Pitchside Perspective Podcast

This week we’re joined by Lewis Benton, a die-hard Chelsea fan who’s back to talk all things Blues. With Enzo Maresca now at the helm, Chelsea’s revival is well underway, but is it the real deal? We’ll break down what’s changed, what’s working, and what still needs improvement as they push to re-establish themselves among the Premier League elite.

Beyond Chelsea, we’ll also take a look at some of the key transfers that have shaken up the league and what they could mean for the season ahead. Will Rashford fit in at Villa? Can Forest keep their momentum going? And who will survive the relegation battle?

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Jack, Stu & Lewis

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This week, we’re exploring the importance of continued development and how to build a strong coaching profile. The best coaches never stop learning, and GR Cannon joins us to share his journey. A former DC United pro, he’s held coaching roles at DC United’s Academy, Loudoun United in the USL, and the college level. Now the Founder and Director of Coaching at Shore FC, he’s completed his USSF courses and is currently pursuing his UEFA licenses through the FAW.

We break down the key differences between the UEFA and USSF pathways and discuss how early trauma early in his playing career shaped GR’s approach to coaching. He shares how those experiences drive his passion for developing young players mentally as well as technically, preparing them for the challenges of the game.

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Jack, Stu & GR

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This week, we’re looking into the latest gossip from the January transfer window as the clock ticks down with just a week to go. We’ll break down the biggest rumors swirling around—will Isak make a big move? Could Manchester United really sell Garnacho? And is Trent Alexander-Arnold set for a shock transfer to Real Madrid? Beyond the speculation, we’ll discuss what clubs need to do in these crucial final days—who should strengthen, who should sell, and who’s in danger of leaving it too late. We’ll also take a closer look at the controversial PSR Rules, weighing up their pros and cons and questioning whether they’re helping or hurting the English game. With so much on the line, join us as we debate the moves and decisions that could shape the second half of the season.

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Jack & Stu

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Joining us this week is Haydn Hollis, Tamworth FC’s standout performer in their unforgettable FA Cup clash with Tottenham Hotspur. We dive into the build-up to the thrilling third-round tie against the Premier League Giants, that audacious “Maradona” moment against Timo Werner that had everyone talking, and what could have been if FA Cup replays were still around. Haydn also shares insights into the incredible team spirit and togetherness that brought the Lambs to 90 minutes of nail-biting football at 0-0 against Premier League opposition. Don’t miss this inspiring journey into the magic of the FA Cup and Tamworth FC’s remarkable story! 

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Jack, Stu & Haydn

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Join us for a deep dive into life below the Premier League as we explore the world of League One football with a very special guest—Jack’s dad, Steve Koleszar. A lifelong Huddersfield Town fan and former scout for EFL clubs, Steve shares his unique perspective on the highs, lows, and passion of following a team in the lower tiers of English football. From the glory of promotion to the grind of survival, we cover it all in this insightful and heartfelt episode.

We also discuss the importance of recruiting the right players, the unique connection between players and fans at this level, and just how much fun it can be to support a team lower down the pyramid.

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Jack, Stu & Steve

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This week we debate who makes it into our Premier League Team of the Season...so far. We put together the ultimate Starting XI, celebrating the standout players who have defined the Premier League campaign up to this point. From surprise rock-solid defenders to unstoppable goal-scorers, we highlight the stars who have set the standard for excellence.

It wasn’t easy—some tough decisions were made, and some big questions were answered. Has Chris Wood done enough to earn his spot? Who is the standout midfielder this season? And is Trent Alexander-Arnold a lock for right back? We also reflected on the festive period—a whirlwind of games galore and big moments that shaped the table heading into the new year. Tune in to find out who made the cut!

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Jack & Stu

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Join us as we dive into the unique football cultures around the world with Groundhopper Soccer Guides’ Paul Gerald and Michael Bermudez. We explore how football brings people and communities together, from the chants that fill stadiums to the traditions fans hold dear. Hear incredible stories from our guests' experiences visiting games across the globe, including the electric atmosphere at Boca Juniors’ La Bombonera and the old school traditions of teams such as Rayo Vallecano. Discover the matchday moments that make each country’s game special and how the love of football unites fans everywhere. Don’t miss this journey into the heart of the beautiful game!

Check out https://groundhopperguides.com/pitchside/ to learn more about Groundhopper Soccer Guides

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This week we are joined by a pioneer in football, Thomas Grønnemark. Thomas is known as the worlds leading expert in Throw-Ins who has redefined the importance of this often-overlooked aspect of the game. Thomas talks on his philosphy of "The Long, The Fast & The Clever" Throw-in and how the likes of Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Frank have found value in his coaching. Having worked around the world at clubs like Liverpool, Dortmund and Ajax plus many more, Thomas speaks on how he has developed this area of coaching and what a throw-in session might look like.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thomas.throwin/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-gr%C3%B8nnemark/

Website: https://thomasgronnemark.com/

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Jack, Stu & Thomas

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This week, the boys dive into the debate over who deserves the title of the greatest center-back partnership in Premier League history. From iconic duos like Ferdinand and Vidic at Manchester United, whose dominance brought multiple titles, to the legendary pairing of Terry and Carvalho at Chelsea, they explore the stats, chemistry, and legacy left on the pitch. They’ll also discuss partnerships like Morgan and Huth at Leicester during their title winning season and Kompany and Laporte at Manchester City, breaking down what made these defenses so hard to beat and which partnership stands above the rest.

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Jack & Stu

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This week the boys are joined by NCAA Division One, FDU Knights Soccer Coach, Jaymee Highcock, who shares his journey from the UK to the top of the college game. Currently the Head Coach at Farleigh Dickinson University, Jaymee shares his journey from his playing days in the UK to testing out the waters across the pond before making the US his home. Jaymee speaks on what it takes to progress on the coaching ladder and the challenges he has had to face as well as some top tips for both players and coaches looking to get into the College Game.

FDU Knights: https://www.instagram.com/fduknightsmsoc/

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Jack, Stu & Jaymee

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