Green Jumper

It's a church service that the hundreds of people in the congregation will never forget - thanks to the unpredictable Brian Clough. The fantastic story behind this event is told by Malcolm Bramley, who was with Brian on the day of the sportsman service.

This is Part Two of Malcom's entertaining chat with Marcus Alton (Part One was episode 94: 'Call Me Mr Clough').

Malcolm worked closely with Brian for several years and has some wonderful memories of the Miracle Manager, including witnessing one of Cloughie's unique team-talks before a match and accompanying him on a trip to make one of his famous signings.

Malcolm Bramley was in his smart working clothes - suited and booted - when Brian Clough picked up a ball and took shots at him in the goal at Sunderland's Roker Park. "It's an experience I will never forget," Malcom tells the Green Jumper podcast in this fascinating interview. 

After first encountering an outspoken Cloughie while Assistant Secretary at Sunderland, Malcolm was later invited by Brian to apply for the job as Club Secretary at Derby County. It led to many more incredible stories, including a telling-off for the tea lady who later saw the kinder side of Cloughie.  

This is part one of Marcus Alton's entertaining conversation with Malcolm. With thanks to the Roker Report for putting us in touch.  

Ian 'Bomber' Bowyer played a vital role in Brian Clough's European Cup success. In this Green Jumper Gem he describes the 3-3 battle with Cologne in the semi-final first-leg as one of the most exciting matches he played in. Bowyer also recalls the message from Cloughie ahead of the second leg.

"The thought we would ever win the league was absolutely beyond comprehension. So when Cloughie arrived in '75, it all changed."

Paul Ellis has special memories of Brian Clough, including watching him play for Middlesbrough at Nottingham Forest's City Ground in the 1950's.

Many years later, Paul became a focal point for the UK's media when they needed someone to speak to following the sad death of Brian in September 2004. Paul was the chairman of the Nottingham Forest Supporters Club and paid tribute to the Miracle Manager in countless interviews.

In 2005, he became chairman of the Brian Clough Statue Fund in Nottingham. In this personal reflection with pod host Marcus Alton, Paul describes some of the behind-the-scenes work of the fundraisers and his pride when the stunning sculpture was unveiled by Mrs Clough.

This episode also includes excerpts from one of the Green Jumper events in front of a live audience at a book festival.

Brian Clough took his players away for a break in the Spanish sunshine in preparation for Nottingham Forest's second successive European Cup Final, in May 1980. "It was absolute genius," said Gary Mills, who became the youngest player to appear in a European Cup Final.

This episode looks back at that magical time with exclusive contributions from several former Clough players, including John Robertson, Ian Bowyer, Martin O'Neill and the man nicknamed 'Young Millsy.'

Robertson talks to pod host Marcus Alton about his winning goal against German side Hamburg in Madrid, while O'Neill describes a special moment involving Cloughie at half-time.

A memorable visit to the chip shop is featured in this entertaining episode of great Brian Clough stories. There's also the tale of a visit to Cloughie's home, where Brian was wearing his marigolds while washing the dishes.

You'll also hear stories in an exclusive extract from a book festival featuring author and pod host Marcus Alton.

In a rare interview, former Nottingham Forest and England defender Des Walker talks exclusively to pod host Marcus Alton.

The entertaining conversation includes some great Cloughie memories, including the amusing stories about the first time Des met the Miracle Manager and why Brian always referred to the centre-half as 'Desmond.'

In this fascinating insight into the life of one of England's greatest defenders, Des also talks about memories of his mum plus how he used to play football in the garden with his sons Tyler and Lewis when they were schoolboys.

A collection of special Brian Clough memories from former Nottingham Forest defender Viv Anderson.

Speaking exclusively to Marcus Alton in the Green Jumper pod, Viv recalls how Cloughie's advice during his early days at Forest served him well throughout his illustrious career.

Viv also talks about the 'Local Heroes' documentary which features his memories alongside former team-mates Tony Woodcock and Garry Birtles.

In a rare interview, former England international Des Walker recalls the charisma of Brian Clough. "He was a genius who kept things simple," says Walker, who was usually referred to as 'Desmond.'

"Yes, that's what he used to say," adds Des. "Like calling Teddy Sheringham 'Edward.' It was a bit like your mum scolding you. But I got used to him pretty quickly and I got comfortable around him."

Des talks openly to Green Jumper host Marcus Alton. There are many more great Cloughie memories in this trailer for a forthcoming episode.

Jimmy Gordon played a special role in Brian Clough's success. He was the first team trainer, coach and sometimes the Magic Sponge Man, a fans' favourite who would run onto the pitch to treat injured players.

In this entertaining pod, Jimmy's grandson Craig recalls some marvellous personal memories - including how Jimmy was often the perfect buffer between Cloughie and the players.

This episode also includes an excerpt from a live Green Jumper event.