Straight Outta Cobham: The Athletic FC's Chelsea show

Seven straight defeats? Not in these parts...Matt Davies-Adams calls up Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin for a look back on the 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday lunchtime.We take the positives from a far better showing that the sorry Forest defeat, laud the return of Levi Colwill - starting his first game of the season - and ponder whether this will be the boost they need to go into a Wembley final with at least an improved chance of beating Pep's side... Plus, Cerys Jones pops by for the madness of the Women's FA Cup semi-final at Stamford Bridge, which saw Chelsea squander a two-goal lead to be knocked out 3-2 in extra-time by Manchester City.And - any update on the managerial hunt?! And the U18's finish off their title-winning regular season campaign in style...We'll be back on Thursday with a more comprehensive look ahead to Saturday's Wembley showdown with Manchester City in the FA Cup final.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson, Sam Parkin & Cerys JonesPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

News just in... unfortunately we can't forfeit this game...Matt Davies-Adams is once again joined by two of The Athletic's finest - Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey - for a look ahead to the weekend trip to Merseyside to take on Liverpool.Will the players actually bother to try and put in some kind of performance on Saturday? What players are even available? And do they need to string a couple of results together to have any hope going into the FA Cup final? Plus - we discuss the announcement of changes to the club's ticketing policy next season - and what the ramifications could be. Oh, and Super Frank! He's been speaking to The Athletic's Tom Burrows after guiding Coventry City back to the Premier League. We'll be back on Monday with a look back on events at Anfield - and see whether Chelsea Women have managed to book their place in an FA Cup final. HOST: Matt Davies-Adams WITH: Liam Twomey Simon Johnson PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can the season just end now?Matt Davies-Adams enlists The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson for our latest doomcast after the horror show against an unrecognisable Nottingham Forest.What can you even say after that performance?! The lack of effort, the shortcomings all over the field, the terrible end to what should have been a special day for Jesse Derry, the magnificent Joao Pedro goal which will sadly be nothing more than an after-thought in an afternoon to forget. Elsewhere - CFCW seal UWCL football! But the U21's season is over after PL2 play-off quarter-final defeat. Plus, legendary goalkeeper Petr Cech shares his reflections on the current state of the club.We'll be back on Thursday for the look ahead to Saturday's trip to Anfield to take on Liverpool... they haven't won their since March 2021 - what could possibly go wrong?HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson and Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy OlivaJoin our FPL league!https://fantasy.premierleague.com/leagues/auto-join/7lntvqLeague Code: 7lntvq Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MDA Derby pending...Matt Davies-Adams has got Sam Parkin and Liam Twomey for company - and a smorgasbord of Chelsea-related chatter to get stuck into ahead of a busy weekend of action.We look ahead to the visit of Nottingham Forest. We discuss any managerial developments and hear from Italian football expert James Horncastle on why it may be difficult to tempt Cesc Fabregas away from Como. We chat Mudryk's CAS appeal and what comes next. We're joined by women's football writer of the year Charlotte Harpur to discuss legend Millie Bright's retirement! And we try and name a bunch of 17-year-olds who made their Premier League debuts. We'll be back on Tuesday with a look back on the Bank Holiday festivities at Stamford Bridge as the Blues look to keep their hopes of European football alive! HOST: Matt Davies-Adams WITH: Liam Twomey, Sam Parkin and Charlotte Harpur PRODUCER: Lucy OlivaJoin our FPL league! https://fantasy.premierleague.com/leagues/auto-join/7lntvqLeague Code: 7lntvq Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So, that's what effort looks like!?Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher alongside him for a look back on Sunday's trip to Wembley - where Chelsea set a date with Manchester City in the final after a 1-0 win over Leeds.We discuss the much-improved performance from the end of the Rosenior reign (although that's not saying much!), discuss the captain Enzo's goal, the crucial role that Joao Pedro plays - and give praise to Calum McFarlane for how he's conducted himself having been thrust back into the spotlight.Then - we touch base with the runners and riders to become the next man in the dugout. Is Iraola the favourite? Could Cesc be tempted away from Como? Is Xabi Alonso an ideal fit?! Plus - Levi Colwill was back playing with aplomb for the U21's and CFCW kept up their hunt for a Champions League spot with a big win at Everton. We'll be back on Thursday for a look ahead to the MDA Derby - with the visit of Nottingham Forest to Stamford Bridge on Bank Holiday Monday.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy OlivaJoin our Fantasy Football League! https://fantasy.premierleague.com/leagues/auto-join/7lntvqLeague Code: 7lntvq Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

106 days later... The SOC gang assembles under emergency measures after the news dropped late on Monday afternoon that Liam Rosenior has been sacked by Chelsea after less than four months as the club’s head coach.Appointed in January to succeed Enzo Maresca - he began by winning eight of his first 11 matches in charge.But Monday's defeat to Brighton was the seventh time they have lost in their last eight games — the only victory coming against third-tier Port Vale in the FA Cup.Matt's joined by Liam, Cerys, Luke AND Simon for our immediate reaction to the news. Was this always inevitable? What can Calum McFarlane do to lift the spirits going into Sunday's game at Wembley? Where do the club turn next? Could they convince Cesc Fabregas to join the project? Will the club hierarchy be held accountable for the mess that this season has been turned into?Keep across The Athletic for the definitive inside read on Rosenior's departure and all the fallout that follows - and we'll of course back with you on Monday hot off the back of a trip to Wembley. HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Cerys Jones, Liam Twomey, Luke Bosher & Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What were you doing in 1912? Matt Davies-Adams, Cerys Jones and Liam Twomey jump aboard the pretty downbeat party bus for a look back on the 3-0 defeat at Brighton which condemns Chelsea to their fifth straight Premier League defeat without scoring.We get into Liam Rosenior's pointed post-match comments, the bizarre formation, the totally inept performance across the board - and what this latest low means for Rosenior's future and the fate of the rest of the season. So - what chances of beating a confident, in-form Leeds United at Wembley on Sunday afternoon? Spoiler alert... not very high by our estimations! Then - the good news keeps coming - with The Athletic's Football Finance Writer Chris Weatherspoon with us for a closer look at his comprehensive piece - 'Exploring BlueCo’s finances and its massive bet on Chelsea'. Plus - CFCW have a new official home for the next WSL season... Stamford Bridge!We'll be back on Monday (barring any news in the meantime...) to look back on Sunday's semi-final with Leeds - where Chelsea might have somehow booked their place in the FA Cup final!? Read Chris's deep dive into BlueCo's financesRead Liam's post-match post-mortem Read Conor O'Neill's of Chelsea's 'muddled tactics' under Rosenior HOST: Matt Davies-Adams WITH: Liam Twomey, Cerys Jones & Chris Weatherspoon PRODUCER: Lucy Olivahttps://fantasy.premierleague.com/leagues/auto-join/7lntvqLeague Code: 7lntvq Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gallows humour at the ready...Matt Davies-Adams has The Athletic's Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher for company to look back on the latest shambolic result for Chelsea Football Club - this time in the form of a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Manchester United.We touch upon the pre-match protests, before focusing on another day to forget at the Bridge to condemn the Blues to their fourth straight defeat... without scoring a goal.Then - there's a trip to the seaside to take on a Brighton side who would leapfrog Liam Rosenior's side in the table if they were to win. Plus - Caicedo's new contract - and co‑owner Behdad Eghbali admits mistakes have been made... We'll be back with you on Wednesday for the fallout from the trip to the Amex - as well as all the other Blues news and a look ahead to Leeds in the FA Cup semi-final.https://fantasy.premierleague.com/leagues/auto-join/7lntvqLeague Code: 7lntvqHOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Four Premier League defeats in a row for just the second time this century? Surely not?!Matt Davies-Adams is in the company of The Athletic's Cerys Jones and Liam Twomey for a look ahead to the visit of Manchester United under the lights at Stamford Bridge on Saturday night.We discuss what kind of team we're expecting to see face up against Michael Carrick's side with Enzo Fernandez in from the cold, how much pressure there is to get a result in front of expectant home fans and whether this is a must win for any hopes of a top five finish - or whether there's still plenty of room for slip ups in the run-in...Plus - would Chelsea make a move for Andoni Iraola? What kind of crowds should we expect at the pre-match protests before Saturday's game? And can you name the last 10 men to play for both sides? We'll be back on Monday with a look back at events at the Bridge on Saturday evening - and a look ahead to Tuesday night's trip to Brighton as the season enters its final stretch.https://fantasy.premierleague.com/leagues/auto-join/7lntvqLeague Code: 7lntvqHOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Cerys Jones and Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All downhill from here?Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin alongside him for a look back on the 3-0 defeat dished out to the Blues by a far superior Manchester City.Why was the second half showing so poor? Would Enzo Fernandez have made any difference if he wasn't on the naughty step? And does it feel like it's now only a matter of time before the club move on from Liam Rosenior's tenure with things seemingly souring quickly - and results and performances continuing to deteriorate?There is at least a bit of positivity to come out of Cobham for the U18's and U21's in their respective leagues. We'll be back on Thursday with a look ahead to the visit of Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday evening.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson & Sam ParkinPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey for company for a look ahead to the visit of Manchester City to Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon. Who the heck is going to be in the starting XI?! What chance do Liam Rosenior's side have of frustrating Pep's men like they did at the Etihad back in January? And can they avoid losing 3 successive league games without scoring for the first time since 1998?!Plus - a deep dive on who we think will be wearing the captain's armband this weekend - and whether we're going to have to reopen the never tedious starting goalkeeper debate...Oh - and neither Luke or Liam cover themselves in glory when tasked with naming the last 10 footballers who've made at least one Premier League appearance for both Chelsea and Manchester City. We'll be back on Monday (probably slightly later in the day because Producer Lucy may or may not be on holiday, sorry!) to capture all the fallout from events at the Bridge on Sunday. https://fantasy.premierleague.com/leagues/auto-join/7lntvqLeague Code: 7lntvqHOST: Matt Davies-Adams WITH: Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can you come away from a 7-0 victory... still kind of unconvinced?!Matt Davies-Adams has got his Easter bunnies Sam Parkin and Liam Twomey alongside him for a look back on the thrashing of Port Vale in the FA Cup.Who were the big winners and losers from the game? Why didn't Josh Acheampong get more minutes? And what does it say about Liam Delap's future that he was left out - and then still didn't manage to score once he'd come on? Plus - a chance to touch upon some of the ongoing drama behind the scenes at the club - with Enzo Fernandez's two-game benching, Cucurella's comments, the race to finish in the top five - and Mudryk training in Uxbridge!We'll be back on Thursday with a comprehensive look ahead to the visit of Manchester City in the Premier League.https://fantasy.premierleague.com/leagues/auto-join/7lntvqLeague Code: 7lntvqHOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Liam Twomey and Sam ParkinPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anyone else want to speak out in the press? Matt Davies-Adams has got Cerys Jones and Luke Bosher for company as we return from a short international break of our own to look ahead to the return to action of the men's team.But we begin with disappointment in the UWCL for CFCW - 1-0 winners on the night against Arsenal but knocked out of the competition at the quarter-final stage 3-2 on aggregate... no thanks to some of the officiating on show. Then - we turn our attention to the visit of bottom of League One Port Vale in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. They couldn't do a Bradford - could they?!Plus - more news of a financial variety as the club announce the biggest pre-tax loss in Premier League history... winning something at least, eh?! We'll be back on Monday to look back on the visit of the Valiants - and surely be celebrating safe passage to an FA Cup semi-final?!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Cerys Jones and Luke BosherPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Losing isn't exclusive to the men's team at the moment... Matt Davies-Adams has a new-look starting line-up - with The Athletic's Charlotte Harpur and Michael Cox joining forces with SOC's own Cerys Jones for a closer look at all things CFCW hot off the back of Chelsea's 3-1 defeat by Arsenal in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.We look at the big talking points from the match in rainy north London - before pondering whether the Blues can turn things around in the return leg back at Stamford Bridge next Wednesday. How damaging would it be if Sonia Bompastor's side got knocked out at this stage and then also failed to qualify for the competition next season? Plus, we shine the spotlight on what's going on behind the scenes at the club - with news of big departures on and off the pitch, recruitment uncertainty, questions over the best stadium to play at moving forward - and whether the new model the club is operating under as a whole will have a detrimental impact on CFCW. We're taking a short international break of our own - but we'll be back next Thursday to look back on the 2nd leg contest - and a look ahead to the visit of Port Vale for the men's side in the FA Cup.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Cerys Jones, Charlotte Harpur & Cerys JonesPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're going to need more than Good Luck, Babe!Matt Davies-Adams has got two Chappell Roan enthusiasts - Cerys Jones and Simon Johnson - alongside him for a look back at another miserable trip to Merseyside.There's the fallout from the abject 3-0 defeat to Everton. Have the players downed tools? Have they lost respect for Liam Rosenior's methods? And are we in danger of seeing the Blues tumble down the table?! With Champions League football next season looking fanciful in this current state...It might be time to regroup for the men's side over the international break - but CFCW have got the small matter of a Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal on Tuesday night to look ahead to. We preview that game - and some big contractual news to come out of the club with a couple of legends looking set to depart. Plus - an unfortunate trip down memory lane to that 2022-23 campaign - surely it can't get that bad?!!We'll be back with a special show on Wednesday shining the spotlight on CFCW and hoping for a night to remember for Sonia Bompastor's side under the lights at the Emirates.HOST: Matt Davies-Adams WITH: Simon Johnson and Cerys JonesPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You 8-2 see it...Matt Davies-Adams enlists Cerys Jones and Liam Twomey for a gory-post mortem of Chelsea's 8-2 aggregate defeat by PSG in the Champions League last 16.Simon Johnson beams in from the Stamford Bridge press box with a pretty damning assessment of what he saw in front of him on a 'horrific night' for everyone associated with the club.Was this result breaking point for Liam Rosenior in the eyes of Chelsea fans? And will this embarrassment on the biggest stage make the club hierarchy reconsider their approach to this 'project'?The mood is very high going into the first ever trip to the Hill Dickinson then (!) - we look ahead to that match. Plus - racking our brains for players who found the net at Goodison... We'll be back on Monday to look back on the trip to Everton - will the Blues be heading into the international break on a much-needed high?HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Respectfully...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by the SOC OG's Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey for a look back at events at Stamford Bridge on Saturday as Chelsea's top five hopes were dealt another blow.But we begin with a double dose of bad breaking news to come out of the club on Monday - with Reece James injured and the club handed a suspended one-year ban from signing first-team players and given a £10million fine from the Premier League relating to breaches of financial rules during Roman Abramovich’s time as owner.If that wasn't fun enough - we get stuchin into the farcical pre-match huddle situation - before finally focusing on the lowlights of the 1-0 defeat by Newcastle.Things don't get much easier - with PSG in town on Tuesday with the unenviable task of trying to overcome a 5-2 deficit.As has so often been the case in the past - thank goodness for CFCW! They picked up their first silverware of the season thanks to the 2-0 League Cup final victory over Manchester United.We'll be back on Wednesday to look back on the miracle against PSG????! And a look ahead to Saturday evening's trip to Everton... and any other bad news that wants to darken our door in the meantime!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson and Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was all going (kinda) well for 73 minutes...Matt Davies-Adams has got Cerys Jones and Sam Parkin for company for a look back on the 5-2 defeat by PSG on Wednesday night.Liam Twomey was on the ground at the Parc des Princes - and he sends his thoughts on the calamitous end to an otherwise positive performance in Paris.While PSG can put their feet up for the weekend, the Blues have to navigate the visit of Newcastle on Saturday evening. We've got a look ahead to that - where we hope Eddie Howe's side will be resting players with one eye on Barca seeing as they've still got something to play for in that tie?! Plus - there's silverware on offer this weekend! CFCW take on Manchester United in the League Cup final at Ashton Gate. We preview the first final of the season for Sonia Bompastor's side. HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Cerys Jones and Sam ParkinPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was certainly a welcome...Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey in tow to look back on the 4-2 (AET) victory over Wrexham in the 5th round of the FA Cup.It certainly wasn't pretty - but we take a closer look at how Rosenior's side eventually got over the line, the silver linings from the laboured performance - and how Garnacho is taking his chance with options on the wing so limited.Then, we turn our attention on another jetsetting trip for the Blues - from Wrexham to Paris! It's a Club World Cup final rematch as Chelsea travel to take on the reigning French and European champions PSG.We'll be back on Thursday morning with all the fallout from events at the Parc des Princes - and a look ahead to the trip to Newcastle on Saturday evening.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson and Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You can't stay mad at them for long...Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher with him for a look back on Wednesday night's 4-1 win at Aston Villa - to take Chelsea back to 5th in the Premier League table.Simon Johnson sends us his post-match dispatch from the press box - before we discuss the bold decision to drop Robert Sánchez, the continuation of João Pedro's sensational form - and whether this game was proof that playing the big teams in this difficult upcoming run could actually prove to be in Chelsea's favour. Next up - Wrexham in the FA Cup! The Athletic's Wrexham reporter Richard Sutcliffe drops by to give us the lowdown on Saturday's hosts - who are going for back-to-back-to-back-to-back promotions - and will certainly be up for the cup when they welcome a Premier League side to the Racecourse Ground - aspiring to be in the top flight with them next season. We'll be back on Monday to discuss that fixture AND look ahead to the small matter of PSG in the Champions League round of 16 1st leg on Wednesday night! HOST: Matt Davies-Adams WITH: Luke Bosher, Liam Twomey & Simon Johnson PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've seen this movie far too many times now...Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Simon Johnson in tow to look back on the hugely frustrating and in many ways avoidable 2-1 defeat by Arsenal at The Emirates.We begin with a pretty dismayed Liam Twomey and his thoughts from the press box - before reflecting on Robert Sanchez's disastrous afternoon, the unfortunate gulf in class between Arsenal and Chelsea in this current iteration - and the latest red card in a shocking string of inexcusable dismissals which have cost the Blues so dearly.There's no time to sulk though - with a trip to Birmingham and a faltering Aston Villa on Wednesday night. The hosts have only won two of their last seven in the league - and Rosenior's side could close the gap on them to three points if they could come away with a win.Plus, our thoughts on a meeting with Club World Cup friends PSG in the Champions League which is just around the corner...We're back in your ears on Thursday with reaction from the trip to Villa - and a look ahead to the visit to Wrexham in the 5th round of the FA Cup! HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ninth time lucky in the Premier League against Arsenal?!Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Sam Parkin for company as we look ahead to the trip across London to take on the league leaders of Sunday afternoon.We discuss the remaining fixture list which the infamous Opta Supercomputer has deemed the hardest in the league - but could it actually work to their advantage? Plus, who's going to come into the back-line?! And which approach will come out on top in the balance between caution and proactiveness?Then - Simon Johnson pops by to talk us through his interview with Omari Kellyman - who is flourishing on loan at high-flying Cardiff City after a difficult start to his life at Chelsea plagued by injury. We hear from the man himself about the support he received from the likes of Reece James - who's proved that a comeback from serious setbacks is possible.Plus - who takes the ill-discipline crown in our latest Chelsea Top 10's?We'll be back on Monday to reflect on event at The Emirates - and look ahead to the midweek trip to Birmingham to take on top five rivals Aston Villa!Join the Straight Outta Cobham fantasy league HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher, Sam Parkin & Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

19 points dropped... NINETEEN POINTS!Matt Davies-Adams is joined by two of The Athletic's finest - Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey - to look back on the shocker of a 1-1 draw with Burnley at Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon.We discuss the overall poor level of performance, the defensive substitutions and the mistakes that this team just don't seem to be learning from week in, week out. Elsewhere, new shirt sponsor alert! We're only seven months into the season - but we've got an IFS.ai update - and why the club aren't in a rush to secure a long-term front of shirt partner... As we've said so often in the past - thank goodness for CFCW! It wasn't pretty - but they booked their place in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup thanks to a 2-1 win over Manchester United AET. Cerys was there and sent her thoughts on what could prove to be a crucial victory to set the tone for the rest of the season.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson and Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coming to a Dubai nightclub near you soon...Matt Davies-Adams has got Liam Twomey and Cerys Jones with him for a closer look at the Premier League clash with (surely?) Championship-bound Burnley at Stamford Bridge.Why is Cole Palmer so good at taking penalties? What makes Andrey Santos such an important cog in Liam Rosenior's system? And how have Chelsea given up the most xG in the Premier League from defensive set-pieces this season!? And how important is this game to cement their position as a top-five side given they've already dropped points against Sunderland and Leeds at home...Plus - can Chelsea Women progress in the FA Cup? They host frequent foes Manchester United in the fifth round of Sunday - we preview that game.And most importantly - which Chelsea player would you most like to go on holiday with? That's the kind of content you come for!We'll be back on Monday to run the rule over Saturday's visit of Burnley - and discuss whether CFCW have booked their place in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup!Join the Straight Outta Cobham FPL League! HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Cerys Jones and Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher for a look back on the 4-0 victory at Hull on Friday night to safely book their place in the 5th round of the FA Cup.We discuss why Pedro Neto perhaps doesn't get the plaudits despite his three goals, another peculiar night for Liam Delap - and the Mamadou Sarr revelation as he impresses on his full debut for the club. Then - with an *actual* midweek without football for the first time since the end of December - we wonder what Liam Rosenior will be prioritising on the training pitch now he's got some time with his players for the first time!Plus - CFCW reacted to a difficult week off the pitch in a positive manner - beating Liverpool 2-0 in the WSL to keep their hopes of a top three finish alive.We'll be back on Wednesday to look ahead to Saturday's visit of Burnley to Stamford Bridge - and CFCW's FA Cup 5th round FA Cup tie with Manchester United! HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oh Cole, it was harder to miss...Matt Davies-Adams has Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey for company to look back on Tuesday night's 2-2 draw with Leeds and Stamford Bridge.The scoreline certainly doesn't tell the whole story - with the Blues throwing away a two-goal lead in farcical fashion to be held by Daniel Farke's side - and Cole Palmer missing an open goal! Simon Johnson sends in his thoughts from the press box on a frustrating evening and what feels like an opportunity missed.Attention then turns to the FA Cup and the long trip to face Championship promotion hopefuls Hull City on Friday night. We look ahead to that game as Liam Rosenior makes his return to the side he played for and managed.Elsewhere - there was big breaking news out of Chelsea Women on Monday evening, when it was announced that head of women's football Paul Green is leaving the club after 13 years. You can read the deep-dive on The Athletic - but women's football writer Megan Feringa joins us for the inside scoop on how the news has been received - and what it means for the club going forward.We'll be back on Monday to look back on the visit to Hull - and rejoice in a free midweek without any football to hopefully rest the weary bodies!Read - Chelsea Women in crisis: A critical exit, player confusion and the role of the men’s sporting directorsJoin our SOC fantasy league! League Code: 7lntvqHOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher, Liam Twomey and Megan FeringaPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've missed singing 'Palmer again ole, ole'...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by two of The Athletic's finest - Cerys Jones and Simon Johnson - for a Monday dose of SOC off the back of Chelsea's 3-1 win at Wolves on Saturday.On the agenda: Cole Palmer's very welcome return to form, Rosenior's role adjustments - and why they can never quite put together a full, 90-minute performance...Next, can the Blues avenge their horror show at Elland Road back at the start of December? We look ahead to Tuesday night's visit of Leeds United to the Bridge in the midweek Premier League action.Plus, CFCW got back to winning ways with their 2-0 victory at Tottenham... in front of Madonna! It means the gap to the top of the table is back to nine points after Man City's defeat at Arsenal.There's also a focus on Cobham! With the under 18's hosting Manchester City in the 5th round of the FA Youth Cup on Monday evening and the U21's flying high in PL2.We'll be back on Wednesday with a look back on the visit of Leeds - and a look ahead to the trip to Hull on Friday night to face Liam Rosenior's former side in the fourth round of the FA Cup.Join the Straight Outta Cobham FPL League! HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Cerys Jones and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

That elusive goal...Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey with him after the Blues were knocked out of the League Cup by Arsenal.Beaten 4-2 on aggregate, 1-0 on the night by a last-gasp Kai Havertz (of course) goal - we take a closer look at yet another tactical set-up, the glaring absence of Reece James - and what the team needs to do to get the best out of Liam Delap. It's back to Premier League matters on Saturday - with bottom of the table Wolves the assignment. We've got eyes on that game as the Blues look to consolidate their place in the hunt for a top five finish.Plus - a whistlestop round up of the sparse deadline day dealings - and can Chelsea Women bounce back from the hammering at Man City when they travel to Tottenham? Oh - and can you name the 10 most expensive signings of all-time!? We'll be back on Monday to run the rule over the trip to Molineux - and look ahead to the midweek visit of Leeds to Stamford Bridge!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the 57th time of asking...Matt Davies-Adams and Sam Parkin team up to look back on the dramatic 3-2 victory over West Ham at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening.We've got a special double-header voice note from the press box on the final whistle as Cerys and Liam try and sum up the chaos that played out in front of them in the dictionary definition of a game of two halves.Can the Blues bottle up that second 45 minutes and take it into Tuesday night's League Cup semi-final second leg at The Emirates?! We preview the trip to Arsenal - before Simon Johnson gives his deadline day verdict on what we can expect business wise from the Blues as the January transfer window closes. Plus - it was another afternoon to forget for Chelsea Women after their 5-1 demolition by league leaders Manchester City on Sunday. The Athletic reports that Sonia Bompastor's job is safe - despite her saying she'd be ‘happy’ to leave Chelsea ‘if people think I’m not the right person’.We'll be back slightly earlier on Wednesday this week to bring you our reaction to the Arsenal game - and look ahead to the visit to Molineux!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Sam Parkin PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Come on, it was never in doubt (!)Matt Davies-Adams, Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin assemble to revel in the glory of Wednesday night's triumphant 3-2, comeback victory over Napoli to seal safe passage straight through the Champions League last 16.We of course begin in Naples - and the thoughts of Simon Johnson following the topsy turvy evening which saw Liam Rosenior's tinkering eventually pay off! There's unexpected tactical approaches, Pedro's sensational strikes and sticking the boot in to Romelu Lukaku... Out of the Champions League haze, attentions turns to Saturday evening and the visit of relegation-threatened West Ham to Stamford Bridge.Plus - what next for Raheem Sterling after his Chelsea contract was terminated on Wednesday? And can Chelsea Women close the alarmingly wide gap at the top of the WSL table when they head to leaders Manchester City on Wednesday afternoon?We'll be back on Monday with a look back on all the weekend's action - and a look ahead to the crunch semi-final second leg meeting with Arsenal at The Emirates on Tuesday night. HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Sam Parkin and Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To Naples we go...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Luke Bosher and Simon Johnson to run the rule over Sunday's 3-1 win over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.There's love for the sensational Steve-o, a word on João Pedro's recent revival, vintage VAR fodder and the obligatory Caicedo yellow.Then - attention turns to the UCL, and Wednesday night's race for a top eight place as Liam Rosenior's side face Antonio Conte's Napoli. Can Chelsea get the win - and the goal difference boost - to book their place in the next round of the Champions League?!Elsewhere, not such good news for Chelsea Women - comfortably beaten 2-0 by Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on Saturday to leave the Blues nine points behind leaders Manchester City. Cerys sends her report from the press box! Plus - the latest on the (perhaps unexpected) return of Aarón Anselmino and why the wait for a shirt sponsor will go on... We'll be back on Thursday to look back on the crucial Champions League showdown out in Naples - and look ahead to the visit of relegation-threatened West Ham in the Premier League on Saturday evening.We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback.Join the Straight Outta Cobham FPL League! HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the race for eighth place...Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Cerys Jones alongside him for a recap of the extremely dull but extremely necessary 1-0 victory over Pafos on MD7 of the UCL.We discuss the slog against the Cypriot champions, Liam Delap's ineffectiveness against the low block - and whether we're being too harsh on the team given a win's a win AND they are into the top eight as it stands.Then, SOC OG Dom Fifield enters the chat for a look ahead to Sunday's trip to current crisis club Crystal Palace in the Premier League.Elsewhere, CFCW booked themselves into yet another cup final - beating Manchester City 1-0 to set up a League Cup final meeting with Manchester United in March. Can they keep the momentum going into Saturday's tie with Arsenal in the WSL?!We'll be back on Monday to look back on the trip to Selhurst Park and look ahead to the huge Champions League clash out in Naples as the Blues face old boss Antonio Conte looking to seal a top eight finish.We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback.Join the Straight Outta Cobham FPL League! HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Cerys Jones, Liam Twomey & Dom FifieldPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not quite sure how that happened but...Matt Davies-Adams has got Sam Parkin and Simon Johnson for company to pass judgement on the beating of the Bees and a look ahead to Pafos.We begin by touching upon the protests which gathered outside the ground before the game, before turning our attention to the events on the pitch - which saw the Blues somehow come away with a 2-0 win over Brentford.Then - it's the David Luiz derby!! Only he might be injured... but hopefully not! It's surely a must win for Chelsea if they're to secure a spot in the top eight and guarantee automatic passage through to the knockout round.Plus - why are the club interested in signing yet another young centre-back, this time in the form of Rennes 20-year-old Jeremy Jacquet.We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on Wednesday night's encounter with Pafos AND to preview the visit to current Premier League crisis club Crystal Palace.Join the Straight Outta Cobham FPL League! Take part in our audience survey for a chance to win an $/£100 Amazon voucher!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson and Sam ParkinPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's been real, Facundo...Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey with eyes on Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night and the 3-2 defeat by Arsenal in the League Cup semi-final first leg. Simon Johnson sends his thoughts on the final whistle on a chaotic evening of Carabao football. We discuss the defensive and goalkeeping shortcomings exposed once again, how Rosenior wants this side to play - and the positives considering how depleted the squad was due to injury and illness. Attention then turns to the visit of Brentford on Saturday afternoon - a Brentford who sit fifth in the Premier League table and could move five point clear of the Blues if they were to come away with a win.We'll be back on Monday to bring you reaction to the Bees match - and look ahead to the midweek Champions League action with Pafos in town!Join the Straight Outta Cobham FPL League! HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A big win to kick-off the Rosenior reign...Matt Davies-Adams has got Sam Parkin and Simon Johnson alongside him to look back on the 5-1 win at Charlton in the FA Cup on Saturday night. Then it's onto a wholly different challenge - with Arsenal making the short trip to Stamford Bridge in the Carabao Cup Semi-Final First Leg on Wednesday evening. Is the pressure off for the Blues? And what kind of reception will we see from the home fans towards the new head coach? Plus, the WSL returned this weekend and CFCW got back underway in style with a 5-0 thrashing of West Ham at Kingsmeadow! But it's still all to do in the league with Man City staying six point clear at the top of the table. We'll be back on Thursday to run the rule over the first leg clash with Arsenal - and look ahead to the visit of Brentford in the Premier League on Saturday.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Simon Johnson and Sam ParkinPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Back in October 2025, Liam Rosenior sat down with The Athletic FC Podcast's Ayo Akinwolere and Carl Anka - with RC Strasbourg flying high in Ligue 1.Now Chelsea manager - Rosenior gives an insight into his management style, working in a multi-club ownership model and the importance of representation, diversity and role models.Plus - his approach to coaching and how he gets a big dressing room to come together...Matt Davies-Adams and the gang will be back on Monday to review Rosenior's first game in charge of the Blues against Charlton in the FA Cup - and to look ahead to Arsenal in the League Cup!Host: Ayo AkinwolereCo-Host: Carl AnkaWith: Liam RoseniorExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are SO back, baby... not a red card in sight...Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Chelsea experts Cerys Jones and Liam Twomey (!) alongside him for our second show of the week... a second show we'll be bringing you every week going forward!It's a shame we're not with you in happier circumstances - as we have to look back on the 2-1 defeat by Fulham at Craven Cottage on Wednesday night. We discuss the ongoing ill-discipline problems which are plighting this side, Cole Palmer's worrying lack of form - and take the positives from Liam Delap getting his first Premier League goal for the club.Plus, we react to Liam Rosenior's first interview as Chelsea boss and discuss some of the key challenges he faces ahead of his first game in charge on Saturday.Speaking of, we've got another quick look ahead to the trip to The Valley to take on Championship strugglers Charlton - and we preview the return of the WSL with CFCW hosting relegation-threatened West Ham on Sunday.We'll be back on Monday with a look back on visit to Charlton and a look ahead to the League Cup Semi-Final First Leg vs Arsenal on Wednesday night.Thank you for your support and emails, messages, five-star ratings which have allowed us to bring you two shows a week! We wouldn't have done it without you.Join the Straight Outta Cobham FPL League! What is Pubalgia? Read Sarah Shephard's piece HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Cerys Jones & Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not bad for your first senior game in charge...Matt Davies-Adams has Cerys Jones and Sam Parkin along for the ride as we look back on the hugely creditable 1-1 draw at Manchester City on Sunday evening. Simon's on hand with his reflections on the final whistle from inside the Etihad - as we praise Calum McFarlane's tactical tweaks, the spirit showed by the team to come back into the game - and what it's like for a player in such a bizarre week at the club. We discuss next steps - with Liam Rosenior reportedly in London to finalise details to become the new head coach. Will he be involved in the preparations ahead of Fulham on Wednesday night? We preview that game *and* Saturday's trip to Charlton in the 3rd round of the FA Cup! We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the matches against Fulham and Charlton - plus a look ahead to the visit of Arsenal in the League Cup semi-final first leg! Join the Straight Outta Cobham FPL League! HOST: Matt Davies-Adams WITH: Cerys Jones & Sam Parkin PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy New Year...Matt Davies-Adams, Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher assemble for an emergency pod following the news that dropped at lunchtime on Thursday 1st January 2026 - that Chelsea Football Club and Enzo Maresca have parted company.We take a deep dive into the reasons behind the decision and its timing, the mounting questions which will now only grow for the club's hierarchy and their policies - and why it looks like Liam Rosenior will be the man to take over the helm at Stamford Bridge...Back on Monday with our regularly-scheduled podcast looking back on the trip to Manchester City, plus all the latest news and developments off the field. HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Well, that wasn't very festive Chelsea.Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Simon Johnson for company as we unpick the collapse in the 2-1 defeat by Aston Villa at the Bridge on Saturday evening.We discuss the failings of the squad building process of the summer, the defensive lapses which yet again came back to bite this team - and whether Enzo Maresca can avoid the pressure mounting to deliver performances and results considering it's now just two wins in eight matches in all competitions for the Blues. There's no time to dwell on that result - with games against Bournemouth and Manchester City in quick succession to take us into 2026. We look ahead to those and make the case that no one from the bench exactly made a case to be starting in these ones... Plus - a quick look ahead to the January transfer window activity and the importance of the League Cup with nine games to come in a crazy month for the club. We'll be back NEXT MONDAY the 5th of January with our reaction to the Bournemouth and Man City games - plus a look ahead to the trips to Fulham in the Premier League and Charlton in the FA Cup. Strap yourselves in for a crazy January!HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Simon JohnsonPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A minor Christmas miracle in the circumstances...Matt Davies-Adams has got Sam Parkin and Cerys Jones alongside him for a look back on the quintessential game of two halves in the 2-2 draw with Newcastle on Saturday lunchtime.We talk the impressive second half comeback after a dicey opening 45 minutes, Reece's spectacular free-kick - and is Garnacho actually any good at football?Aston Villa are in town next weekend - an Aston Villa side who have won no less than TEN matches in a row in all competitions. So - what can Enzo Maresca's side do to put a stop to their rampant form? And is it another game where they'll rise to the challenge against a top side? Meanwhile CFCW put just the NINE past a sorry Liverpool to book their place in the League Cup semi-finals. And - Chelsea players as Christmas things, anyone? We'll be back next Monday to look back on Saturday's visit of high-flying Villa - and preview the clashes with Bournemouth and Manchester City.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Cerys Jones and Sam ParkinPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Ornstein reports that Chelsea's Enzo Maresca is high on the list to replace Pep Guardiola - with the anticipation of this being his last season at Manchester City.It comes less than a week after Maresca's outburst regarding his 'worst 48 hours' at the club, which came following the 2-0 win over Everton on Saturday. The Athletic FC Podcast assembled to react to the news. Matt Davies-Adams and the gang will have more reaction to the story on Monday's pod - where we'll be reflecting on Saturday's trip to Newcastle as well and looking ahead to the festive fixtures.Host: Adam LeventhalWith: David Ornstein, Oliver Kay, Jack Pitt-Brooke and Simon JohnsonExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How was your last 48 hours?!!Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Cerys Jones, Luke Bosher and Simon Johnson (through the medium of extensive voice notes) as we look back on a pretty bonkers few days in the life of Chelsea Football Club.We take a deep dive into Enzo Maresca's post-Everton press conference revelations and the subsequent reluctance to elaborate on his angst. We've got a look back on that 2-0 win over the Toffees on Saturday AND the slightly painful but ultimately successful path through to the League Cup semi-finals after the 3-1 win at Cardiff on Tuesday night.There's a look ahead to the slightly daunting trip to St James' Park on Saturday lunchtime - a venue where the Blues have suffered four straight defeats. Plus - there's a big European tie for CFCW, forgotten £50 million men and FPL woes to boot.We'll be back on Monday with our analysis of that game and a look ahead to what the Christmas period has in store for Enzo's side. HOST: Matt Davies-Adams WITH: Cerys Jones, Luke Bosher and Simon Johnson PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Non bene... Producer Lucy's joined by The Athletic's Simon Johnson out in Bergamo for some quickfire reaction to the 2-1 defeat by Atalanta - which leaves Chelsea's hopes of a top eight finish in the UCL league phase hanging perilously in the balance.So where did it all go wrong in the second half? What have been the big areas of concern across these that three performances against La Dea, Bournemouth and Leeds? And how much pressure does this put on Saturday's game against Everton?Matt will be back with a thorough look at the visit of the Toffees - and a look ahead to the trip to Cardiff in the League Cup! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the dullest games in recent memory?Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Sam Parkin alongside him with the unenviable task of having to look back on Saturday's drab goalless draw at Bournemouth. Cerys Jones was there and sent her thoughts - and tried to take the positives from the clean sheet! But the misery was compounded by another serious injury to Liam Delap as the curse of the '9' shirt continues...The Blues have to get back to winning ways on Tuesday night, making the trip to Bergamo to face Atalanta in MD6 of the Champions League. The Athletic's Italian football expert James Horncastle sends in his assessment of the challenge the Blues will face against the side who they sit level on points with in the league phase table.Elsewhere, the streak is over! Chelsea Women's unbeaten run ends at 34 games after their shock 1-0 defeat by Everton at Kingsmeadow on Saturday. So does it mean their title hopes are over, sitting six points behind Manchester City at the top of the table?Plus - a chance to hear from Chelsea loanee Leo Castledine - who's impressing at Huddersfield and in a rich vein of goalscoring form in League One!There will be a SOC Extra dropping for you on Wednesday morning off the back of the trip to face Atalanta - before Matt returns with a full squad on Monday to look back on the visit of Everton AND look ahead to the trip to Cardiff in the League Cup on Tuesday night.Join the SOC fantasy leagueRead Simon's piece with Leo CastledineHOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Sam ParkinPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It feels like more than just a point... Matt Davies-Adams has got an OG SOC crew of The Athletic's Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey alongside him to look back on Sunday's 1-1 draw with league leaders Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.The gang reflect on the pretty remarkable point picked up against the Gunners given the first half red card dished out to Moises Caicedo, the maturity showed by Reece James and the rest of the team to contain Mikel Arteta's side - and the overall growth of this young squad over just a matter of months to show they really can be competitive against the very best the Premier League and Europe has to offer. Next up - the Blues kick off a run of three straight away games when they travel to Elland Road to face Leeds on Wednesday night. How will Enzo Maresca tinker ahead of that one? And will Cole Palmer be thrown back in from the start? Plus! Dom Fifield pops by to tell us more about The Athletic’s brand new book ‘The Soccer 100’ - billed as ‘a celebration of the beautiful game and its 100 greatest players’. Who of a Chelsea persuasion gets a mention?!We'll be back on Monday to look back on Saturday's trip to Bournemouth AND look ahead to UCL MD6 as the Blues head out to Bergamo to face Atalanta on Tuesday night.Join our Straight Outta Cobham fantasy league!Get The Athletic's 'Soccer 100' book! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yamal who???????Producer Lucy's joined by Simon Johnson to look back on a great European night under the lights at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea dispatched Spanish champions Barcelona in emphatic fashion, winning 3-0 and in some style on Tuesday evening.What more can we say about Estêvão?! How big was it for Liam Delap to open his account? How good is Marc Cucurella!? And how does this set the team up for the top of the table clash with the Gunner's this weekend?Matt will be back on Monday for a comprehensive look back at Sunday's visit of Arsenal - and to look ahead to the midweek trip to Leeds in the Premier League! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some week ahead...Matt Davies-Adams has got Cerys Jones and Sam Parkin alongside him for all the fallout from Saturday's ultimately comfortable 2-0 win over Burnley at Turf Moor.It might not have been the most memorable of encounters - but we lavish praise on Andrey Santos and his MOTM performance, ponder Liam Delap's importance despite his struggles in front of goal - and lament Cole Palmer's door frame after his freak injury extends his lay-off from action. It tees us up for an absolutely pivotal week - with Barcelona visiting Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night, before Arsenal make the trip over from North London in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.We look ahead to the Champions League MD5 meeting against the Spanish giants - with The Athletic's Barca reporter Pol Ballús on hand to give us some insight into what to expect from Hansi Flick's side. Simon Johnson was in SW6 for the pre-match press conferences of Enzo Maresca and Marc Cucurella - so we've got a bit of a flavour of that for you too! We'll be back on Wednesday morning with Simon's official verdict from the Bridge - before Matt and the gang return on Monday morning with our full post-Arsenal pod.HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Cerys Jones and Sam ParkinPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No more international breaks until March!? Hallelujah!Matt Davies-Adams has got Cerys Jones and Luke Bosher along for the ride as we relish the return of the Premier League - and Saturday's long trip to Turf Moor to take on Burnley.We've got a round up of the international Blues in action - before pondering how that will impact upon Enzo Maresca's ever-unpredictable team selection, why this could be a big opportunity for Liam Delap to kickstart his season - and whether Cole Palmer should be risked with Barca and Arsenal on the horizon?!CFCW suffered disappointment at the weekend, held to a 1-1 draw by bottom of the table Liverpool to see them fall three points behind Man City at the top of the WSL table. Can they use that as fuel when they face old foes Barcelona in the Champions League on Thursday night?We'll be back on Monday to round up events in Lancashire - and look ahead to the visit of Spanish champions Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday!Listen to the Totally Football Show - The Art of Enjoying Hazard Join the Straight Outta Cobham fantasy league! HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Luke Bosher and Cerys JonesPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

165 games later...Matt Davies-Adams has got Cerys Jones and Liam Twomey alongside him for the seismic fallout from Malo Gusto scoring his first ever senior goal - which got the ball rolling on Chelsea's ultimately incredibly comfortable 3-0 win over Wolves at Stamford Bridge on Saturday night.We talk the ongoing great rotation debate, whether starboy Estêvão should be in from the start - and whether this enforced break will give some of the team a chance to get back to something like full fitness after a punishing schedule. Cerys did the double-header on Saturday, also in place at The Emirates for the eventful 1-1 draw between Arsenal and Chelsea in the WSL. We've got reaction to that one and a simply sensational first league goal from Alyssa Thompson. We'll take a pause for the last international break until March (hallelujah!) - but return the back end of next week to look ahead to the trip to Turf Moor AND the visit of Barcelona in the Champions League in midweek.Join the Straight Outta Cobham Fantasy League! HOST: Matt Davies-AdamsWITH: Cerys Jones and Liam TwomeyPRODUCER: Lucy Oliva Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.