

Walk On: The Athletic FC's Liverpool show
The Athletic
The Athletic's James Pearce, Simon Hughes and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to bring you the very best insight into Liverpool Football Club twice a week, every weekFollow for expert knowledge of the club from breaking news to entertaining and informed discussion around the club. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 9, 2026 • 43min
Does performance at Emirates ease the scrutiny on Slot?
James Pearce and Andy Jones share their insights after Liverpool's draw against Arsenal, praising the team's improved defense and midfield while questioning the stagnant attack. They discuss the implications of Slott's tactics and whether the result eases pressure on him. The conversation touches on injury concerns and missed opportunities that could have led to a victory. They also reflect on Kevin Keegan's legacy following his cancer diagnosis, highlighting his impact on the club. Plus, there's a preview of the FA Cup match against Barnsley.

Jan 5, 2026 • 43min
From euphoria to agony: Liverpool’s 97th-minute gut punch
Join James Pearce, an experienced Liverpool correspondent for The Athletic, and Andy Jones, a keen football analyst, as they dissect Liverpool's painful late equalizer against Fulham. They explore if this was the season's biggest blow and analyze the team's passive play and tactical errors. Topics include the impact of missing players like Ekitiké and whether Liverpool’s identity has shifted after recent signings. Plus, they share insights on potential recruitment moves and preview a challenging match against top contender Arsenal.

Jan 2, 2026 • 41min
Unbeaten but uninspiring; Reds make flat start to 2026
Join James Pearce, Senior Liverpool correspondent for The Athletic, and Andy Jones, an insightful football writer, as they analyze Liverpool's frustrating start to 2026 following a goalless draw against Leeds. They delve into Wirtz's uneven performance and debate whether Ekitiké should have gone down for a penalty. The duo discusses the surprising exit of set-piece coach Aaron Briggs and the implications for the team. They also touch on January transfer plans and squad depth, raising concerns about center-back stability ahead of their upcoming match against Fulham.

10 snips
Dec 29, 2025 • 42min
Wunderbar Wirtz stars in Wolves win
Football journalist Gregg Evans and writer Andy Jones dive into Liverpool's thrilling 2-1 victory over Wolves, highlighting an emotional tribute to Diogo Jota. They celebrate Florian Wirtz scoring his first Premier League goal and discuss his adaptation to the team. The hosts voice concerns about Liverpool's set piece struggles and debate whether their recent unbeaten streak indicates real progress. Plus, insights on Mohamed Salah's performance at AFCON and what to expect in the upcoming January transfer window. Exciting insights await!

Dec 22, 2025 • 36min
Festive cheer or festive fear? Isak's injury nightmare
James Pearce, a Senior football journalist for The Athletic, and Andy Jones, a tactical analyst, join Tony Evans to dissect Liverpool's gritty win against Tottenham. They delve into the alarming injury of Alexander Isak and its repercussions on the squad's attacking depth. With key players missing, they discuss potential reinforcements for the January transfer window, including the need for a center-back and scouting Antoine Semenyo. The episode wraps up with light-hearted fan interactions and festive wishes.

Dec 18, 2025 • 40min
Strikers, status & systems: Ekitike’s rise at Liverpool
James Pearce, a senior football journalist at The Athletic, and Andy Jones, a football reporter, dive into Hugo Ekitike's rise as Liverpool's leading striker. They discuss how this affects Alexander Isak and the team's overall dynamics. The conversation also touches on Arne Slot's tactical adjustments, particularly the diamond formation, and which players are thriving in this setup. Additionally, they reflect on the recent sentencing of Paul Doyle related to the Liverpool title parade, examining its impact on the fan community.

Dec 15, 2025 • 46min
Crisis, what crisis? Salah, Brighton & what comes next
Joining Tony Evans are James Pearce, a Senior football journalist for The Athletic, and Oliver Kay, a football writer known for his analytical insights. They discuss Mohamed Salah's record-breaking impact after returning from the bench, surpassing Wayne Rooney’s goal involvement. The conversation shifts to the balance between being a Liverpool legend and leaving a true legacy, comparing Salah's achievements with club greats like Dalglish and Gerrard. They also explore Salah's community contributions, Virgil van Dijk's leadership, and the evolving tactical identity of the team.

Dec 11, 2025 • 44min
Unity in Milan, uncertainty at Anfield
Simon Hughes, a football journalist known for his tactical insights, and Andy Jones, a football writer specializing in club commentary, discuss the latest turmoil surrounding Mohamed Salah's future at Anfield. They reflect on Liverpool's crucial win in Milan and the importance of maintaining unity amidst the chaos. The duo dives into the implications of Salah's public comments, the need for clearer communication, and the potential of his last match against Brighton. The conversation is both insightful and entertaining, shedding light on the complexities within the club.

21 snips
Dec 7, 2025 • 44min
What have you done Mo?
James Pearce, an experienced football journalist, Simon Hughes, a football writer and analyst, and Andy Jones, a Liverpool-focused journalist, join in a heated discussion about Mohamed Salah's frustrations post-match. They dissect the fallout between Salah and manager Arne Slot, contemplating the implications for team morale and potential transfer rumors. The panel also critiques Liverpool's defensive errors, highlights Konaté's struggles, and assesses new striker Hugo Ekitike’s promising performance, all while bracing for the upcoming clash in Milan.

Dec 4, 2025 • 42min
Points dropped, more Salah questions & how to get more from Isak
James Pearce, a seasoned football journalist and Liverpool FC correspondent for The Athletic, and Andy Jones, a tactical analyst and reporter, join Tony Evans for a lively discussion. They dissect Liverpool's disappointing 1-1 draw against Sunderland, blaming slow passing and a lack of intensity. The panel debates whether resting Mohamed Salah is beneficial or reveals deeper issues. They also critique Alexander Isak's underutilization and outline key areas for January reinforcements, all while looking ahead to a challenging match against Leeds.


