Podcast Summary
Media dismissals, UK state: Mark Lawrenson shares his experience of being unexpectedly let go from the BBC during a wave of dismissals of middle-aged white men in media. He discusses the lack of respectful communication from the BBC and his positive outlook despite the disrespectful handling of his dismissal.
Former footballer and ex-BBC presenter Mark Lawrenson was unexpectedly let go from the BBC during a time when many middle-aged white men were being dismissed from mainstream media. He shares his experience of being fired and discusses his shocking revelations about the state of the UK. Lawrenson also delves into the topic of footballer salaries and the financial fair play rules, specifically mentioning Manchester City. Throughout the conversation, Lawrenson expresses his thoughts on free speech and the treatment of older presenters in media. Whether you're a football fan, a fan of free speech, or someone concerned about the state of the UK, this episode is sure to resonate with you. Lawrenson reflects on his experience of being fired by the BBC, sharing that the way it was handled left him feeling disrespected. He believes that the BBC could have communicated the change more effectively and with more respect for his long-standing career. Despite this, Lawrenson remains positive and expresses his appreciation for the opportunities he's had throughout his career.
Impact of commentator's perspective: The perspective and expertise of commentators, whether male or female, significantly impact the viewing experience of football matches. Good commentary enhances enjoyment, but censorship and political correctness can limit commentators' abilities and impact their careers.
The perspective and expertise of commentators, whether male or female, significantly impact the viewing experience of football matches. The speaker acknowledges the differences between the male and female games but emphasizes the importance of good commentary in enhancing the enjoyment of the sport. The speaker also reflects on how the commentary industry has evolved and the influence of public opinion and political correctness on what can be said. The speaker shares personal experiences of being censored and the impact it had on their commentating career. Ultimately, the speaker argues that the media landscape has become more complex with the proliferation of opinions, and the value of a knowledgeable and engaging commentator remains crucial.
Manager-Media Dynamics: Managers like Klopp add excitement to football with witty press conferences but can lead to misunderstandings and mental health issues due to media pressure and public criticism.
The dynamic between football managers and the media, as well as the public, has significantly changed over the years. Managers like Klopp are known for their witty and engaging responses during press conferences, which can be seen as a way to add excitement and spice up the otherwise mundane pre-match build-up. However, this can also lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations, especially in the age of social media where information spreads rapidly and secrets are hard to keep. The pressure on managers and players to perform and please the fans has increased, leading to a culture where mistakes are heavily criticized and even canceled. This can be detrimental to the mental health of individuals and hinder their ability to perform at their best. It is essential to strike a balance between allowing freedom of expression and maintaining a respectful and supportive environment.
Football management evolution: Modern football management requires a softer, cleverer approach due to player agency and financial complexities, but also presents opportunities for growth and success.
The dynamic between managers and players in professional football has evolved significantly over the years. In the past, managers could use tough methods to motivate their teams and avoid relegation, but now they need to be softer and cleverer to navigate the complexities of modern football. Players are more likely to leave clubs quickly, often influenced by their agents, and loyalty seems to be a thing of the past due in part to the enormous sums of money involved. However, not all changes are negative. Agents play a role in the transfer market, and players have more opportunities to pursue their careers. Ultimately, the game is more business-oriented, and both parties must adapt to thrive.
Perseverance in politics and football: Despite challenges, it's important to persevere and work towards improvement in politics and football, with open dialogue and accountability key to addressing issues like dishonesty and the influence of money.
Both in society and football, there's a tendency for people to give up or abandon situations when they become challenging, instead of sticking it out and working to improve. This attitude was discussed in relation to politics and the UK, specifically the perceived dishonesty and lack of accountability among politicians. The conversation also touched on the influence of money in football, with the influx of big investments leading to both positive developments and negative consequences such as greed. Ultimately, it was emphasized that free speech and open dialogue are essential for addressing these issues and effecting change.
Taxes and Football Salaries: Paying high taxes can significantly reduce footballers' earnings, and missing opportunities to negotiate injury compensation clauses can lead to financial regrets.
During his time at Liverpool, the speaker earned the most, approximately 120 grand, when they won three competitions in a year. However, he was paying a high tax rate of 87p in the pound. When Ian Rush left for Juventus, the speaker was offered a new contract but missed an opportunity to negotiate a clause for injury compensation. Later, he found out that Juventus had tried to sign him, and he regretted not going abroad for new experiences and challenges. Regarding the ongoing controversy about Man City and financial fair play rules, the speaker believes they have broken the rules but doubts they will face severe consequences, such as point deductions or heavy fines. He also believes footballers are entertainers who deserve their high salaries and that players have more power now due to medical testing that can be used as an excuse for being left out of the team.
Footballer's workload in the past: In the 1980s, footballers played more games per season with less rest and recovery time compared to today, which impacted their performance and enjoyment.
The demands on professional footballers today pale in comparison to the past. Players in the 1980s, like the speaker, played far more games in a season and had less time for rest and recovery. For instance, in 1984, when Liverpool won the European Cup, only a few players played over 60 games in a single season, which equates to around 1.5 games per week. This intense schedule included travel, training, and other commitments, leaving little time for rest. Despite the heavy workload, some players thrived in the rhythm of constant competition, but others, like the speaker, didn't enjoy training and preferred to focus on their upcoming matches. The unique bus system used by Liverpool kept players together and prevented excessive training, as they all returned to Anfield after each session. However, the stories of mischief on the bus show that even in the midst of intense competition, there was room for camaraderie and fun. Ultimately, what made a great manager was their ability to make players better through their intelligence and guidance.
Informal team selection process at Liverpool FC: Communication and level-headedness were key in informal team selection process at Liverpool FC under Bob Paisley. Staying humble and respecting teammates was emphasized, while the use of VAR in modern soccer was criticized for adding pressure and disrupting flow.
During the speaker's time playing professional soccer for Liverpool FC under Bob Paisley, the team selection process was informal and relied on open communication and level-headedness among the players and coaching staff. The speaker recounted an experience where he had to ask Ronnie Moran if he should bring his kit for an upcoming game because there was no team list posted, and the decision was made through a casual conversation between Moran and Paisley. The importance of staying level-headed and humble was emphasized, as some players, like Graeme Souness, were known for their aggressive playing style but respected by their teammates. The speaker also expressed his disapproval of the use of Video Assistant Referees (VAR) in modern soccer, arguing that it adds unnecessary pressure to referees and disrupts the flow of the game. Instead, he suggested having experienced coaches or managers assist with VAR decisions in real-time.
Rugby League vs. Football referee decisions: The speaker advocates for rugby league's approach to referee decisions and disciplinary actions, believing it leads to a faster-paced game with less disruption. He suggests implementing shorter suspensions for yellow cards and eliminating red card debates in football.
The speaker believes rugby league football handles referee decisions and disciplinary actions more effectively than football, leading to a faster-paced game and less disruption. He suggests implementing a 10-minute suspension for yellow cards and eliminating the debate over red cards in football. The speaker also shares his experiences as a professional footballer, expressing that the pressure to win is a significant aspect of the sport, and winning and losing are the only things that truly matter. He shares a story about Alan Kennedy, who was mistakenly identified and played despite not being fit, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and resilience in football. The worst injury the speaker ever saw was a Coventry center half's leg being dislocated during a game, leaving a lasting impression. The speaker does not express a definitive answer to who the best footballer of all time is, but acknowledges Messi's team play as a significant factor in his success.
Messi vs Charlton, underrated players: The speaker, with a rich football background, sees Messi as the greatest due to skills & team support, reflects on Charlton's greatness, and considers Whelan underrated.
The speaker, who has a rich background in football as a player and commentator, strongly believes that Lionel Messi is the greatest footballer he's ever seen due to his exceptional skills and the team being built around him. Bobby Charlton is mentioned as one of the best English footballers ever. Ronnie Whelan is considered an underrated player despite his important goals and vision. The speaker reflects on how their extensive experience and knowledge from playing for a top team helped them transition into commentary and punditry. They also discuss the importance of having seen something others might not and the difference in media coverage now compared to their playing days. The speaker expresses that they never worried about opportunities beyond their football career due to the financial security they earned. The conversation also touches on the camaraderie and team spirit in football and the impact of winning competitions. The speaker shares a personal experience of having to choose between football and cricket at a young age and ultimately making the right decision. The biggest disruption in their life was their mother leaving them when they were young.
Unexpected losses, family bonds: Discovering unexpected losses can be difficult, but the love and memories shared with loved ones can provide strength and resilience. Following passions and taking risks can lead to opportunities.
Life can present unexpected challenges and losses, but the memories and love shared with loved ones can provide strength and resilience. The speaker shared a poignant story about discovering his mother's departure while he was a child, which was made more difficult due to his father's kindness and his strong bond with his mom. He also reflected on the importance of following one's passions, as he did when pursuing a career in football despite his mother's initial disapproval. The speaker also emphasized the importance of taking risks and making the most of opportunities, as evidenced by his experience in buying and selling houses. However, the most brutal life lesson he learned was the loss of his sister, which taught him the value of cherishing every moment with loved ones. Overall, the speaker's story highlights the importance of family, passion, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Football and Personal Growth: Former footballer Graham Souness shares valuable lessons from his past experiences, emphasizing the importance of resilience and personal growth through mistakes and challenges in both football and life.
Despite facing challenges and setbacks in both his personal and professional life, former footballer Graham Souness remains passionate about football and continues to work in the industry. He shares that he's learned valuable lessons from his past experiences, particularly from a coach who once doubted his abilities, and from his marriages. Souness emphasizes that everyone makes mistakes and that these experiences, good and bad, contribute to personal growth. He also reflects on the importance of resilience, as demonstrated by his recovery from a devastating injury that threatened to end his career. Through it all, Souness remains optimistic and grateful for the opportunities he's had and the people who have supported him along the way.
Football management unpredictability: Unexpected events and powerful figures can significantly impact football management and personnel decisions, leaving managers with unforeseen challenges
In football management, unexpected events and external factors can significantly impact team performance and personnel decisions. The speaker shared an experience where he lost his best player, Dean Saunders, to Derby County despite the player having recently signed a new contract with Oxford United. The owner of Derby, Robert Maxwell, had promised the speaker that Saunders would only be on loan for a year. However, Maxwell's father intervened, and Saunders was kept at Derby permanently. The speaker was left without a striker and was eventually sacked for threatening to walk out, although he maintains he never did. The incident highlights the unpredictability of football management and the influence of powerful figures in the sport. Additionally, the speaker shared a story about Robert Maxwell's alleged involvement with Mossad and his mysterious death. The experience left the speaker disillusioned with management and led him to take a break from the field.
Perseverance and Disruption: Even in the face of adversity, perseverance and self-belief can lead to great success. Disruptions can also bring unexpected opportunities for growth and personal development.
Perseverance and self-belief can lead to great success, even in the face of adversity. Mark described a time when he was let go from his role as a footballer due to a disagreement with the board. He was unsure of his next steps until Kenny Dalglish, his manager, gave him an opportunity to prove himself again. At the same time, Mark received an offer from the BBC to appear on Match of the Day regularly. He seized this opportunity and, with hard work and dedication, became a beloved and successful presenter. Mark also discussed the concept of disruption, sharing an example of traveling long distances to speak at an event on a bank holiday Monday. Despite the inconvenience, he found joy in the experience and appreciated the opportunity to share his story. Throughout the conversation, Mark's determination and positive attitude shone through, demonstrating the power of staying focused on one's goals.