In this festive edition of Pitchside Perspective, we dive into the chaos, pressure, and traditions that make the Premier League’s Christmas period so unforgiving. From balancing coaching insight with pure fan enjoyment to the magic of lower-league football at Christmas, we explore why this stretch of the season can define campaigns. We then tackle the Premier League’s biggest talking points — unpacking Mo Salah’s comments and their impact on Liverpool, before breaking down where the club’s season has gone wrong, from recruitment to squad balance. The debate continues with Arsenal’s title credentials, questioning whether youth and talent are enough under festive pressure, while Manchester City once again lurk, ready to capitalize when others slip. We also assess the impact of AFCON, ongoing uncertainty at Manchester United, and what the future holds for Kobbie Mainoo, before closing with reflections on relegation battles, festive traditions, and the frustration of a diluted Boxing Day schedule. Topics We Cover ✅ Why the festive period exposes squads and managers✅ Coaching vs enjoyment: watching football through a tactical lens✅ The appeal and importance of lower-league football✅ Mo Salah’s comments and their impact on Liverpool✅ Liverpool’s recruitment issues and season struggles✅ Arsenal’s title challenge: youth, pressure, and experience✅ Why Manchester City are always lurking✅ AFCON’s impact on the Premier League✅ Manchester United’s inconsistency and Kobbie Mainoo’s future✅ Relegation battles, team spirit, and Boxing Day traditions Whether you’re analysing the title race, fighting for survival, or simply soaking up the festive football schedule, this episode captures the pressure, emotion, and reality of the Premier League at Christmas. 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow Pitchside Perspective for in-depth conversations on the game’s biggest moments, stories, and debates.

Festive Chaos in the Premier League: Salah, Arsenal’s Gamble & City Lurking | Ep 12

In this episode of Pitchside Perspective, we sit down with Werner Roth — US Soccer Hall of Famer, former New York Cosmos captain, NASL trailblazer, and co-star in Escape to Victory — to explore one of the most remarkable chapters in U.S. soccer history. ⚽🎬 From playing alongside Pelé to leading one of the most star-studded teams the sport has ever seen, Werner shares firsthand stories about the rise of the Cosmos, the transformation of American soccer, and what it took to navigate a locker room full of global icons. This is a rare look behind the scenes of a league that helped shape the modern game in the United States. Werner also reflects on leadership, culture, and the importance of humility when guiding superstars — and reveals how an unexpected opportunity led him from the pitch to Hollywood. Topics We Cover:✅ Pelé’s impact on American soccer and the NASL✅ What made the Cosmos a cultural phenomenon✅ Leadership lessons from captaining a team of legends✅ How the NASL changed the trajectory of U.S. soccer✅ The evolution of soccer ownership and the modern game✅ Werner’s journey into acting &amp; filming Escape to Victory✅ The future of U.S. soccer — and the case for promotion &amp; relegation Whether you’re passionate about soccer history, fascinated by Pelé’s legacy, or simply love hearing stories from the pioneers who built the game in America, this episode delivers insight, nostalgia, and inspiration in equal measure. 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow for more conversations that explore the past, present, and future of the beautiful game.

Pelé, The Cosmos & Hollywood: Werner Roth’s Untold Story ft. Werner Roth | Ep 10

In this episode, Stuart sits down with Coach Joe Quigley — a highly respected youth development coach known for his work with at Super Soccer Stars and Football Fun Factory as well as UK Elite delivers his powerful message about putting kids first in sport. ⚽ Joe has become a leading voice on redefining what great coaching looks like: creating environments where children play freely, feel supported, and fall in love with the game long before tactics and systems ever enter the picture. This conversation breaks down why fun, engagement, and joy are the real foundations of long-term player development — and why so many coaches unintentionally get this wrong. From designing play-based training sessions to understanding what kids actually want from sport, Joe shares insights every coach, parent, and club leader needs to hear. Topics We Cover: ✅ Why “fun first” is essential in youth soccer✅ The biggest mistakes coaches make with young players✅ Play-based training and why it works✅ How enjoyment accelerates learning and development✅ Why kids stay in sport (and why they quit)✅ Building environments where players feel valued as people✅ The role of friendship, freedom, and creativity in sport✅ How coaches can reshape the player experience Whether you coach a grassroots U8 team or an elite academy group, this episode offers a powerful reminder: kids don’t show up to be coached — they show up to play. 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments &amp; don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow for more conversations shaping the future of youth sports.

The Biggest Mistake in Youth Coaching: Forgetting Fun ft. Joe Quigley | Episode 10

In this episode of Pitchside Perspective, Stuart &amp; Jack sit down with former New York Red Bulls &amp; NYCFC Academy Coach Richard Scott to unpack what truly defines a team’s identity — and why strong beliefs, principles, and a clear coaching philosophy are the foundation of long-term success in modern football. ⚽ From the rise of possession-based football to the challenge of staying true to your tactics under pressure, this conversation explores how the best coaches build systems that balance creativity, structure, and adaptability. Richard shares how understanding your team identity helps players make smarter decisions, solve problems creatively, and maintain style even when the game gets chaotic. It’s an honest look at the balance between football tactics and coaching beliefs — and why having conviction is key in today’s results-driven world. Topics We Cover:✅ Why beliefs and principles matter in coaching✅ Building a clear and consistent team identity✅ How possession-based football shapes player development✅ Creative problem-solving and adaptability in-game✅ Teaching players to think, not just execute✅ Managing external pressures as a coach✅ Balancing philosophy with football pragmatism Whether you’re a coach, player, or football enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights on how to define your team’s style, sharpen your football tactics, and build a lasting identity on and off the pitch. 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments &amp; don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow for more deep-dive football conversations shaping the modern game. #FootballPodcast #CoachingPhilosophy #TeamIdentity #FootballTactics #SoccerCoaching #PossessionBasedFootball #FootballDevelopment #ModernFootball #CoachingMindset #FootballCulture #SoccerPodcast #PitchsidePerspective #TacticalAnalysis #FootballStrategy #FootballCoach

Problem Solving in Football: Keys to Success ft. Richard Scott | Ep9

In this episode, Stuart and Jack welcome back Paul Gerald from Groundhopper Soccer Guides — a football travel expert helping fans experience the game’s greatest atmospheres across Europe. 🌍⚽ Paul joins the show to share what he’s been up to since his last appearance — including exciting new partnerships with St Johnstone and West Brom — before diving into the ultimate question: Where’s the best stadium atmosphere in Europe? From the drama of Italian supporters to the boisterous energy of English terraces, this conversation explores how fan culture, emotion, and local traditions shape the matchday experience. Paul breaks down his favorite stadiums outside England, hidden gems across Spain, and what truly makes a football ground unforgettable. Topics We Cover:✅ Catching up with Paul and Groundhopper’s latest projects✅ The best stadiums to visit outside of England✅ English vs Italian supporter culture✅ Why atmosphere feels different across Europe✅ Hidden gems for football travelers in Spain✅ What makes a truly great matchday experience✅ Quick-fire “This or That” stadium questions Whether you’re a football fan, traveler, or culture lover, this episode captures the passion, emotion, and connection that make European football truly special. 💬 Share your favorite stadium experiences in the comments — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow Pitchside Perspective for more conversations shaping the game. #FootballPodcast #SoccerTravel #StadiumAtmosphere #Groundhopping #EuropeanFootball #FootballFans #MatchdayExperience #FootballCulture #FootballTravel #HiddenGems #StadiumTravel #SoccerCulture #PitchsidePerspective #FootballTalk #SoccerPodcast

Where's The Best Atmosphere in Europe? ft. Paul Gerald | Ep 8

In this episode, Stuart and Jack dive into the chaos, drama, and excitement of the Premier League — a season full of surprises, unexpected results, and intense title races. From Arsenal’s rise as genuine title contenders to Liverpool’s struggles, and shock performances from teams like Bournemouth and Aston Villa, this conversation explores what makes the current season one of the most unpredictable in years. Stuart and Jack debate whether teams can sustain their form, examine the cyclical nature of football seasons, and reflect on why fans love — and sometimes get frustrated by — the thrill of the Premier League. Topics We Cover: ✅ Why unpredictability is the Premier League’s defining feature✅ Arsenal’s rise and Liverpool’s form: title race dynamics✅ Shock results and unexpected performances from mid-table teams✅ Historical patterns and sustainability of team success✅ The excitement (and frustration) of varied team performances✅ What makes a winning style of play in modern football✅ The cyclical nature of football seasons and momentum✅ Predictions, debates, and insights from the hosts Whether you’re a fan, coach, or simply love the drama of football, this episode offers a deep dive into why the Premier League continues to surprise and thrill every season. 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments &amp; don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow for more conversations shaping the game. #PremierLeague #FootballPodcast #SoccerPodcast #Arsenal #Liverpool #Bournemouth #TitleRace #PremierLeagueAnalysis #FootballDrama #PitchsidePerspective

From Shock Results to Title Races | Ep 7

In this episode, Stuart and Jack welcome Mark Phillips — aka The Neurodivergent Footballer — a former pro who played for Millwall, Brentford, AFC Wimbledon, and Southend United. ⚽ Recently diagnosed with ADHD, Mark has turned his journey of self-discovery into a mission to raise awareness around neurodiversity in sport and help the next generation of players thrive — both on and off the pitch. The conversation explores how understanding neurodiversity can transform coaching, communication, and player development. From emotional regulation to celebrating achievements, Mark shares how coaches and parents can create more supportive, inclusive environments for all young athletes. Topics We Cover:✅ Mark’s journey through football and his ADHD diagnosis✅ Why neurodiversity awareness matters in coaching✅ Building supportive environments for every player✅ Emotional regulation and managing pressure✅ The importance of celebrating achievements✅ The role of parents in youth sports✅ Communication and empathy in player development✅ Resources and support networks for neurodivergent individuals Whether you’re a coach, parent, or player, this episode offers invaluable insight into how understanding the mind can unlock potential — and make football a more inclusive, empowering space for everyone. 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments &amp; don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow for more conversations shaping the game. Check out his platforms <a href="https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCmcsi537MLwX5Zz_lwn4o9A" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">&nbsp;@TheNDFootballer&nbsp;</a> #Neurodiversity #FootballPodcast #SoccerPodcast #ADHDAwareness #TheNeurodivergentFootballer #MarkPhillips #YouthSports #Coaching #PlayerDevelopment #InclusionInSport #PitchsidePerspective

The Neurodivergent Footballer ft. Mark Phillips | Ep 6

In this episode, Stuart and Jack sit down with John Gordon, businessman turned football club owner, to talk about his incredible journey taking over Armoy FC in Cyprus⚽John shares his experiences navigating the challenges of club ownership, his emotional connection to the game, and the vision driving Armoy’s rise through the divisions. The conversation dives deep into what it really takes to build a successful club from the ground up — balancing tradition with modern ambition. Topics We Cover: ✅ The emotional side of football celebrations ✅ Challenges of owning and managing a club abroad ✅ Building a strong community around Armoy FC ✅ Balancing tradition and modernity in football ✅ Attracting players and sponsors with purpose ✅ Creating a unique club culture and long-term vision ✅ Armoy FC’s ambitious path toward European competition Whether you’re a football enthusiast, coach, or just love stories of passion and perseverance, this episode is a must-listen. 💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments &amp; don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more stories shaping the game! #FootballPodcast #SoccerPodcast #ArmoyFC #ClubOwnership #CyprusFootball #PitchsidePerspective #FootballJourney #GrassrootsFootball

Buying a Football Club: The Armoy FC Adventure ft. John Gordon | Ep 5

In this episode of the Pitchside Perspective podcast, hosts Stuart and Jack welcome Phil Phillipou, a youth coach and author of 'Inspiring Young Minds'. They discuss the importance of mental skills in youth sports, the role of parents, and the differences in coaching styles across countries. Phil shares his experiences coaching young players and emphasizes the need for a supportive environment, commitment over motivation, and the development of leadership skills. The conversation also touches on the emotional aspects of coaching and the significance of creating a positive atmosphere for young athletes. Topics We Cover:✅ The importance of mental skills in youth sports✅ How parents can positively (or negatively) impact young athletes✅ Differences in coaching styles across countries✅ Creating supportive environments for players✅ Why commitment outweighs motivation✅ Developing leadership skills in youth soccer✅ Managing the emotional side of coaching✅ Building positive, lasting atmospheres for young athletes Whether you're a youth coach or just passionate about the game, this episode gives you unique insight into the mental side of the game. Don't forget to like, comment and subscribe for more football analysis, different perspectives and conversations shaping the game. #YouthSoccer #SoccerPodcast #Coaching #PlayerDevelopment #YouthSports #FootballPodcast #SoccerCoaching #MentalSkills #SoccerParents #PitchSidePerspective

Mental Mastery for Youth Players ft. Phil Phillipou | Ep 4

Join myself Stuart Sharples and Jack Koleszar weekly as we give our perspective on the beautiful game and the ongoings happening around the globe within Football/Soccer. podscan_q4cfdK129zLwNNkPAHOVEFG0EEz8sUNW

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