

The Football Ramble Preview Show focuses on upcoming matches and recent European results, with heavy debate about refereeing and team momentum. Key topics include: Nottingham Forest’s 1-0 Europa League win over Aston Villa (clean sheets, unbeaten run, and a contentious Elliot Anderson tackle/red-card debate; Forest’s penalty and Chris Wood’s finishing; VAR described as “so, so bad”); Crystal Palace’s 3-1 Europa Conference League win at Shakhtar Donetsk (South scores quickest goal in competition history; Palace’s efficiency and Glasner’s management); and Premier League survival/positioning—Leeds vs relegated Burnley (Scott Parker leaving after relegation confirmed; assistant Michael “Mike” Jackson takes last four games; Daniel Farke praised for hard-to-beat grind and draws), plus West Ham vs Brentford and Spurs’ injury crisis (Dominic Solanke out for rest of season). Notable guests: none—hosts are Marcus Speller, Pete Donaldson, and David Carledge (no guest interviews).
Written by AI. May contain mistakes.
The speaker shares personal insights on resilience and self-acceptance.
“I tell myself, it's not about comparing.”
The hosts tease upcoming content and soccer discussions.
“a global perspective, and a squad of Americans, including me, on the ground with the U.S.”
The hosts share their thoughts on the upcoming World Cup and weekend matches.
“My legs after cycling for about half an hour.”
The hosts discuss Nottingham Forest's recent match and their performance.
“Let's move on to last night's action in the Europa League.”
The hosts debate the controversial tackle by Elliot Anderson and its implications.
“He's a brilliant footballer, Elliot Anderson.”
The hosts analyze recent incidents involving potential penalties and red cards.
“he nutmegged Morgan Rodgers during the game, which was quite enjoyable.”
Discussion on potential player transfers and team dynamics for the next season.
“He loves a world-class save at the City ground, doesn't he?”
Hosts explore the difference between European competitions and the Premier League.
“I think if they were mid-table or getting in Europe again, I think Gibbs-White might stay, but I think Anderson's probably one who's going to go.”
Discussion on Crystal Palace's chances of winning European competitions and managerial strategies.
“Yeah, because I mean, look, a 3-1, I appreciate it.”
Analysis of Scott Parker's managerial performance and recent departure from Burnley.
“He left the club after the club's relegation was confirmed last week.”
Explore the strange collaboration between Spurs and Peppa Pig and its implications.
“Yeah it was an unwelcome matchup but these contracts get signed and they got you know you use the name or you lose it unfortunately that's how capitalism works yeah well can Mr.”
Discuss Leeds United's current position in the league and their strategies for survival.
“But it does matter for Leeds because Leeds are six points above the relegation zone.”
Examine the potential managerial changes at Leeds and beyond, including Gerrard's future.
“Because any point on the road really is a decent result for anyone in the lower half, generally speaking.”
Analyze Manchester United's performance, the challenges they face, and the board's decisions.
“Take a decent, you know, a decent squad in the championship rather than taking a Premier League side who've just gone down or taking a job like a Premier League side that's always flirting with relegation.”
Preview upcoming matches and discuss key teams' performances and expectations.
“Welcome back to the Football Ramble, everybody.”
Discussing Manchester United's potential for next season and player acquisitions.
“That was literally the things the next match had to do.”
Analyzing the performance and prospects of leading Premier League teams.
“I understand he's already won the league, but they need to go in the transfer market.”
Discussing Liverpool's recent performances and managerial decisions.
“And if Maresca does come in, then I think that they could have a go.”
Recounting a humorous story about Steve Bruce and Sir Alex Ferguson's antics.
“Liverpool, again, they look pretty safe for Champions League next season, which is huge for them because that would have been damning if not.”
Detailing a legendary moment involving Sir Alex Ferguson and a confrontation.
“There was a great time in Galatasaray where Eric decides that he wasn't happy about getting sent off.”
Previewing the upcoming matches including Arsenal vs Fulham.
“You simply can't get away with that sort of behavior nowadays.”
Discussing the impact of European competitions on various teams.
“every game they have to go in, because not only do they have to beat Fulham, you win by two or three, suddenly that goal difference, the confidence is up and so on and so forth.”
Highlighting an upcoming match featuring a 70-year-old goalkeeper.
“And the fans will be going, oh, we won't be at that.”
Explore quirky ideas about goalkeeping and the role of older players in football.
“Genuinely, I think you'd be a better option.”
Introduction to an engaging competition that will determine a spelling debate.
“Let us move on now to announce this afternoon's My Bidyard.”

Get the gist, explore an idea or ask about something said.
On Football Ramble, what are the key points of this episode?
Automatic transcript. May contain errors.
0:00I tell myself, it's not about comparing. But then I start wondering, what can they lift? Are they adding more weight to their barbell than I am? And suddenly, I'm not training. Then I realize, my journey is not theirs. I've earned every step. So I smile. My smile is the shape resilience takes to keep me moving. To put more smiles out into the world, Colgate has supported female athletes for over 50 years with the Colgate Women's Games, the nation's longest-running indoor track and field series for girls and women. Colgate, your smile is your strength.
0:57a global perspective, and a squad of Americans, including me, on the ground with the U.S. national team. Plus, if you want to test your soccer knowledge, try On The Ball. It's a game in the Guardian app, and it's really, really fun. And if you're into stuff like this...
1:10Pete Donaldson: Well, I think the problem is if you give footballers an inch, they will take a mile. Is it too much when it's this close? It's a bit much. It's a bit too real. Maybe you could just talk with a slight delay. Be sure to listen to our Football Weekly podcast for on-the-move expert analysis. The Guardian, bringing you the whole picture on soccer. Search Guardian Soccer for more.
1:57done.
2:01Pete Donaldson: You know what some might say, everybody. Welcome to the Football Amble Preview Show. Big wins for Forest and Palace to Man United host Liverpool this weekend. It's Friday 1st of May. I'm Marcus Speller. I'm Pete Donaldson. And I'm David Carledge.
2:25Pete Donaldson: Hello, everybody. It's a sunny Friday in the kingdom. Pete Donaldson. It is. Can you feel it? Can I feel what? My legs after cycling for about half an hour. Ten quid to hire a bike just to cycle through London for about half an hour. Let's raise the mood. Can you feel the Friday feeling? Well, I had to go to a locksmith's, Marcus, because I left my keys at his locksmith's yesterday and I couldn't drive my car home from the car park. So, yeah. I'm getting that Friday feeling, Marcus. Because it's on you to get me into that Friday feeling. Okay. Well, David, you're looking fabulous, my friend. Thank you.
3:02Pete Donaldson: It's Friday. We have made it once again. And what's more, there is less than six weeks until the start of the World Cup. Oh, come on. It's a six-week holiday. How about that? Is there anything happening around that time, Max? Yes, a lot of football fans are going to be fleeced in North America. And North London? Well, I hope not. because if you don't want to go and spend every single pound you've ever made in North America, there is something that you can do. You can stay closer to home and you can make your summer an absolute belter. You can secure your ticket for the Football Ramble World Cup Watch Along.
3:41Pete Donaldson: We're at 40 Foot Brewery in North London on Wednesday 17th of June for England versus Croatia. We're over three quarters full for the tickets. They've already gone. So don't be a fool. Again, it's a sunny day. it's Friday people are going to be like I tell you what sign me up to that fancy a bit of that I fancy some of the street food that's going and when I say street food I don't mean it's a Fox burger or something yes you know what I mean good stuff some of the my fizzy aunt will be flowing the street beer the street beer yeah straight out the street men and women the street toilets straight out of the drains after a few fizzy aunts everywhere's a street toilet not according to the law right okay so click the link in the show notes.
4:23Pete Donaldson: Grab yourself a ticket and we'll see you for a big old easy on the 17th of June. Providing England win, of course. Yes. I might even join in the easy. Oh! DC. They are. DC's in the house. Jump, jump for joy. Right then, everybody. Let's move on to last night's action in the Europa League. Nottingham Forest, one Aston Villa nil. Good win for Forest. I think that was probably a fair victory, wouldn't you say, David? I think so. Peter Pereira's tricky trees at it again. Yeah. Six clean sheets now. Well, he's got them going, hasn't he? Yeah. I think it's 10 or 11 goals without reply in the last few games as well.
5:00Pete Donaldson: Nine matches unbeaten in all competitions. Yeah. That's amazing. Four wins in a row, including a semi-final first leg in the Europa League. Compared to what they were, he's got them going. He certainly found an angle, hasn't he? And he certainly found an angle in this match, because Villa were playing like thoroughbreds, and Forrest was playing like naughty jackasses. Yes. Kicking lumps out of them. But you know, I have to say he got his tackle strike there. I still fancy Villa across the two legs, but they're going to find it very difficult to score, aren't they at all? In it to win it. In it to win it.
5:29Pete Donaldson: You said that Pereira found an angle. Elliot Anderson found an ankle. Yes, he did. Now, we had a little debate before the show. We did have a little debate. Harder than Speller, come on. Out with it there. We had a street drink, street fight. He's a brilliant footballer, Elliot Anderson. He was at the heartbeat again of that side. He should have been sent off. He shouldn't. How is that not a red card? It's just not a red card. Explain that to me. Watkins knocks the ball on. Elliot rolls over it a bit. Was he out of control? No. So it's a strong yellow, but it's still a yellow. I don't even think his foot's that high as well.
6:04And I've radicalised Pete Donaldson, which is even better. He's roughened me up.
6:10Pete Donaldson: I can't. Honestly, I agree with Emery. He could have broken his ankle with that tackle. David, come on. That was a forceful one. The studs are right up there. You can't be doing that I don't think they were Right up there I don't think they were The studs were flashed Against his ankle The studs were showing Fine I think he's uncontrolled I think the foot went down I don't think it was that high He got a lot of the ball as well He got a little bit of the ball He got the ball He walked away He was with the ball Yeah Come on He's got the ball he says He got an awful lot Possession is nine tenths of the law He got all of Watkins' ankle He doesn't need it You can barely lose these days Get your comments in I thought he was lucky You are getting your comments in you've got an agenda sunshine that was for the listeners Peter because I'm confident they'll back me on this get them in the comments don't allow DC on again he's ruined Pete that's pretty much going to be the crux of it Marcus is the king good who's writing those?
7:05Spells his bot farm well look we have to agree to disagree there but he stayed on the pitch that's not how our relationship has ever worked Marcus what we do is we bring it inside and we think about it for ages we bring it up at really inopportune times throughout the season and then we have a fist fight at the end of it.
7:21Pete Donaldson: 17th of June, 40 foot brewery. If you want to see Pete and I have a big old fight, including headbutts. Ali Anderson, he nutmegged Morgan Rodgers during the game, which was quite enjoyable. That wasn't a red card. No. We're all agreed on that. Cheeky. Too cheeky. Was it a penalty? Second yellow. Was it a penalty? I mean, it was a penalty. Should it have given? Yeah, I think it was pretty relatively straightforward, wasn't it? It was just silly from Dynia. Yeah. That's timing the match as well. You're just like, come on now. I'm sure he's been guilty of something similar before as well. This is not his first brush with doing something a bit ludicrous like that.
7:58Pete Donaldson: I mean, this wasn't as contentious as the other handballs we've seen this week. Everyone keeps... In Europe, that's a thing. In Europe, that's given. A lot of them were like knock-ons where I was like, it's very hard for the player just to quickly move. And the arms were down by the side, but this was just so inexplicably ridiculous. Do you think that's what the referee thought? He was like, oh, in England, they keep going on about it. In Europe, that's not given. So that's why he let Anderson stay on the pitch. Maybe, Marcus. Maybe that's what it is. Although if you do go into that, do remember that Diego Simeone is in Europe as well.
8:29Pete Donaldson: So sometimes, you know, it's not always. But look, Forrest, they won 1-0. They got the penalty. Chris Wood, that's how you take one. That's how you do it. Perfect penalty, that, you know. Into the side of the... That hard as well. Brilliant. Brilliant. You can do that 1-1 leg as well. Yeah, against Emi Martinez as well. Who needs excellence here. He loves a world-class save at the City ground, doesn't he? Yeah. It's fair to say. That was a fantastic bit of work from him. Yeah, but I mean, look, Forrest, they take the lead. Unai Emery was fuming after the game. Fantastic. The referee, fantastic.
8:59Pete Donaldson: But the VAR is so, so bad. It's a clear red card. It's a huge mistake. A huge mistake. Well, we've talked about that. I just wanted to add that Unai Emery's on my side, but of course he would be. David, Elliot Anderson, fabulous player, obviously. do you think that he will be a Forest player next season no I don't think so right he's just going to stay with England is that what it is do you know how many stories there's going to be if he does go to the World Cup which likely they will oh he's going to go to the World Cup there'll be so many stories of Manning Aitah players or Liverpool players or City players oh yeah oh Elliot Anderson's hanging out with the City players that's right it's going to be like that but yeah absolutely fantastic player and yes he needs to be playing in the Champions League what is it like about Anderson because a lot of people talk about him and yet he's one of those players he's eye-catching but he's not flashy no he's not and i think i think that's what's part of his appeal i think the fact that he does the basics very very well and then he's got a lot of energy a lot of edge to him as well i think there's a quite a few flat midfields around and i think they're looking for a bit of inspiration and a bit of dynamism in there and gibbs white i mean again he was good last night do you think it's in terms of england too little too late perhaps and obviously england in those areas have got a lot of options.
10:12Yeah, I was going to say, I feel like he's in a straight runoff with, funnily enough, we said Morgan Rodgers as well, you know, I can't see Gibbs White and Rodgers going for some reason. With Rodgers'
10:23Pete Donaldson: relative longevity, if you see what I mean, under Tuchel in the squad. And I think he might say Rodgers can potentially play as a striker as well, or as a second striker, so he's got another kind of utilisation there that they could bring him in for. So I think Rodgers might get the knock, but look, Gibbs White, absolutely fantastic player. This has taken nothing, just because he doesn't make the England squad, it's not to say he's any less of a player or anything. And I think he'll be looking for a move as well. And again, it's just purely due to Forrest's predicament, just where they are. I think if they were mid-table or getting in Europe again, I think Gibbs-White might stay, but I think Anderson's probably one who's going to go.
10:54Pete Donaldson: I mean, they could cash in on him. But I was going to ask you about that, the sort of predicament. I mean, Pereira, as we see, is turning it round. I don't think too many people would have Forrest to be relegated now. They are... They could have Champions League football next season, because obviously if they win the Europa League, that'll be the case. But what has Pereira done, really, since he's gone in there? Because clearly when you say, well, do the basics and all that, that's clearly what Sean Dyche would have tried. Sean Dyche is a more limited manager than you'd say, than Pereira. Not that Pereira has a glowing season.
11:25He's not a visionary or anything like that. But what do you think it is? He brings in different ideas. He'll bring in a different idea purely because of that kind of continental European thing as well, but perhaps Dyche can't. The main thing he's done is build them from the back. Funnily enough, probably something that Dyche might have done. Very tight, cohesive unit now. It was very, very... I mean, admittedly, Buendeiro thought it was terrible yesterday. Rodgers didn't really get into the game, but Forrest made it very, very difficult with the way that they set up in terms of their shape and just working as a unit together.
11:53And sometimes that can be quite hard to get as a manager. Get everybody on the same page, get everybody just going in the same direction. And they've done that brilliantly.
12:00Pete Donaldson: Yeah. They're off to Chelsea on Sunday. The realities of the Premier League. They need a result though, Peter. Yeah, I mean... And they'll likely get one at that absolutely crazy club at this moment in time. Yeah, but he's gone though. They fancy it now, Chelsea, do they not? They're in the final of it. It would be classic Chelsea for them to win the FA Cup. And it doesn't take much and they end the season with a trophy. But they need to do it though, Forrest, because it is only five points between them and Spurs. As I say, I think most people probably think Forrest will be okay, but they have to go away to Chelsea on Sunday, which will be a fascinating game.
12:38Pete Donaldson: Elsewhere in Europe last night, we go down to the Europa Conference League. Shakhtar Donetsk 1, Crystal Palace 3. Oh, it's much better at Palace these days, isn't it? Considering the doom and gloom a few months ago. It's calmed down a little bit, certainly. But then you do sort of fear the summer fire sale that always seems to happen. Oh, let them enjoy this, Peter! I know they can't enjoy it, but I'm just saying he has tidied things up. But I do think that, you know... Oh, they're all going. They're all going. Cambo will be off. Camadre will be off. Yeah, but leave with a trophy and finally Europa League football next season.
13:12Another trophy, by the way.
13:13Pete Donaldson: Yeah, absolutely, yeah. I mean, they were favourites for this competition going into it. And as we say, where the Premier League, where you really see contrast to European football is not in the Champions League. Early rounds, yes, and a lot of teams go through. But that's where you realise actually the elite of European football tends to be on the continent with a few clubs. I appreciate Guardiola's Man City and Klopp's Liverpool but if you see what I mean whereas the quality of the Premier League is in that almost mid-pack whereas in Europe it's always going to be Real Madrid, Barcelona maybe once in a while Atletico Madrid, Germany obvious France obvious Scotland Generous Italy well not obvious this season is it?
13:58Pete Donaldson: No it's not obvious Come on Come on The aberration that proved the point yes I don't think Scottish sides are bothering finals of European competitions too much these days, but Italy again, like sort of Inter usually and it was the Premier League you see that quality, don't you, in that the Europa League team should always go far, but really the Europa Conference League, we've said it so many times before, Brasel said it after West Ham won the competition, we thought it was an unromantic opinion, which kind of is in one sense, but you realise the realities of it Palace should really stroll to this trophy.
14:35Pete Donaldson: Yeah, because I mean, look, a 3-1, I appreciate it. They started the game strolling, didn't they? Well, I mean, yeah, South scores the quickest goal in the competition's history. But 3-1 away from home, I appreciate that the game is played in Krakow, obviously due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, so it's not really a home tie for Shakhtar, but it's a far cry for obvious reasons, a far cry for the Shakhtar sides of yesteryear. But Palace will surely go on and win this competition, David, you think? Absolutely. Two games away from a third trophy in two seasons. that's wild isn't it it's incredible it is incredible and they've never won one in the history before just absolutely magnificent and it is important to say that because I don't I don't want to sort of take the romance out of it all because you know you see those Palace fans when they're away trips like in away to Fiorentina and so on it's brilliant it's what it's all about ultimately but you have to match that with the riches and the quality well because of the riches of the Premier League you know when they go into these games but it's not always a given because was it Leicester City who were in the Europa Conference League before they you know obviously semi-final but they didn't go on and win it so but yeah the way Glasner has managed to turn things around in recent months I mean that January transfer window seems a long time ago now he had his rant and he's back and forth with the club and what have you and I think I thought I was pretty much on his side with that I thought he was rightly you know he was kind of like look I've done a brilliant job here so support me a little bit further and I can do more they didn't really give him anything and he's still done this I mean last night was funny as well I think it was like 29-30 % possession but they got 5 big chances from 9 shots so like they're taking their opportunities when they're getting them you know they're creating that and that's the style that he's given them and he understands their limitations but he's also extracting so much more out of certain players he's honestly he can walk into a lot of jobs this summer his stock is so high well and and especially if they won that trophy as well I mean do you think he would stay in the Premier League?
16:31Pete Donaldson: Or is it Germany where he wants to go back to? I think he'd love to stay in the Premier League. I'm not too sure what job would come up, though. I mean, Manchester United. I mean, yeah, don't get me wrong. I think they've... Although, do they want to go back to the back three? No, we've done this before. Yeah, yeah, let's not go there again. No, look, I think a lot of Premier League clubs will be very, very lucky to have them. But, yeah, I mean, Germany's always there. Would it be outrageous to say Chelsea? I was thinking that, yeah. I mean, He'd be even more constrained financially. Yeah, I mean, it's funny.
17:03Pete Donaldson: I appreciate your reaction. It's like, yeah, if you want. I mean, if he's a bit of a sadist. You know what I mean? Yeah, exactly. He wants another row with hierarchy over transfers. If that's what he wants. But yeah, I don't. And look, we discussed this on a mailbag. I don't envision a Chelsea job being good for any manager. Not anybody. Yeah, exactly. Other than John Terry. Yeah, yes. That's good, JT. Look he can command A lot of jobs I think it'll be interesting To see where he goes I hope he gets a good job Because I think he's Absolutely fantastic coach Yeah Indeed Mention for Jürgen Strand-Larsen Who scored his first goal In Europe I want that to work Well do you know what I just want that to work That was a lot It was very composed That was a good pass From Kamada Kamada's Yes It was imperious He's a free agent At the end of the season And he's been one of Palace The best players this season All across the course of it As well So yeah He's getting on a bit But I think he'll make A pretty decent move Why do you want Stran Larsson to work?
17:59Well, I mean, obviously, Newcastle won for a little while and I just felt that with Palace it was going to work, really. But it's not worked quite as well as I thought it was going to do. But I just think to have that kind of focal point, I think he's a really tidy striker.
18:14Pete Donaldson: When Mateta moves in the summer, he'll have more room to do his stuff. I mean, he's a good player. I understand why teams were coveting him. Some of the price tags were rather high, but that's what you've got to pay during the season in the Premier League. He was scoring goals. He came in the league, you know, from a European league, and he started scoring goals pretty much straight away. He works very, very hard. He's a good hold-up man. He's better than Liam De Lape. He's a lot better than Liam De Lape. Oh, poor old Liam. Poor old Liam. I'm just saying, but the way that people talk about Stran Larsson is very different to how they talk about Liam De Lape, and Liam De Lape has underwhelmed his new club, whereas there's a bit more hope, I think, with Stran Larsson.
18:50Yeah, yeah.
18:51Pete Donaldson: I find it funny that Stran Larsson is 26. I always think he's a little bit younger. 26 Norway caps in any other era he'd have about 50 oh yeah absolutely crazy crazy gentlemen before we go for a break I want to talk about a former Crystal Palace manager Ian Holloway do it he's now in charge of Swindon Town of course he's been given a two match touchline ban for using offensive insulting or abusive language that comes two weeks after Holloway said he'd banned himself from swearing he just no he didn't ban himself he was bottling it up. And he goes, and off he goes. Yeah, it's the second time this season he's been sent off.
19:29Pete Donaldson: So little Ian Holloway update for you there, everybody. He can do sign language, can't he? Do you know what? Could he not just use that? He's not going to get in trouble for that, is he? Yeah, I mean, that's, I don't think that's the American or European sign language official. Maybe it was the sign language that got him in trouble. I find Ian Holloway quite an interesting bloke. I understand he's a bit of a madhead as well, but I remember when he was doing the rounds on a couple of podcasts and he was chatting about family and so on and whatnot and I thought that very interesting bloke actually very sweet man yeah yeah yeah he's one of those fellas who does the circuit yeah is a meme for everybody you know Rumble enjoyed him over the years but he's never outstayed his welcome necessarily yes much like in jobs much like in jobs he'll always pop off absolutely love the man yeah alright coming up after this oh Scott Parker He's left Burnley.
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22:22Immersing yourself in all things soccer ahead of this summer's World Cup? I'm Alex Abnos, senior sports editor from The Guardian. And whether you're a soccer beginner or you know the game inside and out, we've got you covered. Read, watch, and listen as our journalists connect the dots between the games, the cultures, and this political moment. We'll have daily newsletters throughout the tournament, reporters on the ground with all the big teams, and the legendary Football Weekly podcast, The Guardian. Bringing you the whole picture on soccer. Search Guardian Soccer for more. At Darvin, you'll find beautiful name brand furniture for every room in your home.
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23:26That'll be cleaned up immediately Nothing more Just a hand in the face Little facial
23:33Pete Donaldson: Well back to the football ramble everybody We've got a bit of Friday Night Football PT 8pm kick off Leeds United host Already relegated Burnley And they are without Scott Parker Yes A 1970 man has left The opportunity to manage in the 1970s of fixtures Leeds-Burnley it just feels like one of those kind of matches you'd see do you think the 70s yeah Burnley's heyday was the what would it be the 50s early 50s you know if you want to be and Parker we often liken him to an RF pilot yeah alright fine the early 50s that was still fresh in the memory rationing the post-war ration era Scott Parker there you go in the dugout for Leeds vs.
24:18Burnley
24:19Pete Donaldson: Yeah, but he's not going to be. He left the club after the club's relegation was confirmed last week. Shell shock, I'll leave. Assistant manager, Mike, let's call him by his full name, Michael Jackson, will take charge of the side for the last four games of the season. Don't worry, I'm not going to do it. I'm not going to bite. Do it. No, no. Marcus, you know you want to do it. No. Right, you can have three puns, but you do have to stand up and do a little Michael Jackson flourish. Yeah, that could be clipped. I'm not going to bite. I brought producer Bruno in to do the face that we've been talking about.
24:52So I think you should do the Michael Jackson thing. It's snackable content.
24:55Pete Donaldson: An impression of Gabriel Jesus is fine. Right. It's absolutely fine. Do an impression of assistant manager Mike Jackson. 17th of June. Right. There'll be a stage. Okay, all right. 40 foot brewery in North London. There'll be a stage. Did you just say it? There'll be a stage, yeah. Doesn't want the views. No, it's the fact you want to do it on a stage. I'm just saying, I'm a man for the big stage. Hey, come on. What? Easy. Michael Jackson. Taking charge. Were you surprised that Scott Parker left David? No no I mean the timing's a bit strange It is a bit strange But he should have gone earlier He's not very good is he?
25:28In the Premier League In the Premier League He's great in the Championship I mean Most people will be great in the Championship When you're at a club that probably has the best squad And usually the third highest budget Fine Which are the teams where you always end up at
25:39Pete Donaldson: I take your point there But you've still got to get them out of the league And it's a grind in the Championship Yeah yeah So you have to give credit Football's a grind To watch as well I'm getting nothing from you No no It's one win in 25 You could have sent me And Donaldson in We would have carved That one win in 25 In the Premier League How am I Honestly Oh wouldn't we have fun Come on man Honestly The loving for Parker Just always makes me laugh I'm sure he's a lovely guy I'm sure he really really is And like you say Yes that's it He's a handsome chap Worked hard as a player Yeah exactly Broke his teeth at Newcastle Been at a few London clubs So he's the He's the darling of the Southern media And everything like that The Southern media love it Seriously It's true Everyone's down here He's a good looking fella Don't you start Donaldson Not one of us now We're ganging up on him He's a good looking fella He dresses well He probably smells really nice He's got a lovely little charm to him In the press room And everything like that I can see why people like him But he's not a Premier League manager He's a very good championship manager There we go There we are So we're agreed then I know But I think a lot of smoke's Blowing up his arse though Right Just let it go And now Michael Jackson Is asking the team To change their ways does Parker need to look at the man in the mirror he loves him he loves him in the mirror but I think with Michael Jackson used to be manager in the 23s Scott Parker though why so if they let him have that time in the Premier League which they have and then they're relegated and I appreciate he's not been sacked well that's what the reports are saying surely they should have talked him round to stay on for one more season because get him get them back up and then say actually maybe we part it's not long term though is it Like you kind of...
27:14I know, but you don't want to manage it.
27:16Pete Donaldson: But for a club the size of Burnley, who have been in the Premier League a lot in recent seasons, you've just got to get straight back up. But I mean, you would say these days, because of, you know, Vincent Kompany being there, and obviously the type of football he played, the type of football Parker played, it is an attractive job, all things considered. I wonder where Parker goes now. Does he get a move to one of Europe's elites? Well, if Spurs go down, I'm sure he'll fancy that. That's how it would suit Tick so many boxes For the heart It's unbelievable Do you know what That is a fair point That knows how to get out Of the championship Knows the club Knows the southern media Imagine him swanning around In that big stadium With these thousand pound Cardigans on I think Roberto De Zorbi Might have something to say About it Little Peppa Pig Pin badge Set off the thing What is that about Spurs and the Peppa Pig I think it's probably Something they had signed You know These sort of like meetings of brands kind of happen all the time but why release that information now?
28:16I know exactly when you're in the trenches I don't think there's enough money
28:19Pete Donaldson: sloshing around that you have to release it now Think of the crossovers like Arsenal do everyone's like oh they've got too much gear but they've got the added ass originals all that kind of stuff haha who likes Peppa Pig? Yeah it was an unwelcome matchup but these contracts get signed and they got you know you use the name or you lose it unfortunately that's how capitalism works yeah well can Mr. Jackson and get a result at Leeds United. Obviously, it doesn't really matter that much, of course. But it does matter for Leeds because Leeds are six points above the relegation zone. This is exactly the type of fixture Leeds want.
28:53Pete Donaldson: On a Friday night at Ellen Road, your six points clear, they win this, my goodness. Yes, the other teams below them will have a game in hand, of course. That will be one hell of a Friday night in Leeds if they can win and if they win convincingly as well. Yeah, absolutely. Good weather today as well. I'll drink and I'll do. heading at Ellen Drogge for this. Come on. I must say, come on, let's see if there's any tickets left. There won't be. Can we get one off the towel? I fancy a bit of that. Yeah, so, so, obviously, it's not going well for Parker, because he's, because he's gone. 15 % win review in the Premier League.
29:29Pete Donaldson: But, Farker, though, with his win percentage in the Premier League, and so on, you, I mean, you have to be pleased for Daniel Farker, because, and a bit like Scott Parker, everyone was saying, even quite into this season, he's not, he's not a Premier League manager. Now, I understand that they may well reassess things in the summer, whatever happens at Leeds United, because as they're, you know, you've got to do due diligence and so on and so forth. But, you know, I've said it once, I've said it a million times before, I just didn't see Leeds doing this. No, I didn't either. I thought Fark was an absolute goner, maybe one game away.
30:00And we've chatted about this before and said that I think there was a few little turning points there. And he acknowledged that the system needed to change. He was happy to change. And a lot of managers don't these days. They're very stuck in their ways. And we've seen certain managers go this season as well because they were stuck in their ways and they wouldn't change. He did so. And yeah, they deserve the form they're in.
30:19Pete Donaldson: Yeah, but what he's done is they're just hard to beat. And they've got a lot of draws. Only Bournemouth have drawn more games than them in the league this season. And just turning those losses, particularly away from home, into draws. You get yourself the nil-nil or the one-all or whatever. And that just, you pick up the odd point here and there where other teams around you are not doing that. It's so, so crucial that. I remember watching them away to Brentford, and this was a little while ago, Brentford score, and they managed to get out of there with a point. And they score, they take their only chance.
30:49Pete Donaldson: And it's those sort of margins. I remember watching that game going, they have a real chance of staying up. Because to dig out a result there, not that it was, you know, Brentford were bombarding them or anything, but it was just one of those games where they're playing an established Premier League side, who are having a really good season, obviously, Brentford. And they get out of there with a draw. It's the kind of thing the away fans go, they love it. They're like, bloody hell. Because any point on the road really is a decent result for anyone in the lower half, generally speaking. Those kind of results with the Leeds, that kind of steely determination, we're never going to roll over.
31:20You get the buy-in from the players. Yeah, totally. And then everything builds.
31:22Pete Donaldson: Because you quite literally are seeing the results. They've only won nine games this season out of 34. But again, obviously, the teams around them, you know, sort of similar record or worse, with the exception of Forest. But it is just that. It's the, you know, it is that. you've got to grind it out and you have to say they've done that and their home form they've made it a fortress like I said said this for ages now they relish every game yeah whereas other teams are like oh blimey we've got them away we've got Leeds they go into every game going we're having this yeah I never want them to leave Elendorud I know yeah it's a lovely stadium and just it's the one of the it's the sort of big ground in England that I've never never been to oh really well the Hill Dickinson as well but you know what I mean I've been to the stadium like David, but yeah, Ellen Road, what a famous ground.
32:12Pete Donaldson: Oh, it'll be rocking tonight as you would imagine. I mean, a win would take them to 43 points. 42 points is the most a team has ever been relegated with and that was such a long time ago. So they win tonight, surely. They've got a little bit of a funny history of Burnley though. They don't score a lot and they're a bit, I wouldn't say a bogey team, but they do find it difficult. But hit them on the break and have a lovely time, guys. Scott Parker's gone. Steven Gerrard being tipped. It says here. And he's linked with Bristol City as well. What's the Bristol City link there? What's that? Have they found a big pot of money?
32:48Pete Donaldson: Or was there a negotiation tactic? Have you not made enough from the Middle East? Right, yeah. Okay, how much is enough, Steven? Come on. Bristol City. Well, you wonder though with Gerrard, because you would think that he has ambitions to continue as a manager, right? He seems to be quite enjoying his time on TNT though. Well, he does and that's fine but surely he has ambitions to, I mean, ultimately get the Liverpool job but he's managed Aston Villa. It didn't go well, clearly. Managed Rangers where he was really good. You know, it would be, I think it would just be quite odd that if you did a couple of stints at those massive clubs whether it's gone good or bad and then you kind of go, ah, you know, that'll do me.
33:24Pete Donaldson: It clearly has ambitions to be a manager so he's now got to think, well, how can I basically rebuild the reputation in this country? Take the right championship job. Look at Lampard. I'm as loathed as I am to kind of bring in Lampard's name immediately after Gerrard's. But like, it's there. Take a decent, you know, a decent squad in the championship rather than taking a Premier League side who've just gone down or taking a job like a Premier League side that's always flirting with relegation. That's my advice to multi-millionaire Stephen Gerrard. No, but when Lampard was offered the Norwich City job and they were, you know, on their way down in the Premier League and he was just like, no no no I'm not doing that it was wise to turn that down I agree because what's the point I'd be looking at the teams who perhaps don't make the playoffs or lose in the playoffs I think that kind of level is a nice little one because they'll go right we want to build for next season and such like that so we'll see though yeah I think Burnley wouldn't be a bad one but there we are elsewhere the battle for survival in the Premier League West Ham travel to Brentford on Saturday they get five points clear of Spurs with a win Brentford of course playing for those European spots currently on 48 points so they're safe from relegation much like Chelsea who are also on 48 points that would be a fascinating game but Spurs don't play Aston Villa until late on Sunday you don't like at this point in the season it's not nice to have a really lit fixture when obviously West Ham have played so much earlier than you yeah I don't know what the reason for that is obviously Villa playing on the Sunday because they played it's fun Marcus they are trying to put the willies up Spurs aren't they yeah just we're going to wait make you wait a few more hours it's not quite a super Sunday fixture that one at 4.30 with the West Ham one like Nuno's first home game was Brentford beating beating West Ham at home seems like light years away it seems like light years away but so hopefully that bit of grit of him sort of you know because you join a new club and you're like I'm really looking forward to sort of performing at the home ground in front of all the fans and then getting beaten by Burnley like yeah I feel a bit of grit will turn into a pearl over the months well maybe maybe it has already I don't know oh Spurs it's been announced that Dominic Solanke will miss the rest of the season with a hamstring injury you feel for him it is the least surprising news coming out of Spurs they are just they're just dropping like flies I mean even when they get a result flies don't have hamstrings no or ACLs should they play a fly up front is that what you're saying look better than Richarlison or not I don't know aye come on come on how dare you well it is it's going to be Richarlison though isn't it surely yeah unless he's just a tell or something but I mean with Spurs like Solanke and Simmonds going out when they just got they get the result there's a little bit of something I think the Simmons it's mad the injuries the Simmons wants a big big blow he was the one player who looked up for creating something yeah well yeah yeah I mean we saw that goal against Brighton blah blah blah as you say but yeah so they I mean playing Villa as well I suppose it suits Spurs to try and get to have a tiny teensy positive spin it suits them ever so slightly that Forrest beat Villa because Villa have got to throw everything at Forrest there's going to be big changes in the Villa team as well I know what Emery's like and he wants to win European competition so I think the entire might be about like 9 or 10 changes or something like that indeed because you would think Villa with 8 points above Brighton in the table in 5th they will finish in the top 5 Aston Villa in the Premier League this season surely so it is all eyes on that Europa League because Unai Emery how long has it been since he's won the Europa League he misses it he misses it exactly
36:57Pete Donaldson: so that would be only thing that Spurs might be hoping for. But yeah, 7pm on a Sunday, we'll all be tuning in for that one. Alright, coming up after this, a 70-year-old goalkeeper gets ready to play in Spain.
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39:23Pete Donaldson: Welcome back to the Football Ramble, everybody. Right, Sunday at 3.30. Manchester United host a Liverpool. It's one of those matches you'd see in the 70s, isn't it? Fair, fair. 80s, 90s, noughties. 80s, 90s, noughties. Teenies, whatever they're called. But a win would guarantee Champions League football next season for a Manchester United. Yeah. Yeah. Who saw this coming? Not me. Not after that Grimsby Town exit. You keep saying that people have stopped mentioning Grimsby time, but you mention it on every show. Yeah, it's a shame. It's a shame. I just want to give the Grims, the Brothers Grim, the...
40:01Lest we forget. Right, okay, nice.
40:04Pete Donaldson: It's just a reminder that I think Carrick's done a good job. In Grimsby circumstances. Exactly, Peter. But the board are interviewing other candidates, so it's very much up in the air whether he will be in the job next season or not. But I think that there's a worry or a concern that it might be a bit of an Ole Gunnar Solskjaer kind of affair with Carrick. He had another season in him, didn't he? No, he did. But as in a bit sort of flash of the pan, as in in these circumstances, you came in when the squad was at its lowest end. You know, you had a dreadful act to follow. And returned it to mean where they should really be with that amount of investment, one would suggest.
40:44Pete Donaldson: Yeah, so when you have a player like Bruno Fernandes at your disposal and you actually play him where he should be played, you know, that fact that he's won assists away for equaling the record of assists in the Premier League season and he's done that while playing a part of the season under Ruben Ambrick. Sort out a goalkeeper. Yeah, indeed, yeah. So there were obvious basic things to do and it was a case of do the basics and you're good enough to finish possibly third, maybe fourth, even fifth in the Premier League table. Are they world-class basics, Marcus? Did he get them playing some world-class basics?
41:19Pete Donaldson: Do you know what, Peter? As loads of them say, I think he has. I think he has. I think he has. He's a world-class basicsman. It's indeed. And it's very high performance. Well, it was very low performance. I think it's reasonably high performance at Manchester United. Top five performance. Yes, exactly. But if you're the board at Manchester United, you're thinking to yourself, again, once it all settles down, is this... Because if you've got a dreadful act to follow and all you've got to do is not be a miserable sod and point out this is the worst match team of all time. Just get rid of that system.
41:50That's all somebody had to do. And have no right in your contract to demand transfers. Do you know what I mean? Yeah. I think you had two things. Get rid of a back three and play Cobby. That was literally the things the next match had to do.
42:04Pete Donaldson: It's mad. Sometimes I used to think years and years ago when fans would complain about stuff, I used to always sort of think, but you can't know more than the manager. and as I say that was years ago I used to think that literally this has been crying out for it so he comes along finds a load of round pegs and sticks them in round holes it's as simple as that but can he can he kick on the following season that's the thing when you've got the transfer budget when it's like what's your vision what's your thing and that's what the club are weighing up at the moment and they'll always have suitors they manage to deny it for crying out loud but they're going to get themselves into Champions League football next season which is huge for them we saw the players that they can attract without any kind of European football there's a reason why Buma goes there and Kunia and so on who can they attract when they're back in the Champions League but yeah next season I mean Mason Mount has said he thinks he can win the Premier League with Manchester United 10 starts 3 goals you'll be lucky you'll be lucky still to be there 10 starts he gets a medal you know 10 improvements is all you need but if you think about Manchester United got one but if you are though this is the thing with Manchester United this season all jokes aside who this season has been scintillating in the Premier League which team like Arsenal are top of the league they're three points clear okay Bansett you've got a game in hand and Arsenal are criticised every single time they take to the field and they are top of the league and have been well for most of the season appreciate it's been an unwatchable league to their own it's not been it's funny so look at the teams around the top of the table right so obviously Villa are not Villa aren't going to win the Premier League next season I don't think so okay Liverpool have got a lot to do They're probably going to stick with Arna Slott.
43:41Pete Donaldson: I understand he's already won the league, but they need to go in the transfer market. And, you know, there's question marks over Liverpool, right? It's not unthinkable to think that by October, Arna Slott's job's maybe untenable. Manchester City, Pep's probably going to go. Now, Man City clearly have a squad of players that could challenge for the Premier League next season, whether Pep stays or goes. And if Maresca does come in, then I think that they could have a go. But still, new manager, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, et cetera, and so on. Arsenal you would think would strengthen but how many times do we keep saying it and if they don't win the league if you're Manchester United right now I don't think it is a ridiculous thing to think you have a good summer transfer window you could be challenging for the Premier League next season I completely agree honestly replace Casemiro well get that right and then probably another centre midfielder so one of your Andersons your Whartons are they honestly that far away due to the other all the reasons Oh yeah, it's purely related to the situation as well for three matches a week as well.
44:43Pete Donaldson: So that's what, I think it's fair, because I was thinking to myself, surely Carrick's done enough and, you know, and then you start looking at it like that and you think, it's not ridiculous. No, it's not ridiculous. Like, I don't think it's as absurd as perhaps like on the face of things with it. When you wait up like you have, then yeah. And that's going to cost Carrick, isn't it really? Well, possibly, possibly Peter. If they have someone who they think can come in and win it, I appreciate that the options are narrow. with that a lot of it are all talk this week yeah a lot yes yeah yeah yeah I like it I like it anyway Liverpool on Sunday is the first assignment if they were to beat Liverpool they would do a league double over the Merseyside Giants because obviously they won 2-1 at Anfield in October which would be a lovely old job for them Liverpool though I mean the chat of keeping on a slot do you understand that were you surprised with that I'm happy to be proven wrong next season and everything like that but I think it's the wrong decision I'd get rid of him personally but yeah yeah I have to say I was a little bit surprised as well what about Xabi Alonso in the dugout to Old Trafford if you don't want him we will have some of this boys but Liverpool winning the last three games you've got to say that they've turned it on in the right I say turned it on well they have done they've won three in a row so you've got to give credit there at the right time of the season when it was kind of like what's going on you know with Chelsea sinking into the into that sort of packed going for Europa League and so on.
46:10Pete Donaldson: Liverpool, again, they look pretty safe for Champions League next season, which is huge for them because that would have been damning if not. After the money they've spent and what have you, you know, they've brought in money as well and they're doing very well when it comes to revenue, but they need to be in the Champions League to attract players and such. Yes, indeed. Absolutely. Peter. Yes. I want to mention Steve Bruce, if I can. Oh, okay. Former Manchester United. On a Friday. You're trying to big me up. I had a terrible journey in and trying to big me up Just remember the days. Remember the days.
46:39Pete Donaldson: Before the piff posse. All right, fine. Steve Bruce recently told a story about Sir Alex Ferguson getting into a scrap with the Turkish police after Eric Cantona got sent off against Galatasaray. Now, there are a number of police forces in the world I wouldn't want to get in a scrap with. Turkish police would definitely be up there. Yeah. But if you got Brian Robson with you, I reckon he'd... I was going to say, that team would get injured. Break his leg instantly. That team was pretty handy. Yeah. Got big Gary Pallister there as well, surely, that time. Peter Schmeichel, the big Dane. Pallister would be handy.
47:11Pete Donaldson: Oh, yeah. That's what they called him, the big Dane. Peter Schmeichel. Peter Schmeichel. The big Dane. The great Dane, the big Dane, all the Danes. Dane Bower. It would have probably been, was it before the days of Roy Keane? The young Roy Keane, was he? Yeah, I think so. He would have been there. Yeah, Steve Bruce. Eric. There was a great time in Galatasaray where Eric decides that he wasn't happy about getting sent off. He punched a copper.
47:39Pete Donaldson: You can't do that. Yeah. In any country. Standing in the tunnel entrance as you go down the steps of Galatasaray. There's this scrap down in the tunnels where they're coming from, and everyone's getting battered from pillar to post. I see Fergie at the top of the stairs. You see this, what's going on, and all of a sudden he just gets stuck in. I'll tell you something, though. I don't think there's anything finer than for Team Morrell. Imagine that. thrown out of the balls. Completely agree. I understand the thought of not buying into what Ferguson's doing, right? It's utterly ridiculous. Shoving a wine flute through the throat of a police officer.
48:17Pete Donaldson: Galloping away on his racehawks. See you later, boys. Fairly will. He was weighing into everybody he could come across. I mean, come on. That is a man you want in charge of your club. Oh yeah, yeah. You're going through walls for him. DC, you know what I'm talking about. Oh yeah, I love that. Kicking football boots at people. If you saw in the summer, I don't know, like, you know, Thomas Tuchel just weighing into summer. No, seriously. I'm surprised he's the one man you probably would. Ice turn up, you're not taking me back. I'd be well up. Honestly, if they lost that first game to Croatia, but then Tuchel just kicked off in the tunnel after I'd be like, I'm with them, where are we going?
49:00Which wall are we running through?
49:02Pete Donaldson: Of all the teams I would want them to fight against Croatia would be one of the least. Fair. But you've got to take out the big guy, maybe. I don't know. Put down a mark. Tuto's bought some gas station Kratom and he's gone absolutely crazy in the tunnel. Oh, I love it. Just to finish the story, I just love... Try to have a fight! Try to have a fight outside before my biddy hand. Come on, we're up to Leeds v Burnley. Come on! Yeah, so just to finish the quotes from Bruce, because I love this. He said, we get into the dressing room, he comes in, his hair is all untidy. And he said, none of my lads have been fighting, have we?
49:41Pete Donaldson: And we all went, no, not at all. He went into the bathroom, sorted out his hair, straightened his tie, and then went on and did the TV interviews. That was so, so good! Because he wore his glasses at the time. That's what I want to know. Oh, good question, yeah. And he pocketed them. And he, apparently he was saying, I never saw a thing, and all this kind of stuff. Brilliant. Just love it. Ah. Pre-CCTV ever. Ah, yesterday. Pre-camera phones. Love it. You simply can't get away with that sort of behavior nowadays. You can't. The type of scenes we're not going to see at Arsenal v Fulham on Saturday.
50:10Pete Donaldson: Nah, game's gone. Probably not, no. We want our game back. I think Marcus Silver, he might have a, you know... No. It's the HelloFresh derby.
50:23It's the meal kick derby, isn't it? Very good. I love that. Very good.
50:27Pete Donaldson: Arsenal, though, could go six points clear with a victory against Ulf Fulham. Man City don't play Everton until 8pm this is the weekend surely for Arsenal yeah definitely it's the Monday evening thing as well Man City playing a pretty okay Everton at this point in the season yeah I mean Everton themselves obviously in the mix for European spots as well like I think that that fixture when you obviously they've got to play Bournemouth as well Man City but when you look to the fixture you think Arsenal's slightly easier running I think is it going to go down a goal difference da da da da Arsenal I appreciate they've got Atletico on Tuesday next week, and they are going to have to, that will demand a lot, that game.
51:10Pete Donaldson: But this against Fulham, like I say, every game they have to go in, because not only do they have to beat Fulham, you win by two or three, suddenly that goal difference, the confidence is up and so on and so forth. Despite my preference for Arsenal winning the league, the Man City, I also want Fulham to get into Europe. so actually I hope Fulham spoil the party obviously how many teams can go into Europe I know I think it's 11 isn't it we're all going honestly I burly within a chance but that is the kind of it is an interesting pack because Brighton on 50 in 6th and Fulham on 10th it's 2 points Everton just 3 points behind them if we're being generous Sunderland 4 points nah nah we fucked it last week yeah maybe yeah but yeah 3 points separates 6th and 11th so you know you would say all those teams maybe even Sunderland if they can have a late flurry although confidence is low after being batted 5-0 by Forrest at home but they're in there and also all of those teams bar Chelsea of course they know what it is to win the trophies all those sides in there Bournemouth Brentford Fulham never won major trophies in their history obviously this with Palace Brighton as well you get into the Europa Conference League you know obviously they would be hoping to get into the Europa League bigger competition but even if You could have a good tilt at that.
52:31Pete Donaldson: You get into the Conference League as well. Your favourites. Of course. They'll look at what Palace have done. Exactly. And the fans will be going, oh, we won't be at that. So weirdly, it's actually, for some teams, an incredibly attractive competition. For those reasons. And also, you win that, you're into the Europa. I think it's a massive appeal. Climbing the European ladder. It's a massive... All the way back to Brussels. It's got massive appeal. Look at when West Ham won it as well. The fans had the time. Exactly. The Palace are enjoying it right now. Well, I think that's what... I think Marco Silva, he's sort of...
53:00Pete Donaldson: He's looking around and thinking, there's not any jobs at the moment. I wonder what's going on. And he's not saying he's committed to next season, but he's playing it well. But I think if they qualify for Europe, he'll definitely stay. Because he knows what they could potentially achieve. He can be seen on Euro television. There you are, you see. Ben Faker job might be coming up. Oh, yeah. There's a lot of... He's not done with the Premier League. There's more suitors for the Ben Faker job than anyone, isn't there? There is. there's not enough grey hairs in Marcus Silva's Barnet let's go a few more Portuguese cafes in Fulham you may be I'll be up for that having a little natter over a natter right then so Arsenal yes it must win game for them if you see what I mean obviously they drew away to Atletico midweek did you see that there's been a bit of a fallout Ben White stepping on the Atletico Madrid crest yeah yeah that's a load of bollocks isn't it don't put it on the floor yeah right don't put it on the floor right at the entrance of the bloody It's a pretty simple thing.
53:57Someone said they should put little bollards around. Like a little ring-fet, like flowers. Just flowers around it.
54:05Pete Donaldson: Or like in a cricket square in the summer. Just put it at the side. You know what makes me laugh in all of this? There's so much to think about. Such performative bollocks. Yeah, oh, did you see Real Ferdinand when he walked around it? Oh, right. There's a clip of him and he just makes a big point of walking around it. It's like, fuck off, Riam. The idea that... Tiptoeing around the tax man all the way to Dubai. It's the fact that it's Ben White as well. Yeah, I know. His head's just in the clouds. Generally speaking in life. And the fact that he's like... What's for dinner? Yeah, do you think he honestly cares about that?
54:34Or even notice? No. Get over it. Stop being so precious.
54:38Pete Donaldson: He's thinking about his L.O. Fresh. He is. It's like, this man... Beans again, is it? Rubbish. He couldn't give two shits. No. Football. Do you think he's aware of this? You fools. He's Googling jet ski sales. That's what Ben White's thinking about. He's probably annoyed he had to play. Yeah. Oh dear He's thinking about I can't get the AstroTurf In the garden Taken up Haven't I Get the Rage Rover Lease renewed What shade of grey Are we painting In the living room Good old whitey Live life love Right Gentlemen Before we Talk about What's happening This afternoon I want to go to The Spanish fifth tier C.D.
55:17Pete Donaldson: Colunga They will be fielding A 70 year old Goalkeeper this weekend Mateos Gonzalez Is set to start in goal against Praviano in the final game of the season, making him the oldest player to make an official appearance in Spain. A statement from the club on social media said, we're not facing a record, we're in for a recognition. The age is secondary. The important thing is attitude, care and commitment to sport. Gonzalez says, I still feel agile. I've remained active. Playing for the Junosa company team, the Turon veterans team, and I'm still playing today. So this is not gimmicky. This is nothing to do with records or anything like that.
55:53Pete Donaldson: They just wanted to give a man who attitude and agility and his care and commitment to the sport is spot on. We do this every week. Let us play on the side. Let me play for Newcastle. Genuinely, I think you'd be a better option. Let me play for Newcastle. It's not fair. I think we should have a go. What do you think about putting a 70-year-old in goal, Pete? We've just been talking about Ben White disrespecting the Atletico Madrid's badge. is this disrespecting the Spanish 50? It says he's not going to necessarily finish the he's not going to finish the match I think he said he'll do a few minutes 6-0 down after 5 minutes It's a bit Kazuyo Shmiura isn't it?
56:31It's a bit King Kazoo The goalkeeper though
56:33Pete Donaldson: You can't be messing around with a goalkeeper Just a bit What I like about it is a lot of these pieces they're clearly AI translated and stuff and he said one of the quotes from the player himself I remember I used to keep a cauldron next to the goal so that without the referee seeing me I could scoop out the water when the pitches got muddy which back then was an ulcer daily occurrence sorry a cauldron was he some sort of wallop toil and fucking trouble what to make the attackers slip up yeah I don't know he just had a big cauldron to the sides of the thing other goalkeepers have a box I've got a moat no wonder he kept so many clean sheets oh dear me I mean the photo of him he looks looks in decent nickleaf There's an AI-generated photo, of course, because it's clearly from like, I don't know, like...
57:23Pete Donaldson: I don't know, the early 1900s or something. Right, okay. Which, maybe when he was born. But yeah, I mean... Why does all AI imagery look like it's got piss on it? Like it's brown and yellow, kind of... It's weird, isn't it? Yeah. I mean, some fans... Or is that just the prompt that you're giving? Put piss on this! Yeah, I mean, some fans said, you know, one person reacted to this. What a tribute and such humility. Is it humility? Humility would be going, I'm too old, mate. But usually a lot of this stuff is kind of like, you just have pure dissenting voices from the fans, but they seem to be on board with this whole thing.
57:57Pete Donaldson: One comment said, hats off to the whole team. Hats off. In advance of the massive shift you're going to put in, hats off to you. I can't believe there's not a lad in the youth team that can come in. Yeah. What's happened there? I don't know. I mean, it's Spanish fifth tier, so I wouldn't imagine it's that sort of moneyed or anything. But you're right, David. quite clearly this good idea we have to we're going to do an update shortly where's Glenn Hoddle's soccer school when you need it maybe this is it maybe he's turned his attention to old boys yeah you've never had a game of professional football or semi-pro I'll sort you out son you're testing them from distance straight away aren't you I just see his own reflexes do you know what that never works though at grassroots football you've ever seen that when you think to yourself that's not their usual goalkeeper look at the size of that lad it works for me and Ben I just, everyone's always right.
58:45Pete Donaldson: Shoot on sight, lads. You never do. Like, you try to crack one from 30 yards and it goes out for a throw-in. Just play your normal game. You play your normal game. That's what you should do. There we are. Well, yeah, Spanish fifth tier has caught our attention and perhaps that's what they wanted. Let us move on now to announce this afternoon's My Bidyard. Oh, it's a big one. Oh, it is the battle of the men from the northeast. It's Pete Donaldson versus David Cartlidge. This will determine on how we spell Hawaii is it H-O way or will it be H-A-way the winner of this decides and determines it forever it will be available my biddy aunt to listen to later today make sure to subscribe to the Football Ramble in your podcast app so you do not miss it a battle for the ages thank you very much for listening to the Football Ramble part of the Acast Creator Network as I say we'll be back very soon with my biddy aunt but until then thank you Peter thank you thank you David thank you and thank you Mateos Gonzalez
59:51The Football Ramble is a Stack Production and part of the Acast Creator Network.
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In a show of unity rarely seen in the north east, David and Pete have joined forces against that southern softie, Marcus Speller. The three of them are here to look back on a controversial win for Nottingham Forest in the Europa League.
Elsewhere, we wonder if the new Donaldson-Cartlidge alliance would have done a better job managing Burnley than Scott Parker. Plus, we hear from Steve Bruce about the time Sir Alex Ferguson brawled with the Turkish police.
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