In short
The Rest is Football (Mike Richards, Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker) discusses recent Premier League and Champions League form, focusing on Arsenal’s turnaround, Tottenham’s escape from relegation, and Manchester United’s young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. Arsenal: after a shaky period, they played with more energy and directness—higher Bukayo Saka, quicker forward passing, and improved midfield build-up via Myles Lewis-Skelly. Key claims include: Jorrel “Jokeres” (likely Viktor Gyokeres) stretching defenses and enabling Saka; Lewis-Skelly’s forward runs breaking lines faster than a more cautious tempo controller; and a potential historic Arsenal double (Premier League plus European Cup/Champions League).
Notable examples
Saka’s early, whipped-in delivery to maximize Gyokeres; Arsenal’s confidence after an earlier edgy Newcastle win. Tottenham: two away wins in two games, out of the relegation zone, driven by aggressive high pressing and Conor Gallagher’s energy.
Notable examples
stopping Villa’s middle passing lanes; West Ham’s difficult run. Manchester United: Mainoo’s resilience and improved role after being overlooked; Bruno’s forward positioning and Harry Maguire returning.
Guests
Mike Richards, Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker, plus Micah (Micah Richards) as co-host.
Written by AI. May contain mistakes. Listen to the episode to check what was said.
Chapters
Tap a time to open that second in VOMatch Insights: Post-Manchester United vs. Liverpool
2:01 to 4:12
An analysis of the recent Manchester United and Liverpool match and its implications.
“Hello and welcome to The Rest is Football with Mike Richards, Alan Shearer and me, Gary Lineker.”
Arsenal's Recent Performance and Impact Players
5:14 to 12:24
Explore Arsenal's resurgence and key players influencing their success.
“and get the chance to ask us your football question on the pod, full terms and conditions at FuseEnergy.com.”
The Potential for Historic Achievements
12:24 to 14:00
Discuss the implications of Arsenal's current form and potential achievements.
“I mean, because City are more than capable of winning the two games in hand, and then it'll be really close again.”
Arsenal's Historic Season Potential
14:00 to 15:00
Discussing Arsenal's chances for a historic double this season.
“But certainly no one's having that comment.”
Confidence and Expectations for Arsenal
15:00 to 16:10
The importance of confidence and belief for Arsenal as they push for success.
“Everton fighting for European football, possibly even a Champions League spot, should Villa finish fifth and win the Europa League.”
Debate on Manchester United's Young Talent
16:10 to 17:30
Analyzing the emergence of young player Kobe Maynou in Manchester United.
“Talk about another player, Myles Skelly, we talked about already as a player that last season we all said he's going to be an England regular and so and so.”
Michael Carrick's Improvement at United
17:30 to 18:50
Evaluating Michael Carrick's managerial impact and future at United.
“So I just think there's a big improvement there.”
Mainoo's Rise and Resilience
18:50 to 19:40
Discussing Kobe Maynou's growth, resilience, and potential future.
“And that part of your career where a manager's not playing, and you can go the other way, that self-doubt comes in.”
England's Midfield Dynamics for Future Tournaments
19:40 to 22:40
Exploring midfield options and their importance for the England national team.
“But again, we don't want to exaggerate like he's the best defensive midfielder in world football.”
Player Management and World Cup Strategy
22:40 to 23:20
The necessity of player rotation and management in the upcoming World Cup.
“I do think it'll be incredibly tough because of the competition.”
Show all 20 chapters
Controversial Goal Decisions in Football
23:20 to 24:20
Debating the handball rule and its implications in recent matches.
“If he picks Trent, he's just come back and starting to play.”
Liverpool's Current Struggles and Managerial Support
24:20 to 27:00
Discussion on Liverpool's performance issues and support for their manager.
“I've heard commentators used differently or Cesco.”
Eddie Howe's Future at Newcastle
27:00 to 28:00
Speculation on Eddie Howe's position and future with Newcastle.
“I think if it was my choice, then I would have him as manager.”
Newcastle's Future with Eddie Howe
28:00 to 30:00
Discussion about Eddie Howe's role and future at Newcastle.
“So I'd like to see the manager get a chance to change that round.”
Tottenham's Resurgence and Recent Performance
30:00 to 37:00
Analysis of Tottenham's recent wins and tactical improvements.
“and we'll talk about, obviously, the game that's about to take place between Villa and Spurs.”
Impact of Fans on Team Momentum
37:10 to 40:00
Exploration of how fan support influences team performance.
“I thought Spurs were absolutely fantastic.”
West Ham's Struggles and League Dynamics
40:20 to 42:01
Discussion on West Ham's recent performance and league standings.
“And I think with West Ham, with their games coming up, their next two are Arsenal at home and Newcastle away.”
Analyzing Tottenham's Defensive Strategy
42:01 to 43:32
Learn about Tottenham's defensive tactics and player performances in recent matches.
“Obviously, Benton Kler and Polinia was good winning the tackles as well.”
Relegation Battle Insights
43:32 to 46:06
Discussion on the relegation battle involving Spurs, West Ham, and Nottingham Forest.
“I think Spurs are going to be all right.”
Upcoming Fixtures and Predictions
46:06 to 46:52
An overview of upcoming matches for West Ham and Spurs with predictions.
Transcript
Automatic transcript. May contain errors.0:00It's time to refresh your yard during spring backyard days at the Home Depot. Get low prices guaranteed on propane grills starting at$179 like the Nexgrill 3-Burner Gas Grill. Or get$50 off a select Weber Spirit Grill and bring big flavor to your backyard. Then set the scene with Hampton Bay String Lights that bring it all together. Shop spring backyard days for seven days at the Home Depot now through May 6th. Exclusion Supply. See homedepot.com slash price match for details. Last night, you spent two hours deciding what to wear to the party. This morning, it'll take you two minutes to list it on Depop and make your money back.
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1:00Alan Shearer:Coming up on today's show, this could be a historic season for Arsenal. They're on the brink of something that the club has never, ever done. A European Cup-stroke-Champions League and Premier League double.
1:14Gary Lineker:That, for me, it could be the weekend that you think. Maybe it's going to be theirs. Jocheres, that's the exact player that I thought it would be earlier on this season.
1:24Alan Shearer:I'm absolutely bewildered by the fact that he didn't get a look in under the previous incumbent. It's incredible. How can you not see how good that kid is? Spurs were absolutely fantastic. Tottenham are back. Tottenham are flying. They're out of the relegation zone. Two wins from two games. Two away victories. What a time to be alive.
2:01Alan Shearer:Hello and welcome to The Rest is Football with Mike Richards, Alan Shearer and me, Gary Lineker. I noticed one thing here because I know we're recording this now just after Manchester United have played Liverpool. And you two are both doing match of the day, right?
2:16Gary Lineker:Yep, correct.
2:17Alan Shearer:And I know that you're both in your dressing rooms.
2:20Gary Lineker:Yep, correct.
2:21Alan Shearer:Can I ask another point? Is it a pay grade thing that Alan's dressing room looks a lot nicer than yours?
2:27Gary Lineker:I was just about to say the opposite, Gaz. I've just had a little look around when Michael was flashing his camera around. I'm thinking, he's obviously got the earlister dressing room and I haven't. Really? You look like you've got wallpaper. He's got wallpaper, lights. Look at him. He looks fantastic.
2:45Alan Shearer:I don't know. I don't want you falling out. You've probably been together all day already. We have. And you've got a long time to go. And very rarely and unusually, probably because it's a bank holiday weekend, there's another game to come. So what we're going to do is get you both back. Maybe you could swap dressing rooms just to keep the pace. When we come back to discuss, obviously, the relegation fight, which we'll do in the second half, because obviously a big game between Villa and Spurs is coming up. But how's the day been so far?
3:13Gary Lineker:It's been all right, yeah. It's been long as per normal getting here. Mike, I was stuck in a bit of traffic because of the Man United-Liverpool traffic. I guess. Were you late, Micah? No. He was perfect. He walked in with about five seconds until kick-off. I bet you were desperate for me that way. I was. I couldn't say a thing. To be early? Yeah, it's to be on time. I got a lift over. You know when the... What's the best word? The driver's divvering. So they got a driver. Sometimes I drive myself, but I had a driver. And he was divvering. I was like, I'm going I'm going to be late. If I'm late, I'm going to get absolutely hammered by Alan.
3:52Come on, put your foot on it. I've got downstairs at two minutes to. I've never run so fast in my life. I can pull a hamstring.
4:03Alan Shearer:Did you tell your driver to put your foot on the gas? Which takes us to.
4:11This episode is powered by Fuse Energy. Before we kick off a quick pre-match warm-up from Fuse, a question on the teams and players who make things count. Which Premier League player scored the most goals as a substitute in 24-25?
4:28Gary Lineker:Duran is my answer. It's not Duran. It's either Muniz or Wilson. I'm going to go Wilson then. Well, you're both wrong. It's Muniz. Goodness. So, the winner is the person that is closest to guessing the number of goals that Rodrigo Munez scored coming off the bench last season? Six. I'll go one up then, seven. The answer is six. Yeah! Oh, it's the winner. Well done, Bill. The best teams find an edge wherever they can. It should be the same with your energy. Take control of your energy like it's part of your game plan. Sign up at fuseenergy.com slash football using code football all uppercase to save on your energy bill.
5:14and get the chance to ask us your football question on the pod, full terms and conditions at FuseEnergy.com.
5:22Alan Shearer:I think we should probably start, even though it wasn't played today, I think we should start with Arsenal because that was, I don't know if I had a statement win, but it was more like the Arsenal that were playing the first half of the season, much more dynamic. Big difference, I would say, to recent weeks. No nervy, playing around, slow at the back. They were getting it forward. Saka was higher.
5:46Gary Lineker:More energy. I guess the early goal gives them a bit of confidence and belief. But, yeah, they were much better, much more energy. Crowd seemed really up for it, backing the players. And, yeah, it was back to quick passing, getting in behind, getting balls into the box and scoring goals. And you could just tell Arteta how happy and relieved he was to see, not only to see the win, but to see the performance. What was the difference, Micah? I thought the difference was definitely Saka. Saka. But also Jokeres. I thought his running in behind was excellent. You know, when we talked about him, before he signed for Arsenal, he come from Sporting, and a lot of people were saying, what type of player is he?
6:30That's the exact player that I thought he would beat earlier on in the season. And I know he found it difficult at Arsenal, and it's difficult going to a big club, and going for the league, and the Champions League, and you've got more scrutiny. But in terms of the basics of his game, he did them really well. And when he stretches the defence like that, it gives more space for the other players to get on the ball. And that's what gives Saka so much space. And Saka, down that right-hand side, his decision-making and his way of pass and the confidence he's playing with now, that's what they need from now to the end of the season.
7:06I wouldn't disagree.
7:07Alan Shearer:We'll come to Saka in more depth in a second. But as you mentioned, Jokeres, He became the second Arsenal player to score 20 plus goals in all competitions. I think it's 14 in the Premier League. In his debut season, that is, this century, 25, 26 years. And he's the first since Alexis Sanchez, who scored 25 goals in 2014-15. So that is all competitions. And we've said all along, hasn't he, he needs to up his goal tally. Because ultimately, that's how you judge as a centre forward. but he did give Arsene something in the terms of he does try to get behind, which stretches the oppositions to a degree and allows a bit more space for the midfield players.
7:50Alan Shearer:So I think it's been a reasonable season for him and it could end up being a really, really good season for him because he's going to play now, isn't he? He obviously scored in midweek as well in the Champions League, albeit a penalty, but I mean, most of Alan's goals are penalties so he's not going to knock you on that.
8:09Gary Lineker:Yeah, you know what, though? We said it early season. I said it very, very early on. In fact, it might have been in the first two or three games, is that I feel as if you're going to and want to get the best out of him, you've got to get balls into the box pretty early. And I've seen nothing that takes my mind away from that. It's like most goal scorers and centre forwards who want to get into those positions. you need the balls delivered early into the box. And I don't think it suits his game when you go pass, pass, pass, from right out to left, back into the middle. But I do think it suits his game when you've got a direct winger who's going to, one, either go past early and get the ball in or not even bother to go past the defender and get the ball in.
8:56Gary Lineker:And I thought the example of Saka yesterday, when he went past him, whipped it in, I thought that's a great example of how to get the best out of Jokka.
9:05Alan Shearer:I'm going to throw something in here because I think there's a fundamental difference between the Arsenal that we've seen in recent weeks. And, you know, no disrespect to Zubomendi, but he's a cautious player, right? So he's a defensive midfield player and he's the player that predominantly knocks it back. I thought Myles Lewis Skelly came in in a midfield position, not like a left back that's moving in a midfield position. And his first thought is to turn and look forward and quickly. And I think that really enabled Arsenal to get it forward quicker. And obviously it was a bit of a plan. They pushed the wingers higher and Saka was getting the ball in time to actually take someone on.
9:47Alan Shearer:And I think he made a fundamental difference. And I think that's quite interesting because he's a young player and we'd known him as a fullback. But in that midfield area, I think the way he was so positive and looking forward. We know what Rice is a different kind of player in the sense that he's probably at his best when he's running with the ball. But he's also not really a player that tends to look for forward passes particularly quickly either. So I think he really helped them. I don't know whether you agree. Yeah, I think they're different. So I would say Zubat Mendy's sort of like a Rodri type player who likes to demand the ball and he sees everything in front of him.
10:27But I totally agree with Myles Lewis Skelly. I remember a game, it was last season against Real Madrid. And I think he was playing left-back, but was coming into midfield and did exactly what he was talking about. And the thing is, with Zubimendi, he can control it. He can control the tempo. So he's a pep-style player, we could say. But with Myles Lewis Skelly, because he's got that injection of pace, then when we talk about breaking a line, he can break the line. And he doesn't have to do it with a pass. He can do it with running forward, which then allows the likes of Saka to get on the ball.
11:03So you're completely right. And sometimes Zoumendi ends up in situations where technically he's very good, but you just, you know, when you need to get away from someone, that was the difference. I totally agree with you guys. And I think that's been Arsenal's problem. They haven't been able to break the lines quickly. But also, if you look at Odegaard, one of my favourite players in the Premier League in terms of touch and technique. You know, when someone's very good on the eye. But what Odegaard does, he comes beyond the midfield line. Instead of getting the ball in the pocket, he gets it behind the line.
11:40Then when you're defending against him, it's very easy to just shut up shop and get back into some sort of shape. Whereas when Maslow Skelly is able to drive and Declan Rice are able to drive, you can also beat the press that way as well. So, yeah, it was different. And Eze played well, didn't he? Eze had some good touches. And, yeah, he looked very confident.
12:00Alan Shearer:You know that Eze's not faced. You can tell his attitude. You know, he was the star man in the cup final, wasn't he, for Palace? He delivered that brilliant moment last week. And his interview after the game. And I just thought, this guy's a relaxed dude. And hugely talented as well. So, I think it was a really, really important win. It doesn't necessarily mean a certainty to win the league. I mean, because City are more than capable of winning the two games in hand, and then it'll be really close again. But I think what it will do at the right point, and I said this, I thought this would happen at some point, that they'd find a performance, and what that does to your confidence and belief, and the whole mindset of things, everything, all the noise just evaporates a little bit, and the world's a better place, and you've got a smile on your face, and you look forward to the next game rather than thinking, right, we need to win the next game.
12:57Gary Lineker:Even after they beat Newcastle, it was, I don't know, it wasn't a great performance. He's gone Newcastle in, Michael. He's gone in already. It was very edgy, wasn't it? It was very edgy performance against Newcastle. Nervous. Yet, a lot of the talk after that game was that. Whereas all the talk about their performance yesterday was how positive everything was, how good Saka was, how good Lewis Skelly was in the midfield. And all of a sudden, it's all, everything's better. Everywhere you look, in every position, and the belief in the confidence that they'll take into Tuesday's game and into next weekend, I think will be huge.
13:37Gary Lineker:And that, for me, just, it could be the weekend that you think, maybe it's going to be theirs.
13:42Alan Shearer:Yeah, I mean, we've all, you know, we pontificate, don't we? We talk endlessly because we've got podcasts to do. but there's a different kind of vibe now. So even though, but I think we said it many times, you know, you're in the semi-final in the Champions League and you're top of the league, so why worry too much? But certainly no one's having that comment. They're just going, right, wow, this could be a historic season for Arsenal. They're on the brink of something that the club has never, ever done. A European Cup stroke Champions League and Premier League double. it's not beyond the realms I mean their favourites now to go past Atletico and I think this game will influence that as well, the whole demeanour as they approach that game I think will be much more positive and then in the final, yes they'll be second favourites in the final because the two teams they're up against are seriously good but the way Arsenal play and the nature of it and the fact that neither Bayern nor PSG defend brilliantly and Arsenal do defend really, really well.
14:48Alan Shearer:It'll be a fascinating one-off final. So that is possible. If Manchester City don't get three points against Everton on Monday night, and that's a tough game, Everton fighting for European football, possibly even a Champions League spot, should Villa finish fifth and win the Europa League. So it could be really special for them.
15:13Gary Lineker:Could be, yeah. I think the belief in confidence that will give them yesterday. It will be huge. I'd agree with both of you. But when you've not done it, that's when a little bit of doubt. So you're watching the game tomorrow. We're recording this on Sunday. You know, your eyes on Everton, Man City tomorrow. And then Atletico, they need to get over the line on that as well. They just need to believe in themselves, don't they? They've got this far. It was really good in the league phase. Yes, they had a little bit of a bumpy road, but they're in the position. Now it's, can you get over the line?
15:47And after that performance that they showed against Fulham, it shows that they're, I wouldn't say they're not nervous, but they can still put in big performances. And that was the most important.
15:57Alan Shearer:I think it was a really, really important game and could prove pivotal. We don't know, of course. And we know City are good down the stretch and we'll see how they get on against Everton. Elsewhere, I quite enjoyed the United-Liverpool game. Talk about another player, Myles Skelly, we talked about already as a player that last season we all said he's going to be an England regular and so and so. Kobe Maynou, I thought was the star of this game. I absolutely bewildered by the fact that he didn't get a look in under the previous incumbent. It's incredible. I mean, I don't get it at all. And even whatever system you play or anything like that, how can you not see how good that kid is?
16:41Alan Shearer:Now, I've seen two or three, you know, I shouldn't really look at these social media things and, you know, these Manchester United fan things. I think one of them I saw, he's not even a real Manchester United fan. Apparently, he pretends he is. And they all said, yeah, but this is all because of what Amerim has done previously, prior to this. And this is because they bought well and stuff, but which won't be Amerim's job, obviously, who did he decide that they sign? I think it's quite extraordinary. And I think they're taking it away from Michael Carrick because for some reason they don't want to appoint him.
Read the full transcript
17:17Alan Shearer:So the Manu thing for me is the absolute evidence that this is not the leftovers of what Amarin was doing. This is the fact that he's played Bruno in a more forward position. The fact that he's brought back Manu, Harry Maguire at the back, who was not looked at too often. So I just think there's a big improvement there. I mean, they're still not got overall probably the players to compete for the league next season. And the bigger test will be the fact that at the moment they're only playing once a week. And that obviously you can plan more. But the improvement is stark.
17:57Gary Lineker:Yeah, without doubt. I mean, I think he's done a really, really impressive job, Michael Carrick. He's done everything that's asked of him. they qualified for the Champions League I think it would be incredibly harsh if he wasn't given the goal ahead to go again and now even if that's for a year I've said it even if he has to hit certain heights or certain incentives to get there but he deserves at least another year to go again now they clearly need to get rid of a few and then they'll have to bring a few in because they're going to have to improve and they will be playing a lot more football next season than they have done this season But that's not his fault.
18:36Gary Lineker:He was come in and asked to do a job, and he's done that job really, really well. And for me, he deserves another crack at it. Yeah, I would agree. Just moving on to Maino, I think in terms of his resilience, you know, let's not forget Maino's just a young lad. And that part of your career where a manager's not playing, and you can go the other way, that self-doubt comes in. you start sort of questioning everything that you're doing are you being professional outside of work all the things that we go through as young professionals but for him to come in and then don't you remember when he got a game and everyone was saying oh man he's got to play well today he played well I wouldn't say he was outstanding but he played well seven and a half out of ten and he's slowly but surely just grown in confidence and now he's a mainstay in the team might even be a mainstay in the summer Micah yes and I think I think he's an option in there because the blessed in those positions I would say because if you want to play Rice Rice plays a little bit deeper sometimes for England you've got Anderson who's been fantastic for Forrest if only Al would have listened to me all the months ago when I said when he was at when he was at Newcastle here he goes Al here he goes extraordinary cheers go out the Oracle so So, yes, I would 100 % take him.
20:03But again, we don't want to exaggerate like he's the best defensive midfielder in world football. My thing with it is he's gone through a little bit of a difficult time. How can he react? And he's reacted in the right way. So that means he's got the ability, but he's also got the character. So from now on, he can go on and be whatever he wants to be because he's been tested at such a young age. He was England's best player of the Euros.
20:29Alan Shearer:He was England's best player at the Euros two years ago.
20:32Gary Lineker:The one thing I would say with England, Gaz, is that I think the positions that the manager has probably already cemented in is that midfield where he's got Rice, he's got Henderson in there, he's got Wharton in there. But we've seen another great performance today and last week and the week before, and for such a long time now with Alex Scott at Bournemouth. He's in there. Wharton, as I've mentioned. So I think it would take something huge for the manager to put another one in there in Minou. Having said that, Penny for Amarin's thoughts now with him leaving him out, blanking him completely. And him playing such a pivotal part now for Man United is incredible.
21:12Alan Shearer:The thing I would say, though, he'll make the squad. Yeah. So, therefore, and I think this is really important. This World Cup is like no other we've ever had. There's an extra round of matches. And it's going to be played in exceptional heat, but mostly World Cups are. But there are a lot of games to play. And you're going to have to rotate. Players are going to get injured. And the more players that you've got that are seriously good, the better. Now, you could see Rice. And I would talk about Declan. Declan is overplayed, right? He's played so many games this season, and he probably covers more yardage than most players.
21:53Alan Shearer:So he could run out of steam at some point in the World Cup and need a rest. So to have options, particularly in this World Cup, where there's an extra round in there, it's going to be invaluable, I think, to have someone that is bursting into form.
22:10Gary Lineker:Squads are no bigger, though. You can only have a certain amount of players in there. They're big squads. Yeah, but...
22:16Alan Shearer:No, that's my point, Alan. My point is that you need the squad in this World Cup more than you've ever needed the squad before. Because most times, we'll all be arguing about what should be the starting XI. Yeah, yeah, yeah. And even in our time, the starting XI was never the same at the start of the tournament as at the end of the tournament. But in this one, I think there'll be more rotation than there's ever been before because you'll need to do it.
22:41Gary Lineker:Yeah, I agree. Yeah. I do think it'll be incredibly tough because of the competition. I think that is in and around that central midfield yet. But I'm not saying that what you're saying is wrong. I'm just going along with, you can only pick so many in there. Yeah.
22:54Alan Shearer:But, you know, Bryce has played so many matches. Rodgers has played so many matches. I think the real bonus for England, in a weird way, is one or two of the injuries that we've had. People like Saka now coming back. Great performance. He'll be fresh as a day as he's going into the World Cup, which is really positive. I'm slightly more encouraged than I was maybe two weeks ago about the World Cup coming up because of that. Harry Kane rested frequently, right? Jude Bellingham had a long injury. He's out for a long time. If he picks Trent, he's just come back and starting to play. He's played some really good football.
23:28Alan Shearer:So we have got a number of players now that might not be exhausted, which is often the problem for England going into these tournaments. But, you know, that's perhaps a compensation for another day. Quick one on Bruno. Apparently, he's been given the assist, but not given the assist, which I'm only bringing this up because it equals the record of Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne if he's got the assist. So fantasy football have given the assist. I mean, obviously they're the most important thing in football nowadays. And the Premier League haven't.
24:00Gary Lineker:He'll keep a touch there with his hand, isn't he? That's it, isn't it? Keep a touch there with his hand. Everything's determined by handballs these days. Fantasy football is the most important. Yes, he's got the assist.
24:11Alan Shearer:That's all I'm saying about that. Well, because we've all got him in our team. I think everyone has though. If you're not going on your team, you're mad. What did we make of the Cesco goal or Cesco? Do we see Cesco or Cesco? I've heard commentators used differently or Cesco. Not quite sure what it is. Was it handball? Was it not handball? I mean, this is where we are now. This is where we are now with this absurd handball. We're in a position where we're looking to see whether it's Flix's nails on his fingers. I mean, that's all it was. And if it did, then the referee should overturn it. Well, it did.
24:51I couldn't tell. I looked at replays lots of times. I couldn't be sure. We could.
24:55Gary Lineker:We could tell pretty much straight away, myself and Micah. But I don't want to see that given as handball. Right. And I hate the handball law, as you know. But for the avoidance of doubt, the law is, if it hits his hand, who scores the goal? any part of his hand it has to be disallowed now if you're wanting consistency then that has hit his hand so by the letter of the law it should be disallowed now I'm not for it being disallowed and under any part of me I want to see that given as a goal both for consistency and the law it says it should be disallowed I just thought it might have might have flicked his fingernails now is that part of your hand
25:42or is it just something that's attached to your fingers i mean i think they need to define this law properly
25:52Gary Lineker:but that's where we are this is what they have created with this nonsense of everything it's like we're now sitting debating whether probably it has it's it's it's it's his fingers or his fingernail whatever you want to call it this is this is what they've put us into this position which is how we're debating this crap. It's just ridiculous. It really is. What do you think, Micah? Handball. Yeah. It's as simple as that. We don't like it. We all know we shouldn't be looking at it. But the truth is, it hits hand. And I've seen angles where the ball deviates and the motion of the ball changes. So it's handball.
26:30And if I can see that with my eyesight, surely VAR can see that. It's as simple as that. I understand why Slott was raging after the game. I don't know. People say you get some and you don't get some. The truth of the matter is, it was on ball. Will Slott be there next season?
26:50Gary Lineker:I think so. I think in terms of what he did last season and winning the league manager of the season, I guess with the issues and the problems they've had at Liverpool this year, then yeah, I do. I think if it was my choice, then I would have him as manager. Yeah, 11 defeats in the Premier League. Yeah, I would still have him. Still in a Champions League position. Yeah, Champions League position, still Premier League last season. I think where the scrutiny comes is that the signings have not worked. Isak's been injured. Verts has not been at the level that we all expect. Frimpong is your right winger.
27:31He's your right back. It's not really working, working out. Kirkez. Kirkez. has been a shadow of the player he was at Bournemouth. I don't know if that's pressure. I don't know if that's system. And Liverpool, all in all, are too slow. They're too passive. They're too easy to play against. And what you normally associate Liverpool with is being aggressive, hard to beat, work rate, especially under Klopp and none of those things. So I'd like to see the manager get a chance to change that round. Yeah, I would agree with that. I wouldn't be surprised if we saw Xavi Alonso there next season. I wouldn't be surprised, but I agree with you, but it's a brutal business, this management game.
28:19Alan Shearer:I know you've got to get back because you've got a meeting shortly and you've got to watch the later game, but I want to get word on Newcastle. just about Eddie really because it seems there's been I don't know if it's an official announcement but it looks like Eddie's going to be there and wants to be there next season now you got a little bit on social media I saw Al and I think I'm fairly personally and I wish it wasn't fairly yeah you people you know because you were saying I don't think Eddie will be there next season I think people thought you were insinuating that you didn't think he should be there next season when I actually think you were saying that I'm not sure he wants to be there next season.
29:00Alan Shearer:I just thought we should clear that up.
29:01Gary Lineker:What I did say was that it all being equal, I want him to be there, but he has to want to be there himself. And I gather that the meeting that they had, because all the top brass were in Newcastle last week for two or three days and had a meeting, and by all accounts that those meetings went really, really well for both parties. So that tells me that if it is true, and I gather it is, then Eddie was happy with what he heard and they were happy with what they heard from Eddie as well.
29:31Alan Shearer:And you would be happy to hear that?
29:33Gary Lineker:Absolutely. I guess if there's one manager that deserves the chance to go again, to go and say, OK, we've had a bad season, fine. Recruitment hasn't helped at all last summer and we know that it's been a really, really tough season and the quicker it ends for Newcastle, the better. So they can start planning for next season. and I'm pleased that if it is true, which it sounds as if it is, that Eddie's going to be the helm to do that.
29:58Alan Shearer:We'll come back after the break and we'll talk about, obviously, the game that's about to take place between Villa and Spurs. And it's interesting with Villa, who could, you know, Liverpool lost. So I think it's probably between Liverpool and Villa, who's fifth. If Villa are fifth, I think it's worth saying that, you know, it's quite open who might then get into the Champions League in sixth place. if Villa win the Europa League, that is, which is probably 50-50 against Forest in that semi-final. And Bournemouth are currently in that sixth position and Iriola's obviously leaving at the end of the season.
30:36Alan Shearer:I don't think he'll be short of people, clubs, trying to sign him. I don't know. It's strange, isn't it? You know when managers say that they're going to go or the rumour to go before the end of the season, the season's not finished, and you've not finished what you've started? It's madness. It's odd, isn't it? You've got Glasner as well, haven't you? Yeah. Palace, who, you know, they're in touching distance of the final, the conference. I understood that one a little bit more because he sort of threw his toys out the pram, didn't he? Because he didn't get the players that he wanted. But, like, with Bournemouth, the season that they had, if they go get Champions League football, you're the guy to take them there.
31:13You'd want to have at least a season in there, wouldn't you? But I just find it strange how we talk about everyone's got to work out, Everyone's got to be on it. And we don't say anything to the media to the end of the season or whatever it is. And then it comes out and it's just like, I just find the whole thing strange. Quite fascinating for all the hard work that you've done. You're talking about leaving before the job's done.
31:37Alan Shearer:I'll tell you what is fascinating. I know you've got a meeting now. So Oliver Glasner's quote on Palace's performance against Bournemouth. Let's say you have a friend's birthday and your wedding is a few days later. You're more excited for the wedding. This is the same. Bournemouth semi-final was today. Ours is on Thursday. Very good. Very, very good. I like that. Okay. We'll chat again in a couple of hours. This segment is brought to you by Hotels.com. Fans from around the world will travel across Canada, Mexico and the United States this summer to follow their teams. There's always that sense of excitement at the start.
32:22But as the tournament goes on and results start going your way, that changes. It stops being about just being there and starts to feel like you've got a chance. So, chaps, when a team gets on a run, how much do you notice that that support starts to build around you?
32:39Gary Lineker:Definitely. I guess even more so now with social media because the noise gets louder and louder. but you know as well as I do momentum in any sport is huge so you win your first game you win your second then all of a sudden people start talking about what can and what they hope will happen and you respond and you feel like there's no doubt about it as a player and then the famous slogan it's coming home that's what it sounds doesn't it it's coming home I've said it guys no I think we should ban it because it's clearly bad luck keep saying this it's coming soon hopefully before you pass away guys it's coming then better hurry up then it's going to happen hopefully in my lifetime but I've got a few more years in you but it's coming home I love it I love it that's momentum like Al said yeah I've watched so many World Cups since 1970 I can't remember 66 I wasn't old enough when we actually won it so I've watched every World Cup since 70 wait and played in a couple worked on numerous and be working on this one as well and God it'd be lovely to see if England could do it but it's tough winning the World Cup it's tough but the fans do make a difference and that travelling contingent they travel to all parts of the world to watch Amazing the cost of it is is huge as well but the the fans never ever let you down they're always in their thousands amazing and it does make a difference.
34:14And I remember in Italia 90, you know, the first game of a few, and then we started to do quite well and the momentum was building. And in those days, you didn't really know what was going on at home because there was no social media. You couldn't really watch your own TV, obviously, because you're abroad. And then you actually start to feel it because of the massive fans that are coming. There's more and more coming to your games. So it really does make a difference. And whether fans are following one of the favorites or it's their country's first time at a tournament, there's always that excitement at the start.
34:49But as results start to go your way, that support turns into belief and then into the dreaded expectation. You can sense it in the stadium and you know it's building back home as well. If you're traveling to be part of it, Hotels.com rewards you along the way. Stay 10 nights and get£100 back in Hotels.com cash to use towards a future stay. Hotels.com, it's all in the name. Loyalty members aged 18 plus, average cost per night must be£70 or more. Terms apply.
35:24This episode is brought to you by Snickers. Right, so VAR goes up and whether you're watching with your mates or just watching on your own, it all kicks off. You're arguing, fuming, getting way too worked up.
35:37Gary Lineker:Honestly, it's like watching someone slowly turn into a different person. You're not you when you're hungry. Classic. So maybe it's a sign, a sign for Snickers. Never a bad call to help you avoid a full-on meltdown. I've seen a few in my time. Remember Tamuri Kitbaya? And he wanted to prove a point to the manager that he should be in the team and he scored the goal. and whipped his shirt off and threw it into the Gallagher end and started absolutely smashing the advertising board, volleying it, didn't he? Full-on volley. Can you remember? VAR might test your patience, but it's a shared frustration everyone laughs about.
36:16Gary Lineker:Remember, it's a sign for Snickers. Just remember, everyone loses it sometimes. That's football. Well, you're not you when you're hungry. It's a sign for Snickers. Visit snickers.co.uk to learn more. This episode is brought to you by State Farm. You know those friends who support your preference for podcasts over music on road trips? That's the energy State Farm brings to insurance. With over 19 ,000 local agents, they help you find the coverage that fits your needs. So you can spend less time worrying about insurance and more time enjoying the ride. Download the State Farm app or go online at statefarm.com.
36:53Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. Welcome back to The Rest is Football with Alan Shearer, Mike Richardson and me, Gary. It was a long break for us. It won't be for you listening or watching. So we've seen Tottenham. Tottenham are back. Tottenham are flying. They're out of the relegation zone. Two wins from two games. Two away victories. What a time to be alive. Go on, Mike. Are you going to start on that? I thought Spurs were absolutely fantastic. I thought they were aggressive in the press I thought the second ball they just looked more alive they didn't let Villa play whatsoever and you think it's either where has this been?
37:38obviously maybe the manager coming in deserved me I seen quotes of him earlier in the week talking about he doesn't want people who are negative around him let's think about the positivity at the club and he's made such a difference just in their application and yeah, you're missing a few players, but it just shows you. And I've said with Spurs, I didn't think they'd go down because of the quality, but actually it's been their work rate that's gotten through. I got the wins in the last two games. I just thought everyone on the pitch was amazing.
38:09Gary Lineker:I thought they just went after Villa from the very first minute and chased them down, pressed them down, and they had so much energy and that's where they won the game. They just didn't allow Villa to settle on the ball. They won every tackle, they won every second ball and they were outstanding from start to finish. So, Conor Gallagher sort of epitomised everything, what you need in terms of any performance or an away performance and they were outstanding and deserved the three points. You beat me to it there with Conor Gallagher. I thought he was exceptional. I mean, you know what you get with Conor Gallagher.
38:46You get honesty and you get great energy. You haven't quite seen that as yet though, have you?
38:49Gary Lineker:Yeah, well, from him, guys, have you? Well, you've seen that he's coming into a struggling team and different coaches, different... It seems now under De Zerbe, they've got a little bit of... You know how important belief is and confidence. And belief in the way you're playing as well is really important. And the energy with the players there. And I know fans always go, well, where was that? Where was that before? But sometimes defeats and a lack of confidence sucks out that energy. It's a strange thing. I think we've all been there, haven't we, in positions where you can't. But it looks pretty positive now compared because they're now, obviously, that brings Forrest back into it possibly.
39:30They've got that game in hand. That's against Chelsea tomorrow or tonight if you're listening on Monday. Forrest perhaps back into it now. They've got a big game this afternoon if you're listening on Monday morning against Chelsea. So that would be their game in hand. And currently it's West Ham 36 points, Spurs 37, Forest 39. It's going to be a much higher points tally to stay up this season than we've had in the previous ones, that's for sure. Because both, particularly West Ham, where they were a few weeks ago, and Tottenham in the last probably month have rallied really strongly.
40:11Gary Lineker:That's a big, tough weekend for West Ham after being beaten quite convincingly instantly and then having to sit through that Tottenham game and watch how good Tottenham were. And I think with West Ham, with their games coming up, their next two are Arsenal at home and Newcastle away. And then I think I'm right in saying they finish with Leeds at all last game of the season. I think there's probably three points there for West Ham out of the next three games. So it's been a terrible weekend for West Ham. It is conceivable that 40 points will not be enough to stay up, which is incredibly rare. That is a possibility.
40:49Unlikely. Unlikely. Because Forrester on 39 at the moment, Spurs 37, West Ham 36. You've only got to win two games each there. And that then becomes factual, which is you would never have thought in a million years when you looked at that in, say, February, March, would you? No, exactly. It's mad, isn't it? Because West Ham picked up their form, hadn't they? and then you get a bad result. It's a funny game though, wasn't it? The West Ham game. Did it work two or three times? Yeah, two or three times and then made a couple of the Paul in defensive kind of. Yeah, terrible. I'm just going back to the Spurs game quickly.
41:26I thought it was, if you look at the game tactically, you know, Conor Gallagher has been playing a little bit deeper, you know, with Javi Simmons. and sometimes teams have been allowed to play out against them and then Spurs have had to go a little bit deeper. But if you actually saw when Spurs were pressing, they were really high. And you mentioned it many times in the room when I was watching the game. Look at Conor Gallagher. He's there. He's going. Which then that allows the back line to move up a little bit and not having to deal with balls into the box, how they conceded. I thought Danzo was very aggressive.
42:07Van der Ven was aggressive. And it just helped out the back line. It took a bit of pressure off them. Obviously, Benton Kler and Polinia was good winning the tackles as well. And if you actually watch the game, what they were trying to do, because Villa liked to sort of play through the middle, they was stopping the passing lanes into the middle of the pitch. And then if someone was to get on the ball in there, they was very aggressive the way they was jumping so yeah but Paul Ogana was the one who started that I think he's better when he plays in that slightly more forward midfield role I think we saw that at Chelsea quite a lot back in the day and even in his early days at Atletico Madrid he was playing kind of he's got such a good energy for pressing yes and we've even seen him play that way with England you know is he technically the most gifted footballer ever Well, you'd say probably yes, given the first goal today.
43:05But generally, he's one of those, 100 % closing down. He's really good at that. Great energy and a 100 % drier.
43:14Gary Lineker:Well, they've set the tone tonight, haven't they, Tottenham, with that performance and that attitude. They've set what must be a regular now. That's the standard that they've got to keep up to now. And we haven't seen that rarely, if at all, this season. But going back to the relegation battle, I think Spurs are going to do it. I think Spurs are going to be all right. They've got that little momentum now, haven't they? Yeah. Two wins on the bounce. Could have been three because that Brighton equaliser was really late in the game, wasn't it? Yeah. And to come back from that sickening blow, really, wasn't it?
43:47And it speaks volumes for them. I mean, it does look, it looks most likely to be Spurs or West Ham, but Forest aren't quite out of the mail yet. And they've got, obviously, that European tie. in the middle of it as well, which they'll be focused on. As did Villa today, I think it's fair to say, perhaps. Yeah. A little bit like the quote I did Glasner in the first half. I think the same applies to Villa. I think, I mean, there's, what is it, a six-point gap, I think, from them to Bournemouth in sixth place. Should be enough.
44:18Gary Lineker:Villa made seven changes, didn't they? You and I, Emory made seven changes, but it didn't do anything for their performance. They were really, really poor. I mean at times you could hear their own fans going after them but I guess because of where they are in terms of the semi-final and the position in the league you can accept that maybe once or twice because it's so important for them as well winning that Europa League or getting through to the final That's three away games in a row now that West Ham have failed to score and that makes it difficult I mean you've got to find a way to score I think Nuno will always show you up defensively although they certainly weren't very good defensively in the game on Saturday.
45:00But, yeah, I think Spurs have got that momentum now, although we've seen it shift and shift again so many times. We can't predict, can we? Well, you can't. That's the beauty of football, though, isn't it? You know, people laugh. Oh, you were wrong about this. You were wrong. Well, yes, because we don't. I mean, only Micah is the oracle. No one else. No one else that I know personally is in the same league. Let's have a look at the fixtures. West Ham's, you've just mentioned, Alan, your Arsenal at home. Tough as it gets. Newcastle away. They should get three points. Well, Newcastle, you know, finally got a win.
45:41And Leeds at home. Leeds are probably safe, not quite mathematically yet. And then Spurs fixtures. Leeds at home big game well they're all big now Chelsea away and then Everton at home on the last day of the season both Everton and Chelsea most likely be chasing some kind of European football or could be so not easy either but you would look at those and think Spurs having a point advantage as well probably favourites to stay up now So Leeds are going to play a huge part in who goes down
46:15Gary Lineker:then they go to Spurs and West Ham wow marching down together I think West Ham best chance of getting three points I think is that last home game whether that's going to be enough or not I don't know but it's tough for them now it's been a really really tough weekend for them tough at the bottom tough at the top Man City playing this evening on Monday huge game they've now got to win tough one away at Everton let's see how that goes But that's for another episode. Goodbye from me. Goodbye from me. Goodbye from me.
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From the publisher
Arsenal stretch their lead to six points at the top of the Premier League with one of their most complete performances of the season. Is this the momentum Mikel Arteta needs as his side push for both domestic and European glory?
At the other end, Spurs climb out of the relegation zone after a crucial win over Aston Villa. With Roberto De Zerbi making it two wins from two, belief is building, could their resurgence spell danger for West Ham United?
Plus, Gary, Alan & Micah break down the derby between Manchester United and Liverpool, where Kobbie Mainoo impressed once again. The big question: how did he not get a chance under Ruben Amorim?
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