In this lively discussion, former manager Steve Bruce shares his latest venture back into football with Blackpool, while fellow guest Nathan Jones offers his insights on managerial challenges. Cristiano Ronaldo insists he still deserves a spot in Portugal's lineup, igniting debates on player longevity. Meanwhile, Jamie Vardy takes pride in Leicester City's crafty exploits against the Premier League. The conversation flows with humor as they tackle the unpredictability of football management and touch on the complexities of league contracts.
Steve Bruce's appointment at Blackpool raises questions about his past management struggles and potential favoritism in his hiring process.
Leicester City's recent appeal victory underscores vulnerabilities in the Premier League's financial regulations, allowing teams to circumvent penalties after relegation.
Deep dives
Back-to-School Preparations
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Steve Bruce's New Appointment
Steve Bruce has been appointed as the manager of Blackpool, which has sparked discussions about whether he is suited for the role after previously facing struggles at other clubs. There is skepticism regarding his past performances and management style, with reflections on his reputation as a 'championship manager' and speculation about his willingness to invest in the club's potential. Friends at the club are mentioned as a factor in his appointment, suggesting a level of favoritism. Nonetheless, there are hopes that his experience will bring a new direction to Blackpool.
The Impacts of the Premier League's Financial Rules
Leicester City recently won an appeal after being accused of breaching Premier League profit and sustainability regulations due to their relegation status. An independent panel ruled that the Premier League could not impose penalties since the club was no longer under Premier League jurisdiction after being relegated. This outcome highlights loopholes within the financial regulations that some clubs may exploit, paving the way for teams to avoid penalties by relegating when they exceed spending limits. The situation has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the league's financial oversight.
Cristiano Ronaldo's International Future
Cristiano Ronaldo expressed his belief that he still deserves a starting position in Portugal's national team, emphasizing his self-perception as a key player. Despite discussions surrounding his retirement from international football, he maintains that he will step back only when he feels he is no longer contributing positively to the team. The ongoing debate highlights the challenges faced by coaches in balancing veteran players' influence with the needs of a dynamic squad. Ronaldo's confidence reinforces the scrutiny placed on his performance as he navigates the later stages of his career.
Steve Bruce is back, baby! Today, Marcus, Jim and Pete celebrate his arrival at Blackpool by trying to decide if they would rather go for a drink with him or Nathan Jones.
Elsewhere, Jim explains why things might not be as bad as we think at Man United and Cristiano Ronaldo tells everyone that he should still be starting for Portugal. Plus, Leicester have shithoused the Premier League. Jamie Vardy must be so proud.
We're back on stage and tickets are out NOW! Join us at London Palladium on Friday September 20th 2024 for 'Football Ramble: Time Tunnel', a journey through football history like no other. Expect loads of laughs, all your Ramble favourites, and absolutely everything on Pete's USB stick. Get your tickets at footballramblelive.com!
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