The Lab (Tottenham Hotspur Podcast)

S3E50 | Something To Believe In

Fri, 08 May 2026 13:36:00 -0000

Photograph by the incredible Frederikke Jensen We’re joined by Dan Kilpatrick to talk through the strange feeling of Tottenham actually giving us something to believe in again. We get into the Villa performance, De Zerbi’s immediate impact, whether the Tottenham way actually exists, the power vacuum behind the scenes, Johan Lange’s role, Palhinha, Vuskovic, survival, and the deeply uncomfortable question of whether we hate Arsenal more than we love Spurs.

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S3E49 | How De Zerbi Got Spurs Playing

Tue, 05 May 2026 15:57:00 -0000

We’re joined by coach to Premier League footballers, Harry Brooks, to break down what Roberto De Zerbi has already changed at Spurs, from the shift in mentality and confidence to the tactical details behind the win at Aston Villa. We talk about buy-in, accountability, composed aggression, pressing traps, risk, control, and why this version of Tottenham suddenly looks calmer, braver and far more connected.

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S3E48 | Spurs’ Lost Season: Leadership, Recruitment and the Road Back

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:16:00 -0000

We’re joined on The Lab by Kish from Lilywhite Lab to dig into what has gone wrong at Tottenham this season, and whether Roberto De Zerbi can be the man to fix it.

We discuss the importance of player buy-in, why Thomas Frank’s approach never fully convinced the squad, and how Spurs’ lack of midfield control became the defining tactical problem of the season. There’s also a deep dive into the signings of João Palhinha and Conor Gallagher, the imbalance of the squad, the short-lived Igor Tudor experiment, and the wider questions around leadership, recruitment and culture at the club.

We also look at De Zerbi’s arrival, his reputation for improving players, and why his coaching could be exactly what Tottenham’s young squad needs, even if the timing could hardly be more chaotic.

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S3E47 | Inside the Psychology of Tottenham’s Relegation Fight

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 15:06:00 -0000

We’re joined by sport psychologist Dan Abrahams to talk about why Spurs so often look tense, hesitant and disconnected when the pressure ramps up. Using ideas from his new book Compete, we get into high performance mindset, why players hide, how leadership loss affects a dressing room, and whether constant upheaval at the club has created confusion on the pitch. We also chat about Romero as captain, the impact of fan pressure, and why culture, structure and messaging matter just as much as tactics.

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S3E46 | De Zerbi-Ball at Spurs: What Changes, What Breaks, What Works

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 16:37:00 -0000

We dig into what De Zerbi ball could actually look like at Spurs, from build-up patterns and risk in possession to which players might thrive and which might struggle. We also get into his reputation, why the Marseille chaos might need more context, and whether Tottenham finally have a coach with enough clarity and force of personality to shape the club around him.

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S3E45 | If Spurs Go Down, What Actually Happens Financially?

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:18:00 -0000

We dig into the financial reality of what would happen if Spurs were relegated. From parachute payments and wage reduction clauses to player sales, stadium revenue and the Leeds comparison, we separate panic from fact and ask just how bad it would really be if the worst happened.

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S3E44 | Inside De Zerbi’s Marseille with Julien Laurens

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:25:00 -0000

We’re joined by journalist and broadcaster Julien Laurens to dig into Tottenham’s appointment of Roberto De Zerbi and why it feels both exciting and slightly terrifying. We talk through his time at Marseille, why his football can be brilliant, why things so often turn volatile around him, and whether Spurs have just hired a genius or lit the fuse on another explosion. There’s loads in here on his tactical demands, his clashes with players and the press, his need for control, and which Spurs players might thrive or struggle under him. A proper deep dive into one of the most fascinating managers in football.

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S3E43 | The Five Pillar Solution To Fixing Tottenham

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:13:00 -0000

We sit down with Ben White to break down the five pillars every successful football club needs: strategy and structure, manager alignment, money, recruitment, and patience. From Daniel Levy’s exit and the vacuum left behind, to why Spurs keep making the same mistakes, we get into what a modern club should actually look like and why Tottenham still feel miles off it. We also touch on stadium revenue, PSR, bad recruitment, and why money alone solves absolutely nothing. A proper look at the problems behind the problems.

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S3E42 | Danny Blanchflower, A Glorious Life

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:30:00 -0000

You can buy Mike Donavan's wonderful book here

We sat down with author Mike Donovan to explore the life and legacy of Danny Blanchflower, a man who helped define Tottenham Hotspur. We discuss Donovan’s journey, Blanchflower’s move to Spurs, and his influence on one of the club’s greatest sides.

More than a brilliant footballer, Blanchflower was a modern captain ahead of his time. Thoughtful, articulate, and demanding of high standards, he shaped the dressing room and embodied what Spurs stood for.

This episode looks at why his legacy still matters today, and why he remains the gold standard for leadership and identity at a football club.

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S3E41 | Tottenham Fans And The Team Bus

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 11:32:00 -0000

We chat to Stu and Jay about how the idea to greet the team bus before Forest came together, how quickly the club, police and fan groups got behind it, and why this week has felt completely different around Spurs. We get into the disconnect between players and fans, why the mood has shifted so suddenly, and why this match feels massive for the future of the club. Most of all, this is about what can happen when Spurs fans pull in the same direction.

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S3E40 | Something Has Shifted at Spurs

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 14:58:00 -0000

Dan Kilpatrick joins us to talk through the sudden change in mood around Tottenham after the Liverpool draw and the performance against Atletico Madrid. We get into whether Igor Tudor has finally found something that works, Romero’s growing influence behind the scenes, the renewed connection between fans and players, and why Archie Gray looks like a huge part of Spurs’ future. There is still plenty of nervous energy around, but for the first time in a while, it feels like there might just be a road out of this.

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S3E39 | How We Stay Up

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:38:00 -0000

We’re joined by professional football coach Harry Brooks to look at Igor Tudor’s first few games in charge and ask the big question: is he making things too complicated at the worst possible time? We get into the Fulham and Palace line-ups, why simplicity might be the only way Spurs survive, which players have to start every week, and whether a more old-school arm-around-the-shoulder approach would give this squad a better chance of staying up. It’s tactical, a bit bleak, and probably more honest than is comfortable.

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S3E38 | ENIC Out, But To What Exactly?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 15:46:00 -0000

We’re joined by Anatole Pang in Hong Kong to talk through why this Spurs mess feels so much scarier than the 90s. We get into the “oil tanker” problem, the Levy exit and the vacuum it’s left, and why it’s suddenly hard to even work out who’s responsible for what. Then we dig into Romero speaking out, the director of football muddle, and why Spurs recruitment keeps feeling reactive. Finally, we look at takeover rumours, the kind of “tycoons” circling, and the grim question of whether relegation might actually make Spurs more attractive to buy.

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S2E37 | Was Conte Right About It All?

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 10:18:00 -0000

We’re joined by Dan KP to talk through the weirdest Spurs season we can remember, from the genuine relegation dread to the strange comfort of just wanting boring mid table life again. We revisit Conte’s outbursts in order, including the Burnley wobble and the infamous Southampton rant, and ask whether he basically saw all of this coming. There’s also some overdue respect for those Bodo Glimt wins, a look at the run in, and a proper chat about who is actually pulling the strings at Tottenham now that Levy’s gone.

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S2E36 | Why Spurs Get Injured - ACLs, Hamstrings and the Truth About Rehab

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 12:39:00 -0000

We’re joined by Michael Green, an elite-level physio who’s worked in professional football across different clubs and projects, including time with the FA and supporting players through PFA rehab pathways. We get into what actually happens after a “routine knock” turns into months out, why ACL timelines are never as simple as fans want them to be, and why hamstrings are basically their own medical universe. Michael also tackles the big Spurs talking points: pitch surfaces, fixture congestion, intensity of playing style, rotation, injections and why you sometimes need weeks to know if they’ve worked. Plus, the bit nobody talks about enough: how stress, sleep and mental load can quietly push players towards injury.

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S2E35 | From Turin to Tottenham: Understanding Igor Tudor

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 14:12:00 -0000

We’re joined by Luca from JFTV to get the Juventus perspective on Igor Tudor and what Tottenham fans can expect over the coming months. We talk about how Tudor steadied Juve in a difficult spell, his strengths as a man manager, the tactical tweaks he tends to make, and whether he really is the right kind of character to guide Spurs through a tense run in. If you’re wondering who Tudor is and why he might work, this is a great place to start.

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S2E34 | Who Should Be Tottenham's Permanent Manager This Summer?

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:50:00 -0000

We’re back with Harry Brooks to talk through Tottenham’s next manager problem, and why it feels like two jobs in one: steady the ship now, then take us forward. We dig into Pochettino as the obvious unifier, Helberg as the exciting left field option, and what De Zerbi, Glasner and Iraola would actually mean in terms of style, control, chaos, and whether the club has the stomach for another intense rebuild. We also get into dressing room standards, why “environment” changes everything, and how modern football has drifted toward patterns, set pieces and safety.

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S2E33 | Vinai Venkatesham’s Promises vs Reality: What is the Plan?

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:52:00 -0000

We get into Romero’s Instagram post and whether “disgrace” was a translation issue or another not-so-subtle dig at the people running Spurs. From a historically dead January window to PSR reality, loan market weirdness, and why the club feels completely directionless, we ask the big one: did we actually try and fail, or just choose not to act? Plus: how much slack does Frank get when the squad is held together with tape, and does the lack of signings quietly buy him time?

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S2E32 | Psychology at Spurs: Dan Abrahams on Control, Chaos, and the Crowd

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 17:15:00 -0000

We’re joined by sports psychologist Dan Abrahams to talk about what’s really happening inside a player’s head when the pressure hits. Dan explains his “ANTS” idea (automatic negative thoughts), why mistakes snowball, and how crowd emotion can seep into decision-making. We also get into “game face” as a practical tool, the difference between high and low performance mindsets, and why culture matters if you want any of this to stick. Proper fascinating, and very Spurs-relevant right now.

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S2E31 | The Tottenham Hotspur Squad Audit

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 19:30:00 -0000

We stop doing the “everyone’s rubbish” routine and actually audit the squad. What’s a genuine upgrade, what’s just frustration, and who simply doesn’t fit. Vicario and the modern keeper problem, Dragusin as the obvious sale, Udogie’s injuries, Porro’s trade off, midfield balance (and the Paulinha debate), the Kulusevski and Maddison contract time bomb, and why Tel is the one attacker we’re building around. Plus, we end with the uncomfortable truth: even if you bin Richarlison and send Kolo Muani back, you still need a proper number nine, and Jon’s punt is Osimhen.

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S2E31 | Why Spurs Fans Will Love Gallagher

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 13:21:00 -0000

We’re back with Harry Brooks and we get stuck into Conor Gallagher to Spurs, why he’s basically plug and play, and why managers love him. We talk about what he actually gives Spurs off the ball, how he can become the press trigger we’ve been missing, and why his engine and discipline make him such a reliable week to week performer. There’s also a bit on Valiz likely heading back to Brazil, a quick Souza check in, and the bigger question of squad balance and what this means for Sarr, Gray and Bergvall. Plus, yes, Villa fans catching strays after Gallagher picks Spurs.

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S2E30 | From Santos Chaos To Spurs Madness: Why Joao Souza’s Mentality Will Be Huge

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 10:19:00 -0000

“Brazilian fans are brutal… the training ground is being invaded… any kind of malcontent he will see in N17, he’s already been through it all in Santos.” We’re joined by South American football expert Tim Vickery as Spurs close in on 19-year-old Santos left-back Joao Souza. Tim explains why fans feel trepidation about South American imports, then makes the case for why this one’s different: Souza came through a brutal relegation scrap with training-ground invasions and still stood out because he doesn’t hide. We talk rawness vs readiness, how he compares to Udogie, what his game looks like (driving runs, cutting in or going outside, low deliveries), and whether Spurs should throw him in immediately. Plus Brazil’s wider issues at full-back and central midfield, and a big Richarlison chat about Ancelotti, and criticism in Brazil.

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S2E29 | Are Spurs Broken Under ENIC and Thomas Frank?

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 14:30:00 -0000

We sit down with The Athletic's Dan Kilpatrick to talk about the weird new Spurs emotion: numbness. Dan explains how a decade in the press box switched off the “fan brain”, why he’s now trying to work out what kind of supporter he even wants to be, and why watching Spurs can feel like booking time off just to be annoyed. From Romero’s captaincy posts and the club’s outside image, to Frank’s grip on the squad, the lack of leadership, and the muddled structure behind the scenes, it’s a proper zoomed out look at a club that feels riddled with

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S2E28 | How Do We Get It Right?

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 14:58:00 -0000

We’re back with Anatole Pang to talk about the bit of Spurs you never really see: the structure, the decision-making, and why everything keeps looping back to the manager taking the heat. We get into the missing director of football role, how long proper turnarounds actually take, why the squad feels like it was built without a plan, and what has to change in the next 6 to 12 months if Spurs want a real football identity again.

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S2E27 | 'Thomas Frank Was Never This at Brentford'

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 14:31:00 -0000

We’re joined by Adam Rosenbaum, Brentford season ticket holder and fan culture photographer, after a grim nil nil where Spurs looked like they had no interest in winning. We talk about what Thomas Frank’s Brentford actually were, why none of it is showing up at Tottenham, and whether this is tactics, players, confidence, or just the job swallowing him whole. Plus we get into Brentford fans turning on Keith Andrews despite being ninth, why football discourse has gone fully binary, and the moment we knew Spurs were cooked when Vicario started time wasting after an hour.

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S2E26 | Luka Vuskovic Is Not Normal

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 15:48:00 -0000

We’re back with coach Harry Brooks to deep-dive on wunderkid Luka Vuskovic and why the hype is getting silly for an 18-year-old centre-back on loan at Hamburg. We chat through what makes him so dominant, why his aerial numbers are outrageous, how he plays off both feet, and why he keeps popping up with goals like he’s a striker. We also get into the one obvious weakness in his profile, whether he can handle the Premier League right now, and what Spurs even do if he comes back when Romero and Van de Ven are already nailed-on starters. Plus a quick detour into what smart development actually looks like and why rushing the steps is rarely worth it.

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S2E25 | FrankBall - Risk Isn’t What You Think It Is

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 15:40:00 -0000

We’re back with Harry Brooks to talk about what football’s turned into, why so many players default to the safe option, and how control has started squeezing the life out of decision making, even at youth level. Then we drag it back to Spurs, what Thomas Frank might be getting wrong, why “process vs outcome” matters, and why the club feels like it’s trying routes and patterns without a real foundation underneath. We also get into what “risk” actually is, why U-shape football drives us mad, Brennan Johnson’s place in the system, and why every player Harry speaks to says the same thing about Archie Gray.

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S2E24 | Spurs, The Media And The Mix Zone

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 16:38:00 -0000

We’re joined by journalist Tom Barclay for a look behind the curtain. We start with Mo Salah’s explosive mix zone interview, the panicking Liverpool press officer and what life is really like in those corridors after full time. Then it’s Spurs: Vicario getting booed, Thomas Frank calling out “true Tottenham fans”, the tension around performances and why supporters still crave moments and vibes as much as XG. We finish on Brentford, Xavi Simons, Spurs’ search for a left winger, January rumours and a quick plug for Tom’s Spurs book Miracle in Bilbao.

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S3E23 | The Tactical Handbrake: Frank’s Spurs Under the Microscope

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 16:39:00 -0000

We got Kish from LilywhiteLab on to dig into Thomas Frank and the big question around Spurs right now. Why are we so blunt in attack? Why are the tactics so conservative when we have the talent to play a more ambitious brand of football? We go through the double pivot obsession, the back five against Arsenal, and what Frank got wrong with Bentancur and Pallinia sitting in front of it. We ask whether this is about the manager, the personnel, or the hangover from finishing seventeenth last season. And most importantly, we talk about what needs to change if Spurs are going to look like a team that can create big chances again. Can Frank do it, and what would it take to unlock this squad?

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S3E22 | Why We Hate Arsenal

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 17:48:00 -0000

Back in 2021, Spooky and Flav sat down to try and figure out something that’s been baked into supporting Tottenham for generations: why do we hate Arsenal so much? This episode digs into the roots of it all, from the early days of the rivalry to how it plays out in the modern game. What’s interesting now is listening back with a bit of distance and asking whether anything has really changed since we recorded it. The context has shifted, the clubs have shifted, but that feeling between the two fanbases is still very real. We thought it was worth bringing this one out again because there’s still loads in here that stands up. If you’re into the history, the culture, or just the raw emotion of Spurs Arsenal, you’ll get something out of this. Enjoy.

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S3E21 | Burnley to Bilbao: Rob Daly on Goals, Noise and Narrative

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 20:37:00 -0000

In this one we sit down with Spurs commentator Rob Daly, the voice living rent free in all our heads after Bilbao. We chat about how he finds the right words in the biggest moments, the art of shutting up and letting the crowd breathe, Clive Allen nearly in tears, academy kids changing games from nowhere, and why podcasts are his cheat code for understanding fan mood. It is a proper love letter to commentary, to Spurs, and to that night in Bilbao.

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S3E20 | The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Boxing

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 17:13:00 -0000

This episode on The Lab we took a little detour from our usual look into Tottenham Hotspur culture. We had the chance to sit down with Eddie Hearn and Spurs fan, Commonwealth title holder and British title challenger Sam Gilley. Sam is gearing up for his fight at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on the undercard of Chris Eubank versus Conor Benn 2, so we got into everything around the event, the buildup, the atmosphere, and what it means for him at this stage of his career. Eddie gave us great insight into the promotion side and why this fight matters. It’s a different kind of episode for us but a really fun one to record, and a proper look behind the curtain of a big night in British boxing at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

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S3E19 | Was It Player Mutiny Than Won Us The Europa League?

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 14:53:00 -0000

We sit down with journalist and author Tom Barclay to unpack Miracle in Bilbao: The Inside Story of the Europa League Triumph, Clowngate, and what really changed tactically in Europe. We talk press room dynamics, Ange’s spiky side, and why the Europa League run was more plan than player mutiny. We get into Thomas Frank’s pragmatism, creativity concerns, and the fan mood at home, plus the Levy shock and how it blindsided everyone outside the club.

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S3E18 | Booing, xG, and an Identity Crisis with Dan Kilpatrick

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 18:15:00 -0000

On The Lab we’re joined by Dan Kilpatrick from The Athletic to look at where Spurs are heading under Thomas Frank. We talk about the defensive foundations being built, the exciting talent still to come back, and how key players like Kulusevski can transform the attack. We get into midfield tweaks, Xavi Simons’ potential, and the big opportunities ahead in the January window with fresh backing from the Lewis era. Plenty of reasons to believe this can still turn into a strong season.

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SE3E17 | From Concourse to Stands: Building a Proper Home Atmosphere

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:50:00 -0000

Billie joins us representing Change For Tottenham, discussing a fan-led movement to revive the home atmosphere at Spurs. Working alongside Return of the Shelf and THFCFlags, supporters are pushing for a unified singing section, better engagement from the club, and a stadium experience that reflects the passion of Tottenham Hotspur fans.

From European away days with flags travelling alongside the team, to the legacy of the 1882 movement and grassroots mobilisation, we explore why the atmosphere has dipped, how ticket prices affect younger fans, and the massive opportunity presented by the Chelsea match.

This is a movement built on unity, noise, and supporters taking the lead to restore Tottenham’s identity at home.

Come on you Spurs.

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S3E16 | Why We Do The Fighting Cock

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 18:27:00 -0000

This week on The Lab feed I’m sharing something a little different. Iain from the excellent Poddingham Podspur invited me on to talk about how The Fighting Cock began, why I started The Lab, and what drives me to keep making Spurs content. I wasn’t planning to release this here since it was recorded for someone else’s show and it can feel a bit self-indulgent to talk about myself. But listening back, I think dedicated Fighting Cock and Lab listeners might enjoy the behind-the-scenes chat. Hopefully it offers some insight and a few laughs. And go check out Poddingham Podspur too.

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S3E15 | “We Knew We Were Winning It” - Ben Haines on Bilbao, Ange, and Frank

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 08:18:00 -0000

Spurs presenter Ben Haines joins The Lab to talk about the Europa League win in Bilbao, how the “Winners” documentary came together, and what changed inside the club under Vinai Venkatesham and Thomas Frank. We get into Ange’s standards, Thomas Frank’s culture work, analysts clipping live during matches, and why increased access has lifted trust among supporters. Ben also shares the story behind Sonny’s emotional farewell interview and what it takes to ask bold questions when you only have ten minutes with a player.

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S3E14 | Tottenham’s New Power Map: Paratici, Lange and Vinai

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 15:18:00 -0000

We’re joined on The Lab by Anatole Pang to break down Tottenham’s rapid front-office rebuild. We unpack the Lewis family’s stance on takeover bids, why we believe Spurs have created twin “sporting director” roles for Fabio Paratici and Johan Lange, how Vinai Venkatesham is centralising power as CEO, and what all this means for transfers, wages, set pieces, and Tottenham’s long-term football identity.

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S3E13 | Hotshot Spurs: Hoddle, Hummel and the Hazards of the 80s

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 10:31:00 -0000

We’re joined by author Gareth Dace to dive into Tottenham Hotspur’s most formative decade. From Keith Burkinshaw’s progressive blueprint and the revolutionary arrivals of Ardiles and Villa, to Archibald and Crooks igniting White Hart Lane, the sale of Chris Waddle to Marseille, Clive Allen’s 49-goal season, and that deafening 1984 UEFA Cup shootout, this is Spurs in the 80s in full color. We get into Irving Scholar’s vision, the PLC era, Hummel, the Shelf stand rebuild, hooliganism, and the Alan Sugar vs Terry Venables fallout. Gareth’s new book Hotshot Tottenham: Spurs in the 80s – Hoddle, Hummel and Hazards charts the glory and the chaos. He’s also launched a nostalgia pod, Is Gascoigne Gonna Have a Crack?, with Darren Anderton as the first guest. If you love Tottenham history, this one’s catnip.

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S3E12 | Tottenham’s £100m: What It Really Means

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 15:08:00 -0000

We're joined by football finance expert Ben White to unpack Tottenham’s £100 million capital injection from the Lewis family. We explain why it is being done as a share issue rather than a loan, how amortisation and PSR shape what Spurs can actually spend, the Macquarie cash-advance story, and why Chelsea’s model is risky. We also talk timing, ownership intent, January vs summer windows, and what success looks like over the next three to five years.

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Pragmatism, The Ten Role, And Takeovers: We Look Back At Frank's Start At Tottenham

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 15:07:00 -0000

We’re joined by The Athletic’s Dan Kilpatrick for a wide-ranging chat on Ange Postecoglou’s spell and the hangover at Forest, Thomas Frank’s pragmatic start, Xavi Simons’ early impact, Richarlison vs Tell, and what ENIC’s next move could look like. We also get into the US ownership question, Premier League voting blocs, and how the club’s summer hinted at a shift in ambition.

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S3E11 | Sportswashing & Spurs: What Would You Tolerate?

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 15:44:00 -0000

Hello and welcome back to The Lab. Today we’re talking about something that’s uncomfortable but important: the ethics of who owns our football clubs. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Firehawk – and yes, ENIC/Tavistock. What do reputable human‑rights organisations actually say? What can PSR stop – and what can’t it? And what does any of this mean for Spurs? I’m joined by Jake Wieczorek, who works in human‑rights and democracy assessment. No lectures – just information, context and a conversation.

Read Jake's article here: https://thefightingcock.co.uk/2025/09/success-at-all-costs-a-deep-dive-into-the-ethical-records-of-spurs-current-and-prospective-owners/

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S3E10 | Thomas Frank’s Spurs Revolution with Adam Clery

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:19:00 -0000

Thomas Frank’s adaptability, Xavi Simons’ star power, and Spurs’ new set piece edge. In this episode of The Lab, we're joined by journalist and creator Adam Clery from The Adam Clery Football Channel to dig into what Tottenham’s summer really changed.

We break down why Simons is a “nightmare” and a genuine floor raiser, how Frank’s flexible approach contrasts with Postecoglou’s, and why Spurs’ set piece surge is more Brentford blueprint than copycat. Adam explains why Mohamed Kudus feels like the signing big clubs should have made, and we stress test the optimism by asking what happens if Romero or Van de Ven get injured.

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S3E09 | The Next Steps After Levy

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 09:23:00 -0000

A deep dive into Tottenham Hotspur as a modern business. Private equity professional and lifelong Spurs fan Anatole Pang joins to unpack what a £4–5bn football company should look like, why Tottenham still feels under-structured, the role a true Director of Football should play, how Paratici and Lange fit, what the Gibb River review signals, and how valuation and cash flow actually work in football. We also touch on whether the club is really “for sale,” how owners think about operational reform, and why governance and delegation matter as much as transfer spend.

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S3E08 | When the Final Whistle Blows: Glory, Grief and Spurs with Andrew Pettifer

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:19:00 -0000

Author Andrew Pettifer joins The Lab to talk about his new book When the Final Whistle Blows: Glory, Grief and Tottenham Hotspur. It is a season-long memoir of following Spurs with the OzSpurs community in Sydney, and a tribute to Cameron White, a beloved chapter lead whose final days coincided with European glory. We get into fandom from afar, why belonging matters more than trophies, the chaos of 5 a.m. kickoffs, and why Andrew is donating all proceeds to cancer research at a Sydney hospital. It is a conversation about football, friendship and what remains after the whistle.

Listener note: This episode includes discussion of cancer and voluntary assisted dying.

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S3E07 | We Rate The Transfer Window

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 12:34:00 -0000

Tottenham’s summer 2025 transfer window was full of peaks and troughs, ending with a squad that feels reshaped and refreshed. The arrivals of Mathys Tel, Kevin Danso, Kōta Takai, Mohammed Kudus, João Palhinha, Xavi Simons, and Randal Kolo Muani addressed key areas, though questions remain about depth at centre-back and the absence of a true left winger. Kudus looks ready to make an immediate impact, Simons is viewed as a special talent, and Palhinha adds vital steel. Luka Vuskovic’s loan shows maturity, while Daniel Levy’s role in the window is still debated. Spurs now look positioned for a top-five challenge.

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S3E06 | Why Xavi Simons Is An Incredible Signing For Spurs

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 16:15:00 -0000

We sat down with Ben Bowman and Kish from Lilywhite Lab to dive into Tottenham’s huge capture of Xavi Simons. We break down what makes him such a special talent, why his ball-carrying, creativity, and mentality set him apart, and how Thomas Frank could build a side around him. We also look at where he fits with Brennan Johnson, Mohammed Kudus, and the rest of Spurs’ attack, what this means for breaking down low blocks, and how the signing changes our ambitions this season. Is this the shift Spurs fans have been waiting for?

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S3E05 | Spurs Are Back… But Are We Backed?

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 13:40:00 -0000

We’ve started the season with a bang under Thomas Frank, beating Manchester City and showing the kind of tactical adaptability we’ve been crying out for. Mohammed Kudus and João Palhinha look like inspired signings, Richarlison is thriving, and for the first time in a while, we’re genuinely excited to watch Spurs. But alongside that optimism is the familiar frustration with transfers. We came close to landing Eberechi Eze only for the deal to collapse, leaving us short of creativity with Maddison and Kulusevski sidelined. Joining us to make sense of it all is Dan Kilpatrick, Tottenham correspondent for The Athletic.

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S3E04 | Has The Game Left Levy Behind?

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 12:58:00 -0000

In this episode of The Lab, we examine Daniel Levy’s place in the modern Premier League and whether his long-established approach can still deliver success for Tottenham Hotspur. With the transfer window in full swing, we assess Spurs’ business so far, the gap to their rivals, and the club’s ability to compete at the top under Levy’s cautious, opportunistic style. Joining us is Dan Kilpatrick, News Editor at The Athletic, who offers sharp analysis on Levy’s methods, Spurs’ squad building, and the challenges Thomas Frank faces in his first season. A frank, detailed look at where Tottenham stand and where they’re heading

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S3E03 | Transfer Politics: Spurs, Forest & the Power Struggle

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 11:31:00 -0000

On today’s show, we’re digging into the story that’s dominated Spurs Twitter this week. Tottenham believed they had met the £60 million release clause for Morgan Gibbs-White, only for Nottingham Forest and their owner, Evangelos Marianakis, to block the move.

Was the clause actually triggered? Did Forest act in bad faith? And where does this leave Spurs, a club trying to make serious moves in the market, when even clear contractual agreements seem to be up for interpretation?

To help make sense of it all, I’m joined by Greg from Forest Focus, who knows the inner workings of Nottingham Forest better than most. We’ll talk about Marianakis’s decision to reject the deal, how Forest fans view his leadership, and whether there’s any fear that his strong-arm tactics could one day damage the club’s Premier League status.

We’ll also discuss Morgan Gibbs-White himself, what kind of player Spurs were trying to sign, whether he wanted the move, and if he should have taken it further by involving the PFA.

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S3E02 | The South Stand Revolution: THFC Flags and the Future of Atmosphere

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 15:35:00 -0000

In this episode of The Lab, Sam Wilson from THFC Flags shares how a grassroots fan movement helped transform the atmosphere at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. From AJ Tracey-funded TIFOs to unforgettable European nights like Frankfurt and Bodo/Glimt, we explore the logistics, club collaboration, and impact on players. Sam also talks about working with Return of the Shelf and Spurs Song Sheet, the challenges of sustainability, and the ambition to unify the South Stand. If you've ever wondered how fan displays come together and why they matter, this episode lifts the lid on the passion behind the flags.

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S3E01 | Wages, Debt, and Daniel Levy

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 11:14:00 -0000

In this episode of The Lab, we’re joined by Anatole Pang, a Tottenham Hotspur supporter with a professional background in investment banking, private equity, and financial analysis. Anatole brings an investor’s perspective to the world of football finance, cutting through the noise to examine how clubs, especially Spurs, really operate behind the scenes. Together, we unpack five commonly held beliefs about Tottenham’s financial position: that the club is rich, spends big, has a restrictive wage structure, is already benefitting from the stadium, and is run by a great businessman in Daniel Levy. Drawing on detailed financial data and years of experience in corporate investment, Anatole challenges the assumptions that dominate fan discourse and media narratives alike. This is a deep dive into what football clubs are actually built on: operational cash flow, risk appetite, capital investment, and long-term planning. If you want to understand the real business of Spurs, this is the episode to listen to.

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S2E51 | Bridging the Gap: Spurs, the Trust & a New Era

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 08:08:00 -0000

On this episode of The Lab, Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust members Michael Green (Chair) and Steve Cavalier (Board Member and Fan Advisory Board representative) join to discuss the growing relationship between the club and its fans. They share insights from their recent meeting with new CEO Vinai Venkatesham, explain how the Fan Advisory Board operates, and discuss key issues including ticket pricing, atmosphere initiatives like Return of the Shelf, and supporter influence. They also explore Johan Lange’s recruitment strategy and the Trust’s five principles of ownership—used to measure and challenge the club’s performance on and off the pitch.

If you’re not already a member of THST, do consider joining us, as a full or associate member: https://www.thstofficial.com/membership.html

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S2E50 | Thomas Frank’s Tottenham: Shape-Shifting & Set Pieces

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 07:59:00 -0000

In this episode of The Lab, Ben Bowman returns to dig into how Thomas Frank could shape Tottenham Hotspur tactically. From the possibility of a back three to a more fluid 4-2-3-1, we unpack what Spurs’ summer transfer links reveal about Frank’s likely setup. We explore why players like Van de Ven, Romero, Destiny Udogie, Brennan Johnson, and Solanke could all flourish under Frank’s pragmatism. We also discuss Brentford’s elite set-piece approach, the marginal gains Frank obsessively pursues, and what it all means for Spurs' short- and long-term prospects.

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S2E49 | Mohammed Kudus: Tottenham's Next Game-Changer?

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 09:57:00 -0000

In this episode of The Lab, Ben Bowman joins us to break down Tottenham’s pursuit of Mohammed Kudus. We explore what makes Kudus such a unique talent: his one-on-one ability, explosiveness, versatility, and how he compares to Kulusevski. We discuss how Kudus could slot into Thomas Frank’s system, and why he might be the perfect fit for a transitional, fluid attack. We also react to West Ham fans’ frustration, examine the potential £60–85m price tag, and touch on Spurs’ broader recruitment strategy, including the signing of Kota Takai, squad depth, and the urgent need for a defensive midfielder.

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S2E48 | Behind the Curtain at Spurs: Ownership, Power & PSR

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 13:44:00 -0000

Football finance analyst and Spurs supporter Ben White joins The Lab to unpack the structure behind the scenes at Tottenham Hotspur. With clarity and depth, he explains how a small group of decision-makers run a global football club, breaking down the Lewis family's role, Daniel Levy’s evolving influence, the arrival of CEO Vino Venkatesham, and the financial mechanisms like PSR and structured payments. From misperceptions around cash flow to how Spurs compare with Chelsea and Brighton, this is essential listening for anyone who wants to understand how modern football clubs - and especially Tottenham - really operate.

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S2E47 | Inside Spurs with Alasdair Gold

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 19:54:00 -0000

In this episode of The Lab, we're joined by Alasdair Gold, Spurs correspondent for Football.London and one of the most trusted voices in the Tottenham community. We take a deep dive into the current state of the club, the transition from Ange Postecoglou to Thomas Frank, and what the future might hold under a new approach. Alasdair shares insights on transfer strategy, Daniel Levy’s influence, behind-the-scenes dynamics, and the challenges of covering Spurs as both a journalist and a fan. It’s a wide-ranging, honest, and revealing conversation with someone who knows the club inside out.

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S2E46 | Inside the Failed Qatari Bid for Tottenham

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 13:57:00 -0000

This episode of The Lab explores the behind-the-scenes story of a potential Qatari takeover of Tottenham Hotspur. Habibullah Khan, who has links to people close to the process, shares what he’s heard about how discussions progressed. The Qataris were reportedly keen on acquiring full ownership of the club and investing in the local area as part of a long-term UK strategy. Talks with Joe Lewis’s side seemed to move forward, but negotiations appeared to stall when Daniel Levy became more involved. Habib outlines a pattern of reported delays and changing demands, and offers a personal perspective on Levy’s leadership style and role in the club’s direction. The episode touches on soft power, ownership dynamics and the complexities that can block major change at Spurs. It’s a compelling look at what might have been, and what could still happen in the future.

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S2E45 | Why We Could Win The League Under Daniel Levy

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 17:28:00 -0000

Tottenham finally lifted a trophy under Ange Postecoglou, only to sack him 16 days later. In this episode of The Lab, we’re joined by Raj to break down Daniel Levy’s bold decision, the arrival of Thomas Frank, and what it all means for Spurs going forward. Can Levy really deliver on his claim that Tottenham can win the Premier League? Or is this another false dawn? We dig into whether the club’s long-term vision has any real foundation.

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S2E44 | Why Spurs Chose Frank, And What Comes Next

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 15:48:00 -0000

Thomas Frank is now Tottenham’s head coach, bringing an end to a long-running story that has had a big impact on both Spurs and Brentford. In this episode, we’re joined by Mike Johnston from the Ealing Road podcast to talk about what Frank will bring to Spurs beyond just tactics. We discuss his focus on building culture, developing young players, and the importance of his backroom staff. We also look at how his flexible style compares to Ange Postecoglou’s approach, and what this all means for Brentford’s future. It’s a deep look at one of the most interesting coaching changes in the Premier League.

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S2E43 | When The Year Ends In One

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 09:51:00 -0000

In this episode, we're joined by football writer Ewan Flynn to talk about his new book, When the Year Ends in One: How Tottenham Hotspur's 1991 FA Cup Win Saved the Club and Transformed English Football.

We look back at that dramatic season — from Gazza’s unforgettable moments to the chaos in the Spurs boardroom, Robert Maxwell’s attempted takeover, and how winning the FA Cup kept the club afloat.

Ewan also explains why the 1991 FA Cup run wasn’t just big for Spurs, but a turning point in English football as a whole. There are stories about Brian Clough, Chas & Dave, iconic kits, and a very different era of the game.

It’s a deep dive into a season that shaped the modern Spurs — and one of the last truly romantic chapters in English football history.

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S2E42 | Europa, Heartbreak, and Hope: The Ange Era in Full

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 11:39:00 -0000

In this episode, we welcome for the third time on The Lab, journalist and author Vince Rugari to reflect on the end of Ange Postecoglou’s time at Tottenham. We talk about the highs, the heartbreak, and the chaos of Ange’s two seasons in charge, including the unforgettable Europa League win and the collapse in the league. It’s a heartfelt goodbye to a unique manager who inspired loyalty, debate, and plenty of drama. If you loved Ange, this one’s for you. If not, maybe skip it.

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S2E41 | What Happens If Thomas Frank Does Join?

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 09:51:00 -0000

In this episode of The Lab, we're joined by lifelong Brentford fan and photographer Adam Rosenbaum to talk about Thomas Frank: his rise, his coaching style, and why he’s such a special manager. We discuss Brentford’s journey from the Championship to the Premier League, how Frank built a strong team culture, and what might happen if he ends up at Spurs. Adam shares stories from Griffin Park, thoughts on Matthew Benham’s data-driven model, and what makes Frank different from other managers, and crucially would a move to Tottenham be a successful venture for all involved.

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S2E40 | The Hero Or The Clown

Wed, 28 May 2025 09:58:00 -0000

In this episode of The Lab, we welcome Dan Kilpatrick, former Chief Football Correspondent at the Evening Standard and now newly of The Athletic, for a candid conversation about his career move and a dramatic week in the world of Tottenham Hotspur.

As Spurs celebrate a historic Europa League triumph, Dan reflects on his final articles for the Standard, and one piece that drew a sharp public rebuke from manager Ange Postecoglou. We explore the fine line journalists walk when balancing honest critique with the inevitable reaction from those they cover, and ask: was the line between "hero and clown" fair, and why did it provoke such a response?

We also dive into the wider questions now facing Spurs. Does European success outweigh domestic underachievement? What does Daniel Levy’s silence say about leadership at the club? And will Postecoglou finally get the backing he needs to build a lasting legacy, or is this yet another pivot point destined to end in short-term thinking?

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S2E39 | "Why I'm Levy In"

Tue, 06 May 2025 09:12:00 -0000

Raj, a lifelong Spurs fan and season ticket holder, joins The Lab podcast to defend Daniel Levy’s Spurs tenure with a data-led but emotional perspective. They cover long-term progress, missteps like Mourinho and Conte, financial constraints, and fan frustration. Raj argues Levy’s cautious strategy has kept Spurs competitive and ethical amid football’s murky ownership landscape. They also explore Ange Postecoglou’s future, poor club communications, and ticket pricing myths. A thoughtful, passionate conversation about what it means to support Spurs the right way.

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S2E38 | The Secret World Of Football Comms

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 13:23:00 -0000

On today’s episode of The Lab, I’m joined by Ian Taylor, a seasoned communications expert who’s held senior roles at Queens Park Rangers and West Ham United. We dive into the realities of football communications — from dealing with leaks and managing crises to working with managers, players, and fans. Ian shares his insights on how clubs handle breaking scandals, why fan-led media is changing the landscape, and what it’s really like behind the scenes when chaos hits. Whether you’re inside the game or looking in from the outside, this is a rare look into football’s hidden conversations.

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S2E37 | Luca Williams-Barnett & the New Breed at Spurs

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 11:21:00 -0000

Tottenham’s academy has produced talent for generations, but is it still delivering? In this episode of The Lab, we’re joined by John from Lilywhite Rose to dissect the current state of Spurs’ youth setup. We cover recent successes, the rise and stall of Mikey Moore, Jamie Donley’s first-team prospects, and the impact of big-name arrivals like Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray. Has the club lost faith in its own pipeline? And what about exciting prospects like Luca Williams-Barnett? With deep insight and no holding back, this is your inside look at whether the future of Tottenham is truly homegrown.

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S2E36 | The Inevitability Of It All

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 09:46:00 -0000

In this episode of The Lab, we’re joined by Dan Kilpatrick, Chief Football Correspondent at The Standard, for an in-depth discussion on the current state of Tottenham Hotspur. We explore the pressures facing Ange Postecoglou, the growing scrutiny on Daniel Levy, and the wider structural issues impacting the club’s direction. Dan shares his perspective on covering Spurs through a turbulent season, the challenges of press room dynamics, and the implications of potential change behind the scenes.

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S2E35 | Football Fandom: Why We Follow Tottenham

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 12:06:00 -0000

In this episode, I’m joined by journalist and author David Hillier, whose brilliant Men’s Health article explores the emotional chaos of football fandom – something every Tottenham fan knows all too well. We get into why we follow this club, what it costs us, and why walking away – even when it might be good for us – is never an option. From childhood loyalty to group chats and post-match meltdowns, this is a conversation about identity, obsession, community and belonging. Why Spurs? Why any team?

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S2E34 | How Tottenham Win The Europa League

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 10:18:00 -0000

We sit down with Andy Brassell to figure out how Tottenham win the Europa League despite having the worst season in decades.

Andy Brassell is a European football expert, broadcaster, and writer known for his insightful analysis across BBC, talkSPORT, and The Guardian. Fluent in multiple languages, he brings deep knowledge of continental football, offering sharp commentary on tactics, culture, and players, with a particular passion for Portuguese, French, and German leagues.

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S2E33 | The Price Of Tottenham ft Kieran Maguire

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 18:04:00 -0000

Kieran Maguire is the go-to voice when it comes to football finance — whether it’s untangling FFP, breaking down club accounts, or explaining how teams like Chelsea can keep spending without (apparently) breaking the rules. He’s a lecturer in football finance at the University of Liverpool, co-host of the Price of Football podcast, and author of the book by the same name.

If you’ve ever seen a financial headline in football and thought, “What does that actually mean?”, chances are Kieran’s already explained it better than anyone else.

With Daniel Levy recently publishing Tottenham’s latest financial results — including a dip in revenue, a collapse in UEFA prize money, and ongoing commercial growth — we thought it was the perfect time to dig into the numbers and ask what it all means for Spurs moving forward.

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S2E32 | Change For Tottenham: What Next

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 09:36:00 -0000

Apologies for the clipping on Billie's audio

Change for Tottenham's first protest was a success, garnering attention from media outlets across the globe. What follows next is important. Billie explains...

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S2E31 | What Is Levy's Next Move?

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:51:00 -0000

Will Ange Postecoglou last the season? Is Pochettino being lined up? And what does Daniel Levy do to protect his position? Chief Football Correspondent for the Standard, Dan Kilpatrick, is back on The Lab.

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S2E30 | Why Qatari Investors Have Tottenham In Their Sights

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 13:26:00 -0000

Is Tottenham Hotspur on the verge of a Qatari takeover? Reports suggest that Qatari investors are eyeing a stake in the club, raising big questions about what this could mean for Spurs' future. But why Tottenham? What makes the club an attractive investment compared to other Premier League teams? And how does this potential deal fit into Qatar’s wider strategy of expanding its influence in global sports?

In this episode, we’ll explore the motivations behind Middle Eastern investment in football, how a Qatari takeover would compare to Saudi and Abu Dhabi ownership, and whether Daniel Levy would remain in control. Crucially, we’ll also consider the concerns—should fans be excited or worried? Will this transform Tottenham into genuine title contenders, or does it pose ethical and financial dilemmas?

Join us as we break down the facts, the speculation, and the potential impact of Qatari ownership on the future of Tottenham Hotspur.

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S2E29 | How Does A Qatari Takeover Change Tottenham?

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 17:38:00 -0000

What does a Qatari owned Tottenham look like? Do they buy the debt owed by the club? Does Daniel Levy remain at the at Spurs? How much money will be available for transfers? We discuss all with Ben White - a financial consultant who regularly takes a deep dive into the club's books.

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S2E28 | Will Daniel Levy Listen?

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 17:44:00 -0000

The Standard's chief football correspondent Dan Kilpatrick joins The Lab once again. In this episode we look back at the protests from the weekend, ponder their impact, guess Levy's next move, and look forward to a more settled Tottenham Hotspur squad.

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S2E27 | Change For Tottenham

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 11:47:00 -0000

On this episode of The Lab we welcome some of the people behind Change For Tottenham - a movement aimed to promote a change in the running of the Club going forward. What does that mean in reality, and how are they going to achieve it?

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S2E26 | Mason Melia - Tottenham's Bright Young Thing

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 14:14:00 -0000

Tottenham Hotspur have secured the signing of highly-rated Irish youngster Mason Melia, one of the brightest talents to emerge from the League of Ireland. At just 16, the St Patrick’s Athletic forward has already made history as the club’s youngest-ever senior goal scorer, attracting attention from top European clubs before Spurs won the race for his signature. In this episode, I’m joined by Irish sports journalist David Sneyd to discuss what makes Melia such an exciting prospect, his rapid rise in Irish football, and what Tottenham fans can expect from their newest young signing.

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S2E25 | Everything You Need To Know About Mathys Tel

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 14:19:00 -0000

We sit down with Finlay from @Counterpressers to discuss everything good about Mathys Tel, as well as some of the stuff he needs to work on.

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S2E24 | Tottenham - A View From A Neutral Fan

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 14:51:00 -0000

We sit down with Dan Cook, owner of @HLTCO and a Crystal Palace fan, to see what Tottenham Hotspur looks like from the outside in. Are we in as big a mess as we think we are? Is Daniel Levy actually doing a decent job? And should we have sacked Ange Postecoglou months ago?

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S2E23 | Infrastructure & Personnel

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 18:14:00 -0000

Dan Kilpatrick joins The Lab once again. We discuss behind closed doors activity at Tottenham, Scott Munn's role, what helping Postecoglou means, recruiting a medical team via LinkedIn, and why we need to hear more from the hierarchy at Tottenham.

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S2E22 | Why Are Tottenham So Injury Prone?

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 13:52:00 -0000

We sit down with Michael Green, Specialist rehabilitation physiotherapist for @p3rformhq, to discuss injuries in professional footballers, the political nature of player recovery, and why Tottenham Hotspur players are so injury prone.

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S2E21 | Tottenham's Number One

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 17:17:00 -0000

The Standard Chief Football Correspondent, Dan Kilpatrick, joins us once again to talk through the latest goings on at the Lane. In this episode we discuss the Club backing Ange 100%, his handling of the press after Newcastle, the signing of Antonin Kinsky, further January business, and why the next six weeks are crucial for Tottenham Hotspur.

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S2E20 | What We Need To Do In January

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 12:58:00 -0000

In this episode of The Lab we sit down with @LilywhiteLab to discuss how we use the January transfer window to fix immediate problems, and identify the players that could provide solutions in the short and mid term. We also ask the question: will our transfer targets change depending on whether Ange Postecoglou remains in the job?

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S2E19 | Daniel Levy - A Groundswell Of Opposition

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 15:45:00 -0000

As Tottenham's season flounders, the floodlight of blame has landed on Daniel Levy once again. We discuss all with Chief football correspondent for The Standard, Dan Kilpatrick.

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S2E18 | Who Postecoglou Is

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 12:39:00 -0000

We're joined once again by Vince Rugari, one of Australia's leading sports journalists, and author of Ange Ball, the definitive biography of Ange Postecoglou. In this episode we dig further into understanding who Ange is, why he is unwavering in his principles, where his 'dogmatism' comes from, and why it always leads him to success.

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S2E17 | Why Tottenham Are Better Than We Think

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 12:23:00 -0000

We sat down with Professor Aaron, or you might know him as @ProfSpur on social media, to look at the numbers and data behind the performances, that prove that Tottenham are better than we think.

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S2E16 | Coping Without Vicario

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 15:28:00 -0000

We're joined by Dan Kilpatrick, Chief Football Correspondent for The Standard, to discuss the impact of Vicario's injury, moving for a new keeper in January, conversing with Ange in press conferences, and meeting Dejan Kulusevski in player/press mixed zone.

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S2E15 | The Rise And Rise Of Dejan Kulusevski

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 15:15:00 -0000

Welcome to The Lab. In this episode we're joined by James Allcott and Ben Bowman to explain why Dejan Kulusevski could be one of the best midfielders in Europe, and how there is no other quite like him.

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S2E14 | Amanda Staveley And Qatari Money

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 16:56:00 -0000

Welcome back to The Lab, we're talking about a topic that's on every Tottenham Hotspur fan’s mind: the prospect of Daniel Levy selling a 25% stake in the club to a potential Qatari investor.

We sit down with Dan White, a Consultant in Asset Management, to discuss what would this deal mean for the future of Spurs? Could it be a stepping stone toward a full takeover, or is it just a strategic partnership to help the club compete at the highest level financially?

We'll explore the power and influence a minority stake can have, and what this could mean for the club's day-to-day operations, from transfer spending to long-term branding strategies.

With Qatari investors already involved in European football through Paris Saint-Germain, could we see a global shift in Tottenham’s appeal? And how might this investment line up with Financial Fair Play regulations?

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S2E13 | More Than Football - Jim's Story

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 15:32:00 -0000

Jim was diagnosed with cancer in the same year he was supposed to be getting married. His diagnosis turned his life upside down. A certain football club helped him through. Now completely healthy, he's on a mission of his own.

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S2E11 | The Standard's Interview With Johan Lange

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 10:39:00 -0000

Welcome to today’s episode, where we’ll be diving into Tottenham Hotspur’s evolving recruitment strategy under the leadership of Johan Lange. Dan Kilpatrick, The Standard Chief Football correspondent recently spoke to the Spurs’ technical director, the first major interview since joining the club.

We’ll explore how Lange and head coach Ange Postecoglou are working together to build a squad that balances immediate competitiveness with long-term development.

We’ll take a closer look at how Lange managed to secure exciting young talent like Lucas Bergvall and Radu Dragusin, beating European giants like Barcelona and Bayern Munich to their signatures. We’ll also discuss Tottenham’s holistic approach to recruitment, which combines data-driven insights with traditional scouting, and how the club’s commitment to an attacking, front-foot style of play is influencing their choices.

We’ll also touch on the club’s more ruthless decision-making, and just what is Daniel Levy’s role in all of this. Stay tuned as we break down Tottenham’s strategic shift and what it means for the club moving forward.

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S2E10 | The Eye Test

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 15:03:00 -0000

In today’s football world, the debate between "the eye test" and data-driven analysis is more relevant than ever. Traditionally, the eye test – trusting what we see during a game – has guided decisions on tactics, player performance, and transfers. But with the rise of detailed statistics and analytics, is there still a place for gut instinct in the modern game? Can the eye test reveal nuances that data might miss, or has the role of instinct been diminished by numbers? In this episode, we’ll explore the history, relevance, and future of the eye test and its balance with data in football.

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S2E09 | What Watching Ange Ball For 10+ Years Will Teach You

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 15:49:00 -0000

Buy ANGEBALL now right here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Angeball-Definitive-Biography-Ange-Postecoglou/dp/1035417189

Welcome to today’s episode, where we’re thrilled to be joined by one of Australia’s most respected voices in sports journalism, Vince Rugari. Vince has built a stellar reputation for his insightful coverage and analysis, particularly in football, where his work has earned him recognition not just in Australia but internationally as well. As a senior sports journalist for The Sydney Morning Herald, he’s been at the forefront of reporting on some of the biggest stories in the sporting world.

But today, we’re here to dive deep into his latest project—his book Ange Ball, which explores the fascinating career of Ange Postecoglou. As one of the most influential and trailblasing football managers to come out of Australia, Postecoglou’s journey from the A-League to European football, and now to Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League, is nothing short of remarkable. Vince’s book captures the essence of that journey and the philosophy that has made ‘Ange Ball’ a global talking point.

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S2E08 | Is Daniel Levy A Good Owner?

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 16:11:00 -0000

Welcome to this special episode, originally recorded in 2022, featuring Nick Harris of @sportingintel. Known for his expertise in sports business, analytics, and investigative journalism, Nick offers unique insights into Premier League spending rules and how financial regulations shape the competition. We also explore Daniel Levy's tenure as chairman of Tottenham Hotspur, analyzing whether he has been a good owner and the impact of his leadership on the club’s success and finances. Join us for a compelling conversation with one of the foremost authorities in sports investigation and analysis.

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S2E07 | A Neutral Fan's Assessment Of Tottenham

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 12:55:00 -0000

We sit down with Dan Cook of HLTCO for a third time to find out his unbiased takes on where Tottenham Hotspur are right now...

Listen to twice weekly podcast Football Between The Lines hosted by both Flav and Dan.

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S2E06 | Postecoglou And The Press

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 14:18:00 -0000

We sit down with chief football correspondent for The Standard, Dan Kilpatrick to discuss how Ange handles the media, how social media has changed the way football is reported, the way transfers are covered and industry behind it, and why no one knew that Odobert was signing.

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S2E05 | Why Wilson Odobert Ticks All The Boxes

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 17:25:00 -0000

Wilson Odobert signs for Spurs for £25m. He's young, he's classy, and most importantly he has everything we don't currently have in our front line.

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S2E04 | Solanke - A Bournemouth Fan's Perspective

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 17:14:00 -0000

We sit down with Tom Jordan of Theafcbpodcast to chat through Tottenham's big money move for Domonic Solanke. What does he have that we don't appreciate? Can he score 20 league goals for Spurs? Is £65m too much?

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S2E03 | How Ange Improves Spurs This Season

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 11:30:00 -0000

We sit with Celtic fan and podcaster Laura Bradburn to discuss the differences between Ange Postecoglou's first season at Celtic, and his second... were there less injuries? Was the defence so open? Did individual players improve? Listen to find out.

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S2E02 | Why Dominic Solanke Could Be The Answer...

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 17:37:00 -0000

The reaction from the our fanbase wasn't great when news broke that Tottenham are taking a serious look at Dominic Solanke... here's why you should think differently about the Bournemouth forward.

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S2E01 | What Is So Special About Mikey Moore?

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 23:00:00 -0000

The Lab is back for season two. In this episode we decide how many minutes Moore should be given next season, whose position he'll take, what's so special about him, and how high is his ceiling?

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S01E20 | How A Neutral Fan Sees Tottenham Again

Tue, 07 May 2024 14:38:00 -0000

HLTCO's Dan Cook returns to The Lab to revisit Tottenham Hotspur and Ange Postecoglou after a less than perfect last month.

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S01E19 | FFP, Tottenham Hotspur and Daniel Levy

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 15:52:00 -0000

We sat down with football finance enthusiast Ben White, to understand how Tottenham are set up to benefit from PSR and FFP regulation, how the changes to the rules next season impact Spurs, and how much trouble other clubs are in.

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S1E18 | Tottenham Hotspur And The Crazy 90s

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 15:09:00 -0000

Gareth Dace has written a book all about Tottenham Hotspur in the 90s, a decade that saw the front five of Ardiles, the Klinsmann and Sheringham connection, the 12 point deduction and being kicked out the FA Cup, two trophy wins through mediocrity, and a true era of the maverick footballer.

Get your copy of Is Gascoigne Going to Have a Crack?: Spurs in the 90s, Magic, Mayhem and Mediocrity here

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S01E17 | How We Fix The Leaky Defence

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 11:45:00 -0000

Big chances, big mistakes, silly goals. How does Postecoglou fix Tottenham's leaky defence?

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S01E16 | Geoff Shreeves - The Art Of Touchline Journalism

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:37:35 -0000

We sat down with the iconic Geoff Shreeves to discuss a career spent interviewing the greatest managers of the Premier League era in their most vulnerable moments... after the final whistle.

Listen to Geoff's new podcast Football, Music and me.

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S01E15 | What Number 9 Should We Sign?

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 10:19:17 -0000

Ben Bowman and Flav look at a number of high profile forwards available this Summer, and decide which one suits Tottenham best... Or do we already have a solution in house?

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S01E14 | The Kulusevski Conundrum

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 16:35:00 -0000

What's going on with our ginger from Sweden? Can he play centrally? Is his form an issue? And why we must back him.

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S01E13 | Understanding Kneejerkers

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0000

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We sit down with Spooky to try and understand why football fans kneejerk, discuss whether it's especially a problem at Tottenham, and find out who is to blame.

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S01E12 | Postecoglou - Why it's working

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 15:51:00 -0000

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Ange Postecoglou's Tottenham is moving towards the end of it's first season. Joined by Ben Bowman, we discuss the progress that Big Ange is making.

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S01E11 | What Statistics Tell Us About Tottenham's Season

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 12:49:28 -0000

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We sit down with Baker from Above Average FPL to discuss the impact of FPL on following football, what statistics tell about about Tottenham's season, and why Haaland wouldn't score more goals for Spurs than Richarlison.

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S01E10 | How We Improve The Squad This Summer

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 13:31:00 -0000

We sit down once again with @BenBowman to discuss how we improve the squad, and what players we need to bring in this Summer transfer window

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S01E09 | Why players choose Tottenham

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 13:33:58 -0000

We're joined by @CDEccleshare of The Athletic to discuss how the structure of Tottenham and the vision of Postecoglou means that players are turning down Europe's elite to come to Spurs.

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S01E08 | Tottenham Through A Lens

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 18:47:00 -0000

What's it like to fall in love with Tottenham from across the globe, move to London and then follow them them home and away. Add to that the idea to capture the team's success and failure through the lens of a camera with the fans in full focus. We sit down with Sam Cornish.

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S01E07 | The Starboy Lucas Bergvall

Sun, 04 Feb 2024 17:25:00 -0000

What kind of player is Lucas Bergvall? What is his ceiling? How quickly will we see him in a Spurs shirt? And why is this such a statement signing?

All discussed with Kish Patel of LilywhiteLab and Rondo Report

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S01E06 | How A Neutral Fan Sees Tottenham

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 11:54:00 -0000

We sit down with Dan of @HLTCO to find out what a neutral fans think about Postecoglou, Daniel Levy and what is happening at Tottenham.

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S01E05 | Why We Want Antonio Nusa

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 11:06:00 -0000

We sit down with Kish of @LilyWhiteLab and Coaches Voices to discuss why Tottenham are ready to pay €30m for Antonio Nusa.

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S01E04 | How Postecoglou Proved He Is Elite

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 10:48:00 -0000

After ten games Tottenham Hotspur were top of the league with eight wins and two draws, but it's the last three months with a decimated squad that followed where Postecoglou proved he was one of the best in Europe.

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S01E03 | How Good Is Tottenham's Academy?

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 10:47:00 -0000

*Recorded in November

A while back we sat down with youth expert Ben Bowman to look at Tottenham's academy, profiling Dorrington, Moore, Donely and Phillips

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S01E02 | Dragusin and Werner

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 13:12:27 -0000

We look at the signings of both Dragusin and Werner and discuss how they will change Tottenham.

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S01E01 | The Impact of Postecoglou

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 18:44:00 -0000

We speak with football coach Harry Brooks on the impact Big Ange has had on his players, what Sarr does, the qualities in Lo Celso, how Maddison was made even better, the inverted full backs, why positions are not important and the relative strength of the squad.

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Welcome to The Lab

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 13:39:50 -0000

Brought to you by the lads at The Fighting Cock, The Lab is a Football podcast that encourages in depth conversation on subject matter that ranges from tactics, to transfer deals, how injuries are treated, to an agent's role, to content creators, to coaches, and much more. Essentially The Lab is a podcast that talks about everything around the pitch, not just just what happens on it.

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