Football Ramble Mailbag: What makes a big club?
Jan 13, 2026
The hosts discuss the enduring charm of the FA Cup, reminiscing about memorable upsets and the importance of its cultural value. They dive into what defines a 'big club,' weighing history against modern financial metrics and revealing personal biases. The conversation turns to this season's biggest flops, spotlighting players like Alexander Isak and clubs like Nottingham Forest. For a lighter moment, they debate which Premier League manager you’d least want in a fistfight, leading to some hilarious conclusions.
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Magic Lives In The Early Rounds
- The FA Cup's magic is sustained by storytelling and memorable upsets, not just finals or winners.
- Marcus Speller and Luke Moore argue early rounds and shocks like Portsmouth beating United keep the competition alive.
2008 Cup Run As Proof Point
- Luke Moore recalls the 2008 quarterfinals and semifinals to show how extraordinary draws create magic.
- He lists Portsmouth beating Manchester United and a semi-final line-up of West Brom, Portsmouth, Barnsley, Cardiff as proof.
Structural Changes Hurt Cup Prestige
- Modern scheduling, removed replays and broadcast saturation have eroded parts of the FA Cup's prominence.
- The hosts note Champions League expansion and more televised football shifted fans' focus away from the Cup.