Pitchside Perspective Podcast

This week, we're wrapping up the 2024/25 Premier League season with our End-of-Season Awards episode! From Manager of the Year to Signing of the Season, and the always controversial Premier League Team of the Year (TOTY) — we're breaking it all down.Join us as we relive the biggest moments, spotlight the breakout stars, and debate who really deserves the top honors from one of the most dramatic EPL campaigns in recent memory.Who makes your Premier League XI? As always please like, subscribe and follow. Jack & Stu

This week, we're joined by returning guest Ross McNeilly, former coach at Dorking Wanderers and Aldershot, to explore what really happens once the final whistle blows.We break down the modern off-season: from post-season tours and player fatigue, to the growing trend of “pre-season before pre-season.” Are clubs overworking their players? Is the off-season becoming a myth? And how can coaches better support recovery while still preparing for the season ahead?Whether you’re a player about to head into your off-season or a coach looking for fresh ideas and perspective, this is a must-listen conversation on rest, readiness, and the changing rhythm of the football calendar.Check out https://www.p2wfootball.com/ for more info on Perform 2 Win FootballAs always please like, subscribe and followJack, Stu & Ross.

This week we’re diving into the ultimate Football Manager dream come true. Joined by Nathan Owolabi—a legend of the FM community turned real-life first-team analyst at Bromley FC—we explore how a passion for virtual tactics led to a pitchside role during a National League promotion push. After winning a competition run by Xbox and Football Manager, Nathan made the leap from screen to sideline, and he’s here to share the incredible journey. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to go from gaming to ground-level in professional football, this one’s for you.Check out the featured documentary here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbTs3MFUB1QAs always please like, subscribe and followJack, Stu & Nathan

This week we dive into the meaning of Premier League legacy. With Kevin De Bruyne rumored to be leaving Manchester City this summer, we reflect on the impact he’s had—one of the greatest midfielders in Premier League history? Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah looks set to extend his time at Liverpool, strengthening his case as one of the league’s all-time greats. From goals and assists to trophies and cultural influence, we debate what defines a lasting legacy in the Premier League and which players—past and present—have truly cemented their status. Featuring Premier League legends, iconic moments, and football legacy debates you don’t want to miss.What does a player have to do to create a legacy?As always please like, subscribe, follow.Jack & Stu

This week, we dive deep into the archives to celebrate the mavericks — the rebels, the rule-breakers, the artists who lit up the league in their own unique way. These are the players who didn’t always follow the script, but made you fall in love with the game.After Gary Neville questioned whether the Premier League has lost its flair players, we look back to see who makes it into our Top 10 Mavericks of all Time. From the outrageous flair of Jay-Jay Okocha and the mercurial brilliance of Adel Taarabt, to the iconic swagger of Eric Cantona and the effortless genius of Thierry Henry.Who made the cut? Who just missed out? And what do these unforgettable characters tell us about the soul of the modern game?As always please like, subscribe and followJack & Stu

This week we sit down with Nick Regan, Head Coach of VMI Men’s Soccer and USL W League’s Charlottesville Blues FC, to discuss rebuilding a college soccer program from the ground up and creating a positive environment. Taking over a struggling team, Nick used data-driven coaching strategies—influenced by his experience in the startup tech industry in the US, UK and Israel—to transform VMI into a competitive program, securing its most wins in 17 years and its first NCAA Division I victory in nearly a decade. We dive into leadership, recruitment, player development, and culture-building, along with how coaching at different levels has shaped his philosophy. This episode is packed with valuable insights on building success through culture and innovation.As always please like, subscribe & follow. Jack, Stu & Nick

This week we're diving deep into the evolving landscape of U.S. Soccer, with a special focus on the USL and its push for promotion and relegation. Joining us is Simon Baines, Sporting Director of the newly launched Westchester SC! With the club making its USL League One debut just weeks ago, Simon takes us behind the scenes of building a team from the ground up, the challenges of launching in a competitive soccer market, and the vision for the future.Plus, we break down one of the biggest debates in American soccer: Could promotion and relegation reshape the game in the U.S.? With a new format on the horizon, we discuss what it could mean for player development, club sustainability, and the overall growth of the sport across the country. Will it create a more competitive and dynamic league system, or are there major hurdles still in the way?IG: https://www.instagram.com/westchestersc/?hl=enFB: https://www.facebook.com/westchesterscAs always please like, subscribe & follow. Jack, Stu & Simon

This week on Pitchside Perspective Podcast, the international break takes center stage as the Three Lions return to action. The big headline? Thomas Tuchel is set to take charge of England’s national team—a German manager at the helm of England. Is this a bold revolution or a risky gamble? We break down Tuchel’s squad selection, key inclusions and omissions, and what it reveals about his vision. Plus, after near misses in recent major tournaments, what’s been holding England back? Mentality, tactics, or luck? And most importantly—can Tuchel be the one to finally bring football home? #England #ThreeLions #ThomasTuchel #InternationalBreak #FootballAs always please like, subscribe & follow. Jack & Stu

Join us for another episode of Pitchside Perspective as we dive into one of football’s biggest questions—what does it take to make it as a pro? We’re joined by Mark Phillips, whose journey from a 13-year-old Millwall recruit to a Championship and League One veteran, FA Cup finalist, and UEFA Cup competitor gives him unique insight into the game. With 15 years of coaching experience, Mark shares what separates those who make it from those who don’t, how youth development has evolved, and the key lessons that can help young players reach the next level. Whether you’re an aspiring footballer, a coach, or just passionate about the game, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!6occer AcademyWeb: https://www.6occer.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/6occeracademy/FB: https://www.facebook.com/6occerAcademy/As always please, like, subscribe and follow.Jack, Stu & Markpodscan_q4cfdK129zLwNNkPAHOVEFG0EEz8sUNW