Ian Graham

Dr. Ian Graham, former Director of Research at Liverpool FC, revolutionized football analytics, reshaping recruitment strategies. He discusses how data insights led to identifying stars like Mo Salah and making pivotal transfers like Virgil van Dijk. Ian shares the complexities of blending data with traditional scouting and managerial instincts. He also delves into the role of psychological evaluation in player recruitment and the increasing influence of AI in football. This conversation offers a fascinating glimpse into the stats behind Liverpool's success.

Peter Moore, the former CEO of Liverpool FC, shares insights from his tenure, including how Fenway Sports Group reshaped the club's identity and transformed it into a superclub. Dr. Ian Graham, former Director of Research, discusses the pivotal role of data-driven recruitment in player selection and performance analytics. They also touch on FSG's shifting strategies, including the significance of Anfield in preserving local identity, and the challenges of integrating advanced analytics into football operations. Their perspectives offer a fascinating look at modern football governance.

Ian Graham, the Founder and CEO of Ludonautics and former Director of Research at Liverpool FC, discusses the analytics revolution in football. He reveals how data analytics reshaped talent scouting, particularly during his tenure at Liverpool, helping to spot undervalued players like Mo Salah. Graham shares insights on balancing quantitative analysis with player psychology and the complexities of transfer decisions. He also delves into evaluating aging stars' contracts and the evolution of analytics since Chelsea's early innovations, providing a captivating look at the game's behind-the-scenes.

Rob Smedley, former race engineer at Ferrari and current data advisor in F1, joins Dr. Ian Graham, ex-head of data at Liverpool FC, to explore the intersection of motorsport and football. They discuss how F1’s advanced data analysis influences driver recruitment and strategy, comparing it to Liverpool’s innovative scouting methods. The conversation reveals how both sports are harnessing technology for tactical decision-making, emphasizing the evolving role of data in nurturing talent and improving performance under pressure.

Join Thomas Tuchel, the new England national football team manager, alongside expert analyst Raphael Honigstein. They discuss the importance of Tuchel's German roots versus his management skills. Former managers Mark Warburton and Ian Graham debate the clash between traditional scouting and modern data analytics in talent identification. The conversation also highlights inconsistencies in drug testing across sports and the bias faced by athletes based on their stardom. Insightful perspectives and engaging anecdotes make this a must-listen!