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Royal Blue: The Everton FC Podcast

Royal Blue: The Everton FC Podcast

By Reach Podcasts

Everton FC podcasts from the Liverpool ECHO, including our main Royal Blue show with Joe Thomas, Chris Beesley, Connor O'Neill, Paul Wheelock and Gavin Buckland.

Episodes

Royal Blue: Brentford 1-3 Everton Reaction as Sean Dyche’s Toffees run riot in the capital

Join the Liverpool ECHO's Joe Thomas and Paul Wheelock for the latest episode of the Royal Blue Podcast! Following Everton's 3-1 demolition of Brentford, there is plenty to react to, as the Toffee’s best display of the season helped Sean Dyche's side run riot in the capital. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
25/09/23·47m 2s

Royal Blue: Would you play DCL and Beto together?

Connor O'Neil makes it into the office only to find Joe Thomas and Chris Beesley working from home. The lads get together to pick through 777's takeover process while also looking forward to matters on the pitch with the trip to Brentford imminent. Set-pieces, retaining possession and Beto and Calvert-Lewin playing in a 4-4-2 are all items on the agenda. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22/09/23·43m 12s

ECHO Podcast special: Joe Rimmer talks to the Guardian's Football Weekly team

Joe Rimmer is joined by Max Rushden, Jonathan Wilson and Barry Glendenning from the Guardian's Football Weekly Podcast. They talk about the history of the popular podcast, how Jonathan informed Gerard Houllier that Michael Jackson had died, the podcast's popularity with vasectomy patients, how Merseyside's teams will fare in the Premier League this season and they also find time to talk about their new book. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
19/09/23·40m 14s

Royal Blue: Arsenal aftermath and 777 deep dive

Joe Thomas is back with a bumper edition of the Royal Blue Podcast. He's joined by his Liverpool ECHO colleague Paul Wheelock, regular guest Gav Buckland and Dave Powell, who is the Business of Football writer at the Liverpool ECHO. They stumble through the aftermath of Sunday's 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, look ahead to the Blues next few fixtures and delve into the 777 group, utilising Dave's unique football and business insight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
18/09/23·1h 3m

Royal Blue: 777 agree Everton deal

It's been a hectic day in the Liverpool ECHO office as the bombshell dropped at 9:30am that a deal had been reached for 777 to takeover Everton Football Club. Connor O'Neill hosts Joe Thomas, Gavin Buckland and Chris Beesley as they react to this massive news, while also squeezing in a preview of Arsenal's visit to Goodison Park. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15/09/23·39m 31s

Royal Blue: Takeover latest

Matt Jones and Joe Thomas get together in the Liverpool ECHO office to talk about rubbing shoulders with Sir Keir Starmer, rumours of an imminent takeover at Goodison Park, Amadou Onana's position in the team, Demarai Gray's fitness and the strength of Everton's squad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/09/23·44m 55s

Royal Blue: Fade to Gray

Chris Beesley catches the last sun of the summer outside Lovelock's Coffee Shop in the heart of Liverpool city centre and is joined by Joe Thomas and Gavin Buckland to go over the departure of Demarai Gray, Jarrad Branthwaite's injury and Everton's start to the Premier League season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/09/23·37m 21s

Royal Blue: Something to build on

It's a full house in the Liverpool ECHO offices as Connor O'Neill is joined by Matt Jones, Joe Thomas and Gavin Buckland to talk about Everton's 2-2 draw with Sheffield United and how the transfer window went for the Blues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/09/23·59m 45s

Royal Blue: Doncaster, deadline day and The Blades

Matt Jones and Connor O'Neill sat down in the Liverpool ECHO office to talk about the difficult but dramatic game against Doncaster, the end of the transfer window and Saturday's clash with Premier League new boys Sheffield United. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
31/08/23·40m 28s

Royal Blue: Beto signs for the Blues

Matt Jones and Connor O'Neil pick apart the bones of Everton's defeat to Wolves, look ahead to what surely will be the Blues first win of the season at Doncaster and react to the news that a new centre-forward has finally been signed as Everton announce the arrival of Beto. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
29/08/23·39m 9s

Royal Blue: Everton vs Wolves Preview, Sean Dyche Tactics Assessed & MSP Investment Talks Break Down

Host Chris Beesley joins ECHO sport colleagues Connor O'Neill, Matt Jones and regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. As well as previewing Everton's Premier League showdown with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Goodison Park, the panel discuss Mason Holgate's proposed loan move to Southampton, the breakdown of investment talks with MSP Sport Capital and Sean Dyche's selection dilemmas for this weekend's game after the horror show at Aston Villa last time out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
25/08/23·42m 57s

Royal Blue: Aston Villa 4-0 Everton Reaction | Calvert-Lewin Injury, Dyche Tactics & Che Adams Links

Host Connor O'Neill joins the ECHO Everton reporter Chris Beesley and regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast to discuss Everton's 4-0 thrashing at Aston Villa in the opening away game of the Premier League season. Dominic Calvert-Lewin's latest injury setback, Sean Dyche's tactics and the centre-back pairing of Michael Keane and James Tarkowski are all on the agenda. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21/08/23·44m 13s

Royal Blue: Forward thinking

Matt Jones is joined by Connor O'Neil in the Liverpool ECHO office in the heart of Liverpool city centre for a look ahead to Everton's visit to Villa Park. They talk about Che Adams' possible fit into the Blues team, the Wilfried Gnonto transfer saga and the magic of an away day win. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
18/08/23·39m 13s

Royal Blue: A Focus on the Positives

Chris Beesley is joined by his Liverpool ECHO colleagues Joe Thomas and Connor O'Neill in the heart of Liverpool city centre to pick apart Everton's 1-0 defeat to Fulham as well as the loan signing of Jack Harrison from Leeds. The boys try and find a positive spin to the events on the pitch on Saturday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/08/23·45m 53s

Royal Blue: Here we go

Joe Thomas is joined by Connor O'Neill and Gavin Buckland as excitement, and positivity, builds ahead of the new Premier League season. The team give their thoughts on where Everton might finish this season and how they will get on against Fulham, and it's not all doom and gloom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/08/23·38m 28s

Royal Blue: Time to beat the curse

Joe Thomas and the team return to the Liverpool ECHO office in the heart of Liverpool city centre. Joe is joined by ECHO colleague Connor O'Neill and Everton stat supremo Gav Buckland as they pick apart the Sporting Lisbon game, the importance of DCL, hoping that three more players arrive to boost the squad and ask the big important question: are Everton cursed? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
08/08/23·40m 38s

Royal Blue: Blues move on Chermiti

Joe Thomas is joined by Gav Buckland as the pair talk about the latest reports suggesting that Everton are close to signing Youssef Chermiti, the financial state of the club, the importance of statistics to analyse the modern game and a look ahead to the Blues final friendly of the pre-season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/08/23·49m 16s

Royal Blue: Cannon over Maupay?

Joe Thomas and Connor O'Neill take a break from the Liverpool ECHO office and head to Lovelocks Coffee Shop, where they dissect the 1-0 win against Stoke City, the recruitment issues, what's Tom Cannon's future and forward options in the transfer market. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
31/07/23·48m 44s

Royal Blue: Two weeks and counting

Joe Thomas is joined by his Liverpool ECHO colleague Matt Jones and regular contributor Gavin Buckland as the panel look towards the new season, only two weeks away, and ponder the question, 'are Everton ready'? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28/07/23·47m 40s

Royal Blue: Where does Danjuma fit in?

Joe Thomas is once again joined with ECHO colleagues Matt Jones and Connor O'Neill in Lovelocks Coffee Shop in the heart of Liverpool city centre to talk all things Everton FC. The gang discuss if Jared Braithwaite is ready to be a Premier League starter, what next for Micheal Keane, where does Arnaut Danjuma fit in to the Everton team and can the Blues compete for the signing of El Bilal Touré? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
25/07/23·43m 5s

Royal Blue: Working harder and smarter

Host Joe Thomas is joined at Lovelock's Coffee Shop by Liverpool ECHO colleague Chris Beesley and regular guest Gavin Buckland. The panel discuss Everton's pre-season camp, this week's 'Gaffer's Day', if Everton's aim of being the Premier League's fittest team will be enough to keep them out of a relegation dogfight and how the Blues need to be smarter in the transfer market. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
17/07/23·1h 1m

Royal Blue: Dele Alli and Lampard speak to the media. Blues reaction

Chris Beesley phones in from Everton's pre-season training camp and speaks to his ECHO colleague Joe Thomas along with regular guest Gavin Buckland. The panel talk about Dele Alli's emotional interview with Gary Neville, Frank Lampard's Diary of a CEO interview, the arrival of Ashley Young and rumours surrounding Anthony Elanga. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13/07/23·49m 20s

Royal Blue: Should Everton fans be proud of Anthony Gordon?

The team once again take a walk through a rainy Liverpool city centre to Lovelock's Coffee Shop as host Joe Thomas is joined by his Liverpool ECHO colleagues Chris Beesley and Connor O'Neill. They discuss transfer activity, if Everton fans should be proud of Anthony Gordon, the profitability of the academy and if Everton should communicate financial issues to the fans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/07/23·1h 10m

Royal Blue: Seamus, Bramley Moore and looking ahead to pre-season

Matt Jones and Chris Beesley wander through Liverpool city centre to Lovelocks Coffee Shop to chat about Seamus Coleman's longevity, when Everton might realistically move into their new stadium and the pre-season schedule for the Blues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/07/23·36m 26s

Royal Blue: Big changes on the board

Host Joe Thomas is joined by his Liverpool ECHO colleague Connor O'Neill and regular guest Gavin Buckland as they react to the big news about the long-awaited changes on the board at Goodison Park. After picking that apart, the panel talk about Tom Davies and his decision to leave for pastures new. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
23/06/23·53m 5s

Royal Blue: Could Everton afford to sell Pickford?

Host Chris Beesley joins the Echo's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. The panel discuss the wait for further announcements from the club on chairman Bill Kenwright and new board appointments; Manchester United's rumoured interest in Jordan Pickford; Alex Iwobi's comments on his future; Everton's upcoming date at the independent commission over their profit and sustainability charge plus the breaking story on Bournemouth's sacking of manager Gary O'Neil and what that could mean for the Blues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
19/06/23·44m 54s

Royal Blue: So much for a quiet summer

The Liverpool ECHO's Joe Thomas hosts this episode, joined by his colleague Chris Beesley and regular contributor Gavin Buckland. The team deliver a bumper episode with the latest news on Everton's fixtures for the forthcoming season, when the Blues might be moving to Bramley Moore, this week's shocking news from the board as well as looking back at the key moments from last season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15/06/23·1h 22m

Royal Blue: Will Tom Davies reach his potential at Everton?

Host Joe Thomas is joined by his Liverpool ECHO colleague Connor O'Neill and regular contributor Gavin Buckland as they look at Everton's retained squad list, as well as looking if it's time for Tom Davies to move on, Everton's goalkeeper situation and how this pre-season compares to recent trips to the US and Australia. It doesn't look like the ECHO's Everton reporters will be needing the factor 50 this time around. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/06/23·53m 28s

Royal Blue: Blues Survive Against Bournemouth, Conor Coady Decision & Big Summer Ahead

The latest episode of the Royal Blue podcast is here, with host Joe Thomas joined by Christopher Beesley & Gavin Buckland to review Everton's final day Premier League survival & more. The lads discuss the decision not to sign Conor Coady on a permanent deal, as well as potential plans ahead of what could prove to be a crucial summer for the Blues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
05/06/23·58m 10s

Royal Blue: It all comes down to 90 minutes

Host Joe Thomas is joined by Matt Jones, sitting in the Liverpool ECHO's city centre office, along with regular guest Gavin Buckland. Obviously they focus on the big one, Everton's make or break clash with Bournemouth at Goodison Park. What more needs to be said? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
26/05/23·47m 6s

Royal Blue: Relegation Picture Changes, MSP Sports Capital & Doucoure Contract

It's been a busy start to the week for Everton - making it the perfect time for a bonus edition of the Royal Blue podcast. In this latest episode Joe Thomas, Chris Beesley, Gavin Buckland and Dave Powell discuss how they dealt with the nerves of the Leicester City match with Newcastle United, the development that has seen MSP Sports Capital confirmed as the frontrunners to invest in the Blues, Abdoulaye Doucoure's contract extension, and the injury situation heading into Sunday's crucial match with Bournemouth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
24/05/23·38m 27s

Royal Blue: Mina leaves it late, Dyche's team selection and who can replace DCL

Host Connor O'Neill joins the ECHO's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and Everton reporter Chris Beesley - fresh from their trip to Molineux - plus regular guest Gavin Buckland to review the 1-1 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers after Yerry Mina snatched a share of the spoils with a dramatic equaliser almost nine minutes into stoppage time. The panel discuss Sean Dyche's tactics, players operating out of position, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Nathan Patterson's fitness plus the draining impact of having to follow the matches of Everton's relegation rivals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22/05/23·53m 37s

Royal Blue: Thrown to the Wolves

Host Connor O'Neill is once again joined by Joe Thomas from the Liverpool ECHO and regular contributor Gavin Buckland to look ahead to the Blues' match against Wolves. They discuss formation options, what to do if Dominic Calvert-Lewin is injured and every possible connotation of Everton's Premier League survival hopes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
19/05/23·52m 36s

Royal Blue: 36 down, two to go. Taking positives as Everton cut it fine.

Host Connor O'Neil is joined by the Liverpool ECHO's Everton reporter Joe Thomas and regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast to discuss the 3-0 to Manchester City. The panel look for the positives as the Blues head into the last two matches of the season, with eyes not only on their own team, but on the matches around them which could make a difference. They mull over possible new injury scares and how Everton might line up against Wolves should Dominic Calvert-Lewin be ruled out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15/05/23·46m 55s

Royal Blue: Brighton. Where to start?

Host Connor O'Neill joins the ECHO's Everton reporter Chris Beesley, Paul Wheelock and Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast to discuss Everton's 5-1 thrashing of Brighton & Hove Albion. The panel have their say on Sean Dyche's tactics, Dwight McNeil and Abdoulaye Doucoure's scoring exploits, Yerry Mina's return and Jordan Pickford's goalkeeping heroics while there is also a tribute to former ECHO colleague and passionate football fan Dan Kay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/05/23·49m 58s

Royal Blue: Dissecting Leicester and Seamus Coleman's place in Everton folklore

Host Connor O'Neill joins the ECHO's Everton reporter Chris Beesley and regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast as they discuss Everton's dramatic, topsy-turvy 2-2 draw with fellow strugglers Leicester City. The panel discuss Dominic Calvert-Lewin's return to the scoresheet, Seamus Coleman's injury and the Blues' continued defensive struggles with Michael Keane enduring another tough evening at the King Power Stadium plus whether Sean Dyche should be more proactive with his substitutions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/05/23·44m 55s

Royal Blue: Devastating Newcastle Loss, Defensive Struggles & Leicester Preview

Host Connor O'Neill joins his ECHO colleagues, Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and Everton reporter Chris Beesley plus regular guest Gavin Buckland to review Everton's 4-1 home defeat to Newcastle United as Sean Dyche's side failed to build on a tumultuous reception at Goodison Park. The panel also look forward to a pivotal trip to the King Power Stadium on Monday as Everton go head-to-head against relegation rivals Leicester City. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28/04/23·50m 38s

Royal Blue: Crystal Palace 0-0 Everton Review, Newcastle Preview & Bill Kenwright's statement

Host Matt Jones joins his ECHO colleagues Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and Everton reporter Chris Beesley plus regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. As well as reviewing Everton holding out for a goalless draw at Crystal Palace despite Mason Holgate's sending off, the panel discuss chairman Bill Kenwright's statement from last Friday while looking forward to Thursday night's Goodison Park showdown against Newcastle United. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
24/04/23·49m 6s

Royal Blue: Will Calvert-Lewin save Everton's season?

Host Connor O'Neill is once again joined by the Liverpool ECHO's Joe Thomas and regular guest Gav Buckland. The team reflect on last weekend's difficult game against Fulham and what is yet another must-win match coming up at Crystal Palace. The word "terrified" pops up more than once. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21/04/23·52m 13s

Royal Blue: Where do Everton go from here?

Host Connor O'Neill joins the ECHO's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and Everton reporter Chris Beesley plus regular guest Gavin Buckland to discuss the 3-1 home defeat to Fulham in the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. Former manager Marco Silva's first return to Goodison Park proved a sobering experience for the hosts as Sean Dyche's side produced a flat performance on their way to suffering a potentially hugely-damaging defeat. The panel reflect on that disappointment and discuss where Everton go now as they bid to avoid their first relegation in 72 years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
17/04/23·51m 41s

Royal Blue: Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Fulham formations, must-wins, Dele Alli and Dyche's dogfight

The latest episode of the Royal Blue podcast is here, with host Connor O’Neill joined by Joe Thomas and Gavin Buckland to look ahead to Everton’s Premier League clash with Fulham.  The panel also discusses the return of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, the formation conundrums facing Sean Dyche and the fight to avoid relegation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/04/23·48m 58s

Royal Blue: Dyche's 4-4-2, Jordan Pickford's Old Trafford heroics and coping without Abdoulaye Doucoure

Host Connor O'Neill joins the ECHO's Everton reporter Chris Beesley and regular guest Gavin Buckland to discuss Everton's 2-0 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford. The panel have their say on Sean Dyche's decision to switch from the 4-5-1 formation he's been using after Abdoulaye Doucoure's suspension, Jordan Pickford's heroics and the Blues' woes across the park, including problems in the full-back positions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/04/23·43m 44s

Royal Blue: Michael Keane, Abdoulaye Doucoure, Harry Kane's eyelash, Frank Lampard at Chelsea and looking ahead to Manchester United

Host Chris Beesley joins ECHO sport colleague Paul Wheelock and regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. The panel review Everton's dramatic 1-1 draw with Tottenham Hotspur after Michael Keane's last-minute equaliser, discussing Abdoulaye Doucoure's sending off and Harry Kane's theatrics. Frank Lampard's shock managerial return to Chelsea also comes up before a preview of the trip to Manchester United where Sean Dyche must decide who to replace Doucoure with Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/04/23·40m 31s

Royal Blue: Everton Annual Accounts Release & Tottenham Hotspur Preview

Host Chris Beesley joins ECHO colleague Connor O'Neill and regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. The panel discuss the release of Everton's annual accounts with the club posting an operating loss of £44.7million for the financial year 2021/22 while the Blues' Premier League profit and sustainability charge is also on the agenda. On the field, the return to Premier League action is eagerly anticipated as Sean Dyche's side prepare to host Tottenham Hotspur on Monday night with the Londoners now having dispensed with the services of manager Antonio Conte. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
31/03/23·38m 12s

Royal Blue: Huge Point At Stamford Bridge, Doucoure Contract Situation & International Break Timing

The latest episode of the Royal Blue podcast is here, with host Paul Wheelock joined by Joe Thomas, Gavin Buckland and Chris Beesley to review a thrilling point for Everton away to Chelsea in the Premier League. The panel also discuss Abdoulaye Doucoure's ongoing contract saga as well as the timing of the international break and how it could impact the Blues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
20/03/23·46m 14s

Royal Blue: Chelsea Preview, Relegation Rivals Grow & Dele Alli Future

The ECHO's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas hosts the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast as he joins Everton reporter Chris Beesley and their colleague Paul Wheelock plus regular guest Gavin Buckland to preview Saturday's trip to Stamford Bridge. Sean Dyche's comments on Dominic Calvert-Lewin's fitness come under consideration along with club's Dele Alli dilemma and the Blues' long winless streak at Stamford Bridge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
17/03/23·47m 13s

Royal Blue: Dwight McNeil the match-winner as Sean Dyche's Everton move out of the relegation zone

Host Connor O'Neill joins the ECHO's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and Everton reporter Chris Beesley plus regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast to reflect on Everton's crucial 1-0 win over Brentford at Goodison Park.  The victory moved Sean Dyche's side out of the relegation zone and the panel discuss Everton's display, match-winner Dwight McNeil's resurgence and where the result places the Blues in their fight for Premier League survival. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13/03/23·50m 47s

Royal Blue: Brentford preview and how to combat one of the form sides in the league.

Host Chris Beesley joins the ECHO's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas, Matt Jones and regular guest Gavin Buckland to preview Sean Dyche's side's clash at home to Brentford on Saturday. Dominic Calvert-Lewin's fitness remains a hot topic, along with the Blues boss' off-the-field friendship with his Bees counterpart while the panel also discuss the open letter to Graeme Sharp and how to combat one of the Premier League's in-form sides in the pursuit of what would be a precious three points in the fight for survival. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/03/23·50m 16s

Royal Blue: Everton show attacking intent but are ultimately frustrated in action-packed 2-2 draw at Nottingham Forest

Host Matt Jones joins the Echo's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and Everton reporter Chris Beesley plus regular guest Gavin Buckland to reflect on the action-packed 2-2 draw at Nottingham Forest. Everton netted more than once in a match for the first time since October but despite going ahead twice and being on course for a victory that would have taken them out of the relegation zone and within a point of their hosts until 13 minutes from the end, they had to settle for a share of the spoils. The panel discuss Sean Dyche's tactics, whether the result was a point gained or two lost and the players having the stomach for the fight needed to stay up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
06/03/23·46m 43s

Royal Blue: Nottingham Forest clash, Sean Dyche's tactical tweaks and is it time for Idrissa Gueye to make way

Host Chris Beesley joins the ECHO's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas, Connor O'Neill and regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast as the panel discuss the 4-0 defeat at Arsenal and preview Sunday's trip to Nottingham Forest. Idrissa Gueye's mistake at the Emirates Stadium is on the agenda and whether the veteran midfielder should make way at the City Ground, especially if Sean Dyche is going to change his tactics for what was always going to be a crucial fixture in terms of Everton's hopes of Premier League survival. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/03/23·46m 34s

Royal Blue: Aston Villa defeat reaction, Everton goalscoring concern and Arsenal preview

The Echo's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and Everton reporter Chris Beesley join host Connor O'Neill for the latest edition of the Royal Blue Podcast as the panel look back on the 2-0 home defeat to Aston Villa and forthcoming midweek trip to Premier League leaders Arsenal. The loss, combined with results elsewhere, saw Sean Dyche's side drop back into the relegation zone but despite the setback there were still plenty of encouraging signs, even though fans remain justifiably concerned over where Everton's goals are going to come from as the side prepare to go to the Emirates Stadium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28/02/23·50m 59s

Royal Blue: Pickford Signs New Contract, Sean Dyche Start & Aston Villa Preview

Host Chris Beesley joins the Echo's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. The panel discuss the breaking news of Jordan Pickford's new contract, Sean Dyche's start at Everton and Saturday's home fixture against Aston Villa as the Blues hope to continue their revival having climbed out of the relegation zone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
24/02/23·46m 45s

Royal Blue: Massive Win Over Leeds, Seamus Coleman & Scoreline Nerves

The Echo's Everton reporter Chris Beesley and regular guest Gavin Buckland join host Connor O'Neill for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast as they reflect on the 1-0 win over Leeds United.  Everton moved out of the Premier League relegation zone with the victory and the panel discuss Seamus Coleman's wonder-goal, the captain's long career with the Blues, how the team are looking under Sean Dyche and whether scorelines from other matches should be put up on the Goodison Park scoreboard during such nerve-jangling matches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
20/02/23·48m 29s

Royal Blue: Merseyside Derby Reflections, Calvert-Lewin Availability & Leeds Preview

The latest episode of the Royal Blue podcast is here, with host Joe Thomas joined by Matt Jones to discuss their thoughts on Monday night's Merseyside derby loss at Anfield for Everton, as well as the availability of Dominic Calvert-Lewin for the rest of the season. The lads also preview a huge game coming up at Goodison Park for the Blues, as Leeds United visit with interim boss Michael Skubala taking charge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
17/02/23·55m 57s

Royal Blue: Sean Dyche's Everton suffer defeat in Merseyside Derby at Anfield

The Echo’s Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and Everton reporter Chris Beesley join host Connor O’Neill to discuss the Blues’ 2-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield in Sean Dyche’s first away game. The panel offer their thoughts on yet another lacklustre display across Stanley Park that enabled what had been an out of form Reds side to return to winning ways while attempting to explain the goals that Everton conceded and the team’s striker woes with rookie Ellis Simms coming in for the injured Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/02/23·49m 31s

Royal Blue: Dominic Calvert-Lewin Fitness, Amadou Onana Form & Merseyside Derby Preview

Host Chris Beesley joins the Echo's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast as the panel preview Monday's Merseyside Derby. Manager Sean Dyche admits centre-forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin is a serious fitness doubt for the trip across Stanley Park and Everton's options up front if their number nine is absent proves to be a hot topic along with Amadou Onana and the midfield battle with the Belgian international going into the big game on the back of arguably his best display for the club to date. The question over whether this really is the best time to face Liverpool also comes up for debate with thoughts of how the Blues can end their hoodoo in front of fans at Anfield. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/02/23·44m 20s

Royal Blue: Everton Win First Premier League Game Since October Against League Leaders Arsenal

The latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast is here with host Joe Thomas joined by Gavin Buckland, Joe Thomas and Conor O'Neill to review a hugely important victory for Everton over Arsenal at Goodison Park. The lads discuss the performance that Sean Dyche was able to get out of his players after just a week on the job, in comparison with some of the performances turned in by the Blues since the return of the Premier League. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
06/02/23·43m 42s

Royal Blue: How Everton May Line Up With Sean Dyche In Charge & Arsenal Preview

Host Chris Beesley joins ECHO sport colleague Matt Jones and regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. The panel discuss manager Sean Dyche's response to Everton's absence of signings in the January transfer window, how the Blues might line up under their new boss, the challenge of facing Premier League leaders Arsenal in his first game in charge plus the prospect of more fan protests at Goodison Park this weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/02/23·41m 39s

Royal Blue: Reaction following a disastrous transfer deadline day for Everton | Sean Dyche Appointment assessed

Join Joe Thomas, Connor O'Neill, Paul Wheelock and Gav Buckland for the latest Royal Blue Podcast! The panel evaluates all the fallout from a disastrous transfer deadline day, which resulted in the Blues failing to bring in a player.  The lads also discuss Kevin Thelwell’s role and where the club and Sean Dyche go from here as they face a huge second-half of the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/02/23·54m 22s

Royal Blue: Everton Appoint Sean Dyche, Anthony Gordon Leaves & Transfer Deadline Approaches

The latest episode of the Royal Blue podcast is here, with host Conor O'Neill joined by Joe Thomas & Gavin Buckland to discuss the latest goings on at Goodison Park. The panel evaluate the appointment of Sean Dyche as new Everton manager, as well as reviewing the departure of Anthony Gordon to Newcastle United. The lads also discuss their hopes for the rest of the January transfer window, including rumours of an approach for Conor Gallagher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30/01/23·48m 50s

Royal Blue: Sean Dyche Suitability, Farhad Moshiri Speaks Again & Anthony Gordon Situation

Host Chris Beesley joins the Echo's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas, Matt Jones and Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast with Sean Dyche closing in on the managerial vacancy at Goodison Park. Four days after Frank Lampard was sacked, Everton are expected to confirm Dyche's appointment within the next 24 hours and the panel discuss the choice of the former Burnley boss, Marcelo Bielsa, Farhad Moshiri's interview and the latest on Anthony Gordon with the winger closing in on a move to Newcastle United. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
27/01/23·43m 49s

Royal Blue: Frank Lampard sacked as Everton Manager

A special edition of the Royal Blue podcast as the ECHO’s Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and Everton reporter Chris Beesley join host Connor O’Neill to discuss Frank Lampard’s sacking as Blues boss. The former Derby County and Chelsea manager was dismissed following a 2-0 defeat to West Ham United, Everton’s eighth loss in nine matches with only goal difference keeping the team off the bottom of the Premier League. The panel give their thoughts on where it went wrong for Lampard and who Farhad Moshiri should turn to now as he looks for an eighth incumbent in the Goodison Park dugout since taking control of the club in 2016 and someone to try and steer Everton clear from the threat of a first relegation in 72 years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
23/01/23·42m 52s

Royal Blue: Everton allegations explored, Arnaut Danjuma interest and huge West Ham clash

Everton correspondent Joe Thomas discusses how the events of Saturday unfolded off the pitch and how the ECHO sought answers before joining host Chris Beesley, plus guests Gavin Buckland and Paul Wheelock to talk about the huge match at West Ham and transfer interest in Arnaut Danjuma. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
20/01/23·52m 25s

Royal Blue: Everton season reaches new low after Southampton loss, Frank Lampard's future & potential January transfer targets?

Host Chris Beesley joins Paul Wheelock, Matt Jones and Gavin Buckland to discuss Everton's 2-1 home defeat to bottom club Southampton. The Blues' season reached a new low at the weekend as they surrendered a lead against the Saints in what proved to be their fourth consecutive home loss for the first time since 1958.  The panel discuss Everton's players, whether Frank Lampard should retain his job as manager given the results, the pre-match coach welcome and post-match protests against the club's owner and board plus potential transfer targets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
16/01/23·50m 37s

Royal Blue: Farhad Moshiri interview, Southampton preview & Goodison Park welcome and protests planned

Host Chris Beesley joins Gavin Buckland and Matt Jones for the latest Royal Blue podcast as the trio look back on a tumultuous week at Goodison Park and preview Everton's crucial Premier League fixture against Southampton. After dropping into the relegation zone following just one win in their last 10 Premier League games, Frank Lampard's side desperately need a result against the division's basement outfit but despite losing six matches on the spin in the competition, the Saints head to Merseyside on the back of a couple of morale-boosting cup victories. The game is also being played against the backdrop of significant supporter unrest with owner Farhad Moshiri conducting a controversial interview with Jim White on Thursday and while fans have organised a coach welcome for the Everton players before kick-off, protests against the board have been planned for after the final whistle, all of which gives our panel plenty to discuss.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13/01/23·44m 59s

Royal Blue: FA Cup Third Round Defeat & Farhad Moshiri Ownership

The latest episode of the Royal Blue podcast is here, with host Chris Beesley joined by Joe Thomas, Gavin Buckland and Paul Wheelock to discuss all the latest Everton FC news. The panel discusses the state of the club as a whole, including the future of Farhad Moshiri's ownership and the relegation battle which the team finds itself in despite the progress being made on a brand new stadium. The lads also recap Everton's FA Cup third round loss against Manchester United, and the difference in performances between this game and the Brighton loss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/01/23·47m 50s

Royal Blue: Demoralising Brighton Loss, Angry Scenes At Goodison & Frank Lampard Future

The latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast is here, with host Connor O'Neill joined by Gavin Buckland, Chris Beesley & Matt Jones to recap an awful display from Everton in their 4-1 loss to Brighton at Goodison Park. The panel discuss the angry scenes after the full time whistle, as well as manager Frank Lampard's future in the dugout for the Blues and how he and the board may look to solve the ongoing issues in the squad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/01/23·55m 33s

Royal Blue: Wolverhampton Wanderers Preview, Calvert-Lewin Fitness & Contract Talks

Host Chris Beesley is joined by the ECHO's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas, Connor O'Neill and regular guest Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. The panel preview the Premier League return to action for Everton at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers with Dominic Calvert-Lewin's latest fitness issues, the form of Neal Maupay, Conor Coady's absence and contract talks for Jordan Pickford, Anthony Gordon and Alex Iwobi all on the agenda ahead of what might be the last ever Boxing Day game at Goodison Park. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
23/12/22·47m 37s

Royal Blue: World Cup Break Ends, January Window Requirements & Wolves Preview

Host Connor O'Neill is joined by Chris Beesley, Joe Thomas & Gavin Buckland to discuss all the latest Everton FC news, as well as the end of the World Cup break as Lionel Messi's Argentina emerged victorious. The lads also discuss what the Blues need in the January transfer window, as well as previewing a crucial upcoming Premier League clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
19/12/22·50m 35s

Royal Blue: Mid-season Tour To Australia & FA Cup Draw Against Manchester United

Join Connor O’Neill and Joe Thomas in the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast in which they discuss Everton’s trip to Australia. Has the World Cup break come at a good time for the Blues, has the Sydney Super Cup left the club in a better place and what is really going through Frank Lampard’s mind? All this and more as Joe offers insight behind the scenes from the trip and what he learned as the only dedicated Everton reporter to leave the UK and follow the club Down Under. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30/11/22·49m 57s

Royal Blue SPECIAL: 25th Anniversary of Neville Southall's Final Everton Game

Chris Beesley joins Gavin Buckland and David Prentice for a special edition of the Royal Blue podcast to mark the 25th anniversary of Everton legend Neville Southall's final game for the club. Not only did the Wales international make a record-breaking 751 appearances for Everton in a 16-year spell at Goodison Park, he won more trophies with the Blues than any other player and was widely-regarding as being the best goalkeeper in the world at the peak of his powers. The panel reflect on what made Southall the number one in his profession and such an iconic player in the eyes of those who watched him, whether they were Evertonians, rival fans, team-mates, managers or opponents on the pitch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
25/11/22·58m 52s

Royal Blue: Disappointment On The South Coast, Midfield Balance & Room For Recruitment

The latest episode of Royal Blue is here, with host Connor O'Neill joined by Joe Thomas, Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland to discuss a disappointing Blues display away from home in a 3-0 loss to Bournemouth in Everton's final fixture before the Premier League breaks for the World Cup. The lads also analyse where Everton can improve, including the midfield balance issues and potential for attacking improvements both within the current squad and the transfer market. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/11/22·55m 31s

Royal Blue: Everton return to Bournemouth for revenge, Blues at the World Cup & a Toffee trip down under

Join Joe Thomas, Chris Beesley, Connor O'Neill and Gav Buckland for the latest Royal Blue Podcast! The quartet discuss Everton's League Cup thrashing on the South Coast at Bournemouth, whom they will face once again this weekend in the last Premier League match before the World Cup. There's plenty of Everton interest in Qatar with several players selected to represent their countries, whilst the remaining squad members journey to Australia for a 'second pre-season' tour down under, with matches against Celtic and the Western Sydney Wanderers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/11/22·1h 4m

Royal Blue: All Eyes on Bournemouth in the Carabao Cup Following Leicester Defeat at Goodison Park

The latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast sees host Chris Beesley joined by the ECHO's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and regular guest Gavin Buckland to discuss the aftermath of the 2-0 home defeat to Leicester City on Saturday and preview Tuesday night's trip to Bournemouth in the Carabao Cup. Frank Lampard's side were hoping to put on a good show for their own fans in their final Goodison Park fixture before the World Cup break but their defeat not only enabled Brendan Rodgers' side to leapfrog them in the table but tighten up almost the entire bottom half of the Premier League. As well as questions over Everton's tactics and formation, there are also injury concerns of Dominic Calvert-Lewin - again; Idrissa Gueye and Amadou Onana on the agenda for our panel to debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/11/22·49m 5s

Royal Blue: Everton v Leicester Preview, Amadou Onana continues to impress & Sam Allardyce takes aim at Toffees

Join Joe Thomas, Chris Beesley and Gav Buckland for the latest episode of the Royal Blue Podcast! On the agenda this week, a preview of Everton's Saturday night under the lights Premier League clash with Leicester City, chat about the mightily impressive Amadou Onana both on and off the pitch, plus yet another former Blues boss taking aim at the club via their own podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/11/22·50m 50s

Royal Blue: Everton once again let down by VAR as Jordan Pickford shines in clean sheet display

The latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast sees Joe Thomas and Matt Jones join host Connor O'Neill to look back on Everton’s draw with Fulham.  The panel discusses the goalless encounter at Craven Cottage and the shambolic use of VAR following Aleksandar Mitrovic’s tackle on Idrissa Gueye.  The trio also reflect on Jordan Pickford’s heroics, the performances of James Tarkowski and Vitalii Mykolenko as well as reviewing Rafa Benitez’s latest comments about the club. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
31/10/22·51m 8s

Royal Blue: Could Frank Lampard have wished for anything more from emphatic win over Crystal Palace

Join Joe Thomas, Connor O'Neill and Gavin Buckland as they discuss Everton's emphatic win over Crystal Palace. Goals from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Anthony Gordon and Dwight McNeil secured a valuable three points for the Blues as Frank Lampard's side provided the perfect response to three consecutive defeats and questions over creativity. The impressive Alex Iwobi, dominant Calvert-Lewin and the marauding Vitalii Mykolenko all pop up in conversation as the team ask: Could Lampard have wished for anything more? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
24/10/22·54m 53s

Royal Blue: Newcastle Reflection, Crystal Palace Preview And The Return Of Nathan Patterson

Join Joe Thomas and Chris Beesley for the latest Royal Blue Podcast, where the duo discuss the latest Everton FC News! On this week's edition, the lads react to the Blues' midweek defeat in Newcastle, preview this weekend's clash with Crystal Palace, and discuss the return from injury of young star Nathan Patterson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21/10/22·48m 34s

Royal Blue: Tottenham Defeat & Controversy Review, Newcastle Preview and the return of Dominic Calvert-Lewin

Chris Beesley, Paul Wheelock and Gavin Buckland are joined by host Connor O'Neill on the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast as they review Everton's 2-0 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur while also looking forward to Wednesday night's trip to Newcastle United. Frank Lampard's side held out against high-flying Spurs for almost an hour at the weekend, wasting a couple of big opportunities to score before eventually conceding through a controversial penalty from Harry Kane. The panel are asked about their thoughts on that incident, Lampard's tactics, Dominic Calvert-Lewin's fitness and whether the Blues should ring the changes when they go to the North East while Gav lifts the lid on a vintage display from Howard Kendall's side at St James' Park that turned out to be one of the greatest Everton performances he never saw! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
17/10/22·50m 19s

Royal Blue: Tottenham Preview, Anthony Gordon & Team Selection

The latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast sees Joe Thomas, Chris Beesley and host Connor O'Neill preview Everton's trip to Tottenham Hotspur. The panel discuss Anthony Gordon's absence through suspension and what the Blues' home grown hero needs to do to kick on this season, Yerry Mina's latest injury setback and Frank Lampard's selection posers ahead of a fixture that his side lost 5-0 last season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/10/22·52m 9s

Royal Blue: Manchester United Loss & Dominic Calvert-Lewin Return

Host Connor O'Neill joins ECHO Everton reporter Chris Beesley and Paul Wheelock for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. The panel discuss Everton's 2-1 home defeat to Manchester United as Frank Lampard's side were beaten for the first time in seven Premier League matches despite going ahead through Alex Iwobi after just five minutes. Disappointing displays from the likes of Idrissa Gueye and Anthony Gordon are discussed, as is the return of fit-again striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin who took to the field for the first time this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/10/22·41m 9s

Royal Blue: Manchester United Preview, Selection Dilemmas & Takeover Rumours

Joe Thomas and Chris Beesley join host Connor O'Neill for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. As well as previewing Everton's Sunday night showdown at home to Manchester United, the panel discuss Frank Lampard's selection dilemmas, the increasing number of non-traditional kick-off times for televised games and Farhad Moshiri's position amid the latest takeover talk at the club with interest from a new US-based group. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/10/22·49m 23s

Royal Blue Special: Peter & Joe McGrail on The Toffees, Boxing & Upcoming Fights

On today’s Royal Blue Podcast we have special guests, boxers and brothers Peter McGrail & Joe McGrail joining host Joe Thomas & Connor O’Neill to get stuck into everything Everton. The last time the lads joined us was near the end of last season so the chat starts off discussing everything that has happened in between before discussing their hopes for the current season. Before the finish, the brothers detail Peter and Joe then discuss their blossoming professional careers and upcoming fights in front of a home crowd at Probellum Liverpool II, at the Olympia, on Saturday, October 15. The night is sold out but you can still watch the action unfold live, via Probellum.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
05/10/22·43m 29s

Royal Blue: Southampton Victory, Back To Back Wins & Seamus Coleman's Role

Welcome back to the Royal Blue podcast, where this week host Conor O'Neill is joined by Chris Beesley, Joe Thomas and Gavin Buckland. The lads discuss the Blues' victory over Southampton at the weekend as well as the wider implications of the Toffees securing back to back Premier League wins.Also on the agenda is Seamus Coleman entering the twilight of his career and Salomon Rondon's potential Saudi exit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/10/22·53m 13s

Royal Blue: Kaminski Takeover Latest, Southampton Preview & Potential Return of Jordan Pickford

With the Premier League returning, Host Chris Beesley is joined by Adam Jones, Gav Buckland & Paul Wheelock to preview the action to come. The lads start off with a quick word on the Everton Women’s team who have won their last two games before getting into the potential sale of the club to US businessman Maciek Kaminski.The agenda then shifts to Everton’s trip down to the south coast to face Southampton this weekend with reference to the potential return of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, the midfield & the underappreciated Jordan Pickford. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30/09/22·47m 49s

Royal Blue: Derby Delight For Everton Women, Allan's UAE Departure & The Return Of Seamus Coleman?

Join ECHO Everton FC reporters Joe Thomas, Adam Jones and Chris Beesley as they discuss the latest from Goodison Park and Finch Farm - and Anfield after Megan Finnigan, Jess Park and Hanna Bennison secured a famous Merseyside derby win for the Blues in the Women's Super League.Allan's move to the UAE, Nathan Patterson's injury and the strategic thinking that appears to have underpinned the actions of Frank Lampard and Kevin Thelwell since their arrivals at the club are also among the topics covered in this latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
26/09/22·53m 35s

Royal Blue: Everton's West Ham win, Neal Maupay's influence and Frank Lampard's message

The Royal Blue Podcast is back to discuss Everton's first Premier League victory of the season, courtesy of Neal Maupay's first goal for his new club in a 1-0 win over West Ham at Goodison Park.Adam Jones is joined by Chris Beesley and Connor O'Neil to discuss the impact that the new striker has already made, and how he links well with the ever-impressive Alex Iwobi in midfield.The panel also discuss the solid leadership at the back for Everton, with Asmir Begovic slotting straight into the side, and the message that fans and Frank Lampard shared at the end of the game in jubilant scenes from the stands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
20/09/22·45m 46s

Royal Blue: David Moyes’ Return, Anthony Gordon Contract ‘Talks’ & Frank Lampard’s Everton Squad Build

After the enforced two week break, the Royal Blue Podcast is here to take a look at all the current ongoing events in the Everton world. Chris Beesley is joined by Joe Thomas & Gav Buckland to preview the upcoming clash against West Ham and the need for the Blues to start picking up points.The trio then discuss Anthony Gordon’s future as it has emerged that Everton are involved in talks for a new contract for the 21-year-old before discussing just what kind of squad Frank Lampard is building at Everton as the new transfers settle into life on Merseyside. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
16/09/22·43m 21s

Royal Blue: Arsenal v Everton Postponed, Fixture Backlog & Captaincy Issues

A very different Royal Blue podcast than we were expecting this week after Everton's trip to Arsenal was postponed along with all this weekend's other Premier League matches following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Host Chris Beesley is joined by Joe Thomas, Adam Jones and Gavin Buckland as the panel discuss the implications of the cancellations and potential fixture backlog, Jordan Pickford's injury, the captaincy issue and whether Frank Lampard still needs to delve into the free agent transfer market to recruit goalkeeping cover. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/09/22·40m 8s

Royal Blue: Merseyside Derby Draw, Maupay Debut & Wait For Win

In the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast, host Chris Beesley joins Joe Thomas, Adam Jones and Gavin Buckland to discuss the fallout from Everton's goalless but action-packed draw with Liverpool at Goodison Park on Saturday.Hot topics of conversation include Conor Coady's disallowed goal plus whether Virgil van Dijk should have been given his marching orders for a tackle on Amadou Onana.The panel also give their verdict on Neal Maupay's Blues debut and the progress being made by Frank Lampard's side despite the ongoing wait for a first Premier League victory of the campaign. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
05/09/22·45m 38s

Royal Blue: Drama on Deadline Day as Gueye & Garner Join Blues | Merseyside Derby Preview

Liverpool ECHO Everton FC Correspondent Joe Thomas is joined by Gav Buckland for the latest Royal Blue Podcast!It was a busy deadline day for Frank Lampard, with Idrissa Gana Gueye re-joining the club from Paris Saint-Germain, whilst the Blues also scooped James Garner from Manchester United.Plus of course, there's plenty of preview ahead of Saturday's Merseyside Derby against Liverpool at Goodison Park.Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
02/09/22·42m 38s

Royal Blue: Everton Striker Search, Anthony Gordon Latest and Brentford Preview

Join Adam Jones, Chris Beesley and Joe Thomas for the latest episode of the Royal Blue Podcast!On the agenda this week is Frank Lampard's seemingly never-ending search for a new target man, whilst Anthony Gordon's transfer saga looks set to continue right up to the transfer deadline.The lads also preview this weekend's clash with Brentford, as the Blues chase their first win of the season.Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
26/08/22·45m 7s

Royal Blue: Anthony Gordon, Everton's desperate transfer need and draw with Nottingham Forest assessed

Adam Jones is joined by Chris Beesley and Paul Wheelock to look back on Everton picking up their first Premier League point of the season. Rumours still swirl around the future of Anthony Gordon and the panel discuss his performance at the weekend, plus look at the desperate need that the Blues have to secure transfers up front despite Frank Lampard playing that down last week. And, there's a League Cup match to look towards too as Everton are set to take on Fleetwood Town. How many changes will the manager be tempted to make, and will he switch his system? Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22/08/22·37m 37s

Royal Blue: Anthony Gordon & Dele Alli Futures, Stadium Progress & Nottingham Forest Preview

In the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast, host Chris Beesley joins the ECHO's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas plus regular guest Gavin Buckland to preview the Blues' home game against newly-promoted Nottingham Forest who are back in the Premier League for the first time since 1999.The panel discuss the futures of Anthony Gordon and Dele Alli who have been subject to interest from Chelsea and Besiktas respectively plus Everton's ongoing search for a new striker.This week's visit from architect Dan Meis to the check on the Everton stadium construction progress at Bramley-Moore Dock is also on the agenda plus the dilemmas over facing opponents who have brought in no fewer than 16 new signings this summer and whether the Blues' biggest purchase of the window, Amadou Onana should be handed a first start. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
19/08/22·37m 45s

Royal Blue: Chelsea In For Anthony Gordon, Aston Villa Reaction & A Lively Debut For Amadou Onana

Host Chris Beesley joins regular guest Gavin Buckland and the ECHO's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas to discuss last Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa and Chelsea's interest in Anthony Gordon. Frank Lampard's side - again starting without a recognised striker - produced an encouraging display in the Midlands but fell to a second Premier League loss in as many games while their injury woes continued with Abdoulaye Doucoure's first half exit.There was a lively cameo off the bench from debutant Amadou Onana while Conor Coady also made his Everton bow. The panel also give their thoughts on Gordon's future with potential offers from Stamford Bridge reported to be in the pipeline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15/08/22·45m 36s

Royal Blue: Busy Week For Blues, Bramley-Moore Dock Progress & Aston Villa Preview

The latest Royal Blue podcast sees Joe Thomas, Gavin Buckland, Paul Wheelock and host Chris Beesley look back on a busy week for Everton as the Blues prepare for Saturday's early kick-off at Aston Villa.Ahead of his fist managerial clash against former midfield rival Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard has added Conor Coady and Amadou Onana to his squad although he and director of football Kevin Thelwell remain in the hunt for a defensive midfielder and a striker with former player Idrissa Gueye's proposed return to Goodison Park having still yet to materialise.The panel discuss all of those issues along with the progress being made at Bramley-Moore Dock as the club reached the first anniversary of construction on the new Everton Stadium while looking forward to the weekend game in the West Midlands Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/08/22·45m 46s

Press Conference: Frank Lampard Speaks Ahead Of Trip To Face Aston Villa

Everton Manager Frank Lampard spoke to the press ahead of his side's Premier League away fixture against Aston Villa on SaturdayLampard particularly references the incomings at Everton during the transfer window as well as the injuries suffered already this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/08/22·10m 11s

Royal Blue: Plenty of Positives from Chelsea Opener, Potential Incomings & Calvert-Lewin Injury

Following Everton’s 1-0 loss in their Premier League opener against Chelsea, the Royal Blue podcast is here to discuss the positives both on and off the field surrounding the fixture in how the Blues can build on this going forward Connor O’Neill is joined by Adam Jones, Joe Thomas & Gav Buckland.Before the finish, the lads discuss any potential incomings to the club as well as the injury to Dominic Calvert-Lewin and how this will impact Everton throughout the next couple months as they look to add goals for the side and strengthen up top. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
08/08/22·53m 38s

Royal Blue: Frank Lampard Out To Prove A Point On Opening Night As The Blues Look To Conjure The Spirit Of Goodison Park

Joe Thomas is joined by Connor O’Neill and special guest, the BBC’s Football Correspondent, John Murray to look ahead to the start of Everton's season. The Blues kick-off their Premier League campaign at home to Chelsea tomorrow, and the lads take an in-depth look at the game, and Everton’s return to Goodison Park following that famous win against Crystal Palace last season. The panel also discuss the club’s recent transfer business and the task facing Frank Lampard and his side this season, as well as making their predictions for tomorrow's game.Listen to Everton v Chelsea on BBC Sounds here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/live:bbc_radio_five_live Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
05/08/22·40m 58s

Press Conference: Frank Lampard speaks ahead of Everton Premier League opener against Chelsea

Everton Manager Frank Lampard spoke to the press ahead of his side's Premier League opening fixture against Chelsea on Saturday.Lampard particularly references the clash against his former club, Richarlison's departure and the injury to Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/08/22·24m 29s

Royal Blue: Dynamo Kyiv win, Everton's transfer needs and midfield system questions

Adam Jones is joined by Joe Thomas and Gavin Buckland to look back over Everton's final pre-season match of the summer.The Blues secured a 3-0 win over Dynamo Kyiv on Friday with new signing Dwight McNeil coming off the bench to score twice. Frank Lampard's side have been linked with more moves before the window closes, but will any be over the line before the first day of the season?The panel discuss links to Idrissa Gueye, the likely system Everton will play with the current squad and talk over the club's warning to supporters encroaching onto the field of play. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/08/22·46m 11s

Royal Blue: Blues Enjoy Trip To Seaside As Pre-Season Continues While Transfer Uncertainty Continues

This week's Royal Blue podcast welcomes Connor O'Neill, Gavin Buckland and Joe Thomas as they discuss another busy week for Everton. Hot topics include the fall out from the defeat to Minnesota United, the transfer window so far and, of course, the highlights of the win against Blackpool. Also up for debate is where Everton go between now and the start of the season as they look to strengthen the squad in a bid to avoid the trouble they endured in the last campaign. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
25/07/22·41m 29s

Royal Blue: Blues Move Onto Minnesota As Frank Lampard Gives Youth A Chance, James Tarkowski First Impressions & Cornet Transfer Latest

The latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast follows Everton on to the second leg of their US tour as host Chris Beesley as Joe Thomas - the only journalist covering the team for the entirety of their trip - and Adam Jones about all the latest issues at Goodison Park. Playing their first friendly in manager Frank Lampard's first pre-season in charge, Everton lost 2-0 to fellow Premier League side Arsenal at the Baltimore Ravens' M&T Bank Stadium in the early hours of Sunday morning and have now moved on to Minneapolis ahead of Wednesday night's fixture against Adrian Heath's Minnesota United of Major League Soccer. The panel discuss their thoughts on the weekend's game, how pre-season is shaping up and current transfer speculation with Burnley's Maxwel Cornet being linked with a potential move. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
18/07/22·43m 15s

Royal Blue: Everton in the States, Anthony Gordon's role & Moshiri open letter

We bring you a special Transatlantic edition of the Royal Blue podcast with Adam Jones, Gavin Buckland and host Chris Beesley back on Merseyside while Everton correspondent Joe Thomas is out with the team in the USA.Joe – the only external reporter covering the team for the duration of their tour – has been keeping a watchful eye on Frank Lampard’s squad as they prepare in Washington DC for their first pre-season friendly against fellow Premier League side Arsenal in Baltimore on Saturday night.The panel discuss Everton’s Stateside trip so far, the latest on transfers, including the latest on Morgan Gibbs-White plus owner Farhad Moshiri’s second open letter to the fans this summer, insisting that the club is not for sale despite recent takeover talks and subsequent response from supporter group, The 27 Campaign. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15/07/22·52m 17s

Royal Blue: Anthony Gordon future, Armando Broja discussed, takeover latest and Everton's Australia tour

Host Adam Jones is joined by Chris Beesley, Joe Thomas and Gavin Buckland as the Everton news barrels on through the summer.The panel go deep into the Blues transfer plans with talk of Anthony Gordon's future high on the agenda, as well as potential incoming moves that should be sought along the way.There's also the latest updates on Everton's potential takeover after the US consortium strongly linked with a bid released a statement earlier in the week. But, has that muddied the waters for fans even further?And the lads also talk over Everton's tour of Australia to come in November as they look to maximise their profile in the country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
08/07/22·1h 2m

Royal Blue: Richarlison's Exit, Takeover Speculation & James Tarkowski's Arrival

We always say it, but it is never a dull day with Everton Football Club, and it feels like this is going to be a big summer for the club, on and off the pitch.Connor O’Neill is joined by Dave Powell, Joe Thomas and Adam Jones to chew the fat over Richarlison’s exit to Spurs, the current takeover speculation and the arrival of James Tarkowski. The lads also talk about Everton’s return to pre-season training and the pressure Frank Lampard and Kevin Thelwell find themselves under in the transfer market. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/07/22·1h 5m

Royal Blue: Everton End Of Season Review | Highs, Lows & Indifferent

It’s never a dull day with Everton Football Club and it feels like this is going to be a big summer for the club, on and off the pitch. Connor O’Neill is joined by Chris Beesley, Gav Buckland and Adam Jones to take a delayed look back on last season and assess whether the Blues have enough at their disposal to avoid another relegation fight. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
27/06/22·53m 34s

Royal Blue: The Recurring Theme as Richarlison Everton talk continues

It’s never a dull day with Everton Football Club and it’s starting to look like there’s going to be a few changes both on and off the pitch this summer.Connor O’Neill is joined by Chris Beesley, Gav Buckland and Paul Wheelock to get stuck into all the news and give their opinions on the latest transfer talk surrounding Richarlison and Everton’s Premier League fixture list and the decisions made by the governing body. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21/06/22·52m 41s

Royal Blue: Is Moshiri heading for the exit as Lampard shapes his side for the new campaign?

It’s never a dull day with Everton Football Club and it’s starting to look like there’s going to be a few changes within the ranks of the club and not just at player level! It has been reported that Farhad Moshiri has had ‘positive talks’ in terms of the club changing hands as well as the incomings and outgoings of players.Connor O’Neill is joined by Adam Jones, Chris Beesley & Gav Buckland to get stuck into all the news and give their opinions on what could be an eventful start to the transfer window for the Toffees, enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/06/22·51m 25s

Royal Blue: Moshiri's Message To Fans, New Sponsor & Transfer Talk

The Royal Blue podcast is here with host Connor O'Neill joined by Adam Jones and Chris Beesley to discuss the latest Everton news.The trio begin by discussing Farhad Moshiri's message to Evertonians as well as the general running of the club at present, before moving on to cover the controversy surrounding the new gambling shirt sponsor.The lads also talk about links to Burnley's James Tarkowski and Spurs' Harry Winks and what each could bring to the squad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/06/22·56m 26s

Royal Blue: Richarlison, Everton Transfer News & James Tarkowski

Join Connor O'Neill, Adam Jones, and Joe Thomas for the latest episode of the Royal Blue podcast as we look ahead to the summer transfer window and the potential moves which Everton could make.The trio discuss Richarlison's recent comments on transfer speculation as well as discussing James Tarkowski as a defensive option for the Blues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/06/22·39m 0s

Royal Blue: Everton Season Review | Final Day, Fight For Survial & Summer Plans

Join Connor O'Neill, Adam Jones, Joe Thomas and Gav Buckland for the latest episode of the Royal Blue podcast as we look back on Everton's 5-1 defeat at the hands of Arsenal on Sunday afternoon. The panel discussed the game at the Emirates, Frank Lampard’s team selection, formations and set-pieces as the Blues brought the curtain down on their Premier League season with a disappointing defeat. The quartet also reflect on Cenk Tosun’s confirmed departure from the club, look ahead to the upcoming transfer window and what Farhad Moshiri must do following the conclusion of a disappointing season. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
23/05/22·1h 4m

Behind-the-scenes at Goodison Park as Everton complete dramatic Crystal Palace comeback

Connor O'Neill is joined by Joe Thomas, Adam Jones and Gav Buckland to try and reflect on one of Goodison Park's most memorable comebacks.Everton secured their Premier League status with a 3-2 win over Crystal Palace thanks to second half strikes from Michael Keane, Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.Our panel give their thoughts on the huge out-pouring of emotion on the pitch, the behind-the-scenes view from the press box and the media room following the game - and maybe share some little bits of analysis on the actual football as well.Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
20/05/22·1h 9m

Royal Blue: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly As Refereeing Controversy Condemns Blues To Defeat

Join Connor O'Neill, Joe Thomas and Gav Buckland as we look back on Everton's painful 3-2 home defeat to Brentford, as the Blues relegation threat in the Premier League is prolonged. The panel discuss the inspiring scenes outside Goodison Park ahead of kick-off before getting into the on-pitch matters, VAR controversy and frustrations for Frank Lampard and his side. Ahead of Thursday night's visit of Crystal Palace to Goodison, the guys also debate how is best for the Blues to go about their task and where the game could potentially be won and the chances of Everton ensuring their Premier League survival for next season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
16/05/22·58m 2s

Royal Blue: Watford Review, USA Trip and Brentford Preview

Host Chris Beesley joins the ECHO's Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and regular guest Gavin Buckland on the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. The panel discuss Everton's goalless draw at Watford and where that leaves Frank Lampard's side bid to preserve their Premier League status ahead of this Sunday's matches, including Brentford's visit to Goodison Park plus their reaction to the confirmation of the club's pre-season tour to the USA this summer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13/05/22·47m 6s

Royal Blue: Potentially pivotal weekend in the fight for survival as Everton banish their travel sickness

Host Connor O'Neill joins Joe Thomas, Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland for an upbeat edition of the Royal Blue podcast following Everton's 2-1 victory at Leicester City secured three points away from home in the Premier League for the first time since last August.The result also moved Frank Lampard's side above both Burnley and Leeds United and out of the relegation zone as Ukrainian international Vitalii Mykolenko scored his first goal in English football.The panel discuss the game at the King Power Stadium, the role Evertonians played - both at the ground and in seeing off the team bus from Finch Farm - and Wednesday night's upcoming fixture at Watford. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/05/22·55m 45s

Royal Blue: Huge Boost for Everton Safety as Goodison Pushes Blues over line against Chelsea

Join Host Connor O'Neil, Adam Jones, Chris Beesley and Gav Buckland for the latest Episode of the Royal Blue Podcast.A huge win for the Blues over third-placed Chelsea has kept their survival hopes alive and the panel discuss the special Goodison Park atmosphere - including the pre-match welcome; key displays from the likes of Richarlison and Yerry Mina plus Jordan Pickford's stunning saves as well as addressing where all this leaves Frank Lampard's side in the battle against the drop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/05/22·55m 9s

Royal Blue: Chelsea Preview, Anthony Gordon Reputation, & Dominic Calvert-Lewin Fitness Dilemma

Host Chris Beesley joins Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and regular guest Gavin Buckland to preview the Blues' Premier League home game against Chelsea on Sunday. Ahead of the fixture against his previous employers - and the club where he spent the bulk of his playing career - Everton manager Frank Lampard delivered an impassioned defence of Anthony Gordon amid suggestions that the home-grown hero goes down too easily and the panel discuss the aftermath of the club's exchanges with the PGMOL over the incidents at Anfield, the fitness of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Ben Godfrey plus the two academy roles that have been advertised ahead of what Gavin describes as the most-important sequence of fixtures in the Blues' history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
29/04/22·54m 51s

Royal Blue: Merseyside Derby Loss, Penalty Appeals & Relegation Zone Reality

This week it's a bumper edition of the Royal Blue podcast as host Connor O'Neill is joined by Joe Thomas, Gavin Buckland, Chris Beesley and Adam Jones to discuss all things Everton!The lads start by discussing a spirited Everton performance in their 2-0 Merseyside derby loss to Liverpool, touching on the numerous refereeing incidents throughout the game as well as the performance of Anthony Gordon.The panel then moves on to discuss Everton's remaining games and the reality of dropping into the bottom three, as well as whether Leeds United could be dragged into the relegation fight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
25/04/22·50m 38s

Royal Blue: Leicester Draw, Dele Alli Struggles & Liverpool Preview

A brand new episode of the Royal Blue Podcast is here, and host Connor O'Neill is joined by Chris Beesley and Joe Thomas to discuss all things Everton!The lads review the 1-1 draw at Goodison Park with Leicester City, before moving on to discuss the struggles of Dele Alli since his move from Spurs.The panel then debate Richarlison's best position in the side as well as touching on Dominic Calvert Lewin's disappointing season.Finally, the lads preview a huge clash at Anfield against Liverpool, discussing just how important this Merseyside derby could prove to be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22/04/22·56m 38s

Royal Blue: Everton's crucial win over Manchester United and David Unsworth departure reaction

Adam Jones is joined by Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland for a welcome positive episode of the podcast!The panel discusses Everton's crucial win over Manchester United on Saturday afternoon thanks to Anthony Gordon's deflected goal in the first half of the game.Fabian Delph, Vitalii Mykolenko and Jordan Pickford come in for particular praise during the conversation thanks to their crucial roles for the Blues.The lads also react to the news of David Unsworth leaving the club to pursue his ambitions as a first-team manager elsewhere, with some discussion over where Everton go next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/04/22·44m 16s

Royal Blue: Turf Moor Loss, Manchester United Preview and DCL's Struggles

The latest episode of the Royal Blue podcast is here! Host Connor O'Neill is joined by Gavin Buckland, Chris Beesley and Joe Thomas to discuss the latest Blues news.The panel start by discussing the disappointing 3-2 loss away at Turf Moor, before moving on to discuss Dominic Calvert Lewin's struggles and the need to get the striker back firing.The group then preview Saturday's huge clash with Manchester United, going through possible team selection dilemmas before providing their score predictions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
08/04/22·56m 21s

Royal Blue: West Ham Defeat, Boxing Brothers and Burnley Away

The Royal Blue Podcast returns with two special guests after the defeat to West Ham United.Sam Carroll is joined by Everton correspondent Joe Thomas and the unbeaten boxing brothers Peter and Joe McGrail to discuss defeat in the capital, their fledgling careers and growing up supporting Everton.Peter and Joe, born and raised in Liverpool, are massive Evertonians and making a name for themselves in the ring.Peter, who won his last fight in Dubai in March by knockout, is 3-0 as a professional while Joe is also unbeaten at 2-0.They will be fighting at the M&S Bank Arena on Friday April 22 in Probellum Liverpool, headlined by Paul Butler, from Ellesmere Port, who is fighting for the world bantamweight title.Sam Maxwell, Jazza Dickens, Rocky Fielding and a whole host of other Liverpool fighters are on the card and you can get tickets on the M&S Bank Arena website.https://www.mandsbankarena.com/whats-on/probellum-boxing/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/04/22·46m 6s

Royal Blue: International Break, Burnley Preview & New Team Member

On today’s episode of the Royal Blue Podcast, Chris Beesley and Paul Wheelock are joined by the ECHO’s new Everton correspondent Joe Thomas.Joe joins the team after more than a decade working on news on Merseyside, including covering the criminal prosecutions linked to the Hillsborough tragedy and its aftermath.The lads discuss the importance of the Premier League break in giving Frank Lampard an opportunity to ‘reset’ with the squad after the Crystal Palace FA Cup defeat, and how a few confidence-boosting international performances could prove useful to the Blues’ survival hopes.They also attempt to answer the question on many of our minds at the moment - is Burnley away next week currently a ‘must win’, or ‘must not lose’ fixture? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28/03/22·49m 31s

Royal Blue: FA Cup Blow, Potential Formation Shake-up & Players Desire

On today’s episode of the Royal Blue Podcast, Adam Jones is joined by Chris Beesley & Gavin Buckland to talk about Everton’s exit from the FA Cup at Selhurst Park on Sunday. The lads discuss the frustrations of Frank Lampard and raise questions over the players desire following a post-match press conference where the manager showed his emotions.The trio discuss the potential possibility or a formation change in order to best utilise the players that Everton have at their disposal and talk about the poor decision by some of the players and what they need to do to put things right by the end of the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21/03/22·41m 14s

Royal Blue: Everton’s crucial Newcastle win, amazing Goodison atmosphere and Crystal Palace build-up

Adam Jones is joined by Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland for a hugely upbeat podcast!The panel look back on a crucial Everton win over Newcastle, praising the fight of the players and discussing match-winner Alex Iwobi.The lads also look ahead to an upcoming FA Cup quarter final against Crystal Palace on the horizon.With confidence high, can Everton send themselves to Wembley? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
18/03/22·44m 38s

Royal Blue: Wolves loss, relegation picture & Newcastle preview

Host Connor O'Neill is joined by Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland for the Royal Blue Podcast in a week that saw another disappointing loss at Goodison Park for Everton against Wolves.The lads discuss the relegation picture, looking into the Blues' remaining fixtures as well as those around them.The panel then moves on to previewing a huge relegation battle clash against Newcastle, before discussing Dominic Calvert-Lewin's absence from the team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/03/22·51m 19s

Royal Blue: Who's to blame for Tottenham Hotspur horror show? | Tribute to Gordon Lee

Connor O'Neill and Gavin Buckland join Adam Jones for the first Royal Blue podcast of a week which has started in the worst possible fashion for Everton. Monday night's 5-0 drubbing at Tottenham Hotspur means the Blues remain right in the relegation fight but, more than the result itself, what does the pitiful performance say about their chances of escaping the drop? Our panel look back at the 'horror show', focusing, in particular, on the performance of centre-back Michael Keane. But should he have even started the game given Frank Lampard's admission? And did Lampard get his tactics all wrong? Both of those questions are answered before the focus turns to the importance of getting Ben Godfrey back fit and the form of Dominic Calvert-Lewin. And the podcast ends with Gav paying tribute to former Everton manager Gordon Lee, whose sad passing at the age of 87 was announced today (March 8). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
08/03/22·42m 19s

Royal Blue: A spot in the FA Cup Quarter's secured & Tottenham Hotspur on the Horizon

On today's instalment of the Royal Blue Podcast, Adam Jones is joined by Christopher Beesley & Gav Buckland to discuss Everton's win over Boreham Wood in the FA Cup and the Quarter Final draw against Crystal Palace before going on to preview the upcoming fixture in the Premier League away at Tottenham Hotspur. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/03/22·41m 33s

Royal Blue Podcast: VAR controversy overshadows strong Everton performance against Man City

Adam Jones is joined by Chris Beesley, Gav Buckland and Paul Wheelock to discuss Everton's defeat to Man City on Saturday.Unsurprisingly, the conversation is dominated by VAR and officiating decisions as the Blues were denied a stone-wall penalty late on.The panel also goes over what was a strong performance from Frank Lampard's side, and look ahead to an important FA Cup clash with Boreham Wood later in the week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28/02/22·49m 46s

Royal Blue Podcast: Everton Supporters Have Pivotal Role as Fan Advisory Board Survey Released

In a special edition of the Royal Blue Podcast, Adam Jones looks into the pivotal role Everton supporters will play as a survey regarding a future Fan Advisory Board has been released.Our host is joined by Jazz Bal, chairman of the Everton Stakeholder Steering Group, and Bren Connolly - chairman of the Everton Heritage Society.The panel discuss the importance of fan involvement now as they look ahead to having representation on the club's board in the future.Both on and off field matters come up in the conversation, with the situation as it stands and the important next steps also on the agenda. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
24/02/22·32m 11s

Royal Blue Podcast: Southampton, Squad Character & The Blues going into the back-end of the season

This week on the Royal Blue Podcast, Christopher Beesley is joined by Gavin Buckland, Adam Jones & Sam Carroll to take a look back on the weekend’s disappointing result at St. Mary’s against Southampton. The lads take a look at the initial impressions that Frank Lampard has had and the tough run that he and the squad have ahead of them. Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s form is discussed along with the responsibility there is on the players to step up going into the back end of the season with some difficult games on the horizon. The boys talk about how realistic it is for Everton to stay in the league and how more than anything, performances are needed. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21/02/22·42m 6s

Royal Blue Podcast: Frank Lampard's rejuvenated Everton set sights on Southampton & Rising Ticket Prices at Goodison

Welcome to the latest Episode of the Royal Blue Podcast! Adam Jones is in the hot seat this week and is in the esteemed company of Chris Beesley, Paul Wheelock and Gav Buckland, as the quartet preview this weekend's South-Coast Clash with Southampton!The Blues are on a high after their 3-0 win over Leeds, and will be looking to build on their impressive development under Frank Lampard.Talk then moves to Everton's decision to raise Season Ticket Prices for the first time in 10 years at Goodison Park, a move which has sparked much debate.Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
18/02/22·47m 58s

Royal Blue Podcast: Nick Palmer US Special

USA-based fan Nick Palmer a.k.a. Astro has been keeping fellow Evertonians entertained with his high-energy online videos all season and now he joins the Royal Blue podcast as a special guest.A colourful character on both Twitter and YouTube, the 43-year-old remains humble about his new-found fame, proclaiming: "Without y'all I'm just some silly dufus from middle Georgia that loves Everton too much."Chris Beesley asks Nick about the attention he's received, his thoughts on the season so far and hopes for the future under Frank Lampard plus how he became a Blue.Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
17/02/22·33m 26s

Royal Blue: Goodison Park atmosphere, Frank Lampard impact lifts Alex Iwobi & Donny van de Beek stars

Adam Jones is joined by Chris Beesley and Connor O’Neill to get into Everton’s 3-0 win over Leeds United at Goodison Park on Saturday. The panel discuss the importance of getting back to winning ways in front of the home crowd as well as analysing the impact of the home support. Alex Iwobi’s showing was also praised with Frank Lampard having publicly spoken about the trust he has in the former Arsenal midfielder before conversation moves onto Donny van de Beek. Having won the Man of the Match award on his home debut, the panel look deeper into how his move to Goodison Park came about, the role he could play for the remainder of the season and what the chances could even be of him staying with the Blues. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/02/22·46m 14s

Royal Blue Podcast: Centre Back Injury Woes and Leeds Preview

Host Chris Beesley is joined by Gavin Buckland and Adam Jones to preview a huge game against Leeds at Goodison, was well as discuss injury problems and proactive support.The relegation battle the Toffees find themselves in is also on the agenda, as the lads look ahead to all of the big games left to be played this season.How will Lampard and his squad bounce back from the Newcastle defeat? Will the support at Goodison spur them on to a huge victory over Leeds? It's all on the agenda for this episode of the Royal Blue podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/02/22·36m 47s

Royal Blue Podcast: Newcastle Loss, League Position and Yerry Mina

Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Chris Beesley, Gavin Buckland and Adam Jones to review a disappointing loss to Newcastle as well as discuss the wider implications on Everton's league position.The impact of Yerry Mina's injury is also on the agenda as the Blues look ahead to a crucial game at Goodison against Leeds United.How will this loss be taken by Lampard and his squad? And what do Everton need to do to avoid being drawn into a relegation battle? It's all on the agenda for another episode of the Royal Blue podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/02/22·33m 33s

Royal Blue Podcast: FA Cup Statement, Frank Lampard Factor and Dele Alli Debut

Join Chris Beesley, Connor O'Neill and Gavin Buckland as they revisit Everton's emphatic 4-1 win over Brentford in Frank Lampard's first game in charge of Everton. There's also a look ahead to tomorrow night's trip to St James' Park, where new signings Dele Alli and Donny van de Beek will hope to feature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/02/22·44m 16s

Royal Blue Podcast: Lampard's First Game & Ashley Cole Appointment

Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland to look ahead to Frank Lampard's first game in charge as well as the appointment of Ashley Cole.Deadline day has passed and Frank Lampard has the squad he will be working with for the rest of the season, but the additions continued with the recruitment of Lampard's former teammate Ashley Cole into the Goodison coaching staff.But how will Cole's impact be felt? And what will Lampard's first team look like?It's all on the agenda for another lively podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/02/22·48m 46s

Royal Blue Podcast: Frank Lampard appointment and Everton's hectic transfer deadline day assessed

Host Adam Jones is joined by Phil Kirkbride, Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland to discuss a whirlwind transfer deadline day.Frank Lampard has been confirmed as the new Everton manager, with the panel discussing his announcement and excitement around the coming weeks under his leadership.And, of course, the Blues also confirmed important arrivals in both Donny van de Beek and Dele Alli making moves to Goodison Park.But how will they fit into the same system? What will Everton look like in the future?It's all on the agenda for another lively podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/02/22·57m 46s

Royal Blue Podcast: DEADLINE DAY - Dele Alli, Donny van de Beek, Luka Jovic Latest

Join Adam Jones and Kai Delaney for all the latest developments from Finch Farm on transfer deadline day.Frank Lampard has been officially confirmed as manager, while there are updates on the deals involving Man Utd midfielder Donny van de Beek and Spurs' Dele Alli. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
31/01/22·17m 39s

Royal Blue Podcast: David Prentice Special! A look back over Prenno's incredible career

A special Royal Blue podcast was recorded to mark the departure of a Liverpool ECHO legend.Dave Prentice, who has held a variety of roles at the ECHO for over three decades, is today leaving the company to join Everton Football Club.Dave, who has written about his beloved Blues for 34 years, talks about his new role as Senior Communications Manager at Goodison and why he is making the change in his career.But the former Everton Reporter and Sports Editor, takes us back through the journey of his journalistic life which has Everton had the very heart of it.Dave talks about his favourite matches to have reported on, the highs and lows of the job, an incredible run of having never missed a match, and the managers who became more than contacts.Sit back, relax and listen to Dave's tale of an incredible career in football journalism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28/01/22·45m 14s

Royal Blue Podcast: Everton's Aston Villa loss, fan protests and managerial search latest

Adam Jones is joined by Chris Beesley and Gav Buckland to dissect another busy few days for Everton.The Blues unfortunately suffered another loss on Saturday as Aston Villa won 1-0 at Goodison Park.The panel discuss Duncan Ferguson's credentials as temporary manager and the team selection decisions the caretaker boss made in what was generally a drab performance.Fan protests after the game are also gone over in detail, with Farhad Moshiri continually under pressure to make structural changes at the club.Finally, the lads talk about the managerial role at Goodison Park, with Vitor Pereira the latest name to be linked. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
24/01/22·52m 47s

Royal Blue Podcast: Duncan Ferguson, Ownership & Aston Villa

The Royal Blue Podcast back! Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Gavin Buckland, Christopher Beesley & Adam Jones to discuss all things Everton FC. The gang start off by sinking their teeth into the recent appointment of Duncan Ferguson as they touch upon his Press Conference from earlier today, they then move on to the current state of the club and what they would like to see from a managerial and ownership perspective moving forward. To round up, the lads looked ahead to the upcoming fixture against Steven Gerrard’s Aston Villa. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21/01/22·50m 23s

Royal Blue Podcast: Rafa Benitez Sacked | Reaction | Martinez, Ferguson & Rooney In Contention

The drama continues at Everton as a 2-1 defeat to bottom of the table Norwich City proved the final act for Rafa Benitez who was sacked on Sunday after just half a season in charge.The former Liverpool boss won just one of his last 13 matches in charge of the Blues and after wielding the axe on his hugely-controversial summer appointment, owner Farhad Moshiri is now searching for his seventh manager in less than six years at the club.Just where to Everton go from here and who do they turn to ahead of Aston Villa's visit to Goodison Park this weekend?Chris Beesley, Connor O'Neill and Gavin Buckland join host Sam Carroll to dissect the rubble in the Royal Blue podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
17/01/22·49m 2s

Everton confirm Norwich injury boost while Anwar El Ghazi and Lucas Digne transfers discussed

Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland at the end of another busy week for Everton.The club have brought in another player, confirming the loan signing of Anwar El Ghazi until the end of the campaign.Meanwhile, Lucas Digne completed his permanent transfer in the opposite direction, joining Aston Villa.The panel discusses both of those moves and talks over a very important clash against Norwich this weekend.Injury boosts and Rafa Benitez's tactics are top of the agenda, with some positive predictions at the end too! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/01/22·43m 53s

Royal Blue: Everton scrape past Hull, Leicester City postponement and Lucas Digne latest

Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Gav Buckland and Chris Beesley to discuss a busy few days of Everton news.The Blues scraped past Hull City on Saturday evening after extra time thanks to a late goal from Andros Townsend.The panel discuss more impressive displays from Anthony Gordon and Demarai Gray, but again question the system that the visitors lined up with.Also on the agenda is Everton's match with Leicester City frustratingly being postponed for the second time, and the latest on Lucas Digne's future after strong links to Aston Villa. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/01/22·50m 26s

Royal Blue Podcast: Rafa Benitez's extraordinary Lucas Digne revelation

Join Phil Kirkbride, Adam Jones, Chris Beesley, Dave Prentice & Gav Buckland on the Royal Blue Podcast as they react to Rafa's claim that Lucas Digne wants to leave Everton. Benitez detailed a conversation between the pair and explained why he believes Digne is more concerned about his own 'stats' than the team's performances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/01/22·43m 12s

Royal Blue Podcast Special Edition: Boys from the Blue Stuff - Gavin Buckland's new book

In a special edition of the Royal Blue podcast, Gavin Buckland speaks about his new book Boys from the Blue Stuff with the Echo's David Prentice and host Chris Beesley.Following on from his 2019 publication Money Can't Buy Us: Everton in the 1960s, Gavin's latest release - which is available now - charts Everton's rise to 1980s glory through the difficult days of Billy Bingham and Gordon Lee's reign and then Howard Kendall's early struggles before a dramatic and glorious turnaround.The highs and lows of the era are brought to life through 400 illuminating pages of Gavin's prose and he and David discuss how the book has inspired them to re-evaluate a period that was their respective formative years.Concluding with the Blues' magnificent 1985 League Championship and success in the European Cup-Winners' Cup, with what is considered the greatest team in the club's history and one of the best club sides the English game has ever produced, Gavin points out that at least readers know that there's a happy ending! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
06/01/22·1h 3m

Royal Blue Podcast: Reaction to Everton's grim Brighton defeat

Join Adam Jones, Chris Beesley, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland as they reflect on Everton's disappointing defeat to Brighton, Rafa Benitez's confusing setup and the club's worrying run of recent form Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/01/22·57m 6s

Royal Blue Podcast - The Blues Secure An Important Point At Stamford Bridge

Rafa Benitez's men travelled down to Stamford Bridge for a tricky affair with Chelsea but the blues held out against a tough opponent, Mason Mount with the opener after 70 minutes but it was a quick reply from Jarrad Branthwaite that saw Everton go on to gain a point in the capital. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
17/12/21·45m 1s

Royal Blue Podcast - Dissecting the Everton 'mess' and the future of Rafa Benitez

The Royal Blue Podcast returns to discuss the 'mess' Everton and Rafa Benitez find themselves in after defeat to Crystal Palace. Sam Carroll is joined by Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland as they discuss the loss at Selhurst Park, the future of Rafa Benitez and the situation surrounding Lucas Digne. Benitez was jeered by Everton supporters following the substitution of Richarlison on Sunday and despite Adam and Dave having some sympathy for the manager, the panel admits he has backed himself into a corner with his treatment of Digne. You can follow the Royal Blue Podcast group on Facebook or follow the panel on Twitter at @Adam_Jones94, @prenno and @GavinBuckland1. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13/12/21·50m 37s

Royal Blue Podcast: Digne Dilemma, January Transfer Targets & a trip to the Eagles' Nest

Welcome to the latest episode of the Royal Blue Podcast with Phil Kirkbride, Dave Prentice and Adam Jones!The show begins with a reflection of the superb late win against Arsenal at Goodison Park on Monday, and whether Rafa is beginning to turn things around.The lads preview this weekend's clash with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, and with that comes plenty of discussion around selection, most notably the situation of left-back Lucas Digne.And of course, with the January transfer window drawing near, there is plenty of transfer rumours and potential targets to discuss.Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/12/21·40m 58s

Royal Blue Podcast Special: Alan Ball Departure 50 Year Anniversary

We've produced a special edition of the Royal Blue podcast as we mark the anniversary of one of the most-seismic moments in Everton’s history.We’re reflecting upon the departure of an Everton legend, one of the greatest and most-influential players ever to don the royal blue jersey, Alan Ball.Some 50 years ago this month on December 22 1971, Ball was sold by Everton manager Harry Catterick to Arsenal for a then British record fee of £220,000.For those who recall the sale, it was Goodison’s Park’s very own version of a JFK assassination/Neil Armstrong moon landing – two huge global news events still fresh in the memory at the time – “where were you when you heard the news?” type moments but it also resonates for the many Evertonians who were either too young to remember or indeed not even born at that time.Ball himself is famously quoted as saying: “Once Everton has touched you, nothing will be the same” but were the Blues fundamentally altered once they made the hugely-controversial decision to cash in on their prize asset some 50 years ago?Host Chris Beesley is joined by BBC Sport’s chief football writer Phil McNulty, Gavin Buckland and David Prentice to discuss the impact of this decision that was so controversial, it's still being fiercely debated half a century later. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
08/12/21·48m 54s

Royal Blue: Gray skies over Goodison lift as Rafa Benitez's hand strengthened following Marcel Brands departure

There was loads to pack into this latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. A first win in nine matches, the dropping of the team's star left-back and, not to mention, the exit of Everton's director of football, among many other things. It has been an eventful few days in the recent history of the Blues and trying to make sense of it all were Gav Buckland, Chris Beesley and Dave Prentice. Host Phil Kirkbride kick-starts the pod by asking the panel for their reflections on a dramatic night at Goodison where Rafa Benitez's side came from behind to defeat Arsenal and claim a vital victory to stop the rot. The performances of Demarai Gray, Richarlison and Michael Keane are discussed before the conversation moves onto the major news of the week - Brands' departure. The lads talk about Brands' legacy, the conditions in which he worked for the past three-and-a-half-years and what this now means for the director of football model at Goodison. Talk then turns to one of Brands' best signings: Lucas Digne. Digne was bombed from Benitez's squad on Monday night and the lads wonder if a January transfer could be on the cards? Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/12/21·49m 41s

Royal Blue Podcast: Bonus Special! Arsenal Preview & a big January ahead for Dominic Calvert-Lewin

Hello and Welcome to a Bonus Special of the Royal Blue Podcast with your host Adam Jones, who is joined by Gav Buckland and Dave Prentice.The trio preview the Toffees' clash with Arsenal on Monday Night in yet another 'must-win' match for Rafa Benitez.Following the recent transfer speculation surrounding star-striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Monday's opponents, the lads also highlight the significance the imminent January Transfer Window may have.Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/12/21·34m 1s

Royal Blue Podcast: Merseyside Derby Defeat Reaction as Season hits new low for Everton

Are Everton at a Crisis Point after Derby Defeat?Join Sam Carroll, Chris Beesley, Adam Jones and Dave Prentice who discuss all things Everton in the aftermath of their 1-4 loss to rivals Liverpool.Talk begins with the on-pitch analysis, and how performance levels of late have given Rafa Benitez and Toffees alike plenty to worry about.Plus, of course, the situation in the Goodison Park Board Room with Farhad Moshiri's antics, and Marcel Brands who came under fire in the ground last night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
02/12/21·48m 32s

Analysing Everton: Rafa Benitez’s misfortune, Moshiri’s wasted fortune & blueprint for Blues success

Analysing Everton is back! Dave Hughes joins Josh Williams for a crossover with Analysing Anfield ahead of the Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park. Josh and Dave discuss the themes around both clubs this season, how Jurgen Klopp has got the Reds firing, with more emphasis on attack, while Rafa's Blues struggle. There's a look at the recruitment model at both clubs with FSG's success at Anfield in comparison to Farhad Moshiri's wasteful spending at Everton. Plus there's a tactical breakdown of what to expect on Wednesday night. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/12/21·1h 2m

Royal Blue: Everton Stung By The Bees Ahead of Goodison Derby

The Royal Blue Podcast returns following the disappointing away defeat to Brentford on Sunday.Host Sam Carroll is joined by Chris Beesley, Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland as the panel contemplate what comes next for Rafa Benitez as well as looking ahead to a crunch Merseyside derby against Liverpool in midweek. Everton are without victory since the end of September and the pressure surrounding Benitez - as well as several mitigating circumstances following his controversial summer appointment - is discussed. Dave urges Farhad Moshiri to make an appearance at Goodison Park on Wednesday for the visit of Liverpool, while Gav explains why Salomon Rondon may continue to lead the line despite still searching for his first Everton goal. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
29/11/21·43m 37s

Royal Blue Podcast: Abdoulaye Doucouré - To Start or not to Start & is Brentford a Six-Pointer?

Welcome back to the latest edition of the Royal Blue Podcast!Host Phil Kirkbridge is joined by the usual suspects Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Gav Buckland to reflect on the recent Toffees performances including the recent loss away to Manchester City.With most of the talk regarding Abdoulaye Doucouré's return (or perhaps non-return) from injury, the lads debate other whether the French midfielder should start or not.Attention then turns to the Striker issues, with Rafa Benitez's recent Press Conference raising eyebrows, where he named the 'remaining' attacking options his side has left, and what impact this may have on his side.And of course, the lads preview this weekend's clash with Brentford in London, and give their predictions of what could be a sticky encounter for the Toffees.Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
26/11/21·51m 8s

Royal Blue: Everton left with the Blues after loss at Etihad as Rafa Benitez waits on stars to return

The Royal Blue Podcast returns this week to discuss the disappointing 3-0 defeat at Manchester City on Saturday. Everton fell to a heavy loss as Rafa Benitez continues to wait for several star players - including Yerry Mina, Abdoulaye Doucoure and Dominic Calvert-Lewin - to return. Sam Carroll is joined by Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Chris Beesley to discuss poor performances from several individuals and what comes next during a tough run of fixtures. There is also time to discuss a new club for Tony Hibbert and transfer rumours linking Jordan Pickford with a move to Tottenham Hotspur. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22/11/21·39m 2s

Royal Blue Podcast: Can Everton really get a result at Man City, will Fabian Delph shine again & should Everton cash in on Jordan Pickford?

It's the ground where Everton regularly took a knife to a gunfight - and came out on top.The Toffees won on four successive visits to Manchester City in the noughties - and even enjoyed back to back draws in 2016 and 2017.But that was then. They haven't won at the Etihad since 2010 - and Phil Kirkbride, Gavin Buckland and David Prentice try to keep it upbeat as they discuss Sunday's post-international break visit.They discuss line ups, the importance of Fabian Delph, Jordan Pickford's future and can Everton realistically expect to come away from the champions with a positive result. Spoiler. Someone does. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
19/11/21·44m 42s

Royal Blue Podcast: Calvert-Lewin chat, Ross Barkley 'return' & Marcel Brands' January transfer plans

The Royal Blue Podcast returns this week to cure your international break boredom!Sam Carroll is joined by Dave Prentice, Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland to discuss another eventful seven days at Goodison Park.Rafa Benitez continues to make his mark behind-the-scenes after it was confirmed director of medical services Danny Donachie will leave after a review into the recent injury record at the club.Everton have also been linked with a January move for Ross Barkley, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin won plaudits for his appearance on the cover of fashion magazine Homme Plus.The panel discuss all of this on the latest episode as well as answering questions posed on social media, including Marcel Brands, Farhad Moshiri and Financial Fair Play. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/11/21·35m 43s

Royal Blue Podcast: Fabian Delph can rewrite Everton story as Mason Holgate and Jean-Philippe Gbamin worry emerges

The Royal Blue Podcast returns to assess the Premier League draw against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday as well as the impending international break.Sam Carroll is joined by guests Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Chris Beesley as they talk through the refereeing performance of Chris Kavanagh and several notable performances at Goodison Park.Fabian Delph has the chance to rewrite his Everton story after a man-of-the-match showing against Spurs but the panel are concerned by the performances of Mason Holgate - sent off on Sunday - and Jean-Philippe Gbamin this term.There is also time to preview the international break as Abdoulaye Doucoure and Dominic Calvert-Lewin continue their recovery from injury.You can join the Royal Blue Podcasts group on Facebook to join the conversation or follow @LivEchoEFC on Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
08/11/21·46m 52s

Royal Blue Podcast: Everton's team selection for visit of Spurs, finding a system to suit Fabian Delph

The Royal Blue podcast team are back for a second time this week to preview Sunday's game with Spurs at Goodison.After having an impact off the bench against Wolves on Monday night, Fabian Delph is in the frame to start the game but how does Rafa Benitez choose a system that brings the best out of him?Would playing 4-3-3 - a formation Benitez doesn't use often - allow for Anthony Gordon to start the game?Host Phil Kirkbride asks these questions, and more, to Adam Jones and Gav Buckland.The Goodison atmosphere, Gomes' situation and much more is also discussed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
05/11/21·44m 46s

Royal Blue: 'Mess at Molineux' and Defensive Disagreements

Join Phil Kirkbride, Chris Beesley, Adam Jones and Gav Buckland as they dissect Everton's 2-1 loss away to Wolves on Monday night. The defensive issues against Watford were on display once again, with the players even arguing with each other at times. The panel discuss Rafa's tactics with particular reference to the midfield, and which personnel should be deployed in Doucoure's absence. The quartet then look ahead to this weekend's clash with Tottenham and their newly appointed coach, Antonio Conte. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
02/11/21·55m 34s

Royal Blue: Walter Smith | SPECIAL | Tribute, tales and stories of former Everton manager

Today's Royal Blue podcast is an edition we'd rather not have recorded. It's a special tribute to the former Everton manager, Walter Smith, who passed away on Monday aged 73. Alan Myers, who was the club's Communication Manager when Walter was manager, Kevin Campbell, who Walter brought to the club on loan, signed permanently in 1999 then made the club captain, and David Prentice, who was the Echo's Everton correspondent when Walter was at the helm, all share their recollections and memories of a very special man. It's a sad subject, but with plenty of uplifting moments about a man who enriched their lives and everyone he came into contact with. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
27/10/21·59m 31s

Royal Blue: Watford shambles dissected as Salomon Rondon and set piece debates continue

Host Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Chris Beesley and Gav Buckland to try and understand what happened at Goodison Park on Saturday. Everton were beaten 5-2 at the hands of Watford thanks to a disgraceful collapse in the final moments of the match, in which the hosts conceded four goals in 13 minutes. Set pieces were again a problem for Rafa Benitez's side, but the gaping defensive issues didn't stop there. Our panel also discussed the effectiveness of Salomon Rondon and how poor the Blues looked in midfield without the influence of Abdoulaye Doucoure. Some harsh truths needed to be told. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
25/10/21·44m 15s

Royal Blue: Everton's injury problems, the team's run of fixtures, Watford and ticket price analysis

The Royal Blue team had plenty to get their teeth stuck into in the latest edition of the podcast. Top of the agenda today, as host Phil Kirkbride posed the questions to Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Gav Buckland, was Everton's growing injury problems. A week that had already confirmed a lay-off for Abdoulaye Doucoure also brought us confirmation of a set-back for Dominic Calvert-Lewin and an injury to Yerry Mina. The panel assess Everton's injury problems and look at how Rafa Benitez will cope for the upcoming games. Today's conversation then moves onto ticket prices after the club confirmed the cost of coming to Goodison will go up next season as Everton begin the process of working out how life will look at the new stadium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22/10/21·52m 16s

Royal Blue: Iwobi and Rondon struggle but they were not the only ones as Moyes gets one over Everton

Host Sam Carroll is joined by Dave Prentice and Chris Beesley for the first Royal Blue podcast recorded in first person since March 2020. But sadly the panel, which also includes Gavin Buckland from home, are not reflecting on a fourth straight Everton Goodison Park win. Instead, they look back at the 1-0 defeat to West Ham United on Sunday. They discuss all the big talking points from what was a disappointing outcome, including the controversial decision to award a corner that led to the only goal of the game, and the performances of Salomon Rondon and Alex Iwobi. But while that duo had afternoons to forget, they were not the only ones, with questions about the form of Ben Godfrey and whether the crowd could have done more to inspire the off-colour players also debated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
18/10/21·44m 18s

Royal Blue: Moyes, Zouma and Vlasic return to Goodison as Rafa continues to change minds

Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland join Sam Carroll for your Friday edition of the Royal Blue podcast to look ahead to Sunday's visit of West Ham United to L4. The match will mark the return of David Moyes, along with Kurt Zouma and Nikola Vlasic, to Everton. It's now more than nine years since Moyes left the Blues for Manchester United. His derisory bids for Marouane Fellaini and Leighton Baines after he moved to United soured his relationship with Evertonians. But, with time proving just what a good job he did at Goodison Park, has that frostiness cooled? Equally, are Blues taking Rafa Benitez, who used to go up against Moyes when he was in charge of Liverpool, closer to their hearts? Both questions are discussed by Sam, Gav and Prenno, who held an exclusive interview with Benitez for the Liverpool ECHO this week, which you can read by clicking the links below. And with Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin still sidelined, the panel also ask whether Sunday is the perfect time for Salomon Rondon to kick start his Everton career. Enjoy.https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/rafa-benitez-everton-ferguson-exclusive-21855347https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/rafa-benitez-everton-moshiri-exclusive-21843777 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15/10/21·38m 23s

Royal Blue: Newcastle United takeover, what it means for Everton, and rating Rafa's start

There's no doubting the big football story of the week - the Saudi Arabia-backed takeover of Newcastle United. But what does it mean for the Everton? And given the ethical concerns around the deal, how easily does it sit that it has been given the green light by the Premier League? Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland join Phil Kirkbride to discuss that on the latest Royal Blue podcast, as well as assessing Everton's start to the season so far and the performance of new manager Rafa Benitez. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
08/10/21·45m 11s

Analysing Everton: Benitez's Blues reassessed as numbers don't lie behind impressive start

By popular demand, David Hughes and Josh Williams are back with Analysing Everton, their excellent tactics and analytics podcast. And it's a good time to return with the Blues just two points off top spot going into the international break following the 1-1 draw at Manchester United last weekend. So have our hosts changed their pre-season predictions? David and Josh give their opinions on that, then dig deep into the numbers to explain whether Everton's impressive start to the campaign is built on solid foundations. Focusing on what new boss Rafa Benitez has done to the team, they also look at the performances of prominent individual players, including Demarai Gray, Andros Townsend and Abdoulaye Doucoure, and also talk about where Dwight McNeil, the Burnley winger who was linked with a move to Goodison Park in the summer, could fit in. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
06/10/21·50m 45s

Royal Blue: Townsend and Doucoure steal show at Old Trafford once again but Mina importance is rising

Sam Carroll is joined by Adam Jones, Chris Beesley and Dave Prentice for the Royal Blue podcast to talk Everton's excellent 1-1 draw at Manchester United, the performances of Andros Townsend, Anthony Gordon and Abdoulaye Doucoure, and whether Tom Davies should have shot instead of passed to Yerry Mina. Speaking of Mina, his increasingly impressive displays are discussed, as is the start to the campaign, and the work done by Rafa Benitez, going into the international break. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/10/21·44m 7s

Royal Blue: United preview, Davies chance, and Rafa's talks with Richarlison

Adam Jones, Chris Beesley and Dave Prentice join Adam Jones to look ahead to tomorrow's trip to Manchester United in the latest Royal Blue podcast. With Alex Iwobi joining the walking wounded, could there be a start for Tom Davies at Old Trafford in what is a big season for the Everton midfielder? Also up for discussion is Salomon Rondon's Blues career so far, the prospect of Dominic Calvert-Lewin's and Richarlison's return, plus the talks Rafa Benitez held with the latter this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/10/21·43m 46s

Royal Blue: Doucoure delight, Dobbin debut & Richarlison speaks on Everton future

Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice and Connor O’Neill for the latest Royal Blue podcast, looking back on the weekend’s win over Norwich City and more. Having seen off the Canaries at Goodison Park, the analysis focuses on the midfield Rafa Benitez has put together with Abdoulaye Doucoure one of those kicking on under the Spaniard. Lewis Dobbin’s cameo from the bench leads the discussion onto Everton’s academy pathway before moving onto Richarlison’s future following the latest comments made by the Brazilian. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28/09/21·45m 14s

Royal Blue: Final word on James Rodriguez as Everton look to bounce back from yet another League Cup disappointment with must-win match

Sam Carroll, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland join host Adam Jones for the Royal Blue podcast. Looking back at the disappointing Carabao Cup penalty shoot-out defeat at QPR on Tuesday, they pick out the players who let themselves down and the handful who did themselves a favour. James Rodriguez was nowhere to be seen at Loftus Road Instead, he was in Qatar, finalising his move to Al Rayyan. The panel have the final word on the Colombian superstar who never got to play in front of fans at Goodison Park before looking ahead to a 'must-win' match at home to Norwich City on Saturday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
24/09/21·42m 1s

Royal Blue: James Rodriguez exit assessed as Everton squad stretched already

The Royal Blue Podcast returns to assess the potential exit of James Rodriguez to Qatar and the Premier League defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday. Sam Carroll is joined by guests Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland as they also talk through the Carabao Cup trip to Queens Park Rangers. Gavin believes Everton were put in a difficult position by Carlo Ancelotti and Rodriguez while Dave insists the parting of the ways seems to be mutual between the Colombian and Rafa Benitez. There is also time to discuss The Boys from the Blue Stuff - a new book by Gavin set to be released at the end of September with a glowing reference from fellow author Dave. You can follow the Royal Blue Podcasts group on Facebook. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
20/09/21·53m 0s

Royal Blue: Shifting perceptions and transforming Doucoure, but Villa offer Benitez his biggest test yet

The Royal Blue Podcast is back and hoping Everton can continue their unbeaten start to the 2021/22 season. Rafa Benitez takes his side to face Aston Villa on Saturday evening with the Blues riding high on what has been a very strong start to the campaign. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Gav Buckland to discuss the perception of the new boss after his opening five matches of the term - and look ahead to what could be a very interesting encounter with Dean Smith's side this weekend. The panel also talk over the latest stadium news as Bramley-Moore Dock is ready to receive a £45m funding boost. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
17/09/21·43m 1s

Royal Blue: Oh what a night! Sensational six-minute spell leaves Blues in heaven and continues Rafa's dream start

Adam Jones, David Prentice and Gavin Buckland join Phil Kirkbride to reflect on last night's stirring 3-1 win over Burnley at an electric Goodison Park, in the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast, focussing on the performances of the likes of Andros Townsend, Demarai Gray, Andre Gomes, Yerry Mina and Michael Keane. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/09/21·40m 11s

Royal Blue: What might happen next with Dwight McNeil and James Rodriguez as Salomon Rondon talks the Everton way

Adam Jones, David Prentice and Gavin Buckland join Phil Kirkbride for the Royal Blue podcast to preview Everton v Burnley at Goodison Park on Monday and react to an interesting Rafa Benitez podcast. Dwight McNeil, Salomon Rondon, Donny van de Beek and James Rodriguez are all discussed. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/09/21·45m 47s

Royal Blue: Everton's transfer window assessed as Rondon arrives but right-back and Rodriguez issues remain

Adam Jones and Connor O’Neill join host Phil Kirkbride to look back on Everton’s summer transfer window after deadline day saw the arrival of Salomon Rondon but not a new right-back, or the departure of James Rodriguez. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/09/21·45m 5s

Royal Blue: Calvert-Lewin keeps cool despite Richarlison sulk & Blues preparing late spending spree?

The Royal Blue podcast is back as Everton continued their unbeaten start to the season in impressive fashion. Goals from Demarai Gray and Dominic Calvert-Lewin secured a 2-0 win over Brighton at the weekend, and our panel had a lot to say on the match. Host Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland to discuss an impressive performance from the Blues and also delve into *that* penalty incident involving Richarlison. And of course, with transfer deadline day just around the corner, the lads also discuss what business they can see Everton completing before 11pm on Tuesday. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30/08/21·35m 47s

Royal Blue: Luis Diaz swap for James Rodriguez, Benitez’s Richarlison to PSG stance & Moise Kean to Juventus?

As the transfer window heads into its final few days, Everton are right at the centre of most of the big deals taking place! Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Gav Buckland to get into the Blues’ proposed swap swoop for Porto winger Luis Diaz with James Rodriguez being offered in exchange. With Cristiano Ronaldo linked with a Juventus exit - and Kylian Mbappe eyeing a move away from PSG, Moise Kean and Richarlison have both been rumoured with moves. Plus, there’s the small matter of Everton’s visit to Brighton to preview! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
27/08/21·53m 28s

Royal Blue: Demarai Gray sparkles at Leeds as DCL joins illustrious company in Everton history books

The Royal Blue podcast is back after what was a pulsating game against Leeds United at Elland Road on Saturday. Host Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland to discuss the finer details of Everton's 2-2 draw with Marcelo Bielsa's side. Top of the agenda is discussion surrounding the two goalscorers at the weekend, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Demarai Gray, while the panel talk over the Blues' attacking promise under Benitez. Also discussed are the mistakes at the back, and Tuesday evening's upcoming trip to face Huddersfield Town in the League Cup. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
23/08/21·45m 24s

Royal Blue: Surprise signing, transfer difficulties and a huge Elland Road test

The Royal Blue podcast team gather for the second time this week as they look ahead to Everton's game with Leeds United. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Gav Buckland to preview the trip to Elland Road. How will the Blues' players keep a ferocious home support quiet, as Leeds play a Premier League game in front of their fans for the first time since 2004? Will Rafa Benitez stick with the side that defeated Southampton or does he have to make changes at the back? The panel try to answer these questions as well as discussing the arrival of new signing Andy Lonergan, the state of play with regards Everton's transfer business as well as the futures of James Rodriguez and Moise Kean. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
20/08/21·43m 7s

Royal Blue: Everton’s transfer priorities as Gray & Townsend show promise as Blues begin with win

Sam Carroll is back in the host chair for the latest Royal Blue podcast, looking back on the opening day win over Southampton and the transfer window. Joined by Phil Kirkbride, Dave Prentice and Adam Jones they analyse Everton’s win over the Saints with Rafa Benitez beginning his Blues tenure with a win at Goodison Park. The debut showings of Demarai Gray and Andros Townsend are also dissected with the two wingers giving cause for optimism. Plus, Everton’s transfer needs are debated, including whether or not Moise Kean and James Rodriguez will remain at the club beyond the close of the window and what signings Marcel Brands will be hoping to land. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
18/08/21·54m 28s

Royal Blue: Richarlison ready for the opening day despite summer exploits | 2021/22 Season Preview, Predictions & Transfer Latest

Ahead of the start of the new Premier League season, the Royal Blue podcast look ahead to the campaign to come. Following on from Rafa Benitez’s press conference ahead of the visit of Southampton, Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Chris Beesley and Gav Buckland to have their say on the major talking points out of Goodison Park. The future of James Rodriguez as well as what else the Blues need to do in the transfer market is also up for discussion prior to our predictions for the opening day’s game with the Saints. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13/08/21·56m 54s

Analysing Everton: Rafa Benitez’s squad options, Demarai Gray Blues’ secret weapon & why Moise Kean's Everton move hasn't worked out?

Ahead of the start of the new season, David Hughes and Josh Williams are back with an analytical take of what Everton can achieve for the coming campaign. Discussing the make-up of Rafa Benitez's squad, Demarai Gray's role he could play at Goodison Park upon arriving this summer as well as Moise Kean's wish to leave are all covered. Linking to Ademola Lookman and Nikola Vlasic's Everton careers, Dave and Josh also consider why the move to Everton hasn't worked for Kean. Plus there's a preview of the opening game of the new season against Southampton. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/08/21·1h 2m

Royal Blue: United preview | James and Kean futures | Rom remembered | Countdown to Goodison return

Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland join Phil Kirkbride for the latest Royal Blue podcast, which starts with a preview of Everton's final pre-season friendly at Manchester United on Saturday, and what we need to see from it. James Rodriguez and Moise Kean look likely to feature at Old Trafford but their futures look far from certain - at a time when Everton need them to be, especially with financial regulations to keep right side of. Other clubs have no such concerns and after debating the spending of Aston Villa, who have money to burn following the £100m sale of Jack Grealish to Manchester City, the panel look at the possible return of former Blues striker Romelu Lukaku to the Premier League and Chelsea. But it's another return that gets Phil, Gav and Prenno truly excited, with the countdown now well and truly on for a full Goodison Park house once again on Saturday week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
06/08/21·55m 59s

Royal Blue: Everton’s pre-season winners and losers as Rafa Benitez assesses transfer market needs

Join Phil Kirkbride, Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Sam Carroll for the latest news from Goodison Park as the new season draws closer. Following the Blues second win out in the US, beating Pumas 1-0, the panel look back on the pre-season preparations to date before looking to the transfer market. With Everton linked with PSV Eindhoven’s Denzell Dumfries and Burnley winger Dwight McNeil, we bring you the latest the pursuit for additions to the squad. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30/07/21·47m 13s

Royal Blue: Bramley-Moore Dock latest, Benitez’s Blues pre-season preparations & transfer targets

Adam Jones is joined by Phil Kirkbride,Dave Prentice, Sam Carroll and Connor O’Neill to get into all the latest Everton talking points. From the first official day at the Bramley-Moore Dock stadium site to pre-season preparations in Florida all bases are covered. Plus there’s the latest from the transfer market fresh from last week’s triple swoop for Asmir Begovic, Andros Townsend and Demarai Gray. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
27/07/21·47m 13s

Royal Blue: Rafa's first press conference and first pre-season outing - and what the Euros will do for Pickford

Adam Jones is joined by Chris Beesley, Connor O'Neill and Gav Buckland for the latest Royal Blue podcast as they react to Rafa Benitez's first press conference as Everton boss, and his first pre-season outing in charge of the club, as well as Jordan Pickford's performance in the Euro 2020 final and whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin should be disappointed he didn't get on. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/07/21·48m 43s

Royal Blue: Rodriguez, Richarlison and Kean questions to answer as new era at Everton gets set to begin

Adam Jones, Sam Carroll and Chris Beesley join host Phil Kirkbride for the latest Royal Blue podcast, following the return to training of the Everton players under new manager Rafa Benitez. But why were some of Benitez's squad missing? And who has the biggest points to prove? The futures of James Rodriguez and Moise Kean are discussed as is the club's decision to allow Richarlison to play at the Olympics. And the podcast ends on an upbeat note as the Blues get set to start work on their magnificent new ground at Bramley-Moore Dock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/07/21·52m 13s

Royal Blue: Reaction to Rafa Benitez’s appointment as Everton manager

Fresh from the new former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has been given the Everton manager’s job, Royal Blue reacts. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Adam Jones, Chris Beesley and Gav Buckland to analyse the decision. From the search to fill the vacancy, led by majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri through to the image it presents for the Blues and the style of play Benitez will bring, all avenues are explored. Plus, with the Spaniard set to officially start in his new role at the start of new week, what can Blues fans expect for next season? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30/06/21·1h 2m

Royal Blue: Farhad Moshiri's managerial conundrum as Rafa Benitez links cause divide at Goodison

Join Phil Kirkbride, Dave Prentice, Sam Carroll and Gav Buckland for the latest Royal Blue podcast as they debate links with former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez and discuss the Blues' next steps. The divide caused regarding the potential appointment of the Spaniard are brought into the conversation as well as his recent managerial record. Comparisons to Carlo Ancelotti are drawn with Benitez having held a similar position within European football added to having managed both Real Madrid and Napoli. If not, Benitez then who? The panel look through the other options open to Farhad Moshiri and Marcel Brands with Everton's search for a manager set to run on.You can join the Royal Blue Podcasts group on Facebook to join the conversation with other supporters or follow the panel on Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
18/06/21·51m 56s

Royal Blue: Nuno Espirito Santo latest and James Rodriguez future as Everton new stadium work begins

The Royal Blue Podcast returns to discuss the continued search for a new manager to replace Carlo Ancelotti at Everton. Nuno Espirito Santo is the current favourite for the position and Sam Carroll is joined by Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Chris Beesley to consider what the Portuguese can offer. Dave admits he is 'underwhelmed' by the appointment while Adam reflects on what the search means for Marcel Brands in his position as director of football and the transfer landscape as a whole following links with Denzel Dumfries. The future of James Rodriguez is also pondered after he admitted he was 'fine' to remain another season at Everton during the weekend. And there is breaking news to discuss after Everton entered their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock to begin preliminary work on the site. Chris gives a detailed history lesson of the 50-year search which led to Bramley-Moore. You can join the Royal Blue Podcasts group on Facebook to join the conversation with other supporters or follow the panel on Twitter. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/06/21·40m 37s

Royal Blue: Nuno Espirito Santo, Farhad Moshiri and the next Everton manager considered

Sam Carroll is joined by Adam Jones and Dave Prentice to analyse who is in the running to succeed the Italian after he returned to Real Madrid on Tuesday. Dave insists David Moyes and Eddie Howe are not viable candidates in the Everton boardroom while left-field options - such as Claudio Ranieri and Maurizio Sarri - are also considered. The trio also react to Everton confirming their retained list at the end of the season as Josh King was released without starting a game, and Yannick Bolasie and Muhamed Besic said goodbye after difficult Goodison Park spells. There is also time for a first ever game of Everton New Manager Bingo - complete with live theme tune! Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/06/21·53m 23s

Analysing Everton: Runners and riders to replace Ancelotti at Goodison Park | Nuno, Potter, Favre

Following a tumultuous week at Goodison Park, David Hughes and Josh Williams are back with Analysing Everton to assess who could replace Carlo Ancelotti. Before getting into replacement, the guys have their say on Ancelotti's departure for Real Madrid and whether or not he was on the road to long-term success with the Blues. From the bookies' favourite Nuno Espirito Santo to others linked with the vacancy such as Graham Potter and Duncan Ferguson we analyse the pros and cons to the contenders for the vacancy. Plus, David and Josh each throw in their own wildcard option to be considered too. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/06/21·58m 55s

Royal Blue: Carlo Ancelotti walks out to rejoin Real Madrid | Why, what next & who do the Blues turn to now?

Fresh from the news Carlo Ancelotti has left Goodison Park to return to Real Madrid, the Royal Blue podcast is here to react. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Gavin Buckland to share their views on Ancelotti’s decision to leave. From the shock, emotion and reasoning for his departure, the panel give their sentiments on the Italians decision to leave less than 18 months after arriving. Marcel Brands role in Everton moving forward is considered before mentioning potential successors for the hot seat at Goodison Park. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/06/21·51m 9s

Analysing Everton: Where Everton’s season went wrong & how Marcel Brands and Carlo Ancelotti fix it this summer

Following the end of the season, Analysing Everton returns with a season review as David Hughes and Josh Williams take a statistical and analytical approach to the Blues’ season. Looking through a number of the key performance indicators, they delve into the numbers to explain what and where the season tailed off for Carlo Ancelotti’s side. After addressing the final few months of the campaign, which ultimately led to the Blues finishing in 10th place, they then move on to address the club’s approach in the transfer market and give their view on the task in hand for Marcel Brands and Ancelotti in improving upon this season next time around. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
27/05/21·1h 2m

Royal Blue: What comes next for Everton and Carlo Ancelotti after disappointing season end

The Royal Blue Podcast returns to pick over the wreckage of a 5-0 defeat at Premier League champions Manchester City on the final day of the season and review a disappointing season for Everton. Carlo Ancelotti took his side to the Etihad knowing European qualification was still a possibility but watched as the visitors were decimated by the Champions League finalists. Sam Carroll is joined by Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland to dissect the defeat and begin to look ahead to what is a crucial transfer window for Ancelotti and Marcel Brands. Adam highlights the need for pace to be brought into the club during the summer while Dave demands a change of penalty taker after another spot-kick failure by Gylfi Sigurdsson. Gavin, meanwhile, believes Ancelotti must improve his own performance from the dugout next season if Everton are to improve. You can join the Royal Blue Podcasts group on Facebook or send your thoughts and questions to @SamCarroll0 on Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
24/05/21·53m 16s

Royal Blue: Everton's James Rodriguez frustrations & permutations for European football ahead of final day

Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland ahead of the final day of the season. Before previewing the visit to Man City on the final day of the Premier League season, the guys look back on the win over Wolves at Goodison Park as 6,500 were in attendance to see Richarlison grab the game's only goal. Missing for the Blues though was James Rodriguez, leading to the panel debating how Carlo Ancelotti plans for next season and what impact the Colombian's injury-hit season will have for squad building for next season. Ahead of the visit to the Etihad, the panel give their customary predictions and discuss the permutations behind the Blues aiming to secure European qualification on the final day. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21/05/21·51m 7s

Royal Blue: Carlo Ancelotti question asked as Everton face another massive transfer window

The Royal Blue Podcast returns after the dismal home defeat to Sheffield United on Sunday. Everton were edged out by an early Daniel Jebbison goal - the 17-year-old making his first Premier League start - to leave their chances of qualifying for European football next season almost non-existent. Sam Carroll is joined by Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Connor O'Neill to look at what went wrong at Goodison Park and how much blame must be shouldered by manager Carlo Ancelotti. The quartet also peer into what the summer transfer window holds for Everton and Farhad Moshiri, with the majority shareholder in attendance to witness the defeat to already-relegated Sheffield United. There is also time to analyse the form of Richarlison and Mason Holgate as well as the pointed post-match remarks of Ancelotti. You can join the Royal Blue Podcasts group on Facebook. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
17/05/21·53m 27s

Royal Blue: Creativity void, Richarlison drought, and time to banish the home Blues

As Everton prepare to welcome Sheffield United to Goodison Park on Sunday, join Adam Jones, Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland for the latest Royal Blue podcast. Fresh from the goalless draw at Villa Park, the panel discuss the lack of creativity against Aston Villa without James Rodriguez and the omission of Tom Davies from Carlo Ancelotti’s midfield. Richarlison’s goal drought is brought into the debate, too, ahead of the Blades’ visit, which is set to be the final game at Goodison without fans, before 6,500 Evertonians will be present for next Wednesday's clash with Wolves. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/05/21·42m 14s

Royal Blue: Everton's massive improvements in West Ham win and how to take them into Aston Villa

Adam Jones is joined by Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland for another positive edition of the Royal Blue podcast! That's because Everton secured their 11th away Premier League win of the season on Sunday afternoon with a 1-0 victory over West Ham United thanks to Dominic Calvert-Lewin's goal. The panel discuss the major improvements on show from the Blues, including standout performances from a lot of players, and look ahead to how they can take that into their next match against Aston Villa. Hope is back, once again... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/05/21·45m 0s

Royal Blue: Everton's crunch fixture against West Ham and Carlo Ancelotti's attacking desire

Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones and Gav Buckland to look ahead to Everton's crucial tie against West Ham at the weekend. Carlo Ancelotti has admitted he wants to play more attacking football in the future, and he could welcome back Abdoulaye Doucoure for this match, but James Rodriguez is out again. The panel discuss how Everton should set up and talk over the job former Blues boss David Moyes has achieved with the Hammers so far this term. The lads also look at the latest Super League "sanctions" from UEFA and talk over a swoop for James Carragher. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
08/05/21·59m 18s

Royal Blue: Villa heap on further Goodison woes as Everton feel James void opens up while Pickford upturn continues

After Everton fell to an eighth Goodison Park defeat of the Premier League season, the Royal Blue podcast is here to react. Host Adam Jones is joined by Chris Beesley, Connor O'Neill and Gav Buckland as they pick through the 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday evening. Amongst the talking points is the nature of the latest defeat for Carlo Ancelotti's side, the creative void left by following an injury to James Rodriguez in the warm-up before getting onto another impressive showing from Jordan Pickford. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/05/21·40m 4s

Royal Blue: Everton’s European ambitions come into focus as Aston Villa come to Goodison | Doucoure back in training for Blues

Everton welcome Aston Villa to Goodison Park as the race for European qualification in the Premier League heats up. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones and Gav Buckland to look ahead to the meeting at Goodison, with the Blues looking to build on the win over Arsenal last time out. The panel discuss the importance of European qualification, whether in the Champions League, Europa League or Europa Conference League, plus Josh King’s future, or lack of as well as Abdoulaye Doucoure’s return to training and Finch Farm before finishing by giving their predictions on the action. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30/04/21·54m 57s

Royal Blue: Pickford's resurgence, Delph's re-emergence, and how the fight for Europe is looking after huge Arsenal win

Dave Prentice, Sam Carroll and Gavin Buckland join Adam Jones for a positively upbeat Royal Blue podcast after Everton won at Arsenal for the first time in 25 years to boost their hopes of finishing in the European places. It was a win that owed much to a superb late save from Jordan Pickford who, on the quiet, has got back to his best. Ben Godfrey and Mason Holgate were in solid form in front of the England goalkeeper, but going forward, who are Everton's first-choice centre-backs? The panel discuss that, plus the surprise return of Fabian Delph, as well as assessing how the fight for Europe is shaping up. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
26/04/21·41m 59s

Royal Blue: What should happen to the breakaway six, Brands' new deal, exciting new talents, and Arsenal previewed

Dave Prentice, Adam Jones, Gavin Buckland and - belatedly, after a few audio problems - Sam Carroll join Phil Kirkbride for the latest Royal Blue podcast. On the agenda is the fallout from the seeming collapse of the European Super League and whether the breakaway six Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, should still face sanctions despite withdrawing from the despised project. Talk then turns to the new Champions League model, and Carlo Ancelotti's enthusiasm for it, before the panel discuss Marcel Brands' new deal, some of the exciting young talents he is helping bring through the academy, and Friday's crunch clash with fellow European hopefuls Arsenal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22/04/21·43m 20s

Royal Blue: Everton's fantastic response to Super League proposals and what it means for English football

Sunday was a huge day in the footballing world after an announcement was made by 12 clubs over the creation of "The Super League". The proposals have been slammed by fans, pundits and governing bodies over the last 48 hours - and Everton have now thrown their response into the mix. And, as ever, it was fantastic. So Adam Jones is joined by Phil Kirkbride, Dave Prentice and Chris Beesley to discuss the Blues' damning statement, plus the reactions of both Denise Barrett-Baxendale and Farhad Moshiri. The panel also discuss the implications of the proposals and what this all should mean for English football in the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
20/04/21·43m 33s

Royal Blue: James Rodriguez Everton’s most gifted player of all-time?

After winning a penalty and dictating much of proceedings at Goodison Park on Friday night, Royal Blue is here to assess the importance of James Rodriguez. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones and Chris Beesley to reflect on the 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur, with the Blues’ European hopes beginning to fade. Having been rested and given time to reach his peak fitness levels, the panel analyse Carlo Ancelotti’s treatment of James Rodriguez and his place amongst some Everton favourites of yesteryear. Gylfi Sigurdsson’s performance is also debated having scored twice against Jose Mourinho’s side before getting onto Alex Iwobi’s stuttering Everton career. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
18/04/21·45m 14s

Royal Blue: Everton injuries peak at wrong time as Jean-Philippe Gbamin blow explored

The Royal Blue Podcast returns hours after Adam Jones and Sam Carroll arrived back in Liverpool following their trip to the South Coast for the goalless draw at Brighton and Hove Albion. Adam and Sam are joined by Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland to discuss the game which was marred by injuries to Jean-Philippe Gbamin, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Joshua King. With the Everton injury list now the worst in the Premier League, the panel discuss the impact on Marcel Brands' summer transfer plans as well as where Carlo Ancelotti will ideally strengthen. There is also talk around Fabian Delph, Andre Gomes, Richarlison and James Rodriguez. And there is time to mention possibly the only good news of the week so far - the reopening of the pubs. You can follow the Royal Blue Podcast on Facebook to join in the Everton discussion. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13/04/21·44m 40s

Royal Blue: Everton's midfield injuries stack up ahead of Brighton as Joshua King future assessed

Everton are back in action against Brighton on Monday evening, but they could have somewhat of an injury crisis in midfield. Andre Gomes will miss the game while Allan faces a late check on his fitness - with Abdoulaye Doucoure already out of action. So, who will start? And what system will Carlo Ancelotti play? Host Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Connor O'Neill and Gavin Buckland to discuss all of that ahead of the trip to the South Coast. The lads also talk over the future of Joshua King, after Ancelotti's interesting comments on the forward's future in Friday's press conference. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/04/21·41m 2s

Royal Blue: James Rodriguez shines but Everton find new ways to frustrate as Euro hopes hit

Host Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Sam Carroll and Gavin Buckland to look back on last night's 1-1 Goodison Park draw with Crystal Palace that meant Everton missed another opportunity to truly close the gap on the Champions League places. The panel marvel at the performance of the goalscorer, James Rodriguez, but lament the finishing of the normally reliable Dominic Calvert-Lewin, as well as Richarlison, and assess whether Carlo Ancelotti got it right with his selection and his substitutions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
06/04/21·46m 12s

Royal Blue: Gbamin ready, Koulibaly transfer, and Everton's player of the season so far

The Royal Blue Podcast returns with a positive Good Friday edition. Sam Carroll is joined by Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland as the quartet discuss the return of Jean-Philippe Gbamin, what it means for Everton and their transfer plans, links to Kalidou Koulibaly and the future of Joao Virginia. Gavin also considers the 'unimpressive' decision of the Republic of Ireland to field Seamus Coleman three times in six days during the international break while wondering whether he could keep a clean sheet against San Marino. Dave gives his take on Carlo Ancelotti insisting Everton only need 'two or three' new signings in the summer while Adam chooses his player of the season. You can follow the Royal Blue podcast group on Facebook or send your thoughts on the episode to @SamCarroll0. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
02/04/21·49m 4s

Analysing Everton: Success of James, Carlo's style, DCL's ceiling, and what transfers the Blues should target

David Hughes and Josh Williams are back with their Analysing Everton tactics and scouting podcast - and it's a special one as they turn the whole of the show over to our listeners. Answering questions sent in beforehand, the panellists talk transfers, whether James Rodriguez's move should be a deemed a success or not, Dominic Calvert-Lewin's ceiling, Carlo Ancelotti's style of football, and much more else besides. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/04/21·1h 12m

Royal Blue: 'THIS IS IT' | Bramley Moore-Dock given go-ahead as Farhad Moshiri gets set to deliver Everton legacy

Join Phil Kirkbride, Dave Prentice, Adam Jones, Sam Carroll and Gavin Buckland for a very special Royal Blue podcast reacting to the news that the government have given Everton the go-ahead to build their spectacular new ground at Bramley-Moore Dock. Looking back on what was a truly momentous day in the club’s history, including how the announcement even took Blues officials by surprise, the panel sum up the excitement in the fanbase and also the sadness that one day, not too long in the future now, we will have to leave Goodison Park behind. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
27/03/21·48m 9s

Royal Blue: How Everton should face Man City challenge and Jean-Philippe Gbamin returns to Finch Farm

Everton are undoubtedly facing a tough test this weekend as Man City visit Goodison Park in the quarter final of the FA Cup. But, Carlo Ancelotti had a certain amount of confidence about his side - and so do our podcast panel. Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland to discuss Joao Virginia starting in goal and how the Blues can challenge Pep Guardiola's side. The lads also discuss a return to Finch Farm for Jean-Philippe Gbamin after his long-term injury absence and assess how positive the coming weeks can be for the 25-year-old. Expect a certain amount of positivity and some interesting predictions at the end... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
19/03/21·47m 6s

Royal Blue: Dismal Everton home form continues as Doucoure-shaped gap appears in Blues' midfield

The Royal Blue Podcast returns this week to discuss the dismal defeat to Burnley at Goodison Park and where it went wrong for Everton. Sam Carroll is joined by Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland as they debate the 'preferred position' of Alex Iwobi, Mason Holgate as a right-back, the absence of Abdoulaye Doucoure and a 'Jekyll and Hyde' showing from Dominic Calvert-Lewin. There is also time for Dave to briefly lock himself out of the video call while Gavin assesses the progress Everton have made and what it means for next season. You join the Royal Blue Podcast group on Facebook and follow @SamCarroll0, @Adam_Jones94, @prenno and @GavinBuckland1 on Twitter for all the latest Everton news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15/03/21·39m 31s

Royal Blue: Alex Iwobi conundrum, Abdoulaye Doucoure and James Rodriguez blow & Davide Ancelotti's role in Blues' resurgence

Carlo Ancelotti has responded to Alex Iwobi's cryptic message about playing in his favoured position ahead of Everton's clash with Burnley at Goodison Park. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland to discuss Ancelotti's press conference ahead of taking on the Clarets including the latest injury news surrounding Abdoulaye Doucoure and James Rodriguez. Plus, ahead of giving match predictions on how the game could play out at Goodison, the panel discuss the importance of the role of assistant manager following Davide Ancelotti speaking exclusively to the ECHO. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/03/21·51m 14s

Analysing Everton: How has Carlo Ancelotti continued to work his magic to defy Everton's underlying numbers?

Following a few weeks away, Analysing Everton is back to rule an eye over the Blues recent run from a statistical and analytical viewpoint. David Hughes and Josh Williams look back on the run of results since the Merseyside derby win and try to get to the bottom of how Everton have maintained their strong form, despite the underlying numbers. Plenty of the praise goes to manager Carlo Ancelotti and his ability to set up the side, as the guys look deep into the numbers and assess the hopes for European qualification. EnjoyDavide Ancelotti Liverpool ECHO exclusive: https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/davide-ancelotti-carlo-everton-tactics-20018439 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/03/21·39m 11s

Royal Blue: Abdoulaye Doucoure, James Rodriguez and why Carlo Ancelotti struck right tone after Chelsea defeat

Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland join Phil Kirkbride to look back at Everton's 2-0 loss at Chelsea on Monday night - and Carlo Ancelotti's reaction to what was his side's first defeat on the road since November. Also on the agenda is the injury sustained by Abdoulaye Doucoure, the fitness of James Rodriguez, and the job a certain David Moyes is doing at top-four rivals West Ham United. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/03/21·31m 38s

Royal Blue: West Brom win, Champions League hopes and Everton's Chelsea challenge assessed

Carlo Ancelotti was delighted to see his side secure their third consecutive Premier League win on Thursday, as was our Royal Blue panel! Richarlison's second half strike kept up Everton's hopes of potential Champions League qualification by briefly pushing them up to fourth in the table, before a Chelsea win over Liverpool had them overtake the Blues. A trip to Stamford Bridge is next on the horizon, and that will surely be a huge test for the credentials of this side. Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Gav Buckland to revel in the good mood currently surrounding Everton and assess what could be to come in the future. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
05/03/21·44m 51s

Royal Blue: Big Sam stands in way of Everton and top four after home comforts restored

Dave Prentice and Adam Jones join host Phil Kirkbride as the Royal Blue podcast returns to review Everton's 1-0 win over Southampton on Monday and preview Thursday's visit to Sam Allardyce's West Brom. Richarlison's early strike ensured the Blues beat the Saintsand ended their run of five Premier League games without a win at Goodison Park. But there's also praise for the performances of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Jordan Pickford and the returning Allan before talk turns to the showdown with the relegation-haunted Baggies, who are of course managed by former Everton boss Allardyce. Victory over Big Sam's side would haul the Blues into the top four for a couple of hours at least and would set them up nicely for next Monday's huge match at Chelsea. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
02/03/21·42m 18s

Royal Blue: Farhad Moshiri's Everton dream taking shape five years on as Bramley-Moore dock moves big step towards reality

The Royal Blue podcast has plenty to talk about after a jam-packed and hugely significant week at Everton. On the heels of Monday’s show, which reflected on an historic win at Anfield, host Phil Kirkbride, Dave Prentice, Sam Carroll and Gav Buckland get stuck into the events which have followed. At the top of the agenda is the Blues taking a massive step towards building a new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock after Liverpool City Council gave its seal of approval. The panel talk about the excitement of the big move, and what it will do for the club, but they also reflect on the prospect of leaving Goodison Park in the future. Carlo Ancelotti's players return to the ground on Monday night for a game with Southampton, with the lads discussing what needs to change for Everton to arrest some worrying results at home. And in the final part of the podcast, they look back on Farhad Moshiri's time at the club as he prepares to reach his fifth anniversary. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
26/02/21·55m 19s

Royal Blue: What it means to end Everton's Anfield derby wait for a win, Carlo's tactical masterclass & Pickford proving doubters wrong

The Royal Blue Podcast returns this week to record several 'firsts' live on-air after the stunning win at Liverpool on Saturday. It is the first time Gavin Buckland has been able to talk about an Everton victory at Anfield since the beginning of his podcast career while host Guy Clarke is handed a debut in the hot-seat. Sam Carroll also introduces a noisy washing machine to the podcast for the first time while Adam Jones and Dave Prentice bring some much-needed sanity to the discussion around Carlo Ancelotti, Jordan Pickford, penalties and partying into the night. There is also time to reflect on what it means for Everton's chances of qualifying for Europe while Gavin brings out his official Premier League rulebook to prove referee Chris Kavanagh was correct all along. You can join the Royal Blue Podcast group on Facebook or find Dave, Adam, Gavin, Guy and Sam on Twitter. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22/02/21·47m 46s

Post-Game SPECIAL | Liverpool 0-2 Everton | Blues have new derby heroes - not only Richarlison and Gylfi Sigurdsson

Following Everton's first Anfield derby win since September 1999, we're here with a special Royal Blue post-game offering. The ECHO's Everton reporter Adam Jones reflects on the Blues' historic victory at Anfield, with Richarlison and Gylfi Sigurdsson writing their names into the history books. We also bring you Carlo Ancelotti's post-match press conference following his tactical masterclass as the Blues finally break the hoodoo! Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
20/02/21·12m 38s

Royal Blue: Reflecting on Man City defeat and finding reasons to be quietly confident for the derby

It’s that time again – the Merseyside derby at Anfield. But before getting stuck into the trip across Stanley Park, Phil Kirkbride, Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland examine Everton’s midweek defeat to Manchester City and the reaction to it. But, in the main, the latest Royal Blue podcast focuses on Liverpool v Everton on Saturday night. With no home supporters present, and with Liverpool suffering from poor home form and a lack of fit and available defenders, can Everton supporters be quietly confident about winning at their biggest rivals for the first time since 1999? The panel discuss that as well as the big team selection decisions facing Carlo Ancelotti – including who plays centre-back, whether Allan comes straight back into the side, and whether the Blues boss should go with two up front in an attempt to pressurise Liverpool’s makeshift defence. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
19/02/21·43m 30s

Analysing Everton: Stylistic match-up that provides Blues with chance of a generation to break Anfield hoodoo

Ahead of the Anfield Merseyside derby, Analysing Everton is back after a couple of disappointing results for the Blues. David Hughes is joined by Josh Williams to look through the statistical and analytical data around the Blues’ defeat to Man City before previewing Saturday’s trip to the Reds. Can the Blues end their Anfield hoodoo? Where will the key battles be and how far have Everton come under Carlo Ancelotti in comparison to Marco Silva? Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
18/02/21·45m 17s

Royal Blue: Bramley-Moore dock stadium planning takes next step, Everton's commitment to the community - and that result against Fulham

Everton have taken the next steps in the process to moving to the proposed Bramley-Moore dock development ahead of a planning meeting at Liverpool City Council next week. Following recommendation by the Planning Officer the project is given the green light, Sam Carroll is joined by Adam Jones and Dave Prentice to talk through the significance of the news. As much as the next steps in the process, what the latest developments mean and the work Everton are doing in the community to ensure the project is a success. Plus, the panel get onto the 2-0 defeat to Fulham prior to looking ahead to the week to come with Manchester City and Liverpool up next for Carlo Ancelotti's Blues. You can join the Royal Blue Podcast group on Facebook or follow @Adam_Jones94, @prenno and @SamCarroll0 on Twitter. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15/02/21·39m 29s

Royal Blue: Summing up THAT FA Cup win and previewing the visit of Fulham

The Royal Blue Podcast returns with a nine-goal thriller on the menu as well as encouraging injury news from Carlo Ancelotti. Phil Kirkbride hosts a panel of Dave Prentice, Gavin Buckland and Sam Carroll as the quartet sandwich the incredible FA Cup 5-4 win over Tottenham Hotspur around the other big talking points from Goodison Park. There is also the small matter of the visit of Fulham to Merseyside on Sunday to preview, while a midfield headache and a first start for new signing Joshua King are also discussed. There is confidence in the customary predictions, too, but the FA Cup quarter-final draw with Manchester City is met with a mixed reaction. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/02/21·43m 16s

Royal Blue: Dramatic Manchester United draw, Tom Davies' performance and how important Spurs becomes

Everton secured a 3-3 draw against Manchester United in the most dramatic of fashion on Saturday evening. And our latest podcast panel has recovered just enough to dissect the performance! Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Chris Beesley and Gav Buckland to talk over a brilliant comeback from Carlo Ancelotti's side at Old Trafford. The performances of Tom Davies, Andre Gomes and Robin Olsen come under the microscope - and the lads also look ahead to the FA Cup and a visit of Spurs to Goodison. Would they rather it be away from home? And how important is the FA Cup this term? All that and more is answered... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
08/02/21·49m 37s

Royal Blue: Reliant Robin (Olsen), Ben Godfrey 'surprise' & Old Trafford test looms for Blues

As Everton gear up for a trip to Old Trafford, fresh from victory at Elland Road, the Royal Blue podcast is back. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Sam Carroll and Gav Buckland to discuss the win at Leeds United. The panel discuss how Carlo Ancelotti has got Everton performing so well on the road, Robin Olsen's showing between the sticks in place of the injured Jordan Pickford and how impressive Ben Godfrey has been since his move from Norwich City. Plus we preview Saturday's visit to Old Trafford as the Blues' hopes of a European finish begin to come into focus. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
05/02/21·41m 47s

Royal Blue: Everton January transfer window assessed, 'win-win' Josh King signing & Koeman's comments

A bumper Royal Blue Podcast discusses the closing of the January transfer window, a disappointing defeat to Newcastle United and looking ahead to what could be a crucial week in the season for Everton. Adam Jones hosts while Dave Prentice and Sam Carroll consider the deadline day signing of Josh King, Anthony Gordon heading to Preston North End on loan and why it sets up an intriguing summer transfer window for Marcel Brands and Carlo Ancelotti. Prentice also laments comments made by Ronald Koeman about his old club, while Carroll uses a coincidental set of occurrences - including his nan moving house and Wayne Rooney becoming manager of Derby County - to predict victory at Leeds United. You can join the Royal Blue Podcast group on Facebook or follow @Adam_Jones94, @prenno and @SamCarroll0 on Twitter. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
02/02/21·47m 39s

Royal Blue: Transfer deadline day latest | Perisic & King linked | Tosun, Kenny & Bernard joining Lossl through exit?

The Liverpool ECHO's Everton FC reporter Adam Jones joins Guy Clarke to provide the latest update on Everton's transfer deadline day dealings - including rumours of a move to sign Inter Milan's winger Ivan Perisic and interest in Bournemouth winger Josh King. Plus we discuss the outgoings with Jonas Lossl, Cenk Tosun, Bernard and Jonjoe Kenny all heading for the exit door at Goodison Park. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/02/21·14m 10s

Royal Blue: The brilliance of James Rodriguez, Jordan Pickford's latest blunder and what to expect ahead of transfer deadline day

It's never dull at Goodison and, as ever, the Royal Blue podcast team have plenty to get through in his episode. The panel reflect on the midweek draw with Leicester City, eulogising about the goal from James Rodriguez but agonise over yet another gaffe from Jordan Pickford. Pickford's form - and his future - is up for discussion with host Phil Kirkbride joined by Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland. There is some disagreement over Carlo Ancelotti's tactics in the game, with one saying the Blues boss used his experience well, with another saying he made mistakes. Off the pitch, Cenk Tosun looks like he's going, Bernard could be going but Yannick Bolasie has gone. The panel look back at the Goodison career of Bolasie and debate the impact of the serious knee injury he suffered early in his first season. Plus there are the customary predictions as Everton welcome Newcastle United to Goodison. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
29/01/21·39m 59s

Analysing Everton: Error-prone Pickford analysed, why James Rodriguez doesn’t have to defend and what to expect of Newcastle

Following on from Everton's 1-1 draw with Leicester City at Goodison Park, Analysing Everton is back to have a deep dive into the Blues' recent fortunes. David Hughes and Josh Williams look back, with an analytical and statistical eye on the Blues' draw with the Foxes. What forced Carlo Ancelotti's hand into a defence-first approach? How costly has Jordan Pickford proved to be? And just why James Rodriguez doesn't need to defend. All that - plus a look ahead to the visit of Newcastle United to Goodison on Saturday. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28/01/21·45m 38s

Royal Blue: James Rodriguez runs the show as Carlo Ancelotti hints at Thierry Small future

The Royal Blue Podcast returns to discuss the entertaining 3-0 FA Cup victory over Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park on Sunday. Everton progressed to the fifth round thanks to goals from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Richarlison and Yerry Mina as host Sam Carroll listens in on Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Gavin Buckland waxing lyrical over the performance of James Rodriguez. Rodriguez and his technical abilities are praised while there is a special nod to Carlo Ancelotti for his handling of Thierry Small, who became the youngest-ever player to represent the first-team when he made his debut at the weekend. The panel also previewed the crucial midweek visit of Leicester City which could shape the rest of the campaign for Everton in their hunt for European football. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
25/01/21·46m 15s

Royal Blue: DCL's back with a chance to get back in the goals - and is the FA Cup the top priority for the Blues?

Everton are finally back in action this weekend! Carlo Ancelotti's side will welcome Sheffield Wednesday to Goodison Park on Sunday night in the FA Cup to kick off a run of three matches in a week. But how crucial will these matches be? And where should Everton's priorities lie? The cup or the push for Europe in the Premier League? Our host Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland to also discuss some interesting injury news, including the return of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and how strongly the Blues should line-up against the Championship Owls. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22/01/21·40m 30s

Royal Blue: Champions League hopes, January transfer plans and should Everton send Ellis Simms out on loan?

Everton might not have been in action at the weekend but our latest Royal Blue podcast is still full of talking points. Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland to discuss the club's ambitions for the rest of the season after a fantastic start under Carlo Ancelotti. Should the Blues be listening to the views of certain pundits at the weekend, and do they need the addition of quality in January to try and capitalise on their current position? The panel also look at a 1-1 draw in the mini-derby on Monday night and discuss the birthday of an Everton legend earlier in the week! Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
19/01/21·50m 38s

Everton set to pocket one of biggest fees seen in women's game with Damaris Egurrola sale | And all change across the park

Everton Women are set to pocket one of the biggest transfer fees seen in the women’s game after French giants Lyon triggered the £100,000 release cause in Damaris Egurrola’s contract. So for this special podcast focusing on women’s football on Merseyside, the Liverpool ECHO’s Sam Carroll is joined by broadcaster Sarah Halpin, who works closely with the Blues, Emma Sanders of BBC Sport, and Kathryn Batte of the Daily Mail to discuss the huge deal and what it will mean for manager Willie Kirk. The panel also look across the park to Liverpool Women, who are starting the search for a new manager after Vicky Jepson left by mutual consent this week after 12 years at the club. And the podcast rounds off by previewing big games this weekend for both Everton and Liverpool. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
16/01/21·36m 59s

Royal Blue: Marcel Brands AGM comments, Ben Godfrey's growing reputation & the great gherkin debate...

No game to preview but no bother for the Royal Blue podcast panel as they have plenty to get their teeth stuck into today. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland as they look back on a top four-boosting win over Wolves, discuss Marcel Brands' comments from the General Meeting and ask if it's time to reconsider what Everton's strongest starting XI is? The versatility - and durability - of Lucas Digne is hailed as the Royal Blue crew wax lyrical about James Rodriguez and a system that was made for him. Brands says he does not expect Everrton to sign any players this month but, instead, focus on offloading some and the lads discuss whether we should take the director of football's words at face value or still hold out hope for arrivals? Ben Godfrey also comes in for praise and it is discussed if he would now have to be considered as part of Everton's strongest XI, when everyone is fit and available. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15/01/21·41m 22s

Analysing Everton: Blues defying the data as Davide Ancelotti’s set-piece revolution & Carlo’s defensive reset pay dividends

Following Everton’s 2-1 away win over Wolves, Analysing Everton is back for the first episode of 2021. David Hughes and Josh Williams are here to look through the statistical and analytical data to examine what has been behind the Blues strong recent form. From set-piece efficiency and the ‘reset’ defensively the guys look at how Everton have defied the data to win five of the last six in the Premier League. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/01/21·51m 0s

Royal Blue: Rotherham win, Cenk Tosun importance and how Everton should approach Wolves game

The Royal Blue podcast is back to discuss what has been a hectic few days for Everton. The Blues confirmed their place in the fourth round of the FA Cup, just about, after an extra time victory over Rotherham United at Goodison Park. But there was little chance to celebrate as Carlo Ancelotti's side are back in action against Wolves on Tuesday - with Dominic Calvert-Lewin ruled out through injury. Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Chris Beesley and Connor O'Neill to discuss the importance of Cenk Tosun after his goalscoring outing, the worries surrounding Everton's midfield and the delight of seeing Lucas Digne back in action. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/01/21·46m 44s

Marine v Tottenham Hotspur FA Cup Preview: Non-League Merseyside heroes set for biggest game in their history

Join Guy Clarke and Sam Carroll for a special podcast ahead of non-league Marine’s huge FA Cup tie at home to Tottenham Hotspur. Celebrating the Mariners’ historic run to the third round, as well as previewing the big match itself, which will be shown live on BBC One on Sunday (5pm kick-off), Guy and Sam speak to the club’s manager Neil Young, who has been balancing his job at Merseyrail with masterminding how to get the better of Jose Mourinho’s Spurs, who are an incredible 160 places higher up the football pyramid. Neil discusses Marine’s innovate approach to sponsorship and virtual ticketing, after the hammer blow of no fans being allowed to watch the biggest game in the club’s history, just what it will be like to go up against Mourinho in the dugout, and just how difficult Covid-19 has made everything. Good luck Marine – Royal Blue and Evertonians will be rooting for you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/01/21·36m 20s

Royal Blue: Lucas Digne’s speedy return, Cenk Tosun’s last chance, keep or sell Bernard, and what to make of Robin Olsen

Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland join host Phil Kirkbride for the Royal Blue podcast as they welcome the speedy return of Lucas Digne and wonder, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin one of a number of players rested for Saturday’s FA Cup clash with Rotherham United, whether Cenk Tosun can save an Everton career that could come to an end this month. Speculation also surrounds the future of Roma-target Bernard, so the panel discuss Everton's Brazilian midfielder, as well as their on-loan Roma goalkeeper Robin Olsen, with rumours suggesting the two players could make a permanent switch in the opposite directions. Also up for discussion is the spiralling coronavirus outbreaks in football squads across the country before the podcast ends on a happier note with a very confident predictions round. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
08/01/21·45m 12s

Royal Blue: Everton, Moise Kean transfer question and laughable Chris Sutton claims

The Royal Blue Podcast returns for the first time in 2021 to discuss the defeat to West Ham United, Richarlison, Moise Kean, Gylfi Sigurdsson and the bizarre claims of Chris Sutton. Host Sam Carroll is joined by Dave Prentice, Gavin Buckland and Connor O'Neill as they reflect on a 'night to forget' at Goodison Park on New Year's Day as David Moyes spoiled the festivities. Sutton accused Calvert-Lewin of diving to win a penalty against West Ham but his theory is rubbished as 'laughable' by the panel while they make judgement calls on Moise Kean and his future - after a reported £31m PSG bid - and whether Gylfi Sigurdsson deserves a new contract. You can join the Royal Blue Podcast group on Facebook or message @SamCarroll0 on Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/01/21·45m 48s

Royal Blue: Man City postponement debate and Everton's win over Sheffield United dissected

There should have been two matches to discuss on this podcast, but a late postponement meant Everton's clash with Man City on Monday evening was called off. The Blues are asking for full information from the Premier League in the wake of the incident, and it's caused a lot of debate over the last few hours. Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Sam Carroll and Connor O'Neill to look at how things should have been decided - and how annoyed Everton should really be at the whole situation. The panel also looks back on yet another win for the Blues, with Carlo Ancelotti's side battling to a 1-0 victory over Sheffield United on Boxing Day. What a December Everton managed in the end! Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
29/12/20·40m 31s

Royal Blue: Another League Cup chance wasted, Gomes concerns, and bouncing back against the Blades

This is not the podcast we wanted to record but record it we must as Dave Prentice, Connor O’Neill and Gavin Buckland join host Sam Carroll to pick the bones out of last night’s 2-0 Carabao Cup quarter-final defeat to Manchester United at Goodison Park. From Everton’s start to the match to the difference in quality between the respective squads, and from the performance of the officials to concerns over Andre Gomes, it’s all here in detail as the panel look back over another chance of League Cup glory wasted. But it’s Christmas Eve, so let’s end on a positive note, and the little fact of the matter that the Blues could go as high as second in the Premier League with victory at struggling Sheffield United on Boxing Day. Prenno, Connor, Gav and Sam preview that game, and wonder what changes Carlo Ancelotti can make, as well as giving their usual score predictions. Thanks for listening - and all the best for Christmas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
24/12/20·32m 35s

Royal Blue: Huge Goodison night on horizon as buoyant Blues switch sights from top four to silverware

Welcome to the latest Royal Blue podcast as stand-in host Paul Wheelock is joined by David Prentice, Chris Beesley and Connor O’Neill to look back on Saturday’s 2-1 win over Arsenal that hauled Carlo Ancelotti’s in-form side up to second for the night – and to look ahead to Wednesday’s massive Carabao Cup quarter-final clash at home to Manchester United. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21/12/20·40m 5s

Royal Blue: Doucoure’s opportunity, goalkeeper rotation and one year of Carlo as Blues boss

Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Sam Carroll and Gavin Buckland for the latest Royal Blue podcast as they look back on the superb 2-0 win at Leicester City and look forward to Saturday night’s visit of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal to Goodison Park. They also review some of the big talking points of Carlo Ancelotti’s press conference from earlier in the afternoon including the Blues boss's comments on Abdoulaye Doucoure and the rotation of his goalkeepers, Jordan Pickford and Robin Olsen. And, before giving their usual score predictions, the panel assess Ancelotti’s first 12 months in charge ahead of his first anniversary as Everton manager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
18/12/20·50m 38s

Royal Blue: Blues back to winning ways as Ben Godfrey and Co see off Chelsea in front of 2,000 returning fans at Goodison

The Royal Blue Podcast is back! And with smiles on the faces of the panel, too. Host Sam Carroll is joined by Dave Prentice and Paul Wheelock to discuss the victory over Chelsea on Saturday, a victory made sweeter by the return of 2,000 Evertonians to Goodison Park. The impact the crowd had on proceedings is discussed as well as the performances of Ben Godfrey, Richarlison, as well as Dominic Calvert-Lewin, with the panel attempting to identify the game in which Carlo Ancelotti could choose to rest his star striker. With a trip to Leicester City also on the horizon, the latest episode of the podcast previews what could be an important game in the Premier League race for Europe. There is also time spent considering the future of Jonjoe Kenny and whether Niels Nkounkou could leave on loan in January. Enjoy the podcast? You can join the Royal Blue Podcast group on Facebook or message @SamCarroll0, @prenno and @PaulWheelock on Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/12/20·36m 24s

Royal Blue: James Rodriguez out of Chelsea visit | Does Jonjoe Kenny have an Everton future? | Fans returning to Goodison

Ahead of the return of fans to Goodison Park, the Royal Blue podcast is here to look ahead to Saturday's visit of Chelsea. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones, Dave Prentice - and latterly Gav Buckland to get into all the big talking points. From the team news, with James Rodriguez missing through injury, to the lack of opportunity for Jonjoe Kenny and Niels Nkounkou the panel discuss whether or not Kenny has a long-term future at the club. Plus, we touch on the fans returning with 2,000 heading back to Goodison for the first time since March. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/12/20·47m 42s

Analysing Everton: Square pegs, lack of versatility and underlying numbers behind Everton's inconsistencies

After a couple of weeks away, Analysing Everton is back! Join David Hughes and Josh Williams as they look into the underlying numbers of Everton's recent run of form, discuss the selection choices available to Carlo Ancelotti and the impact of the squad profile. Centre to the discussion on formations and options is Fabian Delph, who continues to be beset by injury during his Blues career after coming off in the 1-1 draw with Burnley last time out. How Ancelotti dealt with Richarlison's absence is also analysed so too the changes of formation and personnel in defence. Plus the guys preview the weekend's action with title challengers Chelsea as they prepare to visit Goodison Park with fans returning for the first time since March. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/12/20·44m 48s

Royal Blue: Everton's disappointing Burnley result in context and James Rodriguez's performance assessed

Our Royal Blue podcast panel are back to discuss Everton's 1-1 draw with Burnley at Turf Moor.Host Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Connor O'Neill and Gav Buckland to analyse what was a rather disappointing result for Carlo Ancelotti's side. Three-at-the-back was preferred again and showed more issues, the Blues were left to rue a late missed chance - but there were some important highlights to note. The panel also discuss the performance of James Rodriguez after some "interesting" comments in the national media about the playmaker... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/12/20·39m 7s

Royal Blue: Calvert-Lewin, Digne, Holgate, Richarlison - who will be your Everton Fans' Footballer of the Year?

The Liverpool ECHO and the Royal Blue podcast is today helping launch the inaugural Fans’ Footballer of the Year awards. As well as the main award, there is a ‘club’ award for each of the 20 Premier League outfits. Four Blues players are in the running for the Everton award – Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Lucas Digne, Mason Holgate and Richarlison. The quartet were selected by the Liverpool ECHO’s EFC correspondent Phil Kirkbride – and supporters can now vote for the winner at www.fansfootballeroftheyear.co.uk. And, to celebrate the launch of the awards, Phil is joined by his ECHO colleagues, and fellow Royal Blue regulars, Sam Carroll and Connor O’Neill for this special podcast to ask who, out of Calvert-Lewin, Digne, Holgate and Richarlison, should triumph, and which players they expect to have a big 2021.Blues supporters have until Thursday, December 17 to vote at www.fansfootballeroftheyear.co.uk. The winner of the Liverpool ECHO's Everton Fans' Footballer of the Year 2020 will be revealed on Monday, December 21. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/12/20·15m 59s

Royal Blue: Carlo Ancelotti out to get Everton back on track at Burnley and what will he be shopping for in the winter transfer window?

The Royal Blue Podcast returns to discuss a trip to Burnley that has taken on increased significance for Carlo Ancelotti and Everton. The Blues have lost four of their last five Premier League matches and Phil Kirkbride and his panel attempt to explore what has gone wrong since the early-season and where the fix will come from. Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Sam Carroll talk formation, team selection and the January transfer window as the need for reinforcements is highlighted. The future of Cenk Tosun is also contemplated by Prentice after Ancelotti praised the Turkish striker in his press conference on Friday afternoon; while the customary predictions at the end of the show suggest a confidence that Everton will return to winning ways at Turf Moor in the early kick-off on Saturday. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/12/20·42m 20s

View from the Gwladys Street: Ancelotti tinkering needs to stop as Richarlison silences Carragher

Everton now looking back at a fourth defeat in five games with the likes of Burnley, Chelsea, Arsenal and Leicester to come in the league over the festive period. Leeds United came to Goodison Park on Saturday full of life, full of vigour, full of energy, attributes which Everton lacked. Defensive issues reared their ugly head yet again, with Ancelotti’s men left exposed countless times. Everton’s defensive issues are no secret, but against Leeds that was the worst defensive display to date.To discuss, debate and analyse Saturday’s performance, host Ian Croll is joined by Rob Astell and local up and coming musician Mason Owens. With Burnley to come on Saturday, the lads also discuss what Ancelotti can do in order to bring balance back to the team but more importantly, pick up three vital points. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/12/20·28m 17s

Royal Blue: Wing-back worries, a new role for Allan and Everton's loss to Leeds discussed

What a crazy game it was on Saturday night. Leeds came out 1-0 winners against Everton at Goodison Park in a match of fine margins, missed chances, disallowed goals - but ultimately disappointment for the Blues. Carlo Ancelotti stuck with his three-man defence, but his team selection certainly raised eyebrows. Was it the right decision? Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Chris Beesley and Gav Buckland to discuss exactly that. The panel also talk about James Rodriguez, chances for youngsters over the next few weeks, and seeing a new side of Allan. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30/11/20·41m 58s

Royal Blue: How to deal with Digne absence, fans set for return to Goodison & what to expect of Bielsa's Leeds

Ahead of Everton taking on Leeds United on Saturday evening, the Royal Blue podcast have a number of key talking points to get into as Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland. First up on the agenda is the injury to Lucas Digne with the Frenchman expected to be out for up to three months. Marcel Brands' future is also up for discussion along with the potential return of fans to Goodison Park. Ahead of Saturday's visit of Leeds the panel also have their say on Marcelo Bielsa's side before ending with their usual predictions. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
27/11/20·41m 54s

View from the Gwladys Street: Iwobi consistency, Rodriguez expectations, January transfers & Olsen mind games

The View from the Gwladys Street podcast returns this week and so too did Everton’s winning form after a 3-2 win over Fulham at Craven Cottage. Host Ian Croll is joined by Connor Bennett and Ben Crawford for this week’s show. It’s a jam packed agenda as the lads look back at the Fulham victory, preview the up and coming Leeds game as well as touch upon individual performances of Richarlison, Calvert-Lewin, Rodriguez, Doucoure and Iwobi. There is lots to talk about as ever with additional discussion on Robin Olsen’s Pickford ‘mind games’ and the latest opinion on Everton’s potential business in the January transfer window. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
25/11/20·1h 5m

Royal Blue: Richarlison return, formation change and room for improvement as Everton return to winning ways

Everton finally got back to winning ways on Sunday....just about. A Dominic Calvert-Lewin double and an Abdoulaye Doucoure header were enough to secure a 3-2 win over Fulham after what was an extremely nervy second half. There were a good number of positives to take from the match but still clear room for improvement, making for some interesting conversation. Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Gav Buckland and Connor O'Neill to discuss Everton's formation change, defensive issues, Richarlison's return and Dominic Calvert-Lewin's incredible scoring run. Lots for the lads to talk about as ever! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
23/11/20·37m 17s

Royal Blue: Five substitute discussion, Ancelotti's Isco comments and build-up to Everton's Fulham clash

Finally we're ready to welcome Everton back this weekend! The final international break of 2020 is done with and the focus can be back on club football right up until March. For Carlo Ancelotti's side, that means a trip to face Fulham at Craven Cottage this weekend, with Richarlison back involved and some positive injury news elsewhere. Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones and Gav Buckland to discuss whether Everton can back to winning ways and if the potential of a five-substitute rule could benefit the Blues at all. And, of course, there's more chat about Isco after the manager's latest comments... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
20/11/20·40m 55s

Royal Blue: International break injury, formation dilemma and your Everton questions answered

Everton news is right at the top of the agenda for our podcast panel even during the doldrums of another international break! Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Connor O'Neill and Gav Buckland to discuss all the latest updates around Goodison Park during what has already been an interesting week. The panel are on hand to answer fan-submitted questions on the need for the international break after a particular Everton injury, formation concerns for Carlo Ancelotti and who the club's main penalty taker should now be. It's an interesting listen as ever! Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13/11/20·36m 52s

View From The Gwladys Street: Rodriguez central role a must, the Gordon question and the Ancelotti concern

No win in four. Defeats in the last three. Nine goals conceded in four games. Key players injured or suspended. From first to seventh in less than a month. It’s been quite a painful few weeks. Host Ian Croll is joined by Mark Crotty and Neil Leahey for this week’s View from the Glwadys Street fan podcast to pick through the wreckage of the last four games. The Manchester United defeat is high on the agenda but the talk turns to more than that and how the Blues have ended up in this mini slump. Decisions from Ancelotti have come into question. With key players missing he’s unfortunately had to work with what he’s got, but could he have done more? The balance of the squad comes into question as the lads discuss and debate which formation currently suits the players Ancelotti has at his disposal. As with every fan podcast, the lads finish off with a positive despite what has been a torrid few weeks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/11/20·53m 55s

Royal Blue: Defensive problems, midfield dilemma and Everton's loss to Manchester United discussed

Everton unfortunately fell to their third straight defeat on Saturday afternoon with a 3-1 loss to Manchester United. A Bruno Fernandes double and a late Edinson Cavani strike gave Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side all three points against a lacklustre Blues, who had initially taken the lead through Bernard. Carlo Ancelotti had key players back for the game, so what went wrong? Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Gav Buckland and Connor O'Neill to discuss defensive issues, a potential midfield dilemma, fitness concerns and another example of the treatment of Jordan Pickford. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/11/20·36m 55s

Royal Blue: Isco to help lighten load on James? And has Carlo got goalkeeping call correct?

James Rodriguez, Seamus Coleman, Lucas Digne and Mason Holgate... Everton will be boosted by the return of four key players for tomorrow's visit of Manchester United to Goodison Park. But with Carlo Ancelotti admitting at his pre-match press conference that Rodriguez is not fully fit, the Royal Blue podcast wonder whether that underlines just how important the Colombian has already become to Everton? And if he has, do the Blues need more players of Rodriguez's calibre? That leads host Phil Kirkbride and regular guests Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland to discussing the merits of a move for another Real Madrid midfielder, Isco. Talk then turns to United and their under-pressure manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer before the podcast ends with a discussion about Ancelotti's decision to recall Jordan Pickford, plus the usual predicitions. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
06/11/20·39m 32s

Analysing Everton: Newcastle dissected, United previewed and what Andre Gomes needs to bring the best out of him

The Analysing Everton podcast is back to dissect the disappointing defeat at Newcastle United and ask whether it answered the question that, beyond Carlo Ancelotti’s exciting first-choice starting XI, has he got the strength in depth needed for a push for the top six? One player who Evertonians would have expected to be a regular in Ancelotti’s starting line-up is Andre Gomes. But the Portuguese’s struggles continued at St James’ Park leading our hosts David Hughes and Josh Williams to examine just exactly what he brings to the team and what his best role is. But while Gomes and his team-mates did not do themselves justice for the second match running, did Ancelotti make a rare misstep with his selection and formation? David and Josh talk that then focus on the performance of debutant goalkeeper Robin Olsen, before turning their attention to Saturday’s visit to Goodison Park of Manchester United, whose performance numbers should give the Blues encouragement that they can return to winning ways. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
05/11/20·59m 41s

View from the Gwladys: Baffling team selection, Pickford omission & the Gomes concern

Everton lost back to back Premier League matches for the first time under Carlo Ancelotti after being beated 2-1 by Newcastle on Sunday. The Blues were looking for a quick bounce back after their loss to Southampton however it wasn’t to be as a second half double from Callum Wilson was enough to secure the win for Steve Bruce’s side. Joining host Ian Croll to talk through the monstrosity that was Sunday afternoon is Rob Astell, John Howard and Matthew Barry. The lads discuss the Pickford omission, the Andre Gomes problem and try to figure out how Carlo Ancelotti got it so wrong against the Magpies. Despite defeat the lads look at the positives with key personnel yet to return and a big game against Manchester United up next to get the ball rolling again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/11/20·52m 26s

Royal Blue: Changing formations, Robin Olsen and Everton's loss to Newcastle dissected

Everton suffered back-to-back league defeats for the first time under Carlo Ancelotti with a 2-1 loss at Newcastle United on Sunday. A much-changed Blues line-up caught the eye of many before the match, but couldn't produce the necessary performance on the pitch. A double from Callum Wilson was enough to cancel out Dominic Calvert-Lewin's late strike, with Ancelotti's side struggling to create throughout. That left a lot for our panel to discuss. Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Gav Buckland and Chris Beesley to talk over Everton's formation change, how Robin Olsen's debut affects Jordan Pickford and the defensive frailties on display for the Blues. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
02/11/20·39m 56s

Royal Blue: A Grand Old Team To Report | Special | Dave Prentice on 45 years following Everton Football Club

Following on from the launch of his book: A Grand Old Team To Report, Dave Prentice sits down with Phil Kirkbride and Adam Jones for a special offering from the Royal Blue podcast. The guys look through some of the highlights of the book, including the controversial sale of star striker Duncan Ferguson to Newcastle United under the nose of Walter Smith, plus Prenno's rapport with David Moyes and a number of other high profile characters during his time reporting on the Blues. The guys talk through Prenno's career covering Everton, the access to players and being involved in pre-season tours - as well as a couple of tales having gone out socialising with the players during the 90s.For 40% off and to get your copy of A Grand Old Team To Report, head to the Reach Sport bookshop by following this link: https://reachsportshop.com/book/a-grand-old-team-to-report-45-years-following-everton-football-club/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
31/10/20·32m 6s

Royal Blue: Shapes and systems | Nkounkou's chance to impress | Women looking to lead the way to cup success

Ahead of Everton's visit to Newcastle United we talk team news, formations and fringe players looking to impress for Carlo Ancelotti. Prior to Sunday's game, Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice and Adam Jones to react to Carlo Ancelotti's press conference, preview the game with the Magpies and discuss Everton Women's FA Cup Final with Manchester City, which also takes place on Sunday. With James Rodriguez ruled out of contention for Sunday's visit to St. James' Park, the panel look at what options are open to Ancelotti, including a change of formation which may suit Niels Nkounkou with the Frenchman set to start in place of Lucas Digne. Plus, with the Women's Cup final set to take place on Sunday, the guys also look at Alisher Usmanov's latest sponsorship involvement. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30/10/20·29m 0s

Analysing Everton: Underlying numbers give Blues reason for cheer | How Newcastle are breaking xG model and why Everton should be prepared

After the Blues suffered their first defeat of the season, Analysing Everton is back to look over the result against Southampton, why things went as they did before getting onto the weekend's visit to Newcastle United. Join David Hughes and Josh Williams as they look into Carlo Ancelotti's Alex Iwobi 'test', why he may be better suited elsewhere in the Everton system and how much Richarlison was missed. Moving on, Dave explores the underlying numbers after the first six games of the new season to get a grasp of where the Blues' season is heading. Plus the guys preview the weekend's game with Newcastle and look into why they over-perform their xG and why Everton must be wary. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
29/10/20·55m 23s

View from the Gwladys: Southampton, Digne, Iwobi & clean sheet woes

In this week’s View from the Gwladys Street podcast, Ian Croll is joined by Tom Clarke from the Toffee Blues and Graham Callaghan. The Toffees' unbeaten start to the season came to a crushing end at the hands of Southampton with a 2-0 defeat. Disappointing to say the least but we must remember Carlo Ancelotti’s men sit top of the table after a strong start to the campaign. Everton not only had to contend with defeat but yet another straight red card was handed out to Lucas Digne – a decision which caused plenty of debate. James Rodriguez, who didn’t have his best game for the Blues, was seen clutching his hamstring as well. Certainly not how Everton wanted to spend their Sunday afternoon down South, but with Newcastle up next, the players must now regain their focus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
27/10/20·28m 0s

Royal Blue: Digne's red card and poor individual performances can't overshadow strong Everton start

Unfortunately, Everton were dealt their first defeat of the season this weekend. Southampton came away with a 2-0 win from the Blues' latest match, with things compounded in the second half by Lucas Digne's controversial red card. But, our Royal Blue podcast panel weren't about to let one bad day at the office get them down about Everton's beginning to the season. Adam Jones was joined by Sam Carroll, Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland to discuss the defeat to Southampton, Carlo Ancelotti's problems in replacing both Richarlison and Seamus Coleman, and why Digne shouldn't have been sent off. And, the lads end on a positive, upbeat note - which is worth sticking around for! Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
26/10/20·41m 19s

Analysing Everton: Pickford, Rodriguez, DCL, Gomes and the derby dissected | What Carlo should do for St Mary’s ‘acid test’

David Hughes and Josh Williams return for the latest instalment of their Analysing Everton tactics podcast – and they start by taking a deep dive into the 2-2 Merseyside derby draw with Liverpool at Goodison Park last weekend. Steering clear of the controversy surrounding you know what, our hosts analyse the performances in particular of Jordan Pickford, James Rodriguez and Andre Gomes, while paying aCristiano Ronaldo-sized compliment to the on-fire Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Talk then turns to Sunday’s trip to Southampton where Everton will be without Seamus Coleman, Richarlison and possibly Rodriguez, too, although the latter’s chances of playing have improved since this podcast was recorded on Friday morning. Shorn of at least two of his key men, should Carlo Ancelotti stick with the formation that has taken the Blues to the top of the Premier League or should he mix it up? And who will come in for Richarlison and – hopefully not – Rodriguez? That’s all discussed in an Everton must-listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
24/10/20·1h

Royal Blue: Carlo's 'cute' James play to take spotlight off Pickford but has he made the right call for Southampton?

Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland for the Friday edition of the Royal Blue podcast and they start by discussing the big news from Carlo Ancelotti’s press conference that James Rodriguez could actually be fit for Sunday’s trip to Southampton after all. Earlier in the week Everton boss Ancelotti had cast doubt on the Colombian’s chances of featuring at St Mary’s. So in retrospect was it all a clever ploy from the wily Italian to take some of the spotlight away from Jordan Pickford? The Blues goalkeeper has come in for all sorts of criticism following his challenge on Virgil van Dijk in the Merseyside derby. But has the reaction, both on social media and in the mainstream media, gone way over the top? The panel discuss that as well as Ancelotti’s decision to keep faith with his under-fire number one for the clash with Southampton. There’s also talk and condemnation of plans for a European Premier League and praise for the incredible work Manchester Untied striker Marcus Rashford is doing to ensure children have access to free school meals over half-term. Plus there’s a quick plug for Prenno’s brilliant new Everton book, which you can order by clicking on the link below, and which we’ll soon be focusing on in a special podcast. Have a good weekend, Blues! https://reachsportshop.com/book/a-grand-old-team-to-report-45-years-following-everton-football-club/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
23/10/20·47m 59s

Royal Blue: Jordan Pickford's challenge, the reaction to it, and paying tribute to Lucas Digne, the league's best left-back

So... another eventual Merseyside derby, then. But before getting stuck into the subject that has dominated the agenda in the 48 hours since the 2-2 draw at Goodison Park, Adam Jones, Dave Prentice, Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland kick off the latest Royal Blue podcast by actually discussing Everton's performance. Talk then, inevitably, turns to Jordan Pickford's challenge on Virgil van Dijk, and the reaction to it in the traditional media and on social media. The other flashpoints of the game are also examined, including Richarlison's sending-off, while there is praise for debutant Ben Godfrey, and particularly for Lucas Digne, whose pinpoint cross was headed in by the on-fire Dominic Calvert-Lewin to ensure the Blues of the point that kept them top of the Premier League table. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
19/10/20·41m 56s

Analysing Everton: Everton vs Liverpool Preview | The James Rodriguez play that the Red side fear

It’s a special joint edition of the Liverpool ECHO’s Analysing Everton and Analysing Anfield podcasts as we preview Saturday’s Everton v Liverpool Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. In the blue corner we have David Hughes, and in the red corner we have Josh Williams, but despite their allegiances, they remain as objective as ever as they pick apart what could be the most intriguing derby in years. Everton will go into the 12.30pm kick-off riding high at the top of the Premier League while Liverpool will make the short trip across Stanley Park with tails between their legs after the heavy defeat at Aston Villa before the international break. Surely, then, Carlo Ancelotti will instruct his side to take the game to the defending champions? David and Josh discuss that, and use the underlying statistics to explain why this is a true battle of the best two teams in the country on form at the moment, before turning their thoughts to which areas both the Blues and the Reds will look to exploit. There’s a special look at the respective under-fire goalkeepers, Jordan Pickford and Adrian, and why their performances could be the deciding factors in the game, and there’s also analysis of James Rodriguez’s influence and why Jurgen Klopp should throw Thiago Alcantara straight in at the deep end. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
16/10/20·1h 1m

Royal Blue: Cautious optimism the order of the day as Everton look to end derby wait

It's the night before the Merseyside derby between Premier League leaders Everton and defending champions Liverpool at Goodison Park - and the Royal Blue podcast, hosted by Phil Kirkbride and featuring Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland, is here to discuss all the big pre-match talking points. From the feelings in the fan base to Jordan Pickford, and Carlo Ancelotti's approach and mentality to just what a long-awaited victory would do for the whole club, it's a must-listen. Prenno even promises Adam a bottle of bubbly if his score prediction comes in. We'll drink to that! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
16/10/20·47m 18s

View from the Gwladys Street: The Merseyside derby preview – assessing the season so far

The View from the Gwladys Street podcast returns to the Royal Blue airwaves for the first time in a long time and after a two week international break Everton return to action on Saturday against the old enemy. Liverpool make the short journey across Stanley Park to face the table topping Toffees in an eagerly anticipated match. To preview this weekend’s encounter, Ian Croll, Rob Astell, Connor Bennett and Mark Crotty take the hot seats in the first Everton fan podcast on the Royal Blue channel since March. There’s plenty on the agenda to get through with the assessment of the season so far, derby day nerves and predictions, as well as what Carlo Ancelotti’s men can achieve come the end of the season. The lads also comment on the breaking news surrounding ‘Project Big Picture’. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/10/20·55m 47s

Royal Blue: Moise Kean, Cenk Tosun, Bernard and the Everton transfer questions that are yet to be answered

Everton’s transfer business continues to dominate the second Royal Blue podcast of the week as Phil Kirkbride is joined by Gavin Buckland and Paul Wheelock. Top of the agenda is Moise Kean and whether his loan move to Paris Saint-Germain is a precursor to a permanent exit from Goodison Park. Unless the Blues sign a replacement for Kean before the domestic transfer closes next week, the returning Cenk Tosun will act as under-study to the on-fire Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Are you happy with that? And could Tosun actually thrive at long last in the new-look Everton set-up? Talk then turns to Bernard, and those links to Roma, plus whether Carlo Ancelotti and Marcel Brands will and should look to buy again when the January transfer window opens. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/10/20·33m 52s

Royal Blue: Robin Olsen arrival and what it means for Jordan Pickford | And should Everton move for Josh King after striker exits?

After another three points, and after another two new signings, the Royal Blue podcast is back! Robin Olsen followed the expected arrival of defender Ben Godfrey on transfer deadline day and host Sam Carroll, Adam Jones (after a marathon shift!), David Prentice and Paul Wheelock discuss the loan deal for the Sweden international goalkeeper and what it means for Jordan Pickford, whose critics grew louder after an error led to a Brighton goal in Saturday’s 4-2 win at Goodison Park. The panel also discuss the Everton careers of Sandro Ramirez and Theo Walcott, who have now played their last games for the club after departing on Monday. Their exits followed that of Moise Kean, and in an otherwise impressive recruitment plan, have they left Carlo Ancelotti short up front? If they have, is the answer signing Bournemouth’s Josh King before the domestic transfer window shuts? We discuss that, plus lots more. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
06/10/20·36m 56s

Royal Blue: Everton's Ben Godfrey pursuit, DCL's England call-up & Carlo planning to clip to Seagulls' wings as Blues aim for seven in a row

It's been another hectic week for Everton! The Blues continued their brilliant start to the season with a win over West Ham to progress to the quarter-final of the Carabao Cup, while the club's women's side booked their place in the Women's FA Cup final with a win over Birmingham City! Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Gav Buckland, Sam Carroll and Adam Jones to look back on those performances and the injuries to Allan and Richarlison in particular that might cause some debate ahead of the visit of Brighton this weekend. Of course, there is the matter of transfer rumours to discuss as well with a deal for Ben Godfrey edging closer, while Yannick Bolasie's future was also part of the conversation. Another lively podcast to round off a similarly busy week for the Blues! Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
02/10/20·44m 57s

Analysing Everton: Dominic Calvert-Lewin's 'monster' season & how underlying numbers show it isn't all-out attack for new-look Blues

Dominic Calvert-Lewin's second hat-trick of the season ensured Everton made it through to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals following the 4-1 victory over West Ham United at Goodison Park. Reacting to the win over the Hammers, the Blues' fast-start to the new Premier League campaign, and digging deep into the numbers behind DCL's blistering form, David Hughes and Josh Williams are here with the latest edition of Analysing Everton. The guys also look into the underlying numbers and suggest there's reason to stay optimistic with Carlo Ancelotti's side's encouraging defensive statistics as well as what is happening at the top end of the pitch. Plus, they preview the weekend's visit of Brighton and Hove Albion from a statistical and tactical point of view, assessing what threats Graham Potter's side may cause. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/10/20·53m 56s

Royal Blue: Top of the league then top of the charts... what a weekend to be an Evertonian!

Top of the league then top of the charts! And throw in an incredible FA Women’s Cup success, too, and it really was a weekend to remember for everyone involved with Everton Football Club. Little wonder, then, that the latest Royal Blue podcast is even more ebullient than the last one. But there’s only place host Adam Jones and guests Chris Beesley, Sam Carroll, David Prentice and Gavin Buckland can start... and that’s Evertonians getting ‘Spirit of the Blues’ above Miles Cyrus, Drake and a host of other music superstars to number one in the iTunes charts. Blues downloaded the 35-year-old club anthem in their droves after it was dubbed over the top of social media videos following Everton’s 2-1 win at Crystal Palace which, for a day at the least, took Carlo Ancelotti's transformed team into top spot in the Premier League. Naturally, that win is discussed, with focus on another goal for the red-hot Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and another impressive performance from captain Seamus Coleman, before talk turns to Wednesday’s Carabao Cup tie at home to David Moyes’ West Ham United. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28/09/20·41m 24s

Royal Blue: Pickford, Nkounkou, Gordon and Carlo's ultimatum to his free-scoring strikers

Positivity abounds in the latest Royal Blue podcast as Chris Beesley, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland join Phil Kirkbride to reflect on the 5-2 Carabao Cup win at Fleetwood Town that maintained Everton’s perfect start to the new season. But first up is the need to address the one negative from what was another encouraging evening for Blues – the performance of goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Carlo Ancelotti and Neville Southall have given the England number one their backing, so should everyone else too? And what appears to be Pickford’s biggest problem at the moment? Both questions are discussed and answered before talk turns to three of the best performers at Fleetwood – surprise-package Niels Nkounkou, Bernard, and Anthony Gordon. Moise Kean also had a good night as he made it two goals for the campaign. But why doesn’t he look happy? Carlo won’t be happy if Kean, Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin all meet his goal target, that's for sure, with the panel discussing the manager’s brilliant comments before Saturday’s trip to Crystal Palace – a preview of which rounds off a must-listen podcast. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
25/09/20·46m 34s

Analysing Everton: James Rodriguez, a one-man goal contribution machine | 'New' Everton emerging under Ancelotti

Analysing Everton returns to look back on the Blues' strong start to the new Premier League season, with the wins over Tottenham Hotspur and West Brom. David Hughes and Josh Williams analyse the performances of Carlo Ancelotti's side, how James Rodriguez has changed the dynamic for the Blues in terms of attacking output, as well as the growing influence of Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Plus, are a 'new' Everton emerging having won away to a top-six team as well as coming from behind to beat the Baggies? Plus, the guys look ahead to Saturday's visit to Crystal Palace. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
23/09/20·58m 18s

Royal Blue: James the hero as DCL bags hat-trick against West Brom | And are the Blues set for a Carabao Cup run?

Everton's great start to the season rolls on! The Blues secured their third win in as many matches in all competitions with a 5-2 victory over West Bromwich Albion at Goodison Park on Saturday. Dominic Calvert-Lewin bagged a hat trick while James Rodriguez scored his first goal for the club - and they were just two of the major points for Evertonians to discuss. Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Sam Carroll and debutant Connor O'Neill to scrutinise the club's latest victory and look ahead to a crucial Carabao Cup tie against Fleetwood Town. Stay tuned for an interesting prediction from one panel member to say the very least... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21/09/20·38m 34s

Royal Blue: Niels Nkounkou promise, Moise Kean patience, and did Everton sign James Rodriguez on a free?

Having won both of the opening two games of the season without conceding a goal, join Phil Kirkbride, Adam Jones, Chris Beesley and Paul Wheelock as we look back on a successful start to the new campaign for Carlo Ancelotti's side, who beat Salford City 3-0 in the Carabao Cup at Goodison Park on Wednesday night to follow the 1-0 opening-day Premier League victory at Tottenham Hotspur. The panel discuss the showing against Salford, including analysing the performances of both Moise Kean and debutant Niels Nkounkou. With reports emerging that Everton did not actually pay Real Madrid a free for James Rodriguez, the guys look in more depth into the move, before previewing the weekend's action as Slaven Bilic's West Bromwich Albion head to Goodison. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
18/09/20·42m 17s

Royal Blue: Blues buoyant as Carlo's side make a statement on the opening day

It's a buzzing Royal Blue podcast as Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Gavin Buckland and Paul Wheelock to reflect on Everton's superb 1-0 opening-day victory at Tottenham Hotspur. New boys Allan, James Rodriguez and Abdoulaye Doucoure all come in for special praise, as does the match-winner Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Andre Gomes, as the panel look back on a real statement victory for Carlo Ancelotti's side, before looking ahead to Wednesday's Carabao Cup clash with Salford City, and wondering whether squad rotation should come into force. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/09/20·40m 55s

Royal Blue: The big Everton questions answered on eve of new season as Leighton Baines makes swift return

Just two before Everton kick-start their Premier League season, the Royal Blue podcast is back. And host Phil Kirkbride has a host of questions for Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland to answer, including: What position should Carlo Ancelotti next target to strengthen? Which of Allan, James Rodriguez and Abdoulaye Doucoure will have the biggest impact? And what constitutes a good campaign for the Blues? The panel also reacts to the breaking news that David Unsworth has a new role and that Leighton Baines will be making a quick return to the club that he served so superbly as a player. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/09/20·42m 56s

Analysing Everton: 'Midfield boss' Allan, 'unique' Doucoure and 'elite' Rodriguez | What exciting new trio will bring to the Blues

The Analysing Everton podcast is back! And with the Blues having completed the exciting signings of Allan, James Rodriguez and Abdoulaye Doucoure, it could not be more perfectly timed! David Hughes and Josh Williams look at what the trio will bring to Everton, where they will fit in, and where it leaves the players they are certain to replace in Carlo Ancelotti's starting line-up. Our tactics experts also preview the opening day trip to Tottenham Hotspur, and what Jose Mourinho may have planned, and wonder where Ancelotti's new-look side could finish this season. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/09/20·1h 7m

Royal Blue: Excitement palpable as Everton line-up stunning triple swoop for Allan, Rodriguez and Doucoure

Everton don’t half find a way of pulling you back in. After a demoralising end to last season left fans wondering what the immediate future held, Evertonians are buzzing again at the prospect of what could be a momentous week in the transfer market. And so, too, is the latest Royal Blue podcast, hosted by Sam Carroll, and featuring Dave Prentice and Paul Wheelock, as they react to the news that Everton are lining up an incredible triple swoop for Allan, James Rodriguez and Abdoulaye Doucoure. Our panellists discuss each of the potential signings, wonder how and where they will fit into Carlo Ancelotti’s system, and what benefit they could have to Andre Gomes. Enjoy – and keep your eye on the Liverpool ECHO’s website for the all the latest on the deals to sign Allan, Rodriguez and Doucoure. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/09/20·38m 0s

Royal Blue: The deal with James Rodriguez, a tribute to Gareth Barry, and what do Everton have in store for Leighton Baines?

Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Sam Carroll and Gavin Buckland for the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast, which starts with a look back on the opening pre-season friendly at Blackpool. Do you take Everton's performance with a pinch of salt or do you attribute something more concerning to it? And what should we make of Gylfi Sigurdsson's comments after the match about the position he has operated in under Carlo Ancelotti? Our panel answer those questions and then get stuck into the subject on most Blues fans' lips at the moment - Real Madrid midfielder James Rodiriguez. Should Everton move heaven and earth to get a player Ancelotti clearly wants? And, if they do, which players do they ship out? Especially seeing as the Blues also remain in talks to sign Allan and Abdoulaye Doucouré. Midfield is clearly an area of the field Ancelotti wants to improve, and no doubt the Italian would have liked to have worked with Gareth Barry in his prime. The former Goodison favourite has announced his retirement from football, leading our panel to offer warm tributes to arguably one of the best transfers the club has made in recent years. There's also time to talk what role Everton have in store for Leighton Baines, now that he has also hung up his boots, as well as the new third kit and the latest on the move to Bramley-Moore Dock. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28/08/20·46m 36s

Royal Blue: Gabriel, Doucouré and Allan transfers discussed as pre-season gets under way

With Everton kick-starting their pre-season this weekend, the Royal Blue podcast returns after its own mini summer break. But before Phil Kirkbride, Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland get stuck into Saturday's trip to Blackpool, they talk the big topic among Evertonians at present - transfers, or their lack of them. What we do know is that the Blues have pulled out of a deal for Lille centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes but are pursuing midfielders Abdoulaye Doucouré and Allan from Watford and Napoli respectively. The panel discuss the merits of all that as well as which players could and must go to help fund what would be two big-money moves if they both came off. And there's also time to talk two former Blues, Romelu Lukaku and Ronald Koeman, who have both been in the news this week. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21/08/20·44m 28s

Antonee Robinson on leaving Everton, Wigan Athletic rollercoaster and just how close he came to joining AC Milan

The 2020/21 season has proven to be stranger than fiction for former Everton left-back  Antonee Robinson after joining Wigan Athletic last summer. Just days after suffering relegation with the Latics, the United States international sits down for a candid interview with Theo Squires to share all on a controversial season at the DW Stadium, the lowdown on how a heart problem ended any chance of a dream deadline day move to AC Milan in January, as well as enlightening insight on his Everton exit before looking to the future and his hopes of playing at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. It’s a fascinating listen about a remarkable season so sit back and enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/08/20·23m 3s

Royal Blue: Carlo Ancelotti's Everton re-build & quality over quantity in the transfer market

Just how big is the rebuilding job ahead of Carlo Ancelotti at Everton? The Royal Blue podcast team get their teeth stuck into trying to answer the burning question at Goodison, in today's episode. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland to assess the challenge facing Ancelotti and the worrying trends that emerged from the final part of the season. The panel wonder if the transfer window, with only a handful of signings expected, will provide all of the answers to Everton's problems or, as is more likely, will Ancelotti's coaching acumen be the bigger deciding factor next term. Systems, formations, mindset and the club captaincy are all up for discussion. Enjoy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/08/20·39m 59s

The future of women's football, how it's reported, and Everton's aims for the season

Emma Sanders, Kathryn Batte and Sarah Halpin join Sam Carroll for a special Royal Blue podcast focusing on women's football. Sanders, a reporter for the BBC, features on the panel alongside Daily Mail journalist Batte and Everton Women media maestro Halpin to discuss the challenge of growing the women's game and how clubs can work with the media to allow better coverage. The trio also assess the upcoming season for Everton and Liverpool as well as their route into the media and any advice they may have for aspiring young journalists and broadcasters listening. Everton finished sixth in the Women's Super League under Willie Kirk last season while Liverpool and Vicky Jepson suffered relegation on a points-per-game basis following the early curtailment of the campaign due to coronavirus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
06/08/20·50m 49s

Royal Blue: End of Season awards special & farewell to Leighton Baines

It's end of season review time on the Royal Blue podcast.Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Gav Buckland, Adam Jones and Sam Carroll and asks them to argue their choices in four categories.The panel make their case for Everton's player of the season, goal of the season, performance of the season and disappointment of the season. And in the spirit of debate, discussion and entertainment, the lads were asked to make sure they each chose differently in every category. Let us know if you agree with their picks and, ultimately, which one was deemed the winner. The panel finish by talking about Leighton Baines' decision to retire from football. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
31/07/20·49m 57s

Royal Blue: The players with a point to prove more than most as Carlo Ancelotti's plots his Everton evolution

It's the final Royal Blue preview podcast of the season as host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones, Sam Carroll and Dave Prentice to look ahead to Sunday's final game at home to relegated Bournemouth. After the panel answer Phil's question about important it is to finish such a disappointing campaign on a high, they pick the players who most need to make a point against the Cherries, who must win to stand any chance of staying up. Talk then turns to the message sent by Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti in his pre-match press conference and the need to get any transfer business done early. And, as well as usual (this time wildly positive) score predictions, Phil and Co talk about the two team who have already been promoted to the Premier League and some former Evertonians now plying their trade in the Championship who have not been as fortunate. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
24/07/20·46m 17s

Royal Blue: Andre Gomes, Richarlison, Jarrad Branthwaite and a formation question for Carlo Ancelotti

After four games without a win and four pretty miserable performances, excuse the latest Royal Blue podcast, hosted by Phil Kirkbride and featuring Chris Beesley and Dave Prentice, for being positively upbeat after Carlo Ancelotti’s side returned to winning ways with a well-deserved 1-0 victory over Sheffield United. There is praise for Andre Gomes’ vastly-improved display while there is a question for Blues boss Ancelotti over whether he should stick with the 4-2-3-1 formation given it brought the best out of the Portuguese, along with Gylfi Sigurdsson, who also showed signs of form at Bramall Lane. The match-winner, Richarlison, is also hailed, while Phil surprises Prenno with a stat that he can’t believe but which underlines the Brazilian’s huge potential. The panel also look at the winning goal itself and wonder whether it is the latest example of a marginal gain Everton must make the most of going forward. And of course the podcast cannot fail to mention the composed display of teenager Jarrad Branthwaite. But there are also warm words for Branthwaite’s senior centre-back partner Michael Keane, who since the restart, has certainly grown in stature. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21/07/20·40m 59s

Inside the Everton academy | Highs, lows and memories to last a lifetime

Phil Kirkbride is joined by three former Everton youth-team players for this special Royal Blue podcast – Plymouth Argyle midfielder Conor Grant, Macclesfield Town winger Ben Tollitt, and the Liverpool ECHO’s own Sam Carroll, who pulled on the shirt of his beloved Blues before moving into journalism. The trio talk about how they came to be signed by Everton, and the buzz at achieving what so many young players dream of doing, but also just how hard it is to take the next step in what, at even a young age, is a fiercely competitive environment. There is the disappointment of leaving the Blues, but also great stories of great times, friendships, coaches and parents. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
19/07/20·53m 0s

Royal Blue: Villa woes | Moise Kean conundrum | Hojbjerg the Blues' midfield saviour? | Branthwaite optimism ahead of visit to Blades

It's been another difficult week at Goodison as Everton limp towards the end of the season and the Royal Blue podcast panel are back to try and make sense of it. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Gav Buckland and Adam Jones as they reflect on a 1-1 draw at home to relegation-threatened Aston Villa and analyse why the Blues could only muster one shot on target. The fitness of Dominic Calvert-Lewin is discussed as are the chances of Moise Kean featuring more before the end of the season - why won't Carlo Ancelotti start him? Would having Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg in the team on Thursday night have made a difference? Everton want the Southampton midfielder and the lads look at how he would potentially fit into the team. One of few positives to emerge from the game with Villa was the performance of Jarrad Branthwaite and the panel talk about his potential before finishing this week's pod with a look at Monday's trip to Sheffield United who have the stinging criticism of manager Chris Wilder ringing in their ears. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
17/07/20·50m 35s

Royal Blue: Dreadful Wolves display, Coleman's home truths and what comes next for Everton?

The Royal Blue podcast returns and, unfortunately, there is another defeat for our panel to dissect. Everton were dreadful on Sunday as they were beaten 3-0 at the hands of Wolves, effectively ending any hopes of European football next season. Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice, Gav Buckland and Sam Carroll to discuss the problems on display in detail. Seamus Coleman's post-match comments, Jordan Pickford's mistakes and the upcoming transfer window all are included in a lively chat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13/07/20·41m 59s

Royal Blue: Midfield conundrum, time to move away from the 4-4-2 & time for Moise Kean to lead the line?

The Royal Blue podcast returns after Everton drew 1-1 with Southampton at Goodison Park on Thursday. Carlo Ancelotti will be pondering his midfield options ahead of the trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers this weekend and Adam Jones and Gavin Buckland joined host Sam Carroll to discuss Andre Gomes, Alex Iwobi and other issues in the central area. The importance of Richarlison was highlighted by his goal against Southampton in midweek but the panel also debate whether it is time for Moise Kean to be unleashed as Dominic Calvert-Lewin continues to search for his first goal since the restart. Formation changes, rotation possibilities and transfer needs are also brought to you in the latest episode as the trio build-up to the game against Wolves in what will be a short turnaround for Everton and Ancelotti. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/07/20·40m 25s

Kevin Campbell Exclusive: Carlo, DCL, the midfield, Thiago Silva, and tonight's Southampton match

Our Everton FC reporter Adam Jones got a chance to speak to former Everton favourite Kevin Campbell ahead of tonight's visit of Southampton to Goodison Park (6pm kick-off), which fans can watch for free on Amazon Prime Video and stream for free on Twitch. Adam and Super Kev talk the impact of Carlo Ancelotti and what he needs to do next; the transformation of Dominic Calvert-Lewin this season into a proper Everton No 9, which Campbell himself was; this summer's transfer priorities and those links to Brazil great Thiago Silva; the midfield, Anthony Gordon and Alex Iwobi, and, of course, a little bit about this evening's game versus the Saints. Enjoy.You can watch Everton v Southampton at 6pm Thursday 9 July for free on Amazon Prime Video, or fans can stream the game at no cost on Twitch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/07/20·20m 46s

Analysing Everton: Andre Gomes & Alex Iwobi come in for questioning as Blues' squad imbalance comes to the fore once more

Analysing Everton is back once more amidst a flurry of games for the Blues to get into some of the key statistical and analytical information around Carlo Ancelotti's side. Fresh from the 1-0 defeat away to Tottenham Hotspur and prior to facing both Southampton and Wolves, Dave Hughes and Josh Williams look back on the result in London. Coming in for questioning are two of Ancelotti's midfield men in Andre Gomes and Alex Iwobi. Both have struggled to give a cutting edge to the Blues in the final third of the pitch as we delve into the data to work out whether the individuals are underperforming, or whether it is the imbalance within the Blues' squad leading to the below par showings. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
08/07/20·1h 1m

Royal Blue: Letdown in London, major midfield problems, and mindless desecration of Dixie Dean statue

Twenty-four hours after Everton's dispiriting defeat at Tottenham Hotspur, the Royal Blue podcast returns to pick the bones out of a display that had all the hallmarks of so many ones that preceded the arrival of Carlo Ancelotti. Host Phil Kirkbride, along with Chris Beesley, Sam Carroll and Dave Prentice, look at what went wrong in north London, focusing particularly on the midfield. There aren't too many positives, understandably, but the performance off the bench of Anthony Gordon was definitely one of them. However, there was absolutely nothing positive about seeing the mindless damage done to the Dixie Dean statue and memorial outside Goodison Park. The panel also have strong views on that before turning their attention to the visit of Southampton to L4 on Thursday night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/07/20·37m 28s

hummel EXCLUSIVE: Adam Jones speak with hummel Chief Brand Officer Filip Trulsson | Why Everton, inspiration for designs and more!

Following swiftly on from Everton revealing their new hummel kits ahead of the 2020/21 season, the ECHO's Everton reporter Adam Jones has been speaking exclusively with hummel Chief Brand Officer Filip Trulsson. Catch their conversation as Filip explains the lengths hummel have gone to in order to deliver a bespoke design for their first set of Everton kits. He also explains why the brand were keen to get involved with the Blues and also touches on the guided tour he was given at Goodison Park by Graeme Sharp. Plus, we ask more about the links between Everton and hummel with their famous chevrons set to don the famous Blue shirts and also how club's iconic Z-Cars anthem is the inspiration behind that idea, with its soundbar expanded and embossed in a striking manner. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
04/07/20·18m 2s

Royal Blue: Carlo's tactical masterclass | European hopes | New kit & new signing!

From Carlo Ancelotti's tactical "masterclass" to a new kit and a new signing, there's plenty packed in to this edition of the Royal Blue podcast. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones and Gav Buckland to look back over a win over Leicester City, look ahead to a trip to Spurs and the future in a new strip and with a new left-back at the club. The panel ask whether the midweek win has flown under the radar and praise Ancelotti's handling of a squad hit by injuries since the lockdown. The chase for Europe is talked about as is a pivotal game in that hunt - Monday night's trip to Spurs. Should the Blues be wary of a wounded Jose Mourinho, who will be smarting from the defeat to Sheffield United? Or is the Portuguese coach not the force he once was? Everton released next season's hummel home kit today, to widespread acclaim, and the lads share in their admiration for the designs. The signing of Niels Nkounkou, a free transfer from Marseille, is discussed as well as what it means in the future for Everton. Also news that Jean-Philippe Gbamin could be back for the start of next term, is also on the agenda. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/07/20·48m 39s

Analysing Everton: Carlo's class shines through as Blues make impressive start to action post-lockdown | Set-pieces, tactics, man management

Having picked up seven points from nine on offer in the first three games back after the lockdown, Everton remain within reach of European-finish to the Premier League campaign. With the action now back and in full flow, Analysing Everton makes a long awaited return to Royal Blue. Join Dave Hughes and Josh Williams as they look back on the draw with Liverpool and wins over both Norwich City and Leicester City as well as discuss whether or not a European finish is out of the reach of Carlo Ancelotti's Blues. In the focus is the improvement defensive under the Italian, how set-pieces have gone from a weakness to a strength for the Blues as well as how Ancelotti continues to adapt and remain at the top of his game. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
02/07/20·1h 3m

Royal Blue: Blues welcome Foxes to Goodison while Bolasie outlines his own intentions but can he still have a future at Everton?

The agenda for today's Royal Blue podcast includes Yerry Mina, Fabian Delph, the visit of Leicester City, Yannick Bolasie and Jonjoe Kenny. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones and Sam Carroll to preview Wednesday night's game at Goodison plus discuss what Carlo Ancelotti said at this pre-match press conference, as well as all the other Blues news. Ancelotti confirmed that Mina is fit again and will be in the squad to face Leicester while Djibril Sidibe will return to training on Friday and Theo Walcott next week. But Delph remains injured and the panel talk about their frustrations over a stop-start first season at Everton for the midfielder. Confidence is high for another Everton win as the panel point to Leicester's packed start, which has only seen them draw two of their opening three league and cup games. Bolasie is also talking in a confident mood today, declaring his intention to return to Everton in pre-season and fight for his place, but the panel don't share the winger's optimism. Yet, there is greater hope that on the back of a successful season on loan at Schalke, Kenny has done enough to force his way into Ancelotti's thinking. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30/06/20·46m 0s

Royal Blue: Blues continue Carlo's European charge, Niasse set to the exit door & Baines wait goes on

Buoyed by the victory over Norwich City the Royal Blue podcast team are back with a spring in their step today. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland to look back on the 1-0 win at Carrow Road and ask how realistic Carlo Ancelotti's Europa League aims are? Also up for discussion are match-winner Michael Keane - should he score more goals than he does? - as well as the man who laid on the assist, Lucas Digne. Is the Everton left-back having a good season? The surprise social media outburst of architect Dan Meis, in which he made his feelings at no longer being "directly engaged" in Everton's new stadium project clear, is also on the agenda.The lads also discuss the news this week that Oumar Niasse and Cuco Martina will be released at the end of their contracts next week. Niasse, predictably, dominates this segment of the discussion before the pod moves onto Leighton Baines. The Blues' hero has signed a short-term extension to his contract but the club await a response to the offer of a new one-year deal. Is the wait any reason for concern? Dave and Gav have their say. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
26/06/20·48m 31s

Royal Blue: What does the future hold for Leighton Baines as Blues head to Carrow Road with revenge in their sights

The Royal Blue podcast returns from home - 24 hours after the last edition! - to discuss the Premier League trip to rock-bottom Norwich City for Everton on Wednesday. Everton contested an evenly-fought encounter with top-of-the-table Liverpool on Sunday but will face an entirely different prospect at Carrow Road with Daniel Farke desperately hoping to guide his team to an unlikely escape act. Host Sam Carroll is joined by Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland as the panel pick apart Carlo Ancelotti's press conference, the line-up options available to him and the differing tactics that could be employed against the Canaries. Plus, they get into the future of Leighton Baines as that was on the agenda as Ancelotti spoke with the media ahead of the trip to Carrow Road. Norwich have enjoyed 48 hours extra rest than Everton, who will be hoping to avenge the home defeat suffered at Goodison Park under Marco SIlva in November. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
23/06/20·33m 50s

Royal Blue: Everton return with Merseyside derby point as Richarlison leads the way, while Schneiderlin heads for the exit

The Royal Blue podcast returns from home to dissect the goalless draw played out between Everton and Liverpool in the 236th Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park on Sunday. Both sides were three months without football due to the outbreak of coronavirus but contested an evenly-fought encounter with Tom Davies, Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin having opportunities for the home side. Host Sam Carroll is joined by Adam Jones and Dave Prentice to discuss whether Everton deserved victory, the tactics employed by Carlo Ancelotti, Seamus Coleman and the midfield performances of Alex Iwobi and Andre Gomes. The panel also talked through the impending exit of Morgan Schneiderlin to French club Nice and the news that Maarten Stekelenburg has signed a new short-term contract ahead of a summer move to Ajax, where he started his career. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22/06/20·39m 25s

Royal Blue: Goodison derby with a difference & Richarlison sets the tone for Everton to follow

Finally, Everton are back in action this weekend! The Blues welcome Liverpool to an empty Goodison Park on Sunday evening for the 236th Merseyside derby as they return to Premier League football for the first time in over three months. What a game to have first up. Adam Jones is joined by Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland to discuss just how Everton might be affected by not having the home support behind them this weekend. One player who has stoked the flames of the derby atmosphere with no fans able to be in attendance is Richarlison. The panel also discuss the Blues' injury situation and, of course, make their ever-accurate score predictions for the upcoming game! Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
19/06/20·32m 57s

Royal Blue: Anthony Gordon to get Merseyside derby chance & what to do in defence as the injuries mount up

The Royal Blue podcast returned from home this week to discuss the Everton intrasquad friendly played behind closed doors at Goodison Park on Saturday. Anthony Gordon caught the eye with a goal - further strengthening his chances of being involved in the squad to face Liverpool - while Cuco Martina operated as a makeshift centre-back with Yerry Mina out injured. Host Sam Carroll asked Adam Jones and Dave Prentice their thoughts on Gordon, Martina and a host of other topics, including how a young player would react to being included for a Merseyside Derby played in front of a select crowd. With the podcast to return later in the week to look ahead to the visit of Liverpool, Luke Garbutt - who will leave this summer - and young goalkeeper Joao Virginia are also discussed. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15/06/20·38m 42s

Royal Blue: Everton's class clear for all to see whilst injury hits Carlo's squad again & Nice time to cash in on Morgan Schneiderlin?

On today's bumper edition of the Royal Blue podcast we discuss everything from commercial deals to selling Morgan Schneiderlin. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Sam Carroll and Gav Buckland to talk through the major talking points coming out of Goodison this week. We start by assessing the club's new shirt sponsorship deal with Cazoo and the merits of ending the agreement with SportPesa before moving onto the news that players, board members and other key staff have taken wage cuts and deferrals - plus a generous donation from fans that was matched by Farhad Moshiri and Bill Kenwright. Goodison was given the go-ahead to host next weekend's Merseyside derby and we talk about how players will deal with no fans inside the ground and how Everton can overcome the challenges of making the stadium bio-secure. Carlo Ancelotti's preparations for the game have been dealt a blow this week with the news that Theo Walcott has been ruled out and Andre Gomes and Fabian Delph are concerns. The panel discuss who should play on the right-wing and conclude the podcast by talking about the futures of Maarten Stekelenburg, Djibril Sidibe and Schneiderlin, who has been the subject of interest from Nice. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/06/20·52m 38s

Royal Blue: Moise Kean to take opportunity handed by Premier League rule change & time to cash in on academy prospects?

The Premier League have this week voted in favour of allowing teams to use five subs when the season resumes - but which Everton player will benefit the most? We ask that question and many more on the latest edition of the Royal Blue podcast. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Sam Carroll and Gavin Buckland to discuss the use of five subs and if Carlo Ancelotti could use the final nine games of the campaign to experiment with the team. The panel discuss the Merseyside derby and argue that for the 'integrity' of the competition, the game has to take place at Goodison and not at a neutral venue. And what is the mood among Evertonians about the season resuming? The lads debate that as well as the prospect of the club selling young striker Fraser Hornby. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
06/06/20·37m 55s

Royal Blue: Leighton Baines offered Everton extension & Mina adds to Blues injury woes

Everton were finally dealt a slice of good news on Wednesday as Leighton Baines was offered a new one-year contract at Goodison Park. The iconic defender has been brilliant when stepping into the side this term so this might not have come as a surprise, but it's certainly a welcome boost to supporters. This is, of course, after another injury was confirmed recently, with Yerry Mina picking up a thigh issue in training. Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Sam Carroll to discuss Everton's brilliant position at left-back - compared to the potential issues in central defence. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
03/06/20·41m 23s

Royal Blue: Gbamin dealt further injury blow as Everton left to ponder next move into the market

Unfortunately, just as it seemed Jean-Philippe Gbamin might play a part for Everton this season, the opportunity has once again been taken away. The midfielder has suffered another serious injury which will keep him on the sidelines for the long term as his back luck at Goodison Park continues. Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones and Sam Carroll to discuss that situation and where that leaves both the player and the club in the long run. Also on the agenda is the potential of a Merseyside derby being played both behind-closed-doors and at a neutral venue - which causes a very interesting debate. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
29/05/20·32m 3s

Royal Blue: Gbamin and Kean to play crucial role in Everton's future with transfer uncertainty looming

Everton are facing up to a new transfer reality because of the coronavirus crisis. Planned spending looks as though it will have to be reined in and frees, loans and swaps could dominate the market when it opens. And on today's podcast, host Phil Kirkbride asks Sam Carroll and Adam Jones how confident they are that the Blues can still find the right players to improve the squad. We also look at a developing trend in the Bundesliga where there have only been three home wins in 22 matches, since the league resumed. So how concerned are the lads about the potential impact Everton could feel when games at Goodison are played behind closed doors, too? And in the final part of today's podcast, we assess the comments from Jean-Philippe Gbamin as he sets a target of playing again this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
27/05/20·38m 44s

Royal Blue: Q&A Special | Hummel kit deal, How Ancelotti and Brands move Everton forward & Bramley-Moore Dock

Today we tackle your questions on the Royal Blue podcast. Listeners put a whole host of topics on the table for host Phil Kirkbride, Adam Jones and Sam Carroll to get their teeth stuck into. There were questions on the new kit deal with Hummel, future shirt sponsorship deals and potential pre-season tours of the US. The four key areas for Everton to target in the next transfer window, a question about the suitability of Adrien Rabiot and the future of Jonjoe Kenny. We had questions about a new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, FFP, Ancelotti's system and potential rule changes. Sit back, relax and enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22/05/20·50m 21s

Royal Blue: Record kit deal with Hummel announced | 1995 FA Cup win and how Everton return to the top table

It's all about the past, present and future on today's Royal Blue podcast. On the anniversary of Everton's 1995 FA Cup win, we ask why supporters are conflicted by the date and the panel discuss what has got to happen to bring silverware back to Goodison. Host Phil Kirkbride opens the podcast by talking about the day's breaking news, that Everton have struck a club-record kit deal with hummel to supply the club ahead of next season. Dave Prentice, Adam Jones and Sam Carroll shares their hopes for what the new deal could bring. And the third element of today's podcast, sees the lads talk through the latest developments in Project Restart, the league-wide testing, a return to training and the prospect of behind closed doors games. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
20/05/20·29m 56s

Royal Blue: European Cup Winners' Cup win remembered | Latest on Premier League return

The Royal Blue Podcast returns - from home - to discuss the latest talking points surrounding Everton and the return of Premier League football. Host Sam Carroll is joined by Adam Jones and Dave Prentice as the trio dissect European Cup Winners' Cup glory, the latest government comments about the Premier League and talented prospects coming through the ranks at Goodison Park. Everton lifted the Cup Winners' Cup 35 years ago on Friday and Prentice delivers his memories of the victory over Rapid Vienna while Jones is encouraged by the willingness of current players to get behind the Howard's Way documentary film. A statement made by culture secretary Oliver Dowden about the Premier League returning in June is pondered while the podcast also discusses which partnership from different eras of modern Everton history they would like to have seen turning out together. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15/05/20·37m 43s

Royal Blue: The big Premier League question and what Everton should do with Niasee, Martina and Stekelenburg

The government has given the Premier League the green light to restart the season in June but the big question that kicks off this latest episode of the Royal Blue podcast is: should we be even talking about playing football again? Host Phil Kirkbride, Adam Jones and Chris Beesley also discuss the issues of playing out the campaign at neutral venues, and what will happen if or, in more likelihood, when a player gets tested positive for coronavirus once the action resumes. And what should Everton do about Oumar Niasse, Cuco Martina and Martin Stekelenburg, whose current contracts will expire before the season ends? And should the Blues wrap up a deal for the on-loan Djibril Sidibé? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/05/20·34m 13s

Royal Blue: Joe Royle, the FA Cup, Kendall's second return and another last-day survival

The second part of our 1990s special begins with the appointment of Joe Royle as Everton manager. His impact was immediate, and lasting, as he kept the Blues up and then won the FA Cup. Everton would just miss out on qualifying for Europe the following season as a revamped squad, with Andrei Kanchelskis scoring 16 times in the league, looking like they would revive the club's fortunes. But the 1990s would prove a troublesome decade for the club and as the team's form dipped, a meeting between Royle and owner Peter Johnson would set about more dramatic change. Host Phil Kirkbride is, once again, joined by Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland to discuss the second-half of the decade which saw Kendall's second comeback, another last day survival job and the arrival of Walter Smith. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28/04/20·1h 16m

Royal Blue: Everton in 1990s, Kendall's return, his resignation, Mike Walker and survival on the final day

Our latest Royal Blue podcast special sees us tackle the 1990s at Everton. In part one of our look at the decade, host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Dave Prentice and Gav Buckland to look at the birth of a new decade, right up until the sacking of Mike Walker. As with our 80s specials, Prentice and Buckland provide wonderful insight, commentary and knowledge about a turbulent period of the Blues' history. This first part of the 90s would, eventually, pave the way for Joe Royle to lead the club to 1995 FA Cup success, but before that came hirings, firings and a survival battle on the final day of the season. With tales of signings that didn't happen, tales from the press box and more, this podcast is the first of two parts on Everton in the 90s. Enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
24/04/20·1h 6m

Royal Blue: The fall of Marco Silva at Everton and the next steps for Jean Philippe-Gbamin

The Royal Blue Podcast returns on lockdown to discuss the fall of Marco Silva at Everton and the loss of Idrissa Gana Gueye as well as the next steps for Jean-Philippe Gbamin. Host Phil Kirkbride is joined by Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Sam Carroll as they reflect on the one-year anniversary of the 4-0 victory over Manchester United at Goodison Park. The win is hailed as the high-point of Silva's short tenure and the panel assess whether the transfer of Gueye to Paris Saint Germain hindered Everton more than initially expected. Gbamin and his return to action is also on the agenda as well as assessing the performances of goalkeeper Jordan Pickford as he faces scrutiny over his position as number one for club and country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22/04/20·39m 18s

Royal Blue: Dissecting Graeme Sharp's Premier League comments and what happens now with Gylfi Sigurdsson

Everton legend Graeme Sharp’s call for the Premier League to be scrapped is one of the big talking points of the Royal Blue podcast. Adam Jones, Dave Prentice and Chris Beesley also discuss the future of Gylfi Sigurdsson with reports suggesting the Blues will have to take a huge loss if they choose to sell the Icelandic midfielder. And also on the agenda is two famous FA Cup semi-finals that took place on this day in years gone by – one we’re quite happy never to talk about again, and the other we’ll never stop talking about. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14/04/20·38m 42s

Royal Blue: Everton and the big changes coming football’s way

A special Royal Blue podcast as we also get the view from across the park on furloughing staff, players’ wage cuts, the prospect of behind-closed-doors football, and changes to the transfer market. Days before Everton were set to welcome Liverpool to Goodison Park, the Premier League was shut down, which it continues to be. So, to replace the derby that never was, Royal Blue regulars Phil Kirkbride and Adam Jones are joined by Paul Gorst and Joe Rimmer of the Liverpool ECHO’s Blood Red: Liverpool FC podcast for a Merseyside take on the big issues surrounding our clubs and football worldwide.  For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/04/20·36m 47s

Special: Matt Jackson recalls Everton's 4-1 thrashing of Tottenham and how Joe Royle's 'Dogs of War' prevented the so-called 'Dream Final'

Everton's 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the 1995 FA Cup semi-final is regarded as one of the Blues' greatest-ever displays - particularly in a big game - and the best performance of Joe Roye's tenure as manager. April 9, 2020 is the 25th anniversary of the match at Elland Road and in a Royal Blue podcast special, Chris Beesley speaks to Matt Jackson - scorer of the opening goal that afternoon. The former Blues right-back discusses why he believes his side enjoyed a psychological advantage before a ball was even kicked, his header from Andy Hinchcliffe's corner kick, the mystery behind super super Daniel Amokachi's introduction into the game and the delight of 'The Dogs of War' at denying the so-called 'Dream Final' between Spurs and the previous season's double winners, Manchester United. Jackson also offers his opinion on the current Everton side under Carlo Ancelotti and what he really thought about his old team-mate Duncan Ferguson going into management. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
09/04/20·16m 2s

Everton in the 1980s: Colin Harvey as a manager, why it didn't work out, and why the job he took on was harder than it looked

This is the second part of our special look at Everton in the 1980s. In part one, we looked at the years that came before Howard Kendall's side won league titles, European honours and domestic cups - and how a relegation fight at the start of the decade would ultimately lead to success. In part two, we look at how a changing Everton tried to live up to the expectations and standards set by that great team of Kendall's, after the manager left for Bibao. Host Phil Kirkbride is, again, joined by Dave Prentice and Gavin Buckland to talk us through the first two-and-a-half seasons of Colin Harvey's reign, the players from the title-winning era, the new ones, a British record signing and much more. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
07/04/20·51m 39s