EFL Unfiltered with David Prutton

S7 Ep9: Gareth Ainsworth Unfiltered

The Content Works — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

There really is only one Gareth Ainsworth, as there's nobody in football that looks like him or acts like him! He's a total one off and a brilliant host, as David Prutton found out when he was kindly invited over to Gareth's gaff for the day, back in October of last year. Inside the house, Gareth's love of music takes centre stage, and his heroes are some of the biggest names in rock, but Gareth is also quite clearly a football man through and through. An exceptional player and a skilled and talented man manager, who's proud to have worked with and developed some of the most prolific players in the game today. This is a fascinating insight into the tightrope that everyone in football management needs to tread, and once the relaxed chat around the bar and the trophy room has concluded, Gareth has one final surprise for Prutts!

S7 Ep8: Kevin Nolan Unfiltered

The Content Works — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

It's the penultimate episode in the series and David Prutton is in a pub in Nottingham, so no complaints from him on the choice of location! Prutts is there to meet Northampton Town manager Kevin Nolan, who's comfortably settled in Robin Hood Country, from his time in charge at nearby Notts County. The two look back fondly on a glittering playing career, that has so far transitioned into a very promising looking start in management, although Kevin is fully aware that it's early days and he's still learning his craft. Getting a bit too comfy in his pub surroundings, Prutts challenges Nolan to a game of darts, but it doesn't go well and it becomes clear very quickly, who'll be buying the first round of drinks as soon as the cameras stop rolling!

S7 Ep7: Barry Fry Unfiltered

The Content Works — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Undoubtedly one of football's greatest ever characters, there really is only one Barry Fry! From his first goal at Wembley in front of nearly 100,000 people and looking after a young George Best at Manchester United in the early 1960s, to his latest role at Peterborough United, a club that he's been married to for nearly 30 years! His beloved Posh have got a trip to Wembley to look forward to on Sunday, and this week Barry turned 80 years old, so it's a very good time for David Prutton to catch up with this gentleman of the game, who's got some of the best stories you'll ever hear!

S7 Ep6: Mick McCarthy Unfiltered

The Content Works — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

There are few people who can tell a story like McCarthy, and have the whole room bent double! David Prutton throughly enjoyed his day at Mick's house, talking about the early days at Barnsley to playing in the World Cup. Managing Ireland and his infamous fall out with Roy Keane, to talking to Steve Coogan about playing himself in the corresponding film, not to mention achieving the ultimate life goal of owning a fancy hot tap and what his favourite biscuit is! This is an episode that has it all, so sit down with a nice brew and possibly a packet of ginger nuts, and enjoy!

S7 Ep5: Billy Sharp Unfiltered

The Content Works — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Billy Sharp is a home town hero. A 'Roy of the Rovers' style striker in his native Sheffield and a blade through and through. On this episode, David Prutton travels to Billy's home turf to talk about a career that has not only seen him score more than 100 goals for his boyhood club, but also move away to the South Coast with Southampton and travel abroad to LA Galaxy, before returning closer to home with his current club Doncaster Rovers, who will always have a special place in his heart. This is a brilliant chat about what it means to be in the business of scoring goals, and understanding the feelings of the fans on the terraces.

S7 Ep4: Steve Bruce Unfiltered

The Content Works — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode, David Prutton takes himself off to the seaside, to spend some quality time in the company of Blackpool FC manager Steve Bruce. From sharing a dressing room with Cantona, Kanchelskis, Giggs and Hughes, to realising every Geordie's dream of managing Newcastle United, Steve has enjoyed a remarkable career over his 4 decades in the game. He's got lofty ambitions for his Seasiders and is very much enjoying his time at Bloomfield Road, so who's to say he couldn't clock up an incredible 50 years of doing what he loves best!

S7 Ep3: Phil Jagielka Unfiltered

The Content Works — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

With more than 800 appearances under his belt, Phil Jagielka's superb career for club and country spanned more than 23 years! Out of the game now for a year or so, he's been working mainly on his golf handicap, but reflects with Prutts on the highs, the lows and some of the brilliant characters and stories he's enjoyed along the way, as he looks back on a playing career that he's quite rightly very proud of.

S7 Ep2: Frank Lampard Unfiltered

The Content Works — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

It's the first episode of a brand new podcast series, that sees David Prutton sit down for a proper chat with some of the biggest names in football. First up it's Coventry City manager Frank Lampard, to discuss his distinguished career and schooling in the game, the influence of the likes Jose Mourinho on his management style, and whether Uncle Harry and Aunty Sandra agree with him playing a back four!

S7 Ep1: EFL Unfiltered - The Brand New EFL Podcast with David Prutton

The Content Works — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:32:00 +0000

S6 Ep46: The best of the guests part two!

The Content Works — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 21:39:27 +0000

It's the final instalment of the official EFL podcast for 2023/2024, and host David Prutton is taking a little look back at some of his favourite moments from the second half of this truly extraordinary season, along with the characters that have joined him along the way!

S6 Ep45: 2023/2024 Season Review

The Content Works — Wed, 29 May 2024 15:07:48 +0000

Another season comes to a close, and who better to chew over the fat than Messrs Prutton and Stowell. It's been quite the campaign across all 3 divisions, and David and David have had a ball, as is clearly evident from their fond footballing summary!

S6 Ep44: The Skybet Championship Playoff Final Preview!

The Content Works — Tue, 21 May 2024 20:13:40 +0000

On this week's official EFL, David Prutton and Juliette Ferrington focus their thoughts on the last big game of the season, and the one that's said to the most valuable in world football. This Sunday Leeds United face Southampton for a chance to bounce back up to the premier league at the first attempt, as they contest the Skybet Playoff Final at Wembley. A tough one to call, this should be a fascinating encounter and one that could go either way!

S6 Ep43: The Skybet League 1 and League 2 Playoff Final Preview!

The Content Works — Tue, 14 May 2024 17:19:07 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, it's all about the forthcoming weekend at Wembley for the fans of Bolton, Oxford, Crawley and Crewe. Joining David Prutton to discuss all of the key battles and major talking points, is Sky Sports' very own commentator extraordinaire, Mr David Stowell!

S6 Ep42: Windass!

The Content Works — Wed, 08 May 2024 21:48:19 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton and Juliette Ferrington catch up with Josh Windass, after his Sheffield Wednesday side's impressive form of late saw them successfully avoid the drop and maintain their Championship status next season. Elsewhere it's a special and emotional day for Salford City's Matt Smith, who's presented with a glamorous certificate for winning this season's 72 in 72 competition!

S6 Ep41: It's Vegas or bust, for James Collins and his Derby County team mates!

The Content Works — Wed, 01 May 2024 15:43:41 +0000

On this week's edition of the official EFL Podcast, David Prutton and Juliette Farrington catch up with a very happy James Collins, after his Derby County heroics which have helped see his side achieve automatic promotion this season. Prutts and Jules give us a full preview of the final weekend in the Skybet Championship, and the infamous '72 in 72' reaches a triumphant climax!

S6 Ep40: Nigel Adkins and his Prenton Park positivity!

The Content Works — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:56:05 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton and David Stowell welcome Tranmere's Nigel Adkins onto the pod for a positivity boost! Nigel is loving life back in his homeland at the club he supported as a boy and played for, and now has the honour of moulding and shaping in his own image. Prutts and Stowell also look ahead to the finale of the season and Leeds United's Sam Byron is in the hotseat for the fearsome 72 in 72!

S6 Ep39: Super Sammie Szmodics and the EFL Awards 2024!

The Content Works — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 22:10:10 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton and David Stowell enjoy the company of Blackburn Rovers' in form striker Sammie Szmodics, look back on last Sunday's glitzy EFL Awards, and preview all this weekend's upcoming action!

S6 Ep38: Boro's Jonny Howson!

The Content Works — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 15:52:57 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton and Juliette Ferrington enjoy the company of Boro's veteran pro Jonny Howson, the morning after their 2-2 draw away at Hull City. Jonny gives a real insight into his affection for the club and his desire to stay at The Riverside, whilst also eyeing up a life after football when the day eventually comes to hang up his boots. Elsewhere, Prutts and Jules give a full preview of this weekend's action across all 3 divisions, and Grimsby Town boss David Artell takes on the dreaded 72 in 72!

S6 Ep37: Bristol Street Motors Trophy - Cup Final Special!

The Content Works — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 20:55:50 +0000

This Sunday, Peterborough United take on Wycombe Wanderers in the final of the Bristol Street Motors Trophy at Wembley, in what will be a huge day out for both clubs and their fans. David Prutton previews the big day, with former Peterborough United striker Craig Mackail-Smith and Wycombe Wanderers manager Matt Bloomfield.

S6 Ep36: Here's Johnnie!

The Content Works — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 13:37:22 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton and David Stowell are joined by no nonsense AFC Wimbledon manager Johnnie Jackson! Johnnie wears his heart on his sleeve and is brutally honest in his assessment of his side's chances of promotion, and as he rightly says, if they don't quite get over the line this time, it won't be for a lack of effort or a want of trying! Elsewhere, Leeds United's Patrick Bamford takes on the fearsome 72 in 72!

S6 Ep35: It's all change for Chopper!

The Content Works — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 09:52:23 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton and Juliette Ferrington welcome Neil Harris onto the pod to talk about his recent homecoming to The Den, and to explain his own notion of Millwallness! Prutts also catches up with the EFL's head of youth development Darren Wassall, to talk about the importance of nurturing the next generation, while Jules casts her expert eye over all this weekend's fixtures in Skybet Leagues 1 and 2, with no Championship action because of the international break.

S6 Ep34: David Artell and his Grimsby Town revolution!

The Content Works — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 18:04:53 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast it’s a 3 Davids special, as David Prutton and David Stowell welcome along David Artell for a chat about life at Grimsby Town. Brutally honest and brilliantly insightful, David Artell is always great value, and this is a captivating listen. On top of that, Messers Prutton and Stowell preview all this weekend’s EFL action across all 3 divisions, and a certain Jobi McAnuff tries his luck on the fearsome 72 in 72!

S6 Ep33: Darrell Clarke talking Cheltenham Town and Cheltenham Festival!

The Content Works — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 14:26:07 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton and Juliette Ferrington are joined by Cheltenham Town boss Darrell Clarke, who's enjoying the very real challenge of trying to keep the robins in Skybet League One this season. Elsewhere, Prutts and Jules look at all the big stories and preview the big games this weekend in all 3 divisions, and in the fearsome 72 in 72, Wycombe Wanderers Matt Butcher pits his wits!

S6 Ep32: The first Brazilian to play for Norwich!

The Content Works — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 15:28:26 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton and David Stowell are enjoying some samba style in the city of Norwich, as they sit down and chat to the canaries' first ever Brazilian player, Gabriel Sara. Apart from the less than perfect weather, Gabriel is loving his time in East Anglia and says it's a dream come true to play in England. Elsewhere, the two Davids preview all of this weekend's EFL action, and Callum O'Dowda takes on the return of the fearsome 72 in 72!

S6 Ep31: The Carabao Cup Final Special!

The Content Works — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 19:08:50 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton is joined by Sky Sports' Juliette Ferrington for a full and in-depth preview of this Sunday's Carabao Cup Final between Chelsea and Liverpool, plus a detailed look forward to all of the weekend's other action across the EFL.

S6 Ep30: It's been a challenging week for Harrogate Town's Simon Weaver!

The Content Works — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 20:07:31 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast David Prutton is joined by two Weavers, in the form of Sky Sports Gary and Harrogate Town boss Simon. Having enjoyed a great run of late in Skybet League Two, Harrogate Town suffered a 9-2 defeat this week at the hands of Mansfield Town, and credit to Simon Weaver for bravely describing what has been a challenging week at best, and how he's had to pick his players up to go again! Elsewhere, the EFL's David McArdle discusses the launch of the new Puma Rainbow Ball, to celebrate LGBT History Month.

S6 Ep29: Bolton are pushing for promotion!

The Content Works — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 14:13:33 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton and David Stowell are joined by Bolton Boss Ian Evatt, to talk about his side's push for promotion to the championship next season. And the fearsome 72 in 72, welcomes Millwall's Tom Bradshaw into the hotseat!

S6 Ep28: Robins is rockin' with his Coventry City side in the playoff places!

The Content Works — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 21:44:07 +0000

On this week's Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton and Juliette Farrington welcome Coventry City boss Mark Robins onto the show, for a fascinating insight into the pressures of management, and Colchester United's Danny Cowley tackles the fearsome 72 in 72.

S6 Ep27: Danny Cowley is looking up the table with Colchester United!

The Content Works — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 16:56:26 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton and David Stowell are joined by one of the nicest men in football, the ever charming Danny Cowley on life with new club Colchester United. Danny and brother Nicky have been dubbed the Ant and Dec of football, which is something that amuses them both, and they're very much enjoying life back in Essex! Meanwhile the infamous 72 in 72 claims its latest victim, in the form of Wrexham's Steven Fletcher!

S6 Ep26: Leeds United's Dan James on the battle at the top of the championship!

The Content Works — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 18:52:48 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton and Gary Weaver are joined by Leeds United hotshot Dan James, who's loving his time at Elland Road and relishing the battle at the top of the championship for promotion straight back to the premier league. Meanwhile, sports most fearsome challenge, the 72 in 72, welcomes Birmingham City's Lukas Jutkiewics to pit his wits!

S6 Ep25: The only way is up for Charlie Adam and Fleetwood Town!

The Content Works — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 16:28:10 +0000

On this weeks official EFL podcast, David Prutton's first signing of the January transfer window is Sky Sports very own Juliette Ferrington, who makes her debut on the pod with Prutts. The pair are joined by new Fleetwood Town boss Charlie Adam, who's been loving his first couple of weeks in the job, and is determined to get the Cod Army singing once his side start leaping up the table!

S6 Ep24: What a start to 2024 for Wrexham's hat trick hero Steven Fletcher!

The Content Works — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 16:05:05 +0000

The first one of the year, and David Prutton and David Stowell welcome to the show Wrexham's hat trick hero Steven Fletcher, who's loving life in North Wales as the Hollywood blockbuster continues!

S6 Ep23: The Best of The Guests Part One

The Content Works — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 19:20:43 +0000

It's that of year, where we like to do a little best of the guests so far this season, as a special treat for Christmas. So, sit back and relax as David Prutton brings you some of his highlights from the past 4 and half months!

S6 Ep22: Three Wise Men!

The Content Works — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 23:07:00 +0000

On this week's Ho Ho Hofficial EFL Podcast, David Prutton and Gary Weaver are joined by a former Sky Sports colleague of theirs, who's now doing an impressive job managing Hull City! Liam Rosenior is loving life on Humberside, and looking forward to a busy run of fixtures over Christmas and New Year with his Tigers side. Elsewhere, the final '72 in 72' of the year welcomes Wycombe Wanderers legend turned gaffer, Matt Bloomfield to take part in the ultimate sporting test!

S6 Ep21: Wild Pete, Wayne Rooney and Wingman Weaver!

The Content Works — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 15:34:33 +0000

On this week's Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton is joined by wingman Gary Weaver for a busy episode in this busy pre Christmas period of fixtures! Barrow boss Pete Wild joins as special guest, to talk about his side's battle with the big boys at the top of Skybet League Two, and how he's delighted that nobody is talking about them, and Birmingham City boss Wayne Rooney, is the latest contestant on the fearsome 72 in 72! And if that wasn't enough, Prutts and Weaver give you a full and comprehensive run down of all of the week's top talking points across all 3 divisions!

S6 Ep20: We fear nobody, says Stevenage boss Steve Evans

The Content Works — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 22:27:58 +0000

On this week's Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton and David Stowell are joined by Stevenage's charismatic manager Steve Evans, and Lincoln City CEO Liam Scully gives us an update on some of the tremendous work our clubs do in their communities.

S6 Ep19: Early days for Erol, but he's loving the Welsh capital so far!

The Content Works — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 17:43:08 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton and Gary Weaver are joined by Cardiff City boss Erol Bulut, and Richie Wellens produces a barn storming effort on 72 in 72!

S6 Ep18: Salford City's super striker Smith, on the eve of his record breaking milestone!

The Content Works — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 17:32:48 +0000

On this week's Official EFL Podcast, Salford's City Matt Smith joins the two Davids, Prutton and Stowell, to look ahead to his record breaking milestone at the weekend, and Joe Bryan takes on the fearsome 72 in 72!

S6 Ep17: Neil Critchley does like to be beside the seaside!

The Content Works — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 14:14:22 +0000

On this week's Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton and Gary Weaver are joined by Blackpool boss Neil Critchley, to discuss life back at Bloomfield Road, and Cardiff City's Rubin Colwill takes part in the fearsome 72 in 72!

S6 Ep16: 'He certainly knows where the goal is!' Notts County hotshot Macaulay Langstaff is loving life at Meadow Lane!

The Content Works — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 16:09:53 +0000

David Prutton and David Stowell welcome a young striker who can't stop scoring at the moment. Notts County's prolific marksman Macaulay Langstaff joins the two Davids for a chinwag, and Emile Heskey pops by to talk about the EFL's very special week of action!

S6 Ep15: Liam Manning and his high flying Oxford United!

The Content Works — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:20:23 +0000

On this week's Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton and David Stowell are joined by Oxford United manager Liam Manning to discuss his side's early season successes in Skybet League One, and the 72 in 72 in returns, with Blackburn's Andrew Moran in the hotseat!

S6 Ep14: From South Yorks to South Wales, Michael Duff is relishing his new challenge at Swansea City!

The Content Works — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 14:15:25 +0000

On this week’s Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton is joined by wingman Gary Weaver, for a full rundown of all of the week’s big talking points, and the pair are joined by Swansea City manager Michael Duff, to talk about his new challenge in South Wales. To conclude the EFLs celebration of Black History Month, Romaine Sawyers picks his all time football idol.

S6 Ep13: EFL Podcast Special - McAnuff and Prutton discuss discrimination.

The Content Works — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 13:13:31 +0000

As part of the EFL’s Together Against Racism’ initiative, Jobi McAnuff tells David Prutton about the discrimination he has faced through his life and career.

In an in-depth and emotional conversation, Jobi and David discuss their differing career experiences and the need for better representation in leadership roles, while they also consider the responsibility of supporters to call out and report abuse when they hear it or see it.

S6 Ep12: The Stags are heading towards the top!

The Content Works — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 16:19:32 +0000

On this week's Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton is joined by Sky Sports commentator Daniel Mann, as the pair chew through all the big stories from the week, and look forward to a full weekend of action off the back of the international break. In Skybet League Two, Mansfield Town have been on a fantastic run of late, and Nigel Clough joins Prutts and Mann, to discuss the form that his side have been in, as they've taken their place in the top 3. To continue the EFL's celebration of black history month, Liam Rosenior chooses his football idol.

S6 Ep11: Pompey are playing up, right at the top of League One!

The Content Works — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 13:09:10 +0000

David Prutton welcomes back his Sky Sports colleague David Stowell for this week’s episode, as they welcome a high flying manager into their virtual studio. Portsmouth are in tremendous form and currently sit at the summit of Skybet League One, so joining Prutts and Stowell is their highly impressive young manager John Mousinho, to shine a light on his side’s current good form. We also continue our celebrations of Black History Month as Watford FC’s Valerian Ismael talks to us about his all time football idol.

S6 Ep10: Stockport's high five, as Challinor challenges the League Two table toppers!

The Content Works — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 12:54:01 +0000

Prutts is joined once again by wing commander Weaver, as the dynamic duo enjoy a relaxed chinwag with Stockport County's Dave Challinor, whose side have this week recorded 5 straight wins on the bounce! And to celebrate October being Black History Month, Charlton Athletic's Omar Beckles selects his all time football idol.

S6 Ep9: Schuey is dreaming of big things for Plymouth Argyle!

The Content Works — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 17:28:20 +0000

On this week's Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton is joined by his Sky Sports wingman Gary Weaver, as the pair welcome Plymouth Argyle boss Steven Schumacher into the studio, off the back of his side's impressive 6-2 win over Norwich last weekend! Elsewhere, football's toughest test, The 72 in 72, welcomes Charlton Athletic's Alfie May into the hotseat!

S6 Ep8: Chairman Matt's blooming good start with Wycombe!

The Content Works — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 12:59:12 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, Prutts' Welsh wingman Nathan Jones returns to share his expert insight, and the pair are joined by Wycombe Wanderers legend and now boss Matt Bloomfield, who talks about how much he's loving life at the club that's in his blood. Elsewhere, football's toughest test, the 72 in 72 welcomes Watford's Valerian Ismael into the hotseat!

S6 Ep7: Chopper's Gills are flying high!

The Content Works — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 22:24:46 +0000

On this week's Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton is joined by Courtney Sweetman-Kirk for some expert punditry and analysis on all things EFL. Gillingham boss Neil Harris is their special guest, talking about his Gillingham side's brilliant start to the season, and Aaron Ramsey takes on the dreaded 72 in 72!

S6 Ep6: The Lowe down on life at the top of The Championship!

The Content Works — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 21:30:54 +0000

On this week's Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton is joined by his Sky Sports colleague David Stowell, to look at all the big stories across all 3 leagues, and PNE boss Ryan Lowe is their special guest this week, to talk about his side's brilliant start to the campaign, as they sit at the summit of the Skybet Championship!

S6 Ep5: An Awesome Foursome for Swindon Town's Jake Young!

The Content Works — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 21:16:08 +0000

On this week's Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton has Nathan Jones as his wingman, to look at all the big stories of the week and chat to special guest Jake Young, after his goalscoring rampage last weekend for the Robins! Elsewhere, Salford City's Matt Smith pits his wits in 72 in 72!

S6 Ep4: Kieran McKenna's newly promoted 'Tractor Boys' are top of the Championship!

The Content Works — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 20:30:17 +0000

On this week's Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton is joined by his Sky Sports colleague Gary Weaver for some expert punditry across all 3 divisions, and Prutts and Weaver sit down with Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna, for a fascinating insight into the life of a top Championship manager.

S6 Ep3: Prutts is joined by The 3 Wise Men!

The Content Works — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 18:14:27 +0000

On this week’s Official EFL Podcast, David Prutton is joined by Sky Sports commentator David Stowell to look at all of the week’s big talking points. Prutts and David welcome Derby County’s Conor Hourihane onto the show to talk about his side’s start to the new campaign, referee Will Finnie explains the new rules regarding extra time this season, and Gary Rowett pits his wits in the hot seat of 72 in 72!

S6 Ep2: Two Games and 15 Goals!

The Content Works — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 16:30:00 +0000

On this weeks Official EFL Podcast, Prutts is joined by Barnsley's Devante Cole fresh from his hat trick against Port Vale, and MK Dons new manager, Graham Alexander gives us the lowdown on his plans for the season and giving Wrexham a welcome they won't forget! Plus Marc Albrighton is in the 72 in 72 chair.

S6 Ep1: The EFL Is Back!

The Content Works — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 15:08:46 +0000

The new season is about to kick off and with it, a brand new series of The Official EFL Podcast. Joining David Prutton this week, is the new Southampton manager Russell Martin, who’s itching to get going in the Skybet Championship, and Prutts has Richie Wellens to cast an expert eye over all 3 divisions this year, plus a chat about how he thinks his newly promoted Leyton Orient side will fare in Skybet League One!

S5 Ep45: The best of the guests part two, on the official EFL podcast!

The Content Works — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 10:12:12 +0000

Mark Clemmit brings you the best of the guests part two, from the season that was 2022/2023.

S5 Ep44: Playoff Finals Preview

The Content Works — Mon, 22 May 2023 21:46:24 +0000

Curtis Davies joins Mark Clemmit for a full and expert preview of this weekend's playoff finals at Wembley.

S5 Ep43: The mindset of a manager!

The Content Works — Wed, 17 May 2023 09:33:58 +0000

As we sit between the season end and the playoff finals, Mark Clemmit has taken the opportunity to deliver something a little bit special this week, as he digs into the mindset of a manager after another season of highs and lows for all. Representing the Skybet Championship is Birmingham City's John Eustace, we have Accrington Stanley's long serving manager John Coleman who's just had to cope with the reality of relegation from League One, and going the other way is Northampton Town's antipodean talisman John Brady, who's cobblers have secured automatic promotion from League Two. Three very different men who have had 3 very different seasons, but whose shared knowledge and insight, makes for one fascinating podcast!

S5 Ep42: Season Review with Danny Cowley

The Content Works — Wed, 10 May 2023 18:07:03 +0000

As the curtain comes down on another action packed season in the EFL, with just the playoffs to be resolved, Mark Clemmit welcomes along his old friend Danny Cowley, to cast his expert eye on the season as a whole across all 3 divisions, and offer some fascinating insight from his knowledge of the game.

S5 Ep41: Hecky's blades are up and Evans above for Steve's Stevenage!

The Content Works — Wed, 03 May 2023 17:36:57 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, it's all about promotion as Mark Clemmit welcomes along two men whose sides have secured an automatic slot in the last week. Paul Heckingbottom's Sheffield United have been promoted and will be mixing it in the premier league next season, and Steve Evans' Stevenage will be plying their trade in Skybet League One after a barnstorming campaign!

S5 Ep40: Rock ’n’ roll, the glamour of the awards and the bright lights of Hollywood!

The Content Works — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 07:26:02 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit serves up a bumper selection of star names. QPR’s Gareth Ainsworth reflects on the importance of that all important win against Burnley at the weekend, Wrexham’s Paul Mullin is relishing their return to the football league and the Hollywood influence in North Wales, and we look back at some of the big winners at last Sunday’s prestigious annual EFL Awards ceremony in London.

S5 Ep39: Leyton Orient Are Up!

The Content Works — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 10:48:28 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Leyton Orient manager Richie Wellens, just hours after his side secured promotion to Skybet League One after a barnstorming campaign this season. Clem is also joined by Maralyn Smith from MK Dons Sports Education Trust, who were big winners at this week’s EFL Community Awards, and Rotherham’s Matt Taylor gives his expert insight on all the big stories across the EFL this week. It's a packed episode!

S5 Ep38: Burnley are promoted!

The Content Works — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 17:34:21 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, David Prutton sits in for Mark Clemmit with a bumper selection of guests. Burnley's Jack Cork joins Prutts to reflect on the Clarets' superb achievements this season. The EFL's chief operating officer Nick Craig talks fan behaviour in our football stadia, and the smooth talking Jobi McAnuff provides a full and frank mop up of all that's happened across the easter weekend.

S5 Ep37: Full preview of the Easter weekend

The Content Works — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 10:03:13 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit welcomes back Karl Robinson, for a full and expert preview of the busy Easter fixture schedule, across all 3 divisions of the EFL.

S5 Ep36: The Papa John's Trophy Final Preview!

The Content Works — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0000

On this week's special edition of the official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is looking forward to this Sunday's Papa John's Trophy Final Wembley Showdown, in the company of the two managers. He's got Bolton Wanderers' Ian Evatt and Plymouth Argyle's Steven Schumacher together in his virtual studio, with both managers desperate not to give away any tactical secrets and both relishing an epic day out in front of 80,000 travelling fans!

S5 Ep35: Michael Bridges and George Hirst

The Content Works — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 00:35:44 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit delivers two gentlemen with a rich footballing pedigree. First up, Michael Bridges casts his expert eye over all of this week’s big stories across the EFL, and Clem then welcomes 24 year old George Hirst onto the podcast for the first time, who assesses his Ipswich side’s remarkable run of form of late, and what it was like growing up in the shadow of his father, Sheffield Wednesday legend, David Hirst!

S5 Ep34: Karl Robinson: The pressure cooker environment of football management

The Content Works — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 13:10:59 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Karl Robinson, who 3 weeks ago was sacked as Oxford United manager following a run of bad results. Karl had been at the club for 5 years and enjoyed some great times there, but knew the writing was on the wall with his side's form of late, and talks openly and honestly about how it felt towards the end and reflects on his tenure there having had a couple of weeks to think and put it into perspective. Karl also delivers some top class punditry for Clem on all 3 divisions within the EFL, in what is a brutally frank and fascinating listen.

S5 Ep33: Jon Dahl Tomasson, Kevin McDonald and some record breaking bantams!

The Content Works — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 22:25:52 +0000

It's a bumper packed episode this week, as Mark Clemmit pushes the boat out with top guests! Jon Dahl Tomasson talks about life in Lancashire away from his family, as he continues to push Rovers up the table. Also away from his family for now at least, is Exeter's Kevin McDonald, who's back on the score sheets again, having overcome a potentially life changing challenge that few of us would manage. At Valley Parade, Mark Hughes's high flying Bradford City are enjoying record crowds in Skybet League Two, and season ticket holder James Mullaney talks about the feel good factor around the club, and of his involvement in the Ukrainian Bantams supporters group, who have done much to welcome new arrivals into their community, following the Russian invasion this time last year.

S5 Ep32: It’s a case of history repeating itself for Darren Ferguson, and Connor Jennings reflects on the battle that Hartlepool have got to stay in the football league!

The Content Works — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 06:00:00 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by two men with very different challenges in front of them for the remainder of the season. Darren Ferguson is back at Peterborough for his 4th spell as manager, but this time it’s not a long term plan, and his aim is to keep the club steady as they plan for their long term future. Elsewhere at Hartlepool, the plan is very much short term and is simply survival and to stay in the football league, as experienced campaigner Connor Jennings knows only too well!

S5 Ep31: The Carabao Cup Final and all the week's biggest stories!

The Content Works — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 20:29:58 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by top pundit Joe Thompson, to chew through all of the week's breaking news stories across all 3 divisions, as well as preview this Sunday's Carabao cup final between Manchester United and Newcastle United at Wembley! Also joining Clem this week, is Gillingham head coach Neil Harris, who describes how things are really on the up for the Kent club, especially since appointing Kenny Hackett and Andy Hessenthaler in senior roles.

S5 Ep30: It might be Valentine's Day this week, but it's all about the love of the game with Bailey Wright and Ian Evatt joining Clem.

The Content Works — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 06:00:00 +0000

It's another must-listen episode this week as Clem sits down with Bailey Wright to find out about his 12,000 mile journey from Melbourne to Rotherham and Ian Evatt tells us about his master plan for Bolton Wanderers.

S5 Ep29: There's no place like home with Paul Simpson and Sol Bamba

The Content Works — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 06:00:00 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is back from his well earned break with 2 cracking guests to kick off with. Paul Simpson explains how nice it is to be working from home with his high flying Carlisle side, and Sol Bamba is back in Cardiff for a new challenge at a club he knows so well!

S5 Ep28: The January transfer window, finally slams shut!

The Content Works — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 10:07:08 +0000

David Prutton is in for Mark Clemmit again this week, with another couple of all star guests on his virtual sofa! New QPR boss Neil Critchley, is currently adjusting to life in London and relishing the opportunity to manage in the capital, and in the week where the January transfer window closed at 11pm on Tuesday night, Michael Brown joins Prutts, to cast an eye over all of the biggest deals concerning players in the EFL.

S5 Ep27: Dwight Gayle and Michael Duff in conversation with Prutts!

The Content Works — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Mark Clemmit is taking a well earned break for two weeks, which means that David Prutton is hosting the official EFL podcast in his absence, and he's arranged a chat with two gentleman who know all there is to know about life in the EFL! Stoke City striker Dwight Gayle reflects on his latest challenge in the Potteries, and Barnsley manager Michael Duff assesses his chances of getting the Tykes promoted back to the Skybet Championship.

S5 Ep26: Jonny Howson, Charlie Austin and the EFL's week of action

The Content Works — Thu, 19 Jan 2023 06:00:00 +0000

It's a jam packed week of guests on the official EFL podcast, as Mark Clemmit gets to indulge himself with his beloved Boro! Club captain Jonny Howson discusses his side's charge up the championship table under new manager Michael Carrick, while in Skybet League Two, Swindon Town have pulled off a marquee signing in the form of Charlie Austin who's just returned from a spell down under with Brisbane Roar. It's also the EFL's annual week of action, so Clem chats to Liam Scully from the EFL Trust about the fantastic work being done by all 72 clubs up and down the country, and Lee Stewart describes first hand how his life has been changed by one such initiative at the stadium of light.

S5 Ep25: Stevenage and their giant killing cup conquest, and Liam Rosenior feels very at home in Hull

The Content Works — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 13:20:42 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by two men who represent all that is great about the EFL. First up, Liam Rosenior who's doing an impressive job of turning things around on Humberside, and has lofty ambitions for his Hull side this season. Clem is also joined by Stevenage's charismatic gaffer Steve Evans, who's Skybet League Two side took all the headlines last weekend, when they dumped premier league Aston Villa out of the FA Cup, in what will surely go down as one of the proudest days in the club's history!

S5 Ep24: Rockin' into 2023 with Gareth Ainsworth!

The Content Works — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Happy new year to you all from the official EFL podcast, and who better to join Mark Clemmit to discuss the year ahead and the ups and downs of the Christmas fixture list, than the rock n roll star himself, Wycombe's charismatic gaffer Gareth Ainsworth!

S5 Ep23: The best of the guests so far!

The Content Works — Wed, 28 Dec 2022 15:06:07 +0000

On this week's special edition of the official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit brings you a little compilation of the best of the guests so far this season, as we look back on the last 5 months in the Skybet Championship, League One and League Two that has been anything but dull!

S5 Ep22: All I want for Christmas is....

The Content Works — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 08:57:35 +0000

Who better to be Clem's seasonal visitor, than Sky Sports' very own David Prutton, delivering knowledge, insight and lemsip to our very poorly presenter. It would appear that rather than the air fryer and world peace he'd asked for, Clem's main present this year is a potentially deadly bout of manflu, but like the trooper that he is, he'll bravely battle on, barely mentioning his debilitating condition, as the two titans of talk have a full and frank assessment of where we are in the Skybet Championship, League One and League Two, as we approach Christmas and New Year!

S5 Ep21: Three wise men

The Content Works — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 06:00:00 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, it's a full house for Mark Clemmit as he welcomes three wise men into his Christmassy studio in the season of goodwill. Burnley's Josh Brownhill describes life at the top of the championship, Matt Holland reflects on the respective plight of his former clubs Ipswich and Charlton, and Swindon Town's Scott Lindsey talks about life in the hot seat for the first time, at the tender age of 50!

S5 Ep20: A fresh new challenge for Rob Edwards and Curtis Davies is live from the training ground with some top drawer punditry perfection!

The Content Works — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 09:52:01 +0000

It's still a bit weird isn't it, with the World Cup entering the knock out phase, while we go out and buy Christmas trees, but returning to matters in hand, the EFL is back with a vengeance this weekend, so Mark Clemmit has invited in two esteemed gentlemen, to give us their thoughts on all of the above. After a very brief experience at Watford this summer, Rob Edwards is back with a fresh new challenge at Luton Town and one that he can't wait to get his teeth into, and the EFL legend that is Curtis Davies, has time for a quick natter with Clem about all the big stories this week, in his tea break at the training ground!

S5 Ep19: Clem meets the management

The Content Works — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 10:37:55 +0000

It’s a slightly peculiar season at the moment, with the break for the World Cup and the FA Cup second round last weekend, that saw no domestic EFL fixtures played at all. It therefore seemed like a perfect opportunity for Clem to invite in two of his favourite EFL managers, to find out what life is really like in the hotseat of English football management! Sheffield Wednesday’s Darren Moore and Tranmere Rovers’ Micky Mellon are this week’s star guests, and it’s an eye opening chat with a more than generous helping of laughs thrown in as well!

S5 Ep18: Lee Tomlin's glittering career through the leagues, and Matt Bloomfield on his move into management

The Content Works — Thu, 24 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by two men who know a thing or two about life at all levels within the English football pyramid! Lee Tomlin retired from football last week, following a career that took him from Rushden and Diamonds to playing under Eddie Howe in the premier league, a man who he describes as being one of the best coaches in the world! Elsewhere after an incredible career with Wycombe Wanderers, Matt Bloomfield has now stepped into management with Skybet League Two side Colchester United, and explains to Clem the very different responsibilities he now faces, as the man making the decisions.

S5 Ep17: Connor Wickham and that FA cup worldie, and Phil Brown’s winners and learners!

The Content Works — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit sits down for a chat with the much travelled talent that is Connor Wickham, who’s now playing his trade with Forest Green Rovers. Plus, the ever entertaining Phil Brown, joins Clem to talk about the upcoming World Cup kick off, and cast his expert eye over all the big issues in the EFL this week.

S5 Ep16: Into the lions' den with Millwall's Gary's Rowett

The Content Works — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 07:08:18 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Millwall's brilliantly experienced and eloquent manager Gary Rowett, to give us some expert punditry across all 3 leagues, and to talk about how he and his team are going to handle the upcoming break for the World Cup in Qatar.

S5 Ep15: Nigel Clough, David Wetherall and the Foodie Footballer Marc Pugh!

The Content Works — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 16:33:16 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is back from his week off with a bumper crop of special guests joining him in his virtual studio! Nigel Clough brings us his brilliantly dry take on all the week’s big stories across the league, the EFL’s David Wetherall talks about the importance of youth development and player care to the future prosperity of the football pyramid, and Clem gets some top tips on eating well to perform like an elite athlete, from the foodie footballer Marc Pugh!

S5 Ep14: Russell Martin and his unflappable Swans and Prutts gives a debut to Michael Bridges!

The Content Works — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 11:16:43 +0000

On this week’s feature length episode of the official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is having a week off to celebrate his significant birthday, and off the bench is supersub David Prutton. Joining Prutts this week is Swansea City boss Russell Martin to discuss his side’s superb form of late, and while that hasn’t gone unnoticed by the rest of the league, Russell is keen to keep his men slightly under the radar and isn’t getting carried away. It’s all about ‘Rainbow Laces’ at this time of year, and Prutts is joined by the EFL’s brilliant head of EDI David McArdle, to talk about the activity that’s happening at clubs up and down the country, and after more than a decade in Australia, the former Sunderland and Leeds United legend Michael Bridges is back and making his punditry debut on the official EFL podcast. He was pretty special as a player, and as a pundit he’s equally top class!

S5 Ep13: The one and only Sir Les Ferdinand!

The Content Works — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 13:00:00 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is entertaining English football royalty in the form of QPR’s director of football, Sir Les Ferdinand! Elsewhere, Clem also gets to catch up with one of his favourite men in the game, Oxford United manager Karl Robinson for a spot of EFL punditry, and to discuss his ambitions to one day reach the milestone of 1000 professional league games as a manager.

S5 Ep12: Eustace and his blues brothers, and the inspirational Joe Thompson!

The Content Works — Thu, 13 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Birmingham City manager John Eustace, to discuss life at St Andrew’s and what’s possible for the blues this season. Elsewhere, Clem also sits down with the brilliant Joe Thompson, to talk about the incredible way that he’s coped with all that’s been thrown at him over the last few years, and in addition to his inspirational and motivational attitude to life, he’s also a bit of a punditry pro as well!

S5 Ep11: The grass is always greener for Luton’s Henri Lansbury and Richard Wellens welcomes us aboard his Orient express!

The Content Works — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Luton’s Henri Lansbury to talk mowing, planting, seeding and weeding as the hatters midfielder explains his love of gardening. It’s not all horticulture for Henri though, as there’s a bit of football chat sprinkled over the surface, and Clem is also joined by Leyton Orient manager Richie Wellens, to talk about his side’s impressive start to the season and to deliver some top notch punditry across all 3 divisions!

S5 Ep10: Paul Warne's new adventures at Derby County and Phil Brown shares with us his pearls wisdom!

The Content Works — Thu, 29 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000

It's been a week of managerial headline makers in the EFL, with record breaking tenures celebrated, short lived appointment shockers, and exciting new appointments such as Paul Warne's move to Derby County. Paul describes to Mark Clemmit how leaving Rotherham after so long at the club was one of the hardest decisions he's ever had to make, but how he simply couldn't turn down the chance to manage a club the size of Derby County. And casting his insightful eyes on all the week's big news is the one and only Phil Brown, who entertains and educates in equal measures as always!

S5 Ep9: Clem, Jobi and Schuey

The Content Works — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, it does exactly what it says on the tin! Clem is joined by top pundit Jobi McAnuff for a full review of the season so far as we enter the international break, and Plymouth manager Steven Schumacher discusses his side’s great start and how much he’s enjoying life in the sunny southwest!

S5 Ep8: Prutts previews the weekend with Courtney Sweetman-Kirk

The Content Works — Thu, 15 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000

In the week that has seen the EFL and sport in this country as a whole pay their respects to Queen Elizabeth the second, David Prutton sits in for Mark Clemmit who is away for a week. Prutton’s guest is his Sky Sports colleague and Sheffield United Women’s forward Courtney Sweetman-Kirk, who provides some expert analysis on all the big ties across all three divisions, as the leagues return to normal this weekend.

S5 Ep7: Tim Krul on his Norwich side's promotion prospects, and Matt Taylor's Exeter City and the emotional return of one of their own

The Content Works — Thu, 08 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This week on the official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Dutch superstar keeper Tim Krul, to discuss his Norwich side's push for promotion back to the premier league, and what they've learnt from the past few seasons. Clem also welcomes Exeter City's brilliant head coach Matt Taylor, in a week that has seen the emotional return to the club on loan of young forward Jay Stansfield, who's regained the formerly retired No.9 shirt of his father Adam Stansfield, who tragically lost his battle with cancer in 2010.

S5 Ep6: Danny Cowley and his Pompey Table Toppers!

The Content Works — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Portsmouth manager Danny Cowley, who knows a thing or two about winning promotion during his impressive career alongside brother Nicky. Clem wants to dig down on the secrets to their high flying success, in terms of man management, team bonding and instilling that winning mentality, as well as getting Danny's expert opinion on all the major issues across the EFL, and his thoughts on all this weekend's top ties in the Skybet Championship, League One and League Two!

S5 Ep5: Ollie Norwood on the blades cutting edge, and Steve Evans discusses his Stevenage side's strong start

The Content Works — Thu, 25 Aug 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit talks to Sheffield United's Ollie Norwood about how they plan to make promotion a priority this season, and the EFL's head of EDI David McArdle, explains the league's new initiative which encompasses a 5 year plan to improve equality, diversity and inclusivity within football in this country. Also joining Clem, is the brilliant Steve Evans who explains his Stevenage side's strong start to their Skybet League Two campaign, as well as providing some expert punditry on this weekend's games and all of the major talking points of the last week.

S5 Ep4: Together with EDI and PNE’s Ryan Lowe on all this week’s big talking points across the EFL

The Content Works — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Preston North End manager Ryan Lowe, to talk about his side’s impressive start to the season in the Skybet Championship, as well as all the major talking points across all three Skybet leagues. And to highlight the launch of the EFL’s new equality, diversity and inclusion initiative ‘Together’, Clem sits down with Jarnail Singh, the league’s first Sikh referee, who’s now retired and the proud father of Sunny Singh Gill, who became the EFL’s first British south Asian referee for over a decade and since his father’s days, when he took charge of Northampton Town versus Hartlepool United in Skybet League Two last weekend.

S5 Ep3: Reading’s Tom Ince is doing his dad proud and Walsall are off to a flyer as it’s win win for Mike Flynn!

The Content Works — Thu, 11 Aug 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit has the pleasure of catching up with Reading’s Tom Ince, after he scored that worldie last weekend to make his dad super proud, and Mike Flynn’s Walsall sit top of Skybet League Two, with a maximum 6 points from their first two games!

S5 Ep2: Lionesses, Hornets, Rovers and a Barrow load of possibilities!

The Content Works — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this week’s official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit has pulled out all the stops as he sits down with new Watford boss Rob Edwards about his big step up from Skybet division two to the championship. He also hears from Blackburn Rovers Ladies manager Gemma Donnelly, about proudly bringing through some of the Lionesses stars on their fantastic Euro winning successes last weekend, and sticking in the north west, Clem catches up with Barrow’s exciting new young manager Pete Wild, who hopes he’s found his perfect fit with the Cumbrian club.

S5 Ep1: The New Season Preview with Curtis Davies

The Content Works — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 05:00:00 +0000

The summer break is over in the football world, and Mark Clemmit returns for a brand new full EFL season preview with Derby County captain Curtis Davies!

S4 Ep46: The best of the guests part 2!

The Content Works — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 13:47:17 +0000

It's that time of the year where we like to bring you a little compilation of the most memorable interviews that Mark Clemmit has done this season, so following our best of the guests part 1 which we gave you at Christmas, we hope you enjoy this part 2 episode as a little summer treat!

S4 Ep45: Season Review 2021-2022

The Content Works — Wed, 01 Jun 2022 14:42:33 +0000

Now that everything has been concluded in all 3 divisions of the EFL, it's time for Mark Clemmit and David Prutton, to sit down and have a full and detailed review of the season that was 2021-2022!

S4 Ep44: Playoff Finals Preview with Owen Coyle

The Content Works — Wed, 25 May 2022 15:03:35 +0000

With the playoff finals for the Skybet Championship and League Two being held at Wembley this weekend, Mark Clemmit is joined by the brilliant Owen Coyle for some punditry perfection, as he gives his thoughts on Mansfield Town v Port Vale and Huddersfield Town v Nottingham Forest, to assess who he thinks have got the best chance of going up into the division above. Whatever the results, it promises to be two glorious days out at the national stadium.

S4 Ep43: Cowley’s league one playoff final preview, and Challinor’s relishing the challenge of the football league next season!

The Content Works — Thu, 19 May 2022 15:38:17 +0000

With Saturday’s Wembley final between Sunderland and Wycombe Wanderers only days away, Mark Clemmit is joined by Portsmouth’s Danny Cowley to preview the tie and provide some expert punditry on all the week’s other big issues. Elsewhere, Stockport County manager Dave Challinor has begun the journey to bring the club back to where it belongs. Next year they tackle league two, hoping to use their momentum to go straight through it at the first attempt.

S4 Ep42: Expert insight and analysis from Mark Robins and Jamille Matt lifts the lid on Forest Green Rovers’ title celebrations!

The Content Works — Thu, 12 May 2022 13:04:37 +0000

Coventry City boss Mark Robins has been there and done it in the game, and there are few who know more about the inner workings of the football business than him. He sits down with Mark Clemmit to talk about the season they’ve just had personally, but also offers his thoughts on the Championship playoffs pack as things start to hot up. No playoffs required for Forest Green Rovers’ striker Jamille Matt, as they’ve booked their place in Skybet League One next season in style. There’s been one or two parties for the Gloucestershire club, and now Jamma is looking forward to putting his feet up for a bit of well earned rest! The interview with Jamille Matt was recorded before the announcement of the departure of manager Rob Edwards.

S4 Ep41: Wigan are champions of League One and Mitrovic has set the Championship on fire!

The Content Works — Wed, 04 May 2022 19:55:19 +0000

Wigan boss Leam Richardson has done an outstanding job with the Latics, and joins Mark Clemmit to talk about the extraordinary season that has seen his side top Skybet League One as their season comes to a close. Meanwhile 43 goals and counting, has seen Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic smash the 42 goal record held by Guy Whittingham for nearly 3 decades! Guy talks to Clem about the Serbian's phenomenal goal haul, and how with mixed emotions he sees his place in the record books finally taken.

S4 Ep40: Job done by the The Guv'nor and Jobi McAnuff reflects on receiving the prestigious Sir Tom Finney Award 2022

The Content Works — Wed, 27 Apr 2022 16:34:59 +0000

Reading's interim manager Paul Ince came in with the job of securing the Royals championship status for next season, and with games to spare he's done just that. Incy catches up with Clem about his plans for the future, and also shares the secrets of his great looking hair. Elsewhere, Jobi McAnuff was honoured at last Sunday's annual EFL Awards in London, with the prestigious Sir Tom Finney Award for his outstanding contribution to the game during a glittering 20 plus year career. Naturally, Clem wants to find out more about Jobi's early life in Football, and also get him to do some punditry on all 3 divisions while he's got him in the studio!

S4 Ep39: The full fallout from a busy Easter weekend of fixtures

The Content Works — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 17:05:22 +0000

David Prutton is in the Clem for another week, as he looks back on a busy weekend of fixtures across the EFL and the effect it’s had on the top and bottom of the tables. Joining him are Millwall manager Gary Rowett, whose side’s impressive run of form in the second half of the season, currently sees them sit seventh in the Skybet Championship, only one point off the playoff places, and former Sunderland manager Lee Johnson provides Prutts with a post-Easter punditry mop-up across all three divisions.

S4 Ep38: Prutts in for Clem with Boro's Chris Wilder, Wednesday's Barry Bannan and Vale's Andy Crosby

The Content Works — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 15:35:35 +0000

With Mark Clemmit enjoying a well earned break for a fortnight, David Prutton comes straight off the bench to deputise, and he's brought some star guests with him this week! He kicks off with Middlesbrough's Chris Wilder who gives a frank and honest assessment of his side and the situation they find themselves in, as they continue their push for the playoffs after a couple of disappointing results. Skybet League One player of the season for March Barry Bannan, discusses life at Hillsborough and how there's still plenty of life left in those 32 year old legs of his, and acting head coach of Port Vale Andy Crosby, reflects on his side's superb run of form of late, that might just see them a bag an automatic promotion place out of Skybet League Two!

S4 Ep37: Harry Cornick’s Luton Town keep pushing towards the promised land, and Alex Neil understands the scrutiny and pressure involved in managing a club the size of Sunderland

The Content Works — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0000

It’s a busy one this week as Mark Clemmit welcomes Luton Town striker Harry Cornick into his virtual studio, to ask whether he thinks they really can keep pushing towards a dream return to the top flight from non league in just 8 seasons! Clem also catches up with Sunderland boss Alex Neil on the challenge ahead at the stadium of light after an impressive upturn in form of late, and CEO of The EFL Trust Mike Evans, describes some of the amazing projects happening right now during this year’s EFL Week of Action.

S4 Ep36: The EFL's 'Week of Action' Special 2022

The Content Works — Tue, 05 Apr 2022 11:13:40 +0000

Building upon the success of the EFL's 'Day of Action' in previous years, where all 72 clubs take part in programmes and projects within their local community that offer support and services to those that need them most, this year the offering has been increased across the board as the initiative spans a week rather than just a single day. To find out a little more about what's been happening this year, Mark Clemmit sits down for a chat with three individuals from different parts of the country and very different walks of life, to hear their stories and how their lives have all been positively impacted by the work of their EFL clubs in the communities.

S4 Ep35: Preview of the Papa John's Trophy Final

The Content Works — Wed, 30 Mar 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This weekend, Wembley Stadium plays host to the Papa John's Trophy Final 2022 between Rotherham United and Sutton United, and Mark Clemmit is joined by the two men who's sides will face each other, Rotherham's Paul Warne and Sutton's Matt Gray. The two have never met each in the flesh and Clem has the honour of introducing them both on this week's official EFL podcast. In addition to that, Clem is joined by new Barrow manager Phil Brown who talks about his new challenge with the Cumbrian League Two side, and provides some expert punditry as he previews this weekend's Skybet Championship fixtures which return after the international break.

S4 Ep34: Manning the progress at Milton Keynes, and ‘loan rangers’ Hugill and Collins on the art of self belief and proving people wrong

The Content Works — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 20:20:20 +0000

He’s taken a slightly unorthodox route to Skybet League One management, but the skills he’s learnt in his coaching career in this country and beyond, have certainly equipped Liam Manning with the tools and the vision, to get MK Dons to where the club’s owner and the fans, want and expect them to be.

Elsewhere, Clem catches up with two young strikers who’ve played for more than two dozen clubs between them before either has reached the ripe old age of 30, but who seem to have found the right fit this season in their respective squads. Jordan Hugill on loan from Norwich City and scoring regularly for Cardiff, and Newport born Aaron Collins crossing the Severn on a daily basis as top scorer for Bristol Rovers.

S4 Ep33: Life between the sticks for Christian Walton and Richie Wellens adjusts to living in the big smoke

The Content Works — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 06:00:00 +0000

On this week's official EFL Podcast, Mark Clemmit chats to Ipswich Town's Christian Walton about his impressive stats between the sticks this season, that have contributed to a fine run of form for the tractor boys under Kieran McKenna, and Richie Wellens reflects on what he's learnt over the past few years in management, and how he's using that to good effect with new club Leyton Orient.

S4 Ep32: A game for Ukraine as football stands together

The Content Works — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 06:00:00 +0000

On this week's official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit chats to Colchester United's owner and chairman Robbie Cowling, about his forthcoming fundraising game for Ukraine against Skybet League Two table toppers Forest Green Rovers. Elsewhere, Clem is joined by Nigel Adkins for a full and in-depth preview of this weekend's fixtures, and Carlisle United's Paul Simpson reflects on 3 wins out of 3 since returning to Brunton Park.

S4 Ep31: Mark Hughes is excited by the challenge ahead at Bradford City

The Content Works — Thu, 03 Mar 2022 06:00:00 +0000

As a player, he won just about everything with the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea, and having been out of management for just over three years since leaving Southampton at the end of 2018, Mark Hughes felt the time was right for a new challenge when he was unveiled as the new manager of Bradford City a week ago. He chats to Clem about the hunger he has to bring success to Valley Parade and how he’s enjoying getting to know his new club and players. 30 miles south in Barnsley, Carlton Morris has been winning admirers for his recent performances in front of goal, and explains how 3 wins from their last 4 and a positive atmosphere in the dressing room, has given him and the team a genuine belief that they may just avoid the drop, and pull off what looked impossible only a few weeks ago.

S4 Ep30: Carabao Cup Final Preview

The Content Works — Thu, 24 Feb 2022 06:30:00 +0000

This week it’s all about the Carabao Cup Final, as Mark Clemmit previews Sunday’s showpiece event as Chelsea take on Liverpool at Wembley. Clem is joined by Garry Monk who reminisces about his own day at Wembley in February 2013, when he lifted the trophy as club captain of Swansea City. Elsewhere, Clem catches up with Cheltenham Town boss Michael Duff on life in Skybet League One and that 5-5 game of the season last weekend against Wycombe, and new Walsall manager Mike Flynn assesses the task ahead at the Bescot, as he looks to quickly improve the fortunes of the Saddlers.

S4 Ep29: Ryan Lowe, James Coppinger and Matt Jay

The Content Works — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 06:00:00 +0000

It’s a bumper packed edition of the podcast this week, as Mark Clemmit lays out the red carpet for 3 top guests representing the Skybet Championship, League One and league Two. First up, Ryan Lowe on that difficult move away from Plymouth, coupled with the ambition and challenges ahead with new club Preston North End. League One legend, Doncaster Rovers head of player development and now published author James Coppinger, drops buy to talk about life beyond his playing days, and how he’s using his vast knowledge to help the next generation, and Exeter City captain Matt Jay, describes the pride of leading out his boyhood club and shares some tips for dealing with the delivery and installation of white goods! It could only be the official EFL podcast!

S4 Ep28: Youth Development Week Special

The Content Works — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 06:00:00 +0000

It’s EFL Youth Development Week, and in order to shine a light on the brilliant work done in our EFL club academies up and down the country, Mark Clemmit speaks to Steve Avory who’s worked in Charlton Athletic’s academy for more than 20 years and now runs the operation. Steve and his team have produced the likes of Jonjoe Shelvey, Ademola Lookman, Joe Gomes and Ezri Konsa to name but a few, and are one of the most admired academy set ups in the country. Elsewhere, a recent head injury forced Wycombe Wanderers legend Matt Bloomfield to call time on a long and illustrious career, and he’s keen to make people aware of his experiences, and Clem also speaks to Newport County's goal machine Dom Telford, about staying on top of the goalscorers chart, in the rough and tumble world of Skybet League Two!

S4 Ep27: Transfer deadline day Todd’s a cherry and Paul Tisdale’s tasked with getting Stevenage up the table

The Content Works — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 06:00:00 +0000

He’s only been at Bournemouth for a couple of days, but already Todd Cantwell has lofty ambitions for himself and his high flying Bournemouth team mates. A return to the promised land of the premier league is what Cantwell has set his sights on, and with Scott Parker steering the next part of the young midfielder’s career, he’s confident he can do just that. Elsewhere, Clem sits down for a fascinating chat with Stevenage manager Paul Tisdale, who’s knowledge of the game has been crafted through many years of studious man management.

S4 Ep26: Nigel Pearson ponders the pressure cooker world of football management, and homegrown striker Matty Taylor joins an elite club at Oxford United

The Content Works — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 21:57:47 +0000

He’s been in the game a long time and is vastly experienced, but Bristol City manager Nigel Pearson understands only too well how much pressure you have to absorb when you’re living life on a knife edge, as he explains perfectly during a fascinating chat with Clem. Elsewhere, homegrown Oxford United striker Matty Taylor has seen his career come full circle, having been released by his boyhood club as a teenager, he fought back through non league and graduated up the football ladder, to not only come back to Oxford as a polished striker, but one who has now entered the club’s history books!

S4 Ep25: It's the Gaffers this week, with David Artell and Jon Brady joining Clem.

The Content Works — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 17:25:21 +0000

This week, Clem is joined by David Artell, who has been at the helm of Crewe Alexandra for the past 5 years, and Jon Brady, who swapped Newcastle in Australia for the lovely weather of Northampton Town!

S4 Ep24: Magical moments from last weekend’s cup drama and a Micky Mellon management masterclass!

The Content Works — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 07:20:27 +0000

There are some over the years who have criticised the FA cup for not being the competition it once was. Weakened teams, lesser crowds and altogether not the competition it was apparently, yet last weekend’s third round was an absolute belter! Huge goals, huge shocks and some magnificent performances from lower league teams to knock out top flight opposition. Mark Clemmit catches up with the man who grabbed all of the headlines, Cambridge United’s Joe Ironside, who’s goal despatched one of the world’s richest clubs, Newcastle United.

Elsewhere, Huddersfield Town’s league and cup form has been impressive of late and Clem speaks to their 29 year old Liverpool born keeper Lee Nicholls, to find out what it is that has just clicked under Carlos Corberan, and sticking with the theme of good management, Micky Mellon shares some of his leadership skills, that have seen his Tranmere Rovers side go on a run of 6 unbeaten games in the league, and have also attracted the attentions of multinational corporations, who want to tap into his Micky Mellon management methodology.

S4 Ep23: Paul Heckingbottom on keeping his blades sharp, and Nigel Clough on that incredible turnaround of form at Mansfield!

The Content Works — Thu, 06 Jan 2022 09:21:57 +0000

They do say it’s a funny old game, but the Christmas and New Year fixture schedule has created a very different type of challenge for many managers this year. Rather than the relentless schedule of match after match in a short period of time, this year covid and injuries have resulted in many being postponed, and then the challenge is keeping the players sharp and on form as Sheffield United’s Paul Heckingbottom explains to Mark Clemmit. Elsewhere at Mansfield Town, Nigel Clough had cause to be fearful of the sack only a couple of months ago after a torrid run of form, before a total turnaround saw his side go on a blistering run of 10 wins in 11 games which have hauled his stags right up the table in Skybet League Two! Cloughie sits down with Clem to explain exactly what happened!

S4 Ep22: The best of the guests part one!

The Content Works — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000

It’s been quite an eventful season so far and we’re only at the halfway point! To celebrate some of the brilliant interviews that Clem has done with the biggest names in the Skybet Championship, League One and League Two over the past 5 months, here’s a festive little best of the guests so far this season, on the official EFL podcast!

S4 Ep21: A pre Christmas round up, with Clem and Prutts!

The Content Works — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 19:01:49 +0000

As we all get ready for the festive season, (covid permitting) Clem is joined by his old mate David Prutton, to mull over the season so far and where we find ourselves at the back end of 2021. There’s plenty to discuss, and if you’ve ever heard Clem and Prutts before, you’ll know that they’ve normally got plenty to say!

S4 Ep20: Tony Mowbray, Cole Stockton and Exeter City’s Matt Taylor!

The Content Works — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 11:49:00 +0000

It’s a jam packed, bumper edition of the official EFL podcast this week, as Mark Clemmit sits down with 3 big hitters. Tony Mowbray’s high flying Blackburn Rovers have been on a roll of late, but now is the time for some big management decisions, as he has to keep his squad together and fit to face the pressures of the Christmas and New Year fixture list. Morecambe’s goalscoring hotshot Cole Stockton has been in the best form of his life, although he takes it all in his stride and remains extremely grounded, despite the David Beckham comparisons following that 60 yard worldie against Fleetwood Town! And Clem has a chance to chat to one of the EFL’s most exciting young managers, Matt Taylor from Exeter City, not to be confused with Matthew Taylor at Walsall, even though he often is! Matt is honest, open and pragmatic when it comes to his Exeter City side, and knows that they punch well above their weight when it comes to holding their own in Skybet League Two.

S4 Ep19: Fulham’s Tom Cairney is eyeing up a return to the premier league, and we meet the EFL’s new head of equality, diversity and inclusion, David McArdle.

The Content Works — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 12:43:54 +0000

This week Mark Clemmit sits down for a chat with Tom Cairney, to find out what the mood is like inside high flying Fulham’s training ground, and Clem is joined by David McArdle from the EFL, to reflect on this week’s first ever Rainbow Laces fans forum, which was broadcast live from London on Monday night.

S4 Ep18: Reading between the lines

The Content Works — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 01:45:00 +0000

On this week’s podcast, Mark Clemmit sits down with Reading’s charismatic manager Veljko Paunovic, to discuss the struggles of season two, and EFL Chairman Rick Parry and Accrington Stanley’s owner Andy Holt weigh up the fall out from last week’s eagerly awaited Fan Led Review.

S4 Ep17: Sol Bamba reflects on a life changing 12 months, that sees him back doing what he does best, against all the odds.

The Content Works — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 16:57:31 +0000

A little under a year ago in December 2020, Sol Bamba was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and the prospect of his own personal fight against cancer in the early part of 2021. Having been through an extraordinary journey, he catches up with Mark Clemmit about life at the Riverside with new club Middlesbrough, who Clem has more than a little soft spot for as well! Elsewhere, it’s time for some pure punditry perfection from Jobi McAnuff, who’s adjusting to life after football, and the very different pressures of being an in-demand media commentator!

S4 Ep16: Michael O’Neill and Keith Hill. Two very different managers with two very different objectives this season

The Content Works — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 10:02:25 +0000

Two managers this week in two very different situations. Michael O’Neill’s Stoke City sit 5th in The Championship after an impressive start, and have surely got the playoffs in their sights as they look to keep pace with the pack. Elsewhere, the EFL’s bottom club Scunthorpe United remain rooted to the foot of Skybet League Two, but have a new man at the helm, and he’s a man with a point to prove. Keith Hill’s CV stacks up with the best of them and there’s not many people that know more about League Two than him. He’s got a challenge on his hands to keep them in the EFL, but it’s a challenge he’s relishing and he’s certainly going to give it a good go!

S4 Ep15: Mark Robins and Glenn Murray on Clem's virtual sofa!

The Content Works — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 09:27:51 +0000

It's a jam packed edition of the official EFL podcast this week as Mark Clemmit welcomes 3 guests onto his virtual sofa! Mark Robins joins him to talk about his Coventry side's impressive form of late, we learn about a new programme set to improve the fitness of fans, and Clem has a fascinating catch up with Glenn Murray, 6 months after hanging up his boots.

S4 Ep14: Warnock breaks the all time managerial record and Ryan Lowe’s on a high in Plymouth

The Content Works — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 10:55:00 +0000

This week Neil Warnock took charge of his 1602nd match as a manager, breaking an all time record held by Dario Gradi. It’s a remarkable achievement from one of the great characters of the game, and Mark Clemmit is joined by Michael Brown who knows Warnock only too well, having played for him at Sheffield United and Leeds United, and former referee Mark Halsey, who had a few runs ins with him over the years, as did most match officials!

Elsewhere, Ryan Lowe’s high flying Plymouth side have had a fantastic start to the season, as he joins Clem for a catch up on life in the sunny south west, and how there’s an exiled Scousers mini league emerging in Skybet League One!

S4 Ep13: Scott Parker’s high flying cherries and Owen Coyle is live from Goa!

The Content Works — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 17:05:00 +0000

Scott Parker agrees that Bournemouth seem a perfect fit for him, but he’s cautious about getting carried away, as he sits down and explains his thinking to Mark Clemmit. His table topping Bournemouth side will have tough tests throughout the season, he has no doubts, but for now they’re flying high and he’s enjoying his time on the south coast. Further afield but equally close to the beach, Owen Coyle is live from Goa, as he’s based over there as the boss of Jamshedspur FC in the Indian Super League. He may be nearly 5000 miles away, but his knowledge of the daily goings on at every level within the EFL is encyclopaedic, as he proves once again with Clem, as the two dissect all the latest news this week!

S4 Ep12: Viv Anderson - A True Pioneer.

The Content Works — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 09:05:40 +0000

To celebrate Black History Month, Mark Clemmit sits down for a one on one chat with one of the greatest players in the history of English football, and a legend for club and country. As the first black footballer to appear in a full international for England in 1978, Viv Anderson's life and career is a remarkable one, which Clem is privileged enough to hear about first hand, from the man himself.

S4 Ep11: World Mental Health Day Special

The Content Works — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 22:48:43 +0000

As we shine a light on this week’s ‘world mental health day’, Mark Clemmit is joined by two men who have played football at the highest level, but have also suffered years of struggle and torment dealing with their own mental health issues. Darren Eadie and Chris Kirkland bravely discuss all they have been through, and offer advice to those who have struggled, or may still be battling their own demons. In an age where statistically it seems to be more and more common, especially amongst young men, this is an episode that everyone should take the time to listen to.

S4 Ep10: Clem Meets The Management!

The Content Works — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 21:30:00 +0000

As we find ourselves in the second International break of the season, it would seem a perfect time to get away from the weekly ups and downs of results and league table positions, and focus on the men who sit in the hot seat at 3 of our EFL clubs, in each of the 3 Skybet league divisions. On the panel this week are Swansea City's head coach Russell Martin, Rotherham United's long serving and highly experienced manager Paul Warne, and the man charged with getting Stevenage up the divisions, Alex Revell. The holy trinity of grafting gaffers share a laugh over common ground and shared experiences, and mull over the rollercoaster world that they find themselves in, as Mark Clemmit takes us on in-depth journey into the anatomy of a manager!

S4 Ep9: Charlie Austin on life at QPR, where it just feels right, and lifelong friends Paul Cook and John Coleman prepare to go head to head this weekend, as Accrington Stanley entertain Ipswich on Saturday!

The Content Works — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 12:25:00 +0000

One of the biggest names in the game, Charlie Austin joins Mark Clemmit to talk about his life and career, what he’s learnt along the way, and what he can bring back with him to QPR, the club that just seems to be a perfect fit, time and time again. Elsewhere, this weekend sees the only fixture that will ever put Paul Cook and John Coleman’s lifelong friendship on hold (until 5pm Saturday) as Paul’s Ipswich travel to John’s Accrington, and if it’s anything like as entertaining as Clem’s chat with these two this week, the crowd at the Crown ground are in for a cracker!

S4 Ep8: Blackburn’s Ben Brereton Diaz, on being the poster boy for Pepsi in Chile, and Clem and Copps fall out over ‘that incident!’

The Content Works — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 15:00:00 +0000

It must be very odd for a lad from Stoke on Trent to be suddenly representing your mum’s home nation of Chile, especially when you don’t speak Spanish, but that’s exactly what’s happened to Blackburn Rovers Ben Brereton Diaz in the last 12 months, who recently lined up against the likes of Messi and Neymar in the Copa America!

A little closer to home, recently retired Doncaster Rovers legend, and now a key member of Richie Wellens coaching staff, James Coppinger gives Clem his expert opinion on all the week’s EFL news, but unfortunately they don’t agree on everything!

S4 Ep7: Billy the Blade and his love for Bramall Lane, and Ian Evatt explains his vision for Bolton Wanderers and where he plans to take The Trotters.

The Content Works — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 21:45:00 +0000

Billy Sharp is Sheffield United through and through, and in his third spell with his boyhood club, the 35 year old goalscoring captain shows no sign of stopping any time soon, and is targeting another impressive haul this season and hopefully a new contract with the blades. Elsewhere, Clem catches up with Ian Evatt, who’s had a short but very impressive spell in management thus far. First with Barrow and now with Bolton Wanderers, who he picked up in Skybet League Two, has got them into League One at the first attempt, and now has his sights set firmly on the Championship as his next big goal for the club.

S4 Ep6: Welcome home Troy Deeney, and Clem serves up a slice of punditry perfection, courtesy of Owen Coyle!

The Content Works — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 21:50:00 +0000

He spent 12 years at Vicarage Road, which is enough to cement and secure a very special place in Troy Deeney’s heart, but when his boyhood club came knocking, at the age of 33 he couldn’t possibly turn them down. Arguably the biggest story of the recent EFL transfer window, Mark Clemmit catches up with his old mate, to find out what it feels like to be finally coming home! And when it comes to unparalleled knowledge of players, management, stats and stories from one end of the pyramid to the other, there are few finer than Owen Coyle! Always entertaining and informative in fairly equal measure, it’s a pleasure to hear Owen and Clem look forward to what’s in store for the next few weeks!

S4 Ep5: A little look at the first 4 weeks, and a slice of Brazilian flair in The Potteries!

The Content Works — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 22:30:00 +0000

Brazilian goalkeeper Lucas Covolan joined Port Vale this summer at the age of 30, after a 15 year journey through the lower leagues in his homeland, in Spain and in this country where his heroics for Torquay United in their playoff final in June, secured him a move away to Vale Park and a chance to play league football under Darrell Clarke. His is a remarkable story and serves as an inspiration to us all about the importance of keeping going in search of those goals and ambitions, even when the going gets ever so slightly tough! Elsewhere, Clem catches up with Wigan manager Leam Richardson, who’s also had a tough couple of years for different reasons, but is now relishing life in the gaffer’s office at the DW Stadium, and football commentator extraordinaire Paul Walker, gives us his in depth thoughts on the first 4 weeks in the Skybet Championship, with his customary style and punditry perfection!

S4 Ep4: We are in the kitchen with Mick McCarthy and off to league newcomers, Sutton United to catch up with Matt Gray.

The Content Works — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 09:22:05 +0000

This week Clem caught up with Cardiff City manager Mick McCarthy to chat about his legendary career over pie & mash and as Sutton United prepare for their first ever league game, we caught up with their manager, Matt Gray to find out a bit more about the league's newcomers.

S4 Ep3: Rock n Roll at The Valley, and Rob and his high flying Rovers!

The Content Works — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 08:30:00 +0000

When we think of owners of football clubs, we don’t normally have an image of them with a Flying V electric guitar in hand rocking out in front of a full house, but that’s exactly what Charlton Athletic’s Danish owner Thomas Sandgaard was doing last weekend, ahead of their home game against Sheffield Wednesday at The Valley! He’s certainly one of the more interesting and colourful characters in the game, and Mark Clemmit catches up with him to find out how the last year has been and what his plans are for the league one club in the years to come. Elsewhere in Skybet league two, Forest Green Rovers new boss Rob Edwards has made a perfect start to his club’s campaign, and sits down with Clem to talk about his vision for the future and the vegan powered philosophy that’s going to get them there!

S4 Ep2: The hatters aren't mad but the shrimps are certainly jumping! It could only be the official EFL podcast.

The Content Works — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 06:00:00 +0000

This week, Mark Clemmit is joined by a bumper crop of guests representing all 3 divisions in the EFL. A very calm, focused and pragmatic Nathan Jones, explains his long term plans for Luton Town. Hartlepool United are back in the football league and manager Dave Challinor talks to Clem about life at The Victoria Ground, while battling one of the worst colds we've ever heard on the podcast, and in the middle of all of of that, what a week for Morecambe! An opening day 2-2 draw away at Portman Road last Saturday and a midweek win away at local rivals Blackburn to knock them out of the Carabao Cup! No wonder the fans, the players, and the chairman are bouncing!

S4 Ep1: The EFL 2021/2022 Season Preview

The Content Works — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 09:48:55 +0000

It’s the first day back for Mark Clemmit as he looks forward to a brand new season in the EFL. It’s been quite a year for many people, including Shrewsbury boss Steve Cotterill, who spent a large part of last season in hospital fighting Covid, and considers himself lucky to be on the road to recovery now thanks to the treatment he received from the NHS. Steve explains the living nightmare he went through, and how the whole experience has made him totally re-evaluate everything.

Plus, it wouldn’t be a season opener without a Prutts Preview, so Clem is joined by his old mate David Prutton, to take a look at the runners and riders across all three divisions, as we look forward to the opening weekend’s fixtures of the EFL’s 2021/2022 Season!

S3 Ep45: EFL Special Series Episode 4 - Legal and Governance at the EFL

The Content Works — Sat, 31 Jul 2021 16:18:16 +0000

In the final episode of this four-part mini-series looking at the inner workings and functions of The EFL, Mark Clemmit chats to the EFL’s Legal and Governance Director Nick Craig, who explains all the things we never knew about ownership criteria, the rules and regulations designed to create, maintain and protect fair competition, and the EFL’s overall role and responsibility as the league’s governing body.

S3 Ep44: EFL Special Series Episode 3 - A Sustainable Future

The Content Works — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 18:29:27 +0000

In the third episode of this four-part mini-series looking at the inner workings and functions of The EFL, Mark Clemmit chats to EFL Chief Executive Trevor Birch to reflect on the challenges faced by EFL Clubs over the past 16 months and to understand more about the EFL’s proposals for financial reform to provide sustainability for Clubs, who are the beating heart of communities across England and Wales. This episode was recorded remotely.

S3 Ep43: EFL Special Series Episode 2 - The Fixture Generator

The Content Works — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 16:44:41 +0000

In the second episode of this four-part mini-series looking at the inner workings and functions of The EFL, Mark Clemmit chats to Ben Wright, Chief Commercial Officer and Paul Snellgrove, Competitions Manager to learn more about how EFL fixtures are compiled and how that process links to the EFL’s broadcast and streaming arrangements following a year of football being played behind closed doors.

S3 Ep42: EFL Special Series Episode 1 - The Next Generation

The Content Works — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 11:07:51 +0000

In the first episode of this four-part mini-series looking at the inner workings and functions of The EFL, Mark Clemmit chats to Dave Wetherall, Head of Youth Development and Alex Richards, Head of Safeguarding to learn more about how the system works, and the responsibility that the EFL has to educate, protect and nurture the next generation of footballing talent.

S3 Ep41: The Best Of The Guests Part Two!

The Content Works — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 10:57:38 +0000

t’s the final episode of the official EFL podcast for the 2020/2021 season, and we thought we had to end with a best of! Now that everything has been concluded and the close season is upon us, Mark Clemmit takes a fond look back at some of the best interviews that we’ve been lucky enough to share with you over the last 9 months, so sit back, relax and enjoy, as Clem brings you the very best of the guests part two!

S3 Ep40: Season Review with Jobi McAnuff

The Content Works — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 16:38:24 +0000

Who better to join Mark Clemmit and cast an expert eye over this extraordinary season, than the former Wimbledon, West Ham, Cardiff City, Crystal Palace, Watford, Reading, Stevenage and Leyton Orient legend that is Jobi McAnuff! Jobi recently announced his retirement from professional football, and now looks forward to spending more time with his wife and kids and concentrating on life beyond a 20 year playing career. Clem and Jobi discuss his own personal achievements over the last two decades, as well as the playoff champions from last weekend and have a look ahead to the Euros which are just around the corner. McAnuff is enough when it comes to this penultimate episode of the official EFL podcast, and it’s a joy to hear these two expertly dissect everything and everything EFL related, as we enter the close season.

S3 Ep39: A professional playoffs preview with Prutts

The Content Works — Wed, 26 May 2021 10:05:28 +0000

Sometimes you don’t need to over complicate things. Simple ingredients and a simple recipe often create the best results, and that’s very much the case with this week’s official EFL podcast. 3 playoff finals, expertly previewed by 2 men in just under 1 hour. Like steak and chips or bread and butter, the joy is in its simplicity and youwon't find a better playoff preview than Clem and Prutts playing at the top of their game!

S3 Ep38: Three inspirational stories from three wise men, looking back on a season like no other!

The Content Works — Wed, 19 May 2021 10:52:27 +0000

With next week being our big preview of the playoff finals, Mark Clemmit this week sits down to have a frank and honest chat with 3 inspirational gentlemen representing each of the 3 divisions within the EFL. Exiting the championship with nothing but pride in himself and his players is Wycombe Wanderers extraordinary coach Gareth Ainsworth. Erik Samuelson talks about his own personal role in the return of Wimbledon to Plough Lane and what it will be like to finally have the fans back in, and Mark Bonner looks back at Cambridge United’s fantastic achievement in Skybet League Two, which sees them promoted and competing with some very big clubs next season in League One!

S3 Ep37: Look back at an extraordinary season, a preview of the upcoming playoffs, and Kevin Ellison is here to talk about his own personal battle with depression and anxiety, as we reflect on Mental Health Awareness Week.

The Content Works — Wed, 12 May 2021 19:16:52 +0000

It’s been a season that none of us will ever forget and in the most challenging of circumstances, football in this country has pulled together and the achievements of the 72 EFL league clubs both on and off the pitch has been extraordinary. One of our regular pod pundits this season, Curtis Davies discusses all the key points with Mark Clemmit as the curtain comes down on the 2020/2021 season, and Newport County’s Kevin Ellison talks to Clem about the his own personal battles over the years, as we shine a light on Mental Health Awareness Week.

S3 Ep36: Congratulations to James Coppinger on a truly remarkable career!

The Content Works — Wed, 05 May 2021 21:14:45 +0000

This weekend 40 year old James Coppinger will hang up his boots after more than 20 years as a professional footballer, and call time on a glittering playing career that has seen him make more than 600 appearances for Doncaster Rovers! As he sits down with Mark Clemmit to reflect on his long life in the game and look forward to the final weekend, we couldn’t not remind him of his part in an extraordinary match at Griffin Park on the 27thApril 2013, that saw him score in the dying seconds to promote Doncaster Rovers as league one champions, in a game that will long live in the memory as one of the greatest of all time.

S3 Ep35: The mercury’s rising for Hull City’s George Honeyman, and it’s Strictly Duff Dancing as Cheltenham Town also secure automatic promotion.

The Content Works — Wed, 28 Apr 2021 21:11:01 +0000

Two men from two divisions with two very expressive forms of celebration. Hull City’s influential midfielder George Honeyman looked every inch the rockstar last weekend, as he celebrated his side’s promotion back to the Skybet Championship with a performance of ‘I Want To Break Free’ that even Freddie Mercury would’ve been proud of. Elsewhere Cheltenham Town boss Michael Duff, used the medium of dance to display his delight at his side’s automatic promotion to Skybet League One, and is already rumoured to be on the long list for this year’s Strictly. Mark Clemmit is also joined by the chair of ‘Kick It Out’ Sanjay Bhandari, to discuss this weekend’s mass boycott of social media, as the football world come together and stand united in the fight to tackle online racist abuse, and discrimination of all kind within the sport.

S3 Ep34: Dion Dublin salutes the canaries’ return to the top flight, and Owen Coyle assesses the sides under the hammer, as we enter the business end of the season in the EFL.

The Content Works — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 17:29:24 +0000

He started and ended his career at Carrow Road, and few people are better qualified to talk about Norwich City and their spectacular achievements this season, than premier league goalscoring legend, Dion Dublin. Owen Coyle, back from the Indian Super League on a sabbatical joins Clem to talk about all the news this week, and there’s been a lot for him to cast his expert eye over, and EFL Chair Rick Parry is here to discuss the welcome return of a controlled number of fans for Sunday’s Carabao Cup Final at Wembley.

S3 Ep33: The EFL Day of Action 2021 Special Episode

The Content Works — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 17:56:39 +0000

Wednesday the 14th April saw the EFL host its fifth annual day of action, an initiative that sees all 72 clubs in the Skybet Championship, League 1 and League 2, pull together to help those in their local community that need it the most. From stocking foodbanks, to creating social hubs to help tackle loneliness and depression, the scale of fundraising and good causes is breathtaking! On this special edition of the official EFL podcast, Mark Clemmit talks to those who have selflessly helped out in their local area, and those who have benefitted so much from what can be done, when the football communities within the EFL come together at this time every year.

S3 Ep32: Jonathan Woodgate’s Cherries Challenge, and will Phil Brown keep The Shrimpers afloat?

The Content Works — Wed, 14 Apr 2021 17:33:53 +0000

It’s what’s known as the business end of the season, and Mark Clemmit is joined this week by two men who hail from the North East, but are both plying their trade in the south at opposite ends of the EFL pyramid. Jonathan Woodgate is the manager of AFC Bournemouth until the end of the season and his side are on a fantastic run of form, eyeing a return to the top flight at the first attempt through the perilous playoffs. At the other end of the EFL spectrum, vastly experienced manager Phil Brown, has returned once again to one of his old clubs to see if he can keep them from being relegated from Skybet League Two and dropping out of the EFL completely. It’s a tough ask, but you wouldn’t bet against Brownie with 5 games to go!

S3 Ep31: Earnie, Evans and Adkins.

The Content Works — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 10:59:44 +0000

It’s the 3 wise men on this week’s official EFL Podcast. Well 4 I suppose if you count Clem, who’s joined by one of the EFL’s most formidable former marksmen Robbie Earnshaw, to cast his expert eye on all the week’s news in the Skybet Championship, League One and League Two. CEO of the EFL Trust Mike Evans is here to talk about next week’s annual EFL Day of Action, which sees football doing it’s bit for the local community, and Nigel Adkins pops by to inject some much needed positivity, as he reflects on his first month in charge at Charlton Athletic.

S3 Ep30: Rebecca Welch makes history as she’s appointed the first female referee in the English Football League!

The Content Works — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 10:35:24 +0000

History will be made on Easter Monday, as Rebecca Welch from Washington, Tyne and Wear becomes the first female referee to be appointed by the EFL. Her debut sees her taking charge of Port Vale’s visit to Harrogate Town in Skybet League 2, which she explains to Mark Clemmit will be a huge milestone in her already impressive career. Clem also links up with Peterborough manager Darren Ferguson live from his garden on a balmy spring evening, and Morecambe’s Derek Adams, who Clem’s promised to buy two packets of Tunnocks caramel wafers if the Shrimps are successful in their promotion push!

S3 Ep29: Ivan Toney. Breaking records with Brentford.

The Content Works — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 00:59:36 +0000

This week it’s all about the biggest star in the EFL, as Mark Clemmit sits down for a fascinating chat with Brentford’s goal scoring talisman Ivan Toney, as he takes a much needed breather in the international break. With the opportunity of a bit of time off, he’s able to reflect on an incredible season so far in the Sky Bet Championship, and look forward to the task ahead in his side’s big push for promotion to the promised land of the Premier League. Clem is also joined by his old mate Simon Grayson to catch up on League One life at Fleetwood Town, and to find out what the secret is to promotion from this tricky division, bearing in mind Grayson has managed it four times to date, with four different clubs!

S3 Ep28: Captain Curtis on all the week’s big news, and we contemplate a weekend away in Harrogate with the Weavers!

The Content Works — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 12:11:45 +0000

A busy week of managerial comings and goings in the EFL, and the heated battles at the top and bottom of all 3 divisions intensifies. The brilliant Curtis Davies joins Mark Clemmit to give his expert view on all of the above, and we enjoy a frank and honest assessment of life in league 2, with the longest serving manager in English football, Harrogate Town’s Simon Weaver. Clem also catches up with Rochdale fan Mark Cryer, who’s spearheading an amazing fundraising campaign to honour one of the club’s most loyal supporters and most generous of benefactors.

S3 Ep27: Robins’ Rockin’ at a return to the Ricoh, and we look ahead to the 2021 Papa John’s Trophy Final

The Content Works — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 22:07:27 +0000

At 16 years and 274 days James Vaughan smashed the record for the premier league’s youngest ever goalscorer, a title he still proudly holds to this day, and 16 years and 13 clubs later he should have been continuing his goalscoring habit at Wembley this Sunday, against one of his former employers Sunderland in the 2021 Papa John’s Trophy Final. However, a recurrence of a knee injury that has blighted his career sees him injured and unavailable for selection, but he still hopes to be fit enough to travel with his Tranmere team mates, for what promises to be a very special day out for Keith Hill’s Skybet League 2 high flyers. Elsewhere, Mark Clemmit catches up with Coventry City boss Mark Robins, who’s looking forward to the return of fans, a return to normality and a return to the Ricoh Stadium next season after their groundsharing sabbatical at St Andrews.

S3 Ep26: Appleton and Hendo. The city of Salford is the common link and they’re both clearly ‘Appy Chappies!’

The Content Works — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 10:33:00 +0000

Two brilliantly candid interviews this week which Mark Clemmit does so well. First up, Lincoln City’s Michael Appleton on the learning journey at Sincil Bank and his side’s continuing push for promotion. Then a man who’s scoring goals for fun, a stone’s throw away from where Appleton grew up. Last summer, Ian Henderson made the short move from Rochdale where he’d become a club legend, to aspirational Salford City to take part in their footballing journey. It seems to be an inspired move so far, and he’s even managed to blag a trip to Wembley out of it, for next weekend’s rearranged 2020 Papa John’s Trophy Final!

S3 Ep25: Mighty Millers, Tricky Trotters and a seemingly ageless Cameron Jerome!

The Content Works — Wed, 24 Feb 2021 23:08:34 +0000

At the risk of overdelivering, this week Mark Clemmit gives you not one, not two, but 3 cracking interviews, to prove once again that this is the best EFL Podcast by a country mile!

Rotherham manager Paul Warne, gives us a brilliantly candid insight into the 24/7 pressure of football management, 34 year old Cameron Jerome is still scoring week in, week out for old mate Russell Martin’s MK Dons, and Bolton’s Eoin Doyle gives some of the best, funniest and honest answers ever heard in a football interview! It can only be the official EFL Podcast!

S3 Ep24: PNE, LGBT and OUFC!

The Content Works — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 21:31:02 +0000

It’s a busy one this week as Mark Clemmit welcomes Preston North End’s veteran midfielder Paul Gallagher in for a brew and a blather. England’s only openly gay professional match official Ryan Atkin, talks about the challenge ahead to try and eradicate discrimination of any type from our national game, as we celebrate LGBT+ History Month, and last but not least it’s Oxford United’s charismatic gaffer Karl Robinson. Robbo and Clem chat about everything from mental health and hair loss, to medieval costumes and specialist leather wear! I suspect this is the only podcast in the world that can cover this much ground on a weekly basis!

S3 Ep23: Show and Artell

The Content Works — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 21:55:25 +0000

Watford’s Ben Foster is an effervescent burst of energy, as he tells Mark Clemmit all about his YouTube show which has now amassed more than 400,000 followers in just a few months. Clem also sits down with Crewe Alexandra manager David Artell. The forensic scientist is known for his passionate displays on the touchline, but one on one in the studio he’s a very calm, considered and fascinating man, and it’s another brilliant interview on the official EFL podcast.

S3 Ep22: Murray, Mullin and Moore’s the merrier on the official EFL podcast.

The Content Works — Wed, 03 Feb 2021 21:45:37 +0000

Another big episode this week, as Mark Clemmit delivers 3 big hitters for your podcasting pleasure. At 37 years old and having endured a frustrating time on loan at Watford recently, Glenn Murray made a transfer deadline day switch to Nottingham Forest to link up with his old Brighton boss Chris Hughton, and is relishing another new challenge in a hugely impressive career. Skybet League Two’s top scorer is Paul Mullin, who’s loving his football at Cambridge United and has nothing short of promotion in his sights, and Doncaster Rovers boss Darren Moore reflects on his side’s superb form of late, and how he’s getting the very best out of his players week in week out.

S3 Ep21: It’s all about the Benjamins!

The Content Works — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 22:06:10 +0000

Yes it’s a ‘Ben’ special this week, as we give you two of the finest from either end of the EFL spectrum, in the form of Gibson of Norwich City and Tozer of Cheltenham Town. What they both have on common other than their first names, is a sheer determination and strength of character to push through the tough times and emerge on the other side, in a much better place both mentally and physically. Ben Gibson is currently flying high with Norwich City after a difficult couple of years frozen out at Burnley, and Ben Tozer suffered with anxiety and depression before getting his mojo back and captaining his Cheltenham Town side to a near giant killing performance last weekend, that saw the robins a mere 10 minutes away from knocking Manchester City out of the cup, with a clearly ruffled Pep Guardiola pacing up and down on the touchline!

S3 Ep20: The Hugs Don’t Work!

The Content Works — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 11:08:37 +0000

Mark Clemmit is blessed with an all-star list of guests to discuss the big stories in the EFL this week. Blackburn manager Tony Mowbray reflects on nearly 4 years in charge at Ewood Park, Ipswich Town’s Stephen Ward has a no nonsense approach to goal celebrations and the no hugs protocol, and Nigel Clough explains Mansfield Town’s impressive form and the importance of having his dog ‘Bobbie’ as part of his backroom staff!

S3 Ep19: Tears of joy for Crawley’s Nick Tsaroulla, Reading’s Michael Morrison on their rollercoaster season, and a first interview for the EFL’s new chief executive Trevor Birch.

The Content Works — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 17:25:36 +0000

It’s a packed show this week, as Mark Clemmit catches up with Reading’s Michael Morrison on what has been a topsy turvy season so far. New EFL chief executive Trevor Birch talks about the rigorous measures being employed by all 72 EFL clubs to try and stop the spread of covid 19 and in happier news, what a week for Crawley Town’s Nick Tsaroulla! A near-fatal car accident in 2017 turned his life upside down and made it unlikely he’d ever play football again. However, he fought through the pain to prove the doubters wrong and got his rewards last weekend, scoring the first of Crawley’s 3 goals against premier league giants Leeds United, to set up one of the greatest cup upsets in the competition’s history!

S3 Ep18: Highs and Lowe

The Content Works — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 10:07:41 +0000

First one of the new year and Mark Clemmit sits down to enjoy the company of Swansea City’s in form striker Jamal Lowe, who’s story is an inspirational one. He was working as a PE teacher and playing non league football only a few years ago, but had unfinished business with the professional game and wanted to give it a shot. His decision has certainly paid off as he’s scoring for fun for the high flying swans and justifying the self belief he always had. Clem is also joined by his old mate David Prutton from Sky Sports, to cast his expert eye on all this week’s comings and goings in the EFL, and there’s been no shortage of stories to kick off the new year.

S3 Ep17: The best of the guests so far this season.

The Content Works — Mon, 28 Dec 2020 13:46:47 +0000

As we look ahead to a new year that we hope will be a little less challenging, Mark Clemmit takes a chance to listen back to some of the best interviews from the past 4 months as we approach the half way point in the season. We’re talking about the likes of Neil Warnock, Harry Kewell, Mark Crossley, Luther Blissett, Gareth Ainsworth and Chris Kamara to name just some of the highlights of the year 2020 on the official EFL podcast. So, sit back and enjoy 48 minutes of potentially award winning content, as we say a huge thanks for your support this season and wish you and yours a very happy and healthy new year.

S3 Ep16: Christmas with The Cowleys!

The Content Works — Wed, 23 Dec 2020 20:40:06 +0000

There’s not many people who are more fanatical and knowledgeable about all 3 divisions of the EFL, than former Lincoln City and Huddersfield Town management team Danny and Nicky Cowley. Throw Clem into the mix to direct proceedings and you’ve got your 3 wise men, giving their expert opinion on this week’s latest news, the Boxing day fixture list and what they’re each hoping Father Christmas will bring them!

S3 Ep15: ‘Team Talk’ - The EFL’s new initiative to tackle men’s mental health

The Content Works — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 15:26:59 +0000

Launched today and in conjunction with the EFL’s charity partner MIND, ‘Team Talk’ aims to tackle the negative effects that isolation and loneliness are having on our mental health during lockdown, and one man who knows all about that is Aston Villa legend Lee Hendrie who talks exclusively about his own personal struggles. Michael O’Neill sits down with Clem to talk about the restructuring and progress he’s made at Stoke in the last 12 months, and Leyton Orient’s Jobi McAnuff is here to give us his expert opinion on all this week’s major talking points, and look ahead to this weekend’s key fixtures.

S3 Ep14: Oh Come All Ye Faithful…Kammy’s got a new album out!

The Content Works — Wed, 09 Dec 2020 22:38:36 +0000

Tis the season to be jolly careful, but not when it comes to music because Kammy’s got a new Christmas album out, and he’s here to give his Boro buddy Mark Clemmit a sneak preview! In fact, vocal talent and festive crackers set the theme for this week’s episode, as the official EFL podcast welcomes not just one, but two great singers into its sound proofed grotto, as Clem is also joined by a well-known and long serving manager of Accrington Stanley. For those who now think it’s funny say “Who are they?” the answer is quite obviously… Chris Kamara and John Coleman.

S3 Ep13: The welcome return of fans to football after nearly 8 months of empty terraces.

The Content Works — Thu, 03 Dec 2020 15:51:08 +0000

It was March the 13th when professional football was suspended amid the beginning of the Covid pandemic across the UK. The football leagues all resumed in September with games played behind closed doors, until this week when clubs on Wednesday night were allowed the return of reduced capacity crowds, provided the club’s geographical tier restrictions permitted it. Carlisle United saw 2000 fans return to Brunton Park for their midweek game against Salford, and Carlisle’s chairman Nigel Clibbens talks exclusively to Mark Clemmit about the return of supporters through the turnstiles at long last, as the seeds of football’s long term recovery are sewn.

Sky bet League One’s top scorer is John Marquis of Portsmouth, who’s on fire at the moment and describes how and why things are going so well for him at Fratton Park, and former Bristol City manager Lee Johnson joins Clem to preview the weekend’s games, and discuss all of this week’s key talking points in the EFL.

S3 Ep12: Three hotshots and a wedding!

The Content Works — Thu, 26 Nov 2020 07:00:00 +0000

Barnsley’s in form striker Cauley Woodrow joins Clem to talk about life at Oakwell under Valerien Ismael, and how different bosses in the last couple of years have harvested different things from his natural talent. Scoring and scoring well is something Dean Ashton knows all about, and the former Crewe, Norwich, West Ham and England hitman casts his expert eye over all of this weekend’s forthcoming fixtures and the events of the past week across the EFL. Then there comes the story of Exeter City’s Jake Taylor! In the space of a week, Jake scored for his side on the Tuesday, got married on the Wednesday, had is honeymoon on the Thursday, trained Friday and then scored again on the Saturday, giving a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘marriage goals!’ It’s a bumper collection of strikes this week with Mark Clemmit on ‘The Official EFL Podcast!’

S3 Ep11: Jason Tindall on his first 3 months in charge at Bournemouth and Curtis Davies opens up about a difficult week at Derby!

The Content Works — Thu, 19 Nov 2020 09:45:00 +0000

On the 8th August, Bournemouth’s assistant manager Jason Tindall was appointed as full time successor to Eddie Howe, and so began life in the hotseat as the man charged with the responsibility of returning the cherries to the top flight at the first attempt. He talks candidly with Clem about the progress so far, and how he’s adapting to being the man in sole charge of a club with great expectations. At the other end of the championship, Derby County sit rooted to the foot of the table without a win in their last 5 attempts, which resulted unsurprisingly in the club parting company with under pressure boss Phillip Cocu last weekend. Club captain Curtis Davies talks honestly and openly about the mood inside the dressing room in what has been a very difficult week for all involved.

S3 Ep10: It’s homecoming time for Uncle Albert, and Clem’s joined by his favourite pundit so far this season!

The Content Works — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 21:00:00 +0000

He’s had to wait until the twilight years of an impressive career, but last month saw former Middlesbrough, Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest winger Albert Adomah, finally secure his dream move back to West London to sign for his beloved QPR! With Mark Warburton at the helm and a decent squad at Loftus Road, ‘Uncle Albert’ doesn’t see any reason why they can’t finish in the top 6, and with him as an option off the bench in the blue and white hoops, you wouldn’t bet against them. Elsewhere Clem has finally managed to get his favourite football pundit Sue Smith on the show, and with the breathing space of the international break, the two of them give their expert insight into all the big stories in the EFL so far this season, and preview this weekend’s fixtures.

S3 Ep9: The week that rocked Gareth Ainsworth’s world and Plymouth Argyle are storming it for Bastille!

The Content Works — Thu, 05 Nov 2020 17:00:00 +0000

If Wycombe’s rock n roll gaffer Gareth Ainsworth ever writes his autobiography, he’ll easily get a chapter out of this last week alone! A prolapsed vertebrae saw him rushed to hospital in agony last Friday, while his absence from the dugout saw his wanderers record back to back wins for the first time this season, as Gareth had to watch on his iPhone from a recovery ward at the Royal Berkshire hospital! The rock n roll theme continues as Bastille drummer Chris Wood talks about watching live streams of his beloved Plymouth Argyle, while thousands of miles away on tour with the band, and one of the EFL’s most potent strikers in recent times, Robbie Earnshaw joins Clem to preview all this weekend’s biggest fixtures.

S3 Ep8: Luther Blissett talks about his tough journey to the top, as we celebrate black history month and continue that all important conversation.

The Content Works — Wed, 28 Oct 2020 23:00:00 +0000

He scored a hat trick on his full England debut at Wembley, played more than 500 games for Watford FC and is the club’s all-time greatest goal scorer, but that didn’t stop Luther Blissett regularly receiving racial abuse from the terraces as a young player in the seventies and eighties. As we celebrate black history month, Luther opens up to Mark Clemmit about how bad things were, and why it’s so important to continue the conversation about racism in football now and in the future. Wimbledon director Ivor Heller has forfeited everything for his beloved club and looks forward to next week’s triumphant return to Plough Lane, and Leyton Orient skipper Jobi McAnuff joins Clem to preview the key fixtures this weekend across all 3 divisions of the EFL.

S3 Ep7: Millwall, Mental Health and The Main Debate Surrounding The Return of Fans To Football.

The Content Works — Thu, 22 Oct 2020 06:00:00 +0000

This week on the podcast Mark Clemmit talks to Millwall FC’s head coach Gary Rowett on life at The New Den and The Lions’ impressive form so far this season. Former Nottingham Forest legend Mark Crossley opens up about his struggles with mental health this year, and how step by step he’s gaining strength and raising awareness to help others, and Shrewsbury Town supporters liaison officer Roger Groves describes the crippling effect that empty stands are having on clubs like his, and how despite staging successful Covid compliant test events last month, there’s still no light at the end of the tunnel.

S3 Ep6: The Future of English Football: EFL Chairman Rick Parry addresses the huge news this week regarding ‘Project Big Picture'.

The Content Works — Wed, 14 Oct 2020 16:00:00 +0000

‘Project Big Picture’ could change the structure of English Football forever if it gets the backing it seeks, and EFL Chairman Rick Parry addresses the proposal in a frank and honest interview with Mark Clemmit, while discussions between the EFL and The Premier League continue. In addition Luton Town’s head coach Nathan Jones assesses ‘The Hatters’ flying start to the season upon his return to the club after a short spell at Stoke, and Derby County’s veteran defender Curtis Davies joins Clem to discuss this week’s big stories, and preview the forthcoming fixtures across all 3 divisions in the EFL.

S3 Ep5: 200,000 league games completed and Chris Hughton takes over the Nottingham Forest hotseat.

The Content Works — Wed, 07 Oct 2020 21:00:00 +0000

On the show this week, Mark Clemmit is joined by Newport County’s charismatic homegrown head coach Mike Flynn, to talk about the impressive recent form of his South Wales’ Skybet League Two table toppers. Bill Edgar from The Times celebrates the English football league clocking up 200,000 professional games in its 132 year history, and Phil Brown joins Clem to look at the forthcoming weekend’s fixtures, and discusses this week’s early season managerial changes at Nottingham Forest and Barnsley.

S3 Ep4: It’s ready steady go for Teddy Sharman-Lowe, as he starts his new chapter at Chelsea

The Content Works — Wed, 30 Sep 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Released by Leicester City as a schoolboy, goalkeeper Teddy Sharman-Lowe thought his football dream was over until he was picked up by Burton Albion’s youth academy and given another chance to hone his craft. It certainly worked because this summer aged just 17, he signed a professional contract with Frank Lampard’s Chelsea! Clem caught up with Teddy and Burton’s Academy Manager Dan Robinson, to find out how it all panned out. Also on the show this week, Hull City manager Grant McCann gives a brutally honest assessment of his side’s collapse and relegation last season, and praises their flying start to this campaign, and BBC and Sky Sports EFL expert Caroline Barker, picks out her selection of the weekend’s most interesting clashes across all 3 divisions.

S3 Ep3: Aitor Karanka and his Peaky Blinders!

The Content Works — Thu, 24 Sep 2020 10:00:00 +0000

Clem is joined this week by Birmingham City’s new head coach Aitor Karanka, and Nigel Adkins provides his pick of the weekend’s previews and throws in some motivational life advice as well! Make sure you hit the subscribe button so you don't miss any of action from the EFL.

S3 Ep2: We're Off And Running!

The Content Works — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Joining Mark Clemmit this week, Oldham Athletic’s new head coach, Harry Kewell explains the challenges ahead at Boundary Park, we find out what links David Tennant, Dame Judi Dench and Coventry City FC, and Quest’s Paul Walker is here to cast an expert eye over this weekend’s fixtures.

S3 Ep1: The EFL 2020/21 Season Preview

The Content Works — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 14:00:00 +0000

Mark Clemmit hosts a brand new series of The Official EFL Podcast. Joining Mark this week is Neil Warnock to talk about the job in front of him at Middlesbrough, Swindon Town’s owner and chairman Lee Power describes the highs and lows of promotion to League One, coupled with the club’s financial struggles over the last 6 months, and Sky Sports EFL expert David Prutton helps Clem preview the 2020/2021 season across all 3 divisions.

S2 Ep23: Fulham are promoted and Harrogate join the EFL

The Content Works — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 13:00:00 +0000

It's another packed show this week as we bid farewell to the longest EFL season of all time. In this episode we hear from Fulham legend Bobby Zamora who gives his thoughts on his former club's excellent performance in the playoff final, and assesses their chances in the Premier League. Also taking a look back at Fulham's win is our man Jobi McAnuff who squeezes in a chat with Ben between a double header of training sessions with Leyton Orient.

Finally we welcome Harrogate to the EFL after their National League Play-Off Final win over Notts County. Ben chats to manager Simon Weaver and club captain Josh Falkingham.

S2 Ep22: Playoff Final Preview

The Content Works — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 15:00:00 +0000

As the most dramatic Championship season in memory comes to a close Ben is joined by a stellar line up to look ahead to the playoff final between Brentford and Fulham.

Joining Ben on the pod are legends from both clubs in the form of Louis Saha and Lloyd Owusu.

One of the main reasons for Brentford's success has been the goals scored by Ollie Watkins, but he wasn't always such a confident striker. Ben hears from his former boss at Exeter City, Paul Tisdale, who tells Ben how a simple bit of advice helped turn him from a struggler in their second team, into the Championship's top scorer.

And finally, to preview the playoff final itself is Jobi McAnuff, who also talks about the new man on the training ground at Leyton Orient, one Yaya Toure.

S2 Ep22: The Most Dramatic End To A Championship Season Ever

The Content Works — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 18:00:00 +0000

Caught your breath yet? That was the most incredible final round of Championship matches there has ever been. Joining Ben to attempt to make sense of it all is Jobi McAnuff. It doesn't stop there, as Ben and Jobi also look ahead to the playoff semi-finals which are only a matter of days away.

Leeds United were unaffected by the drama at both ends of the table and confirmed their status as champions with a 4-0 thumping of Charlton, who are relegated to League Two. Joining Ben to look back at their season, and assess their chances of staying in the Premier League, is the last man to lead them to a promotion, Simon Grayson.

S2 Ep21: Wycombe are promoted to The Championship.

The Content Works — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 14:00:00 +0000

Wycombe Wanderers have reached the Championship for the first time in their history. In this episode we look back on their big day out at Wembley and hear from chairman Rob Couhig and one of their most famous fans, Bill Turnbull.

Both of those men will have a close eye on the Championship over the next few weeks to find out who they are going to be playing next season. Casting his eye over the penultimate round of games in the division is Jobi McAnuff.

S2 Ep20: The L1 Play-Off Final and Dunn on taking over at Barrow

The Content Works — Thu, 09 Jul 2020 15:00:00 +0000

It’s another packed podcast this week as Simon Grayson looks back on the two League One Playoff Semi-Final Second Legs, and assesses what chance Oxford Utd and Wycombe Wanderers have of making it to the Championship.

With relegation, the playoff spots, and automatic promotion still to be decided in the Championship, there is another round of fascinating games with huge stakes this weekend. Joining Ben Turner to preview the Championships big games is Jobi McAnuff.

On top of that there’s an interview with former Blackburn Rovers and England midfielder, David Dunn. Dunn’s just taken over the reigns at League Two new boys Barrow AFC.

S2 Ep19: Sky Bet League One Play-Off Previews

The Content Works — Thu, 02 Jul 2020 16:00:00 +0000

In an absolutely packed episode we hear from all four managers involved in the League One playoffs, and we take a look back at Northampton Town's 4-0 victory over Exeter City at Wembley in the League Two playoff final.

Joining Ben to look ahead to those League One playoff semi-finals are two managers with 5 League One promotions between them, Simon Grayson and Paul Heckingbottom.

Finally Ben is joined by Jobi McAnuff to look at the big games coming up this weekend in the Championship, including that East Midlands derby between Derby County and Nottingham Forest.

S2 Ep18: Neil Warnock Returns.

The Content Works — Wed, 24 Jun 2020 15:00:00 +0000

It’s a packed podcast this week as Jobi McAnuff looks back at those two dramatic second legs in the League Two playoff semi finals. He also looks ahead to the final and gives his opinion on which team will be securing promotion to League One.

There’s also chat about the Championship’s newest, and oldest manager, one Neil Warnock, who has taken over at Middlesborough, his 18th management job.

Finally, joining Ben to look at the big fixtures in the Championship this weekend is former Barnsley and Leeds manager, Paul Heckingbottom.

S2 Ep17: The EFL is back!

The Content Works — Tue, 16 Jun 2020 14:00:00 +0000

After 3 months away the EFL finally returns, and what a way to return as the resumed season kicks off with Colchester United Vs Exeter City, and Northampton Town Vs Cheltenham Town in the League Two playoff semi-finals.

Jobi McAnuff joins host Ben Turner to take a look at these two massive fixtures as well as the big games coming up in the Championship. We also hear from Nathan Jones as he returns as manager of Luton Town.

S2 Ep16: Robert Earnshaw: Part 3 - playing in Israel and North America, Coaching, and my proudest football moment.

The Content Works — Thu, 30 Apr 2020 15:00:00 +0000

In the third and final part of our fascinating chat with Robert Earnshaw, we hear about his time playing in Israel, and how he coped during rocket attacks.

We also hear about his adventures in Major League Soccer, his work as a coach, and his proudest moment as a player.

S2 Ep16: Robert Earnshaw Part 2: Leaving Cardiff, Playing in the Premier League, and my time at Forest.

The Content Works — Thu, 23 Apr 2020 18:00:00 +0000

In part 2 of our interview with Robert Earnshaw, he talks about leaving Cardiff City, playing for Norwich, his time with Derby County during that ill-fated Premier League season, and making the move to Nottingham Forest where he was loved by the fans.

S2 Ep15: Robert Earnshaw: Growing up in Zambia, my football heroes, and the best players I've shared a pitch with.

The Content Works — Fri, 17 Apr 2020 18:00:00 +0000

This episode is the first part of Ben Turner's fascinating conversation with former Cardiff City, West Bromwich Albion, Nottingham Forest, and Wales striker, Robert Earnshaw.

Earnshaw is known as the answer to the pub quiz question about the only player to have scored hat-tricks in every division of the EFL, the Premier League and at International level.

In this episode he talks about growing up in Zambia, the death of his father, moving to Wales with his mother, his footballing heroes, his early days at Cardiff City, and the best players he's shared a pitch with.

S2 Ep14: CJ Hamilton volunteering for the NHS

The Content Works — Thu, 09 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Mansfield Town winger CJ Hamilton talks to Ben Turner about how he, and his teammates, are staying fit and connected during the lockdown, and what motivated him to sign up as an NHS volunteer.

For more information on volunteering with the NHS, and to find out how you can help support them as they fight the Coronavirus, then visit
https://www.england.nhs.uk/participation/get-involved/volunteering/

S2 Ep13: Simon Grayson: Having white wine with Sir Alex, promotion and that documentary

The Content Works — Mon, 06 Apr 2020 11:00:00 +0000

In the second part of his extended interview, Simon Grayson opens up on the stories behind that FA Cup win with League One Leeds United at Old Trafford, three more promotions and how he was portrayed in the Sunderland 'Til I die documentary.

S2 Ep12: Simon Grayson part one

The Content Works — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 15:00:00 +0000

The first of a two part special with former Blackpool, Leeds United, Huddersfield Town, Preston North End, Sunderland and Bradford City Manager Simon Grayson.

Grayson speaks about his time growing up as a Leeds United supporter before going on to represent the club as a player.

He also reveals who had the biggest influence on his managerial career how he got in to management with Blackpool and how he re-joined his boyhood team.

Paul Tisdale: “There wasn’t much thinking going on, it was a bizarre week.”

The Content Works — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 10:00:00 +0000

In Part 2 of our interview with Paul Tisdale, he talks about his time at Exeter City, where he was the longest serving manager in the EFL, and why he left them for the MK Dons. As Paul puts it “there wasn’t much thinking going on, it was a bizarre week.”

He also talks about what he considers his greatest achievement and what's next in terms of his career.

If you enjoyed this then listen to Part 1 which we released last week.

The Championship Title Race Is On.

The Content Works — Thu, 12 Mar 2020 16:00:00 +0000

In this week's preview show Ben Turner and Jobi McAnuff look ahead to two big games at the top of the championship, starting with Friday night's fixture where Fulham could close the gap on the top two. Their opponents Brentford, however, will have eyes on closing the gap between them and their hosts to just one point. Meanwhile there's a fascinating West Midlands derby in store as West Brom take on Birmingham City. With it being the day's early kick off, West Brom could put themselves back on top of the table, at least until Sunday afternoon. At the bottom of the table there's a real relegation six pointer between Hull and Charlton.

To preview the action in League's One and Two, Ben is joined by Joe Thompson for a look ahead to in form Oxford's game against MK Dons, and Swindon's visit to Oldham.

There's also an interview with the EFL's young player of the month Harry Souttar.

Paul Tisdale: My playing days, my style and my philosophy.

The Content Works — Mon, 09 Mar 2020 17:00:00 +0000

In part 1 of this in-depth interview, Ben Turner meets former Team Bath, Exeter City and MK Dons manager Paul Tisdale, who has been dubbed the most stylish man in football.

Paul talks about his days as a player, the beginning of his management career at Team Bath, his philosophy, and why being stylish on the touchline is so important to him.

S2 Ep8: Big match previews, Man City's Carabao Cup Final Hero, and a little bit of Noel Gallagher.

The Content Works — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Ben Turner returns with the EFL Preview show where he's joined by Jobi McAnuff and Joe Thompson. As well as looking ahead to the big games across The Championship and Leagues 1 and 2, Ben also reports back from the Carabao Cup Final where we hear from Manchester City goalscorer Rodri, and perhaps their most famous fan Noel Gallagher.

Martin Tyler, Raheem Sterling, Trezeguet and more preview the Carabao Cup Final.

The Content Works — Thu, 27 Feb 2020 11:00:00 +0000

This week we look ahead to The Carabao Cup Final between Aston Villa and Manchester City.

Joining Ben to preview the game is one of football's most iconic voices, Martin Tyler who will of course be commentating on the match.

Ben also spoke to several players hoping to be involved in the final, City duo Raheem Sterling and Riyad Mahrez, and Aston Villa's Trezeguet and Frédéric Guilbert.

As well as all that, Ben speaks with a fan of each team who will be sat with each other at Sunday's final.

S2 Ep6: The Championship relegation battle is on.

The Content Works — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 17:00:00 +0000

Former Leeds United and Barnsley manager Paul Heckingbottom, joins Ben Turner to look at the big games in the Championship this weekend, where the relegation battle is starting to heat up. Luton could make it three wins on the bounce and Barnsley are coming off the back of their surprise thrashing of Fulham, but does either team have enough in them to save their Sky Bet Championship status?

Ben and Paul preview Barnsley vs Middlesbrough, Charlton vs Luton, and Brentford vs Blackburn.

For a peak into Sky Bet Leagues One and Two, Ben is joined by former Rochdale and Tranmere star, Joe Thompson, to preview Fleetwood vs Portsmouth and Swindon vs Grimsby.

And of course there will be a look back at what were two very dramatic nights in the Leasing.com Trophy, as Portsmouth and Salford both booked a date at Wembley.

Not crunch time in the EFL but certainly crunchier

The Content Works — Thu, 13 Feb 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Ben Turner is joined by former Luton Town and Stoke City boss Nathan Jones, as well as Leyton Orient's Jobi McAnuff to look back on some midweek missed opportunities in the Championship. The team also preview 3 of the weekend's biggest fixtures, West Brom Vs Nottingham Forest, Leeds Vs Bristol City, and Preston Vs Millwall.

Former Rochdale midfielder, Joe Thompson tackles the big games in League's One and Two, previewing the clashes between Wycombe and Bolton, and Plymouth and Crewe.

Third time lucky for Stuart McCall?

The Content Works — Wed, 05 Feb 2020 17:00:00 +0000

In the latest edition of the Official EFL Podcast, Ben Turner looks ahead to the weekend's EFL fixtures with cancer survivor, former Rochdale midfielder, and Sir Tom Finney award winner, Joe Thompson.

In the Championship there's a huge clash in the race for promotion, as Nottingham Forest host Leeds United.

Can Wigan keep up their mini revival as they host local rivals Preston North End?

And can Bristol City put pressure on the teams chasing promotion, by getting a win on Friday night against Birmingham City?

In League One there's another clash of the big fish as Sunderland host Ipswich Town.

And in League Two, Bradford will be hoping that the third time's a charm as Stuart McCall takes charge for their match against Ian Holloway's Grimsby.

Can the championship's top two hang on?

The Content Works — Thu, 30 Jan 2020 17:00:00 +0000

In the latest edition of the Official EFL Podcast, Ben Turner looks ahead to the weekend's EFL fixtures with former Stoke City and Luton Town manager, Nathan Jones, and Colchester United Player Coach Jamal Campbell Ryce.

In the Championship there are two big top versus bottom affairs, Leeds United Vs Wigan Athletic and West Bromwich Albion Vs Luton Town. Can the top two can hang on to the automatic promotion places? and are Luton and Wigan capable of beating the drop? Also in focus are Nathan Jones' former club Stoke City, who travel to Derby County on Friday night.

In League One there's a clash of the big fish as Portsmouth host Sunderland.

And in League Two the team take a look at promotion hopefuls Plymouth Argyle's tricky tie against Newport County.

S2 Ep4: Nathan Ellington: The Premier League, the misunderstanding of my faith, and the managers that never fancied me

The Content Works — Fri, 24 Jan 2020 05:00:00 +0000

In part two of this two part interview with Nathan "The Duke" Ellington, he opens up about the struggles in the later part of his career, the time he spent at West Brom in the Premier League, his conversion to Islam and the managers who misunderstood his faith, as well as the managers who he feels never gave him a fair chance.

S2 Ep3: Nathan Ellington: My early days and reaching the Premier League

The Content Works — Fri, 17 Jan 2020 15:00:00 +0000

In part 1 of an in depth interview with the man known as "The Duke", Nathan Ellington tells Ben Turner about his rise through the EFL, lining up against Fabrizio Ravanelli, and his prolific spell with Wigan Athletic.

S2 Ep2: Nathan Jones: Stoke City and the next step in my career

The Content Works — Fri, 10 Jan 2020 13:00:00 +0000

In the second part of a special edition of the Official EFL Podcast, Ben Turner chats to former Luton Town and Stoke City manager Nathan Jones.

Jones talks about his time at Stoke City, what he learned from the experience, and the next step in his career.

S2 Ep1: Nathan Jones: My playing days and how I became a manager

The Content Works — Fri, 03 Jan 2020 15:00:00 +0000

In the first of a two part special of the Official EFL Podcast, Ben Turner goes to meet former Luton Town and Stoke City manager Nathan Jones.

Jones talks about his love of coaching as well as his fascinating player career, which saw him play in three different countries.

S1 Ep48: The Xmas preview!

The Content Works — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 17:00:00 +0000

Ben Turner is joined by Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff, former Birmingham and Cardiff centre back Roger Johnson and Colchester United Player Coach Jamal Campbell Ryce

The fixtures we preview in this week's episode are:

Middlesbrough v Stoke City

Cardiff City v Preston North End

Fulham v Leeds United

Oxford United v Wycombe Wanderers

Forest Green Rovers v Swindon Town.

S1 Ep47: Leeds back on top - is it now a two horse race?

The Content Works — Thu, 12 Dec 2019 17:00:00 +0000

Ben Turner is joined by Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff to preview this weekend's EFL fixtures.

The fixtures we preview in this week's episode are:

Birmingham City v West Brom

Leeds United v Cardiff City

Brentford v Fulham

Sunderland v Blackpool

Swindon Town v Oldham Athletic

S1 Ep46: Colchester's Carabao Cup journey!

The Content Works — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 11:00:00 +0000

In a special edition of the #OfficialEFLPodcast, we visit Colchester United ahead of their match with the mighty Manchester United

Listen to the end to find out how to win tickets to the Carabao Cup Quarter-Finals!

S1 Ep45: Are West Brom and Leeds the teams to beat?

The Content Works — Thu, 28 Nov 2019 19:00:00 +0000

In the latest edition of the Official EFL Podcast, Ben Turner looks ahead to the weekend's EFL fixtures with Sky Sports Don Goodman, Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff and former Birmingham City and Cardiff City defender Roger Johnson.

The trio also react to the results in midweek, including Wycombe Wanderers v Ipswich Town.

Swansea City v Fulham: Are Fulham beginning to click? How important is it that Swansea start winning at the Liberty Stadium?

Leeds United v Middlesbrough: Should Gareth Southgate be looking at Ben White? Can Middlesbrough manager Jonathan Woodgate cause an upset at his former stomping ground?

Preston North End v West Bromwich Albion: Can Preston cope with their current injury crisis? How important is it that Grady Diangana stays with Slaven Bilic's side?

S1 Ep44: More new managers and the preview!

The Content Works — Thu, 21 Nov 2019 14:00:00 +0000

Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff and Colchester United player/coach Jamal Campbell-Ryce join Ben Turner to preview selected games in the EFL this weekend.

The pair also have their say on Cardiff City and Barnsley's new managers.

Fulham v Queens Park Rangers: Fulham only one goal in their last three matches – do you think teams have maybe started to work them out?

Bristol City v Nottingham Forest: Another huge game in the hunt for promotion as Forest travel to Bristol City, when you’re taking on a promotion rival, doe the mindset have to be that you can’t lose?

Middlesbrough v Hull City: No win in nine matches for Middlesbrough, a must win for Jonathan Woodgate?

Sunderland v Coventry City: Could an FA Cup exit help Sunderland's league form?

Plymouth Argyle v Bradford City: Two of Sky Bet League Two's big hitters but who is best equipped to gain promotion?

S1 Ep43: The Championship review so far and League One and Two fixtures!

The Content Works — Wed, 13 Nov 2019 21:00:00 +0000

In the latest edition of the Official EFL Podcast, Ben Turner looks ahead to the weekend's EFL fixtures with Sky Sports David Prutton, former Birmingham City and Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Roger Johnson and Colchester United player/coach Jamal Campbell Ryce.

With it being the international break, the trio also discuss the biggest talking points in the Sky Bet Championship so far.

S1 Ep42: The Sky Bet Championship takes centre stage!

The Content Works — Thu, 07 Nov 2019 18:00:00 +0000

In the latest edition of the Official EFL Podcast, Ben Turner looks ahead to the weekend's EFL fixtures with Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff, former Birmingham City and Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Roger Johnson and Colchester United player/coach Jamal Campbell-Ryce.

Nottingham Forest v Derby County: Who will come out on top in one of the biggest rivalries in the Sky Bet Championship calendar?

Sheffield Wednesday v Swansea City: Will the Swans continue their unbeaten away run against their former manager Garry Monk?

Cardiff City v Bristol City: Can Cardiff keep in touch and are Bristol City the real deal?

S1 Ep41: Reaction to Carabao Cup draw and the Don Goodman derby!

The Content Works — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 13:00:00 +0000

In the latest edition of the Official EFL Podcast, Ben Turner looks ahead to the weekend's EFL fixtures with Sky Sports David Prutton and Don Goodman, and former Birmingham City and Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Roger Johnson.

The trio also look forward to the Carabao Cup Quarter-Finals - how will Colchester United and Oxford United fair against the might of Manchester United and Manchester City? How Liverpool have given so many opportunities to young players so far in the competition and how big a chance is it for Everton and Leicester City to win a trophy?

Barnsley v Bristol City: Will the Sky Bet Championship's bottom side cause an upset against Lee Johnson's men?

Charlton Athletic v Preston North End: Who will come out on top in the battle between two of the league's surprise packages so far?

Stoke City v West Brom: This was recorded before Nathan Jones' departure, but do Slaven Bilic's league leaders need to stop conceding goals to win the title?

Blackpool v Peterborough United: Is there a better attacking trio in Sky Bet League One than Posh's Mo Eisa, Ivan Toney and Marcus Maddison?

Bradford City v Exeter City: Who will come out on top in the Don Goodman derby?!

S1 Ep40: A huge Yorkshire derby and what's the fiercest derby in football?

The Content Works — Thu, 24 Oct 2019 17:00:00 +0000

In the latest edition of the Official EFL Podcast, Ben Turner looks ahead to the weekend's EFL fixtures with Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff and Tranmere Rovers midfielder Neil Danns.

Sheffield Wednesday v Leeds United: Garry Monk facing his former club and one of their biggest rivals - the winner could go top of the league!

Millwall v Stoke City: New Lions manager Gary Rowett goes head-to-head with his former side at the Den.

Swansea City v Cardiff City: The first South Wales Derby in five years - it should be an incredible atmosphere at the Liberty Stadium!

Southend United v Ipswich Town: Sol Campbell's first game in charge at Roots Hall couldn't be much tougher as his Shrimpers take on second-placed Ipswich.

Exeter City v Plymouth Argyle: The Devon derby is one of the fiercest rivalries in English football - who will take the bragging rights?

S1 Ep39: How will the new manager's get on?

The Content Works — Fri, 18 Oct 2019 10:00:00 +0000

Sky Sports Don Goodman and Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff join Ben Turner to preview selected games in the EFL this weekend.

The featured games that are being previewed this week are:

Cardiff City v Sheffield Wednesday: A win would take Sheffield Wednesday top but Garry Monk doesn't have the best recored against the former Sheffield United manager Neil Warnock.

Blackburn Rovers v Huddersfield Town: Huddersfield have won as many points in their last three league games as they did in their previous 33 league games. Can the Cowley's make it three wins on the bounce for the Terriers?

Reading v Preston North End: Mark Bowen takes charge of the Royals for the first time, but Alex Neil's side have had a strong start to the season but can they mount a serious promotion push?

Wycombe Wanderers v Sunderland: Can Phil Parkinson make an impact in his first game in charge at Sunderland?

Grimsby Town v Leyton Orient: What does Orient captain Jobi McAnuff make of Carl Fletcher's appointment as manager?

S1 Ep38: Eddie Gray: Leeds United legend podcast

The Content Works — Thu, 17 Oct 2019 19:00:00 +0000

In a special edition to celebrate Leeds United's centenary year, Ben Turner interviews the club's greatest living player - former Scotland international Eddie Gray.

Gray played in the great Don Revie, the most successful Leeds side in the club's 100 year history and regarded as one of the great teams in English football history.

In the interview, Gray opens up about Brian Clough's infamous 44 day spell in charge of the Whites and the pain of being caretaker manager when Leeds United were relegated from the Premier League.

S1 Ep37: Rochdale and their wonder kids!

The Content Works — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 10:00:00 +0000

In a special edition of the Official EFL Podcast, Ben Turner visits Rochdale's training ground to get insight in to how the club are producing some of the biggest talents in the EFL.

Rochdale Manager Brian Barry-Murphy discusses his words of wisdom to teenage sensation Luke Matheson before he scored a memorable goal against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Rochdale Academy Manager Tony Ellis talks about who is going to be the next big star to make his name at the club.

There is also an interview with the EFL's Young Player of the Month, Hull City defender Jacob Greaves, who's currently on-loan at Cheltenham Town.

S1 Ep36: Nathan Jones hangs on but for how long?!

The Content Works — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Former Stoke City, Derby County, Birmingham City and Burton Albion manager now turned Sky Sports pundit Gary Rowett, EFL on Quest’s Michael Brown and Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff join Ben Turner to preview selected games in the EFL this weekend.

The trio also look back at the midweek results in the Sky Bet Championship, including West Bromwich Albion's defeat at Leeds United, Swansea City going back to the top of the table after beating Charlton Athletic and Huddersfield Town getting their first win of the season against fellow strugglers Stoke.

The big topic of discussion is under-fire Potters manager Nathan Jones, who this weekend takes on the Steve Cooper's league leaders at the Liberty Stadium.

Birmingham City v Middlesbrough: Three defeats on the bounce for Blues, does Pep Clotet have to get a result?

Fulham v Charlton Athletic: Two goals in midweek; is Tom Cairney the best player in the Sky Bet Championship and how do Charlton stop him?

Elsewhere the boys preview two huge games in Sky Bet League One and Two, with Fleetwood Town taking on Ipswich Town and Crewe Alexandra facing Exeter City.

S1 Ep35: Youngsters star in Carabao Cup, last chance saloon for Nathan Jones at Stoke and Forest are thriving!

The Content Works — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 17:00:00 +0000

Sky Sports Andy Hinchciffe, EFL on Quest's Michael Brown and Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff join Ben Turner to preview selected games in the EFL this weekend.

The trio also reflect on Carabao Cup Round Three, with young Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea stars getting their chance, Cupsets with Colchester United beating Tottenham Hotspur and Oxford United thrashing West Ham United, and some tasty ties in Round Four.

The featured games that are being previewed this week are:

Stoke City v Nottingham Forest: Is this the last chance for Nathan Jones to turn the corner? How has Sabri Lamouchi made Nottingham Forest in to a force to be reckoned with?

QPR v West Brom: Is this QPR's biggest test?

Barnsley v Brentford: The two lowest scoring sides in the Championship this season, let’s hope that stat changes this weekend.

Coventry City v Doncaster Rovers: Only one win in their last 12 away games for Doncaster – Is it too tough an ask for them?

Cheltenham Town v Crewe Alexandra: Eight out of Crewe’s 11 last week were academy graduates, how incredible is that?

S1 Ep34: Gareth Ainsworth: Working under Briatore, 7 years at Wycombe and still playing at 46

The Content Works — Wed, 25 Sep 2019 22:00:00 +0000

In a special edition of the podcast, Ben Turner meets Wycombe Wanderers manager Gareth Ainsworth, as he celebrates seven years in charge at Adams Park.

In an in-depth interview, Ainsworth also opens up about his playing career, going through the devastation from being let go by his boyhood club Blackburn Rovers, a memorable initiation when joining the 'crazy gang' at Wimbledon and the difficulties of coming back from a near career ending injury.

The former Queens Park Rangers midfielder also discusses the challenges of working under former QPR Chairman Flavio Briatore, the importance of the experienced players in his Wycombe squad and his ambitions of managing in the Sky Bet Championship.

S1 Ep33: The small matter of Leeds v Derby!

The Content Works — Thu, 19 Sep 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Sky Sports Keith Andrews and Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff join Ben Turner to preview selected games in the EFL this weekend.

They discuss in-depth the small matter of Leeds United taking on Derby at Elland Road. Will Leeds get revenge after Derby's incredible Sky Bet Play-Offs Semi Final defeat?

Brentford v Stoke City: Can Brentford stop their inconsistent form? Can Nathan Jones turn things around at Stoke?

West Brom v Huddersfield Town: How tough a task will it be for the Cowley's at Huddersfield? Do West Brom need to start converting draws in to wins to get in the automatic promotion picture?

The guys also preview Wycombe Wanderers v Portsmouth in Sky Bet League One and Newport County v high-flying Exeter City in Sky Bet League Two

S1 Ep32: Gary Rowett: Jim Smith's incredible man-management, why I left Derby and the big mistake I made at Stoke

The Content Works — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 05:00:00 +0000

In a special edition of the podcast, Ben Turner meets Gary Rowett to discuss his playing career, life as a manager and being an EFL pundit.

Rowett talks about the highs of joining high-flying Everton after making a name for himself at Cambridge United, reaching the Premier League under legendary Derby County manager Jim Smith and playing in Europe with Leicester City.

He also discusses the lows of injury curtailing his career at 28 and dropping down to the National League with Burton Albion before returning to EFL football as manager of the Brewers.

Rowett lifts the lid on how he was sacked at Birmingham City, leaving Derby County for an ill-fated spell in charge at Stoke City and Joe Royle's words inspiring him on to his next challenge in management.

S1 Ep31: Preview show back after international break!

The Content Works — Thu, 12 Sep 2019 16:00:00 +0000

The Official EFL Podcast preview show is back!

Sky Sports Andy Hinchciffe, EFL on Quest's Michael Brown and Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff join Ben Turner to preview selected games in the EFL this weekend.

They discuss the Yorkshire derby between the Sky Bet Championship's two newest managers - Huddersfield Town's Danny Cowley and Sheffield Wednesday's Garry Monk.

Derby County v Cardiff City: Should Philip Cocu already be under pressure? Will Neil Warnock be happy with the mid-table spot the Bluebirds currently find themselves in?

Fulham v West Bromwich Albion: Both sides are in the top six but do Fulham need to find another way of playing? Are West Brom conceding too many goals first

The guys also have an in-depth preview of Rotherham United v Bolton Wanderers in n in Sky Bet League One and the battle between top-of-the table Exeter City and Jobi's Leyton Orient in Sky Bet League Two.

S1 Ep30: Swansea look the real deal, the EFL's next big star and Bolton appoint Keith Hill!

The Content Works — Mon, 02 Sep 2019 18:00:00 +0000

With it being the international break next weekend and with it being the end of the first month of the season, we thought that we’d look back at the talking points from last weekend.

Joining Ben Turner are Sky Sports' Don Goodman and EFL on Quest’s Michael Brown.

Up for discussion this week:

1. Swansea going top of the Sky Bet Championship after their first win in 70 years at Elland Road - are they the real deal?

2. Do Leeds need to change things up at home to get goals?

3. Another defeat for Stoke City - where do the Potters go from here?

4. Jude Bellingham - the brightest star in the EFL?

5. The importance of young players playing men's first team football in the Leasing.com Trophy.

6. Charlton Athletic's unbeaten start - is Lee Bowyer doing the best job in the EFL?

7. Ipswich Town - has the confidence of James Norwood helped bring the feel good factor back to the Sky Bet League One leaders?

8. Keith Hill - Don think's Bolton have pulled off a master stroke by appointing the former Rochdale and Barnsley boss as Wanderers manager - but can he do the unthinkable and keep them up?

9. Exeter City - flying high at the top of Sky Bet League Two!

10. Stevenage score their first goals of the season!

11. Scunthorpe United bottom of the EFL - can Paul Hurst get out of their predicament?

S1 Ep29: The weekend preview show 3!

The Content Works — Thu, 29 Aug 2019 17:00:00 +0000

Sky Sports Andy Hinchciffe and Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff join Ben Turner to preview selected games in the EFL this weekend.

They discuss the battle between the top two in the Sky Bet Championship - Leeds United v Swansea City.

Cardiff City v Fulham: After a poor recent run of form should Stoke and England goalkeeper Jack Butland be dropped ahead of their match against table-topping Leeds?

Bristol City v Middlesbrough: Two new managers arrive in differing circumstances and some big players have left both clubs, but so-far on the pitch - who's in the best place ahead of this one?

The guys also have an in-depth preview of Ipswich Town v Shrewsbury Town in Sky Bet League One and the battle of the promoted clubs - Salford City v Jobi's Leyton Orient in Sky Bet League Two.

S1 Ep28: #OfficialEFLPodcast: Another preview show!

The Content Works — Fri, 23 Aug 2019 18:00:00 +0000

Sky Sports Andy Hinchciffe and David Prutton and Quest's Michael Brown join Ben Turner to preview selected games in the EFL this weekend.

They discuss the battle between two of the Sky Bet Championship's big name managers - Derby County's Phillip Cocu and West Bromwich Albion's Slaven Bilic.

Stoke City v Leeds United: After a poor recent run of form should Stoke and England goalkeeper Jack Butland be dropped ahead of their match against table-topping Leeds?

Swansea City v Birmingham City: Two new managers arrive in differing circumstances and some big players have left both clubs, but so-far on the pitch - who's in the best place ahead of this one?

The guys also have an in-depth preview of Doncaster Rovers v Lincoln City in Sky Bet League One and Newport County v high-flying Crewe Alexandra in Sky Bet League Two.

S1 Ep27: Legends of the EFL: Jobi McAnuff

The Content Works — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 16:00:00 +0000

In a Legends of the EFL special, Ben Turner speaks to Leyton Orient captain Jobi McAnuff about the ups and downs of his career.

In a wide-ranging interview, McAnuff talks about the highs of winning promotion to the Premier League with Reading, representing Jamaica in the Copa America and earning redemption during his second spell at Leyton Orient.

He also opens up about the crushing low of losing manager and friend Justin Edinburgh and how his legacy can help continue to drive the club to a successful season.

S1 Ep26: First preview show of the new season!

The Content Works — Fri, 09 Aug 2019 17:00:00 +0000

The Official EFL Podcast preview show is back!

Michael Brown and Neil Danns join Ben Turner to discuss fixtures from each division.

They also discuss the closing of the Sky Bet Championship transfer window. Who do you believe has done the best business? Will Wayne Rooney be a success at Derby County when he joins the Rams in January? Find out what our pundits think!

The matches from each division which are discussed are Leeds United v Nottingham Forest, Ipswich Town v Sunderland and Grimsby Town v Bradford City!

S1 Ep25: The Kaiser Chiefs podcast

The Content Works — Fri, 02 Aug 2019 14:00:00 +0000

On a special edition of the podcast, Ben Turner speaks to Kaiser Chiefs bassist and Leeds United fan Simon Rix ahead of the kick-off of the EFL season and the release of their new album, Duck.

S1 Ep24: Neil Danns: Legend of the EFL

The Content Works — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 16:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode, Ben Turner has an in-depth chat with Neil Danns in a 'Legends of the EFL' special.

Danns reflects on his time starting out in the Premier League with Blackburn Rovers, playing in the EFL for 11 different clubs and featuring in the Gold Cup for Guyana this summer.

S1 Ep23: Jermaine Beckford: Legend of the EFL

The Content Works — Thu, 25 Jul 2019 18:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode, Ben Turner has an in-depth chat with Jermaine Beckford in a 'Legends of the EFL' special.

Jermaine reflects on his ups and downs at Leeds United, including that goal against arch-rivals Manchester United.

The striker also looks back at the rest of his career, which included stints at Everton, Leicester City and Preston North End, and discusses a potential move to re-join former manager Simon Grayson at Blackpool.

S1 Ep22: #OfficialEFLPodcast: Fraser Franks

The Content Works — Thu, 18 Jul 2019 09:00:00 +0000

Ben Turner chats to the former Newport County captain Fraser Franks about what's next for his career after he retired due to a heart condition last season, just days after the club played one of their biggest ever matches against Manchester City.

Franks also reflects on his time in the Chelsea youth system, as well as his non-league career and rise back to the EFL with AFC Wimbledon, Luton Town and his time at Stevenage.

S1 Ep21: Alan Curtis: Legend of the EFL

The Content Works — Thu, 11 Jul 2019 16:00:00 +0000

On this week's edition of the show Ben Turner chats to Swansea City legend Alan Curtis.

Curtis, who also played for Leeds United, Southampton and Cardiff City retired from football at the end of last season after more than 40 years service at the Swans, but will take up a new role as honorary club president.

One of the greatest players in Swansea's history, Curtis has filled numerous off-field roles at the club.

S1 Ep20: Joe Thompson: Legend of the EFL

The Content Works — Fri, 05 Jul 2019 15:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode, Ben Turner has an in-depth chat with the former Rochdale star and now motivational speaker Joe Thompson in a legends of the EFL special.

Thompson made over 250 appearances in a 13-year career, of which nearly 200 came for the Dale, and proved to be an inspiration to a much wider audience than just simply football after bravely battling, and overcoming, cancer on two occasions.

A story that resonated with the nation, the 30-year old sadly announced that he would be hanging up his playing boots midway through the 2018/19 campaign – just months after scoring one of Rochdale’s most famous goals to save the Club from relegation at the end of the previous season.

Having battled back from Hodgkin lymphoma cancer, Thompson etched himself into Rochdale folklore. It was a truly breath-taking and heart-wrenching journey, with an almost fairy-tale ending.

S1 Ep19: Legends of the EFL: Dave Allison

The Content Works — Fri, 28 Jun 2019 12:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode, Ben Turner has an in-depth chat with the former PGMOL National Group Director and full-time referee, David Allison about his career in a legends of the EFL special.

S1 Ep18: Legends of the EFL: The EFL's oldest player

The Content Works — Fri, 21 Jun 2019 14:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode, Ben Turner has an in-depth chat with the oldest player in the EFL, Crawley Town's Dannie Bulman in a 'Legends of the EFL' special.

S1 Ep17: Dean Windass: Legend of the EFL

The Content Works — Thu, 13 Jun 2019 14:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode, Ben Turner has an in-depth chat with Dean Windass in a 'Legends of the EFL' special.

Dean talks in-depth about his playing career, including discussing Hull City's £60 million goal.

He also discusses the prospect of managing his home town team and his struggles off the pitch since retirement.

S1 Ep16: Gary Taylor-Fletcher: Legend of the EFL

The Content Works — Fri, 07 Jun 2019 15:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode, Ben Turner has an in-depth chat with Gary Taylor-Fletcher in a 'Legends of the EFL' special.

Taylor-Fletcher has scored in every one of the top six divisions, earning promotion to the Premier league with both Leicester City and of course Blackpool.

This week he hung up his boots on the day of his 38th birthday.

We met up with him for a coffee near Liverpool to discuss his 20 year playing career.

S1 Ep15: Sky Bet Play-Off Finals Review!

The Content Works — Wed, 29 May 2019 17:00:00 +0000

In this Sky Bet Play-Off Final review special, Ben Turner speaks with Sky Sports pundits Andy Hinchcliffe and Don Goodman who provide expert analysis of all three matches.

Aston Villa v Derby County, Charlton Athletic v Sunderland and Newport County v Tranmere Rovers.

You can also hear from all three managers of the winning sides!

S1 Ep14: The Sky Bet Play-Off Finals are here!

The Content Works — Wed, 22 May 2019 21:00:00 +0000

In this Sky Bet Play-Off Final preview special, Ben Turner speaks with Sky Sports pundits Andy Hinchcliffe and Don Goodman who provide expert analysis ahead of all three matches.

Aston Villa v Derby County, Charlton Athletic v Sunderland and Newport County v Tranmere Rovers.

There is also an exclusive interview with Editors star and Villa fan Russell Leetch!

S1 Ep13: The second legs are looking tasty!

The Content Works — Mon, 13 May 2019 11:00:00 +0000

In the second Sky Bet Play-Offs preview special Ben Turner speaks with Sky Sports pundits Andy Hinchcliffe and Don Goodman who provide expert analysis ahead of the Championship and League One second legs.

West Brom v Aston Villa, Leeds United v Derby County, Portsmouth v Sunderland and Charlton Athletic v Doncaster Rovers.

S1 Ep12: The Play-Offs are here!

The Content Works — Tue, 07 May 2019 18:00:00 +0000

In a special Sky Bet Play-Offs preview special Ben Turner speaks with Sky Sports pundits Andy Hinchcliffe and Don Goodman who provide expert analysis ahead of Aston Villa v West Brom, Derby County v Leeds United, Sunderland v Portsmouth, Doncaster Rovers v Charlton Athletic, Newport County v Mansfield Town and Tranmere Rovers v Forest Green Rovers.

S1 Ep11: The final week of the season!

The Content Works — Thu, 02 May 2019 17:00:00 +0000

In a special hour-long edition of the show Ben Turner looks back at three promotions in midweek, with interviews from Bury manager Ryan Lowe, Barnsley head coach Daniel Stendel and Luton interim manager Mick Harford!

Sky Sports pundits Andy Hinchcliffe and Don Goodman provide expert analysis ahead of the final week of the EFL regular season.

In the Sky Bet Championship, the duo talk the title race between Sheffield United and Norwich City and the battle for that final play-off spot between Derby County, Bristol City and Middlesbrough.

In Sky Bet League One, the featured games are Southend United v Sunderland and Plymouth Argyle taking on Scunthorpe United, with six teams fighting to stay in the division!

And in Sky Bet League Two, Andy and Don focus on the battle for promotion, as MK Dons take on Mansfield in an all or nothing tie for the final automatic spot!

S1 Ep10: The penultimate weekend!

The Content Works — Thu, 25 Apr 2019 17:00:00 +0000

This week's edition of the show Ben Turner interviews former Sheffield Wednesday, Hartlepool United and Chesterfield star Ritchie Humphries, who is taking on the London Marathon this weekend to raise money for mental health charity Mind.

Sky Sports pundits Andy Hinchcliffe and Don Goodman provide expert analysis ahead of a penultimate weekend of EFL action.

In the Sky Bet Championship, the duo talk Sheffield United v Ipswich Town, Norwich City v Blackburn Rovers, Leeds United v Aston Villa and Bristol City v Derby County

In Sky Bet League One, the featured games are Burton Albion v Luton Town and a repeat of the EFL Trophy Final - Sunderland v Portsmouth!

And in Sky Bet League Two, Andy and Don discuss the five-way tussle for the final two automatic promotion places.

S1 Ep9: Are Lincoln City set to be champions after promotion? There's an exciting Easter weekend ahead!

The Content Works — Wed, 17 Apr 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Things are now getting even more serious in the EFL and on this week's edition of the show, Ben Turner reflects on Lincoln City's promotion to Sky Bet League One with Imps midfielder Tom Pett.

Sky Sports pundits Andy Hinchcliffe and Don Goodman provide expert analysis ahead of a packed weekend of EFL action.

In the Sky Bet Championship, the duo talk Sheffield United, Nottingham Forest, Leeds United, Wigan Athletic, Norwich City and Sheffield Wednesday.

In Sky Bet League One, the featured game is Sunderland v Doncaster Rovers - a crucial game for both sides in the hunt for promotion.

And in Sky Bet League Two, Andy and Don discuss the four-way tussle for the final two automatic promotion places.

S1 Ep8: Legends of the EFL: Grant Holt

The Content Works — Wed, 10 Apr 2019 13:00:00 +0000

Ahead of the launch of his autobiography, Ben Turner talks in-depth to Grant Holt about his footballing journey in the first legends of the EFL special.

Born in Carlisle, the former Norwich City striker opens up about starting in the game while working full-time as a tyre fitter, his difficult first move in to the EFL after the death of his father and his metroic rise with the Canaries which saw him end up starring in the Premier League.

Holt also talks about his future wrestling career - will we see him in the WWE in the years to come?

S1 Ep7: Portsmouth win record-breaking Checkatrade Trophy Final and Michael Johnson guides Guyana to Gold Cup

The Content Works — Wed, 03 Apr 2019 23:00:00 +0000

This week's episode sees Ben Turner react to a record-breaking Checkatrade Trophy Final at Wembley.

85,000 people (the highest crowd the competition has ever had) watched on at the national stadium to see Portsmouth beat Sunderland 5-4 on penalties after an exhilarating match which ended 2-2.

This episode includes interviewees with goal scorer Jamal Lowe, the man who made the crucial penalty save in Craig MacGillivray and EFL Chief Executive Shaun Harvey.

Also on the show there is an interview with former Notts County, Birmingham City, Derby County and Sheffield Wednesday defender Michael Johnson, who has guided Guyana to the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup for the first time in their history.

S1 Ep6: Portsmouth v Sunderland Checkatrade Trophy Final special and the Championship is back!

The Content Works — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

This week's hour long special episode sees Ben Turner focus on the Checkatrade Trophy Final between Portsmouth and Sunderland.

We've got interviews with managers Kenny Jackett and Jack Ross (who even has his own chilli and Irn Bru flavoured sausage ahead of the Final...)

Portsmouth's Jamal Lowe speaks about growing up close to Wembley and fulfilling his dream of playing at the national stadium.

Lee Cattermole opens up about Sunday being a chance for Sunderland to repay the fans.

Last year's winning manager Danny Cowley discusses the importance of that victory to Lincoln City.

England manager Gareth Southgate gives his views on the competition and how he believes it is vital for younger players.

The end of the international break also sees the Sky Bet Championship return. Sky Sports pundits Andy Hinchcliffe and Don Goodman provide expert analysis on games involving West Brom, Birmingham City, Middlesbrough, Norwich, Sheffield United and Leeds United.

S1 Ep5: Rotherham United's Chairman honoured with OBE and how tight is the relegation battle in Sky Bet League One!?

The Content Works — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

This week's episode sees Ben Turner interview Rotherham United Chairman Tony Stewart, who recently visited Buckingham Palace to be awarded his OBE.

The focus this week is firmly on Sky Bet League One, as we look at how tight things are at the top and bottom of the league - 13 teams could be in a relegation dog fight.

Sky Sports presenter and former player David Prutton provides expert analysis and we also speak to Walsall captain George Dobson and Barnsley's rising star Jacob Brown ahead of the clash in the early Saturday kick-off.

S1 Ep4: Leeds United v Sheffield United preview and Sky Bet League Two striker set to make Republic of Ireland debut aged 30

The Content Works — Thu, 14 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

This week's episode sees Ben Turner interview Newport County striker Pádraig Amond about being called in to the Republic of Ireland national squad for the first time at the age of 30.

Ahead of the crucial Sky Bet Championship match between Leeds United and Sheffield United, there is an in-depth interview with Brian Deane, who played up front for both clubs.

Former midfielder Michael Brown also looks ahead to that clash between his two former sides and the two other featured EFL games in Sky Bet League's One and Two with Sky Sports Commentator Gary Weaver.

S1 Ep3: Sunderland book Checkatrade Trophy Final place and a look back at some top EFL careers

The Content Works — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

This week's episode sees Ben Turner reflect on Sunderland booking their place in the Checkatrade Trophy Final at Wembley, interviews with Derby County's Richard Keogh, who made his 600th career appearance this week, and we also have a special extended chat with Wycombe Wanderers stalwart Matt Bloomfield ahead of his 500th appearance for the club.

Of course we're also looking ahead to the big games in the EFL this weekend with Sky Sports EFL pundits Andy Hinchcliffe and Don Goodman.

Other interviewees include Sunderland manager Jack Ross and Black Cats legend Kevin Ball.

S1 Ep2: Man City win Carabao Cup and Portsmouth book Wembley place

The Content Works — Thu, 28 Feb 2019 16:00:00 +0000

This week's episode is packed full of great content, as Ben Turner reflects on Manchester City's Carabao Cup Final triumph, Portsmouth booking their place in the Checkatrade Trophy Final and look ahead to the big games in the EFL this weekend.

Among our latest interviewees are City's Bernardo Silva, Portsmouth boss Kenny Jackett and club legend Alan Knight, and special guest David Prutton, who provides a fantastic insight into the next round of fixtures.

S1 Ep1: The Carabao Cup Final preview

The Content Works — Tue, 19 Feb 2019 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the episode one of The Official EFL Podcast!

We’ll be with you every week showcasing the best of what the EFL has to offer.

This week, the focus is firmly on one of the biggest matches of the season so far - the Carabao Cup Final.

Chelsea versus Manchester City – a packed house at Wembley Stadium, kicking off at 4.30pm (GMT) this Sunday.

We’ve got exclusive interviews from both camps, including Blues talisman Eden Hazard and City captain Vincent Kompany.

We’ll also be speaking to a few legends from yesteryear and getting insight from Sky Sports' Carabao Cup final commentator, Rob Hawthorne.

Don't miss it!