic honestly if it was eddie howe coming back in i couldn't have got a better welcome and anyway he said wait there and he reached down below and he opened a drawer and in the drawer there were four finger kit kats and he he pulled out a four finger kit kat and gave it to me and everyone else standing around waiting thinking what's going on here?
17:11Ian Dennis:Jan Mulby was the next in line. Jan got a two-finger kick. And what also tickled me was Matt Upson was our summariser at the match so I was telling him this story later and he said, oh right, I got a penguin. A penguin. Pick up a penguin. So you got the four-finger treatment. I did. And I must thank Ken and everyone at Bournemouth. And I cannot wait to go again after that.
17:43John Murray:Well, to be honest with you, I can't wait to go again either because if I don't get four fingers, then Ken's in trouble.
17:49Ian Dennis:You'll get a penguin. That's what you'll get. You'll be lucky to get a penguin. You need to take a break. Anyway, let's get back to... Yes, producer Nathan has just pointed out that other chocolate bars, other biscuits are available. So back to the England squad. So we know because we've discussed it. Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold, not included. Ollie Watkins in the squad, as is Ivan Toney, which is an interesting one to discuss as well. And there are also a few players who are going to be traveling with the squad to Florida for their training camp. There are going to be four of them.
18:24Ian Dennis:And Thomas Tuchel told us the identity of three of them. Alex Scott, Rio Nguemoa, and also the Fulham midfielder, Josh King. So, when I spoke to Thomas Tuchel, first of all, I asked him when he actually finalised his squad. Monday, Tuesday. Because it went on for weeks. And no matter how we twisted it and shook it up and tried it, it was always 27. And then we informed the players Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. What was the most difficult decision? I will not tell you. There were a couple of difficult ones, as you can imagine, if you read the list of names and talents that we left out. And telling them was not easy and was kind of painful.
19:12Seeing their reactions, seeing them getting emotional was not easy, but I think it had to be done and it had to be done in person. We're trying to build a team, we're trying to select the best team, because what we're trying to achieve can only be achieved as a team. So this was basically the headline.
19:33Ian Dennis:Was Morgan Gibbs-White a particularly difficult decision because of his form? Yeah, because of his form, and not only because of his form, because he was also in camp with us in September until November. I think not in all of them, but in the ones that he has been with us, he was excellent, he was a good citizen, he was a good teammate. He has the personality to be in a World Cup and to be a supportive teammate. He showed this in the under-21s, so it was a difficult one because he caught form. We had this conversation, he competes maybe on the most difficult position at the moment in English football.
20:16He competes on the 10. Lately, he played from the left wing. And there we said we will keep on going with Marcus Rashford and Anthony Gordon. So he was very, very close to get a spot on the left wing. He's one of the guys high up the list if anything happens. God forbid, we don't want anything to happen. But yeah, it was a difficult one.
Read the full transcript
20:39Ian Dennis:And on that, are the four young players who you're taking in the build-up? Are they effectively on standby? No, they can't be. Only Alex Scott is on the list of 55. The other youngsters are not on the list of 55, so it's impossible. You can only choose from the list of 55 additional players if someone gets injured. Are you taking a risk with anyone? John Stones, for example. Others have had injuries. Liveramento, Gordon. Are any of them a risk? I would not call it a risk. We did a lot of research, we had a lot of feedback, we were in touch with all the medical and physical departments of the clubs.
21:22Thank you to them for sharing with us. I think Rhys James is back and playing for Chelsea, which is a very good sign. John Stones was most of the time available, but not selected, so it was not really an injury issue. Unfortunately, he missed the game in March with us due to an injury. I am willing to take that risk with him because I still think he is a world-class player. I saw him move lately very freely and I have full confidence that he can be a huge asset to our team. Tino Livramento is the one where it gets close. He is now in individual training, but he was so good for us in March. He can play on both sides and he was a big part in the September camp.
22:13We took advantage of the fact that we start very late into the tournament, so I think our first match is in four and a half weeks. That should give us enough time to build Tino up and and be ready for Croatia.
22:26Ian Dennis:You've had to speak a lot about the difficult decisions. Who gave you the best reaction? I will not tell you. I have some favourites. Can you give us a flavour of Ivan Toni's reaction? No, Ivan plays cool all the time. That doesn't change. That's part of his personality. We didn't expect anything else, so he lived up to his reputation. Listen, just finally, when you put the piece of paper down, you put the pen down and you looked at that squad, Did you look at it and think that this is a squad that can win the World Cup? This is a squad with which I want to fight to win the World Cup, yes, 100%.
23:03I had this feeling in Serbia, in the dressing room, and after the match, during the match, I thought, yeah, we're on our way to build something. and then I had the same feeling again in October. Again, we managed to recreate the same spirit in November. That's why the majority of the players come from these camps. This is what we want to recreate. If we are able to recreate this, where it's no doubt and it's our job, then I think we are ready to compete. I think that's the main target. Be there, be exciting, be hungry and be competitive. win our fans, because I believe that they can feel it if we are in the right spirits.
23:50And then let's see what's going to happen.
23:52Ian Dennis:Good luck with it, Thomas. Thank you.
23:54John Murray:So that was John with Thomas Tuchel. Did the Ivan Toni selection surprise you as much as it did myself when I'd heard the news?
24:02Ian Dennis:Yes, would be my answer to that. I think the feeling was that he was kind of out of the picture. But clearly this weight of goals, 32 goals in 32 appearances, But more than that, he justified Ivan Toney's selection ahead of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Danny Welbeck, Dominic Solanke, who's been involved this season as well, by saying that basically they looked at all of the things that they might want from him. what Thomas Tuchel's called his special skills. Things like how useful he is maybe to come on when England are chasing the game. He said he can take attention away from others and also world-class penalty taking.
24:43Ian Dennis:So, yeah, surprised because I think we'd been looking more at the others, hadn't we? And also the fact that there are a couple of backups to Harry Kane. We weren't necessarily expecting that. I think maybe we thought, well, maybe just Olly Watkins in that position, but he's gone with two of them. Yeah, no, I was surprised. Look, he's had an impressive season in Saudi in terms of goal scoring, 32 goals, as you've already pointed out, Denno. But I guess it's how you weight that in comparison to, say, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has scored, I think, 14 or 15 goals in the Premier League this season.
25:19and someone like Danny Welbeck, who's also scored, I think, 14 goals for Brighton this season. I can only suspect that during the last international break, when England faced Uruguay in Japan and Solanke and Calvert-Lewin were in that squad, that Thomas Tuchel saw something in training or in the games that those two played and thought, I'm not quite sure about these two being part of my squad and has obviously now pivoted back to Tony. So it's an interesting call. And the other facts are, actually, I don't know if I'm reading too much into this, is given Ivan Tony has played in Saudi this season and the heat and the conditions over there, I just wonder if him acclimatising to those temperatures and those conditions because it's going to be searing, isn't it, in the States this summer.
26:16I just wonder if that's played a factor as well and that there won't be that assimilation that maybe some of the other players will need heading into the tournament.
26:23John Murray:Well, as a reminder that before the World Cup, we're going to do a Q &A special. So if you do have any questions ahead of the World Cup, please do get in touch, tcv at bbc.co.uk or voice notes on WhatsApp to the Football Daily number, which is 08000 289 369. If you're looking for a look ahead to the final day of the Premier League, there will be another episode of the Football Daily looking ahead to those Sunday fixtures. Bournemouth or Brighton could still end up with Champions League football and one of West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur will be relegated. Our commentary is over the weekend.
26:58John Murray:We've got Dunfermline Celtic on Sports Extra, the Scottish Cup final from three. and then on Sunday a choice of listening as the relegation battle goes to the wire Spurs Everton I'll be joined by Paul Robinson for that four o 'clock kick-off on Five Live and on Sports Extra West Ham against Leeds United but we will go where the story is and we've got additional commentaries on Sports Extra 2 Crystal Palace against the Champions Arsenal and then Brighton and Hove Albion against Manchester United is on Sports Extra 3. What's your gut feeling, Ian, going to Tottenham on Sunday? I've been speaking to a number of Tottenham supporters and they just want it to be over with.
27:43John Murray:The words unbearable spring to mind. There is just part of me that is just struggling to accept any situation where Tottenham Hotspur get relegated. I'd have no affiliation to the club whatsoever. but the English top flight without Tottenham, yeah, I can't get my head around it. And listen, stranger things have happened and obviously West Ham fans I'm sure will hate me for this but I think the intensity and the pressure of getting a result for Tottenham against Everton at the weekend, I just think that will see them over the line.
28:27Ian Dennis:I think you might have a bit of drama on your hands again, Ian. And I know, you know, you've only just got back from Istanbul, haven't you? After what was a terrific commentary. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Mark Albrighton was the perfect man, wasn't he, to have with you. It's a great setting, that stadium as well. And weren't Villa good?
28:45John Murray:Yes, they were. They were excellent. And we likened it in commentary saying that once they'd scored that first goal, there were two wonderful goals just before half-time from Villa. But we'd likened it that they were like Freiburg were a boxer on the ropes and they were just trying to get to half-time. And once that second goal went in, there was no way back. And I've got to say, first time I've worked with Mark, but we had a great 24 hours building up to the game. He thoroughly enjoyed it. He was mobbed wherever he went by the Villa supporters. And he was telling us that his dad was there in 1982 in Rotterdam to watch Villa win the European Cup final.
29:25John Murray:But he texted Juri Tiermans on the morning of the day.
29:29Ian Dennis:This was one of the best pieces of contribution from a summariser I've ever heard. Wow. I'll let you into a little secret. I did message him this morning saying all the best, Juri. Another goal like the one in your last cup final will do. And he messaged back saying no problem.
29:46John Murray:Well, I think it's fair to say he's delivered. Mark had kept that from me, actually. And it was a nice little moment. And then he actually showed me the text as we were doing the commentary. and then I felt bad because I thought I don't want to be reading what else was in the text conversation between the two of them. But there was a couple of emojis in there as well from Uri Tielemans. But it was, yeah, it was a great noise, great stadium. And the Villa supporters, I've got to say, and the Freiburg fans were fantastic because they didn't desert their team at the end. They stayed right till the bitter end.
30:22John Murray:And even afterwards, they even watched all of the celebrations. and we witnessed a little bit of the camaraderie that existed between Freiburg and Villa supporters. So it seemed that there was a really good atmosphere in Istanbul. And I'm sure there will be equally good relations in Leipzig for Crystal Palace against Rayo Vallecano.
30:44Ian Dennis:And Liverpool fan Jack says, I enjoy the symmetry of Crystal Palace and Rayo Vallecano qualifying for the Conference League final. two plucky working class clubs from the southeast of their respective capital cities punching above their weight in the shadow of better known giants cheered on by a fervent local fan base an interesting feature Rio Valicano share with their fellow giant killers Buda Glimpt is the Flash or Thunderbolt in their name because, says Jack, Rio Valicano literally translates as the Thunderbolt from Valakas, which I did not know. Valakas or Viacas? Well, Leon, going back to the old Spanish double L's again.
31:33John Murray:Well, I wonder if Ali listens to this podcast and maybe he might be able to get in the Thunderbolt from Viacas in his commentary. Although maybe we'd hope that he doesn't because that would not bode well for Palace. I've got to just say as well, this was sent to me from George, our producer, Just going back to Villa. Dear TCV, I've been a Villa fan since the early 1990s. I was six weeks old when Peter Wythe scored that goal in Rotterdam and was brought up knowing that team were legends. I've not had the best few years emotionally, losing both parents in a short space of time. A few months after my mum died, Unai Emery walked through the door at Villa and he gave me something to smile about.
32:14John Murray:I walked away from going to games in 2015 as it felt like a chore. I wasn't enjoying it and never returned. Last week, by sheer luck, I was offered a ticket to the Liverpool game and got to see these new legends in all their glory. Wednesday night still hasn't sunk in. In 44 years' time, Ian's commentary from Wednesday night will just be as iconic as those words said by Brian Moore in 1982. I'm not sure about that bit. But anyway, last September, I sent you an email about something for the glossary being removed from Division 1 and signed it off. David, little Ava's uncle. at the time I wasn't in a good place as I'd had a rough few months and you guys reading Little Ava's Uncle gave me something to smile about first time in a long while Little Ava is my sister's two year old dog many thanks David Little Ava's Uncle well David thank you very much for your email and it's nice that we can now put a name to Little Ava's Uncle and I hope that those memories will last a very, very long time for you and I'm sure for every Aston Villa supporter.
33:24Ian Dennis:That's lovely, Ian, isn't it? What a nice email that was. And we've got more dog news coming up very shortly, which is quite exciting. Five Live Sports.
33:36John Murray:So here's the first ball of this series. All the cricket you love. J.R.B.W. Ouch! Lives on BBC Sounds. Smash straight back down the ground, this girl. Hear ball-by-ball coverage of the biggest competitions on the domestic and international circuits. It's a fourth-weekend, and it's the huge one. Jeez, wash. Settle down, tough. Sorry, man. Cricket on 5 Live Sport. Oh, I've living every ball of this. Listen on BBC Sounds.
34:08John Murray:Here's golf legend John Daly. Hell yeah, these wins are piling up faster than my divorces. I only spent on moto, America's social casino. You know, I've won a couple of majors. And on Moto, I've won majors, grands, and epic jackpots on their classic Vegas slots with huge, huge bonus rounds. Moto Casino adds new games and awards players free coins every single day. Grip it and spend it on Moto Casino.
34:27Ian Dennis:Download the Moto Casino app today. Moto Casino is a social casino. What were prohibited? No purchase necessary. Visit Moto.us for more details.
34:33John Murray:Moto Casino. America's social casino. If your best finance people are doing expense reports, chasing receipts, or spending time on month-end clothes, It's time to get Brex AF, a gentic finance that eliminates that work before it starts. Learn more at brex.com slash AF. The commentator's view on the Football Daily. Listen on BBC Sounds.
35:02Ian Dennis:We mentioned dog news. Last week, we also had Billy, the flat-coated cockapoo, become the first member of our TCV Dog 11 after his official work senting up the pitch at Leighton Orient to deter Foxes. Now Harry has sent us an email and says hey my dog Chip should be in your football 11. Eight years old and six years of non-league football from Welling to Sutton to Danson won't find a dog more experienced would be a fantastic fullback runs too much and definitely a captain, he would bark at his whole team. So we've got Billy the winger, who recently recovered from ACL surgery from last week, Chip the fullback, and both have argued that they should be captain.
35:52Ian Dennis:And also, Alex Walton in Earlham has also sent us this.
35:56John Murray:Hi chaps, great podcast. I'm listening to you whilst walking around football pitches throwing a ball for my nine-year-old Border Terrier. I would like to add in to your TCV Dog Eleven, if possible. Born in the summer of 2017, he was given the name of a certain diminutive Portuguese midfielder who signed for my team, Manchester City, the same summer. I give you Bernardo Silva Walton. Like his footballing namesake, he runs and he runs. But unlike his namesake, we hope he will not be leaving us this summer.
36:27Ian Dennis:And he sent in a picture, Alex has, of little Bernardo Silva, who I guess, Ian, will probably also be a contender to be captain of the Dog Eleven. There is every chance, yeah. There's no clash of the commentators today. We're rolling it over to next week, which will be our title decider, Ian. So very excited for that. Why is it a title decider? I'm getting nervous. Well, after we heard from Lausanne last week with the ruling. It was from Bolton. Yeah, well, it looked very official to me.
36:55John Murray:You know what that's like there? That's like all of a sudden this season how Saturday night kick-offs have just become the norm. that the tv schedulers have just they've just sneaked it in under the radar and now all of a sudden it's accepted and and everyone now thinks that it's accepted it's a title race did we not have correspondence on social media from from top cat in kent that said he was he was tv yeah but
37:19Ian Dennis:it's i don't remember that it's a little bit like the um it's a bit like the uh the the southampton ruling we we had we just had to get it done because time was running out so that's well well No, no, no.
37:31John Murray:There was a massive difference between the two because Southampton were bang to rights, not some poxy justice for John campaign. I mean, my word.
37:42Ian Dennis:I think you need to I think you need to get on the phone to Lord Panic. So no clash of the commentators, but we do have a quick unintended pub name from Sport Commentary for you before we head towards the great glossary. So suggestions for this to tcv at bbc.co.uk, WhatsApps to 08000 289 369. Last week we had the relieved Castellanos, the dangerous dribbler and the flying mullet. And now Michael has sent us in this voice note. Hi, TCV team. At the end of Friday's episode, ABB invited listeners to keep the unintended pub names and glossary suggestions coming in, whether you're from Bulgaria, Boston or Bradford.
38:26Well, as a proud Brad Fordian, now living in a small mountain town called Julian, about an hour from San Diego, I am delighted to answer the call. In injury time in the Celtic Hearts title decider, Conor McNamara gave us two pub names in one sentence.
38:40Ian Dennis:Sriracha gets a yellow card. Shanklin gets a yellow card. Everyone's on their feet. The smell of smoke and sulphur in the air. The fire and spittle of the last day of the season at Celtic Park. The smoke and the sulfur and the fire and spittle. I imagine these being very similar pubs of rival teams located just a few miles apart. Style and the feel of both echo each other. Just don't make the mistake of going into the wrong pub with the wrong colors. Anyway, thank you for the pod and all of the commentaries. They truly are highlights of my week. I think that's very, very enjoyable as well. Fire and spittle.
39:19Ian Dennis:but also that must be the first correspondence we've had from Julian and our from San Diego which sounds like an interesting place doesn't it up in the hills so thanks very much to Michael for that
39:30John Murray:and what a game and what a listen that was yeah absolutely well we were at the FA Cup final at the time weren't we when that was unfolding we were indeed yeah and it was a great commentary from Connor and Pat and in fact on that subject Steve in Musselburgh of course near Edinburgh has sent us this.
39:47Ian Dennis:Hi guys. A few months ago, a Hearts supporting producer managed to wrangle Hibsdit into the football glossary in a dig at local rivals Hibs, who had a habit of losing games late on. Given what happened last Saturday, will he request that it be withdrawn from the glossary after Hearts managed to blow the league championship with four minutes to go? That surely has to have been the biggest hibster ever. Hashtag J4J. Justice for John.
40:20John Murray:Thank you very much, Steve. Thank you. And I'll give you an answer to that, Steve. No, it's staying firmly put.
40:30Ian Dennis:So let's move on to the great glossary of football commentary. This is where we build a collection of commentary terms and phrases. So there is a point of discussion, but I think Ian's already decided that one. And this is where we put football exclusive terms into Division 1 and Division 2 for terms used in football commentary, but also in other sports. And last week we put head like a sheriff's badge and head like a biscuit tin into Division 1. But Martin from Los Angeles says, hi there fellas. Love listening to the pod usually sat in the car park that is also known as the Interstate 405 Freeway.
41:07Ian Dennis:I'm originally from the northwest of England and listening to the 50p and biscuit tinhead suggestions for the great glossary Not only made me laugh, but also brought to mind a phrase our coaches used to yell Whilst we were playing back in the mid 80s If someone kicked the ball and it went off sideways or at a funny angle They'd tell you you've got to touch like a cement mixer lad I doubt it'll make the glossary, but I thought I'd throw it out there I occasionally yell it out on the sidelines here in LA when my kids are playing in club soccer, much to everyone's confusion and amusement. And that made me think, Sammy, this is definitely one for the listeners because mentioning a cement mixer made me think of the famous phrase, he couldn't trap a bag of cement.
41:56Ian Dennis:And I think there is quite a range of he couldn't trap whatever it happens to be. So I'm going to put that out there and see if we get any suggestions from listeners. to join in with that one. That seems like a risky game to me, John. Do you think so? Do you think so? Don't worry, they'll be edited.
42:15John Murray:They'll be edited. You'd also say put it in the cement mixer, wouldn't you? Like, get it in the box. Put it in the mixer. Put it in the mixer. You wouldn't say put it in the cement mixer, would you? You'd get it in the mixer, though. In the mixer? Get it in the cement mixer. That's what it surely means. In the cement mixer? Yeah, get it in the mixer. Maybe it does. Tony in Lincolnshire says, regarding strange shaped heads in Sunday league and on the terraces we used to say shed head for a terrible header from a centre back usually a big slow journeyman keep up the good work oh my word I'm not reading that out Tony also says after hair Chapman saying I'm gonna go on strike no next week now that that would cause a kerfuffle wouldn't it if I did that it certainly would yeah there'd be of further legal action being taken against you.
43:05John Murray:Also, Tony says, after Hare Chapman sang ABBA last week, I heard Chris Sutton sing some S Club 7 on the Monday Night Club. Why can't certain clubs just be happy when they're having that relative success? Everybody then, you know, they want to reach for the stars and change style and what have you. And, you know, it's backfired spectacularly for them, hasn't it now? just be happy when they're having that relative success. Everybody then, you know, they want to reach for the stars and change style and what have you. You know, it's reach for the stars and change. Not only have we now got unintended pub names,
43:46Ian Dennis:we've got unintended cameo karaoke. Yeah. And while we're on the musical theme, Ray from Newcastle, Australia has written in, and he says, while on a recent trip to New Caledonia, we bought a colourful sarong which shows the local islands and as you can see and he sent us a picture the island circled is Espiritu Santo and bears a striking resemblance to a certain manager now every time my partner wears it I can't help but burst into the song Nuno Espiritu Santo thanks guys keep up the good work
44:22John Murray:you do know now that the fact that you've just brought up that Nuno Espiritu Santo means that that tune will be going around once again in a lot of people's heads. Returning to the glossary, we also recently added managerless into Division 1. However, Mark in Indonesia says, I'm a big sports fan having grown up in Canada. I'm sure you'll hear from many with North American ties on managerless going into Division 1 because, alas, it must be relegated to Division 2. Baseball also uses the term manager for the head of its game day coaching staff.
44:57Ian Dennis:enjoying the pod thank you and Kyle in Bedford Massachusetts says hello TCV I was enjoying my Saturday morning coffee while listening to the pod when I heard that no other sport has managers and therefore cannot be managerless baseball has always had managers exclamation mark this brought to mind the most notorious manager of my youth the New York Yankees five-time manager Billy Martin He often endeared himself to officials by kicking and throwing dirt on them while shouting expletives. Diego Simeone could do well to study some game film for new levels of housery.
45:34John Murray:And this is nice from Donny in France. Thanks for another great episode. Please could we also add the role that clubs turn to when, managerless, the caretaker manager. Any other walk of life talks about an acting boss, but not football. As a child, I always thought caretaker manager meant the actual caretaker in their brown overalls with pencils sticking out of the top pocket. So, managerless relegated to Division 2? I think so. Caretaker manager?
46:03Ian Dennis:Caretaker manager. Just leave that in Division 1. Caretaker manager. And how about this from Julia, who describes herself as a very anxious Spurs fan? I've been meaning to write to you for ages. This is definitely in Division Two and honestly, it's never bothered me at all until my husband started to complain about it. When someone would say this, I could hear him really moaning and tutting. And it's when the commentator is describing a player and their age is mentioned, they say years of age. Why? this is only used for sports people it's never used for anybody else who's famous like a pop star or a film star so why do commentators say this like uh here's this footballer and he's 23 years of age why don't they just say they're 23 years old any explanation would be greatly appreciated um and then maybe my husband has shut up complaining very good I think of Julia a mention on on Sunday when you're doing the Tottenham match why do people say that Ian I think I'm guilty of doing that you know do you yeah well maybe we all are
47:25John Murray:it's funny isn't it what annoys people I know I've said it and my son said to me he said well why don't you just say he's like 21 years you know 21 old 21 years old he's just 21
47:35Ian Dennis:yeah 21
47:36John Murray:he's 21 yeah
47:37Ian Dennis:I like this one as well from Oliver from Wolverhampton hi gents loving the pod. Been listening since day one. Well done, Oliver. My entry for the glossary comes as I watch Newcastle versus West Ham and I've just seen Castellanos, Castellanos, Castellanos, score a worldie to make it 2-1. At the time of writing, if West Ham got one more, that could set up what I'm sure the commentators would call a grandstand finish. I would imagine this term comes from horse racing to describe a close finish in a race, so it would probably go into Division 2, but happy to defer to your good selves keep up the great work and of course justice for john he's been listening from the start he's he's he's you have to listen to him all the best oliver thank you very much oliver grandstand finish yeah that would be division two i quite like a grandstand finish using a grandstand finish yeah my former self as a newspaper journalist you ever notice those commentary terms working their way into very much so working their way into newspaper copy i used to nick all your phrases all the time just to get me over the word count so no I am I'm all for these yeah we should Ian we should ask Sammy shouldn't we since you've appeared on the commentators view which commentators did you listen to when you were growing up don't say us no no you know you guys are my heroes but I am of the it's up for grabs now Brian Moore era and you know John Watson and I'll tell you who I do like the modern day is I like Sam, Sam Matterface.
49:12I think he's excellent. But, yeah, Brian Moore is the icon that I grew up listening to.
49:19John Murray:You know, you can mention somebody who still works for the BBC if you wish, Sammy. Well, I've only told you. I said he couldn't mention us. He said he couldn't. I've told John numerous times that he's my hero. I don't need a podcast. I'm going to have to get some tissues. I don't need a podcast. He doesn't need a podcast for me to know that. He knows that. What tickled me there, though, is that when you said that you used to listen to us and then you nick all our best lines, do you not do that now? I still do on the sly lads. Well, in summary then, should Hibsit be withdrawn from the glossary?
49:57John Murray:Should it be Hartstitt now? The answer to that is no. Managerless relegated to Division 2. grandstand finish division 2 caretaker manager division 1 and there we have it keep the unintended pub names glossary suggestions and world cup questions coming in to tcv at bbc.co.uk because our world cup Q &A episode will be out soon or you can send us a message or a voice note on whatsapp to 08000 289 Our thanks to John and to Sammy Mockbell for joining us. That's it for this edition of the Football Daily. But for the next episode, we'll be hearing reaction to the departure of Pep Guardiola and the confirmation that Michael Carrick will be staying on at Old Trafford for another two more seasons.
50:52John Murray:Just be happy when they're having that relative success. Everybody then, you know, they want to reach for the stars and change style and what have you. You know, it's reach for the stars and change.
51:06Ian Dennis:Five Live Sports. BBC Women's Football Weekly. The latest news, insights and analysis from across the women's game. Dame Serena Vigman, welcome to the moment. Are we including Dame in your title now? You know how much an honour that is. And this remarkable team! You want to play in a way that they can show their skills. So that's what we're trying to do. Win the World Cup. It's a dream. Listen. With the BBC Sounds app.
51:38John Murray:This weekend, elite athletes from around the world are descending on Las Vegas, where they'll compete with the aid of performance-enhancing drugs. That's right, steroids and growth hormones, drugs that are normally barred in professional sports. I'm Asma Khalid, and I host the Global Story podcast from the BBC. On our show, we'll dive into the world of the first-ever Enhanced Games, also nicknamed the Doping Olympics. For more, listen to the Global Story on BBC.com or wherever you get your podcasts.
From the publisher
John Murray, Ian Dennis & Sami Mokbel react to Thomas Tuchel’s England squad ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. They also have their say on Arsenal winning the Premier League, Manchester City confirming Pep Guardiola’s departure and Manchester United confirming Michael Carrick as head coach. Plus there are additions to the TCV Dog XI and more suggestions for the Great Glossary of Football Commentary. Messages, questions and voicenotes welcome on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369 & emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk
01:05 Initial thoughts on Tuchel’s squad, 06:45 Arsenal fans celebrate title, 08:55 Hasta luego Pep Guardiola, 11:00 Carrick confirmed as United boss, 17:10 Thomas Tuchel interview, 22:35 Ivan Toney a surprise selection? 25:30 5 Live commentaries this weekend, 32:45 An addition to the TCV Dog XI? 35:35 Unintended pub name from sport commentary, 38:20 Great Glossary of Football Commentary, 40:50 Chris Sutton goes all S Club 7…
5 Live / BBC Sounds commentaries: Sat 1500 Dunfermline v Celtic in Scottish Cup Final on Sports Extra, Sun 1600 Spurs v Everton, Sun 1600 West Ham v Leeds on Sports Extra, Sun 1600 Crystal Palace v Arsenal on Sports Extra 2, Sun 1600 Brighton v Man Utd on Sports Extra 3.
Great Glossary of Football Commentary: DIVISION ONE 50p head Agricultural challenge, Back of the net, Back to square one, Backside and elbows, Booked, Bosman, Bullet header, Caretaker manager, Channel of joy, Coupon buster, Cruyff Turn, Cultured/educated left foot, Dead-ball specialist, Draught excluder, Elastico/flip-flap, False nine, Fox in the box, Giving the goalkeeper the eyes, Grub hunter, Head like a biscuit tin, Head like a sheriff’s badge, Head tennis, Hibs it, In a good moment, In behind, Lollipop, Magic of the FA Cup, The Maradona, Off their line, Olimpico, Onion bag, Panenka, Parachute payment, Park the bus, Perfect hat-trick, Postage stamp, Put his cap on it, Rabona, Roy of the Rovers stuff, Schmeichel-style, Scorpion kick, Spursy, Stick it in the mixer, Sweeper keeper, Taking it to the corner flag, Target man, Tiki-taka, Towering header, Trivela, Where the kookaburra sleeps, Where the owl sleeps, Where the spiders sleep. DIVISION TWO 2-0 can be a dangerous score, Asterisk, Back on the grass, Ball stays hit, Banana skin, Beaten all ends up, Blaze over the bar, Business end, Came down with snow on it, Catching practice, Camped in the opposition half, Cauldron atmosphere, Champagne is on ice, Coat is on a shoogly peg, Come back to haunt them, Corridor of uncertainty, Couldn’t sort their feet out, Easy tap-in, Daisy-cutter, Drop zone, Drubbing, First cab off the rank, Giant-killing, Goalkeepers’ Union, Going down in installments, Good leave, Good touch for a big man, Grandstand finish, Half-time in the tie, Half-turn, Has that in his locker, High wide and not very handsome, Hospital pass, Howler, In the dugout, In the hat, In their pocket, Johnny on the spot, Lackadaisical, Leading the line, Leather a shot, Managerless X, Mazy run, Middle of the park, Needed no second invitation, Needing snookers, Nice headache to have, No-look pass, Nutmeg, On the beach, On their bike, One for the cameras, One for the purists, Piledriver*, Played us off the park, Points on the board, Points to the spot, Prawn sandwich brigade, Purple patch, Put their laces through it, Queensbury rules, Reaches for their pocket, Relegation six-pointer, Rolls Royce, Root and branch review, Row Z, Screamer, Seats on the plane, Sent into raptures, Show across the bows, Sleeping giant, Slide-rule pass, Staving off relegation, Steal a march, Sting the palms, Straight in the bread basket, Stramash, Taking one for the team, Telegraphed that pass, Tired legs, That’s great… (football), Thunderous strike, Tricky winger, Turning into a cricket score, Turns on a sixpence, Twisted blood, Walk it in, We’ve got a cup tie on our hands, We were right behind that, Yo-yo club.
