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USG v Toon - CL Round 2 Preview
13 Plays17 hours ago
Jo hosts Kev for a preview of the USG match - Round 2 of the CL league phase
USG have been brilliant recently so we agree this will be a far from easy game, however will always remain positive.
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Transcript
00:00:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
That's the wrong thing, isn't it?
Introduction and Technical Glitch
00:00:15
Global Sports Podcast Network
Hello and welcome to the GSPN Newcastle United podcast. Apologies for talking over that wonderful intro, but I thought clicked the wrong button, so sorry about that. um I've been on for a while. What are you going to do As you anyone that listens regularly will know, that pretty much Michael and Ian are holding down the fort.
00:00:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
Little cameos from the likes of me and also who I'm with tonight. So I'll bring you straight in. Kev, how you doing, dude?
00:00:36
KEV
Oh, loving life. Happy to be back. To be fair, it's mental, right? We were having a chat before we started clicking record. We're really calm, really chill. It's that time of evening where we're just like, oh, everything's all right.
00:00:48
KEV
And then you play the intro and I'm like, whoa,
Previewing the USG Game
00:00:50
Global Sports Podcast Network
Let's go!
00:00:50
KEV
time to party.
00:00:54
Global Sports Podcast Network
Let's talk some soccer. if Oh, my dear God.
00:00:56
KEV
or
00:00:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
um Right. Anyway, all jokes aside, we're here to talk about tomorrow night's Oton Nights, as anyone's listening to listen and do it, obviously, um USG game. And could be an interesting one.
00:01:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
I'll be honest. I don't know a lot about USG. So trying to cram some information in before that. But what I do know is they're on a canny run of in terms of form in terms of their wins. And then I read even something beyond their initial form of the last five ish games. I've got like 21 out of 26 games won or something.
00:01:25
KEV
Mm-hmm.
00:01:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
So these guys aren't to be sniffed at, to be fair. I think it's just because we don't know a lot about them does not mean it's going to be a walk in the park at all. um So it should be pretty high-tempo game from what I've read about them and stuff like that. So I'm not going to lie, I'm not going to go into a load of their players because I don't know any of their players, so I am purely going to talk about their results and their form and what they did in the first round of the Champions League and stuff like that. But Kev, I suppose I'll set you off because otherwise I'll just start rambling anyway.
00:01:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
what's What's your general thoughts just initially on like tonight's game, as we'll we'll call it, really?
USG's Rise and Strengths
00:01:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
How are you feeling about it, really?
00:01:57
KEV
Tough. Very tough game. I mean, people are saying, obviously, they haven't heard of USG and stuff like that, but i mean, you have a good right. Only 10 years ago, we were in the third division. We got promoted from a third division 10 years ago, only because two clubs didn't have a license to play in a second division, right?
00:02:12
KEV
So, that's why we've never heard of them.
00:02:13
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mental...
00:02:14
KEV
However, fast forward many years, Tony Bloom, ex-Brighton owner, pumped a lot of money into them and became quite successful. And then, The guy who was kind of helping them fund it took over very recently. And they have just went from strength to strength. An incredible model.
00:02:28
KEV
and Brilliant home record. One of the last four in a row would be PSV on the opening day of the Champions League away from home in Holland.
00:02:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yep. Yeah.
00:02:37
KEV
and And they are probably stronger than, I mean, let's let's be honest, right? If you think of playing a Belgian team in the Champions League, you think Anderlecht, maybe St-Liege, Club Bruges, Genk were in there.
00:02:46
Global Sports Podcast Network
Hmm.
00:02:49
KEV
This current USG team are better than all of them in the last 10 years in terms of right now, in terms of how we are.
00:02:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah
00:02:54
KEV
Two very physical strikers, um which I think might help us in a way with having Byrne and maybe Valtomar. We might be able to cope with them a little bit better than maybe some other teams. They might catch teams by surprise, but might struggle to do it against the Premier League team.
00:03:09
KEV
We're used to a physicality. We're used to a big strikers. So that might help us. But... Not an easy game. Very tough. It's polar opposites in terms the start of the season. They've started off fantastically well.
00:03:21
KEV
and' Only conceded four goals in nine games. and Whereas, you know, we're defensively okay, but we've had a bit of a stuttering start. A very tough start, granted.
00:03:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:03:29
KEV
But, yeah, this is going to be really interesting. I think if we get a win, I'll be buzzing any win. 1-0, 2-1, scrappy.
00:03:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh, God, yeah.
00:03:37
KEV
Anything will do. So, very tough, very tough. I will add, I do quite like them. you know when you Do you know when you do research on a team?
00:03:43
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:03:44
KEV
They're like supporters of working class from a Southern District of Brussels, like the proper like a proper team. And then we've got, yeah, and it's nice to see.
00:03:49
Global Sports Podcast Network
Proper football team. i like that, yeah.
00:03:52
KEV
So I quite like them. I won't like them if they beat us. But if I want to have an extra fan, if they let us have a win here, right, I'll follow them and I'll like them for the rest of my time.
00:03:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
No.
00:04:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
Right.
00:04:02
KEV
But yeah, don't beat us, please, because this is going to be a tough game.
00:04:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
I like it. Yeah, true. I'll tell you what, if we can't get a result against them, it's going to make us feel even better about playing PSV. Because like you said, they beat them 3-1. I mean, and PSV literally just scored at the end of the game anyway. So it looked like a very convincing win um for USG as well. And for what I've seen of them, because watched the highlights of that game, again, just trying to keep up, especially on the teams that were playing, that they look they look decent, man.
00:04:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
So it is going to be an interesting game tomorrow night. Or tonight, sorry. I'll have to keep referring to.
00:04:31
KEV
They did what we couldn't do.
00:04:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
Hmm.
00:04:32
KEV
So when we got promoted with Keegan and we were like all of a sudden pushing to try and win the league, they did that. They only came up about two or three seasons ago. And the first game back would be Anderlecht and then there'd be Club Bruges about two and everyone was like, whoa, what's happening here?
00:04:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:04:46
KEV
So again, the similarities are big, m but i just, I think it's a Newcastle fans worth, actually it's not, it's a Kev's worst nightmare because Newcastle fans will underestimate this team And if we don't get the win, there will be absolute meltdown on social media and to stay off it for three or four days until we beat Forrest at home.
00:04:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, they will.
00:05:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
This is very true. um I mean, I've i been trying to stay off social media because you know what I'm like, I'm very reactionary person. And I do like, unfortunately, I'm very easily goaded.
00:05:11
KEV
Never. You don't say.
00:05:13
Global Sports Podcast Network
I know, I know, but sometimes I feel like telling the idiots that they're idiots.
00:05:14
KEV
Oh.
00:05:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
um but I can't help myself.
00:05:19
KEV
A-mojo.
00:05:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
I know, I know, but yeah, you've got to fight back, haven't you really? But um no, like all jokes aside, I know what you mean, because there's been there's been a bit of talk about beating them, but what I have seen on social media is bit of 50-50 I'll be honest I have seen a lot of people maybe down on it but ah then again it goes back to what we said before this pod started I think wait us two in particular after what we've just talked about I probably feel a little bit more positive about the start the season as well like I'm not saying it's been an amazing start but it hasn't been as tragic as some people are making out like I sometimes I'm like am I i'm not watching the same games as you guys
Newcastle's Season Challenges
00:05:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
was I at the same game as you like
00:05:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
um I just don't see the travesty. um And I get that. I do. I get it. I get it. But, like, I don't know what it is at the minute. i don't know whether I'm just getting a bit more Kev-like or something. But, honestly, I'm just...
00:05:57
KEV
So I feel all the time.
00:06:08
KEV
Oh, maybe I'm rubbing off. Get in.
00:06:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah no I know. I know. I'm just... I'm baffled by the whole Arsenal game, the negativity around that. I just don't think we were horrible, as I've seen some people saying. Or... anyway i'd say i'm not going to go too much into that because it's all about the usg game and look if we come out strong we'll talk about it in the kind of second half this part about how we might feel like we might line up and stuff like that but You know, it's going to click eventually. I know haven't quite got it, but again, let's go back to what happened in the summer.
00:06:37
Global Sports Podcast Network
It was a bit of a tragic summer until the last couple of weeks, wasn't it? So we've now got this team who are trying to kind of gel and any new guys that were brought in.
00:06:41
KEV
you
00:06:44
Global Sports Podcast Network
I mean, Christ, some of them are injured already. ah So Vissa hasn't even got a game yet. and Ramsey's out injured already. So it's not even like the new guys have really fully settled in. And I don't know. Yeah, all right. We are just trying to, we haven't been quite right going forward.
00:07:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
But it'll settle. I honestly strongly believe it'll settle. And i i I don't know. I just don't want to give up on a season when we are not even in October yet. All right, it's October when you're listening. I know, people. But it's September well-recording.
00:07:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
So that my point is, like when we're like, what, a month and a half into the season? I just, I don't know. I've seen some people almost writing it off, and it's just ridiculous. But anyway, like you say, Kev, isn't it? That's Toon fans for you.
00:07:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
so
00:07:23
KEV
Oh, why?
00:07:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
What are you going to um I'll tell you what, I will play the um wonderful Ken and his Dals of Torns now. We'll come back, we'll talk about lineups and stuff like that, or if you've got anything else to say about USG, we'll cover that off then.
00:08:15
Global Sports Podcast Network
See, Ken would fit in quite well with how we're feeling tonight. We're kind of chill, aren't we?
00:08:18
KEV
You would. Nice and chill.
00:08:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
Ken's chill.
00:08:20
KEV
but
00:08:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
it' He's good.
00:08:21
KEV
I'm always chill.
00:08:21
Global Sports Podcast Network
And you're always chill. I'm just a bit more chill than I normally am. I don't know. I just can't be bothered to be hyped up right now. I'm just not in the mood to be.
00:08:28
KEV
Too much going on.
00:08:29
Global Sports Podcast Network
um It's too much going on, Kev. Exactly. Life's busy, man. um But yeah, right. I'll tell you all. Let's cut to how we might think of my line-up. Because I'm not going to lie. don't think I've got much else I can say about USG apart from, yeah, we agree it's not going a pushover game.
00:08:43
Global Sports Podcast Network
Simple as that. um So, taking the line-ups here from the Arsenal game, do you see many changes in that one? Do you think that one might change formation? Do you think, I don't know, would you drop anyone personally? do you You know, some people are saying it was well what it was one of the worst games I've played.
00:09:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mental, personally, leave mind. um It was such a bad game. Based on that, or based on what you saw and how we feel about the game, would you personally drop anyone or would you switch the formation at all? like If you were Eddie, what would you do, Kev?
00:09:13
Global Sports Podcast Network
Go on, be Eddie.
00:09:13
KEV
oh Christ. what ah I wish I was Eddie. wish I was Eddie. ah wish i was at and I think it's so difficult because, I mean, we... we So we had four at the back. but Let's start with Arsenal games, mental in itself.
00:09:26
KEV
We had four. and We went to a five, obviously, when Tino came off, which was just the game changer for me. um
00:09:32
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm.
00:09:33
KEV
ah don't think we'll go five at the back, but it is worth taking note of kind of how they line up. They pick like a 3-4-1-2, but let's be honest, it's a 5-3-2. Yeah.
00:09:44
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm.
00:09:46
KEV
um So it's it's it's going to be very difficult to kind of do we count them and go five at the back against five at the back then rely on us to be better individually?
00:09:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm.
00:09:56
KEV
Or do we just, is this like a a refresh point for Eddie Howe now? The tough fixtures are kind of coming to an end in terms of that ridiculously difficult start in August and September.
00:10:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. 100%.
00:10:06
KEV
Now we go back to the Trident Test at 4-3-3, high press, and we we see what we can do. We see if we can kind of get it all clicking with the new elements of the team. and Personally, if it was me, I'd probably go 4-3-3.
00:10:18
KEV
I would stick with the midfield, Joe, Bruno and Tenardi. I think that's when they're on it and when they're functioning right, it's the best midfield. I think Valtemar has to start. I think, again, we've a lot of pressure on him at the minute in terms of he's the only one contributing to goals.
00:10:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
remember so yeah
00:10:33
KEV
I know Gordon scored against Barca, but he needs more help than just one goal. oh
00:10:38
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:10:39
KEV
I think Murphy's got stay in just because, again, he's got the experience of these big games. He's played in them before. Alanga hasn't quite hit the ground running. and But it's for defence, isn't it?
00:10:47
Global Sports Podcast Network
Nope.
00:10:48
KEV
Let's be honest. that's How do we pick the defence?
00:10:50
Global Sports Podcast Network
I know.
00:10:51
KEV
Malik Chau was outstanding against Arsenal.
00:10:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
He has to stay in, in my opinion.
00:10:54
KEV
and Fabian Chau is back. And for me, i think
Squad Changes and Rumors
00:10:58
KEV
Fabian Chau, this season's only, when he's been on the pitch, only conceded two league goals. in four five games.
00:11:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
know.
00:11:04
KEV
So Shaw is clearly very, very influential in terms of plays. Me personally, if I was Eddie Howe, I would see Shaw and Chow together because ah imagine being on the ball there.
00:11:15
KEV
But this is my typical Newcastle hat thing and let's get two Philip Albers and just score worldies from the back.
00:11:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
School for it. Yeah.
00:11:21
KEV
and But it would be harsh to drop down, boom wouldn't it? So but that's where the discussion is for me.
00:11:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:11:27
KEV
I couldn't predict it if I was going to predict it. Probably go Berlingshaw. Tried and tested at the elite level. Harsh on Chow, but do you keep Chow for Forrest at home?
00:11:33
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:11:35
KEV
I don't know. and Tino isn't playing. He's out. Trippier comes back in for me because, again, and experience, big games. Hasn't had his best start of season, but let's to face it, he's class, he's quality.
00:11:50
KEV
The left-back position, is Lewis Hall fit?
00:11:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
Well, there's big talk around Hall. I don't know where it's came from or whether it's just social media rumours. Have you heard the mad rumours about Hall, by the way?
00:12:01
KEV
I have not.
00:12:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
And what he might have been doing at the club?
00:12:04
KEV
What was he doing at the club?
00:12:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
I can't see it. now ah You know, when you look at someone, you think, no, not you, not you, Hall. Surely not.
00:12:09
KEV
What's he doing?
00:12:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
So there's mad rumours. that he's slept with or done something with one of the other players or staffs or someone's wife or something. ah Exactly right. So I don't know if this is just something that someone's completely made up.
00:12:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
But when I heard it, I was like, nah, come on.
00:12:24
KEV
Tindall's took him under his wing.
00:12:25
KEV
Tindall's got his arm around Lewis Hall.
00:12:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
I'm kidding. I was like, Lewis Hall.
00:12:28
KEV
He said, come here, son, I'll show you the ropes.
00:12:29
Global Sports Podcast Network
No, man. was like, no, man.
00:12:31
KEV
Oh my goodness gracious me.
00:12:33
Global Sports Podcast Network
I see him as a mini Eddie Howell. Like, I just, I don't know. I kind of get away with that.
00:12:38
KEV
I very much doubt that's true.
00:12:38
Global Sports Podcast Network
so
00:12:39
KEV
I think that's just somebody wanting to spread something.
00:12:40
Global Sports Podcast Network
Surely not, man, I know. But I wonder if it just stemmed from the fact that he obviously wasn't in the squad at all for Arsenal, if you know what i mean.
00:12:49
KEV
Yeah. Yeah, I think...
00:12:50
Global Sports Podcast Network
but Someone's then just stirring the pot sort of thing. um But if he isn't, why wasn't he? For him then to be able to start against USG would but be my only question.
00:13:01
KEV
Well, we think, I've um i've i've just seen the House press conference has said that he hopes Lewis Hall is available. and The reason he was out the squad was a little bit of fatigue in his body. um
00:13:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
alright
00:13:12
KEV
So it was, you know, he has had a long time off. He then has kind of been in and out.
00:13:15
Global Sports Podcast Network
True.
00:13:15
KEV
He hasn't played a lot of minutes, but you don't know what's going on in trading and stuff like that. So that's probably more realistic when Tyndall taking him under his wing and he's making his way around everybody and anybody.
00:13:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. It'd
00:13:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
be funny though, wasn't it? Oh, God.
00:13:26
KEV
I kind of want that to be true, if I'm honest.
00:13:27
Global Sports Podcast Network
i No.
00:13:27
KEV
It would make him more of a legend, wouldn't it?
00:13:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
Honestly, when I heard I was like, surely not, man.
00:13:29
KEV
I think. It wouldn't make him more of a legend.
00:13:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
Lewis Hall, of all people.
00:13:32
KEV
Very respectful.
00:13:32
Global Sports Podcast Network
Let's hope
00:13:34
KEV
But yeah, I think Hall should be fit. So let's go Hall left-back, Trippie right-back.
00:13:38
Global Sports Podcast Network
but talk Trips are going to be right.
00:13:39
KEV
Let's go Bernshah centre-halves. Pope goalkeeper. I'd like to see Ramsdale. I mean, it's not because Pope of Arsenal, by the way.
00:13:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
I know.
00:13:47
KEV
Not because of Pope against Arsenal. I know he made a mistake.
00:13:49
Global Sports Podcast Network
Pope was brilliant against Arsenal.
00:13:51
KEV
He was fantastic.
00:13:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh, come on. it But he also...
00:13:52
KEV
He was amazing.
00:13:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
We would have lost to Arsenal, by the way, by a good five goals it wasn't for Pope.
00:13:57
KEV
Oh, 100%. He was amazing. I'm not saying don't play Pope for that reason.
00:13:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:14:00
KEV
I'm saying, again, Ramsdale, I like him with his feet.
00:14:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:14:03
KEV
And I also think the best teams, don't they? Like when Liverpool last season had Keller for the Cups in Europe at times with Alisson and Goldman.
00:14:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:14:14
KEV
City play Ortega in the Champions League and used to play Edison in the league. Now we've done a rummer. I think it's maybe time we start doing that because Pope will get injured.
00:14:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, yeah.
00:14:24
KEV
He's missed, what, something like 30 games over the last two seasons.
00:14:27
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yep.
00:14:28
KEV
Can we protect Pope a little bit? Can we give Ramsdale a run out?
00:14:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:14:31
KEV
He's played Champions League football before. So not because, I'm not saying Ramsdale because of Pope's kind of criticism for Arsenal where I think was unwarranted because he's pulled off five worldly saves.
00:14:39
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, yeah. I get that. Just a rotation thing.
00:14:43
KEV
But let's start rotating. We've been saying for ages, haven't we?
00:14:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm.
00:14:46
KEV
Can we have a squad to rotate? it I think when Ramsey and Wieser were back, we could see a Tenaglia or Joe dropout, but I think for this game, it's really important to get some points on the board i the Champions League group.
00:14:49
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:14:55
KEV
and
00:14:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
but
00:14:56
KEV
So, yeah, I think the normal back four, I think the normal midfield three, and I think it's probably going to be Gordon, Murphy and Valtemar, is my prediction, back to Yep.
00:15:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
So pretty much the same middle and front really, isn't it, as the Arsenal game?
00:15:05
KEV
Hmm.
00:15:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
I'll agree with you. I reckon that's exactly how he'll play. If Hall really is fine, he's going to be left. Trippier is 100% going to be on the right, I would say. Don't even think there's a competition there. And Chow, it is a shame for him, but yeah, again, we're going back to the rotation thing anyway, aren't we?
00:15:23
KEV
you
00:15:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
These guys will need a rest. We've got Forrest at the weekend again.
00:15:25
KEV
three
00:15:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
he He can come back in for that sort of thing.
00:15:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
um
00:15:28
KEV
could play tail right back and triple your left back ciao
00:15:32
Global Sports Podcast Network
You could, but I bet he doesn't. Well, unless Hall's out, you will, if you know what i mean. there's There's options, but I reckon if Hall's out, I reckon you'll play burn left.
00:15:40
KEV
Byrne left back.
00:15:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
I don't know.
00:15:41
KEV
I thought Byrne did well against Saka.
00:15:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, just written up.
00:15:42
KEV
Again, he was getting quite a bit of stick, but it's it's it's difficult minute.
00:15:43
Global Sports Podcast Network
He did? ah I've got no fault with burn. I'm happy with him now. I'm fine.
00:15:47
KEV
I think what's tough for Howe, and I think, that I'm going to go off on not one, but I just think what's really important for Newcastle at the minute is we are now back in a transitional phase is because we have a new type of striker, so we have to learn how to play with him.
00:16:01
KEV
We want to get Alanga in.
00:16:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm.
00:16:02
KEV
We have to learn how to play it with him because, let's face Alanga previously was a counter-attacking player. I think the issue for us is if we do get in good positions in the game, we now need kind of a second phase back of plan, which I think is why Valtemar eventually might play behind Wieser.
00:16:16
KEV
All right, because we need to look after the ball a little bit better.
00:16:16
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. Yeah.
00:16:18
KEV
You see Manchester City and Liverpool do it all the time. We get one or two nil up and we just dominate the ball. I've never seen Newcastle do that in my lifetime, ever.
00:16:25
Global Sports Podcast Network
no
00:16:27
KEV
So we've got the midfielders to do it, I think. I think Tonali and Bruno are good enough on the ball. I think Sean Chau are good enough on the ball. Can we get two up? Can we dominate the ball? Can we give ourselves a rest and just make them do all the running?
00:16:39
KEV
Because again, Arsenal, we got ahead and we thought we need a rest.
00:16:39
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah
00:16:42
KEV
We sat deep because we didn't back ourselves to hold the ball. So I think that's where a transition period is. I think how eventually we'll want to be a team who can hold the ball when we are ahead rather than have to sit deep every time.
00:16:53
KEV
and
00:16:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:16:54
KEV
But I guess what's really, really tempting for Newcastle is when you are ahead and you can sit deep, you've got Alanga and Gordon. He could kill teams on the break if we get it right.
00:17:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:17:03
KEV
But it's just learning how to play with being Nick.
00:17:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:17:05
KEV
And I think he's done fantastically well to adapt. Nobody's talking about him, which I find mental. Sesco hasn't adapted.
00:17:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
Good.
00:17:11
KEV
um Who's the other one we missed out on? Loads of them we missed out on. Sesco hasn't adapted. and
00:17:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
and Anyone that Man U bought?
00:17:18
KEV
Anyone at my new board hasn't really come in and done it.
00:17:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
Basically.
00:17:22
KEV
And it's a case of, well, Valtemar has come in. He's two home league starts. He scored two goals in a tough league. so And with his head.
00:17:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
I'm happy with him.
00:17:28
KEV
That's his weakness.
00:17:29
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:17:29
KEV
he' hit His head's his weakness. But
00:17:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
know.
00:17:31
KEV
Yeah, we are we are transitioning again. It's like a round three team of Eddie Howe where we need to be a little bit smarter.
00:17:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm.
00:17:37
KEV
We need to learn how to rotate. We need to start putting trust in Willick and Miley personally. i don't know if we're good enough, but we're only going to find out if we see if we can rotate them not.
00:17:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm.
00:17:44
Global Sports Podcast Network
I know.
00:17:47
Global Sports Podcast Network
I don't think Will Gives personally is my direct opinion on that one. I just don't.
00:17:50
KEV
It used to be.
00:17:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
I just used to, and that's, but that's a problem.
Adapting Tactics and Management
00:17:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
what You've got to think about right now, and I just don't think he is. He's not shown anything recently at all, I'll be honest. Alanga will come good I've got faith in him it's just I think he was thrown into it a bit too quickly Eddie didn't do what he did with other players we've discussed this before and he threw him straight in whereas normally would have kept Murphy in and then brought him in but never mind look I believe like what you've said the front three should be the front three Gordon on the left Murphy on the right and Valdemar out front but again going back to what you've just said can't wait for Visser to be back
00:18:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
Because Valdemar and Visser, you can see what Valdemar can do to a point. you' He is quite tasty with his feet, to some of the kind of moves he makes.
00:18:24
KEV
Oh.
00:18:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
He has got good skill for a tall guy. And he talked about doing that himself, didn't he, before he even started.
00:18:31
KEV
Yep.
00:18:35
KEV
um
00:18:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
and So it will be really interesting to what is a proper striker in Visser. He is an out-and-out striker, where Valdemar lately isn't. And you can see that straight away.
00:18:45
KEV
I think he is, you know.
00:18:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
um so
00:18:46
Global Sports Podcast Network
I know, but you know what i mean He's not a direct number nine like Visser is, is what I mean about the out-and-out. That's all I meant by that. I think he's going to much better in a two-striker position, if you know, like team.
00:18:46
KEV
think he is.
00:18:55
KEV
Yeah, it's coming back in.
00:18:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
um it's more what I'm angling at yeah and like you said playing off them playing behind them whatever you want I think that's be much better for where it gives you that option in the midfield as well to do a bit more rotation because strange enough as as much as I'd agree that it'll be Tenali, Bruno and Big Joe I've got to admit that Big Joe wasn't good against us I think he just I don't know he was my disappointment let's say because I'm not going you know say anyone was horrible because I don't think they were
00:18:57
KEV
It is coming back. Yeah.
00:19:14
KEV
I actually think it was a midfield three's worst game I think I
00:19:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
But if you're going to pick anyone, I did i even said around the 60-minute mark, I was like, Big Joe needs to come off now. He needs to, like... And eventually he'd come off anyway, but...
00:19:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
and saw they just Something wasn't clicking at all, was it, with them?
00:19:33
KEV
I wasn't massively impressed with Tonali.
00:19:34
Global Sports Podcast Network
It was weird.
00:19:35
KEV
I think there's the weight of expectations and it's been a stuttering start. I think they're desperate. but're desperate to get back to where they were back in the last season.
00:19:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, no.
00:19:42
KEV
and adeta I think we just need to, again, it's hard because Newcastle fans are very passionate in its home. remember we were trying to keep the ball and they were screaming at them to go forward. on what you doing? We're on the hook.
00:19:53
KEV
We've got the ball. like This is where we need kill the game. But we're encouraging them go forward.
00:19:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:19:56
KEV
But I think it's just we need to all just calm. Stop almost trying too hard. Just do what feels natural and let it flow and let the midfielders go with gut instinct. But I have no issue that we'll get it right.
00:20:07
KEV
But I just think it might not be this game because USG have had an unbelievable rise, like I said, kind of in the first part where
00:20:10
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:20:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm.
00:20:15
KEV
They've invested a lot of money, but they haven't just invested it traditionally. They've invested it in terms of and young players, selling them on, getting them in. like So when a manager comes in at USG as well, we don't get to pick our own backroom staff.
00:20:27
KEV
It is a backroom staff that owner picks and the manager realises he is not the club.
00:20:27
Global Sports Podcast Network
well
00:20:31
KEV
He is part of the club and he has to work with what he's got. So everything top to bottom at this club is we don't agree with release clauses.
00:20:33
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:20:38
KEV
We had one and the new owner after Tony Bloom didn't like it. So... It's a very well-run club and I know what they're doing.
00:20:44
Global Sports Podcast Network
well
00:20:46
KEV
They're very efficient and they've got a striker, Raul, by the way. Raul, he signed this season. He's got four and seven. So he's adapting really well and the other striker is six foot five, Monster.
00:20:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
Wonderful.
00:20:55
KEV
So we can mix it up. It's going to be a tough game.
00:20:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:20:58
KEV
I'm excited for it. I'm really excited for it. I hate the kickoff time.
00:21:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:21:02
KEV
I hate the 5.45 kickoff. It doesn't...
00:21:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
I know. Well, luckily we've only got one, though.
00:21:04
KEV
it
00:21:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
Out of all the way eight games, we've only got one.
00:21:06
KEV
Yeah, we played Milan away and got a 0-0 draw. And our last Champions League won at 5.45. I remember rushing home from work for it, but it's just a crap time, isn't it? Kids on in bed.
00:21:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
It is.
00:21:15
KEV
I've got to put my kids to bed at halftime.
00:21:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
You can't enjoy it.
00:21:17
KEV
So there's pressure on the halftime break to get their kids in bed in time.
00:21:18
Global Sports Podcast Network
Forrest. I don't
00:21:22
KEV
So I get back for us. It's a bloody nightmare. We don't think about proper fans, do we?
00:21:25
Global Sports Podcast Network
know. Nah, course I don't man, we're not part of this whole equation now really.
00:21:30
KEV
I'm excited.
00:21:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
um
00:21:31
KEV
I'm excited.
00:21:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
No, I am, I'm looking forward to tonight, health I'll call it, yeah. don't know, let's look, like I said, a win will be unreal, a draw won't be bad. But at the same time, we can't have another loss, man. I don't care how good USG are at the minute.
00:21:47
Global Sports Podcast Network
I just, I don't know. just don't want to know that. even for the team, like, forget the fans right now because I'm sick of listening to the Moaners. I just want the team. I am, like, but I just want the lads.
00:21:47
KEV
I think we've...
00:21:55
KEV
Most of our listeners are Newcastle fans who have slated them for 22 minutes.
00:21:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
ah They'll get up. They're not mourners. People who listen to us are happy people.
00:22:01
KEV
Good point for sensible fans.
00:22:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
I can guarantee it Sensible people. ah But yeah, we've just had half of them switch off. They're like, you idiots. And they're off.
00:22:09
KEV
Oh, yeah.
00:22:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
But no, no. um All jokes aside, like, it's the team. I just want them to keep their kind of heads up. and Because at the end of the day they are human beings. it will get to them if they're constantly losing or just constantly just missing out or constantly not seeing a game out, it which which is actually what's happening, isn't it? Like with the Arsenal game sort of thing.
00:22:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
and God, what Barcelona did to us is exactly where we need to be. You know what i mean?
00:22:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
They get it. And then, what, we got seven minutes of injury time and didn't even touch the ball.
00:22:30
KEV
I thought, yeah.
00:22:34
KEV
We touched the ball four or five times in seven minutes.
00:22:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
But this is how big teams and proper, well, but not well managed, because that's awful against Eddie.
00:22:37
KEV
It was so good. Yeah.
00:22:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
You know what I mean, though? Just very well structured and highly organised. mean, Barstow's one of the best in the world, so it's easy to pick them. like But you know what I mean?
Match Predictions and Nostalgia
00:22:50
Global Sports Podcast Network
We watched them do it against us. We did not stand a chance. It was gutting because like it was great to get that goal from Gordon at the end. But then the way they managed the game out, you're like, oh, great, thanks.
00:23:00
KEV
think we I think, again, with Eddie's mindset and his squad's mindset, we've been so lucky to have the characters we have.
00:23:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
Cheers for that.
00:23:05
KEV
I don't think we'll be feeling sorry I think this will be an opportunity for them to...
00:23:07
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, I hope not.
00:23:09
KEV
We'll put Arsenal not going to feel sorry for ourselves. Massive game. Let's put it right. We'll give it a go. Doesn't necessarily mean you're going to win. And obviously, we'll do predictions at the end. But I just think with the group players we have, for me, it's very hard to criticise after everything we've been through.
00:23:23
KEV
And let's be honest, this fairy tale of, you know, the Dan Burns and...
00:23:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:23:28
KEV
and ah Fabian Shaw to an extent because he's been there a long time. Joe Linton to an extent who are playing so above themselves.
00:23:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm.
00:23:34
KEV
It will end at some point. and that's when we
00:23:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
Murphy?
00:23:37
KEV
yeah Murphy, and it will end and we'll have bad games.
00:23:38
Global Sports Podcast Network
So many really.
00:23:40
KEV
We haven't got the... we we We're starting to get them. We've got the Tenaris. We've got the... bru I would include Joe in the mat now actually but we have got some players who will be very consistent all the time but it's very hard to do in football.
00:23:53
KEV
And look, we've seen it at Premier League the weekend's results when we lost to Arsenal. Anybody can beat anybody. I mean, Man Utd beat Chelsea somehow.
00:23:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:24:00
KEV
I know it was a man sent off and then got absolutely thumped by Brentford. And then West Ham getting a draw at Everton, even when Everton had conceded at home. The league's so competitive. We'll pick up points where we don't expect it.
00:24:10
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh God, yeah.
00:24:11
KEV
We've dropped points where we haven't expected it. But let's be honest again, another positive. We only lost a point against Arsenal. It's not like we were ahead and we conceded equaliser to drop two points in the 90th minute. I know it'll be better slightly for one point, but we lost a point. We lost a point against Liverpool.
00:24:25
KEV
We'll pick them up away. It's fine. But Champions League has to kick off. I think we've got to get at least a point. i would be happy with a draw.
00:24:32
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:24:33
KEV
I know that's not going to be a popular opinion and people will be screaming at the radios or the phones now.
00:24:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:24:37
KEV
What a draw. We're a team I've never heard of. But it's a tough game. and um
00:24:43
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:24:43
KEV
We're in a tough period in terms of we need to stick together, including the fan base. And we've got to get back at home. We've got to get back at home in the Champions League, get through this one. And then, of course, we've got Forrest at home as well.
00:24:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. It's onto Benfiga, isn't it?
00:24:55
KEV
Against Big Ange.
00:24:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
Next in the Champions League.
00:24:57
KEV
Anybody can beat a Big Ange team because we unwashed down the road, did man?
00:25:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
Cavman.
00:25:02
KEV
Sorry.
00:25:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
and Let's not talk about that.
00:25:06
KEV
and
00:25:06
Global Sports Podcast Network
um So moving swiftly on, we will end it with predictions. So obviously I've got no idea what the rest them will say, but I reckon Ian, he should have been on tonight, bless him, but he's stuck at that spot with his mum.
00:25:15
KEV
one
00:25:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
So we'll do 3-1 on Ian's behalf. I don't even want to guess what Michael or Nick would pick, I'll be honest. So I'm sorry, um they can just sit out for now. Sorry, Michael and Nick. and
00:25:28
KEV
I'll do Michael's.
00:25:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
Kev, go on then, I'll do next thing, go on.
00:25:29
KEV
I'll do Michael's. You do next. You do next, right? So I think Michael would go with... I think he'd try and be positive on it. I think he'll be eb confident about but I think he knows it'll be tight. So I think i'm gonna go Michael would go for a one ni win.
00:25:44
Global Sports Podcast Network
Ooh. Alright then. I wasn't expecting you that one. um I reckon Nick would get excited and think, yeah, I reckon she would get excited and she's going to pick a proper high scoring game and it's going be like to us.
00:25:51
KEV
Liquid gun, high four.
00:26:01
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:26:02
KEV
Now I think, i think 1-0, but I'll give back to Michael because I'm so kind, right?
00:26:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
Something them like that.
00:26:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. Mm-hmm.
00:26:07
KEV
so I'm going to go 1-1.
00:26:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
a bugger all right i'll tell you what just because i like being different across the board i'm gonna go 2-1 to us because i was gonna pick 1-1 but yeah i'll go 2-1 because i can you the rule is you never predict a loss right can
00:26:14
KEV
Yeah, up to 2. Also,
00:26:20
KEV
don't know I don't know why this is coming to my head, but why does this team, USG, feel like an Oberfemi Martins team? like it's ah If we could bring Martins out of retirement, I feel like this is the team.
00:26:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
you yeah yeah
00:26:30
KEV
This is the team we would bang for and against and look like a world superstar. So Oberfemi, not that you're listening if you are, what a miracle.
00:26:38
Global Sports Podcast Network
unbelievable
00:26:38
KEV
Please, please, please come and play for us for one more game. I mean, you're still 22, right? So you can play this game. Let's go.
00:26:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
but you lost his passport years ago um brilliant right we'll end it on that one um and i don't know when i'll see you again kev because it's been a while um but i'm sure i'll see yeah well i'll see you sometime later on the in the champions league pictures but anyway it's been a pleasure as always see you later
00:26:49
KEV
A legend. I love Frenny.
00:26:56
KEV
See next year. Happy New Year.
00:27:08
Global Sports Podcast Network
Thank you.