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World Cup Paths & Toon Stars: England, Home Nations & Newcastle’s Rising Internationals
10 Plays9 days ago
In today’s episode of The Daily Newcastle Podcast, Michael breaks down the full World Cup qualification picture—from England’s steady campaign to the contrasting fortunes of the Home Nations.
We examine who’s thriving, who’s struggling, and what it all means heading toward the biggest stage in football.
Plus, a deep dive into Newcastle United’s growing international presence:
• Which Toon players are likely World Cup locks
• Who’s fighting for a place
• And how Newcastle’s squad evolution is shaping national teams around the globe
A detailed, analytical conversation perfect for Newcastle fans, England supporters, and anyone following the road to the next World Cup
Recommended
Transcript
Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:00:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
Hello and welcome back to the Daily Newcastle podcast. I'm Michael Grahamslone. Today we're breaking down the World Cup qualification picture. England's campaign so far, where the home nations stand and which Newcastle United players could be featuring on the biggest stage.
Co-Host Reunion and Podcast Interruptions
00:00:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
But before we get to all that, I am joined today by my good pal Ian Mackay. How's it going mate, you good?
00:00:38
Iain
It's very good, Michael. I'm glad you've come back because because now I can do it the podcasts again. ah I'm not sure what happened in that week you were away. It all went a bit funny and we missed a day or two, but what can I say?
00:00:54
Iain
pressures of work, family, all sorts of things. um But we're back.
England's World Cup Qualifying Journey
00:01:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
absolutely we are back and better than ever perfect let's get straight into it so we're going to start with england as you know you might expect we are english uh but most people you know they kind of expected a fairly straightforward qualifying campaign and to be fair it
00:01:04
Iain
Coming up next tonight, OGs of the Phillies down. The legendary stylistics are our special guests on the great conversation. Coming up next on Greatest Hits Radio.
00:01:14
Iain
Greatest Hits Radio. There's money for you. You couldn't be sitting unclaimed. If you're over state pension aid and are low income, you could be entitled to extra support.
00:01:22
Global Sports Podcast Network
Probably was that way, but I don't think anyone ever expected England to have it just so easy.
00:01:25
Iain
I agree. have engine I because the quality of is any poorer than it normally is.
00:01:29
Global Sports Podcast Network
You looked at at Serbia in particular and thought, oh, that might be a problem.
00:01:32
Iain
I mean, fair enough.
00:01:32
Global Sports Podcast Network
But this has been arguably the most comfortable qualifying stage for a World Cup ever.
00:01:34
Iain
We haven't got to point four i already clay one could be missing
00:01:40
Global Sports Podcast Network
Right? Right.
00:01:42
Iain
i agree i agree but i don't think that's because the quality of our aition is any poorer than it normally is i mean farrat if we haven't got
00:01:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:01:52
Iain
a Germany or an Italy thrown in there, which I think have popped up occasionally.
00:01:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah
00:01:57
Iain
But yeah, Serbia and Albania have been in good form, should should have provided some sort of challenge. But I think i think England look far more reliable, dare I say it.
00:02:13
Iain
um Probably because Tuchel's playing a system and he's finding the players to fit his system rather than trying to crowbar all of the yeah big stars into what clearly isn't a system, which I think is what Southgate ended up doing.
00:02:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely. think when you look at Phil Foden, it's a prime example of that. Um, He has played the number the number nine a little bit the last couple of weeks just to see maybe if he can play that false nine.
00:02:39
Iain
coach company up
00:02:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
Obviously, when Harry Kane does retire, England are pretty...
00:02:42
Iain
only and you know Visit their experience in finding drivers.org.au.
00:02:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah We haven't exactly got a lot of quality up front. So it probably will end up being a false nine.
00:02:50
Iain
The answer is all these things.
00:02:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
if We've seen Bellingham there. We've seen Foden there. But as you say, he's not just crowbarring these players in.
00:02:55
Iain
It makes every journey feel so special why there are multiple opportunities.
00:02:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
um He did make some changes um for the Albania game.
00:03:01
Iain
Find out more on bus.co.uk
00:03:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
We were still very comfortable. Although... oh Dean Henderson did make some good saves, but until we play someone better than Serbia, that 3-1 defeat to Senegal is always going to remain as a bit of a dark cloud over England. But they did make history in this qualifying campaign.
England's Defensive Mastery and Team Rotation
00:03:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
They became the first nation in the new format, it does have to be said, um not ever, to avoid conceding a goal in qualifying. That is pretty impressive, right?
00:03:31
Iain
Well, it is impressive. um And if you look at the... yeah I know John Stones was in the back four last like the last game against Albania, but he played him in midfield largely.
00:03:43
Iain
and Dan Byrne was the most experienced of the defenders with five. I think he had five caps and that was more than the other two had added together because it was O'Reilly's second game and Kwanzaa's debut.
00:03:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. Yeah.
00:03:57
Iain
So it's not like we put an old the old hands in defence bailing us out. um we just got ah We've got a system, I think. We've got a system that can be tweaked and The players that are ah attending the camps, the training camps, which is bigger than the 11 that turn up to play the game, all know that system.
00:04:21
Iain
So that's what we need. That's what a team is, isn't it? Where all the individual parts are interchangeable, but the team rolls on.
00:04:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely.
00:04:30
Iain
Think of the best club teams. The best club teams work that way.
00:04:34
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely. I think it's one of those. you know The World Cup is going to be a squad ah game.
00:04:39
Iain
Peter Blades, your door with your postcode before midnight on the 30th of November.
00:04:40
Global Sports Podcast Network
I mentioned in a podcast I did a couple of days ago about the World Cup.
00:04:44
Iain
A share of £38.2 million must be won.
00:04:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
The expansion means that there's the get the the tournament is longer.
00:04:48
Iain
Is your door in the draw?
00:04:49
Global Sports Podcast Network
More games are being played if you are going to make the final.
00:04:50
Iain
Peter's Postcode Lottery manages lotteries on behalf of good causes.
00:04:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
So that squad is going to be crucial.
00:04:53
Iain
18 plus conditions apply.
00:04:54
Global Sports Podcast Network
And it's really good that we did get that rotation in.
00:04:54
Iain
Pay responsibly, not stable in all the night. Thank you. introducing the ruleign deling say the be beginning
00:04:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
even if it was just against Albania, because it just gets the bit of experience there.
00:04:59
Iain
trip process um helps him handle and
00:05:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
You mentioned Konza, Nico O'Reilly.
00:05:02
Iain
um on your holiday to do to be
00:05:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
I think between them, they have very few caps.
00:05:05
Iain
like organizing rough day saying um a holiday it
00:05:08
Global Sports Podcast Network
Same with Byrne as well.
00:05:09
Iain
thank
00:05:10
Global Sports Podcast Network
um But they're growing in an experience. I think Konza's had a little bit more caps than Dan Byrne.
00:05:12
Iain
like dinner lincoln inspectgearian presarian luckilyily the don can you see
00:05:16
Global Sports Podcast Network
um But when it comes to playing on the big stage, you know,
00:05:17
Iain
and not um with impressive battery life you can do it all faster to get it all down
00:05:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
Dan Burns done the cup final.
00:05:21
Iain
The power of the Dell PC with Intel inside.
00:05:22
Global Sports Podcast Network
He's had the nerves of, and I know it's a Carabao cup final.
00:05:24
Iain
Get yours at dell.co.uk forward slash holiday.
00:05:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
going to go all marquees had that as well, but nothing quite equates to cap.
00:05:26
Iain
Have a white cracker of a Christmas. Maldi's meat pies encased in luxurious all-button pastry.
00:05:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
Well, not being captain, but leave out your hometown club at Wembley and scoring in that game.
00:05:34
Iain
And that Christmas pudding infused with zesty orange perfume and dark maple syrup.
00:05:38
Global Sports Podcast Network
So Dan Burns done that. He's got that experience there.
00:05:40
Iain
As long as I have not used stockings often.
00:05:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
And I think, I think that'll be vital to England as well, but it does mean that England are now and beaten in the last 39 world cup qualifiers and
00:05:43
Iain
Goal fancy, Maldi, specially selected. so This is Greatest 6 Radio on FM, DAB's smart speaker, and now playing on radio.
00:05:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
The last man to lose one for England was Fabio Capello in 2009, a defeat against Ukraine.
00:05:54
Iain
Across Europe, it's awesome. This is Greatest 6 Radio. How about that?
00:06:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh, did you know?
00:06:03
Iain
I got it. ah got it.
00:06:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
Wow. Can you remember the game or was it a ah lucky guess?
00:06:06
Iain
Yeah. and and I think we had already qualified. um and but it was I think it was a bit of a nondescript game. I do remember one-all in Ukraine, or was it Poland, when Peter Shilton kept us in the game?
00:06:22
Iain
And we should have lost it, but we got a draw out of it. That was going back even further.
00:06:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
I don't think that was in the 30s.
00:06:26
Iain
That's because I'm so old.
00:06:30
Iain
Yeah, not in the 39. No, that is incredible, isn't it? But then it does show what a different beast the finals are in comparison to qualifying for the finals.
World Cup Finals vs Qualifiers: Tactical Depth
00:06:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely.
00:06:45
Iain
Yeah. Because some of the World Cups in amongst those qualifiers, we've performed dreadfully. Yes,
00:06:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, to say the least. Finishing below Costa Rica in 2014 was a particular low point.
00:06:56
Iain
yes. okay and the educating
00:06:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah yeah You've got a group of death, Uruguay, Italy, and you're thinking, right, if you can just avoid defeat against one of those, you've got a chance.
00:06:59
Iain
yes yes
00:07:03
Iain
im continue well yeah agency employees have voted in favour of joining council staff on the picket line.
00:07:07
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah And then we didn't. And then Costa Rica also came to town and we looked worse than them.
00:07:11
Iain
The Police Service of Northern Ireland has launched a criminal investigation into the Presbyterian Church.
00:07:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
So, yeah. You know what? I quite like Thomas Tuchel and Gareth Southgate now, remembering back to that.
00:07:16
Iain
It's admitted serious and safe garbage between 2009 and 2022.
00:07:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
It could be worse. Could lose to Iceland in a tournament. So, well, hang on, we've done that as well.
00:07:23
Iain
And amber cold health alerts in France for large areas of England.
00:07:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
So positive times, that isn't going on right now.
00:07:26
Iain
There are also rains for snow ice for parts of Scotland in the coming days and its burples from the wet office.
00:07:27
Global Sports Podcast Network
They'll probably jinxed us for next summer. um But again, i think the 39 World Cup games, you mentioned it there.
00:07:33
Iain
The coldest days likely to be Wednesday, Thursday this week when fair few places will struggle to get above freezing by day, by night, could drop into negative double figures.
00:07:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
like it The World Cup is a different beast to the qualifiers. And i think it maybe shows that we're it's far too early to judge Thomas too shortly. although he has made history, he has done well, the first thing that you could maybe criticise is the whole Jude Bellingham situation where it feels like him and Tuchel have had a little bit of a falling out.
00:07:44
Iain
ah So somehow Very low temperatures, difficult conditions sure, and then we have to factor the snow and the ice risk. And Scotland will be without Billy Gilmore for their must-earing World Cup qualifier against Denmark tomorrow night.
00:07:56
Iain
The lovely midfielder has a thigh issue to catch him out of the defeat to Greece at the weekend.
00:07:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
um It could even be something to do with Real Madrid, and
Jude Bellingham's Role and Midfield Competition
00:08:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
not wanting him to play for England and risk him that way.
00:08:02
Iain
From Sky News, I'm Kat Swave.
00:08:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
um Because obviously Tuchel has retreated the side. Bellingham did come back into play. and But he did say it's impossible to play Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Harry Kane together.
00:08:15
Global Sports Podcast Network
And then, literally, less than a couple of days later, i went on to do the very same thing after bringing on substitutes in the game. But Bellingham's situation's not deteriorated a little bit, but where do you see fitting into the England's XI? Hmm.
00:08:31
Iain
um Well, I see him as the number 10, for sure, if he is fitting in there. But we do have a number of good number 10s. And... and um I think don't think Tuchel likes all of the attitude.
00:08:48
Iain
i mean I think you need a little bit of an arrogance to be a Galactico at Real Madrid and have a 20-goal season.
00:08:48
Global Sports Podcast Network
No. I agree.
00:08:54
Global Sports Podcast Network
You do. Absolutely.
00:08:57
Iain
And he is still a pretty young man still.
00:09:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:09:00
Iain
But if that starts rubbing off by thinking that you've got to have some special treatment when it's the manager who's picking who's coming on, who's coming off, who's picking the team... And Tuchel, I think, wants to put the marker down that who's in charge.
00:09:16
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely.
00:09:16
Iain
I think that's where the tension was a little bit. And, then you know, he did get a little bit of a free pass to drop him, didn't he? Because he was injured. And then he was only just back from injury to leave him out of a few squads.
00:09:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah
00:09:28
Iain
and He's brought him straight back into the squad and started him last night. Well, not last night, whenever it was. Started him on Sunday.
00:09:39
Iain
and So, yeah i think you've got to take Bellingham. He's a special player.
00:09:46
Global Sports Podcast Network
the I think for me, the thing that's stood out is the fact when he played in centre midfield, you were thinking, oh yeah, he looks alright. And then Elliot Anderson has come in.
00:09:54
Iain
Welcome, welcome to The Great Conversation with Jackie Brambles.
00:09:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
and completely outperformed Bellingham in that position.
00:09:57
Iain
This is the home of great conversations with your favorite living legends of the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
00:09:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
And then you remember he tried him up front a little bit, you know, when Harry Kane wasn't there.
00:10:04
Iain
And tonight we are landing firmly in the 70s with a legendary American soul group that scored hit after hit when they hit the UK charts with songs like Veggie by Golly, Wow, Stone in Love with You, and our opening track,
00:10:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
and And he just he can't get the goals that Harry Kane can. There isn't really ah player on the planet except from that guy from Norway who tore apart Italy ah the other night and has done so numerous times now ah that can do that.
00:10:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
you know there's He is one of the best, if not the best, striker in the world right now.
00:10:20
Iain
Rock and Roll Baby, to name but three of many. They recently released brand new album and are currently touring the UK.
00:10:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
And he's also a striker that can put in a slight challenge on the edge of the box.
00:10:27
Iain
Tomorrow night they're at the corner of the St. Louis Eastwood.
00:10:29
Global Sports Podcast Network
he's done I saw him do it for Munich the other week and now he's doing it for England.
00:10:30
Iain
Wednesday night, South End Cliffs Pavilion.
00:10:32
Global Sports Podcast Network
So,
00:10:33
Iain
Thursday they'll be at the Concord and Kissley.
00:10:33
Global Sports Podcast Network
Harry Kane, you can't be keeping him out the side. um So it only leaves that number 10 spot, which as you say, we've got an embarrassment of riches in that position.
00:10:36
Iain
Finishing up at the Guildhall in Portsmouth this coming Saturday evening. So what a delight to welcome from the legendary soul superstars, the stylist, that's Arian Love and Jason Sharp.
00:10:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
you know There's Cole Palmer still to come back from injury. Phil Foden's in there. You could even have Eberreche as if you don't want to play him on the left.
00:10:48
Iain
Hello, how are you I'm great. are you doing? I'm great.
00:10:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
Morgan Rodgers, if you don't want to play him on the right, their best positions really for me are just sort of behind the striker.
00:10:52
Iain
Well, listen, thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us on our great conversation. i know it's a busy time at the moment in the middle of your UK tour.
00:10:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
For me, I like them a bit more centrally. Managers have liked them a bit more out wide.
00:11:00
Iain
Lots to organize and coordinate moving around the country, performing and, of course, promoting the new album, the first new record in a couple of decades.
00:11:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
They see them more than me. They probably are better a little bit out wide. But at the end of the day, they get even more competition out wide and Tuchel can't play them all.
00:11:09
Iain
Oh, yeah. You're good. Very, very busy time and time.
00:11:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
So until Kane retires, you're sort of thinking, yeah, Kane retires and Bellingham does go into that false nine for me.
00:11:14
Iain
Tell us about the new album. The new album is entitled Falling In Love With My Girl.
00:11:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. But until then, he's got some real competition for that number 10 spot.
00:11:20
Iain
It was produced by a gentleman named Tom Crippen.
00:11:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
Now, mentioned five players on purpose there.
00:11:24
Iain
We met Tom while touring in the UK.
00:11:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
Cole Palmer, Phil Fohen, Jude Bellingham, Eberetti, Eze and Morgan Rodgers.
00:11:28
Iain
Tom opened. the show for us on tour for like three years and we worked together year and he said to us you know would you guys be interested in the world and how we said yes he said okay I'll work together some days and I did that too and so I think so and
00:11:32
Global Sports Podcast Network
Out of those five, who do you think is at the biggest risk of being left off the plane to the United States if everyone's fit? Because for me, it was Eze. but two brilliant performances from Well, one brilliant performance, should I say, from him in the first game.
00:11:49
Global Sports Podcast Network
Decent in the second. He's certainly Tuchel's plans now, isn't he?
00:11:57
Iain
I know he's not a number 10, but I think the Rashford's crossed last night and as his performance in the first game, might be Anthony Gordon who's going to miss out of the lane on the left-hand side, which would be a surprise because two camps ago, he looked like he was a dead cert, didn't
00:12:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, I think he might.
00:12:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm.
00:12:15
Iain
and There's still a lot of football to play, Michael. That's a lot of cliche, isn't it? But you don't know how injuries are going to work. It's great. It's great that we've got two or three really good players that could play in each position.
00:12:28
Iain
Because, you know, that some of them are going to be exhausted. Some of them are going to be injured. Some of them are going to lose form. um and And what you need to do is take 26 players who are in form and all get on.
00:12:42
Iain
So, um out of those five, if they're all going to be picked as a number 10... 10... Has Morgan Rodgers not been picked as number 10? I should not.
00:12:52
Iain
she
00:12:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
He's sort of been on the right.
00:12:53
Iain
when Bellingham... Yeah.
00:12:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
We know Saka is going to have that position on the right.
00:12:57
Iain
that call me said oh Yeah. she got yeah yeah yeah
00:12:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
I'm thinking Bowen probably gets called up as well. So if Rodgers is going to play, I think it is going to be a bit more just behind the striker.
00:13:08
Iain
I think he's earned a place at least in the middle of those five. It's probably, for me, it's Cole Palmer, who really needs to get fit and do something spectacular because he's missed the whole of
00:13:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm.
00:13:23
Iain
Tuchel's run really, hasn't he? has't
00:13:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, it's one of those fantastic players.
00:13:26
Iain
and So it's probably Karl Palmer. Karl Palmer can't just suddenly materialise in the squad if he hasn't played in any of the Tuchel training camps.
00:13:37
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely.
00:13:38
Iain
um Foden looked dodgy, but he seems to have rediscovered his form, which is what he needed to do.
00:13:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:13:45
Iain
and So yeah, I'm going to put perhaps the best player out of the five of them. I've got him down as the one who's likely to miss out simply because of circumstances and his ah
00:13:59
Iain
non-availability through to injury.
00:13:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
injury record yeah
00:14:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah it is one of those in a way you look at Cole Palmer and there's such a brilliant player there I think at the start of last season up until Christmas he was the best player in the league without a shadow of a doubt um but then you're looking at it this season obviously the injury Foden as you mentioned is coming back as Ian Rogers are in yeah good form themselves Rogers wasn't at the start of the season and
00:14:06
Iain
ahna That's what we felt. We said, well, maybe this can open up a new market for us and not only go pop, but go country also. Well, let's have a listen to that track right now from the new album Falling in Love with My Girl. This is the new single from the stylist of Shania Twain.
00:14:25
Iain
Yes, I will. Well, we made it.
00:14:27
Global Sports Podcast Network
He is now. He's looking good for England as well.
00:14:29
Iain
You and me.
00:14:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
And you can't drop Jude Bellingham.
00:14:31
Iain
ah see
00:14:32
Global Sports Podcast Network
So Palmer is in a really, really difficult position where he's going to have to move one of those out of the squad.
00:14:36
Iain
Oh, I'm smoking like I lost it.
00:14:39
Global Sports Podcast Network
um And to be honest, I do think it'll end up being Phil Foden just simply because of the comment of, well, we've said it ourselves, he doesn't want to play players out of position.
00:14:39
Iain
Everything. it'll get us now. Baby.
00:14:47
Iain
know it a while. I didn't stop here to smile.
00:14:49
Global Sports Podcast Network
Rodgers can go on the right. Ezi can go on the left.
00:14:52
Iain
And together.
00:14:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
Bellingham can go
00:14:54
Iain
Oh, you come such a long way.
00:14:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
either in Kane's position or sit deeper. Foden is the only one, really, who is a bit more struck stuck to that central position.
00:14:59
Iain
I'm just going to be here.
00:15:04
Iain
I am.
00:15:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
and But Palmer is as well.
00:15:05
Iain
I'm sick.
00:15:07
Global Sports Podcast Network
Palmer can go on the right, but typically he does like to prefer central positions.
00:15:10
Iain
Oh no.
00:15:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
So he is at both of those. Palmer and Foden are at real risk for me. um But with that, we've spoke about England. England was always going to be the, the main part of the pod, but do want to go into our first advert of the evening, this one from Bionny, and then we'll talk a little bit more about our neighbours.
00:15:47
Iain
Such a long way. I'm
00:15:58
Iain
looking at it for you.
00:16:02
Iain
So I'm over. When it's all over. It's just
00:16:10
Global Sports Podcast Network
Good stuff.
Scotland's Challenging Path to Qualification
00:16:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
So talking about the home nations, let's widen our lens a little bit. So the rest of the home nations have had very different journeys.
00:16:21
Iain
yes I know.
00:16:21
Global Sports Podcast Network
We'll start with them.
00:16:22
Iain
Why did he never get a game if he's the Greek goalkeeper?
00:16:22
Global Sports Podcast Network
Scotland, because theirs for me is the, it's the biggest surprise actually, because they royally messed up at the weekend, didn't they?
00:16:25
Iain
So, there's never... plain um their new album link in with michael go
00:16:29
Global Sports Podcast Network
Three nil down to Greece after 63 minutes.
00:16:30
Iain
we have a two for for you so are you going to have styistic like but aian love
00:16:33
Global Sports Podcast Network
Odysseus, Some might remember him as the forgotten goalkeeper from Newcastle, having an absolute blinder.
00:16:35
Iain
so just pack i know why did he never get why did he never get a game if you to greek goalkeeper
00:16:44
Global Sports Podcast Network
I mean, he was good for it against England.
00:16:44
Iain
oh it's just never
00:16:46
Global Sports Podcast Network
He was good against Scotland. ah He must have been absolutely terrible in training for us.
00:16:48
Iain
So it doesn't feel like 15 years, honestly, working with Aaron and Herbert feels like a good job.
00:16:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah But he's currently getting games at Sevilla as well. um but yeah
00:16:55
Iain
They've really helped me along and made me feel like I am just as a original as they are, you know?
00:16:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
Denmark dropped points in the end. Scotland, Odysseus stopped them from ah from getting any points.
00:17:01
Iain
And it's really, you know, been a great opportunity for me as an entertainer.
00:17:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
And it goes down to the wire, what will be tonight at Hampden Park when this goes out.
00:17:05
Iain
I'm a little younger than they are, like but we all have old souls.
00:17:08
Global Sports Podcast Network
Can you see Scotland grabbing automatic qualification at home to Denmark?
00:17:09
Iain
So I just kind of follow their lead and they've been working for 15 years, so I don't think I'm going anywhere.
00:17:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
Or do you think they'll have to settle for the playoffs?
00:17:14
Iain
And of course, as you were growing up and getting into the music seen yourself if they had If they had drawn, let's say, in Greece,
00:17:28
Iain
I would have said yes. The fact that they lost. But I know they came back from three down, and they, and scored twice. mean, that was a great game.
00:17:34
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah yeah
00:17:36
Iain
And Denmark will be the definition of squeaky bum time now. um And it's Scotland. Scotland the Brave at Hampden Park. Why not? I'm rooting for them to do it, actually.
00:17:49
Iain
i like I like having all the home nations involved.
00:17:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah I agree
00:17:53
Iain
um but Although it means we won't see Willa Sula in the World Cup if that happens.
00:17:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:17:59
Iain
Although they'll end up second. They could get through with a in a yeah play-off. and
00:18:06
Global Sports Podcast Network
Willis, you know, I'll get time to shine in the playoffs. Get them through and do it that way. Yeah, I get that.
00:18:11
Iain
Well, this the astounding, the more astounding than Scotland throwing it away against Greece, though, was the fact that Denmark at home managed to fall 2-1 behind against the yeah against the whipping boys of Belarus, didn't they?
00:18:27
Iain
That was Belarus' first point.
00:18:27
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:18:31
Iain
So in the in the in the group, they'd lost the previous four games. Yeah.
00:18:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, it looked terrible, hadn't it?
00:18:37
Iain
So i guess that was yeah I guess that was two against Scotland, lost against Denmark and Greece. And then they got the point. it was out of nowhere. So i think Scotland were kind of hoping that they would do well in playoffs when they went into that game against Greece, losing it.
00:18:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
Hmm.
00:18:57
Iain
I don't know. they like a be I bet they can't believe they're still in with a chance of automatic qualification. That might be enough for them.
00:19:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah
00:19:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
I think, and let's be honest, Scotland are one of those nations that when the crowd gets behind them, it can make a real difference.
00:19:06
Iain
this group was showcasing their new album me so and said that's a nice song it sounds so much similar to Tom Bell's and we found out that it was heatwave and met the heatwave years and later were on the show
00:19:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
um There's very few nations like it, really. Scotland, Ireland, they get behind, the fans get behind them. I'd say a lot better than England traditionally do. And as you can probably tell by the surname, Grahamslaw,
00:19:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
Family originates from there. I've got a few ties myself, but ah yeah I was almost favouring Denmark just for young Willis Sula. um So as you can tell, the the bonds aren't that strong, um but it it would be lovely to see Scotland, Wales, Republic of Ireland, etc.
00:19:35
Iain
And Jason was seeing me in the deep way. And that's how I met Jason 20-something years ago.
00:19:40
Global Sports Podcast Network
all in there as well as England. But at Scotland, let's talk about Wales. The post-Gareth Bale era hasn't been great for them, but Craig Bellamy is now at the helm, ex-Newcastle lad himself.
00:19:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
They're in exactly the same boat as ah Scotland, but they're level on points with North Macedonia, who will travel to Cardiff at the same time. ah North Macedonia famously knocked out Italy a few years back as well.
00:20:06
Global Sports Podcast Network
So, but it's, know, it's, it's all on Wales.
00:20:07
Iain
yeah
00:20:10
Global Sports Podcast Network
It's in Cardiff. It's a must win game. Are you impressed by what you saw of Wales and the Bellamy against England? They're all, what you've seen of them in other games as well.
00:20:19
Iain
Well, I wasn't impressed with what i saw of them against England because they were three down after 20 minutes or something, weren't they? And then it was boring because we just sort of held them at arm's length.
00:20:32
Iain
I fancy them at home against North Macedonia.
00:20:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
You have to, don't you?
00:20:36
Iain
North Macedonia, if it's a draw, North Macedonia will go through on goal difference.
00:20:40
Global Sports Podcast Network
Must have done it in a go-through.
00:20:43
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:20:44
Iain
And North Macedonia haven't lost in this group yet. So that perhaps will end up a draw and Wales will miss out.
00:20:48
Global Sports Podcast Network
Wow. didn't know that, actually.
00:20:52
Iain
But Wales could win there.
00:20:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
Ooh.
00:20:54
Iain
That's another team that can be lifted by the crowd. Early goal for Wales, René could cruise that.
00:21:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely. And I guess that means that Macedonia would have drawn twice with Belgium as well, which two fantastic results in that case.
00:21:06
Iain
Yeah.
00:21:08
Global Sports Podcast Network
um I didn't actually know that. I thought the 13 points, they must have dropped something somewhere. um Yeah, it's Wales.
00:21:15
Iain
Three wins and four draws.
00:21:16
Global Sports Podcast Network
It's a big It's a really big task then in that case. It seems like Macedonia have become quite a difficult team to beat in that case. um I haven't really seen them play England in a long time.
00:21:27
Iain
Boogie Nights, a number two hit in 1977 for Heatwave, the band that Jason Sharp was staying with before he joined the Stylistics for 15 years age.
00:21:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah I remember them being whipping boys back in the day, but knocking out Italy way back when, getting results against Belgium. Actually, North Macedonia could still top the group as well.
00:21:38
Iain
And we will be back to continue their story as our great conversation with Arian Love and Jason Sharp of the Stylistics.
00:21:40
Global Sports Podcast Network
um Just double-check there. But it would require Belgium to lose at home to Liechtenstein, who...
00:21:46
Iain
And can use next on Racist X Radio.
00:21:47
Global Sports Podcast Network
haven't scored a goal in qualifying yet.
00:21:50
Iain
A little plus you can get something for everyone with three for two across our party time range.
00:21:50
Global Sports Podcast Network
So maybe that's a bit of ah a non-starter. I don't think they'll be playing for that.
00:21:55
Iain
Barrel bands, veggie spring rolls, things in blankets and more.
00:21:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
um But yes, Wales, to be honest, I can see them grabbing a spot in the playoffs as well.
00:21:59
Iain
They're made to share. Now there's plenty more delicious things to keep the party going.
00:22:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
And I would love to see all four of the the other home nations in there.
00:22:03
Iain
A little more to value.
00:22:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
The team that's only good that haven't got in through World Cup qualifying is going to be Northern Ireland.
00:22:04
Iain
Do it for your wife. Who told you to pick bread. And instead you picked up straight your friend Simon McGill.
00:22:10
Global Sports Podcast Network
um
00:22:11
Iain
and told you to
00:22:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
Their campaign is ending as we speak right now at home at Luxembourg.
00:22:12
Iain
right
00:22:15
Global Sports Podcast Network
They haven't made it through through World Cup qualifying.
00:22:17
Iain
But now your daughter is calling because he missed football.
00:22:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
and But what they have done is they won their Nations League game.
00:22:20
Iain
That's the fourth time this month. can wave his future career goodbye.
00:22:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
Nations League group, should I say.
00:22:25
Iain
If you don't do it now, do a few.
00:22:25
Global Sports Podcast Network
And that's why they have still have the chance of getting it through.
00:22:27
Iain
Why? little Freddy. New Air, the latest custom-fit rechargeable hearing devices.
00:22:29
Global Sports Podcast Network
They're expecting a comfortable victory. As we speak, it's currently 0-0 after 30 minutes.
00:22:32
Iain
Discreet, comfortable, and smart enough to help you catch every moment.
00:22:33
Global Sports Podcast Network
um But they're actually, I think they're closing the gap on the rest of the home nations.
00:22:36
Iain
Book a free hearing test at proofhearingcare.com to the season.
00:22:39
Global Sports Podcast Network
They lost to Slovakia
Northern Ireland's Football Outlook
00:22:40
Global Sports Podcast Network
last time out, but they beat Slovakia in the first meeting, nearly got a result out of Germany.
00:22:40
Iain
I-460. Super fast, super smart. Don't frackle in tightness.
00:22:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
Is it one of those where we're going to have to stop looking at Northern Ireland as the whipping boys of the home nation and maybe oh grasp that they could actually get some shot results?
00:22:47
Iain
well hiding
00:22:53
Iain
<unk> un forgetness
00:22:57
Iain
Well, Michael, back when I was a young, a very young boy, not even a man, ah young boy, we used to play at the end of the season, the home international competition.
00:23:09
Iain
And that was England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. And Northern Ireland, England won it the most. But Northern Ireland won that once or twice because they are capable of producing a team.
00:23:23
Iain
um And that they also have a crowd. Is they still playing at Windsor Park?
00:23:29
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yes, yes they are.
00:23:31
Iain
That crowd is capable of lifting the boys in green. um So, yeah, I i get, yeah, that they have fallen back. But there's another guy with a Newcastle connection that's manager there.
00:23:48
Iain
isn't it? What's he called?
00:23:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
um
00:23:52
Iain
Just like you.
00:23:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
Northern Ireland's Michael O'Neill.
00:23:55
Iain
Yeah, he used to play for Newcastle.
00:23:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
Did he?
00:23:59
Iain
Yeah, I think so.
00:23:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
I don't actually know that.
00:24:01
Iain
I think so.
00:24:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
don't think.
00:24:02
Iain
There's a Newcastle connection with him. and ah think he's a good manager. He's been there quite a while and he's building something. ah He's scouring the reserve and youth teams of the Premier League to find some Northern Irish players.
00:24:19
Iain
and
00:24:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah
00:24:19
Iain
But yeah, so anyone could turn up as Northern Irish, can't they?
00:24:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely. And you are absolutely right.
00:24:25
Iain
On the strength of their granny.
00:24:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
You're absolutely right, by the way. Michael O'Neill, 48 games for Newcastle between 87 and 89.
00:24:30
Iain
go already yeah They to be ancient occasionally, you know.
00:24:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
Scored 15 goals before moving on to Dundee. Absolutely fantastic. um I had no idea before my time. I will say my knowledge of football before 96.
00:24:47
Iain
Back in the late eighty Back in the late 80s was when my memory worked as well. and
00:24:54
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah Well, let's hope it's still working right now. ah But yeah, you you mentioned that Northern Ireland, they are getting some good young players out of these Premier League teams.
00:25:04
Iain
when
00:25:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
It is one that you know it could lead to them growing.
00:25:06
Iain
ah you and teach like a
00:25:08
Global Sports Podcast Network
They've got a couple of
Republic of Ireland's Resilient Performances
00:25:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
idiots from Sunderland as well, but they're not going to do much there.
00:25:09
Iain
now yeahcha gate your
00:25:13
Global Sports Podcast Network
and But finally, on to the other part of Ireland, um the Republic of Ireland.
00:25:17
Iain
yeah gone he's
00:25:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
And what a story that was at the weekend, wasn't it?
00:25:21
Iain
period I know.
00:25:22
Global Sports Podcast Network
The Ronaldo fanboy that went
00:25:23
Iain
What's the name of that centre forward? Dry Parrot, otherwise known as Harry Houdini. To win those two games the way they won those two games.
00:25:29
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh, absolutely.
00:25:33
Iain
To beat Portugal. beat Portugal and the extra bonus of getting Ronaldo sent off during game. Excellent. um But yeah, to go away and win in Hungary.
00:25:46
Iain
Something from behind to win in Hungary.
00:25:48
Global Sports Podcast Network
Brilliant result.
00:25:48
Iain
that A place where England got walloped 4-1 just a few short years ago, didn't it?
00:25:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, horrible result, but this one, brilliant.
00:25:54
Iain
um Fantastic way that they have pulled those results out at the end and two snatch a playoff place. And they're a heck of a wild card if you're going to have to try and play a playoff.
00:26:07
Iain
I wouldn't fancy being ah Denmark, for example, getting to play a two-leg game against the Republic of Ireland to get into the World Cup, I think that they would they wouldn't be relishing that.
00:26:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
No, absolutely. The new um the new manager, ah believe he's one of, if not the first, non-Irish manager to manage them. um And Icelandic or Finnish?
00:26:34
Iain
and that
00:26:34
Global Sports Podcast Network
That's really embarrassing.
00:26:35
Iain
ah great
00:26:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
I can't remember. but
00:26:36
Iain
Icelandic, Icelandic, Hermitsyn, Hermitsyn, I think, something like that.
00:26:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
and Icelandic.
00:26:40
Global Sports Podcast Network
said one
00:26:40
Iain
By the way, Jack Charlton wasn't Irish either, mate.
00:26:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
um
00:26:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah said oneoff
00:26:49
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah knew there was i thought there was another one, to be fair, but I couldn't think off the top my head who it was.
00:26:52
Iain
That's him.
00:26:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
And if you'd said Jack Charlton managed Ireland, I probably would have went, eh? I had a feeling there'd be another one somewhere.
00:26:59
Iain
yeah how to They had an old jed and old German before this bloke as well, load didn't they?
00:27:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
I can't remember off the top of my head.
00:27:08
Iain
seventy s He an old German player. um What's he called? I'm going to get his name before you've got a chance to look at it up. I think it begins with an O.
00:27:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
I think you might be looking at the wrong island.
00:27:22
Iain
That's who I'm thinking of,
00:27:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah It was John O'Shea and Stephen Kenny before and this one. Then Mick McCarthy, Martin O'Neill, Noel King, and Giovanni Trappatoni, which is a blast from past.
00:27:28
Iain
the old Italian, not German. That's who I'm thinking of. and you know and i tell them that and yeah' sure i'm thinking of the old italian not german
00:27:39
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:27:40
Iain
so i'm thinking off
00:27:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
It's a very, very... It's a very, very unique, actually, set of managers there.
00:27:46
Iain
down i mean
00:27:47
Global Sports Podcast Network
um
00:27:47
Iain
just
00:27:48
Global Sports Podcast Network
But it's one of those, yeah, Helmier Hegrimsen.
00:27:50
Iain
So our popularity
00:27:50
Global Sports Podcast Network
Obviously, um he came in for the game, but I think it was just before they played England. And Ireland did look pretty dire. um But now they look like a team with some resilience behind them.
00:27:59
Iain
But we had competition all coming up. Like we called Blue Magic, and they're from Philadelphia.
00:28:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
And as you mentioned, um with Denmark, etc., going into the playoffs, you're not going to want to play a team with that kind of resilience because it's just scary.
00:28:07
Iain
And I remember one before there were even a group called themselves Blue Magic, the lead singer.
00:28:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
They could come back at any point. It's like um when Rangers were in the Europa League, every single round, they were the favourites to get beat.
00:28:17
Iain
I was at a show that Russell got sick and he came to me and he said, well, know, I can sing Russell Park.
00:28:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
um And then they got the final, obviously lost on penalties to Eintracht Frankfurt.
00:28:24
Iain
And that's because, you know, you can't sing Russell Park.
00:28:25
Global Sports Podcast Network
um But that kind of resilience can get you so far.
00:28:29
Iain
He may think you can sing Russell Park, but, you know, you can't sing his Park.
00:28:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
It's truly astounding, actually.
00:28:33
Iain
When do they do the playoffs still, Michael? Do they wait till March?
00:28:37
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yes, I believe so.
00:28:38
Iain
So that's the shame, isn't it? All of this momentum that teams like Scotland will have if they, or they won't be playing in it, will they? If they've, But the momentum that they build up from having a good set of results to actually snatch something is lost if they've got to wait until March to play the playoffs.
00:28:48
Global Sports Podcast Network
If they go through, yeah.
00:28:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:28:59
Iain
and That said, you really don't want another extension to this international break to play the playoffs now, though.
00:29:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, could you imagine if we had one in December? I think I'd cry.
00:29:10
Iain
yeah
00:29:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
But we know they're going to be in the playoffs. We know they've got, well, we believe they're going to start off with a home game.
00:29:16
Iain
temptations where you guys were kind of had a lot of respect for.
00:29:18
Global Sports Podcast Network
um That is to be confirmed, though, depending results elsewhere. But what isn't to be confirmed elsewhere is just how good of a platform for streaming and podcasting Zencaster is.
00:29:27
Iain
So, yeah, I any real truth of any sense wanted to be like temptation.
00:29:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
Jesse, take it away, mate.
00:29:43
Iain
Oh, they're both afraid.
00:30:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
Right. Let's bring it home. We've spoken about the rest of the home nation.
00:30:10
Iain
Fantastic. Firstly, Michael, fantastic link into the Zencastrad word. I appreciated it.
00:30:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
Thank you very much. ah Now I've got a link back to Newcastle United.
00:30:23
Iain
Sorry.
00:30:27
Iain
Right.
00:30:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
Great stuff. oh Right, let's bring it home. Newcastle, we've got a pretty interesting squad in regards to international talent. um If this was six months earlier, we'd be talking about how a certain Swede has somehow not managed to get to the World Cup. Obviously, they'll be in the playoffs as well.
00:30:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
and But we're going to be talking about a certain German who scored the opening goal to ensure Germany got there tonight.
00:30:50
Iain
1973.
00:30:50
Iain
Papa was a rolling stone. Another huge hit for The Temptations, influencing every up-and-coming male group in America and beyond, including our special guest tonight, the stylistics, who would burst onto the scene themselves just one year later.
00:30:54
Global Sports Podcast Network
And I'm saying that with 60 minutes left because Germany have 3-0 up, as I'm saying this. So, I'm fairly confident that's not going to blow up in my face. But... We'll start off with the two Germans.
00:31:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
Nick Vollamada is obviously the standout striker.
00:31:07
Iain
So let's talk about some of your songs specifically now.
00:31:07
Global Sports Podcast Network
He started getting goals for Germany. Let's be honest, he's on the plane.
00:31:10
Iain
And I'm not sure if it's down to my mom's stylistics record collection that I have every lyric still very firmly imprinted in brain.
00:31:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
But the player that might not be on the plane, and there's little bit there a bit of controversy about it, he has just returned to the squad for the first time in over two years.
00:31:20
Iain
And so distinctive and memorable was that voice of Russell Watkins.
00:31:21
Global Sports Podcast Network
Malik Chau, last week he had his first game for Germany in a very, very long time.
00:31:24
Iain
Although, of course, Arian, you sang co-league on a huge hit.
00:31:27
Global Sports Podcast Network
How have you rated him in a Toon shirt so far out this season?
00:31:27
Iain
You make me feel brand new, which got to number two here in the UK. Very, very, very pleasantly surprised with how quickly he has formed a partnership with Sven Bokman.
00:31:40
Iain
How calm and assured on the ball he is. and know we saw him almost get sent off in one game with what looked like to be a reckless tackle but I think on that game I said the ball went under his foot and it looked like a bad tackle but it was just because he thought he had the control of the ball ah anyway i gave i I gave him a pass on that other than that I think he's been excellent he's fabulous at bringing the ball out of his feet he's got a great range of passing um looks good in the air very quick and
00:32:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:32:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
We have...
00:32:15
Iain
getting back and doing some amazing blocks. I think he's a fat player. And if he keeps his place in Newcastle's side, and I think he will, I think that he will only cement his place in the German team.
00:32:30
Iain
They don't seem to have any anyone other than a few ageing second choices to battle against him, do they?
00:32:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely.
00:32:38
Iain
The players that used to be sitting on their on the German bench that are now playing in the German team.
00:32:38
Global Sports Podcast Network
No, it's one of those ways.
00:32:43
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, he's the young standout, definitely.
00:32:44
Iain
Schlotterbeck and yeah that was produced by
00:32:47
Global Sports Podcast Network
He's absolutely the young standout. And I think he'll be you'll be a mainstay for Germany for years to come if he's been player if he plays the way he does for Newcastle.
00:32:52
Iain
president's and vice president of yeah
00:32:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
um There's a few players that are pretty much guaranteed to be on the plane.
00:32:55
Iain
um
00:32:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah Bruno Gamares, Ancelotti's acknowledged that Bruno's one of his most important players.
00:33:02
Iain
yeah
00:33:06
Global Sports Podcast Network
Sandro will be if Italy qualify. so Italy would still play him in centre midfield if he had his legs removed, so he's guaranteed. Johan Wiss has Congo knocked out Nigeria last night in what was a big shock, so he'll be there as well.
00:33:21
Global Sports Podcast Network
um the only The only one that's... may Well, there's only one player that's really been dropped...
00:33:24
Iain
contract and I came hear anything was produced by Graham.
00:33:27
Global Sports Podcast Network
on the Newcastle side and that was Joe Linton he was dropped for the most recent round of fixtures not because of injury just because of his performances now centre midfield is where the Brazilian press think they're weakest they think their midfield is terrible and that is including Bruno Gamares which to me is mental do you see Joe Linton getting back into the team and do you think his drop and was fair based on those Newcastle United performances this season
00:33:31
Iain
My mom and I were completely by the tradition of the same thing. But we did a lot of like, obviously, behind me.
00:33:44
Iain
It was like we did one of the first videos I was here on a rural Odee East College. Yeah, but you know, that song I think I'm very quick to react to Joe Linton's performance dropping off at Newcastle.
00:34:03
Iain
and But Joe Linton hasn't been on it the way we're used to him being on it for the previous three years, that's for sure.
00:34:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:34:12
Iain
I think his position in the Newcastle squad is up for grabs.
00:34:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
Absolutely.
00:34:18
Iain
I'd love to see Ramsey giving a good run there, see if he's as good as we think he is.
00:34:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. I agree. I think he's brilliant.
00:34:25
Iain
Maybe even hits Joe Linton's position that Miley would take over.
00:34:32
Iain
If we do splash the cash in January, could be where Elliot Anderson takes over as a first-team player.
00:34:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
oh
00:34:39
Global Sports Podcast Network
I imagine that Elliot Arneson comes back. We'd probably still play him as fifth choice. ah He's in behind Joe Willock.
00:34:45
Iain
tell yeah No, no. think Joe Linton has...
00:34:49
Global Sports Podcast Network
That would be a story, wouldn't it?
00:34:51
Iain
i think joe i think joelyden has badly out of form for some reason now I know he got injured didn't he um he's susceptible to that can remember him missing in the second half of the season when he got injured in January against Sunderland in the f FA Cup he missed the last half of that season
00:34:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
Newcastle United Players' World Cup Prospects
00:35:10
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:35:11
Iain
and he is getting on now 29 so it may be that all of these uh rough and tumble that he's enjoyed so much is catching up with him um
00:35:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
Hinder's a late stage of his career. It would make sense.
00:35:23
Iain
Love to see. It depends entirely on his form, winning his place back for Newcastle and getting back to some of the heights that we know he can achieve as to whether Ancelotti...
00:35:25
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. 100%.
00:35:33
Iain
Ancelotti, you'll be watching him every week, though, won't you, on the Premier League highlights and that.
00:35:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
and
00:35:38
Iain
he'll You'll know how he is doing....
00:35:40
Global Sports Podcast Network
Absolutely. I think the only one, I mean, there's obviously Sven Bottman for Netherlands as well, and but I want to get on to England. We have about 10, 15 English players in the squad, but how many do you think will make Thomas Tuchel's 25?
00:35:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
Okay. That's
00:35:59
Iain
Dan Byrne will.
00:36:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
one. one
00:36:04
Iain
um yeah I can't count Elliot Anderson anymore, can I?
00:36:07
Global Sports Podcast Network
Nope. I haven't planned yet.
00:36:08
Iain
I would say that um Anthony Gordon was a dead cert up until a few weeks ago.
00:36:16
Iain
whether Well, i think Rashford and Ezey He was way ahead of those the last the last round of the last international break.
00:36:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm.
00:36:25
Iain
I think those two have both done very, very well. So I think he's got a battle to do and that means finding his form for Newcastle between now and March.
00:36:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
That has been fantastic.
00:36:35
Iain
um
00:36:36
Iain
but I think Lewis Hall will get in.
00:36:39
Global Sports Podcast Network
Okay, that's two.
00:36:40
Iain
I think Tino Livramento will get in.
00:36:43
Global Sports Podcast Network
Three, okay.
00:36:46
Iain
um And you know what?
00:36:50
Global Sports Podcast Network
Ooh.
00:36:50
Iain
Pope will play brilliantly. Then he'll be on the plane or he'll be dislodged by Ramsdale. And Ramsdale, I think, is the second best goalkeeper after Pickford for England.
00:37:04
Iain
So my wild card would be Ramsdale because Ramsdale will come in for Pope on Saturday and play the rest play the rest of the season for Newcastle and would have to take him.
00:37:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
Ooh, big.
00:37:13
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:37:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh, big call. I love it. I love that. And to be honest, it wouldn't surprise me if Ramsdale does come in.
00:37:22
Iain
It's there in the back of my mind that I don't dwell with.
00:37:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
Obviously, Nick Pope's only got a concussion, and but it's one of those where you take him out the firing line um and you know yeah give a goalkeeper who has been player of the season at too ah but three clubs that he's been at in the last few seasons and give him a chance at Newcastle to do exactly the same.
00:37:26
Iain
I don't say, well, I'm in love with the style of sex. If I try to get into a theater or a club here in Philadelphia, I don't go there and say, well, I'm in love with the style sex.
00:37:38
Iain
You know, I've never done that. I feel strange to even.
00:37:43
Global Sports Podcast Network
So if he does, let's be honest, you put in a player of the season performance at Newcastle United and
00:37:44
Iain
feel that comfortable where I am.
00:37:48
Global Sports Podcast Network
you probably are getting into that England squad when you know the the opposition is, to be fair, Dean Henderson I really like as well.
00:37:50
Iain
plus t-shirt in the street.
00:37:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
But then after him, it's James Trafford who can't get a game at Manchester City.
00:38:00
Iain
You
00:38:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
And then you look at maybe Sam Johnston as well. So one of those two, definitely getting.
00:38:04
Iain
know, that's crazy or just... just... The third goalkeeping slot is up for grabs.
00:38:06
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:38:08
Iain
I mean, it must be. and Nick Pope, before he banged his head, Nick Pope was going to be in that squad.
00:38:13
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:38:14
Iain
Wasn't he? So, James Trafford lost it because he hasn't he hasn't played. since he signed for Man City, virtually, or certainly since Donnarumma signed for Man City, he's not going to play enough to go.
00:38:26
Iain
So that third goalkeeper spot is up. um And I think Ramsdale, it might be Ramsdale and Pope that go with Pickford if Henderson breaks a finger or something.
00:38:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
Could well be.
00:38:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah I'd love to see both them there. um It's just one of those. So you do you do have to think for James Trafford, like if he hadn't chose Manchester City and he had chose Newcastle,
00:38:48
Iain
And my answer was, you fluttered up.
00:38:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
he'd probably be England number two come the World Cup.
00:38:53
Iain
I was there. You had more girlfriends.
00:38:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
I don't think he dislodges Pickford, but he'd certainly be England number one in the future.
00:38:56
Iain
I couldn't guess what a better work we had to do with you.
00:39:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
um But that wraps up our deep dive into the World Cup qualification.
00:39:05
Iain
I'm not a good friend.
00:39:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
England was steady. The home nations are still battling and Newcastle, as always, have a growing list of international talent.
00:39:09
Iain
I'll just feel all of that.
00:39:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
I could have mentioned Emile Craft as well, but Sweden are still a way away. ah Thanks to the terrible performance of the third striker.
00:39:19
Iain
and and And Anthony Alanga you forgot about as well.
00:39:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, but he wasn't good either, so I wanted to avoid talking about him.
00:39:29
Iain
What are the chances of Alex Murphy getting in for Ireland?
00:39:29
Global Sports Podcast Network
he
00:39:33
Global Sports Podcast Network
To be honest, probably not far off.
00:39:33
Iain
Must be close.
00:39:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah But it's a grow as we say, it's a growing list of international talent. Some have done a little better than others. But Ian, it's always a pleasure. Thank you very much for joining me.
00:39:47
Global Sports Podcast Network
And to everyone listening, thank you for joining us.
00:39:47
Iain
Thank you for having us.
00:39:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
And if you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, drop a rating, five stars only, and send in your questions for, well, whenever you want to answer them.
00:39:54
Iain
Thank you.
00:40:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
Cheers. See you later.