Football Daily 72+ EFL Pod: Holloway’s rant & Blackburn bother
Feb 4, 2026
Darrell Clarke, former Bristol Rovers and Barnsley manager turned pundit, shares managerial perspective and transfer stories. He talks Deadline Day chaos and a hand in moving Davis Keillor-Dunn. They discuss Coventry losing a 10-point lead, Blackburn and Watford managerial departures, and Ian Holloway’s fiery rant. Short, sharp takes on recruitment and matchweek plans.
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Inside Deadline-Day Hustle
- Darrell Clarke described being deeply involved in deadline-day calls while away in Dubai and even spoke to managers and assistants about player moves.
- He missed the in-studio pizzas but felt part of the frantic transfer activity through constant contact.
Last-Minute Signing Turned Promotion Hero
- Darrell recalled signing Rory Gaffney at Bristol Rovers as a last-minute, fifth-choice deadline signing.
- Gaffney then scored crucial goals and helped secure promotion that season.
January Transfers Aim For Instant Impact
- Clubs like Portsmouth and Sheffield United spent to address immediate needs and spark momentum in January.
- January signings can provide an instant boost but also risk upsetting long-term squad balance.