Scottish Football Podcast

Celtic are the reigning Premiership champions, but optimism around Parkhead is in short supply. Charlotte Cohen is joined by Herald sports writer Stephen McGowan and Celtic supporter Asim Rabbani to discuss a dramatic title triumph, the emotional final-day victory over Hearts and why many supporters remain deeply frustrated despite ending last season on top. The panel examine Martin O'Neill's return for another year, concerns over recruitment, the lack of transfer activity ahead of a crucial Champions League qualifier and uncertainty surrounding several key players. There's also discussion around Callum McGregor's future, the influence of decision-makers behind the scenes and whether Celtic have learned the lessons from previous transfer windows. After winning the league in dramatic fashion, can the champions build on success or are familiar problems threatening to hold them back?

After a solid but ultimately unspectacular seventh-place finish, Dundee United head into the new season determined to kick on. Andrew Petrie is joined by Courier columnist Jim Spence and The Dode Fox Podcast's Ronny Costello to discuss a summer of change at Tannadice. The panel assess Jim Goodwin's future, the growing expectation of a more attacking style of play, and whether key signings such as Dylan Tait and the returning Jack Walton can help United move forward. They also reflect on the departures of influential figures including Amar Fatah and Luca Stephenson, debate the club's recruitment strategy and shine a spotlight on exciting academy prospect Cohen Leiper after his eye-catching start to the campaign. With hopes of a top-six finish and pressure building for progress, can Dundee United find the consistency they lacked last season?

Hearts came agonisingly close to the ultimate prize before suffering heartbreak on the final day of last season. Now, a new chapter begins at Tynecastle. Andrew Petrie is joined by Heart Standard editor Joel Sked and former Hearts defender Ryan McGowan to examine one of the most dramatic summers in recent club history. The panel discuss the departure of Derek McInnes, Lawrence Shankland and Cammy Devlin, the arrival of new head coach Wouter Vrancken, and how Hearts' relationship with the Jamestown analytics model continues to shape recruitment. There's also debate over the futures of key players, including Claudio Braga, optimism around the return of Ajeu, and discussion about what progress should look like in a season of transition. After months of upheaval, can Hearts maintain their place among Scotland's leading clubs and take another step forward?

Richard Gordon is joined by Falkirk manager John McGlynn ahead of the new season and we chat World Cup with Pat Nevin, Derek Ferguson, Moira Gordon and Peter Wright.

Kilmarnock head into the new Premiership season with optimism growing after a remarkable turnaround under Neil McCann. Charlotte Cohen is joined by Sandy Armour of the Killie Hippo and Callum Scott from the Forever and Ever podcast to discuss how Killie recovered from a difficult start to last season and why supporters are feeling positive again. The panel reflect on Stewart Kettlewell's departure, McCann's impact, the influence of January signings such as Joe Hugill and Findlay Curtis, and a summer rebuild that includes the return of Mark O'Hara and exciting new faces. They also assess the move back to a grass pitch, the club's ambitious training ground project and what success would look like this season. With top-six hopes beginning to grow, can Kilmarnock build on their strong finish and keep moving forward?

Who will win promotion? Who could surprise everyone? And who might be in for a long season? Craig Telfer and John Walker join Charlotte Cohen for a comprehensive preview of League One and League Two. Ross County's immediate promotion hopes, Hamilton's recruitment drive, East Kilbride's first full SPFL campaign and a fiercely competitive League Two all come under the microscope. With predictions for the biggest movers, top scorers and managers to watch, there's plenty for Scottish football fans to get excited about before the action begins.

After a turbulent campaign that swung from Scottish Cup glory to relegation worries, Aberdeen head into a new season with Stephen Robinson at the helm and a major rebuild underway. Charlotte Cohen is joined by Aberdeen fan Beth Wallace and Press & Journal chief sports writer Ryan Cryle to reflect on the end of the Jimmy Thelin era, the challenges facing the club and the expectations for the months ahead. The panel discuss a busy summer of recruitment, the search for goals, concerns over last season's defensive frailties and how Robinson wants his side to play. They also assess the pressure on the manager, the role of key players like Kevin Nisbet and Toyosi Olusanya, and whether the Dons can re-establish themselves as contenders for Europe.

After another turbulent season, Rangers head into a new campaign under Derek McInnes with renewed optimism. Scott Cameron and Andy Halliday explore how the club has changed since the end of last season, why Lawrence Shankland could be a transformative signing, and what further recruitment is needed before the transfer window closes. They also discuss the futures of key players, the rise of Findlay Curtis and the growing influence of familiar faces returning behind the scenes. The big question remains the same: can Rangers close the gap at the top and reclaim major honours?

After exceeding all expectations with a top-six finish in their first season back in the Premiership, Falkirk are preparing for a new challenge. Charlotte Cohen is joined by journalist Gordon Waddell and Falkirk fan Craig Cruickshanks to look ahead to the campaign, discussing the impact of key departures including Calvin Miller and Barney Stewart, the club's continued success in developing young talent, and the importance of another strong recruitment window. The conversation also turns to John McGlynn's remarkable work at Falkirk and whether his achievements should put him in contention for the Scotland job. Plus, predictions for the season ahead, player of the year picks and the mood around the club as another Premiership campaign approaches.

St Mirren head into the new season as League Cup winners, but after a dramatic campaign that ended with playoff survival, a fresh chapter is underway in Paisley. Host David Currie is joined by former Saints midfielder Ryan Flynn and Pie & Bovril's Div MacDonald to reflect on Stephen Robinson's legacy, Craig McLeish's appointment and a summer of significant change. The panel discuss key departures, the search for goals, exciting new signings, the impact of Alex Gogic and Marcus Fraser, and whether St Mirren's academy graduates could have a bigger role to play. With optimism, intrigue and a little apprehension in the air, what can Saints fans expect from the season ahead?

With the Championship season fast approaching, Ray Bradshaw is joined by Kris Doolan and Craig Telfer for a club-by-club look at one of Scottish football's most competitive divisions. Can Livingston make an instant return to the Premiership? Will Gary Naysmith transform Ayr United into genuine contenders? And can Partick Thistle finally go one step further? The panel also assess Dunfermline, Raith Rovers, Morton, Inverness and newly-promoted Stenhousemuir before making their predictions for the season ahead. Expect optimism, debate and plenty of Championship football chat.

Richard Gordon, Callum Davidson and Hugh MacDonald chew over the World Cup as it reaches the last 16 stage and look ahead to the start of Scottish League Cup.

All the latest news from the World Cup and around Scottish football including who next for the national team manager, Neil Lennon, Robbie Neilson in China, transfers and much more

St Johnstone are back in the Premiership after an immediate return from the Championship, but what can Saints fans expect this season? Ray Bradshaw is joined by Danny Williams from the Dogger Saints podcast and actor Colin McCredie to assess the impact of Simo Valakari, a summer rebuild focused on hungry, ambitious players, and the importance of bringing Toby Stewart back between the sticks. The panel debate expectations for the campaign, concerns over season ticket changes, whether Saints can avoid a relegation battle, and if Simoball can make the step up. Plus, quick-fire predictions for player of the year, league position and much more.

After the shock resignation of Scotland manager Steve Clarke, we ask what happened, and who are the contenders for the job. With Richard Gordon, Darren Jackson and Moira Gordon.

Andy Burke, Pat Nevin and Tom English react to the news Steve Clarke has left his role as Scotland head coach after being eliminated from the World Cup

We pore over a disappointing World Cup campaign for Scotland, and ask what went wrong, and what can change? With Andy Burke, Pat Nevin, Willie Miller, Leanne Crichton and more.

After a bruising defeat to Brazil leaves Scotland’s World Cup hopes hanging by a thread, Jonathan Sutherland is joined by Stephen McGowan and Andy Halliday to ask the big questions.How did Scotland’s campaign unravel so quickly - and how much did costly individual errors play a part? Where does responsibility lie: with Steve Clarke, the players, or something deeper? Has this group reached its ceiling under the current manager? And what does the future look like with a lack of emerging talent coming through? The panel also asks what must change in youth development, structure and culture if Scotland are to compete at this level again.

Post-match reaction as Scotland's errors cost them dear against Brazil leaving their last 32 fate in the balance.

As Scotland face Brazil in the Miami heat, Jonathan Sutherland is joined by Tony Docherty and Scott Allan to ask the big questions ahead of what could be a defining World Cup night.How do Scotland avoid a repeat of the Hungary game at the Euros and instead seize a historic opportunity? Can Steve Clarke’s side cope with extreme conditions and keep their composure against Brazil’s attacking power?What is the right tactical setup - and who should start in midfield to give Scotland control?Plus can anyone stop Lionel Messi and who will win the Golden Boot? All the key questions ahead of a crucial clash.

Scotland head into a huge FIFA World Cup clash with Brazil knowing qualification is still within reach - but are they doing enough to grab it? Kenny Macintyre is joined by Kris Doolan and John Walker to pick apart the Morocco performance, the lack of attacking threat, and whether Scotland are showing Brazil too much respect.With Scott McTominay covering more ground than any other player in the World Cup but is it often too far from goal? How can we unlock Scotland’s biggest weapon? Is a back five the only option, or is there room to be braver?Plus, could Lionel Messi cut it in the Scottish leagues?

Kenny Macintyre is joined by Andy Halliday and Scott Allan to ask the big questions after Scotland’s narrow defeat to Morocco. What really went wrong in that performance, and were the tactics too passive?Is Steve Clarke getting enough out of a talented squad, or is there more to come? How should Scotland approach the Brazil game – and what changes are needed to stay in the tournament?And with knockout hopes still alive, can Scotland find a way through when it matters most?

Richard Gordon is joined by Craig Levein and Hugh Macdonald to preview Scotland v Brazil in Miami with South American football expert Tim Vickery and we ask how the World Cup is being received in the USA, with ESPN commentator Mark Donaldson.

Away from the World Cup, there's been plenty of domestic football news. We discuss Derek McIness' move to Rangers, who now for Hearts and Motherwell appoint their new manager.

The Sportsound team in Boston reflect on the night before where Scotland was defeated by Morocco in their second World Cup match.

Willie Miller, Leanne Crichton and Tom English assess Scotland's narrow defeat to Morocco, as Steve Clarke's side remain focused on reaching the knockout stage for the first time

Mere hours before Scotland face Morocco, Jonathan Sutherland is joined by Scott Allan and John Walker to break it all down—but what questions need answered before kick-off? Will Steve Clarke go with a back five or stick with a midfield-heavy setup?How do Scotland stay disciplined against Morocco’s pace and movement? Can they be brave enough on the ball to control the game in key moments? If Scotland fall behind, what changes can turn the tide? And if they take the lead, how do they hold on?Most importantly—can Scotland embrace the underdog tag and produce a famous World Cup result?01:35 - Pre-match Nerves and First Reactions Scott Allan and John Walker on why discipline and resilience could be everything for Scotland.04:46 - What Exactly Are Morocco Bringing? John Walker breaks down Morocco’s shape, movement and key threats, why they pose a very different challenge from Haiti.08:27 - Back Five or 4-5-1? Scotland’s Shape Debate We debate Steve Clarke’s likely setup, whether Scotland should go with a back five or pack midfield to contain Morocco.14:08 - If Scotland Go Behind, What Changes? What can we do if we need to chase the match.18:42 - Would Morocco Settle — and What If Scotland Lead? We discuss Morocco’s possible mindset late in the game and how Scotland should respond if they find themselves in front.23:26 - Can we control the game? Billy Gilmour’s absence, Lewis Ferguson’s role and the need for bravery in possession.

Kenny Macintyre is joined by Andy Halliday and Ryan Flynn to ask the big questions ahead of Scotland’s World Cup showdown. How should Steve Clarke set up against Morocco - stick or switch formation? Who gets the nod up front, and can Scotland play their way to the result they need?Away from Scotland, are the big stars - Mbappe, Messi, Haaland, Kane - beginning to take over the tournament?Plus is John McGlynn the obvious choice for the Tynecastle hot seat after McInnes' move to Rangers?

Kenny Macintyre is joined by Kris Doolan and Stephen MacGowan to break down Scotland’s World Cup opener - is the result looking better by the day? Should fans be encouraged by the three points or concerned by the performance? Are we seeing a tournament of shocks as big teams slip up, and how far can underdogs go? What changes should Steve Clarke make ahead of Morocco - and can Scotland take the point they need? Plus, with Derek McInnes set for Rangers, what does it mean for Ibrox and who’s next for Hearts - is Falkirk's John McGlynn the stand out candidate?

Is Derek McInnes about to become Rangers manager - and what would he bring to Ibrox? Host Jonathan Sutherland is joined by Rory Loy and Tony Docherty to break down the latest developments and ask whether mentality is the missing piece in the title race. Should Steve Clarke reshape his Scotland side for Morocco - and does that mean dropping Lawrence Shankland? How should Scotland approach one of the toughest tests in Group C? And with the feel-good factor growing, just how far can this squad go at the World Cup?

Scotland’s win over Haiti was something to celebrate - why did it feel so nervy, and what does that say about Steve Clarke’s side? Join Jonathan Sutherland with Andy Halliday and Scott Allan as they break it all down - so can Scotland afford another display like that against Morocco? With tougher tests ahead, is qualification already hanging in the balance? Plus, with Derek McInnes linked to Rangers, what does that mean for Hearts and the wider league? Big names, big stakes, and even bigger questions… are Scotland ready for what’s coming next?

Analysis and debate after Scotland's World Cup group stage win over Haiti, as Alasdair Lamont is joined by Leanne Crichton, Pat Nevin, Tom English, James McFadden and Neil McCann.

Players and pundits react to Scotland's resilient yet nervy win against Haiti in their opening World Cup match

Scotland’s last World Cup appearance still hits hard - and here, the voices who lived it take us right back. Joined by Saturday Show presenters Amy Irons and Steven Mill, Kevin Gallacher and Darren Jackson relive the emotion of France ’98. From lining up beside Ronaldo on at the opening game against Brazil to the noise, nerves and unforgettable atmosphere, it’s all here. There’s pride, pain and plenty of stories — from Craig Brown’s leadership to the Tartan Army following Scotland across France. With reflections on near-misses and heartbreak, this is a powerful look back at a defining moment in Scottish football history.

Jonathan Sutherland, Andy Halliday and Joelle Murray get a dose of World Cup fever as they review the opening ceremony and Joelle tells us she thinks Scotland will get 7 points!

Can Scotland finally make World Cup history? Ryan Christie joins Wayne to reveal why this squad believes it can achieve something no Scotland team ever has.Wayne explains why he’s backing Steve Clarke’s side to surprise people, opens up on Scott McTominay’s remarkable rise and questions whether Manchester United made a huge mistake by letting him leave. Could McTominay be the player who makes the difference?Plus, Christie reveals what makes this Scotland dressing room so special, the dream of facing Brazil on football’s biggest stage and why belief inside the camp has never been higher. Can Scotland finally get out of their group and prove everyone wrong?If you want to hear more from Wayne, Kelly Somers and Kae Kurd, you can get all the episodes here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0lwvsnc

Who should start in goal for Scotland’s World Cup opener—experience or form? Can Craig Gordon really get the nod at 43, or is it time for Angus Gunn to step up? Kenny Macintyre is joined by former Scotland goalkeeper Cammy Bell and analyst John Walker to tackle the biggest questions. What exactly should we expect from Haiti—and are we underestimating their pace, power and counter-attacking threat? Could Scotland be vulnerable if they go too open too early? And tactically, what’s the right call for Steve Clarke? Stick with a back five to protect against transitions, or go more attacking in a must-win game? With big decisions, real tension and the tournament finally here—how ready are Scotland for the biggest stage of all?

Ahead of the opener against Haiti, Kenny Macintyre is joined by Andy Halliday and Tony Docherty to ask the big questions. Who should start at the back, and which centre‑half partnership gives Scotland the best chance? Is the 4‑4‑2 now the system to stick with - and why has the front two clicked so quickly? How much does total player buy‑in really matter at a major tournament? And is Steve Clarke finally ready to enjoy the moment as Scotland head into the World Cup full of belief?

We run through Scotland’s striking options at the World Cup, ask if America has realised the tournament is taking place and what do we make of the spat with Norway? With Jonathan Sutherland, Stephen McGowan and Kris Doolan.

How have Scotland become a goal machine? Is John McGinn a guaranteed starter, and is Ben Gannon-Doak the finished article now? With Jonathan Sutherland, Robbie Neilson and Ryan Flynn.

Richard Gordon is joined by Callum Davidson and Tony Docherty in Glasgow, and Liam McLeod and James McFadden in New York, to look ahead to the World Cup kicking off on Thursday.

Willie Miller, Pat Nevin and Andy Halliday debate Steve Clarke's considerations when choosing his starting 11 for their World Cup opener against Haiti in Boston next Saturday.

Scotland’s World Cup countdown continues, but what does Steve Clarke really need from the final warm‑up against Bolivia in New Jersey: a result or simple survival in punishing conditions? How close should he go to his starting XI, and which key players need protected before the tournament begins? Is the goalkeeper jersey Craig Gordon’s to lose, or has Angus Gunn done enough to stake his claim? Has Lawrence Shankland forced his way into the conversation to start, or is his future impact still best felt from the bench? In the women's game - how crucial are the upcoming qualifiers against Israel and Hungary, and can leaders like Caroline Weir and Erin Cuthbert guide Scotland over the line? Finally, did St Mirren make the right call by backing Craig McLeish, and what can his appointment mean for the club’s direction next season?

We ask what the actual experience of being at a World Cup is like for players as Scotland’s Men prepare for their return after a 28-year absence. With Ray Bradshaw, Ryan McGowan and Craig Telfer.

In June 1998, Scotland kicked off the World Cup in Paris against the defending champions, Brazil. For the fans that were there, it was a day that they would never forget - and one that’s become Scottish football folklore after years of heartbreak. Rick Edwards is joined by Gordon, Paul and Iain to hear about that halcyon summer following their team across France and what marked the end of an era.You can find the whole series here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/series/p02nrsln

Is it too big? Is it too expensive? What will the experience of the 2026 World Cup be for players and fans? Plus, we get reaction to Haiti's friendly win over New Zealand and an update on the Celtic manager search. With Ray Bradshaw and Stephen McGowan.

The latest on the domestic transfer window – who is making moves...and who is yet to pounce? Plus we look at Scotland’s goalkeeping options for the World Cup. With Andy Burke, Cammy Bell and Gordon Waddell.

Has Lawrence Shankland given Scotland boss Steve Clarke a good headache? And there’s World Cup heartbreak for Billy Gilmour, with Charlotte Cohen, Kevin Thomson and Rory Loy.

Richard Gordon and the team look back on Rangers 0-1 Celtic at Hampden plus we hear from Steve Clarke and John McGinn

Post-match reaction as Shankland shines with a double over 10-man Curacao in Scotland's Hampden send-off, as Steve Clarke's side head to the USA.