It Was What It Was : The Football History Podcast

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In this second part on data in football, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue their exploration into how data analytics transformed modern football. This episode delves into Liverpool's remarkable journey using data and how it helped them to win the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020. We take a look at the story behind key figures like Ian Graham and Michael Edwards, exploring their early skepticism, the challenges they faced, and the groundbreaking decisions that followed. Discover how Liverpool's recruitment strategy evolved with data, featuring key transfers such as Sadio Mané, Mohamed Salah, and Andy Robertson. Discover the tensions and synergies between data-driven decisions and traditional football instincts that reshaped Liverpool and influenced their remarkable success under Jürgen Klopp.00:44 The Role of Data in Football02:00 Key Figures: Ian Graham and Michael Edwards03:17 Michael Edwards' Journey07:18 Early Skepticism and Challenges12:39 Liverpool's Data Revolution14:54 Transfer Market Strategies18:35 Cultural Clashes and Successes26:24 Ian Graham's Role in Liverpool's Data Revolution27:42 The Transfer Committee's Struggles and Criticisms30:23 Jurgen Klopp's Introduction to Data Analytics35:49 The Impact of Data on Key Signings42:12 The Evolution and Challenges of Data-Driven Decisions44:43 The Future of Data in Football51:47 Conclusion

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper are joined by journalist, broadcaster and author of 'Expected Goals: The story of how data conquered football and changed the game' Rory Smith. In today’s episode we explore the fascinating journey of data analytics in football. From the early days of Charles Reep and Valeriy Lobanovskyi's basic data collection to the revolutionary 1990s that saw a surge in clubs like Liverpool using a data-driven approach under Ian Graham and Michael Edwards to lead to Premier League success. We also look at how clubs like Bolton Wanderers under Sam Allardyce leveraged data to gain a competitive edge and and the cultural shift towards data in football management. Tune in to understand how data played a crucial role in some of the greatest footballing successes of the modern era.00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Rory Smith00:42 The Evolution of Data in Football01:29 The Role of Data Collectors05:04 Prozone and Early Data Pioneers11:17 The Culture War: Nerds vs. Scouts12:17 Sam Allardyce: The Unlikely Data Advocate23:32 Moneyball and Its Impact on Football27:24 Decision Technology and Early Predictions28:06 The Role of Data in Football Predictions28:48 The Fink Tank Column and Its Impact31:09 Spurs' Missed Opportunity with Data32:56 Tottenham's Early Adoption of Data Analytics41:11 Liverpool's Data-Driven Transformation47:10 The Cultural Shift Towards Data in Football58:44 The Importance of Communication in Data Utilisation59:45 Conclusion 

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In this second episode of a two-part special, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue their exploration of Lionel Messi's early years, focusing on his journey from 2005 to the cusp of greatness in 2008. This episode delves into pivotal moments such as Messi's breakthrough in Barcelona's first team, his dramatic red card on his Argentina debut, and his developing relationship with key figures like Ronaldinho. We take a look at Messi's significant impact in the Joan Gamper Trophy, his hat-trick against Real Madrid in the El Clásico, and his stunning solo goal against Getafe. The episode also sheds light on the internal struggles and political tensions within Argentina's national team during the 2006 World Cup, and the influence of Barcelona's management in shaping Messi's career path. Join us as explore the trials and triumphs that shaped Messi into one of football's greatest ever.00:00 Introduction: Messi's Early Brilliance00:40 Messi's Breakthrough in 200501:23 Homesickness04:00 Argentina Debut: A Rocky Start09:25 Barcelona's Dilemma11:31 Rising Star: The Joan Gamper Trophy13:52 Contract Negotiations and Transfer Rumors17:34 Messi's Impact in La Liga and Champions League25:29 Messi's Diet and Lifestyle Concerns26:11 Injury Setback and Return to Training27:26 Champions League Final Disappointment31:22 World Cup 2006: Argentina's Journey36:07 Quarter-Final Clash with Germany42:25 Barcelona's Decline and Messi's Rise46:57 Ronaldinho's Influence and Messi's Future49:10 Conclusion and Future Prospects

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson delve into Lionel Messi's early years at Barcelona and his rise to stardom. They explore Messi's journey from his initial signing to the club in 2000 to the early recognition of his talent by notable figures like Ronaldinho. The episode highlights Messi's challenges, including his growth hormone treatment and cultural adjustments as a young Argentine in Spain. Key moments such as his interactions with future stars like Gerard Piqué, Cesc Fàbregas, as well as his significant contributions to Barcelona's youth and first teams, which are discussed in detail. This episode covers his early setbacks, first team debut, and eventual triumphs, culminating in his standout performance at the 2005 FIFA U20 World Cup. Join us as we uncover how Messi went from a promising youngster to an emerging superstar at Barcelona. 00:00 Introduction to the episode 00:40 Messi's Signing and Initial Challenges01:15 Settling in Barcelona: Cultural and Personal Struggles05:51 Integration and Early Successes20:40 Political Chaos and Youth Team Dynamics23:33 Messi's Rising Star and International Attention27:06 First Impressions and Early Training27:39 Debut and Initial Reactions29:37 Contract Negotiations and Adjustments32:48 National Team Dilemmas38:31 Integration into Barcelona's First Team46:27 Under-20 World Cup and Rising Stardom51:18 Conclusion and Looking Ahead

In this episode of It Was What It Was, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper delve into the decline of Nottingham Forest following their European Cup victories. This final part of a four-part special looks at the financial turmoil, management struggles, and internal conflicts that marked the club's subsequent years. Join us as we discuss how the relationship between Brian Clough and Peter Taylor deteriorated, the club’s misjudged transfers, and the impact of Clough's growing dependence on alcohol. From the fallouts to the poignant departures, this episode covers the unraveling of a once-glorious team and the tragedy of a fractured partnership.00:00 Financial Woes and Disappointment00:50 The Decline Begins02:32 Unraveling Behind the Scenes04:18 Transfer Turmoil09:24 Clough and Taylor's Strained Relationship14:11 Financial Scandals and Internal Strife18:05 The Breaking Point29:03 Clough's Controversial Decisions32:24 Financial Struggles and Player Transfers37:18 Clough's Health and Alcohol Issues45:02 The Breakup with Peter Taylor48:20 Reflecting on Clough and Taylor's Legacy51:29 Clough's Changing Management Style53:43 The Greatest Achievement in European Football55:28 Conclusion

In this episode of It Was What It Was, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue the story of Brian Clough’s Nottingham Forest, following on from their European Cup victory in the last episode. This third part of a four-part special covers the 1979-80 season, looking at how Forest overcame obstacles both on and off the pitch to claim their second successive European Cup. Within the season there are some highs and lows, from overcoming unexpected challenges, and navigating crucial European fixtures to dealing with internal instability and controversial management methods. From high-profile transfers to unforgettable European nights, tune in to discover how this extraordinary team went on to write another chapter in their illustrious history.00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene01:03 Nottingham Forest's European Campaign Begins01:28 Key Transfers and Management Decisions07:47 Unexpected Challenges and Controversies20:31 European Cup Quarter-Finals 28:52 The Importance of Team Camaraderie30:19 Challenges and Strategies in European Matches32:38 Player Management and Injuries36:23 Prepping for the European Cup Final42:49 The Final Match Against Hamburg51:03 Post-Match Reflections and Legacy

In this episode of It Was What It Was, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue their deep dive into Brian Clough's transformative tenure at Nottingham Forest. This second part of a four-part special, captures the thrilling journey as Forest ventures into the European Cup, starting from their incredible 5-1 victory over AEK Athens and leading up to their historic final against Malmö. Expect to hear detailed anecdotes and insights revealing Clough's unique management style, key matches and significant strategic decisions, including the controversial but ultimately successful signing of Trevor Francis for a British record fee. Join us to explore how a team from the second division ascended to the pinnacle of European football. 00:28 Introduction to Nottingham Forest's European Journey01:26 Forest's Rise to European Dominance01:46 The Quest for the European Cup03:36 Strategic Moves and Key Decisions10:02 Facing Liverpool in the European Cup12:42 The Tactical Genius of Clough and Taylor26:17 The Aftermath and Moving Forward26:38 Unbeaten Streak and Chairman Change27:35 European Cup Drama: Forest vs. AEK Athens28:19 Clough's Management Style and Larry Lloyd Incident30:55 Training Anecdotes and Managerial Hypocrisy37:39 Trevor Francis Joins Forest40:51 League Cup Final and European Cup Quarter-Finals42:25 Semi-Final Showdown Against Cologne48:37 European Cup Final Against Malmö55:27 Forest Crowned European Champions

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper set the stage for Brian Clough’s remarkable journey to becoming manager of Nottingham Forest in this first part of a four-part-special. After his departure from Leeds, Clough takes on the challenge of revitalising a mid-table second division team into a team that dominates English and European football. Clough's reunion with assistant Peter Taylor plays a pivotal role as they sign key players like Peter Shilton and Kenny Burns. This episode looks at the early challenges faced, strategic player signings, and the pivotal moments that laid the groundwork for Nottingham Forest's incredible achievements. Join us as we set the stage for one of football's most astonishing success stories.01:09 The Rise and Fall of Brian Clough08:30 Clough's Early Struggles at Nottingham Forest21:03 Clough's Confrontational Style24:44 Building the Foundation for Success27:07 The Clough-Taylor Partnership27:39 Taylor's Reluctance and Reconciliation28:52 Building a Winning Team31:16 The Anglo-Scottish Cup Victory33:37 Promotion to the Top Flight34:43 Strengthening the Squad36:33 Clough's England Manager Candidacy42:11 A Defensive Strategy for Success46:46 Winning the League and Beyond52:15 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson delve into Manchester United’s 1985-86 season - a campaign filled with promise, passion, and ultimately, heartbreak.A year that began with soaring hopes and a record-breaking unbeaten run, unravels in a whirlwind of injuries, off-field drama, and missed opportunities. We’ll explore the highs and lows of Ron Atkinson’s final full season in charge, from the electric atmosphere at Old Trafford to the heartbreak of falling short in the title race. Expect in-depth analysis of key matches, player performances, and the pivotal moments that defined the season as Rob and Jonathan relive the excitement, the agony, and the legacy of 1985-86.00:29 – The 1985-86 Season: High Hopes and Early Promise01:49 – Ron Atkinson’s Arrival and United’s Managerial History04:38 – The Big Ron Era: Style, Successes, and Setbacks08:41 – The Bryan Robson Factor: United’s Dependence13:23 – Squad Building, Transfers, and Team Dynamics17:13 – Cup Runs, League Frustrations, and Dressing Room Drama24:50 – The State of English Football in the Mid-80s25:59 – The 1985-86 Season Kicks Off27:50 – United’s Record-Breaking Start32:41 – The Winning Streak and Early League Dominance39:13 – Injuries, Draws, and the Beginning of the Decline43:34 – Mark Hughes’ Transfer Saga and Off-Field Turmoil47:03 – The Drinking Culture and Its Impact49:43 – The Collapse: Losing Form and the Title54:56 – The End of the Atkinson Era59:18 – The Arrival of Sir Alex Ferguson & Reflections