VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone.

Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation, is going to bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team Royal Oak FC, he'll be joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every Thursday they'll make sense of all of the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak...

In the first episode we'll chat about the international break, Firestick Dean (who is not in any way connected with Royal Oak FC), and death row meals.

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is performed and written by Chris McClure, and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits:

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Photography: Rob Nicholson Production Coordinator: Rose Wilcox Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background:

Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

Hosts of the podcast:

Steve Bracknall Assistant manager at Royal Oak FC, Steve Bracknall is to many the lifeblood of the club. Having agreed to front the club in terms of marketing and PR, Steve is the link between the fans and the club. No one cares about the Oak like Steve. Loving husband to Our Nikki and doting father to Our Olivia, come Sunday Steve is transformed into passionate assistant who would literally die for the cause. He cites man management as his strong point.

Paul Sampson First team manager and lifelong friend of Steve Bracknall. Paul originally formed the club with Steve. In recent years his commitment to the club has come under scrutiny especially after buying a time share in Tenerife and going on multiple golfing trips mid-season leaving Steve to hold the fort. He still has the final say over any tactical decisions that are made much to the annoyance of Steve.

Bob the Bucket Club physio and general caretaker Bob the Bucket has been with the club for over ten years. No one really knows why and when he joined but he did. General job roles include putting up nets, filling water bottles alongside prevention and rehab of all Oak players.

Steve Bracknall - the self-proclaimed saviour of grassroots football - takes a weekly deep dive into the murky world of the modern game whilst desperately trying to hold his ramshackle Sunday league team together. According to Steve Bracknall, the introduction of VAR, billion-pound TV deals and inverted wing backs are all a product of a game that doesn’t represent the average football fan anymore. Seen through the eyes of the Sunday league assistant manager, ‘Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast’, attempts to make sense of the beautiful game and recapture the hearts and minds of the people it claims to represent.

Sharp, witty, and unapologetically honest, Bracknall’s weekly rants are for anyone who longs for the days when football made sense. Set against the backdrop of a muddied changing room, and alongside first team manager Paul Sampson and club “physio” Bob the bucket, Bracknall relates the problems experienced by the likes of Pep Guardiola to that of his own in the Sheffield Sunday Imperial league. All the while the trio try to navigate the multitude of BBC editorial guidelines in an effort not to get “cancelled”. Game’s Gone has all the drama of the Premier League but on a bargain basement budget. It has ego, rivalry, corruption, and financial mismanagement - but instead of being played out in front of an 80,000-seater stadium, it unfolds in a mud-covered Sunday league changing rooms via a weekly BBC podcast.

Will Noel Gallagher make an appearance on today's episode? We chat about the rise of tiny shin pads and moan about the cost of watching football on TV. We find out who the lad's dream dinner party guests are.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone.

Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation, is going to get it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team Royal Oak FC, he'll be joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Each week they'll make sense of all of the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak...

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Photography: Rob Nicholson Production Coordinator: Rose Wilcox Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background: Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

Hosts of the podcast:

Steve Bracknall Assistant manager at Royal Oak FC, Steve Bracknall is to many the lifeblood of the club. Having agreed to front the club in terms of marketing and PR, Steve is the link between the fans and the club. No one cares about the Oak like Steve. Loving husband to Our Nikki and doting father to Our Olivia, come Sunday Steve is transformed into a passionate assistant who would literally die for the cause. He cites man management as his strong point.

Paul Sampson First team manager and lifelong friend of Steve Bracknall. Paul originally formed the club with Steve. In recent years his commitment to the club has come under scrutiny especially after buying a time share in Tenerife and going on multiple golfing trips mid-season leaving Steve to hold the fort. He still has the final say over any tactical decisions that are made much to the annoyance of Steve.

In this week's episode we look at ringers in the Sunday league, chat about Rooney/Tumblegate and get a dose of cup fever...

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone.

Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation, is going to get it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team Royal Oak FC, he'll be joined by gaffer Paul Sampson, and physio Bob the Bucket. Each week they'll make sense of all of the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak...

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Photography: Rob Nicholson Production Coordinator: Rose Wilcox Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background: Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

Hosts of the podcast:

Steve Bracknall Assistant manager at Royal Oak FC, Steve Bracknall is to many the lifeblood of the club. Having agreed to front the club in terms of marketing and PR, Steve is the link between the fans and the club. No one cares about the Oak like Steve. Loving husband to Our Nikki and doting father to Our Olivia, come Sunday Steve is transformed into a passionate assistant who would literally die for the cause. He cites man management as his strong point.

Paul Sampson First team manager and lifelong friend of Steve Bracknall. Paul originally formed the club with Steve. In recent years his commitment to the club has come under scrutiny especially after buying a time share in Tenerife and going on multiple golfing trips mid-season leaving Steve to hold the fort. He still has the final say over any tactical decisions that are made much to the annoyance of Steve.

Bob the Bucket Club physio and general caretaker Bob the Bucket has been with the club for over ten years. No one really knows why and when he joined but he did. General job roles include putting up nets, filling water bottles alongside prevention and rehab of all Oak players.

In this week's episode we travel down to London to chat with Robbie Williams, breakdown our reactions to the World Cup draw and go time travelling...

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone.

Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation, is going to get it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team Royal Oak FC, he'll be joined by gaffer Paul Sampson, and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode they'll make sense of all of the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak...

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Photography: Rob Nicholson Production Coordinator: Rose Wilcox Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background: Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

Hosts of the podcast:

Steve Bracknall Assistant manager at Royal Oak FC, Steve Bracknall is to many the lifeblood of the club. Having agreed to front the club in terms of marketing and PR, Steve is the link between the fans and the club. No one cares about the Oak like Steve. Loving husband to Our Nikki and doting father to Our Olivia, come Sunday Steve is transformed into a passionate assistant who would literally die for the cause. He cites man management as his strong point.

Paul Sampson First team manager and lifelong friend of Steve Bracknall. Paul originally formed the club with Steve. In recent years his commitment to the club has come under scrutiny especially after buying a time share in Tenerife and going on multiple golfing trips mid-season leaving Steve to hold the fort. He still has the final say over any tactical decisions that are made much to the annoyance of Steve.

Bob the Bucket Club physio and general caretaker Bob the Bucket has been with the club for over ten years. No one really knows why and when he joined but he did. General job roles include putting up nets, filling water bottles alongside prevention and rehab of all Oak players.

In this week's episode Steve skives off work to grill Angry Ginge, we bring you news of a thriller at the Oak and have a Christmas knees up...

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone.

Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation, is on a mission to save the beautiful game...

Direct from the dressing room of his team Royal Oak FC, he'll be joined by gaffer Paul Sampson, and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode they'll make sense of all of the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak...

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Photography: Rob Nicholson Production Coordinator: Rose Wilcox Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background: Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

Hosts of the podcast:

Steve Bracknall Assistant manager at Royal Oak FC, Steve Bracknall is to many the lifeblood of the club. Having agreed to front the club in terms of marketing and PR, Steve is the link between the fans and the club. No one cares about the Oak like Steve. Loving husband to Our Nikki and doting father to Our Olivia, come Sunday Steve is transformed into a passionate assistant who would literally die for the cause. He cites man management as his strong point.

Paul Sampson First team manager and lifelong friend of Steve Bracknall. Paul originally formed the club with Steve. In recent years his commitment to the club has come under scrutiny especially after buying a timeshare in Tenerife and going on multiple golfing trips mid-season leaving Steve to hold the fort. He still has the final say over any tactical decisions that are made much to the annoyance of Steve.

Bob the Bucket Club physio and general caretaker Bob the Bucket has been with the club for over ten years. No one really knows why and when he joined but he did. General job roles include putting up nets, filling water bottles alongside prevention and rehab of all Oak players.

In this special bonus episode of Game's Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast, we hear an extended version of the talk between Robbie Williams (Popstar and Port Vale FC fan) and Steve Bracknall (viral sensation and Assistant Manager of the Royal Oak FC).

With the aid of Paul Sampson and Bob The Bucket, they delve into the question of who's hardest, discuss mavericks and their favourite singalongs.

Bombing On. Together as One.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Will Gibson Smith Photography: Rob Nicholson Production Coordinator: Rose Wilcox Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this interview there’s more information at bbc.co.uk/actionline

Background: Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson.

Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

In this week's episode the team head to the red carpet at the BBC Sports Personality of The Year awards in Manchester, Bob gives his annual Christmas quiz and Steve takes us through his year as a viral sensation...

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone.

Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation, is on a mission to save the beautiful game...

Direct from the dressing room of his team Royal Oak FC, he'll be joined by gaffer Paul Sampson, and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode they'll make sense of all of the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak...

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Jason Allen Photography: Rob Nicholson Production Coordinator: Rose Wilcox Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background:

Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

Hosts of the podcast:

Steve Bracknall Assistant manager at Royal Oak FC, Steve Bracknall is to many the lifeblood of the club. Having agreed to front the club in terms of marketing and PR, Steve is the link between the fans and the club. No one cares about the Oak like Steve. Loving husband to Our Nikki and doting father to Our Olivia, come Sunday Steve is transformed into a passionate assistant who would literally die for the cause. He cites man management as his strong point.

Paul Sampson First team manager and lifelong friend of Steve Bracknall. Paul originally formed the club with Steve. In recent years his commitment to the club has come under scrutiny especially after buying a timeshare in Tenerife and going on multiple golfing trips mid-season leaving Steve to hold the fort. He still has the final say over any tactical decisions that are made much to the annoyance of Steve.

Bob the Bucket Club physio and general caretaker Bob the Bucket has been with the club for over ten years. No one really knows why and when he joined but he did. General job roles include putting up nets, filling water bottles alongside prevention and rehab of all Oak players.

In this special bonus episode of Game's Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast, we hear an extended version of the talk between Angry Ginge (King of the Jungle and Manchester United fan) and Steve Bracknall (viral sensation and Assistant Manager of the Royal Oak FC) as they talk Soccer Aid, the I'm A Celeb jungle and Baller League.

Bombing On. Together as One. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Jason Allen Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background: Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. 

Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

In this week's episode Steve makes a pitch for the vacant Man United job, the team set some transfer targets, dream of winning the lottery and look at all the latest football news involving West Ham, Mikel Arteta, Enzo Fernandez, Pep Guardiola and Erling Haaland.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone.

Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation, is on a mission to save the beautiful game...

Direct from the dressing room of his team Royal Oak FC, he'll be joined by gaffer Paul Sampson, and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode they'll make sense of all of the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak...

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background: Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

Hosts of the podcast:

Steve Bracknall Assistant manager at Royal Oak FC, Steve Bracknall is to many the lifeblood of the club. Having agreed to front the club in terms of marketing and PR, Steve is the link between the fans and the club. No one cares about the Oak like Steve. Loving husband to Our Nikki and doting father to Our Olivia, come Sunday Steve is transformed into a passionate assistant who would literally die for the cause. He cites man management as his strong point.

Paul Sampson First team manager and lifelong friend of Steve Bracknall. Paul originally formed the club with Steve. In recent years his commitment to the club has come under scrutiny especially after buying a timeshare in Tenerife and going on multiple golfing trips mid-season leaving Steve to hold the fort. He still has the final say over any tactical decisions that are made much to the annoyance of Steve.

Bob the Bucket Club physio and general caretaker Bob the Bucket has been with the club for over ten years. No one really knows why and when he joined but he did. General job roles include putting up nets, filling water bottles alongside prevention and rehab of all Oak players.

In this week's episode the team enjoy the magic of the FA Cup, split the G, take a wrecking ball to Stockley Park and ponder the all important question - Messi or Ronaldo?

They also touch on Michael Carrick's appointment as Manchester United's caretaker head coach and Big Kirk signing for Royal Oak.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone.

Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation, is on a mission to save the beautiful game...

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background

Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

Meet The Hosts

Steve Bracknall Assistant manager at Royal Oak FC, Steve Bracknall is to many the lifeblood of the club. Having agreed to front the club in terms of marketing and PR, Steve is the link between the fans and the club. No one cares about the Oak like Steve. Loving husband to Our Nikki and doting father to Our Olivia, come Sunday Steve is transformed into a passionate assistant who would literally die for the cause. He cites man management as his strong point.

Paul Sampson First team manager and lifelong friend of Steve Bracknall. Paul originally formed the club with Steve. In recent years his commitment to the club has come under scrutiny especially after buying a timeshare in Tenerife and going on multiple golfing trips mid-season leaving Steve to hold the fort. He still has the final say over any tactical decisions that are made much to the annoyance of Steve.

Bob the Bucket Club physio and general caretaker Bob the Bucket has been with the club for over ten years. No one really knows why and when he joined but he did. General job roles include putting up nets, filling water bottles alongside prevention and rehab of all Oak players.

In this week's episode Steve, Paul and Bob are in crisis management mode as it all kicks off at the Oak, discuss the fallout from the Afcon final and polish their boots...

They also touch on Mo Salah, Erling Haaland, Sadio Mane and Pep Guardiola.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone.

Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation, is on a mission to save the beautiful game...

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed

Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton

Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside

Photography: Rob Nicholson

Executive Producer: Dino Sofos

Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton

Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background: Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

Hosts of the podcast:

Steve Bracknall Assistant manager at Royal Oak FC, Steve Bracknall is to many the lifeblood of the club. Having agreed to front the club in terms of marketing and PR, Steve is the link between the fans and the club. No one cares about the Oak like Steve. Loving husband to Our Nikki and doting father to Our Olivia, come Sunday Steve is transformed into a passionate assistant who would literally die for the cause. He cites man management as his strong point.

Paul Sampson First team manager and lifelong friend of Steve Bracknall. Paul originally formed the club with Steve. In recent years his commitment to the club has come under scrutiny especially after buying a timeshare in Tenerife and going on multiple golfing trips mid-season leaving Steve to hold the fort. He still has the final say over any tactical decisions that are made much to the annoyance of Steve.

Bob the Bucket Club physio and general caretaker Bob the Bucket has been with the club for over ten years. No one really knows why and when he joined but he did. General job roles include putting up nets, filling water bottles alongside prevention and rehab of all Oak players.

In this week's episode Steve, Paul and Bob deal with the fallout of Wynney moving to their biggest rivals, ask if Arsenal are bottling it and dispense advice to their young selves.

The chaps give their verdict on who will win the SPL between Rangers, Celtic and Hearts.

They also look at all the latest involving footballers such as Bruno Fernandes, Jude Bellingham, Matheus Cunha and Cole Palmer.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone.

Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation, is on a mission to save the beautiful game...

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background: Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

Hosts of the podcast:

Steve Bracknall Assistant manager at Royal Oak FC, Steve Bracknall is to many the lifeblood of the club. Having agreed to front the club in terms of marketing and PR, Steve is the link between the fans and the club. No one cares about the Oak like Steve. Loving husband to Our Nikki and doting father to Our Olivia, come Sunday Steve is transformed into a passionate assistant who would literally die for the cause. He cites man management as his strong point.

Paul Sampson First team manager and lifelong friend of Steve Bracknall. Paul originally formed the club with Steve. In recent years his commitment to the club has come under scrutiny especially after buying a timeshare in Tenerife and going on multiple golfing trips mid-season leaving Steve to hold the fort. He still has the final say over any tactical decisions that are made much to the annoyance of Steve.

Bob the Bucket Club physio and general caretaker Bob the Bucket has been with the club for over ten years. No one really knows why and when he joined but he did. General job roles include putting up nets, filling water bottles alongside prevention and rehab of all Oak players.

The fallout from Wynney’s defection to Nags Head continues, with Steve filing a complaint to the Imperial League and imposing firestick sanctions.

In football news, the lads share their Champions League predictions, debate whether Wrexham’s playoff push is truly a fairytale, and react to Ian Holloway’s latest rant — asking the question: has he gone Full Metal Bracknall?

Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane and Maradona all feature in another packed edition as the lads continue their mission to save our beautiful game...

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background: Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

Hosts of the podcast:

Steve Bracknall Assistant manager at Royal Oak FC, Steve Bracknall is to many the lifeblood of the club. Having agreed to front the club in terms of marketing and PR, Steve is the link between the fans and the club. No one cares about the Oak like Steve. Loving husband to Our Nikki and doting father to Our Olivia, come Sunday Steve is transformed into a passionate assistant who would literally die for the cause. He cites man management as his strong point.

Paul Sampson First team manager and lifelong friend of Steve Bracknall. Paul originally formed the club with Steve. In recent years his commitment to the club has come under scrutiny especially after buying a timeshare in Tenerife and going on multiple golfing trips mid-season leaving Steve to hold the fort. He still has the final say over any tactical decisions that are made much to the annoyance of Steve.

Bob the Bucket Club physio and general caretaker Bob the Bucket has been with the club for over ten years. No one really knows why and when he joined but he did. General job roles include putting up nets, filling water bottles alongside prevention and rehab of all Oak players.

This week we delve into the latest news around our Imperial League Cup quarter final as the game has been moved to a neutral venue; Wynney's cup-tie controversy and The Nags Head coming into form.

In footballing news, the team chat about a miserable Sheffield Derby day, Arteta's stress levels, compare James Milner's record number of appearances to Parksey's and discuss whether Oliver Glasner needs to go now...

Virgil Van Dijk, John Terry and Pep Guardiola are all discussed in another packed edition; as the lads continue their mission to save our beautiful game...

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

This week we take a trip to the draw of the Imperial League Cup as the Royal Oak will play bitter rivals The Nags Head. Steve breaks down his tactical approach and how he plans on creating a cauldron of intimidation...

In sporting news, the lads chat EFL playoff expansion, Thomas Tuchel's England contract, the Winter Olympics and Forest's managerial merry go round...

Harry Kane, Carlos Tevez and Wayne Rooney are all discussed in another packed edition; as the lads continue their mission to save our beautiful game...

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

This week we explore the VAR madness in the blockbuster game between Liverpool and Manchester City, the Oak continue their 'dialogue' with the Imperial League and Bob has a secret admirer...

In sporting news, there’s chat about the Six Nations after Paul’s trip to Twickers with a load of rugby ‘lads' in blue jeans and brown shoes, they weigh in on the Scholes, Gerrard, Lampard debate, Super Bowl halftime shows and Steve appoints himself as an Olympic ambassador.

Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham and Paul Scholes all feature in another packed edition as the lads continue their mission to save our beautiful game...

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Background: Royal Oak FC was founded in 1997 in the back room of the Royal Oak pub by Steve Bracknall and Paul Sampson. Despite decades of effort, the team still fights for survival in the fifth tier of the Sheffield Sunday Imperial League. When a viral clip catapulted Steve to fame in 2024, the BBC came calling - and Game’s Gone was born.

Hosts of the podcast:

Steve Bracknall Assistant manager at Royal Oak FC, Steve Bracknall is to many the lifeblood of the club. Having agreed to front the club in terms of marketing and PR, Steve is the link between the fans and the club. No one cares about the Oak like Steve. Loving husband to Our Nikki and doting father to Our Olivia, come Sunday Steve is transformed into a passionate assistant who would literally die for the cause. He cites man management as his strong point.

Paul Sampson First team manager and lifelong friend of Steve Bracknall. Paul originally formed the club with Steve. In recent years his commitment to the club has come under scrutiny especially after buying a timeshare in Tenerife and going on multiple golfing trips mid-season leaving Steve to hold the fort. He still has the final say over any tactical decisions that are made much to the annoyance of Steve.

Bob the Bucket Club physio and general caretaker Bob the Bucket has been with the club for over ten years. No one really knows why and when he joined but he did. General job roles include putting up nets, filling water bottles alongside prevention and rehab of all Oak players.

This week we finally hear the other side of the story from Wynney, after his deadline day defection to bitter rivals The Nags Head. Steve looks into the streaming rights for the cup game and gets some good news from his striker Tommy.

In footballing news, the lads explore the latest VAR developments, cover Lionel Messi’s potential visit to the White House and give some advice to Eddie Hearn on betrayal.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

This week we receive an injury update as one of the Royal Oak's key players Tommy has injured himself at work. Like Beckham's metatarsal in 2002, will he able to get fit in time for the big clash with the Nags Head? Bob has some old school ideas to get him fit, whilst Paul suggests some more modern methods...

In footballing news, the lads need your help with chants for the big game, chat about the introduction of VAR into the latter stages of the FA Cup and call out Manchester United legends Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Roy Keane. They also discuss the likelihood of an Oak relegation battle and having your tea with Harry Kane.

Mo Salah, Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi all feature in another packed edition; as the lads continue their mission to save our beautiful game. You can also hear Wynney's interview IN FULL first on the BBC Sounds app, where it'll be dropping Monday 16th March.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions, chants and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

This week, Steve turns detective as we discover the real reason behind striker Tommy's recent injury. Ahead of the big Easter Sunday clash with the Nags Head, we talk tactics, Paul Sampson's plans to sponsor the big game and substitute Housey drops in...

Steve and Bob also send out a heartfelt appeal to the fanbase - can YOU subscribe and show your support to the powers that be? A live stream of the big game may well depend on it.

In footballing news, the lads look at the rise of teenage prodigy Max Dowman, have a pop at celebrity owners, and dissect the pre-match routine of Liam Rosenior's Chelsea - plus the chants you've sent in are sung loud and proud...

Declan Rice, Ryan Giggs, and Snoop Dogg all feature in another packed edition, as the lads continue their mission to save our beautiful game...

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions, chants and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

In this special bonus episode we hear the full Wynney tapes as Matt Wynne explains more about his move from the Royal Oak to the Nags Head.

Interviewed by BBC Radio Sheffield's Senior Sports Journalist Rob Staton, we get the latest ahead of the blockbuster Easter Sunday tie between the Oak and the Nag's Head, and learn more about Wynne's relationship with Nag's Supremo Brian Marshall.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket.

Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions, chants and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 783199

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

In a very special episode, we go behind the scenes of the Easter Sunday clash between the Royal Oak and Nags Head. From the team bus to the sidelines, we follow Steve, Paul and Bob across the fixture with exclusive access.

Following their heroic 2-1 defeat, we have all the analysis and fallout from Tommy's penalty heartbreak, ringers playing like Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland plus Wylie's injury time miss.

Join us for all the intel on the biggest clash in Sunday league history...

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions, chants and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Commentary: Adam Oxley and Lee Turnbull Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

The big one is almost here. Steve, Paul and Bob are in full match mode as they count down to the blockbuster clash with the Nags Head - running through preparations, plans, programme notes and giving a look at training. Plus, voicenotes arrive from some very surprising places...

Watch it live: Royal Oak vs Nags Head — 5th April, Easter Sunday, 2pm BST, right here on the Game's Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast YouTube channel. You can also listen via the BBC Sounds app on Sports Extra 3 and BBC Radio Sheffield.

In wider football news, the lads bid farewell to Mo Salah, discuss Real Madrid's rehab methods, and debate plans for the World Cup.

Salah, Mbappe and Ronaldo all feature in another packed edition as the lads continue their mission to save our beautiful game.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions, chants and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Momentous news this week - as the powers that be confirm that the Easter Sunday clash between the Royal Oak and Nags Head WILL be live streamed on the Game’s Gone YouTube Channel! With live commentary also available on BBC Sounds.

We have all the reaction and info you’ll need as the fanbase mobilises ahead of the biggest game in Sunday League history.

Steve, Paul and Bob also go Full Bielsa as they spy on the Nags Head, float the idea of a performance bonus and we get a fitness update from Bob The Bucket on injury doubt Tommy.

In footballing news the team review the League Cup Final, talk about the fallout around Morocco being belatedly crowned AFCON Champions, and discuss the woes of Newcastle and Spurs.

Mikel Arteta, Gazza, Frank Lampard and Sly Stallone all feature in another packed edition, as the lads continue their mission to save our beautiful game.

Don't miss the Royal Oak vs Nags Head, 2pm on Easter Sunday, April 5th, Live and Exclusive on the Games Gone YouTube Channel...

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions, chants and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

The fallout from the Derby clash continues and The Royal Oak is in turmoil.

Steve's in charge (sort of), Bob's his assistant (sort of), and Parksey's the new physio. Join them as they discuss their new roles, divvy up responsibilities and hear from fans around the world - but are they truly together as one?

In wider sports news, they also discuss the title races in England and Scotland, Rory McIlroy's Masters triumph and Thierry Henry’s aftershave.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

The prodigal manager Paul Sampson returns to the Royal Oak FC hot seat with some demands.

In this episode they discuss plans to turn around the club's fortunes and listen to Paul's demands for change; which mainly involves Bob The Bucket going on a physio course. Someone's also got to break the news to Parksey that his interim reign is over.

In the wider football world, the lads dig into the clash between Gabriel and Erling Haaland, raise a glass to Coventry City on their promotion, and cast an eye over the increasingly frantic non-league promotion race. There's also the small matter of Vincent Kompany apparently raiding Bracknall's wardrobe and Paolo Di Canio headbutting a table during Italian Champions League coverage.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Paul Sampson comes bearing bad news - Mick Merchant has docked the Oak 5 points for an administrative error. Steve is livid as the fallout from his disastrous interim reign continues and his team now looks like it's plunged into a relegation battle.

In this episode, the lads also hear from a disappointed Parksey, chat through Housey's conspiracy theories, and plan a big day out at the Snooker.

In the wider sporting world, we look at the titanic Non-League promotion race between York City and Rochdale, consider West Ham and Spurs for the drop and inspired by the London Marathon get running with Bob The Bucket. Paolo Maldini, Kevin Pressman and Matt Le Tissier all feature in another packed edition...

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

After Steve's administrative foul-up last week, The Royal Oak are in the middle of a full-blown relegation crisis. How will they fare against local rivals "Medics & Dentals" in another vital six-pointer? The team also checks in on the wellbeing of captain Tommy and takes a trip to the Snooker World Championship final.

In a piping hot new feature, Bob The Bucket shows off his pie-eating talents - will Paul and Steve catch him out with some surprise fillings?

We bid a happy birthday to Sir David Attenborough, show off some tattoos and hear from a very unwelcome visitor in another packed edition of Game's Gone.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Series Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

The relegation battle is reaching breaking point - and Paul has just made the most unpopular executive decision of the season: cancelling the Oak's end of season Presentation Night. Steve and Bob are devastated as their very own Met Gala is postponed...

Across town at the Nags Head, Wynney picks up a suspension for the final, and Parksey has been getting highly creative in the tattooist's chair.

In the wider world of football we dig into the chaos surrounding that VAR call in West Ham vs Arsenal and Southampton's alleged spying on Middlesborough. We also give Rochdale the flowers they deserve, and look at all the goings-on between Barcelona and Real Madrid with the rumoured return of the special one for a second tenure - not Paul Sampson, but Jose Mourinho.

Harry Kane, John Terry, Marcus Rashford and Roy Keane all feature in another packed edition of your favourite footballing podcast.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Series Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Paul Sampson has done it again. With the most important game of the season on the line, he's packed his bags for Paris. Typical.

Step forward Wynney - no longer of The Nags Head, and ready to fill the void as he slowly recovers. But can two arch rivals really set aside their history? In this episode Steve and Wynney attempt to clear the air - tackling Brian Marshall's player outreach, being barred from the Oak, providing intel on the Nags Head, and the lingering question on everyone's lips: is there a way back for Wynney?

Plus: a recap of the end of season livestream, emotional Premier League farewells, Hull's promotion to the big time, and calls for the Champions League final to be free-to-air.

Cole Palmer, Harry Maguire, Mo Salah and David Beckham all feature in another packed edition of your favourite footballing podcast.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Series Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Janathan Portelli Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

There's a positive twist in the Oak's relegation crisis as Paul shares the good news that the club's points deduction has been reduced. They're now only one point away from safety, thanks to a successful call with the Imperial League's Mick Merchant.

You know what this means... Presentation Night is back on! Spoiler alert if you're an Oak player, as they reveal the winners of the illustrious trophies Paul has sourced - it's practically the Ballon d'Or.

And there's further good news, Wynney looks poised to make a full recovery after a recent accident. Could this be the beginning of a long road back for him and Steve?

In a bumper week for the Premier League, two thirds of the Royal Oak management congratulate Arsenal on their title win and with Pep Guardiola set to leave Manchester City, Steve admits that maybe Pep's actually quite good at what he does...

They also cover Celtic's dramatic victory over Hearts as Martin O'Neill's side secured the Scottish Premiership title, Man City's FA Cup triumph over Chelsea at Wembley and Ian Beale look-a-like Bob the Bucket shares his favourite soaps.

Tune in to a live Premier League watchalong of the final day of the season, exclusively on the Game's Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast YouTube channel - Join Steve, Paul and Bob from 4pm BST on the 24th May as they react to all the action as it unfolds.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

We're dropping this one early - a special full length preview episode looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup...

The lads have entered the Royal Oak sweepstake - but Steve's hopes of glory takes an immediate hit when he draws the mighty Uzbekistan. Bob and Paul go in on the eternal debate: what do we actually think about casual fans down the pub? And Steve has discovered a new passion in life - brisket barbecues.

We take a closer look at England's possible route to the final. Can Harry Kane's Three Lions battle through the heat in the United States, Canada and Mexico to go all the way? Steve, as ever, has absolutely no doubts. And will Scotland suprise a few people with their first appearance at the finals since 1998.

The boys also weigh in on who'll claim the Golden Boot, pick their dark horses for the tournament, and settle - once and for all - the greatest rivalry in football: Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo. Plus, Bob the Bucket is back with another quiz to sort the true fans from the also rans.

Join us every Thursday throughout the summer for World Cup-themed episodes and keep an eye out for bonus livestreams taking you right to the heart of the tournament.

Pelé, Erling Haaland, Diego Maradona, Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamal, Shakira and Peter Reid all feature in another packed edition of Games Gone.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp at 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Series Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor: Janathan Portelli Additional Editing and Artwork: Joe Whittaker and Lottie Steele Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Steve has a bombshell revelation - he's throwing caution (and his little remaining annual leave) to the wind and travelling to this summer's World Cup!

After some initial shock, Paul and Bob start to make plans for some very special episodes and livestreams which will take you to the heart of the action.

We also discuss Paul's return from Paris, how the Nags Head got on in their cup final, request a new club anthem and note all of the positive reaction to Tommy's video on social media this week.

To whet our appetites for the World Cup, we also took a trip to Manchester where we managed to talk to BBC Sport's Alan Shearer, Wayne Rooney, Steph Houghton and Kelly Cates.

Managerial changes at Liverpool, the fallout from Arsenal's loss in the Champions League, and Mick Jagger all feature in another packed edition of the podcast.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Direct from the dressing room of his team, Royal Oak FC, Steve is joined by gaffer Paul Sampson and physio Bob the Bucket. Every episode, they’ll make sense of all the week’s footballing news and bring you updates from the Oak…

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Marching on, together as one. Steve.

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Series Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor/Artwork: Matt Exton Additional Editing: Janathan Portelli, Joe Whittaker and Jack Whiteside Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Steve Bracknall's landed in Dallas - brisket in one hand, cowboy hat in the other - and seen winning starts from both England and Scotland. He brings us post match reaction to England vs Croatia, and his fans eye view of all of the World Cup action.

Back home and joining remotely, Bob refuses to stay up for the late kick-offs and Paul's plotting his move from Sampson Electrics into sports broadcasting. Our Nikki gives her verdict on Steve's new Cowboy look and plans are made for bin day...

On the footballing agenda this week: water breaks in air-conditioned stadiums, England's kit drama, James Corden and Steve's unfiltered verdict on American sports coverage.

Pelé, Lionel Messi, Harry Kane, Diego Maradona and Michael Portillo all turn up in another packed edition of Game's Gone.

Join us every Thursday throughout the summer for World Cup-themed episodes and keep an eye out for bonus livestreams taking you right to the heart of the tournament.

VAR. XG. Inverted wing backs. The game has well and truly gone. Via his very own podcast, Steve Bracknall, Sunday league assistant manager and viral sensation will bring it back.

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997 Marching on, together as one. Steve. Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Series Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Producer/Editor: Janathan Portelli Additional Editing and Artwork: Joe Whittaker and Lottie Steele Assistant Producer: Harriet Webster Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard

Steve's American Road Trip rolls on - this week he's in Boston, necking the local beer and watching England take on Ghana. He swings by Graceland, gets stuck into some properly oversized American food, and brings us up to speed on all the World Cup news... . Back home, Bob takes Steve's lawnmower for an unauthorised spin, and Paul's got some shocking news from Sampson Electrics.

The lads run the rule over the Golden Boot race, weigh up Scotland's chances, show some love to underdogs Cape Verde, and size up football's managerial heavyweights from Ancelotti to Advocaat - but could any of them do it on a Tuesday night in the Imperial League?

Marcelo Bielsa, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi all get a mention in another packed edition of Games Gone.

We’re releasing special World Cup-themed episodes every Thursday across the tournament, and you can also tune into a BONUS live stream reacting to the group stages via the Game’s Gone YouTube channel this Sunday 28th June at 2PM.

Send your questions and voice notes to steve@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp 0800 7831997

Game’s Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast is written and performed by Chris McClure and is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Credits

Series Producer: Ad Ahmed Video Editor: Janathan Portelli Artwork: Joe Whittaker Technical Producer: Jasper Fell-Clark Assistant Producer: Harriet Webster Photography: Rob Nicholson Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Executive for the BBC: Stevie Middleton Assistant Commissioner for the BBC: Steve Trenchard