Advantage Spurs & Newcastle in EFL Cup, plus FA Cup 3rd round and West Ham pick Potter
Jan 9, 2025
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Tottenham pulls off a surprising 1-0 win against Liverpool, raising questions about VAR's impact. Meanwhile, Newcastle shines with a 2-0 victory at Arsenal, leaving fans wondering if the Gunners are struggling. West Ham faces a coaching shake-up as Graham Potter steps in for Julen Lopetegui, promising changes ahead. As the FA Cup third round approaches, fans are buzzing over massive clashes like Arsenal vs. Man United, while non-league Tamworth gears up to face Spurs. Anticipation grows for thrilling cup matchups!
Tottenham's impressive victory over Liverpool highlights their resilience amidst an injury crisis and raises questions about VAR's impact on officiating.
Newcastle's significant win at Arsenal underscores their strong form this season while questioning Arsenal's recent performance stability and weaknesses.
West Ham's management turmoil, with Graham Potter replacing Lopetegui, emphasizes the need for defensive solidity amid inconsistent performances and team morale issues.
Deep dives
Recent Football Developments
The episode covers significant developments in recent football matches, particularly focusing on the League Cup semi-finals. Newcastle achieved a notable victory against Arsenal at the Emirates, marking their first triumph there since 2010, while Spurs managed to beat Liverpool 1-0, showcasing their resilience amidst an ongoing injury crisis. The discussion highlights the effectiveness of players like Bergwijn, who has recently begun to find his form and was instrumental in the match against Liverpool, illustrating his potential impact on the team's success. The injury to Bentenko during the game raised concerns about player safety, demonstrating the physical toll these high-stakes matches can take.
West Ham's Managerial Changes
West Ham’s tumultuous management situation is examined, specifically the sacking of Carlos Lopetegui after a disappointing run of results. Graham Potter is set to replace him, with high expectations from fans who hope he can turn the club's fortunes around. During Potter's introductory press conference, he emphasized the need to solidify the team's defensive strategy, reflecting upon West Ham's current struggles with conceding goals. The conversation also touches on how the club's handling of Lopetegui’s exit was poorly timed, affecting team morale and signaling a need for better management stability.
FA Cup Excitement and Upset Potential
The upcoming FA Cup third round is generating excitement, with various matches presenting potential for upsets. Arsenal's clash with Manchester United stands out as a key fixture, particularly given the historical rivalry and both teams' current form fluctuations. The discussion emphasizes the unpredictable nature of cup competitions, where lower-tier teams often spring surprises against established sides. Additionally, the conversation mentions mid-tier clubs such as Stockport and other teams that might exploit the opportunities presented by high-pressure matches against Premier League opponents.
Impact of VAR in Recent Matches
The influence of VAR on recent matches is a hot topic of discussion, especially following its implementation in crucial League Cup ties. Notably, the disallowed goal by Dominic Solanke sparked debate over the consistency of officiating and the application of offside rules. The commentary reflects on how VAR has altered perceptions of fairness in football, suggesting that it has shifted the threshold for what constitutes a foul or an offside decision. Coaches and players are adapting to these changes, which significantly affect game strategies and outcomes, making VAR a focal point of modern football debates.
Player Performance Under Pressure
The episode highlights individual player performances, particularly focusing on rising talents like Bergwijn and Kinski in Tottenham's recent matches. Bergwijn's tenacity and ability to capitalize on opportunities were crucial for Spurs' victory against Liverpool, demonstrating his growth as a player. Kinski's debut performance showed promise, with effective distribution that helped alleviate some of the defensive pressures faced by the team. The players' adaptability in high-stakes situations underlines the importance of maintaining composure and seizing crucial moments in pivotal matches.
Jimbo, Michael Cox, Duncan Alexander and Jay Harris cast their collective eye over a very big week of football.
Tottenham inflict a rare defeat on Arne Slot’s Liverpool as they take a 1-0 lead to Anfield in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals in a month’s time. Can they reach the final and did Ange have a point about VAR?
Newcastle get a dream 2-0 win at the Emirates in their first leg. Have Arsenal gone backwards this season and do the Magpies have any weaknesses right now?
Big week at West Ham as The Athletic’s Roshane Thomas tells us. Julen Lopetegui is replaced as head coach by Graham Potter, someone with a point to prove after his 7 month spell at Chelsea.
And it’s FA Cup 3rd round weekend. Arsenal v Man United is the standout tie. Or is it non-league Tamworth against Spurs? How many ties is Ashley Young linked to? Those questions answered and more.
Produced by Charlie Jones.
RUNNING ORDER:
• PART 1a: Tottenham 1-0 Liverpool (03.00)
• PART 1b: Arsenal 0-2 Newcastle (15.00)
• PART 2: Lopetegui out, Potter in at West Ham, with Roshane Thomas (23.00)