Walk On: The Athletic FC's Liverpool show

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down the 3–0 win at Anfield, asking what the strong line-up tells us about Slot’s priorities and whether the FA Cup now carries extra importance this season.Then comes the big conversation. Mohamed Salah’s overall numbers are still strong, but his game looks different. The panel dig into his post-AFCON form, his creative output, his relationship with Slot, and where he could be playing football next season if this is to be his last with Liverpool.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony EvansWith: Andy Jones & James PearceProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to discuss Liverpool grinding out a crucial 1–0 win at Sunderland, breaking the Black Cats unbeaten home record this season.The guys analyse Virgil van Dijk’s match-winning goal, a more resilient defensive display, and the growing injury crisis at right-back after Wataru Endo’s setback.There’s a discussion on Ibrahima Konaté’s form and future. Surely the club can’t allow him to leave for free in the summer?The panel also tackle Arne Slot’s latest comments on Champions League qualification and a look ahead to Brighton in the FA Cup. Is this an important competition this season?Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony EvansWith: Andy Jones & Simon HughesProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to dissect the chaotic defeat to Manchester City — from Szoboszlai’s stunning opener to VAR controversy, a red card, and two late City goals.The panel debate whether Liverpool were hard done by or simply running out of steam, before attention turns to a worrying league table. Is Champions League qualification starting to look unlikely?There’s also discussion on Caoimhin Kelleher’s candid comments on Diogo Jota, Curtis Jones’ contract situation, Harvey Elliott’s loan dilemma, fresh injury concerns — and whether Liverpool can steady themselves with a crucial run of fixtures ahead. Next up, a daunting trip to the Stadium of Light.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony EvansWith: Simon Hughes & James PearceProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Simon Hughes join Tony Evans to assess what a quiet deadline means for Arne Slot’s squad, including what to expect from summer arrival Jeremy Jacquet and whether Liverpool are taking a risk on depth. Does Liverpool’s January transfer window close with more questions than answers?The panel dig into Richard Hughes’ recent comments on patient long-term recruitment, debate concerns around centre-back options and squad management, as well as respond to criticism over Slot’s rotation and youth development.Finally, attention turns to a huge clash with Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony EvansWith: Simon Hughs & James PearceProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to react to Liverpool’s 4–1 victory over Newcastle, a game transformed by Hugo Ekitike’s two goals in two minutes and an emotional night for Ibrahima Konaté, who capped his return with a goal.There’s also some deadline day activity to discuss, with Richard Hughes making late moves in the January window, plus the guys discuss Dominik Szoboszlai’s eyebrow raising comments on his Liverpool future.Finally, with Manchester City coming to Anfield next weekend, are Liverpool finally back — or is caution still required?Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony Evans
With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce
Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down Wednesday night’s European rout, standout performances and another injury which further leaves Liverpool frighteningly thin at the backThere’s also reaction to Slot’s eyebrow-raising comments about last season’s title and squad depth, and discussion about why the Liverpool hierarchy are sticking by their man.Finally, attention turns to a huge weekend clash with Newcastle, with Liverpool winless in five league games and looking over their shoulder at the chasing pack of teams just behind them.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comWe’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. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26Host: Tony EvansWith: Simon Hughs & James PearceProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect as Liverpol’s unbeaten run ends at 13 - and in the process sees them drop out of the top four after defeat at Bournemouth.The panel dissect the defensive frailties, late-game collapses and ask who is really to blame for a squad that looks short on options despite spending £450m last summer.There’s also the latest on Andy Robertson’s future, injury updates, and a look ahead to a crucial Champions League clash with Qarabag — with Liverpool’s European hopes increasingly feeling like they could define Slot’s tenure.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comWe’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. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26Host: Tony EvansWith: Andy Jones & James PearceProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregg Evans and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect on a convincing Champions League win in Marseille.The panel assess Mohamed Salah’s role, a standout night for Dominik Szoboszlai, and whether the Hungarian midfielder is now not just Liverpool’s most important player — but a future captain.There’s also discussion on Liverpool’s record-breaking finances, as The Athletic’s Chris Weatherspoon joins the pod to break down the club topping £700m in revenue for the first time and what it means for wages, spending and competitiveness.Finally, attention turns back to domestic matters, with a tricky trip to Bournemouth looming and questions over whether Liverpool can reset their mentality and translate European confidence into Premier League points.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comWe’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. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26Host: Tony EvansWith: Gregg Evans, James Pearce & Chris WeatherspoonProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss that hugely frustrating draw at Anfield against Burnley. Liverpool remain unbeaten — but it doesn’t feel like it!The panel ask the uncomfortable questions about Arne Slot and this most underwhelming of unbeaten runs. Were the boos at full-time justified? With only five wins in the last 17 league games, is this a run of bad luck, bad management, or something more worrying?The guys discuss the latest on Liverpool’s transfer business as Manchester City close in on Marc Guehi, and attention turns to the Champions League and a tricky trip to Marseille, as Liverpool look for answers — and perhaps salvation — in Europe.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony Evans
With: Andy Jones & James Pearce
Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss the return of the Premier League and their concerns over squad depth and selection headaches. Are Liverpool one injury away from crisis?The panel examine Liverpool’s wafer-thin defensive cover, debate whether a January move for reinforcements is now unavoidable, and consider the consequences of standing still in the transfer market.There’s also discussion around Liverpool’s attacking identity, the return of Mohamed Salah and a preview of Burnley on Saturday — a fixture that suddenly feels like a must-win!Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony Evans
With: Andy Jones & James Pearce
Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Adny Jones join Tony Evans to discuss a 4-1 cup win against Barnsley, and whether the availability of Xabi Alonso - relieved of duties this week by Real Madrid - adds any pressure to Arne Slot.The gang start with the win that stretches the unbeaten run to 11. But it wasn’t all plain sailing - what was Dominik Szoboszlai thinking with that backheel in the box?Then the focus shifts to the manager following Xabi Alonso's sacking at Real Madrid - and whether that has any impact on Arne Slot's position.There’s also discussion of whether the youth setup, transfer activity, and more!Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony EvansWith: Andy Jones & James PearceProducers: Guy Clarke & John Rogers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to discuss a decent night for Liverpool away to the league leaders, albeit one that ends in yet another draw.The panel discuss some improved performance in defence and midfield, but once again question the slightly stagnant attack. And they ask whether this has eased pressure on the manager ahead of a busy month.There’s also time for an FA Cup preview, with the Reds facing Barnsley on Monday, and heartfelt tributes to Liverpool great Kevin Keegan following the revealing of his cancer diagnosis.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony EvansWith: Andy Jones & James PearceProducers: Guy Clarke & John Rogers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss the fallout from a bruising draw at Fulham, asking whether this was one of the most deflating moments of the season and how much responsibility Liverpool must take for another late collapse. The panel debate game management after Cody Gakpo’s stoppage-time goal, analyse a blunt first-half display with no shots on target, and assess what Ekitiké’s absence meant for the attack. Plus: the latest on a potential centre back signing, updates on Harvey Elliott’s possible MLS move and a look ahead to a daunting trip to top-of-the-table Arsenal.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony EvansWith: Andy Jones & James PearceProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to discuss Liverpool’s frustrating start to 2026, a goalless draw against Leeds at Anfield.The panel debate whether this felt like two points dropped, assess a quiet showing from Florian Wirtz after his recent breakthrough, and ask whether Hugo Ekitiké was too honest. Should he have gone down to win a penalty?There’s also discussion around Liverpool’s decision to part company with set-piece coach Aaron Briggs, what went wrong, and whether early signs of improvement can already be seen. Plus, the latest on January transfers, loaned-out players, squad depth, and a tricky trip to Fulham on Sunday.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony Evans
With: Andy Jones & James Pearce
Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and Gregg Evans join Tony Evans to discuss Liverpool putting three more points in the Christmas stocking with that nervy 2–1 win over Wolves.They reflect on a poignant day at Anfield as both sets of supporters paid tribute to Diogo Jota, before turning attention to Florian Wirtz’s long-awaited first Premier League goal — a moment of quality that finally ended his 23-game wait and hinted at what may be to come. There’s also a discussion around Liverpool’s ongoing struggles at set pieces, Salah watch with Simon Hughes at AFCON, plus what’s in store for Liverpool this January transfer window.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony Evans
With: Andy Jones & Gregg Evans
Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to look back on a hard-fought win away at a bad-tempered Tottenham, but questions linger over the cost. The guys discuss the latest on a worrying injury to Alexander Isak and what it could mean for Liverpool’s attacking options in the weeks ahead.With injuries mounting, suspensions biting and depth looking thin, attention turns to the January transfer window. Will Liverpool be forced into spending? James and Andy give us their transfer wish lists as Walk On signs off for the festive break.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony EvansWith: James Pearce and Andy JonesProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to break down how Ekitike has established himself as the club’s No.1 up front, and what his rise means for Alexander Isak and the wider dressing-room dynamics?The panel also digs into Arne Slot’s recent tactical tweaks. Is the diamond is here to stay? Which players are thriving in the new system? And how should Liverpool line up for the trip to Tottenham?We also get an update on news this week of Paul Doyle’s prison sentence for the appalling attack at the Liverpool title parade in the summer.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony EvansWith: James Pearce and Andy JonesProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Oliver Kay join Tony Evans to unpack a calmer Anfield afternoon that still carried big implications. They assess Salah’s impact off the bench, his historic 277th goal involvement for the club — surpassing Wayne Rooney’s record — and what his role against Brighton tells us as he departs for AFCON.Was this a pause in the saga… or the beginning of the end?The conversation then turns bigger and deeper. The panel debate the difference between being a Liverpool legend and leaving a lasting legacy. Is on-pitch brilliance enough? What really defines an all-time great at this club? And how do Salah’s eight years at Anfield compare to figures like Dalglish, Fowler, Gerrard, Suárez & Henderson?Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony EvansWith: James Pearce and Oliver KayProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and Andy Jones join Tony Evans for the latest instalment of the Salah saga.Liverpool returned from the San Siro with a vital Champions League win — but the story of the week remains Mohamed Salah’s explosive outburst and uncertain future at Anfield.The guys reflect on Arne Slot’s calm handling of the chaos, Liverpool sticking together in Italy, and what that Slot–Seedorf exchange really tells us about the next steps in the Salah dispute.The panel also look ahead to Saturday at home to Brighton, which some say, could be Mohamed Salah’s last match in the red shirt!Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony EvansWith: Andy Jones & Simon HughesProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce, Simon Hughes and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to unpack an explosive weekend at Liverpool, as Mohamed Salah publicly vents his frustrations after the draw at Leeds.The panel debate how relations between Salah and Arne Slot have deteriorated, what this means for the dressing room and the club’s hierarchy, and whether a January exit has suddenly become a real possibility.The guys also reflect on more points dropped, the form of Konaté and Gakpo, Ekitike’s impact, and look ahead to Tuesday’s trip to Milan.Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.comHost: Tony EvansWith: Andy Jones, Simon Hughes & James PearceProducers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.