Football Daily

John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball talk football, travel & language. Ali reveals what life is like in the Arctic as he watches Tottenham in Bodø. The panel react to Arsenal crashing out of the Champions League. Will John end his losing run in Clash of the Commentators? And which football commentary terms will be added or removed from the Great Glossary of Football Commentary?

WhatsApp voicenotes to 08000 289 369 Emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk

00:55 Ali in the Arctic 11:30 Arsenal knocked out by PSG 18:15 Looking ahead to PSG-Inter UCL final 21:05 Commentary terms for selling a dummy 23:00 5 Live commentaries this weekend 26:20 Arteta: ‘We have two Premier League titles’ 29:20 Clash of the Commentators goes Norwegian 35:35 Plot thickens on ‘where the owl sleeps’ 40:00 Ian uses ‘stanchion’ in Man Utd commentary 41:15 Ali uses ‘thrown his cap on it’ in Tottenham commentary 43:00 Will anything be added to the Great Glossary?

BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League weekend commentaries: Sat 1500 Southampton v Man City, Sat 1730 Bournemouth v Aston Villa, Sun 1415 Nottingham Forest v Leicester, Sun 1415 Man Utd v West Ham on Radio 5 Sports Extra, Sun 1415 Tottenham v Crystal Palace on BBC Sport website, Sun 1630 Liverpool v Arsenal.

John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball have their weekly catch-up to talk about their love of football, travel and language. Ian reflects on his commentary of Liverpool winning the Premier League title. Ali is packing his bags for the Arctic. Will John be packing his bags in Clash of the Commentators? Which football terms will be added to the Great Glossary of Football Commentary? And an announcement of sorts…

WhatsApp voicenotes to 08000 289 369 Emails to TCV@bbc.co.uk

01:15 John enjoys lawn bowls ‘drama’ 03:50 Correspondent vs senior reporter 08:10 Ian’s Liverpool title reflections 15:05 Champions League semis finely poised 19:50 5 Live commentaries this weekend 22:35 Ali preparing for the Arctic circle 28:30 Tense low-scoring Clash of the Commentators 35:25 More disputed terms in the Great Glossary 44:15 Potentially very exciting news

BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League weekend commentaries: Sat 1500 Everton v Ipswich, Sat 1730 Arsenal v Bournemouth, Sun 1200 Man Utd v Man City in the WSL on Radio 5 Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Brighton v Newcastle, Sun 1400 Brentford v Man Utd on Radio 5 Sports Extra, Sun 1400 West Ham v Tottenham on BBC Sport website, Sun 1630 Chelsea v Liverpool.

Recently retired assistant referee Darren Cann joins Mark Chapman, Steph Houghton, Chris Sutton and Rory Smith on the Monday Night Club to provide some amazing insight into life on the touchline. Among other things, he discusses his career - explaining what a week in his life looked like. He also explains how VAR has changed the role of an assistant referee and explains how officials block out hostility from players and fans. And - the big question - is Chris Sutton or Darren Cann a better footballer? Oh - and how many miles has he run sideways? The answer is really rather amazing.

Timecodes: 00:31 Darren Cann's background. 07:46 How do referees analyse their performances? 12:20 Has VAR changed the role of an assistant referee? How do referees communicate? 18:36 Darren's best moments and the 2010 World Cup. 22:20 How do assistant referees train and what skills do they need? 25:28 What is a refereeing team like and why is a good relationship with that team so important?

BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this week: Tue 20:00 - Arsenal v PSG in the UEFA Champions League. Wed 20:15 - Man Utd v Chelsea in the Women’s Super League. Thu 20:00 - Athletic Club v Man Utd in the UEFA Europa League. Thu 20:00 - Tottenham v Bodø/Glimt in the UEFA Europa League.

In June 2004, Jose Mourinho made headlines around the world by claiming ‘I think I’m a special one’ at his unveiling as Chelsea manager. Just under a year later, he lifted the Premier League trophy for the first time, delivering Chelsea their first league title in 50 years. Robert Huth was part of the Chelsea defence that conceded only 15 goals in the league that season – and he joins Mark Chapman, Chris Sutton and Rory Smith 20 years later to reflect on an incredible achievement. They look back on Jose Mourinho’s management style – what was it like to be coached by him? Can he be credited with bringing the 4-3-3 to English football? Hear from midfielder Claude Makelele on his role within the team and from Sir Alex Ferguson on his rivalry with Jose Mourinho. They also discuss what nearly became a domestic treble for Mourinho in his first year in English football, and remember one of the Premier League’s most memorable seasons.

John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball discuss Liverpool and Celtic being on the verge of titles. They’re joined by Conor McNamara after he went viral for his 5 Live Man Utd-Lyon commentary. Will Ali be toppled by Ian in Clash of the Commentators? How high will the high bar be for the Great Glossary of Football Commentary? And John bowls us over with his plans for the weekend in London.

01:30 Liverpool and Celtic on the verge of titles 06:10 Conor McNamara reflects on going viral 25:15 Some big 5 Live commentaries this weekend 33:35 More Clash of the Commentators controversy? 41:25 Will anything be added to the Great Glossary? 53:35 John reveals his exciting weekend plans

BBC Sounds / 5 Live / Radio 5 Sports Extra weekend commentaries: Sat 1500 Newcastle v Ipswich in the Premier League, Sat 1715 Crystal Palace v Aston Villa in the FA Cup semis, Sun 1400 Bournemouth v Man Utd in the Premier League, Sun 1400 Chelsea v Barcelona in the Women’s Champions League, Sun 1630 Liverpool v Tottenham in the Premier League, Sun 1630 Nottingham Forest v Man City in the FA Cup semis.

The former Chelsea midfielder Claude Makelele sits down with Nedum Onuoha to talk through the Frenchman's career. Makelele describes his time at Chelsea and experiences under Jose Mourinho, as well as his most challenging opponents in the Premier League. And we also find out how he was close to becoming a winger and not a defensive midfielder.

TIMECODES 00:10 What was it like joining Chelsea? 02:30 Playing under Jose Mourinho 07:00 Claude Makelele - the winger? 16:00 Toughest opponents in the Premier League.

BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this weekend: Sat 1230 Arsenal women v Lyon in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, Sat 1500 Everton v Man City in the Premier League, Sat 1730 Aston Villa v Newcastle in the Premier League, Sun 1400 Ipswich v Ipswich in the Premier League, Sun 1400 Man Utd v Wolves on Radio 5 Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Fulham v Chelsea on BBC Sport website, Sun 1630 Leicester v Liverpool in the Premier League.

It's a full house as Ali Bruce-Ball returns with John Murray & Ian Dennis. Ali gives a behind the scenes insight to Masters golf commentary at Augusta. What about Arsenal beating Real Madrid and making it through to the Champions League semi-finals? Will John bounce back in Clash of the Commentators? And we need your help when it comes to the Great Glossary of Football Commentary! E-mail: tcv@bbc.co.uk Voicenotes on WhatsApp to: 08000 289 369

02:40 Ali is back from seeing McIlroy make history 11:50 Getting emotional on commentary 16:00 Arsenal progress to Champions League semi-finals 21:45 Will Forest get ‘swallowed up’ in race for UCL? 27:05 Liverpool could win title this weekend 30:00 Clash of the Commentators 38:05 Great Glossary of Football Commentary 51:45 More football lookalikes

BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this weekend: Sat 1230 Arsenal women v Lyon in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, Sat 1500 Everton v Man City in the Premier League, Sat 1730 Aston Villa v Newcastle in the Premier League, Sun 1400 Ipswich v Ipswich in the Premier League, Sun 1400 Man Utd v Wolves on Radio 5 Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Fulham v Chelsea on BBC Sport website, Sun 1630 Leicester v Liverpool in the Premier League.

In the final episode of the mini-series on How To Win The Champions League, we hear from two-time winner Jose Mourinho.

He talks us through his victories with Porto in 2004 and Inter Milan in 2010, as well as some of his near-misses at Real Madrid

Mourinho explains why the competition is so important to him and how he built relationships with some of Europe's leading players over the past two decades.

A BBC iPlayer documentary accompanies this episode: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m00276py/how-to-win-the-champions-league

Episode 1: How to win the Champions League: Real Madrid - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0kkgyws Episode 2: How to win the Champions League: Liverpool 2019 - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0l2mjj1

TIMECODES 04:20 Winning the 2004 Champions League with Porto. 14:15 Building an Inter Milan team to win the Champions League in 2010. 29:40 How he uses psychology to motivate his players 33:45 Why the Champions League matters to him

Anthony Elanga chats to Dion Dublin about life at Nottingham Forest, working under Nuno Espirito Santo and the secret to Forest's consistency.

He also discusses moving to England at 11, his development at Manchester United and his hopes of playing in the Champions League with Forest.

Topics: 00:15 - Early years in Malmo 02:41 - Moving to England at 11and signing for Manchester United 06:36 - Moving to Nottingham Forest and personal development 10:15 - Working under Nuno Espirito Santo 12:09 - The City Ground is "the best atmosphere I've played in" 13:32 - His goal against Manchester United 16:56 - The secret to Forest's consistency 19:22 - Dressing room camaraderie 20:41 - Playing in the Champions League 21:23 - Hopes for the rest of the season

BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 1500 Nottingham Forest v Everton Sat 1730 Arsenal v Brentford Sun 1400 Liverpool v West Ham Sun 1400 Chelsea v Ipswich on 5 Sports Extra Sun 1400 Wolves v Tottenham on the BBC Sport website Sun 1630 Newcastle v Man Utd

Conor McNamara joins John Murray & Ian Dennis to talk commentary life as Mo Salah signs Liverpool deal. John reveals how he ended up in a French ambulance in midweek. Conor reflects on nearly getting stuck on his way to replace John in Paris. And Ian talks through his memorable line, ‘Rice Rice baby’. All that plus a tasty Clash of the Commentators and more additions to the Great Glossary of Football Commentary.

E-mail: tcv@bbc.co.uk Voicenotes on WhatsApp to: 08000 289 369

01:45 Mo Salah signs new Liverpool deal 04:45 John talks about ending up in a French ambulance 11:30 Conor nearly gets stuck en route to PSG 14:40 Ian’s ‘Rice Rice baby’ 21:25 What goal celebrations would the guys perform? 24:40 Ian speaks out about the Crystal Palace restricted view 27:50 Ian tests Pat Nevin’s patience with ‘transition’ 31:15 Clash of the Commentators gets tasty 41:40 What will be added to the Great Glossary?

BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 1500 Nottingham Forest v Everton, Sat 1730 Arsenal v Brentford, Sun 1400 Liverpool v West Ham, Sun 1400 Chelsea v Ipswich on Radio 5 Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Wolves v Tottenham on BBC Sport website, Sun 1630 Newcastle v Man Utd.

After the Manchester Derby turned into a damp squib, Mark Chapman, Chris Sutton, Rory Smith and Michael Brown discuss whether over-coaching, micro-management and a fear making mistakes has become an "illness in the game". They also ask why derbies have seemingly lost their spark.

And after Ivan Juric left Southampton following their relegation, Glen de la Cour from the Total Saints podcast joins the MNC to discuss where the Saints go from here.

Topics: 03:14 - What next for Southampton? 12:40 - Glen de la Cour from the Total Saints podcast 20:01 - Why won't promoted clubs adapt their style of play to suit the Premier League? 34:08 - Is modern Premier League football rubbish? 40:19 - Have derbies lost their spark? 48:44 - Where do you draw the line between coaching and micro-management?

BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this week:

Arsenal v Real Madrid - Champions League - 20:00 - Tuesday 8th April PSG v Aston Villa - Champions League - 20:00 - Wednesday 9th April Lyon v Man Utd - Europa League - 20:00 - Thursday 10th April Forest v Everton - Premier League - 15:00 - Saturday 12th April Arsenal v Brentford - Premier League - 17:30 - Saturday 12th April Liverpool v West Ham - Premier League - 14:00 - Sunday 13th April Newcastle v Man Utd - Premier League - 16:30 - Sunday 13th April

BBC Sounds / 5 Sports Extra commentaries this week:

Belgium v England - Nations League - 19:30 - Tuesday 8th April Chelsea v Ipswich - Premier League - 14:00 - Sunday 13th April Wolves v Spurs - Premier League - 14:00 - Sunday 13th April

In the latest episode of our mini-series on how to win the Champions League, Andy Robertson and Alisson look back on Liverpool’s win in the 2019 edition.

They talk us through the dramatic run through the group stages and the iconic semi-final comeback against Barcelona.

We get insight into how Jurgen Klopp inspired his team to win the tournament, why he was a father-figure to the squad and what it was like to receive a Klopp hug.

They also explain why it was so emotional on the pitch after the final victory over Tottenham in Madrid.

A BBC iPlayer documentary, featuring exclusive interviews and insight, is available to watch: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m00276py/how-to-win-the-champions-league

Episode 1: How to win the Champions League: Real Madrid - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0kkgyws

TIMECODES 02:00 The dramatic run through the earlier rounds, including THAT comeback v Barcelona 11:00 Pre-match ahead of the final – Jurgen Klopp and walking on the pitch 17:00 The emotional scenes after winning the final 21:00 Jurgen Klopp and his relationship with Liverpool

John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball talk commentary life. From Ian’s penchant for pies at Celtic to whether the ‘dull’ Premier League should have play-offs to make it more interesting. One listener sets a new record for clubs with a slash in their names, and there’s a whole heap of controversy in a Clash of the Commentators basement battle. Plus, BBC Sport chief football writer Phil McNulty joins for the Great Glossary of Football Commentary.

02:55 Who ate all the pies? 05:40 Would Arsenal fans rather have Saka or Gabriel? 11:35 5 Live’s weekend commentaries 14:10 Should the ‘dull’ Premier League have play-offs? 20:35 A new record for clubs with a slash in their names 28:10 Controversy in Clash of the Commentators 37:20 Phil McNulty joins for the Great Glossary

BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this weekend: Fri 2000 England women v Belgium in the UEFA Women's Nations League, Fri 1915 Wales women v Denmark on the BBC Sport website, Sat 1500 Crystal Palace v Brighton in the Premier League, Sat 1730 Aston Villa v Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, Sun 1400 Fulham v Liverpool in the Premier League, Sun 1400 Brentford v Chelsea on Radio 5 Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Tottenham v Southampton on the BBC Sport website, Sun 1630 Man Utd v Man City in the Premier League.

Chelsea and England defender Lucy Bronze speaks exclusively to Alex Scott about her experience being autistic and living with ADHD.

Lucy's mum, Diane, had long suspected she may be autistic, but it wasn't until four years ago that Bronze was officially diagnosed as being autistic and living with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

Lucy has had outstanding success as a footballer, both at home and abroad, and during this chat she tells Alex how being neurodivergent has impacted her life both on and off the pitch and why some of her differences have been her strengths.

TIMECODES: 1:02 - On being diagnosed as autistic and ADHD four years ago. 3:13 - The process of getting diagnosed 5:00 - On her most notable neurodivergent traits 7:10 - Do her teammates know? 9:20 - Being ‘obsessed’ with football and how her differences have been her strengths. 10:26 - How does it affect her on the football pitch? 12:25 - Masking and copying the behaviours of Jill Scott. 15:54 - Her experiences of playing abroad and being in diverse environments. 16:50 - Being a role model to younger players 19:55 - On the diagnosis helping to understand who she is, not change who she is. 22:25 - Why is she ready to talk about it now? 24:45 - Becoming an ambassador for the National Autistic Society to help with "raising awareness" and "getting rid of the stigma" around it.

The trio are back together as John Murray, Ian Dennis & Ali Bruce-Ball talk commentary life. Expect more football lookalikes, a tight Clash of the Commentators and which football terms will make it into the Great Glossary of Football Commentary?

04:35 More clubs with a slash in their name 07:50 The famous ‘One team in Tallinn’ match 11:20 Another soundalike to test your ears 17:15 An update on the Golden Mic goal ratios 20:05 Ali explains his ‘Bruce-Burglar’ nickname 25:00 Ian looking forward to a Celtic pie 31:20 The guys are ‘all back’ for Clash of the Commentators 37:50 Another ‘top corner’ term goes in the Great Glossary

BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this weekend: Sat 1215 Fulham v Crystal Palace in the FA Cup, Sat 1500 Celtic v Hearts in the Scottish Premiership, Sat 1715 Brighton v Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup, Sun 1330 Preston v Aston Villa in the FA Cup.

Sir Kenny Dalglish, Chris Sutton and Alan Shearer are among the guests as Kelly Cates looks back on Blackburn's famous title win in 1995.

Midfielder Mark Atkins explains how the club was rejuvenated by owner Jack Walker's investment, while Rob Coar, then club chairman, gives the view from the boardroom.

And is it fair to say the club bought the title? Football finance expert Kieran Maguire goes through the figures.

TIMECODES 10:00 Mark Atkins on Blackburn's redevelopment; 15:20 Alan Shearer on his famous partnership with Chris Sutton; 29:00 Sir Kenny Dalglish's reflections as manager; 50:00 Robert Coar's view from the boardroom 01:05:00 Kieran Maguire on Blackburn's finances that season.

John Murray & Ian Dennis are joined by former BBC Wales football correspondent Rob Phillips. They discuss his journey following the Wales national team and seeing Gareth Bale’s rise from the youth team. Herr Chapman claims another sticky-handed victim dipping into their sweets on the radio. More football lookalikes, England v Wales in Clash of the Commentators and there’s a high bar to get into the Great Glossary of Football Commentary.

03:00 Rob Phillips’ journey following Wales 09:50 Following Gareth Bale’s rise from the start 19:50 Herr Chapman is at it again… 21:40 John’s Mike Gatting incident 24:05 More football lookalikes & soundalikes 29:10 Play-by-play commentary sharing 36:20 England v Wales in Clash of the Commentators 45:20 What will enter the Great Glossary?

BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this weekend: Fri 1945 England v Albania in World Cup qualifier, Sun 1430 Man City v Chelsea in the Women’s Super League, Mon 1945 England v Latvia in World Cup qualifier.

NFL legend and Burnley co-owner JJ Watt chats to Mark Chapman. They discuss everything from bench pressing with the Burnley players to the uncertainty of the NFL draft. Watt opens up on why he decided to invest in Burnley – and why once he did so, he was determined to win over the fans, just as he did after moving to Houston as an American footballer. They also discuss goalkeeper James Trafford, the difference between sports that do and do not have relegation and the contrasting schedule between the NFL and the EFL.

TIMECODES 0 mins: JJ’s interest in learning about the business of football 4 mins: The importance of community when you join a club 5 mins: The danger element of investing in a sport that has relegation 8 mins: The insight that JJ can offer the board as a former professional athlete. 12 mins: James Trafford – and the art of goalkeeping 16 mins: The difference in football and NFL schedules 19 mins: JJ’s experiences in the NFL draft 25 mins: The big salaries paid to sportsmen and how they handle them 26 mins: The importance of giving back

5 Live/Sports Extra Commentaries this week:

Wednesday 19th March – Manchester City v Chelsea – Women’s Champions League Quarter Final – 8pm KO on 5 Live Thursday 20th March – Greece v Scotland – Nations League – 7.45pm KO on 5 Live Friday 21st March – England v Albania – World Cup Qualifier – 7.45pm KO on 5 Live

Is the tension between World Cup co-hosts USA, Canada and Mexico a concern? Can Comoros complete the ultimate underdog story? Plus, will Chris Wood and Erling Haaland be firing in the goals for New Zealand and Norway next year?

Kelly Cates and Rory Smith get our countdown to 2026 underway in Destination New Jersey.

JT Batson, CEO & Secretary General of the US Soccer Federation, joins us to discuss their preparations for the tournament. Former New Zealand manager, Ricki Herbert, talks up their chances of making it to next summer’s World Cup 16 years after he guided them to South Africa.

President of the Norwegian Football Association, Lise Klaveness, explains the pressure on them to ensure Erling Haaland and their talented generation can reach the finals.

And we’re joined by former Wolves boss Stefano Cusin as he bids to take Comoros to their first World Cup.

TIMECODES: 02:10 - JT Batson – CEO & Secretary General of US Soccer Federation 17:50 - Stefano Cusin – Comoros manager 26:19 – Ricki Herbert – Former New Zealand manager 39:36 – Lise Klaveness – President of the Norwegian Football Association.

Commentaries on 5 Live/BBC Sounds: Wednesday: Manchester City v Chelsea - Women's Champions League (8pm) Thursday: Greece v Scotland - Men's Nations League play-off (7:45pm) Friday: England v Albania - Men's World Cup 2026 qualifying (7:45pm) Sunday: Manchester City v Chelsea - Women's Super League (2:30pm)

When did Dan Burn find out he was in the running for a place in the England squad? And how did Thomas Tuchel break the ice with Morgan Gibbs-White to call him up having initially left him out of the 26-man squad?

Both Burn and Gibbs-White have been speaking to John Murray, who’s with Ian Dennis at St George’s Park for a first glimpse of Thomas Tuchel’s England.

TIMECODES: 02:08 – Dan Burn Interview 07:10 – Is Tuchel looking for character in his call ups? 07:45 – Which Under 21s trained with the England squad? 08:29 – What’s different at St George’s Park under Tuchel? 12:45 – Morgan Gibbs White interview 18:47 – Just 24 training sessions to the 2026 World Cup?

In an exclusive interview with BBC Morning Live’s Helen Skelton, Michail opens up about just how badly injured he was, what he remembers of the day, how his children have been shielded from the worst of the news, and why he is so certain he will play at the highest level in the near future.

Rick Edwards heads to Brentford’s training ground to speak to head coach Thomas Frank and the club’s psychologist Michael Caulfield.

They sit down in the manager’s office to discuss the evolution of psychology in football, dealing with the extreme highs and lows and unique pressures.

Thomas Frank was appointed Bees boss back in October 2018 making him the second longest serving manager in the Premier League behind Pep Guardiola. As well as Brentford Michael Caulfield has worked with a number of other football clubs and managers including Gareth Southgate and a wide range of other sports from horseracing to darts.

Conor McNamara returns with Ian Dennis and Ali Bruce-Ball to tell the stories behind the 5 Live commentaries. On the agenda this week: being late for games, who brings the sweets and what it’s like splitting a commentary between commentators. What will be added/removed when it comes to the Great Glossary? And a new record is set in Clash of the Commentators!

02:00 Conor recounts his first 5 Live commentary 03:25 How did Ali fare with his new glasses? 04:25 Who is Chris Sutton’s lookalike? 05:45 Man Utd turn another corner? 07:15 Sweets during commentary 10:35 Being late for commentaries 17:20 More lookalikes and soundalikes 20:45 Conor goes ‘back to the future’ 25:30 Clash of the Commentators 32:20 Commentators splitting a commentary 40:35 Great Glossary of Football Commentary

BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 1500 Ipswich v Nottingham Forest, Sat 1730 Bournemouth v Brentford, Sun 1330 Arsenal v Chelsea, Sun 1330 Fulham v Tottenham on 5 Sports Extra, Sun 1630 Liverpool v Newcastle in the EFL Cup final, Sun 1900 Leicester v Man Utd.

Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe sits down exclusively with BBC Sports Editor Dan Roan. They discuss his ‘challenging’ first year at the club, manager Ruben Amorim, the club’s finances, ticket price rises, his cost-cutting programme, plans for a new stadium and more. Find more on this interview across the BBC Sport website and app and watch the conversation on BBC iPlayer.

BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this week: Tue 11 Mar 2000 Liverpool v PSG in the Champions League, Wed 12 Mar 2000 Aston Villa v Club Brugge in the Champions League, Thu 13 Mar 2000 Man Utd v Real Sociedad in the Europa League.

Clive Myrie tells the football story of the century: the rise of Manchester City and the Premier League allegations of financial rule-breaking that threaten to bring the club crashing down. Football on Trial is a Tortoise Media production for BBC Sounds and BBC Radio 5 Live.

Dion Dublin visits Coventry City's training ground to speak with manager Frank Lampard.

The Sky Blues find themselves 5th in the Championship, with eight wins in their last nine games, having been 17th in the table when Lampard took charge.

He talks about benefiting from 18 months out of management, his previous jobs, his time at Coventry so far and ambitions for the final 11 games of the season.

Ian Dennis is back with John Murray & Ali Bruce-Ball to tell the stories behind the 5 Live commentaries. From John’s fancy food at PSG to seeing ‘episcopal purple’ in Notre-Dame. It’s Ian vs John in a Liverpool-themed Clash of the Commentators. And what will make it into the Great Glossary of Football Commentary?

04:00 Ali gets glasses & football lookalikes 06:50 Using visual identifiers when players look similar 13:30 ‘Smash and grab’ for the Great Glossary? 18:40 Ian sees eight goals in Eindhoven 25:10 Caviar and runny cheese in Paris! 28:15 Back to the league in Clash of the Commentators 35:50 Great Glossary criteria are tightened up 40:20 Ali and John called into the Commentators’ Dock 52:30 ‘In and around’

BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 8 Mar 1500 Liverpool v Southampton, Sat 8 Mar 1730 Brentford v Aston Villa, Sun 9 Mar 1400 Chelsea v Leicester, Sun 9 Mar 1630 Man Utd v Arsenal.

Peter Drury goes behind the microphone with John Murray and Alistair Bruce-Ball. He talks through his early days as a 5 Live football commentator, his relationship with words and how he thinks he may have put the commentator’s curse on Manchester United! Also Peter goes head-to-head with John Murray in a heavyweight Clash of the Commentators. And clarification on the Great Glossary criteria!

03:45 Peter’s route into the industry 05:50 Peter’s first radio commentary 11:30 Peter’s broadcasting inspirations 17:45 Peter ‘showing off’ on Sports Report 20:05 ‘Words have been my best friend and my worst enemy’ 22:25 What is the best ‘Commentators’ View’ in sport? 27:00 Guilty examples of the ‘commentator’s curse’ 32:20 Heavyweight ‘Clash of the Commentators’ 43:45 The ‘Great Glossary’ rules are ironed out

BBC Sounds / 5 Live FA Cup commentaries this weekend: Fri 28 Feb 2000 Aston Villa v Cardiff, Sat 1 Mar 1215 Crystal Palace v Millwall, Sat 1 Mar 1215 Preston v Burnley on BBC Sport website, Sat 1 Mar 1500 Bournemouth v Wolves, Sat 1 Mar 1745 Man City v Plymouth, Sun 2 Mar 1345 Newcastle v Brighton, Mon 3 Mar 1930 Nottingham Forest v Ipswich.

Wolves forward Matheus Cunha welcomes Kelly Somers to the club for a sit-down, where he talks about life in the Premier League, battling relegation and his aspirations on the international scene with Brazil.

John Murray and Alistair Bruce-Ball are joined by Chris Coles to talk commentary life. From keeping warm with Oliver Glasner to cringey early commentary moments, there are plenty of stories to be told. And Giulia Bould from BBC Radio Merseyside lifts the lid on the new Everton Stadium and reveals what ‘The Commentators’ View’ will be on Bramley-Moore Dock.

03:15 Taking the Local Radio route 04:40 First games working at football 10:45 Oliver Glasner jumper-watch 12:45 Painting the pictures in commentary 15:40 Having your phone on the desk in commentary 17:15 Ian Dennis has the Marmoush bragging rights 21:35 Syncing up the radio with the TV pictures 23:30 THE match ball vs A match ball... 25:20 Housery in football 32:10 What is Everton’s new stadium like? 45:10 Clash of the Commentators

BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this weekend: Fri 1945 Portugal v England in the Women’s Nations League, Sat 1500 Arsenal v West Ham, Sat 1730 Aston Villa v Chelsea starting on 5 Sports Extra, Sun 1400 Newcastle v Nottingham Forest, Sun 1630 Man City v Liverpool.

West Ham boss Graham Potter speaks with Kelly Somers after a month in charge at the club. Potter took the West Ham job after nearly two years out of management, following his sacking at Chelsea in April 2023. In this chat he talks about being able to focus on his family for the first time in 12 years, how things ended at Chelsea and where he thinks he can take West Ham.

John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball tell the tales you don’t normally get to hear. Hear Ian’s story about his ‘clanger’ at Leeds United, Clash of the Commentators breaks new ground as Ali and Ian go head-to-head. And the panel also reflect on Champions League drama, Merseyside madness and tough times for Tottenham and Manchester United. Plus, voicenotes are now being accepted for the ‘Great Glossary of Football Commentary’!

02:55 To sit or to stand? 04:40 ‘Intense’ week for John & Ian 08:20 Ian’s away goals rule ‘clanger’ 10:50 Iwata fires one into the glossary 11:45 TCV’s first voicenotes! 18:00 Clash of the Commentators 27:40 John surges clear in the Golden Mic contest 29:50 Champions League / Merseyside reflections 31:45 Tough times for Tottenham & Man Utd 38:55 Mousse, cheesecake & Crusty the Pie 43:10 Sending the goalkeeper the wrong way?

BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 15 Feb 1500 Man City v Newcastle, Sat 15 Feb 1730 Crystal Palace v Everton, Sun 16 Feb 1400 Liverpool v Wolves, Sun 16 Feb 1630 Tottenham v Man Utd.

Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds.

Vincent Kompany is one of European football’s most exciting young managers – so exciting, he got handed the keys to German giants Bayern Munich, the season after relegating Burnley from the Premier League to the Championship. It’s a strange trajectory, and at the time, his appointment in Munich raised more than a few eyebrows. How had Kompany gone from relegation to one of Europe’s biggest, most historic clubs? Was it because he was a student of Pep Guardiola, the ex-Bayern boss? Was he somehow failing upwards?

This episode of Football Daily is hosted by documentary maker for Copa90, Eli Mengem. Eli heads off on a journey to understand how Kompany has had such a remarkable rise in football management by analysing his youth, playing career and early steps in management, speaking to his ex-teammate Kyle Walker, ex-manager Hugo Broos and others along the way. It maps Kompany’s rise, but also asks bigger questions too. We’ll speak to journalist at the Athletic Seb Stafford-Bloor about whether Kompany’s appointment is a harbinger for a new style of manager coming to the fore in Europe. And we’ll ask Troy Townsend, the ex-head of the UK’s anti-racism in football charity Kick It Out, about how Kompany’s experience as one of the very few black managers in Europe has affected his rise.

As Kompany thrives in the Bundesliga in his first season, this episode of Football Daily arrives at the perfect time to dispel some of the myths around him, while examining his personality off the pitch, to create a portrait of what is one of the most fascinating personalities and footballing stories in the modern game.

John Murray and Ian Dennis are joined by Jacqui Oatley to lift the lid on life behind the microphone. Jacqui reveals how she got into football media and the pressure that came with being the first female commentator.

Jacqui takes on John in a one-off Clash of the Commentators exhibition match. Will any of Jacqui’s Americanisms make the Great Glossary of Football Commentary?

And rugby union correspondent Chris Jones joins the pod to talk about commentating at the Six Nations.

04:45 How Jacqui got into football media? 11:40 Facing pressure as a female commentator 19:10 Clash of the Commentators 25:00 Americanisms for the Great Glossary? 37:20 Rugby’s Chris Jones joins the pod

BBC Sounds / 5 Live FA Cup commentaries this weekend: Fri 7 Feb 2000 Man Utd v Leicester, Sat 8 Feb 1215 Leyton Orient v Man City, Sat 8 Feb 1215 Leeds v Millwall on 5 Sports Extra, Sat 8 Feb 1500 Wigan v Fulham, Sat 8 Feb 1500 Everton v Bournemouth on the BBC Sport website, Sat 8 Feb 1745 Birmingham v Newcastle starting on 5 Sports Extra, Sat 8 Feb 2000 Brighton & Hove v Chelsea, Sun 9 Feb 1230 Blackburn v Wolves, Sun 9 Feb 1735 Aston Villa v Tottenham Mon 10 Feb 1945 Doncaster v Crystal Palace.

John Bennett is joined by Guillem Balague, Julien Laurens and James Horncastle.

How has Cristiano Ronaldo elongated his career? The Portuguese striker is still scoring in Saudi Arabia so a former Manchester United performance coach tells us how he’s done it.

Which team in Europe was the busiest in the January transfer window? Which winter window buys could prove a win for the buying clubs? They discuss Mathys Tel and Rennes' deadline-day dash. Also, is Ousmane Dembele finally fulfilling his potential?

BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this week: Wed 5 Feb 2000 Newcastle v Arsenal in the Carabao Cup, Thu 6 Feb 2000 Liverpool v Tottenham in the Carabao Cup, Fri 7 Feb 2000 Man Utd v Leicester in the FA Cup.

Alan Shearer makes the short trip to Newcastle United's training ground to speak to in-form striker Alexander Isak. The Swedish international explains why he's been scoring so many goals this season. He discusses his journey in football and how he grew up watching Spanish football. He sheds light on his future plans in football, short term and long term and where he sees Newcastle finishing this season.

Gary Lineker visits Liverpool's training ground Melwood to speak with manager Arne Slot. The Liverpool manager talks about his success at the club so far since taking charge from Jurgen Klopp in the summer. He praises the former Liverpool boss for how he left the club. Slot also discusses the difficulty of being away from his family in the Netherlands and the similarities between his former club Feyenoord and Liverpool.

John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball lift the lid on life as 5 Live commentators. They reflect on the table-watching drama of the final round of Champions League and Europa League games. There’s off-field controversy. Who will go top of the table in Clash of the Commentators? And Ali’s Shrewsbury story finally gets told.

00:45 John’s trip to the dentist 04:00 Striking pre-match displays 07:30 All eyes on the table, not the match? 15:00 Man City/Celtic vs Bayern Munich/Real Madrid 18:30 Golden mic latest 21:00 Golf and games controversy 27:10 Who will go top in Clash of the Commentators? 34:55 The Shrewsbury story finally gets told 42:30 Most exciting January signings 47:15 The Great Glossary of Football Commentary

BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 1 Feb 1500 Bournemouth v Liverpool, Sat 1 Feb 1730 Wolves v Aston Villa on 5 Sports Extra, Sun 2 Feb 1400 Man Utd v Crystal Palace, Sun 2 Feb 1400 Brentford v Tottenham on 5 Sports Extra, Sun 2 Feb 1630 Arsenal v Man City.

Dion Dublin visits Old Trafford to chat with Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt.

The 25-year-old talks about United’s season so far since Ruben Amorim took charge at the club, and where there is room for improvement.

He opens up on the success of his career so far, having started out at Ajax, where he reached the Champions League semi-final in 2018 and then his big money moves to Juventus and Bayern Munch.

5 Live commentators John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball tell the stories you don’t normally get to hear. From the delights on offer at the Parc des Princes to Ian getting called out by Gareth Southgate for his dinner party getup. Gigi Salmon and Russell Fuller reveal what it’s like commentating at the Australian Open tennis. And can Ali go level at the top with John in Clash of the Commentators?

00:30 Ali’s Monaco memories 09:10 Champions League snakes & ladders 12:30 John’s Parisian treats 16:10 Best foreign commentary phrases 23:40 Ian gets called out by Gareth Southgate 26:15 The power of silence & staying enthused 31:55 John vs Ian in Clash of the Commentators 40:00 Commentating at the Australian Open tennis 45:00 The local verdict on Savio vs Savinho 48:50 What will be added to the Great Glossary?

BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 25 Jan 1500 Wolves v Arsenal, Sat 25 Jan 1730 Man City v Chelsea, Sun 26 Jan 1400 Tottenham v Leicester, Sun 26 Jan 1400 Crystal Palace v Brentford on 5 Sports Extra, Sun 26 Jan 1630 Aston Villa v West Ham.

Real Madrid are the most successful team in the history of the Champions League/European Cup with 15 titles. But how have they achieved this?

Steve Crossman and Guillem Balague explore Real's relationship with the competition, looking at their early dominance in the late 1950s, through to their six triumphs since 2014.

We hear from former players Clarence Seedorf and Sami Khedira on what makes Real Madrid so special. And former coach Paul Clement joins the pod to give us insight into current head coach Carlo Ancelotti and their "La Decima" win in 2014 against Atletico Madrid.

To watch the TV documentary, it is available on BBC iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m00276py/how-to-win-the-champions-league

4:30 Real Madrid's early dominance 11:40 Clarence Seedorf on the Real Madrid DNA 22:10 Paul Clement on La Decima and Carlo Ancelotti 38:30 Sami Khedira on Real's recruitment 40:30 Can they continue their dominance?

Gary Lineker invites Brentford manager Thomas Frank round his house for a chat and spot of lunch The Danish manager talks about the journey he's taken the club on, becoming only the Brentford head coach or manager to achieve promotion to the top-flight of English football.

Darren Fletcher is joined by Football Correspondent John Murray, Manchester United journalist Andy Mitten, and former Scotland international Joe Jordan to remember the life and career of Manchester United & Scotland legend Denis Law – the only Scottish player to also have won the Ballon d'Or.

5 Live commentators John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball answer listener questions. From John’s Cyprus underpants story to Ali’s old pet Betsy the beagle causing mischief. Plus the panel react to Erling Haaland signing a new 10-year deal with Manchester City. And will Ali’s losing streak continue in Clash of the Commentators?

02:10 Did John avoid the pigeons at Tamworth? 05:50 Commentary boxes behind glass. 13:10 TCV goes international! 17:25 John’s Cyprus underpants story. 24:30 Will Ali lose again in Clash of the Commentators? 32:45 Ali’s mischievous Betsy the beagle. 34:50 Haaland signs 10-year deal. 38:10 Commentating in stadia not designed for football. 40:20 Great Glossary of Football Commentary.

BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 18 Jan 1500 Brentford v Liverpool on 5 Live, Sat 18 Jan 1730 Arsenal v Aston Villa on 5 Live, Sun 19 Jan 1400 Man Utd v Brighton & Hove Albion on 5 Live, Sun 19 Jan 1630 Ipswich Town v Man City on 5 Live, Sun 19 Jan 1830 Man City v Man Utd (WSL) on 5 Sports Extra.

After Erling Haaland signs a new long-term deal with Manchester City club - listen back to when the Premier League’s all-time record goalscorer Alan Shearer met with the striker on the eve of his debut season back in 2022. Haaland talks about the relationship with his father, and wanting to be a better player than him from a really young age. He says he has the ability to improve ‘everything’ in his game, and highlights the importance of meditation to his game.

The original version of this podcast was released on 6 August 2022.

John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball present an FA Cup Special. They discuss the magic of the FA Cup, from giant killings to pigeon-infested commentary positions.

Has the schedule taken away some its allure? Who has the best non-league knowledge in Clash of the Commentators? And where does everyone most look forward to going?

01:00 Magic of the FA Cup 02:55 The schedule 05:55 How Sean Dyche’s sacking affected Ali’s prep 09:30 VAR from a commentator’s perspective 14:40 Tunnel interviews 21:25 FA Cup memories 25:20 Biggest cupsets 29:40 Tamworth vs Spurs 31:50 FA Cup replays: yes or no? 34:15 Question from Euro Leagues 36:40 Non-league themed Clash of the Commentators 42:15 Great Glossary of Football

5 LIVE COMMENTARIES THIS WEEKEND Friday 10th January FA CUP: Aston Villa v West Ham United 2000 KO

Saturday 11th January FA CUP: Bristol City v Wolverhampton Wanderers 1200 KO FA CUP: Liverpool v Accrington Stanley 1215 KO FA CUP: Brentford v Plymouth Argyle 1500 KO FA CUP: Leeds United v Harrogate Town 1745 KO FA CUP: Manchester City v Salford City 1745 KO

Sunday 12th January FA CUP: Tamworth v Spurs 1230 KO FA CUP: Newcastle United v Bromley 1500 KO FA CUP: Crystal Palace v Stockport County 1500 KO

From Paris, to Bolton – Premier League legend Jay-Jay Okocha sits down with Dion Dublin in this Football Daily special. The former Nigeria international opens up about that move from Paris Saint-Germain to the Premier League with Bolton Wanderers.

He chats to Dion about adapting to life in England, his relationship with Sam Allardyce and his determination to prove himself in the Premier League.

5 Live commentators John Murray, Ian Dennis and Alistair Bruce-Ball answer listener questions. From how they got into football to how they relax while on the road, and which are the coldest/warmest grounds in the country? And can Ian finally get a win under his belt in Clash of the Commentators?

02:15 Ali talks about presenting on the radio 06:10 John’s Christmas travel troubles 12:40 Why did they get into football? 19:20 How do they relax while traveling? 24:30 Do they listen back to their commentaries? 30:20 How do they look after their voices? 33:10 Can Ian win Clash of the Commentators? 43:05 Is Liverpool-Man Utd a ‘local derby’? 44:40 Which are the coldest/warmest grounds? 47:40 The Great Glossary of Football Commentary

BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 4 Jan 3pm Crystal Palace v Chelsea, Sat 4 Jan 5:30pm Brighton v Arsenal, Sun 5 Jan 2pm Fulham v Ipswich, Sun 5 Jan 4:30pm Liverpool v Man Utd.

John Bennett is joined by Guillem Balague, Julien Laurens and Rafa Honigstein for the first Euro Leagues of 2025. They discuss the match they are most looking forward to and highlight players you should keep an eye on in 2025. From Omar Marmoush at Eintracht Frankfurt to the young Argentine flourishing at Como, they pick out players who could be set for a big move, those on the cusp of great things and a couple of youngsters making big strides. They also pick out something that they are looking forward to in football this year – and end the show with some predictions.

TIMECODES 0 mins: Introduction and New Year’s Resolutions 1 min: Fixtures to look forward to in 2025. 7 mins: Eintracht Frankfurt’s Omar Marmoush. 12 mins: Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi. 15 mins: Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller. 20 mins: Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche. 25 mins: Como’s Nico Paz. 29 mins: Heidenheim’s Paul Wanner (on loan from Bayern Munich). 33 mins: Real Madrid’s Joan Martinez. 35 mins: The team discuss something that they are looking forward to seeing in football in 2025.

Ali Bruce-Ball, John Murray and Ian Dennis present a selection box of stories from life as 5 Live commentators. From getting a wasp in the mouth mid-commentary, to getting in trouble with Kenny Dalglish and Tony Pulis, they tell the tales you don't normally get to hear.