Episode 858: Pep’s Little Club, Zabaleta’s Farewell, Measuring Effort, Northeast Esteem
The Premier League is playing itself out. Some things don’t change: Manchester United have sealed sixth place. Some things do: Pep Guardiola is drinking with Tony Pulis and taking pot-shots at Arsene Wenger.
Pep Guardiola: ‘In my situation in a big club, I’m sacked. I am out. The clubs I was in before, I wouldn’t be here’ https://t.co/dvjvGotMAH pic.twitter.com/YRzN4XNze0
— Guardian sport (@guardian_sport) May 16, 2017
Eoin dreams of final day drama in days gone by, and explores the amazing mathematical mash-up that could, but definitely wont, lead to more excitement at the top of the table.
At the other end of the league, the four North East clubs are sticking together by finishing in consecutive places: 18th, 19th, 20th and 1st (Championship).
Michael Walker joins us to reflect on a bad season for football in the region. Is it a blow to the regional self-esteem? Will Sunderland be capable of rebuilding a promotion team under the ownership of Ellis Short? Does anyone believe things can get better?
Plus there’s Zabaleta’s fond farewell, effort as a predictor of success, Pep’s little club, Man United’s unique success – profit formula, why James Rodriguez is not a Jose signing, and we place a sash over Mr May….. Mesut Ozil of Arsenal Football Club.
12 – @MesutOzil1088 created 12 chances for team-mates v Sunderland, more than any player in any Premier League game since 2003. Orchestrated
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) May 17, 2017
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Go to PatreonThis week’s Murph’s Country Pages™ features The Wire, young women drinking alcohol, and feudin’ priests! ??? https://t.co/bVzH4eNQ8C pic.twitter.com/Ua0br1VHco
— Second Captains (@SecondCaptains) May 16, 2017