Episode
Is VAR Ruining Football? | Maddison Returns & Newcastle vs West Ham (Q&A)
- Published
- May 14, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3983
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Summary
Jack is joined by Gavin for a Thursday Q&A to dissect the frustrating fallout from Tottenham's clash with Leeds United. The pair kick things off by venting about the baffling VAR decision to deny James Maddison a clear foul, reacting to the midfielder's own frustrations posted on Instagram. We ask the broader question of whether the current implementation of VAR is fundamentally ruining the sport, before finding a much-needed silver lining in Maddison's return to the pitch. We discuss how, despite lacking full match fitness, his sheer step up in quality was glaringly obvious and ask if he is the missing piece required to secure safety. Attention then turns to the relegation battle and the absolutely monumental weekend clash between Newcastle United and West Ham. Jack asks Gavin just how heavily our survival hinges on that specific result, while trying to nail down exactly what Tottenham need to do to save themselves. Finally, Gavin tackles a massive selection of listener questions, covering everything from the Premier League's potential refereeing conspiracies to the depressing four-year anniversary of beating Arsenal 3-0, debating whether Roberto De Zerbi would actually stick around for a Championship rebuild, and guessing which underwhelming players we will inevitably be linked to if the worst happens. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices