Don Hutchison, former footballer with a rich Premier League history, joins Kevin Nolan, who captained West Ham and Newcastle, and Paul Robinson, ex-goalkeeper for Tottenham. They dive into the pressing question of whether Chelsea is the first big challenge for Liverpool's new manager, Arna Slot. Ryan Yates, Nottingham Forest's captain, shares insights into his leadership and the team's success this season. The panel also discusses Manchester United's struggles under Erik ten Hag and the significance of Thomas Tuchel's appointment as England head coach.
The appointment of Thomas Tuchel as England manager raises questions about the criteria used for national coaching selections.
Erik Ten Hag's increasing pressure at Manchester United highlights the club's struggles amidst questions about prior management decisions.
Deep dives
Thomas Tuchel's Appointment as England Manager
The decision to appoint Thomas Tuchel as the new England manager has sparked debate surrounding the criteria for selecting national coaches. Some believe that an English manager should lead the team; however, others argue that the best candidate, regardless of nationality, should be chosen for the role. The panel discusses Tuchel's impressive tactical skills, demonstrated by his previous success in the Champions League, suggesting he possesses what the FA currently needs as the team prepares for upcoming challenges. The discussion highlights the importance of experience, with fellow coaches providing necessary support during the transition period into international football.
Concerns About English Coaching Candidates
The conversation reveals concerns regarding the lack of interviews extended to several prominent English coaching candidates during the selection process for the England managerial position. Names like Eddie Howe and Graham Potter were mentioned as potential candidates who were not approached, raising questions about the FA's decision-making. The panel reflects on the historical context of hiring practices in football, expressing skepticism over how local coaching talent is valued. They emphasize that while Tuchel may be a suitable choice, there is an essential duty to nurture and promote homegrown coaching talent for the future.
Manchester United's Managerial Instability
Manchester United's managerial situation has come under scrutiny, especially with Eric Ten Hag facing increasing pressure following a shaky start to the season. The panel discusses the possibility that the club may have missed an opportunity by not appointing Tuchel earlier, given the current turbulence in United's performance. There's a consensus that Ten Hag’s position remains precarious, with speculations about his future looming as the team struggles to find form. The ongoing challenges at the club are seen as both a reflection of past management decisions and current recruitment strategies.
The Competitive Landscape of the Premier League
As the Premier League progresses, there is a noticeable shift in dynamics with teams like Liverpool and Chelsea emerging as serious contenders. Liverpool is praised for its seamless transition under new management, effectively building on previous successes while adapting to a slightly different style of play. Chelsea's development is highlighted, with a focus on the coach's ability to work with the players and implement his vision. Overall, the competitive nature of the league is seen as an exciting development, with various teams capable of challenging for the title this season.
Don Hutchison, Kevin Nolan & Paul Robinson join Aaron Paul to look ahead to another busy weekend in the Premier League. The team discuss whether Chelsea is Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s first big test and is it win or bust for Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag?
Plus the panel talk the appointment of Thomas Tuchel as England head coach and what that means for the Premier League.
Forest Captain Ryan Yates also drops by and gives an insight into what it’s like to be captain and what is clicking this season to make Forest so hard to beat.
Timecodes:
02:05 Tuchel & England job
05:10 Eddie Howe & English coaches
11:20 ETH and United
18:20 Ryan Yates
29:50 Is Chelsea Slot’s biggest test?
BBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries this week:
Saturday 19th October Manchester United v Brentford - Premier League - 5 Live from 15:00
Bournemouth v Arsenal - Premier League- 5 Live from 17:30
Sunday 20th October Wolves v Man City - Premier League - 5 Live from 14:00
Liverpool v Chelsea - Premier League - 5 Live from 16:30
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