Walk On: The Athletic FC's Liverpool show

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to unpack the 1–0 defeat away to Galatasaray in the Champions League. It was a frustrating night that once again highlighted familiar problems — defensive lapses and missed chances. The guys ask whether the tie is still there for Liverpool to turn around at Anfield next week. The panel also reflect on Arne Slot’s first 100 games in charge and explore why fan sentiment feels surprisingly mixed despite a record no Liverpool manager has ever bettered. Finally with Tottenham Hotspur heading to Anfield this weekend, the guys preview Sunday’s Premier League clash and assess whether it’s the perfect fixture for Liverpool to bounce back. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregg Evans and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down the FA Cup win at Molineux, including Ngumoha’s eye-catching display and whether this is the moment he becomes a genuine first-team option under Arne Slot. The panel also discuss Andy Robertson’s match-winning contribution — a goal and an assist in two electric minutes — and what the left-back had to say about his future at Liverpool FC amid growing competition for places. There’s also reaction to Ryan Gravenberch signing a new six-year deal, a listener question on how busy Liverpool need to be in the summer transfer window, and a look ahead to Tuesday night’s Champions League last-16 clash away to Galatasaray in Istanbul. What must Liverpool do differently to avoid a repeat of their defeat in Turkey earlier this season? Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Gregg Evans & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Andy Jones are with Tony Evans to react to a FIFTH game Liverpool have lost in stoppage time this season after going down 2-1 to Wolves. The panel get stuck into the nature of the performance against the side sitting bottom of the Premier League, discuss Arne Slot's post-match comments and question where it leaves the Reds in their quest for Champions League qualification. There's also discussion on Hugo Ekitike's fading performances within games before debating the lack of productivity from the wide players. Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: James Pearce and Andy Jones Producer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to unpack a goal-fest at Anfield, where set-pieces once again proved decisive — prompting a wider debate sparked by Arne Slot’s claim that dead-ball dominance may be taking some of the joy out of football. The panel dig into standout performances from Alexis Mac Allister, Virgil van Dijk and Hugo Ekitike, ask why Liverpool look so dangerous from corners all of a sudden, and question the consistency of VAR decisions after yet another controversial weekend. There’s also a deep dive into Liverpool FC’s newly released financial accounts — record revenues, a Premier League-high wage bill and what it all means for future spending — plus a look ahead to Wolves under the lights on Tuesday night. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans as they look ahead to West Ham at Anfield and assess where Liverpool really are after a free week on the training ground. The panel discuss the upcoming Champions League last-16 draw, and dig into Liverpool’s injury list — who could we see back on Saturday? There’s also a deep dive into Liverpool’s improving set-piece record and the guys share their thoughts on an in-form Premier League player who could be available to Liverpool on a free this summer! Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to unpack a chaotic final act in Nottingham, from VAR confusion and Alexis Mac Allister’s stoppage-time strike to a worrying first-half display that raised familiar concerns. Did the late winner at the City Ground just paper over the cracks? The panel discuss Florian Wirtz’s late withdrawal, and the impact of Rio Ngumoha off the bench. There’s also no avoiding the Mohamed Salah conversation: a growing goal drought, a smirk when substituted, and a renewed debate over his future and relationship with Arne Slot. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to react to Arne Slot’s latest press conference, assess the ongoing right-back crisis, and dig deeper into the form of Curtis Jones and Milos Kerkez. Next up Liverpool head to Nottingham Forest with confidence growing — but questions still swirling. The panel also discuss Liverpool’s excitement — and concern — over teenage talent Josh Abe and debate shock transfer links involving bitter rivals! Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down the 3–0 win at Anfield, asking what the strong line-up tells us about Slot’s priorities and whether the FA Cup now carries extra importance this season. Then comes the big conversation. Mohamed Salah’s overall numbers are still strong, but his game looks different. The panel dig into his post-AFCON form, his creative output, his relationship with Slot, and where he could be playing football next season if this is to be his last with Liverpool. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to discuss Liverpool grinding out a crucial 1–0 win at Sunderland, breaking the Black Cats unbeaten home record this season. The guys analyse Virgil van Dijk’s match-winning goal, a more resilient defensive display, and the growing injury crisis at right-back after Wataru Endo’s setback. There’s a discussion on Ibrahima Konaté’s form and future. Surely the club can’t allow him to leave for free in the summer? The panel also tackle Arne Slot’s latest comments on Champions League qualification and a look ahead to Brighton in the FA Cup. Is this an important competition this season? Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & Simon Hughes Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to dissect the chaotic defeat to Manchester City — from Szoboszlai’s stunning opener to VAR controversy, a red card, and two late City goals. The panel debate whether Liverpool were hard done by or simply running out of steam, before attention turns to a worrying league table. Is Champions League qualification starting to look unlikely? There’s also discussion on Caoimhin Kelleher’s candid comments on Diogo Jota, Curtis Jones’ contract situation, Harvey Elliott’s loan dilemma, fresh injury concerns — and whether Liverpool can steady themselves with a crucial run of fixtures ahead. Next up, a daunting trip to the Stadium of Light. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to assess what a quiet deadline means for Arne Slot’s squad, including what to expect from summer arrival Jeremy Jacquet and whether Liverpool are taking a risk on depth. Does Liverpool’s January transfer window close with more questions than answers? The panel dig into Richard Hughes’ recent comments on patient long-term recruitment, debate concerns around centre-back options and squad management, as well as respond to criticism over Slot’s rotation and youth development. Finally, attention turns to a huge clash with Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughs & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to react to Liverpool’s 4–1 victory over Newcastle, a game transformed by Hugo Ekitike’s two goals in two minutes and an emotional night for Ibrahima Konaté, who capped his return with a goal. There’s also some deadline day activity to discuss, with Richard Hughes making late moves in the January window, plus the guys discuss Dominik Szoboszlai’s eyebrow raising comments on his Liverpool future. Finally, with Manchester City coming to Anfield next weekend, are Liverpool finally back — or is caution still required? Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down Wednesday night’s European rout, standout performances and another injury which further leaves Liverpool frighteningly thin at the back There’s also reaction to Slot’s eyebrow-raising comments about last season’s title and squad depth, and discussion about why the Liverpool hierarchy are sticking by their man. Finally, attention turns to a huge weekend clash with Newcastle, with Liverpool winless in five league games and looking over their shoulder at the chasing pack of teams just behind them. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26 Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughs & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect as Liverpol’s unbeaten run ends at 13 - and in the process sees them drop out of the top four after defeat at Bournemouth. The panel dissect the defensive frailties, late-game collapses and ask who is really to blame for a squad that looks short on options despite spending £450m last summer. There’s also the latest on Andy Robertson’s future, injury updates, and a look ahead to a crucial Champions League clash with Qarabag — with Liverpool’s European hopes increasingly feeling like they could define Slot’s tenure. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregg Evans and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect on a convincing Champions League win in Marseille. The panel assess Mohamed Salah’s role, a standout night for Dominik Szoboszlai, and whether the Hungarian midfielder is now not just Liverpool’s most important player — but a future captain. There’s also discussion on Liverpool’s record-breaking finances, as The Athletic’s Chris Weatherspoon joins the pod to break down the club topping £700m in revenue for the first time and what it means for wages, spending and competitiveness. Finally, attention turns back to domestic matters, with a tricky trip to Bournemouth looming and questions over whether Liverpool can reset their mentality and translate European confidence into Premier League points. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26 Host: Tony Evans With: Gregg Evans, James Pearce & Chris Weatherspoon Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss that hugely frustrating draw at Anfield against Burnley. Liverpool remain unbeaten — but it doesn’t feel like it! The panel ask the uncomfortable questions about Arne Slot and this most underwhelming of unbeaten runs. Were the boos at full-time justified? With only five wins in the last 17 league games, is this a run of bad luck, bad management, or something more worrying? The guys discuss the latest on Liverpool’s transfer business as Manchester City close in on Marc Guehi, and attention turns to the Champions League and a tricky trip to Marseille, as Liverpool look for answers — and perhaps salvation — in Europe. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss the return of the Premier League and their concerns over squad depth and selection headaches. Are Liverpool one injury away from crisis? The panel examine Liverpool’s wafer-thin defensive cover, debate whether a January move for reinforcements is now unavoidable, and consider the consequences of standing still in the transfer market. There’s also discussion around Liverpool’s attacking identity, the return of Mohamed Salah and a preview of Burnley on Saturday — a fixture that suddenly feels like a must-win! Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Adny Jones join Tony Evans to discuss a 4-1 cup win against Barnsley, and whether the availability of Xabi Alonso - relieved of duties this week by Real Madrid - adds any pressure to Arne Slot. The gang start with the win that stretches the unbeaten run to 11. But it wasn’t all plain sailing - what was Dominik Szoboszlai thinking with that backheel in the box? Then the focus shifts to the manager following Xabi Alonso's sacking at Real Madrid - and whether that has any impact on Arne Slot's position. There’s also discussion of whether the youth setup, transfer activity, and more! Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & John Rogers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to discuss a decent night for Liverpool away to the league leaders, albeit one that ends in yet another draw. The panel discuss some improved performance in defence and midfield, but once again question the slightly stagnant attack. And they ask whether this has eased pressure on the manager ahead of a busy month. There’s also time for an FA Cup preview, with the Reds facing Barnsley on Monday, and heartfelt tributes to Liverpool great Kevin Keegan following the revealing of his cancer diagnosis. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & John Rogers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss the fallout from a bruising draw at Fulham, asking whether this was one of the most deflating moments of the season and how much responsibility Liverpool must take for another late collapse. The panel debate game management after Cody Gakpo’s stoppage-time goal, analyse a blunt first-half display with no shots on target, and assess what Ekitiké’s absence meant for the attack. Plus: the latest on a potential centre back signing, updates on Harvey Elliott’s possible MLS move and a look ahead to a daunting trip to top-of-the-table Arsenal. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.