Team of the eighties

Right up front: we’re agreed that the main thing for Palace right now is to be realistic — hang onto Premier League survival, recruit smartly, and not pretend we can suddenly leap into the old big six. I’m Gary Spencer and I’ve got Bruce Millington on — a proper South Norwood lad, Racing Post ex-editor and Palace lifer — and we chew through half a century of memories from the 76 cup run to the 90 final, the ultras, and those mad away days where you kept one eye on the match and one eye on the bricks. We talk stadiums too: I moan about the Arthur Wait squeeze and Bruce lays out why the new main stand is crucial but pricey, and why Parish and the board deserve credit for keeping us punching above our weight. We argue managers, from Glasner’s solidity to the new bloke’s looser style, and whether patience still exists in today’s game — I’m slightly sceptical, Bruce is cautiously hopeful. We also pick over players — Wilf, Eze, Kamada, Wharton, Sarmiento — and why smart recruitment and squad depth matter more than splashy transfers. If you want nostalgia, practical realism and a bit of banter about the state of Croydon and the club’s future, this is the one to stick on. I'm Bruce Millington here: long-time Palace fan, ex-Racing Post editor, and somebody who grew up half a mile from Selhurst. I tell Gary how I stumbled into journalism (greyhound tracks, a lucky foot in the door) and how the game and the media have changed — from a paper-first Racing Post to apps, to betting regulation that’s now overbearing for your nan. I talk about the club’s peaks and troughs honestly: the misery of the early 80s, the thrill when Venables and Allison lit things up, then more recent glory with the FA Cup and European nights. We debate managers, and I admit Glasner gave us two brilliant years; the new bloke needs time but the defence looks shakier without Lacroix, Gay and Munoz. I also get a bit sentimental: I had prostate cancer before the FA Cup final, so that win means more than football. Bottom line — recruit wisely, stay sensible, and we’ll keep punching above our weight. We both take a hard look forward. We agree that short-term results over the next six months will set the tone for years to come: if Sarr and the current manager bed in, Palace can stabilise in the top flight; if not, realistic expectations mean mid‑table survival is the sensible target. Squad-wise we still have attacking firepower — Eze, Kamada (who’s grown into a beauty), Wharton — but the defence needs shoring up after losing key pieces and Riyad’s awful ACL. The new stand is a double-edged sword: a fantastic fan upgrade but a financial strain to be managed. We mix stories and straight talk: remember the community feel, back the chairman who rebuilt the club, and above all, be pragmatic. Up the Palace — enjoy the highs, accept the lows, and let sensible recruitment and coaching do the rest.

Takeaways:

• I reckon our priority has to be staying in the Premier League rather than dreaming of top-six finished seasons.
• We both agreed the new main stand is vital for Selhurst’s future but it mustn’t saddle the club with reckless debt.
• I said give the new manager three months to bed things in, though we know fans will judge results far too quickly.
• We reminisced about the 1976 cup run and the Team of the 80s era, showing that atmosphere follows performances more than slogans.
• I defended Parish and the board — they took Palace from the brink to trophies and European nights, so give credit where it’s due.
• We worry about losing key defenders like Riyad and Lacroix; sensible recruitment and shrewd spending must plug those defensive holes.
• I loved telling the story of walking into Selhurst as a kid — those memories explain why we stick with Palace through thick and thin.
• We also flagged modern betting regulation and how measures meant to protect vulnerable punters sometimes burden harmless fans like our nans who enjoyed a small daily punt.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Racing Post
• The Sporting Life
• Mecca
• DraftKings
• The Guardian
• Premier League
• UK Gambling Commission
• Crystal Palace F.C.
• Millwall F.C.
• Manchester United F.C.
• Arsenal F.C.
• Tottenham Hotspur F.C.
• Everton F.C.
• Charlton Athletic F.C.
• AFC Bournemouth
• Liverpool F.C.
• Ipswich Town F.C.
• Luton Town F.C.
• Sunderland A.F.C.
• Chelsea F.C.
• Southampton F.C.

You can feel the Wembley Sunday in my bones — the way we rolled into that semi-final was almost comical. We’d been joking in Karaoke five minutes from my flat in Putney, me telling everyone to back Liverpool because secretly we thought we couldn’t win. Then Pemberton rips that world-class cross, Brighty stoops and we’re level; the crowd goes ballistic. I remember thinking like a kid again, picturing myself chesting a cross and getting on the end of it — instinct took over. When I hit that chance late on and the net bulged, I leapt into the crowd because that’s what Big Tomo used to do at Villa and, well, the Palace fans deserved every bit of it. That afternoon wasn’t just a result, it was the pinnacle of everything I’d worked for since I was eleven. Looking back, the game had everything: the underdogs against the establishment, moments of pure chaos, and a feeling that none of us would ever forget. I talk about it like I talk to my mates — honest, a bit cocky, but proud. That night cemented my bond with Palace; whatever else happened in my career, nobody can take away that connection. Bright, Pembo, the lads — they’re in the story and so are the fans. It’s the kind of memory you replay forever.

Takeaways:

• I believe that FA Cup semi-final at Villa Park was the pinnacle of my powers, unforgettable and historic.
• When England called I played despite a niggling hamstring, and that debut put pressure on my game afterwards.
• We were relaxed before the Liverpool semi — karaoke, a beer and that 'don't embarrass us on national TV' vibe — and that loose mindset helped fuel our comeback.
• I regret turning down Palace when Alan Smith offered a route back; that was the worst decision that stalled my attempt to get back on top, and I apologised later.
• Scoring that goal was pure instinct from years of playing — I made the run because my gut told me the chance would come.
• I've been Palace through-and-through since I was eleven; that bond is mine forever, mate, and nobody can take those big nights away from me.
• Football's changed with money, hospitality and ultras coming and going — I really miss the old days of fry-ups, Morrises and real player-fan connection.
• Confidence is everything in this game; when it wobbles you start trying to be someone you're not, your basics go and your game falls apart.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Crystal Palace F.C.
• Queens Park Rangers F.C.
• Liverpool F.C.
• Portsmouth F.C.
• Cambridge United F.C.
• Wimbledon F.C.
• Aston Villa F.C.
• Tottenham Hotspur F.C.
• Swindon Town F.C.
• Falkirk F.C.
• Celtic F.C.
• Atlético Madrid
• McDonald's
• Twitter
• WhatsApp
• YouTube

I chat with Andy Gray about getting sacked at 16, drifting into non‑league and then clawing his way back to Crystal Palace and beyond — a proper underdog tale that set the tone for everything that follows. We laugh about the old days — nutmegs, sitting pitch‑side on the dugout bench, and the lads in the Glaziers after the game — and Andy tells it straight about why he thinks the pre‑80s lads were better than the later side that finished third. We dig into how the game’s changed — the money, the marketing, players not mingling with fans anymore, and how tactical fashions have sometimes lost the simple art of getting the ball into the box. Andy breaks down positions, characters and what made players like Peter Nicholas, John Burridge and Jim Cannon stand out, and he’s honest about his own journey from non‑league cracking goals for the commentators to signing again for Palace. Stick around: we finish by teasing part two, where Andy will tell us about his England call‑up, that FA Cup semi against Liverpool and what he felt was the end of his top‑level career.

Takeaways:

• I learned that back in the day players mingled with fans in the Glaziers after games, and that closeness meant football truly belonged to us.
• We reckon modern football is overbranded, players don't feel the club like we did, and money's changed loyalties completely.
• I had a proper non-league comeback story — playing Tuesday vets, impressing commentators, then suddenly signed back into the pro game.
• We argue centre forward roles have shifted: if you're big like Mateta you should hold it up and bully defenders.
• I prefer the old tactics: get wingers to cross into the box and go long early, not endless slow build-ups.
• We miss the training-ground intimacy and summer jobs — lads carrying bricks, living normal lives, not superyachts and isolation.
• I admit our side lacked togetherness compared with the later eighties team, yet individual quality still shone through.
• We laugh at modern pundits sometimes; some talk absolute rubbish but a few, like Simon Jordan, actually add smart insight.

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I'm telling you straight away: Sage is out of his depth — his team selection and what he does in-game cost us against Ipswich and have left the dressing room short on leadership. We had our captain Henderson left out, odd armband choices and baffling substitutions that meant we didn't even protect a point when we should have. There were a few bright sparks — Timber looked great and Gozo, when given a proper run, could be useful — and I still think the recruitment this summer wasn't a disaster. But get real, we shouldn't be dreaming about Europa glory; our bread and butter right now is staying in the Premier League. I’ll defend Steve Parish on many of his signings, but whoever’s making the call on Sage needs to act if results don't improve. Stick around for the Andy Gray interview on September 22nd, and as always like, comment and subscribe — come on you Palace.

Takeaways:

• I believe Sarge is out of his depth right now and his in-game choices cost us points and momentum.
• I think giving the captaincy to our goalkeeper Walton was wrong; we desperately needed more vocal midfield leadership when Henderson wasn't playing.
• I don't understand Sarge's substitutions and tactical changes; he should've altered the system after the red card to protect a point.
• Timber was a real positive for me and I genuinely think Gozo should have started to build confidence and show what he can do.
• The wrist-strapping fad around the dressing room looks like a fashion statement to me, not a genuine injury-prevention measure worth encouraging.
• We're not going to win the Europa League this year; I want us to concentrate on staying in the Premier League and sorting the basics out.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Crystal Palace Football Club
• Liverpool Football Club
• Ipswich Town Football Club
• Manchester City Football Club
• Manchester United Football Club
• Fulham Football Club
• Middlesbrough Football Club
• Leeds United Football Club
• Carabao
• Twitter
• Instagram
• TikTok

In this episode, we dive into the rollercoaster of emotions following Fulham's recent match against Palace, where we snagged three crucial points despite a rough performance. We reflect on the ups and downs of the game, from Mitchell's stellar assist to the comical nature of some goals, and the mixed reactions of fans on Twitter. It’s clear that while we’re celebrating the win, there are underlying concerns about our team’s cohesion and the contributions of certain players. We also touch on the need for key players to return and step up, especially with upcoming fixtures on the horizon. Lastly, I’m excited to tease my upcoming interview with Andy Gray, which promises to be a fantastic chat you won't want to miss!

Takeaways:

• Three points in the Premier League are incredibly hard to secure, making every win significant.
• Despite our recent victory, we need to acknowledge that the performance was far from polished.
• Fans often romanticize player statements, but let's face it, it's mostly PR fluff these days.
• We're optimistic about the League Cup this season, as we can build a strong team and possibly go far.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Fulham
• Palace
• Chelsea
• Stoke
• Middlesbrough

This week, we're diving deep into the current state of Crystal Palace and the challenges facing the club and its players. As we discuss the unsettling lack of player commitment and the uninspiring management under Sage, it’s clear that something's got to give. I’m reflecting on our recent performances and the unsettling trend of players seeking bigger paydays and clubs, leaving us questioning how much they really believe in the current setup. We also take a moment to appreciate the Ultras and their impact, while acknowledging that a great atmosphere can only thrive when the team is performing well. Join me as I unpack these pressing issues, share my thoughts on the recent transfer rumors, and invite you to weigh in on what we can do to turn things around. Diving straight into the heart of the matter, we kick off with a reflection on our recent conversation with the legendary Andy Gray. Having spent two and a half hours with him, I was reminded of what it means to be part of the footballing world that shaped our childhoods. Andy, known for his iconic goal at Liverpool during the FA Cup semi-final, shared stories that resonated deeply with me, and I can't wait to bring that episode to you during the international break. But before we get lost in nostalgia, let’s talk about the current state of our beloved Crystal Palace. The recent performances have left me less than impressed, and I’m not shy about voicing my concerns regarding the management under Sage. It’s a tough pill to swallow when you feel that the team isn’t buying into the philosophy being laid down. With players leaving for bigger paydays and clubs, it’s clear there’s a disconnect that needs addressing. I mean, just look at the energy at other clubs—players are committed because they believe in their managers. We need to find that spirit again if we want to see improvement on the pitch. Moving on, the recent disbandment of the Ultras has stirred a lot of emotions, and while I appreciate their impact on the club, I can’t help but feel that their legacy was more of a media PR win than a genuine atmosphere enhancer at games. Sure, we’ve had some electrifying moments at Selhurst Park, but nothing can replace the experience of a team that plays with heart and determination. When the team falters, so does the atmosphere, and let’s face it, we’ve been struggling lately. If we want the fans to rally behind us, we need to give them a reason to cheer. The onus is on the players and management to foster that connection. Lastly, let’s address the elephant in the room: player loyalty—or the lack thereof. It’s a harsh reality that many players prioritize financial gain over club loyalty these days. We can’t expect players to wear their hearts on their sleeves when they’re looking for their last big contract. It’s the reality of modern football. As fans, we have to temper our expectations and understand that while we cherish our club, many players are simply looking for the best opportunity available. So, as we navigate through this season, let’s remember to support our team while also recognizing the challenging landscape of football today. Here’s hoping we can turn things around and find the passion that makes being a Palace fan so special.

Takeaways:

• We had a fantastic chat with Andy Gray last week, reminiscing about our schoolboy days together.
• The atmosphere at Selhurst Park is directly tied to how well the team performs on the pitch.
• There's a lot of noise about players leaving, and it boils down to ambition and better pay elsewhere.
• With our current management, players seem less inspired, leading to concerns about their commitment to the club.
• Loyalty in football is a thing of the past; players chase bigger contracts and opportunities now.
• Refereeing decisions this season have been questionable, highlighting inconsistencies that frustrate fans.

Links referenced in this episode:

• teamofthe80s
• applepodcast
• amazon
• spotify
• youtube
• twitter
• tiktok
• instagram

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Crystal Palace
• Mourinho
• Venga
• Klopp
• Unai Emery
• Liverpool
• Arsenal
• Manchester United
• Sage
• Mateta
• Gahi
• Drinkwater
• Culte Coney
• Danny Simpson

We're diving deep into the aftermath of the Everton game, and let me tell you, it wasn't pretty. We're all feeling the weight of last season's finishing woes, and as much as I’d love to say we’re on the up, it seems we're gearing up for another frustrating ride. The missed chances, especially from Mateta and Eddie, are haunting us—how do you miss those sitters? I can't help but think we need to shake things up with our lineup, and I’m seriously itching to see Gozo get some time on the pitch. Plus, there’s the ongoing saga with Sa and the murmurs about his potential departure—could he really be off to Galatasaray? As we look ahead to the Man City match, we really need to step our game up or risk getting turned over again. Come on, Palace, let’s find some fire! After taking a step back and processing our match against Everton, I’m left feeling a mix of disappointment and concern about our finishing. We can’t have another season where we squander chances like we did on Saturday. It baffles me that Mateta and Eddie are only ineffective when it counts. If their training shows anything, it’s clear we need to reassess our striking options. We had golden opportunities to take control of the game, but instead, we lost our grip, allowing Everton to capitalize on our mistakes. The confidence among the players took a hit; that’s evident in how quickly we fell apart in the second half. The defensive breakdowns were alarming, especially on the second goal where we failed to mark our opponents adequately. There were just too many errors that led to Everton’s success, and we can’t afford that kind of performance if we want to stay competitive. I truly believe that Gozo could be the impact player we need right now. He has a proven ability to finish and could bring a different dimension to our attack. Looking at the player movements, I understand why someone like Sa would consider a move to Galatasaray; it’s an exciting opportunity, especially with Champions League football on the table. The days of players showing loyalty to clubs seem to be fading, and it’s something we, as fans, have to come to terms with. Expectations have risen since we won trophies, and while it’s fantastic to celebrate those moments, we need to be realistic about our current situation. A top-half finish would be a major victory for us, particularly given the depth issues we’re facing in our squad. The dual challenge of managing both the Premier League and European competitions is daunting, and our focus must be on securing points in the league first. As we look ahead to the match against Man City, we need to raise our game significantly. If we don’t, we risk being completely outclassed. It’s essential that our players come ready to fight for every point. The need for strong leadership is apparent; without it, we might face a tough decision regarding management if results don’t improve soon. I just want to see a team that embodies passion and determination. Here’s to hoping for a brighter performance against the challenges that lie ahead.

Takeaways:

• After the Everton game, I realized we cannot afford to miss chances like that again; we were quite dreadful in the second half.
• It's crucial for us to maintain our confidence; without it, we could easily fall back into last season's struggles.
• I genuinely believe we need to involve players like Gozo more in our squad; he could bring a different dynamic to the team.
• Our finishing has been poor, and if Mateta isn't scoring, he's not contributing enough for us up front.
• Fans need to be realistic about our expectations this season; looking at our squad depth, we have to manage our aspirations accordingly.
• With the upcoming match against Man City, we absolutely must step up our performance or we risk a heavy defeat.

Today, we're diving into the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with supporting a team that’s struggling to find its footing. We kick things off by discussing a disappointing performance against Everton, where we missed crucial chances that could have turned the tide. It’s clear that confidence is slipping away, especially with players like Mateta blowing hot and cold—mostly cold, if I’m being honest. I can’t help but feel that we’re in for a tough season ahead, particularly with our unproven manager and a lack of consistent goal-scoring. We’ve got to get it right quickly, especially with tough matches like Man City looming on the horizon. So buckle up as we analyze the patterns of play, the players we need in the squad, and the urgent need for improvement.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Galatasaray
• Man City

Steve Lovell joins us for a delightful trip down memory lane as we reminisce about our shared football journeys, from our youthful days in the late '70s to the vibrant stories that shaped our careers. We dive into the nostalgic camaraderie we had on and off the pitch, sharing laughs about the good times that, in today's world, would definitely raise a few eyebrows. Steve recounts his transition from a young footballer at Crystal Palace, where he had to work hard to carve out a spot in a talented squad, to his impactful years at Millwall, where he thrived as a forward, scoring record-breaking goals. We also touch on the evolution of the game, contrasting our experiences with the modern era of football and its financial disparities, and how that has impacted the relationship between players and fans. With a sprinkle of humor and a lot of heart, we reflect on our shared passion for football and the lasting friendships that have come from it.

Takeaways:

• Steve Lovell reminisced about the camaraderie and shared experiences of football in the late 70s and early 80s, highlighting how things were different back then.
• The importance of Malcolm Allison in Steve's career was emphasized, as he was instrumental in bringing players to Crystal Palace and shaping their futures.
• Steve's transition from defender to forward at Millwall was a turning point, showcasing his adaptability and determination to excel despite challenges.
• The podcast discussed how player salaries have changed over the years, creating a divide between fans and players that wasn't present in the past.
• There was a humorous anecdote about Steve's nickname 'Bionic,' stemming from a sprint race during training that led to a lasting legacy among teammates.
• The conversation touched on the impact of management styles in football, with Steve reflecting on the importance of good man management for team success.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Crystal Palace
• Swansea City
• Leeds United
• Manchester City
• Manchester United
• Tottenham Hotspur
• Millwall
• Gillingham
• Aston Villa
• Everton
• Chelsea
• Wales
• Terry Venables
• George Graham
• Malcolm Allison
• Terry Fennec
• Jerry Murphy
• Peter Nicholas
• Kenny Sands
• Vince Alley
• Alamari
• John Cartwright
• Barry Silkman
• Rashid Harcourt
• Mike England
• Eddie McCready
• Charlie Cook
• Georgie Best
• Franz Beckenbauer
• Rodney Marsh
• Trevor Francis
• Paul Jewell
• Justin Edinburgh
• Theo Foley

This week, we’re diving deep into the transfer market, focusing on our beloved Crystal Palace and the expectations that often come with it. It seems every year, we find ourselves either underwhelmed or overly optimistic about the moves made, and this time is no different. We’ll be discussing the recent swap of Brennan Johnson for McNeil, and whether it’s a wise choice given Johnson's shaky confidence. As the season approaches, I can't help but feel that it might be starting a bit too soon—after all, who really enjoys jumping back into the fray right after a World Cup? Let’s also reflect on the historical transfer decisions we've made since 2014 and how they've shaped our current squad, as I share my thoughts on what to expect this season. Grab a seat, and let’s get into it!

Takeaways:

• We need to manage our expectations as Crystal Palace fans regarding the transfer market.
• The team has had a fair share of successful transfers over the years, contributing to our stability.
• It's vital to appreciate Steve Parish's efforts in keeping us competitive without overspending.
• The pressure of competing in the Premier League is immense, and we should be realistic in our goals.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Crystal Palace
• Tottenham
• Forest
• Man United
• Watford
• Millwall
• Gillingham
• Benfica
• AS Roma