Walk On: The Athletic FC's Liverpool show

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to assess the fallout from defeat to Paris Saint-Germain — and the devastating news that Ekitike is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines. What does his absence mean for the remainder of the season and the summer transfer window? With Ekitike out, the spotlight turns firmly to Alexander Isak. The panel discuss whether he’s ready to lead the line after a slow start to life at Anfield, while also taking a closer look at Florian Wirtz — and why these final weeks of the season could define how he’s judged. Plus, a look ahead to a huge Merseyside derby away at Everton, and how Liverpool adapt without their main striker as the race for the top five intensifies. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect on a much-needed win over Fulham, headlined by 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha, who became Liverpool’s youngest-ever league scorer at Anfield. The panel discuss whether this is the emergence of a genuine wildcard option ahead of the decisive Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain — or simply a rare bright spot in an inconsistent campaign. Off the pitch, attention turns to growing fan unrest, with reaction to ticket price protests and wider questions around access, ownership, and the club’s long-term direction. Plus, Andy Robertson’s confirmed departure brings reflection on his legacy and where he ranks among Liverpool’s best ever signings. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to reflect on the 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain with zero shots on target, just 26% possession, and Arne Slot admitting his side were in “survival mode”. The panel assess Slot’s tactical calls, including the decision to deploy a five-man defence and leave Mohamed Salah, unused, on the bench. There’s also a closer look at Hugo Ekitike’s difficult return to Paris, what Alexander Isak’s comeback could mean for the run-in, and whether the tie is already beyond Liverpool ahead of the second leg at Anfield. Plus, reaction to growing unrest around the club — from ticket price rises to wider questions about FSG’s stewardship — and whether the disconnect between fans, players and ownership is turning into a broader identity crisis. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & Andy Jones Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to reflect on Liverpool’s heavy FA Cup defeat to Manchester City and Slot’s comments on a lack of “fighting spirit.” The panel assess whether Slot was right to question his players so publicly, the recurring defensive issues that continue to cost Liverpool, and whether senior figures like Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah are doing enough in key moments. Attention then turns to Paris Saint-Germain, with The Athletic’s Tom Williams joining to give the French perspective ahead of Wednesday’s clash. How dangerous are PSG, and how big a challenge do they pose to a fragile Liverpool side? With confidence shaken and the stakes rising, the panel debate just how crucial these next two games are — not just for Liverpool’s season, but for Slot’s future. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes, James Pearce & Tom Williams Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to preview the FA Cup clash with Manchester City on Saturday and debate where Arne Slot should be focusing his attention. The panel weigh up the importance of the FA Cup against the demands of the Premier League and Champions League, with a packed schedule forcing tough decisions. Should Slot go full strength, or rotate with PSG looming? There’s also a deep dive into listener questions — from whether a true “Liverpool way” still exists under Slot, to who carries the most responsibility for an underwhelming season, and concerns around the manager’s man-management style. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down the reasons behind Salah’s departure. The panel discuss the role Slot played in Salah’s exit, the tensions that emerged during the season, and whether this feels like a natural conclusion or a slightly sour ending to a remarkable chapter. There’s also talk around Liverpool’s future and whether abandoning the plan of Arne Slot at the helm would actually set the club further back. There are heated discussions around PSG’s successful attempt to postpone their league match, giving them an edge in the Champions League, plus Jürgen Klopp has been back at Anfield. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce, Simon Hughes and Andy Jones are alongside Tony Evans to react to the news Mohamed Salah will leave Liverpool at the end of the season. The Egyptian King, who has scored 255 goals in 435 games for the Reds will bring to a close his career at Anfield after nine seasons after he announced the decision on Instagram. The panel give their reaction to the announcement, take a trip down memory lane looking back on the key moments Salah has provided in his time at Anfield as well as assessing how the news could impact the rest of the season, Arne Slot's role as head coach and Liverpool's push to finish in the top five of the Premier League. Share your favourite Salah memories and moments on email: walkon@theathletic.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and Andy Jones join Tony Evans to dissect another damaging result in the race for the top five. From European euphoria to Premier League frustration, Liverpool were brought crashing back down to earth with defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion. The panel explore the now-familiar pattern of Liverpool failing to back up big Champions League performances, with Arne Slot admitting his side once again couldn’t match their previous level. Is this simply fatigue — or a deeper issue with the squad? There’s discussion around defensive errors, the growing injury list with Hugo Ekitike forced off early, and whether the absence of key forwards like Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak has left Liverpool short in attack. Plus, with just one point from their last three league games, the guys assess the state of the top-five race — and whether this side can stumble over the line. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & Andy Jones Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down a night that could define Liverpool’s season. After a flat and frustrating run, Anfield came alive as Arne Slot’s side produced a statement performance to book their place in the Champions League quarter-finals. The panel analyse the tactical switch to a 4-4-2 system, Mohamed Salah’s impact in a more central role, and whether this performance finally offers a blueprint for consistency. Off the pitch, attention turns to uncertainty behind the scenes, with speculation linking sporting director Richard Hughes to a move to Saudi Arabia. Plus, with Brighton up next and a tough record following European fixtures, can Liverpool balance their domestic and continental ambitions? Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to ask the big question: with boos ringing out following Liverpool’s draw with Tottenham Hotspur, where does this leave Arne Slot? The panel dissect the disappointing performance, the late goal conceded, and the growing frustration among supporters as Liverpool let another opportunity slip. With questions mounting around team selection, squad planning and the mood around the manager, is this becoming a turning point in Slot’s tenure? Plus, attention quickly turns to a huge night in Europe as Liverpool prepare for a season-defining Champions League clash with Galatasaray. Can they keep their campaign alive — and perhaps change the narrative around the season? Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to unpack the 1–0 defeat away to Galatasaray in the Champions League. It was a frustrating night that once again highlighted familiar problems — defensive lapses and missed chances. The guys ask whether the tie is still there for Liverpool to turn around at Anfield next week. The panel also reflect on Arne Slot’s first 100 games in charge and explore why fan sentiment feels surprisingly mixed despite a record no Liverpool manager has ever bettered. Finally with Tottenham Hotspur heading to Anfield this weekend, the guys preview Sunday’s Premier League clash and assess whether it’s the perfect fixture for Liverpool to bounce back. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregg Evans and James Pearce join Tony Evans to break down the FA Cup win at Molineux, including Ngumoha’s eye-catching display and whether this is the moment he becomes a genuine first-team option under Arne Slot. The panel also discuss Andy Robertson’s match-winning contribution — a goal and an assist in two electric minutes — and what the left-back had to say about his future at Liverpool FC amid growing competition for places. There’s also reaction to Ryan Gravenberch signing a new six-year deal, a listener question on how busy Liverpool need to be in the summer transfer window, and a look ahead to Tuesday night’s Champions League last-16 clash away to Galatasaray in Istanbul. What must Liverpool do differently to avoid a repeat of their defeat in Turkey earlier this season? Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Gregg Evans & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Pearce and Andy Jones are with Tony Evans to react to a FIFTH game Liverpool have lost in stoppage time this season after going down 2-1 to Wolves. The panel get stuck into the nature of the performance against the side sitting bottom of the Premier League, discuss Arne Slot's post-match comments and question where it leaves the Reds in their quest for Champions League qualification. There's also discussion on Hugo Ekitike's fading performances within games before debating the lack of productivity from the wide players. Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: James Pearce and Andy Jones Producer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to unpack a goal-fest at Anfield, where set-pieces once again proved decisive — prompting a wider debate sparked by Arne Slot’s claim that dead-ball dominance may be taking some of the joy out of football. The panel dig into standout performances from Alexis Mac Allister, Virgil van Dijk and Hugo Ekitike, ask why Liverpool look so dangerous from corners all of a sudden, and question the consistency of VAR decisions after yet another controversial weekend. There’s also a deep dive into Liverpool FC’s newly released financial accounts — record revenues, a Premier League-high wage bill and what it all means for future spending — plus a look ahead to Wolves under the lights on Tuesday night. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans as they look ahead to West Ham at Anfield and assess where Liverpool really are after a free week on the training ground. The panel discuss the upcoming Champions League last-16 draw, and dig into Liverpool’s injury list — who could we see back on Saturday? There’s also a deep dive into Liverpool’s improving set-piece record and the guys share their thoughts on an in-form Premier League player who could be available to Liverpool on a free this summer! Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Hughes and James Pearce join Tony Evans to unpack a chaotic final act in Nottingham, from VAR confusion and Alexis Mac Allister’s stoppage-time strike to a worrying first-half display that raised familiar concerns. Did the late winner at the City Ground just paper over the cracks? The panel discuss Florian Wirtz’s late withdrawal, and the impact of Rio Ngumoha off the bench. There’s also no avoiding the Mohamed Salah conversation: a growing goal drought, a smirk when substituted, and a renewed debate over his future and relationship with Arne Slot. Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Simon Hughes & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Jones and James Pearce join Tony Evans to react to Arne Slot’s latest press conference, assess the ongoing right-back crisis, and dig deeper into the form of Curtis Jones and Milos Kerkez. Next up Liverpool head to Nottingham Forest with confidence growing — but questions still swirling. The panel also discuss Liverpool’s excitement — and concern — over teenage talent Josh Abe and debate shock transfer links involving bitter rivals! Want to get in touch with your thoughts? Email: walkon@theathletic.com Host: Tony Evans With: Andy Jones & James Pearce Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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

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