In short
The Rest is Football (Micah Richards, Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer) covers multiple Premier League matches and broader football issues. Topic: Manchester United’s 2-1 win at Anfield; Liverpool’s slump and squad/manager concerns; Arsenal’s defensive strength and set-piece edge; Spurs-Aston Villa; Chelsea’s Postecoglou sacking; and City/Haaland form; plus promoted clubs’ home results.
Guests
Micah Richards (former England defender, pundit); Gary Lineker (former England striker, pundit); Alan Shearer (former Newcastle/England striker, pundit).
Key claims
United’s pressing and “spirit” were decisive; Harry Maguire’s leadership and 100% effort were praised; Liverpool should have stopped play after McAllister’s head injury; Liverpool’s problems stem from poor adaptation and player form (Connor Bradley “shadow” of last season; Isak not fit; Eketike sharper); Arne Slot’s decisions (including taking off Mo Salah) are questioned but framed as tactical.
Notable examples
Bruno’s volleyed cross/assist for Maguire; three woodwork hits by Liverpool; Mateta’s hat-trick disappointment (missed late winner); Morgan Rogers’ knuckleball goal for Villa; Arsenal’s low goals conceded (three this season) and set pieces; Haaland’s two goals and “unplayable” movement; Sunderland/Burnley promoted clubs’ strong home form.
Written by AI. May contain mistakes. Listen to the episode to check what was said.
Chapters
Tap a time to open that second in VOMan Utd's Impressive Victory
2:25 to 5:36
Discussion on Manchester United's performance in their victory against Liverpool at Anfield.
“because we think Manchester United, Liverpool should lead.”
Harry Maguire's Role and Team Spirit
5:36 to 9:09
Analysis of Harry Maguire's contributions and the overall spirit of the Manchester United team.
“let's say it's been up and down for him.”
Liverpool's Struggles and New Signings
9:09 to 12:30
Insights into Liverpool's performance issues and the integration of new players.
“as a club but one thing I will say is that I think for the first time in a few years their recruitment has been good.”
Comparing Current Liverpool to Past Successes
12:30 to 14:00
Discussion on the challenges Liverpool faces compared to their previous success under Klopp.
“Tackling, leading it, captain, up and down, doing skills.”
Liverpool's Summer Signings and Adaptation Challenges
14:00 to 28:01
Discussion about Liverpool's significant summer signings and the challenges they face in adapting to a new team dynamic.
“In the summer, we're all going, my, what a window Liverpool have had.”
Reflections on Life and Football
28:01 to 28:30
A light-hearted discussion about personal contentment and the football world.
“The salary would have been quite good as well, wouldn't it?”
Reflections on Life and Football
28:55 to 29:05
A light-hearted discussion about personal contentment and the football world.
The Chevy Truck Community
29:32 to 29:56
Discussion about the loyalty and characteristics of Chevy truck owners.
“See our seven-day return policy at Carvana.com.”
Analyzing Arsenal's Defensive Strategy
30:12 to 33:52
A deep dive into Arsenal's tactics, defensive strength, and recent performances.
“I would have gone back at him and actually said, really?”
The Importance of Saka and Goalscorers
33:52 to 37:25
Discussion on the importance of Bukayo Saka and goalscoring strikers for Arsenal.
“I don't think that's been disrespectful.”
Show all 17 chapters
Pronunciation Challenges in Commentary
37:25 to 39:41
A humorous exchange about the difficulties of pronouncing player names during commentary.
“the next three games, which is one of the reasons I've brought him in.”
Ange Postecoglou's Short Tenure at Tottenham
39:41 to 42:00
Analysis of the sacking of Ange Postecoglou and implications for Tottenham.
“It beggars belief, but at the same time, I wasn't the slightest bit surprised.”
The State of Football Management
42:00 to 46:11
Discussing the volatile nature of football management and fan engagement.
“When has he spoken to the new manager that's going to come in?”
Analyzing Haaland's Impact on Manchester City
46:11 to 48:46
Examining Erling Haaland's performance and how he influences Manchester City's play.
“And I know that sounds a bit dramatic, but I think there's a sense of truth in that.”
Mateta's Disappointment Despite a Hat-Trick
48:46 to 53:11
Discussing Mateta's feelings after scoring a hat-trick in a losing match.
“And because he's now changed some certain parts of his runs, you can't mark him.”
The Importance of Home Form for Promoted Clubs
53:11 to 56:00
Analyzing the significance of home form for newly promoted football clubs.
“I just think he's gone too, he's just gone too vigorously at it.”
Match Analysis: Leeds vs Burnley
56:00 to 56:31
The hosts discuss the recent match where Leeds dominated but failed to score, while Burnley capitalized on key moments.
“I heard the commentator say that, Chawana.”
Transcript
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2:09Alan Shearer:Hello and welcome to The Rest is Football with Micah Richards and me, Gary Lineker. Now I need a little bit of an explainer here because Alan is at a party, but he did do what we thought would be the first half of the show, but we've turned that into the second half because we think Manchester United, Liverpool should lead. So Alan had to go to a party later. Micah and myself planned to do this late, so we've kind of twisted it round. It's a game of two halves, basically, in the wrong order, but it's okay. Micah, we've just watched Manchester United win at Anfield and I actually thoroughly enjoyed the game.
2:49Alan Shearer:It was end-to-end and I thought United did really well, really well. Liverpool huffed and puffed there, the woodwork a lot. Can we call him Cody Gatpost? Gatpost. Was it three times he hit the woodwork and a few other chances as well? And then scored. So it was a cracking game though, wasn't it? I thought Man United were absolutely superb. I've questioned the system a lot. I think the system can work against teams who are superior, say, on the ball, on the counterattack. But I think it was more than that today. I think there was organized. I think Mount makes a massive difference in the way they press.
3:34Great energy. So much energy, a little bit more mobile. I thought Bermot and Kunja were brilliant. I thought Ahmad before he went off in forward areas was dangerous. But what I liked the most about Man United was the spirit. How many times have people talked about them buckling under pressure? And when it went to 1-1, the crowd, the Anfield crowd was up. But I've been in them situations where it's so difficult to get a foothold in a game. and then for Harry Maguire to score, it just epitomises him as a player and as a person. All the flack he gets, he keeps going right to the end. There was a few fans talking about he shouldn't be in the team and all that sort of thing.
4:22But in terms of what he does and brings to this team, it's all heart and I actually believe they deserved it. Of course, you're going to look to Liverpool's chances hitting the post. But Man United had chances too. So in terms of the game today, I think all the praise has to go to Man United. To go to Anfield and win is massive.
4:49Alan Shearer:It really is. And I echo your sentiments about Harry Maguire. I always think it's a bit unfair that Sticky gets because you know with Harry, you're always getting 100%. He's brilliant in both boxes, crosses, and heading them out or heading them in as he did in both ends today. He's also actually very comfortable and confident on the ball. But we all know he lacks a little bit of pace on the turn, which, you know, there's nothing you can do about that as that's one thing you can't really improve on, particularly. But he never lets anyone down, Harry Maguire, I think, generally. He's a great, great trier, great leader.
5:30Alan Shearer:And I was really pleased for him. I love him when he was at Leicester. I mean, we're a big, big fan of his and he went to Manchester United and he's, let's say it's been up and down for him. No question about that. But overall, I think that's obviously a big win for Amarim. I think it's his first time he's had back to back Premier League victories, which is an extraordinary statistic. I don't know whether you've seen that bloke on social media, Micah, that has said he's not going to get his hair cut until they win, what, four or five, five games on the bounce or something. Five, five in a row.
6:00Alan Shearer:I think it started at the beginning of last season. and he's like massive, massive, massive hairdo. So he's only, what, three games away now from having a trim. Quite amusing. So, yeah, I think also we have to say that Manchester United, I think generally have been better against the bigger clubs. I know not necessarily Anfield and against Liverpool, but under Amerim a little bit and even prior to Amerim, they became they're sort of better on the counter-attack of course but for a club like Manchester United you can't ultimately be that because you're going to play against teams with a low block and that's where they've struggled see I used the block word there you see everyone's using the block word now which will come into the second half because we recorded the second half before the first half so I already know that we're going to mention blocks and low blocks and high blocks and mid blocks which amused Alan quite a bit it did it really did um just just another point on on man united it it was you mentioned the fact that they're better on the counter-attacks which they are against the big sides but today wasn't fluke you know sometimes it's you're defending and liverpool have all the possession and you get a flukey goal.
7:27Today wasn't that. I remember at the start of the season, I was doing first game, it was Man United Arsenal. And me and Roy was in the studio and was talking about how Man United improved. And I saw improvements. And then as soon as I said, I saw improvements, they went on that terrible, terrible run. But now the next phase of Man United is to be consistent and pick a team who you know is not going to let you down at the weekend. I thought the subs did ever so well when they came on as well. But that's more of the Man United that's going to challenge for Europe if they play like that. And I don't mean Champions League.
8:12I'm not getting too excited. But in terms of European football.
8:16Alan Shearer:I've got a lot of friends who are Manchester United fans. and I wouldn't say there were arguments, but let's say debates and discussions and they always go, players don't care, they're not trying. There's not a fault. You've played for teams where you're struggling. It's not a question of effort, is it? It's a question sometimes when your confidence gets sapped, your ability is drained. And I think that's what it's been for Manchester United. And obviously, they've not really been able to compete on that sense, but I've never felt it was an effort. not necessarily effort but you know they don't care and you see when the reactions to when they score goals even in other games not the big games against Liverpool but it really matters to them and they'll be feeling the pressure and it's a lot to deal with so I never thought it was an effort or a you know they're not trying or anything like that I just think they're a bit lost at the moment as a club but one thing I will say is that I think for the first time in a few years their recruitment has been good.
9:19Alan Shearer:I thought, you know, Mbomo's been, I think he's jumped in there and been excellent from the very start. Cunha had his injury, was out, but I think he's done really well and I thought he was, both of those two today, I thought played really well. And even Tesco, you know, when he's in his bits, when he came on, I thought he held it up well and he's, you know, he showed a bit of awareness around him and he's not just a big target man. So I think for the first time in a while, perhaps Manchester United fans can be encouraged by the players that they've brought in. Yeah, but again, it's that consistency now.
9:54It's how you back it up. Because I agree with you, and Bermos, and it's not just when he's on the ball, he's off the ball, he works very hard for the team. But ultimately, especially in the modern, or today's game, should I say, you get judged on goal and assists. Unfortunately, they've not had enough compared to, say, last season. But yeah, I agree that the fact that they've been really good signings, but they just need to kick on now.
10:22Alan Shearer:Liverpool fans will argue that play should have been stopped for the first goal because McAllister had their head injury. What did you think? Yeah, I think it should have been stopped. It's a fair point, isn't it, under the current guidelines? It should have been stopped. It's as simple as that. The referee didn't see it. We always said, or we were told that head injuries, They're going to stop the game. And at first, it looked like it was Van Dijk, but then it looked like he caught a nail bore off someone else, you know? So, yeah, it should have been stopped, without doubt. One of those things.
10:57Alan Shearer:What about Liverpool? Four defeats on the bounce? No, I don't think it... I mean, earlier in the season, there were a few alarm bells, weren't there? There were winning games late, which we all thought was a good thing, but perhaps it was papering over a few cracks. Their recruitment this summer, at the moment, at the moment, and I'm pretty positive there's so much quality that they've brought in that eventually it'll come good. But at the moment, their new signings, they're struggling a little bit with the probably exception of Eketike. I thought, again, when he came on, looked a real threat.
11:29Yeah, agreed. I think it's difficult. It's sort of... When Man City won the league four years in a row and then they had that drop-off and then you go and you do your broadcasting and you have to call it how it is. Liverpool at this moment in time, it's... Liverpool at the moment... But I realised, I realised, guys. Liverpool... Yeah, you'll get out of the habit. Liverpool at the moment, it's just happening. It's not happening. And Kerkhez looks a shadow of the player last year for Bournemouth. I watched Connor Bradley and I watched him last season and he was filling in for Trent. Every time he came into the team, he was excellent.
12:15He was energetic. He could tackle one versus one. The Liverpool fans were really buying into what he's doing. I watched him for Northern Ireland against Slovakia. And again, he was outstanding. You watched Northern Ireland versus Slovakia? That is impressive. That's how sad I am. I watched the whole game as well. And Connor Bradley was superb. Tackling, leading it, captain, up and down, doing skills. He's a shadow of the player this season in the Liverpool side. When he goes forward, it's always like in his head, he's thinking, oh, I need to release the ball to somebody. He can do it. He can do it.
13:02and he's playing within himself at the moment. I think I've been there a couple of times in my career where you've got better players in the team and you think you're in a team for a certain role. What he needs to get out of his head, he's not there to replace Trent because he can't. Trent was a one in a million player that Liverpool had. But the way Liverpool play, he can be effective with the timing of his runs, The low cross across the box he can put in. And he's good on one of them. But at the moment, he's just sort of, he looks like a nervous wreck. He really does. And I'm a believer he can turn it right.
13:48But when you've got a midfielder coming into a place here at right back, it's just, he needs to do more. And I think he can do more. And that's why I'm saying it.
14:01Alan Shearer:In the summer, we're all going, my, what a window Liverpool have had. Do you think possibly they've taken on too much at one go? So they've made quite, for a team that were super successful last season, you know, cruised through the Premier League, won it easily. And then to bring in so many new faces, you know, five, and also with Trent leaving, Conor Bradley probably stepping in. So you've got five or six. That's a lot to fit in, you know. And some of them will, as has been proved, some of them will adapt quickly and some of them won't, generally speaking. But none of them really have adapted particularly quickly.
14:43Alan Shearer:So with the exception of Eketike. So I just wonder whether why shouldn't we expect them to have a few issues about working out what who's best, who's going to settle in quickly to take that many on? I think about the Ferguson years and the constant success and they kept creating different teams, didn't he? Probably three over his managerial lifetime, really, three teams. But they did it. It was gradual, wasn't it? They're bringing one or two signings each summer, whereas Liverpool have, you know, they've gone all out. You know, big changes. I think a couple of things on that, guys. I think they needed to.
15:23If Trent's going to go, they had to replace the right-back Robertson was getting a little bit older even though he can still do a job so they had to get Kerkhez with a form of him the passing of Jota that's not something Liverpool expected so they had to bring in another player in that position but I don't think it's an excuse because the quality of player that they're bringing in if you spend over 100 million on Virts and Isak, they should be ready to go. And we give Virts a little bit more time because he's coming into a different league. And I have no doubt that it will come good. And I thought he actually played well when he come on in the game today.
16:11But Isak is a shadow of the player. This whole debacle of what happened in the summer, it's showing. He's not fit. Arnie Slott said in the press conference before that now we're going to see the real Isak because he looks like he's going to be fit now. But the chance that he had in the game, if he's at Newcastle, it took set away.
16:36Alan Shearer:But I also would say that because of the length of time all that debacle took place, you know, he wouldn't be as fit and fresh. So he's playing catch up. And when you miss pre-season, it's almost like an injured player coming back. So I would actually give him a little bit more time because he's only played a handful of games. It's almost like he's going through pre-season during a real season. So I would give him a little bit of time on that front and I think he'll come good because he's such a classy player. But I'll ask one question. At the moment, if you were picking your nine, you'd go at a critique ahead of Isak, wouldn't you?
17:13Alan Shearer:Without doubt. And you've just answered the question yourself. If you say you give Isak a little bit more time and it's not, where does he get his minutes from? Okay, on international maybe. but Eketike he's a better nine at the moment it's as simple as that he's fitter he's sharper when he came on he created chances for himself the change of formation to try and accommodate both of the strikers when they went to sort of a 4-2-4 it looked like at one stage in the game then they bring Isek off I just think Eketike settled in better and he's had a better pre-season it's as simple as that but he has to play It's a test actually for Arne Slott.
17:55Alan Shearer:I mean, you say it's his first real test, but his first real test was when he came in, obviously, and filled the shoes of Jurgen Klopp. But it'll be interesting to see how they fare over the next few weeks. Obviously, they need to get back into the ways of last season and a bit of confidence. It's all confidence. It's amazing how, you know, not just football, but all sport, the way you shift the momentum and things are going for him and they don't go for you. Also interesting, almost a statement from Arnie Slott that he brought Mo Salah off trailing 2-1 when you need a goal. And we know what Mo's like.
18:33Alan Shearer:He can pop up. And I know he missed a chance and he was very quiet in the game. But it was an interesting decision. I mean, it nearly paid off immediately because Frimpong went down, crossed the ball and Gakpo should have scored. Yeah, it nearly worked out. But I just thought, Mo won't like that. You know Mo. Yeah, but at the end of the day, the manager's got to do what's right for the team. No player's bigger than the team and Mo's being a team player. At the moment, he's not the Mo we've seen in previous years. Normally, he would have popped up with a goal. that chance when he hit with the outside of his foot, he normally just bends that into the far corner.
19:14And I have no problem with the manager taking off Mo.
19:17Alan Shearer:The interesting thing, Micah, is that as well as speaking as a striker in my day, that when things are not going for you, the ball dropped right between his feet. So he didn't know whether to try and open himself up and hit it with the inside of his foot or try and hit it with the outside of his foot. It was just when things are going for you, when you're informed, that would have dropped perfectly three or four inches further to the left and he'd have just opened himself up and bent it in the top corner. It's funny how those things happen. But when things are going well, Gaz, you don't even think about the finish, you take the touch and do it.
19:55You don't even think about it. You take your touch and you whip it into the top. The game is a mindfuck, as is fantasy football, Mike.
20:05Alan Shearer:Have you got Mo in your team? Yes, I have got Mo. And for the first time in fantasy, or should I say fantasy football history, I'm thinking about taking him out. And it's not because I don't think he will get his form back. Other players, I could get two players who are doing well for what Mo's doing at the moment. Yeah, I did it a couple of weeks ago. Did you? Yeah, but you know I'm all ahead of the game on this fantasy football team. Let me see how many points you got this week. I did all right this week. I don't know how to find out my points. That's how bad I am at this game. You got 72 this week.
20:47Alan Shearer:That's all right. It's respectable, isn't it? What did I get? What did you get, Micah? 74. Oh, you beat me, see? So, you know. It's tight. I'm not ever going to mention producer Harry because he's gloating. He's chuckling here on the left of me. He's going, I got 93. I got 93.
21:08Alan Shearer:he's got top of the league as well oh dear before we move on to the other gameplay today Mike I just want to the first time volleyed cross from Bruno for the goal I know it was a very good header from Harry Maguire but that kind of Bruno magic which he can produce every now and again was exceptional wasn't it? again he's Man United's best player and he has been since he went to the club he's just different level and he must have been frustrated over the years because you can see it sometimes he's a little bit petulant, but that's because he cares so much. But in terms of his quality, it's undoubted.
21:48He's so good. Such a good player. Technique, even playing a little bit deeper, he had to dictate the game in there and I thought him and Casemiro did really well until Liverpool got back into the game. But yeah, he's a special player.
22:04Alan Shearer:Right, Spurs-Aston Villa. Spurs got off to a good start and I thought, well, here we go. But I thought Villa battled away well. It could have gone either way that game. It was pretty end-to-end. I thought Spurs looked a bit light up top. Tell struggled a little bit, I think, to make an impact. A lot of the times, because obviously I look at this side of football, when they played a really high line like Villa did today, with not necessarily that much pressure on the ball. and I've said before I don't mind when players go offside but he was he was going so early he wasn't just offside he was like five yards offside most of the time he needs a little bit of work I preferred him perhaps on the left hand side when I'm seeing him play there but yes yeah it wasn't making the natural runs of a striker that understands how to beat an offside trap which is not that difficult when a team plays that high a line with no pressure on the ball yeah exactly I echo your thoughts as well.
23:05I like him better off the left. But in terms of what Thomas Frank was trying to do, there's a clip or an image of him when they got the goal. He was so happy with the way they pressed. So he wants pace. He wants mobility. And yeah, in terms of tell, he's done all right in recent weeks. But I don't think he's a natural number nine.
23:32Alan Shearer:No, he doesn't look like it yet, but he's very young and can learn. So I wouldn't write that off at the moment. A really good win for Aston Villa. You know, they've turned a bad start to the season, obviously, but I think we all trusted Unai Emery to turn things around. And Morgan Rodgers really found that form that he had last season. I said, what a goal. What a goal that was. It was, what technique do you call that, Gaz? Ronaldo technique or? Or twat it technique. Just twat it. But it was twat it with... Knuckleball, we call it. Knuckleball. Dip on it. Knuckleball, yeah. Did you call it cricket?
24:11He's a class player.
Read the full transcript
24:13Alan Shearer:I love knuckles on your feet. So much. Do they count as knuckles on your feet? You know, like your knuckles on your... Does they count as knuckles or not? Maybe they should be called fuckles.
24:26Whatever they were, it was one hell of a hit. I wish I could hit the ball like that. What a player. What a player he is. It's strange that watching him, he's so different to anything that's in the league. And I know we've mentioned he can hold the ball and turn in midfield, and he sort of uses his body to turn with the ball and keeps it safe and all that sort of stuff. But he's got so much energy also. So if he wants to press, he's perfect, but also can shoot. but also I wouldn't say he's a forward in where he can see a pass at that level, but he can still thread him through at the same time, you know?
25:06Yeah, he's got a lot of game. Yeah, he really has.
25:09Alan Shearer:He really has. I like him a lot. I really do. Yeah, shame for Spurs losing Romero as well in the warm-up didn't help things. But yeah, where do you think they are, Spurs? I mean, obviously last season, you've got to remember they finished 17th in the league. So I suppose anything in the top six, seven would be a big improvement on last season, although they did have a lot of injuries last season. But yeah, I thought they played really well early on in the game. I thought they were two good sides, actually. I just think Spurs just lacked a bit at the top. If you look at Spurs' side, they are where they're supposed to be.
25:56if you look at the young talent that they have, if you look at the top manager, we know Thomas Frank is. But they need a little bit more quality. They need Kulusevsky back. That's what they need. Well, he's a big miss.
26:09Alan Shearer:You forget that. You forget about Kulusevsky. You forget that he's been missing. Get him back. Yeah. They're cooking again. And a number not... They've got Solanke, haven't they, as well? Well, they have, but he's not... I mean, he's been out in and out, hasn't he, with injuries and stuff, and it's not quite happened for him. It looked like Richarlison was going to do something, didn't it? But we know Richarlison's also in and out a bit, isn't he? But, you know, I mean, they're worth their weight in gold. Obviously, we know that's why the club's paid a fortune for them. You know, out-and-out strikers that will score you 20-plus goals a season.
26:45Alan Shearer:There are not many around. I mean, Arsenal have obviously had a pop-up with Giorgores, but will he do it? We don't know yet. He's going through a bit of a tough spell at the moment. So, yeah, we're worth our weight in gold as goal scorers, Micah. How much would you be worth today, I guess? Me? I don't know. I don't know. It's an interesting question. At the moment, not much because I'm almost 65. Do you know what? I still reckon, I honestly still reckon I could score half a dozen goals a season. just by laying down on this edge of the C-sharp box?
27:30Alan Shearer:I don't know. That's an interesting question, isn't it? But, you know, if Isak was worth that, I think the big, big, big money bit has dipped a little bit, hasn't it, from the madness. I mean, it's still madness, but, yeah, I don't know. I think for two or three years, without blowing my own trumpet too much, I was probably the best number nine in the world. So, yeah. Between 150 and 200 is where you'd be. So, yeah, maybe. Maybe. The salary would have been quite good as well, wouldn't it? I'm sure you've done all right, Gus. We're doing all right. I'm not complaining. I mean, how much do you need anyway?
28:10Alan Shearer:You know, what do you need? Life is good. Feel blessed. Very lucky. Shall we take a break? And then when we come back, we'll go to a part that we've already done with Alan earlier today, which seems really odd. It's blown my mind. Bizarre. I think it sort of makes sense. Back shortly. This episode is brought to you by Squarespace. Building something off the field? Squarespace makes it easy. Their blueprint AI gets your website up in minutes and their design tools make it look pro. No tech skills needed. Sell merch, book clients, even run memberships all from one place. Head to squarespace.com slash football for a free trial.
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30:06Alan Shearer:Welcome back to The Rest is Football with Micah Richards and me, Gary Linneke, and now Alan Shearer. Alan you were with Micah last night on Match of the Day which I've watched I didn't watch it last night I watched it this morning and I don't know you were blocking each other on mid block oh honestly can you remember a couple of weeks ago when this idiot absolutely hammered me for the turnover of possession did you hear the shit he was coming out with last night if we didn't have in my ear saying, right guys, we have to move on now. I would have gone back at him and actually said, really? What the fuck is a high block, a mid block and a low block?
30:50The boffins have got you, Micah Richards. The boffins have got you, officially. Hey, the difference is between me and you, Al, they've taken me a long time ago. I don't mind being, I'm a new school. I'm part of a new school of pundits and you got caught in the trap. you're the one who was saying I would never say this I would never do this and I caught you in the act so don't come to me now I've admitted I'm that side of the fence can you explain to to us who are naive the high block and the mid block and the low block what is it in old school terms please
31:27Alan Shearer:well basically is it like closing down or sitting deep it was the Arsenal game wasn't it that you did you did all three in one piece of analysis which I thought was spectacular killer.
31:41Carry on. So basically, we know you're a dinosaur, Al, and you did your badges, what, 15 years ago, I'd say. And it is the same. I give you that. Okay. But the modern terminology is a press high or a high block is when you're trying to get the ball or you're pressing very high. The mid block is in the middle of the pitch and the low block is in is when you're sitting deep. Yeah, so it's the same thing, but different words.
32:12Alan Shearer:I think Alan's on the brink of blocking you. Oh, I love it. Brilliant. I mean, as we mentioned Arsenal, we might as well start with them. It's an obviously important result for them because they got themselves to the top of the table. And obviously City had already won and closed the gap a little bit, went ahead of them briefly. And actually, Bournemouth were top for a little while until the late equaliser from Mateta. But Arsenal, it wasn't probably the most free-flowing football, but I thought Fulham caused them a few problems with their blocks. But they got it done. They didn't create too many chances, but they're hard to score against Arsenal.
32:57They're brilliant. Great defensively. Three goals conceded, that's all this season. So that's a huge, huge strength of theirs. And obviously, as we know, set pieces and another one that's won them the game. So they're looking really, really strong. All I would say is, I mean, we're basically taking the piss about all the blocks. The point I was trying to make on Match of the Day yesterday was wherever they lose a ball, they always get back into shape very quickly. That could be the difference between them winning the league this year and not. They've been close the past couple of years. If I remember correctly, last season against Fulham, they drew that game 1-0 and the game was a bit of a stinker.
33:45This game was no better, really. I think Fulham, at times, were probably the better team in spells. but in terms of their defensive shape and everyone knowing their roles, I don't want to say it's Mourinho type because I feel like it's, and it's not even a disrespect, but they can adapt to what they need and that's going to set them in good stead for that title this season. I don't think that's been disrespectful. I mean, Mourinho's Chelsea's were absolutely outstanding. Outstanding. I mean, in terms of people just say, parking the bus. All of those things. I don't think you have to apologise to say that.
34:27I think that's a great treat to have.
34:29Alan Shearer:I thought Saka kind of epitomises the way they play, doesn't he as well? He's very creative at times, but also defensively, he works so hard up and down there. And he's feeling his way back, obviously, after being out for a little while. Yeah, there's no doubt. I think everyone puts a shift in. Even when Martinelli came on late on and they were under pressure last five minutes it was him that was left 1v1 in the box and he did his job and so yeah Saka's brilliant the work rate I think that's that is impressive in terms of that side of the game as I've seen for a long time and they're brilliant at it.
35:07Don't you think his decision making is just brilliant for Saka? Not he's just he's not that yeah Saka when he's when he's going forward he rarely misses a pass and if he does make a bad pass, he's trying to do something maybe spectacular. But if you look at his decision-making on the pitch, he's always in the right position. He can beat players, but he doesn't always take the risk if he doesn't have to. He keeps the ball more often than not and then he's decisive when he gets into the box and when he needs to. And I think when you compare him to other wingers, some wingers might be better on a one-on-one situation, but in terms of the consistency and his decision making he's up there one of the best in world football yeah
35:54Alan Shearer:what do you make of Giorcares Alan I mean he's going through a bit of a spell now I think in all comps six seven games without a goal and I think for Arsenal to really realise their ambitions potential call it what you like he's going to have to start scoring a lot of goals I think it's a big spell coming up for him over the next few games? Yeah, I mean, we had a discussion, not a big one last night, but we could only do it briefly. But I think they've paid too much for him. I don't, I wouldn't, I would say the same with Cesc at Manchester United. But I do think he brings something to the Arsenal team and he's going to have to score more goals, definitely.
36:40But I think one of his positives, one of his pluses for the Arsenal team is, is that he runs in behind, which then will help create space for others to exploit. But there's no doubt he's going to have to improve his numbers with the goals because we said it last season, what Arsenal needed, cried out for, is a goal scorer. Well, he's only got three up to now, but they are looking really impressive as a team. And I think he has added something different to the team. instead of coming short like Havert might or Mourinho might have, he offers something going the other way, which then opens up a little bit of space.
37:21Alan Shearer:Well, he needs to start scoring because I've brought him into my fantasy team. They've got Crystal Palace, Burnley and Sunderland the next three games, which is one of the reasons I've brought him in. Obviously, I don't care that much about Arsenal, but I do genuinely care about my fantasy team now, Mike, because it's this contagious thing that you've given to me. I told you, I told you, once you start, it makes or breaks. He was non-stop yesterday, Gaz. Honestly, it was like when Mateta and when Harlem were scoring. It was like someone had won the World Cup the way he was running around in the room and going berserk, screaming and shouting.
37:57I jumped up myself. You'd be careful jumping up quickly at your age, by the way. Eh? I said, Gaz, you better be careful jumping up quickly at his age.
38:07Alan Shearer:It's the only jumping I do nowadays.
38:12Just to mention something quickly, how do you say the Chelsea striker's name? Is it Guiyu, Guiyu, Guiyu?
38:22Alan Shearer:Guiyu, that's what they were saying in commentary, wasn't it? You had this last night. You have to take their word for it. Because I was doing a bit of analysis on it, guys. Honestly, it's like, how are we pronouncing it? What is it? Guiyu, Guiyu. and I he said to me I kept on asking the guys when the match was on during the show right is this are you sure that's how yeah that's and I said I said it and I was concentrating so much I actually got it right and my pronunciation was correct and all I could see was this idiot sat on my left hand side going he's laughing his absolute head off going I was saying it's so hard to concentrate he was praying for me to mess up because the concentration was the best I've ever seen.
39:05He didn't care what he was saying in his clip. I've got to get this name right. And he absolutely nailed it. But I'm laughing at his concentration. So then Gabby, who was presented, she gives me a little chuckle. At this point, I'm gone. And you know what? My big daft laugh is like, I was trying my hardest to keep silent. And Alan's doing his piece. and oh yeah it was I nearly laughed out loud during the show I really had to contain myself it was a funny moment we should get on to
39:40Alan Shearer:Chelsea and the performance of Giu big win for Chelsea but the story from that game is obviously the Ange Postacoglu I mean what was it five what was it five Premier League games and obviously a few other games clearly hadn't got a victory I thought you you said it perfectly both of you on Match of the Day that, I mean, how can you possibly judge someone over that shorter time, particularly when you know you've brought in someone that plays with a completely different style of play to the previous incumbent? Now, it beggars belief, really. It beggars belief, but at the same time, I wasn't the slightest bit surprised.
40:26Alan Shearer:You know, the owner seems to be quite a volatile character. and makes kind of very quick, rash decisions. I would imagine, you know, he will never admit it in a million years that Nuno Espirito Santo would have been having a slight chuckle to himself without wishing in any ill on Ange Postacoglu. But, I mean, they've gone from being, haven't they, to the end of last season. A club that's qualified for Europe, had an incredible season, played some brilliant stuff, mostly counterattacking football that had worked. And then obviously a little fallout between the owner and the manager and maybe the director of football that they brought in, Edu.
41:13Alan Shearer:Clearly something gone on there. And then the owner, probably, I mean, it's his football club. Well, it's not really. It shouldn't be. It's the fans football club, but you know what I mean. And it's always the coach to blame. So, Pabrinsingan, totally different style of play and expects things to turn around in 10 minutes. It's not going to happen. Where does he go next after this? I mean, Sean Dyche, by the look of it, but that's another different style. Yeah, I think five league games of which, there was an international break over that period of time as well, wasn't there? So, yeah, it's crazy.
41:50I mean, he has to accept the responsibility that he's made a huge error in doing what he did, appointing him and then not giving him the time but I'm like you it doesn't surprise us what happens and you knew I think he left his seat didn't the owner with about 25 minutes to go and you just knew
42:07Alan Shearer:I thought to myself he's gone he's doomed unless they turn this around in this game he's doomed you even got the sense that even if they had a won yesterday and then they lost next week you'd think it just never worked unfortunately but there's no doubt I guess when did he speak to Ange? When has he spoken to the new manager that's going to come in? So there's no doubt he's been speaking to managers, I guess. But that's the way football works, isn't it? You know the rules and you know that you're going into that club that it is volatile. Well, any football club, if you don't get results, then you're not going to keep your job.
42:46Yeah, agreed. The thing is, and you guys have said it, 39 days. Yeah. For 39 days is all a manager had. And Al mentioned it. That's including international break. I think we're living in a world which is a bit scary now. The way football's going, it's just, it's not a game that I'm enjoying by decisions. And I'm not just talking about the managers losing their jobs because it's happened before. We have put a list up on match today, mainly interim managers. in all honesty. But even just like the referees have so much power. Managers are not getting enough time. It seems as though the disconnect between the players and the fans, because on one hand, you've got fans who can't afford to go to all the games.
43:39There's too much football, but the clubs need it because of financial benefits. I just think we're losing what we all love at this moment in time. And of course, football needs to be driven to whatever heights it needs to be. But I feel like we're losing the identity a little bit. And after seeing the news yesterday, I was just thinking to myself, the game is officially going. I'm not saying it's gone, but it's going.
44:09Alan Shearer:It's officially going. I think the sport needs to be really careful. Correct. It's slipping in terms. I still think we see wonderful performances and great games. And ultimately, we want to watch the football and we see it. But they've got to... There are a number of things. They need to correct VAR. That's coming. They're already trialling now a thing that I've been obviously championing for a long time in the Peel system. I think they're doing it in the... Was it on the Under-20 World Cup or something? They're trialling it. I'm not sure. So that will help because you're quite right. The referees have taken over the game.
44:45Alan Shearer:I know that sounds a bit silly and it is. and they haven't, but they are having way too much impact because they're not only determining the decisions on the pitch, they're determining the rules off the pitch. My referee's been in charge of that, which is, I think, not right. So hopefully that'll get changed. And the connect between football clubs and fans is really, really, this is the most important thing for me. The ticket pricing, the way fans are treated when they travel, all these sorts of things that we see, The disrespect for football fans, I think, is something that the game really needs to monitor.
45:22Alan Shearer:There's huge amounts of money in football through television rights, mostly sponsorships, etc. Hugely wealthy owners of football clubs. But what we really must guard against is particularly looking after football fans and ticket pricing. because ticket pricing, they've got to keep, I mean, it's spiralling and you're pricing out the real football fans and football without fans in the stadium, then you can call it officially going, Mike. You can say it's officially going at that point because that would be a problem because football without fans, as we saw during the COVID era, does not work and the television numbers will go down and then you've got big problems.
46:08Alan Shearer:So I think football needs to be very wary of itself at the moment. And I know that sounds a bit dramatic, but I think there's a sense of truth in that. You've got to keep the football fans engaged because they love this sport and you've got to be fair to them. Well said, boys. Manchester City, I mean, you were jumping out your chair at Haaland's two goals. He probably should have had three or four, but that's often the case, isn't it? With strikers, you've got to be in there to miss them. And he is a brilliant finisher. I mean, he's a powerful, he's a powerful machine. He's a beast. He really is.
46:40I'll let you go ahead with this, Alan, as a striker talking about. Well, I just said, if you're building the centre forward from scratch and you can make him into whatever you want, then he's not too far away from being perfect, I think. He's got almost everything that you need. The tools to be a top class. He's a fantastic talent. You know what I liked about him, Aldo? Because do you remember last season when he was getting a little bit frustrated? I did it on match today about the defender sort of playing up against him. But if you watched Haaland, you watch his game all the time. What he used to do is when the ball was on one side, it always used to go to the back post.
47:21Always used to go to the back post. All the time. And then at Dortmund and when he was at Salzburg, he used to get them runs in behind because the game was open. Now, what he did yesterday, I was astounded because he's got so many different things to his game now. And it's only little things. He's always had movement in a certain type of way. So in behind, sort of running between defenders, knowing. But the way he pulled off for both goals and he made the defender think about what to do. And I've not seen that before.
48:00Alan Shearer:I'm going to interrupt you there, Michael. Just to say, I watched your analysis. I thought it was brilliant the way you did it because you did it from a defender's point of view about how Harlem made it so difficult for them. And if you haven't seen it, I'd recommend you to watch that on iPlayer because I thought it was really good. A good angle of doing it because of a way of thinking about it because obviously you said you've got Alan next to you that could explain the strikers movement. But you're absolutely spot on with it. Yeah, it was ridiculous me trying to talk about a striker. Obviously, I can talk about strikers' runs and all that sort of stuff, but you've got Allen in the studio.
48:34But I was thinking, because you know when you're watching a clip or you're watching certain things materialise, the defender's doing all the right things and still can't stop him. So that's when a striker becomes unplayable in this form. And because he's now changed some certain parts of his runs, you can't mark him. Micah, I don't know whether it's just me or not, but I think more so than ever this season, Man City are playing to Erland Holland in terms of his strengths. When he, look, he's always been an amazing goal scorer and always will be. But I think because his numbers are off the charts this season, that they actually are, it's more about Erling this season than it's ever been in terms of getting it to him, getting it into the box early, getting balls into the box, getting runs in behind and then finding him rather than pass, pass, pass.
49:28I think there's more evidence of that this season than we've ever seen. Totally agree. There was a couple, he scored a couple, but then there's three other examples, which I didn't actually show last night. But as soon as he got the ball in the mid-block, he was gone. He was gone, wasn't he? And they've definitely been told, played the ball early. I totally, totally agree, Alan.
49:49Alan Shearer:The other aspect of it, which is not a technical aspect or a movement aspect, but Alan will absolutely, totally agree with me here. You could see his desire to score goals, that hunger to score goals by how disappointed he was at the end of the game and how he was having a tantrum with himself because he didn't score number three and what could have been number four. Great attitude. Yeah, absolutely how he should be. Only three times has a player scored 10 or more goals in their first eight games of the Premier League, all three of them, Erling Haaland. not even you Al no brilliant not even you Al didn't even make the list he didn't no he didn't Palace game was tasty wasn't it well you mentioned the guy who was disappointed Mateta was devastated with his hat trick I mean he wasn't he was just devastated I'm quite rightly so because he would have won the game but he was I've never seen someone look so disappointed when they're walking off with a match ball but I can understand his frustration because he probably missed the easiest one with the last kick of the game to win it 4-3 but But it was a brilliant game.
50:54Two very, very good teams who anyone going up against Bournemouth and Palace this season know they're in for a tough, tough game because they've got some really, really good players. Can I just ask you two guys, strikers, Mateta, and I think you said a match to the Vale, he probably missed the easiest one. What did he do wrong in that? Because I think I know, but what did he do wrong? Leaning back, wasn't he? He didn't, it just, I mean, I thought it fell nicely for him because it sort of, it bounced about two yards in front and it was there perfectly hit, but he just leaning right back, wasn't he?
51:26Alan Shearer:I'll tell you what he did wrong, Micah, and I see this quite often when the ball's coming across quite quickly like that. What you've got to do in those circumstances, one thing you must do is keep it down, right? That is because the only danger of missing that, unless the keeper makes some sort of miraculous save, is hitting it over the bar, which is easily done. So the problem with people is they still want to put their foot through the ball. let the ball hit your foot and then you'll have an angle that will keep it down. And I used to concentrate on that a lot in training, but crossing balls in with them and when they're bouncing, you just let it hit you.
52:04Alan Shearer:Now you won't get as much pace on the ball, but you don't need it as particularly when a cross is hitting at reasonable pace. So that's the thing. He went through it and he followed through instead of just stopping and like stunning it and just letting it hit your foot and go down because the angle of the foot will be above the ball. so therefore it will stay low. And I thought technically got that. And automatically, that does keep your head over the ball rather than leaning back, Alan said as well. He's a handful, I know that. Oh God, isn't he a handful? Just on that before you go and get that.
52:34Okay, so does your technique change in the way you hit the ball depending on the minute? So that was last kick of the game. So the pressure, is he under more pressure himself? Of course, as fans are looking at, oh, he can score a last minute winner. Of course. But is he feeling more pressure? Did he not go with the technique you said, Gaz, because of the fact that he was rushing it
53:03Alan Shearer:or was it just... I don't think so. Okay. I just, who knows? I mean, he scored hat-trick, so he's going to be full of confidence. It's not like he's tentative. I just think he's gone too, he's just gone too vigorously at it. Let the ball hit you. So he's tried to hit it with a bit of pace but I doubt he wouldn't have even had the time to get nervous over something like that even if he was that kind of player so I just think Kruppi deserves a mention as well for Bournemouth two goals on his first start what a start yeah brilliant first start so two goals he'll be feeling high as a kite as well won't he yeah certainly will let's finish here with well three of the promoted clubs Burnley of course beat Leeds huge win for them and Sunderland won again At home.
53:50Alan Shearer:At home. Strong three wins and a draw at home for Sunderland. Brilliant. We always, I mean, it doesn't take a genius to work it out, but we all said, didn't we, their home form, all three of them are going to be really key. And Sunderland winning again, Burnley beating Leeds was a massive result for them. It got them out of the bottom three. So I think all three will be reasonably pleased. Sunderland will be ecstatic. They should be. None of them are in the bottom three, are they? Sunderland will be ecstatic whether they start that. they've made but I think anyone going to Sunderland will know well all three of them actually because even the way Burnley play and Ellen Road it is so I think it's yeah nothing's changed my mind that their home form is going to be key and has been already.
54:33Yeah totally agree and I think as well and not just on Match of the Day or not the platforms that we work on I think we need a more detailed sort of look at Sunderland because we've given them a lot a praise, but we've not broke down exactly what they do, because remember when Forest brought all them players, I was thinking is this going to work? But they brought up, what was it, 161 million worth of players, 14 players, and they've managed to gel so quick. So we had Sunderland struggling, or I did, certainly because of the amount of players thinking would it be too much players, too much of a bigger change?
55:14But the managers managed to get them all playing. Of course, he's brought some experienced signings who could go straight in. But I think Sunderland need a little bit more of a deep dive. Well, we'll let you do that, Micah, rather than me.
55:30Alan Shearer:A word on Burnley. Again, they've got to make that home turf more as difficult place to play. 31 % possession, you know, they had at home. They had, I think Leeds had 17 shots or efforts from inside the box. 21 shots. Old Newcastle goalie did well, didn't he? Yeah, he did, yeah. The Bravka, I thought, was good. But that's the way they play, isn't it? And what a goal, by the way. And how do we say this young man's name? Lou Chawana or Chawuna? Chawana. Chawana. I heard the commentator say that, Chawana. So, yeah. Great name, great goal. Yeah, great goal. Fantastic. Splendid, absolutely. Yeah, just a quick bit on the game.
56:12Leeds totally dominated. Yeah. They didn't take the chances. I remember Arison went through, hit the post, and then the right-back Bogle with the opportunity late in the game. But yeah, Burnley was a bit more concise in the key moments.
56:29Alan Shearer:Okay, that's it for this week's episode of the Rest is Football. So goodbye from me. Goodbye from me. Goodbye from me. Have a great week.
56:42You
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Can Man Utd maintain that level after their best performance under Ruben Amorim? Where do Nottingham Forest go next after creating such a volatile situation around Ange Postecoglou? Why were the guys so impressed with Jean-Philippe Mateta, despite him missing a late chance to win the game in a thriller against Bournemouth?
Gary, Alan and Micah also discuss how Man City are finally playing to the real strengths of Erling Haaland and why that makes them so dangerous once again.
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