Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to assess the bigger picture at Anfield. With Arne Slot insisting the future looks promising, the panel ask whether that optimism is justified — or if major questions still need answering.

A big focus is on the goalkeeping situation. With injuries to Alisson Becker and Giorgi Mamardashvili, and Freddie Woodman stepping in, what does Liverpool’s long-term plan look like between the posts?

Plus, a preview of the weekend clash with Crystal Palace — a side that has caused Liverpool plenty of recent problems!

Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com

Host: 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 react to a dramatic derby day victory over Everton, sealed by a towering late header from Virgil van Dijk. Was it Liverpool’s most significant win of the season — and does the performance even matter if the result is this big?

There’s also fresh insight into Ibrahima Konaté’s contract situation, with positive signs emerging — and what that could mean for Liverpool’s summer plans.

Plus, inspired by Simon’s latest piece, the conversation turns to a bigger question: what does it really mean to represent Liverpool? With many key figures living away from the city, does that disconnect matter — or is it simply part of the modern game?

Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com

Host: Tony Evans

With: Simon Hughes & 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 assess the fallout from defeat to Paris Saint-Germain — and the devastating news that Ekitike is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines. What does his absence mean for the remainder of the season and the summer transfer window?

With Ekitike out, the spotlight turns firmly to Alexander Isak. The panel discuss whether he’s ready to lead the line after a slow start to life at Anfield, while also taking a closer look at Florian Wirtz — and why these final weeks of the season could define how he’s judged.

Plus, a look ahead to a huge Merseyside derby away at Everton, and how Liverpool adapt without their main striker as the race for the top five intensifies.

Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com

Host: Tony Evans

With: Andy Jones & 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 reflect on a much-needed win over Fulham, headlined by 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha, who became Liverpool’s youngest-ever league scorer at Anfield.

The panel discuss whether this is the emergence of a genuine wildcard option ahead of the decisive Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain — or simply a rare bright spot in an inconsistent campaign.

Off the pitch, attention turns to growing fan unrest, with reaction to ticket price protests and wider questions around access, ownership, and the club’s long-term direction. Plus, Andy Robertson’s confirmed departure brings reflection on his legacy and where he ranks among Liverpool’s best ever signings.

Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com

Host: 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 Andy Jones join Tony Evans to reflect on the 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain with zero shots on target, just 26% possession, and Arne Slot admitting his side were in “survival mode”.

The panel assess Slot’s tactical calls, including the decision to deploy a five-man defence and leave Mohamed Salah, unused, on the bench. There’s also a closer look at Hugo Ekitike’s difficult return to Paris, what Alexander Isak’s comeback could mean for the run-in, and whether the tie is already beyond Liverpool ahead of the second leg at Anfield.

Plus, reaction to growing unrest around the club — from ticket price rises to wider questions about FSG’s stewardship — and whether the disconnect between fans, players and ownership is turning into a broader identity crisis.

Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com

Host: Tony Evans

With: Simon Hughes & Andy Jones

Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect on Liverpool’s heavy FA Cup defeat to Manchester City and Slot’s comments on a lack of “fighting spirit.”

The panel assess whether Slot was right to question his players so publicly, the recurring defensive issues that continue to cost Liverpool, and whether senior figures like Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah are doing enough in key moments.

Attention then turns to Paris Saint-Germain, with The Athletic’s Tom Williams joining to give the French perspective ahead of Wednesday’s clash. How dangerous are PSG, and how big a challenge do they pose to a fragile Liverpool side?

With confidence shaken and the stakes rising, the panel debate just how crucial these next two games are — not just for Liverpool’s season, but for Slot’s future.

Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com

Host: Tony Evans

With: Simon Hughes, James Pearce & Tom Williams

Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to preview the FA Cup clash with Manchester City on Saturday and debate where Arne Slot should be focusing his attention. The panel weigh up the importance of the FA Cup against the demands of the Premier League and Champions League, with a packed schedule forcing tough decisions. Should Slot go full strength, or rotate with PSG looming?

There’s also a deep dive into listener questions — from whether a true “Liverpool way” still exists under Slot, to who carries the most responsibility for an underwhelming season, and concerns around the manager’s man-management style.

Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com

Host: Tony Evans

With: Andy Jones & 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 the reasons behind Salah’s departure. The panel discuss the role Slot played in Salah’s exit, the tensions that emerged during the season, and whether this feels like a natural conclusion or a slightly sour ending to a remarkable chapter.

There’s also talk around Liverpool’s future and whether abandoning the plan of Arne Slot at the helm would actually set the club further back. There are heated discussions around PSG’s successful attempt to postpone their league match, giving them an edge in the Champions League, plus Jürgen Klopp has been back at Anfield.

Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com

Host: Tony Evans

With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce

Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.