Explore every episode of the podcast On The Spot Football Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| In conversation with Eddie Patterson | 01 Oct 2026 | 01:59:08 | |
What a journey through Irish League football — and what an episode! 🎙️⚽ Eddie Patterson joins Johnny McMurray on the On the Spot Football Podcast for a brilliant conversation covering his life as a player, coach and manager. From growing up supporting Cliftonville and eventually pulling on the shirt himself, to managing the club, competing in Europe, reaching cup finals and helping develop some outstanding young talent. Eddie also takes us inside his time at Glentoran, the financial challenges he inherited, rebuilding the squad and that memorable Irish Cup triumph. 🏆 There are stories about Liam Boyce, Joe Gormley, Chris Scannell, Jordan Stewart and many more, along with plenty of behind-the-scenes stories from a lifetime in the Irish League. | |||
| In conversation with John Gregg | 24 Sep 2026 | 01:21:38 | |
What a football life. What a story. And what an episode! 🎙️⚽ John Gregg joins Johnny McMurray on the On the Spot Football Podcast for a fascinating conversation covering his life growing up surrounded by football, his own playing career and his passion for coaching. John shares incredible memories of growing up as the son of Manchester United and Northern Ireland legend Harry Gregg, being around some of the biggest names in the game, before forging his own path through Barnsley, Norway and the Irish League. From Glenavon, Coleraine, Ballymena United and Cliftonville to his journey into coaching and his current involvement with the Ballymena United first-team setup — there are brilliant stories, laughs and some very personal memories along the way. | |||
| In conversation with Demi Vance | 17 Sep 2026 | 01:13:16 | |
What a journey. What a career. And what a conversation! 🎙️⚽ Demi Vance joins Johnny McMurray on the On the Spot Football Podcast to tell her story — from being the only girl playing in a boys’ league to becoming a Northern Ireland international and playing at the Euros. Demi talks Glentoran, Rangers, Leicester City, Australia, overcoming an ACL injury, the realities of full-time football, and the highs and difficult moments of an international career that has seen her earn an incredible 96 caps for Northern Ireland. There’s plenty of honesty, laughs and brilliant stories throughout this one! 🔥 | |||
| In conversation with Albert Watson | 10 Sep 2026 | 01:34:55 | |
What a career. What a story. And what an episode! 🎙️⚽ Albert Watson joins Johnny McMurray on the On the Spot Football Podcast for a brilliant look back at his journey through the game. From making his Ballymena United debut at just 16 and spending nine years at the Showgrounds, to Linfield, winning trophies, European football and an incredible adventure across the Atlantic playing in Canada and America. Albert also takes us through the later chapters of his career, including his time with Larne and Carrick Rangers, before bringing the story right up to the present day with Newry City. He talks about the managers who shaped him, the characters he shared changing rooms with, the setbacks, successes and experiences that made his career what it was — with plenty of brilliant stories and laughs along the way! | |||
| In conversation with Stewarty Nixon | 03 Sep 2026 | 01:10:48 | |
Stewarty Nixon joins Johnny McMurray for a brilliant new episode of the On the Spot Football Podcast. 🎙️⚽ From growing up as a ball boy at the Ballymena Showgrounds dreaming of playing on that pitch, to making his first-team debut and building a career across the Irish League, Stewarty tells his story. He opens up about the highs, the lows, European football, serious injury, mental battles, friendships, loss and the decisions he's made to put happiness and enjoying football first. There are plenty of laughs along the way too! | |||
| In conversation with Bertnal Thompson | 27 Aug 2026 | 01:33:07 | |
Bertnel Thompson joins Johnny McMurray on the On the Spot Football Podcast for an episode packed with memories from a lifetime behind the scenes in Irish League football. From his early days at Linfield to almost three decades at Ballymena United, Bertnel takes us inside the dressing room for the cup finals, European adventures, legendary characters and moments supporters never got to see. There are plenty of laughs, some incredible stories and, yes... the tissues make another appearance! 🥹 This is more than football. It’s about friendships, family and the people who make the game special. | |||
| In conversation with Jamie Robinson | 13 Aug 2026 | 01:20:59 | |
What is it really like to be a football referee? This week on the On the Spot Football Podcast, top referee Jamie Robinson joins Johnny McMurray for a fascinating and honest conversation about life in the middle. From starting his refereeing journey at just 13 years old to officiating at the highest levels of the game, Jamie opens up on the pressure of big decisions, dealing with criticism from players and fans, VAR, life as a UEFA referee, and his exciting move to England. Expect incredible behind-the-scenes stories, honest opinions, plenty of laughs, and a unique insight into a side of football that fans rarely get to hear. 🎧 Watch now on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major podcast platforms. Don't forget to Like, Comment, Share and Subscribe. 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios | |||
| In conversation with Cliffy Adams | 06 Aug 2026 | 01:13:48 | |
He's one of the most respected coaches in the Irish League... Now Cliffy Adams joins the On the Spot Football Podcast for an unforgettable conversation. From his time at Ballymena United, Ballyclare Comrades and Portadown, to taking charge at Dundela, Cliffy shares the stories, challenges and moments that have defined his football journey. In this episode, he opens up about: A powerful episode filled with football, laughter, honesty and real life. 🎧 Watch now on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major podcast platforms. Don't forget to Like, Comment, Share and Subscribe. 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios | |||
| In conversation with George Dunlop | 30 Jul 2026 | 01:29:21 | |
From Manchester City to the 1982 FIFA World Cup... From rebuilding his career at Ballymena United to becoming a Linfield legend... George Dunlop joins the On the Spot Football Podcast to share the incredible story behind one of the finest goalkeeping careers in Irish League history. He opens up on: This is a must-watch for every football fan. 🎧 Watch now on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major podcast platforms. Don't forget to Like, Comment, Share and Subscribe. 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios | |||
| In conversation with Alan Fraser | 23 Jul 2026 | 01:31:39 | |
The wait is over!This week on the On the Spot Football Podcast, we sit down with one of the most respected figures in Irish League football.From making his debut at just 16 years old, to unforgettable European nights against Manchester City, league titles, Irish Cup success, and managing some of the biggest clubs in the country—this is a fascinating conversation packed with incredible stories from a lifetime in football.If you love the history of the Irish League, behind-the-scenes dressing room stories, and honest football conversation, this episode is not to be missed.🎧 Watch now on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major podcast platforms.Don't forget to Like, Comment, Share and Subscribe to help us bring you more great Irish League stories every week.📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios🎥 Produced by Arkmedia | |||
| In conversation with Scott Young | 16 Jul 2026 | 02:49:01 | |
This week, Johnny McMurray sits down with Glentoran legend Scott Young for one of the most powerful conversations we’ve ever recorded.Scott reflects on an incredible football journey that saw him win league titles, cup finals and become one of the Irish League’s most respected figures. He opens up about the career-ending injury that changed his life, the pressures of management, and the incredible highs and lows of football.Away from the game, Scott also speaks with remarkable honesty about the devastating loss of his wife, how he coped through the darkest period of his life, and the strength, family and friendships that helped him keep moving forward.This is far more than a football podcast—it’s an inspiring story of resilience, perspective and never giving up.🎧 Watch and listen now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and all major platforms.📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios.🎥 Produced by Arkmedia. | |||
| In conversation with Darius Roohi | 09 Jul 2026 | 01:12:30 | |
This week, Johnny McMurray sits down with one of the most influential figures in Northern Ireland futsal. Darius Roohi shares his incredible journey from local football to representing Northern Ireland on the international stage, competing in the UEFA Futsal Champions League, qualifying for the UEFA Futsal Main Round, and playing for Hashtag United in the USA. He explains why futsal is growing so rapidly, how it is helping to develop the next generation of footballers, and why more clubs should embrace the game. From grassroots development to elite international competition, this is a fascinating conversation packed with insight, passion and plenty of stories. 🎧 Watch and listen now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and all major platforms. | |||
| In conversation with Gary Haveron | 02 Jul 2026 | 02:05:04 | |
This week, Johnny McMurray sits down with one of the most respected figures in Irish League football. From chasing the dream in England with Wolves, Bolton, Swindon and Yeovil, to captaining clubs in the Irish League and now leading from the dugout, Gary Haveron reflects on an incredible football journey. He opens up about the highs and lows of professional football, the importance of family, dealing with setbacks, leadership, management, and the lessons that have shaped him both on and off the pitch. An honest, inspiring and fascinating conversation packed with football stories from start to finish. 🎧 Watch and listen now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and all major platforms | |||
| In conversation with Gerard Lawlor | 25 Jun 2026 | 01:42:58 | |
This week on the On The Spot Football Podcast, Johnny McMurray sits down with NIFL CEO Gerard Lawlor for one of the most open and insightful conversations we’ve had yet. From the future of Irish League football and the push towards professionalism, to VAR, Friday night fixtures, league restructuring, sponsorship, investment and supporter criticism, Gerard tackles the biggest talking points head on. He explains the thinking behind some of the league’s most debated decisions and shares his vision for where Irish League football can go in the years ahead. Whether you’re a supporter, player, coach or club official, this episode offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and opportunities facing the game in Northern Ireland. 🎧 Watch and listen now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and all major platforms | |||
| In conversation with Ian Clarke | 11 Jun 2026 | 01:21:54 | |
This week on the On The Spot Football Podcast, Johnny McMurray sits down with Ian Clarke for a fascinating and candid discussion on Glentoran Football Club’s journey over the last 25 years. From supporting the club as a young fan to serving as Media Officer, Director and General Manager, Ian offers a unique insight into some of the biggest moments in the club’s modern history. He discusses financial struggles, managerial changes, boardroom decisions, takeovers, Irish Cup triumphs, near misses, and the challenges of trying to restore one of the biggest clubs in Irish League football to the top. An episode packed with stories, honesty and behind-the-scenes insight that every Irish League supporter will enjoy. 🎧 Watch and listen now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and all major platforms | |||
| In conversation with Tom Sloan | 04 Jun 2026 | 01:39:00 | |
From representing Northern Ireland and spending time at Manchester United as a youngster, to battling injuries, setbacks and the mental side of football — Tom Sloan joins Johnny McMurray for a brilliant and brutally honest conversation ⚽🔥 Tom opens up on academy football, chasing the professional dream, dressing room realities, and the moments that nearly made him walk away from the game altogether 👀 A top episode packed with stories, honesty and proper football chat from start to finish. 🎧 Watch and listen now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and all major platforms | |||
| In conversation with Jonny Frazer | 28 May 2026 | 01:30:17 | |
This week on the On The Spot Football Podcast, Johnny McMurray sits down with Jonny Frazer for one of the funniest and most honest chats yet. From coming through at Linfield, loan spells and Irish League football, to almost starting a new life in Australia, Jonny shares stories from across a career that took plenty of twists and turns. Packed with dressing room stories, football memories and plenty of laughs throughout, this is an episode football fans won’t want to miss. 🎧 Watch and listen now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and all major platforms | |||
| In conversation with Adam Harwood | 21 May 2026 | 00:51:09 | |
This week on On The Spot Football Podcast, Johnny McMurray sits down with Adam Harwood for a brilliant conversation covering his football journey from Glenavon to Dundee United, his time in Scottish football, stepping away from playing, and life behind the camera with Glentoran. Adam also opens up on the growth of media in the Irish League, the direction of Glentoran, and whether a return to football could still be on the cards 👀⚽ 🎧 Watch and listen now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and all major platforms | |||
| Mental Health Week Special | Walk A Mile In My Boots I Man On | 14 May 2026 | 00:31:15 | |
For Mental Health Week, Johnny McMurray sits down with Jenny McClure, Danny McClenaghan, Justin Ritchie and Jeffrey Montgomery for a series of honest and powerful conversations around mental health, football, and the impact of both the Walk A Mile In My Boots campaign and the Man On programme ❤️⚽ From personal struggles and recovery journeys to creating safe spaces through football, each guest shares their own story ahead of Saturday’s huge event at Mourneview Park 👏 📍 Mourneview Park | |||
| In conversation with Dylan McGeouch | 07 May 2026 | 01:35:32 | |
This week on the On The Spot Football Podcast, Johnny McMurray sits down with former Celtic, Hibernian, Sunderland and Aberdeen midfielder Dylan McGeouch ⚽From making the controversial move from Celtic to Rangers as a youngster, to sharing the pitch with Cristiano Ronaldo and some of the biggest names in world football, Dylan opens up on the highs, pressures, setbacks and realities of life at the top level.A brilliant football chat packed with honest stories, big moments and top insight from a player who’s seen it all 👏🎧 Available NOW on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and all major platforms📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios🎥 Produced by Arkmedia | |||
| In conversation with Michael Carvill | 30 Apr 2026 | 01:54:14 | |
A massive episode packed with real insight, honest opinions and stories from both on and off the pitch ⚽From winning at the highest level in the Irish League to working behind the scenes to support players across the country, this one dives deep into the realities of football that fans don’t always see 👀No filter, no holding back – just real talk about the game, the pressures, and what it actually takes to succeed and last in football.If you’re involved in the game in any way… this is a must listen 🎧🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and all major platforms📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios🎥 Produced by Arkmedia | |||
| In conversation with Chris Ramsey | 23 Apr 2026 | 01:45:45 | |
From West Belfast to Manchester City… this is some journey 👀 Scouted by chance. Living the academy life. Sharing dressing rooms with future stars. Then facing the reality of football when it doesn’t quite go to plan. Chris Ramsey opens up on the highs, the setbacks, and the moments that shaped his career – including what he’d do differently if he had his time again. This one is raw, honest and full of insight 🎙️ | |||
| In conversation with Seamus Heath | 16 Apr 2026 | 01:49:12 | |
A no-nonsense, straight-talking insight into football from a man who’s seen it all ⚽ From developing young players the right way to calling out the mistakes holding them back… Seamus Heath doesn’t hold back in this one. Honest, raw and packed with real knowledge for players, coaches and fans alike 👀 If you care about football development – this is a must listen 🎙️ | |||
| In conversation with Stephen O'Flynn | 02 Apr 2026 | 01:29:38 | |
From chasing the dream in England to returning home and facing the reality of football, Stephen opens up on the pressure, timing and tough transitions that shaped his career. A raw and honest insight into balancing football, life and everything in between 👀 🎧 Watch now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple and all major platforms 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios 🎥 Produced by Arkmedia | |||
| In conversation with Guy Bates | 26 Mar 2026 | 01:30:32 | |
From Newcastle United to the Irish League… Guy Bates joins Johnny McMurray on the On the Spot Football Podcast — and it’s one not to miss. From academy life and playing abroad, to honest views on how football has changed, this is a brilliant insight into the game. Real stories. Real opinions. No filter. Watch / Listen now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and all major platforms. 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios 🎥 Produced by Arkmedia | |||
| In conversation with James Knowles | 19 Mar 2026 | 01:39:30 | |
James Knowles joins Johnny McMurray on the On the Spot Football Podcast. From being one of the top young talents with Premier League interest, to his journey through the Irish League, James opens up on big career decisions, criticism, injury setbacks, and the unbelievable moment he missed an Irish Cup Final due to a contract issue — before finally winning it with Dungannon Swifts. A brilliant, honest conversation with plenty of stories throughout. 🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and all major platforms 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios 🎥 Produced by Arkmedia | |||
| In conversation with Ryan Catney | 12 Mar 2026 | 01:14:30 | |
Ryan Catney joins Johnny McMurray on the On the Spot Football Podcast. In this episode, Ryan talks about growing up in West Belfast, moving to England as a teenager, working under Brendan Rodgers, returning home to the Irish League, and being part of Cliftonville’s historic league-winning side. He also opens up about dressing room life, the famous Crusaders leg break, big tackles, red cards, and life after football as he moves into coaching. Watch now on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple and all major platforms. 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios | Produced by Arkmedia | |||
| In conversation with Calum Birney | 05 Mar 2026 | 01:50:24 | |
After over a decade in the Irish League, Calum Birney joins us just weeks after announcing his retirement. In this powerful and personal episode, Calum reflects on: ⚽ His rise from Knockbreda to Glentoran 🏆 Lifting the 2015 Irish Cup 💥 Battling through injuries that shaped — and shortened — his career 🫀 A heart procedure that almost ended it before it began 👋 Why he finally said goodbye to the game at Dundela Raw. Honest. Emotional. This one hits home. | |||
| In conversation with Alan Blayney | 19 Feb 2026 | 01:24:55 | |
From concrete goalposts on the Shore Road to saving shots in the Premier League… this week’s guest has a story like no other.🧤 Former Southampton goalkeeper Alan Blayney opens up about:⚽️ His surreal debut against Newcastle and THAT save of the season🏥 The life-threatening condition that nearly ended it all🇬🇧 The rollercoaster journey through English football and the Irish League🧠 Battling imposter syndrome and rediscovering purpose through coaching and familyThis is a brutally honest and inspiring journey from a keeper who made it to the very top — and back again.📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios🎧 Produced by Arkmedia | |||
| In conversation with Paul McAreavey | 12 Feb 2026 | 01:25:43 | |
PAUL McAREAVEY – A Linfield legend, Irish League champion, and now the man helping drive Ballymacash Rangers forward. From signing with Swindon Town under Steve McMahon to sharing a pitch with legends and lifting trophy after trophy with Linfield, Paul brings stories from every chapter of his footballing life. He talks about:
⚽ Honest, hilarious, emotional and packed with elite insight – Paul McAreavey’s episode is one for every Irish League fan. 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios | Produced by Arkmedia | |||
| In conversation with Dee McAuley | 05 Feb 2026 | 01:10:35 | |
Dee opens up about his struggles with mental health, how alcohol and sleeping tablets took hold during his playing days, and why he suddenly walked away from football in his mid-20s. He speaks candidly about the pressures behind the scenes, the lack of mental health support in the game back then, and losing a close friend to suicide — with a powerful message about opening up and helping others. 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios 🎧 Available now on YouTube, Spotify & all major platforms | |||
| In conversation with Neil Masters | 29 Jan 2026 | 01:22:34 | |
🎙️ NOW LIVE: Neil Masters on the On The Spot Football Podcast In this powerful and deeply personal episode, former footballer Neil Masters opens up about the highs and lows of his journey — from being offered a dream opportunity by Harry Redknapp to facing battles with injury, depression, and life after football. Neil speaks candidly about:
An emotional, eye-opening conversation that reminds us all what really matters — and how footballers are human too. 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios | Produced by Arkmedia 🎧 Available now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major platforms. #NeilMasters #OnTheSpotPodcast #FootballMentalHealth #IrishLeague #HarryRedknapp #LifeAfterFootball #SuicidePrevention #MensMentalHealth #Arkmedia | |||
| In conversation with Kieran O’Connor | 22 Jan 2026 | 01:48:51 | |
In one of our most powerful and honest episodes yet, Kieron O’Connor opens up about his life in football, the reality of coaching kids, and the emotional battles he’s faced off the pitch. ⚽ From signing for Celtic to trials at Bolton Wanderers, Kieron shares never-before-heard stories from his early playing days and the heartbreaking moment he learned that a fellow young player had been murdered – just for playing for Celtic. 💬 He speaks with raw emotion about:
🧠 This one’s about more than football. It’s about trauma, resilience, and the power of purpose. A must-listen for coaches, parents, and anyone who cares about the future of our game. 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios | Produced by Arkmedia 🎧 Available now on Spotify, YouTube & all major podcast platforms | |||
| In conversation with Liam Beckett MBE | 15 Jan 2026 | 01:36:51 | |
We cover it all ⚽ His Irish League playing & managing days 🎤 Broadcasting stories from BBC Radio Ulster 🏍 His deep connection with the Dunlop family & the road racing world 🇬🇧 Being awarded an MBE for services to sport and the community This is one not to miss — raw stories, strong opinions, and that unmistakable Beckett honesty. 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios | Produced by Arkmedia 🎙 Hosted by Jonathan McMurray | |||
| In conversation Keith Bailie | 08 Jan 2026 | 01:08:27 | |
One of the most respected voices in Northern Irish football journalism, Keith Bailie joins On The Spot for a brilliant conversation. We chat: ⚽ The evolving Irish League 💰 Financial power & club success 📉 The struggles of big-name clubs in the 2000s 🗞️ What it’s really like covering the game from the press box 👉 Watch now on YouTube 👉 Listen on Spotify & all platforms 🎧 Presented by Jonathan McMurray 🎥 Filmed & produced by Arkmedia Studios | |||
| In conversation with Pete Snodden | 24 Dec 2025 | 00:55:18 | |
On our Christmas Special of the On The Spot Podcast, we sit down for a festive chat with one of Northern Ireland’s most familiar voices — a man who’s been part of some of the biggest nights at Windsor Park 🎤⚽ From his very first game back in 2008 to becoming the voice of the national stadium, he tells the incredible story of how a football fan from Belfast found himself announcing goals for his country! 💚 🎅 Hosted by Jonathan McMurray 🎥 Produced by Arkmedia 📍 Filmed at Arkmedia Studios | |||
| In conversation with Alan Snoddy | 18 Dec 2025 | 01:27:36 | |
From refereeing in the Irish League at 16 to walking out alongside Maradona at the World Cup, this is not your average football story. In this episode of the On The Spot Football Podcast, Johnny McMurray sits down with Alan Snoddy, the legendary Northern Irish referee who has seen it all – from the Dub, to the World Stage. We talk: • Starting out young & learning the hard way • Refereeing Linfield v Glentoran in front of 15,000 fans • Handling sectarian tensions on the pitch • His World Cup moments – yes, including THAT Diego Maradona match • Why VAR is both a blessing and a curse • The future of refereeing in Northern Ireland • Ref advice, abuse, and what he’d change to save the game • And… the truth behind how he kept his moustache intact through it all A fascinating insight for fans, players, coaches, and future referees. Full interview now live on all major platforms Presented by Johnny McMurray Produced by Arkmedia and filmed at Arkmedia Studios Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe. | |||
| In conversation with Nicola McCarthy | 11 Dec 2025 | 01:26:48 | |
Johnny McMurray is joined by broadcaster, presenter, ex-player and media trailblazer Nicola McCarthy, the first female guest on the podcast — and what an incredible conversation it is. From playing football as a kid with the boys, to presenting for Manchester City during their Premier League glory days, to paving the way for women in sports media, Nicola shares it all. We talk: ✅ The rise of women’s football in Northern Ireland ✅ Playing with and against legends like Marissa Callaghan & Julie Nelson ✅ Behind-the-scenes with Aguero, De Bruyne, Tevez & Kompany ✅ Sacrifices of being a working mum in elite sport ✅ Her passion for the future of the game — and what’s next… It’s funny, emotional, inspiring, and full of stories you won’t want to miss. | |||
| In conversation with Barry Gray | 04 Dec 2025 | 01:57:14 | |
From Mid-Ulster to the Premiership: The Untold Story The next guest on On The Spot Football Podcast is one of Northern Irish football's most fascinating figures. ⚽ The Journey
💼 The Businessman
💪 The Survivor
🔥 "Players were on £50 a week at Cliftonville competing in Europe" 😤 "I had no training facilities, no warm-up gear, and no manager's office at Newry" ⚖️ "The relegation injustice at Warrenpoint - we took it to court" 👥 "We treat players like players. We should treat them like people" 🎯 "The problem with Irish League football? We've missed the people part of it" This isn't just a football story. It's about survival, ambition, making impossible decisions, and what it really takes to succeed with nothing. Now live on all podcast platforms Hosted by Johnny McMurray | |||
| In conversation with Lee Tavinder | 27 Nov 2025 | 01:51:06 | |
Join host Johnny McMurray this Friday as he sits down with retired referee Lee Tavinder for an incredibly candid and powerful conversation.What We Cover: From Player to Referee - Lee's transition from a player to working alongside Premier League officials like Michael Oliver and Anthony Taylor Moving to Northern Ireland - Why Lee left England's refereeing pathway to build a career in the Irish League Inside the Whistle - The reality of refereeing in the Irish League, from dealing with managers to building relationships with players The Josh Carson Incident - Lee's honest admission on social media about a controversial red card decision and the unexpected fallout Mental Health Matters - An incredibly raw and honest discussion about Lee's personal battles with anxiety, depression, and two suicide attempts Finding Hope - How football became both an escape and a support system, and why speaking up can save livesWhy You Need to Listen:This isn't just another refereeing interview. It's a deeply human story about struggle, resilience, and the power of honesty. Lee opens up about topics many still find difficult to discuss, offering hope to anyone facing similar battles. Out now on all podcast platforms Available on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | All major platforms If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for support. You are not alone. | |||
| In conversation with Matthew Clarke | 20 Nov 2025 | 01:08:03 | |
In this honest and heartfelt episode, Matthew Clarke reflects on life in football — from glory days at Linfield to a fresh new chapter at Ballymena United. We cover: ⚽ Winning silverware at Linfield – league titles, cup wins & unforgettable comebacks 💬 The devastating loss of teammate Michael Newberry – and how it deeply impacted him 🔁 Making the move to Ballymena United – why it felt like the right time, and how he’s enjoying his football again 🧠 Pressure, mental health, and learning to love the game on and off the pitch 📆 From his debut to where he is now – this episode is packed with insight, emotion & inspiration Don’t miss this powerful conversation. 📺 Watch on YouTube 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more 🔗 Link in bio | |||
| In conversation with Wesley Lamont | 13 Nov 2025 | 01:16:34 | |
In this powerful and honest conversation, Wesley Lamont opens up about his remarkable journey through the Irish League – a career that started late but left a lasting legacy. 🧤 From making his Irish League debut at 26 to becoming a mainstay at Linfield, Wesley shares:
💬 Real stories. Real lessons. Pure passion. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and all major platforms. | |||
| In conversation with Chris Curran | 06 Nov 2025 | 01:10:07 | |
This week on the On The Spot Football Podcast, we sit down with Chris Curran – Cliftonville legend and fan favourite. From kicking a ball in the back streets to lifting the Irish Cup, Chris opens up like never before: ⚽ His journey into football 🇾🇪 Growing up a Manchester United fan 🏆 Life at Cliftonville and working with Jim Magilton 🧠 The mental side of knowing when to walk away 🎤 And his decision to retire after going out on a high 💥 This one is raw, honest and full of emotion. You don’t want to miss it. 📍 Now streaming on all platforms – YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more | |||
| In conversation with Jim Boyce | 30 Oct 2025 | 01:06:54 | |
From ball boy at Cliftonville to Vice President of FIFA – this episode is full of stories you won’t hear anywhere else. 🏟️ Cliftonville memories, managing through The Troubles ⚽ Winning titles, tough decisions, the Gold Cup glory 🌍 Building Northern Irish football from the ground up 🕰️ The infamous FIFA watch story… and the truth behind it 🧠 Plus, his powerful mission to raise funds for Alzheimer’s and dementia support And yes… the big brown coat makes an appearance 😂 This is football history. This is legacy. This is heart. 📺 Watch now on YouTube 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, Amazon – all platforms 📍 Link in bio | |||
| In conversation with Chris Selwood | 23 Oct 2025 | 01:05:08 | |
“From the Building Site to the Boardroom” From the building site to the boardroom, Chris Selwood is a man not afraid to get his hands dirty. In this powerful and eye-opening episode, the Ballymena United chairman opens up like never before. 🔵 How he went from ball boy to boardroom 💼 Running businesses while steering Ballymena through its toughest times 🏗️ Rebuilding the club from the ground up – literally ⚽ Appointing Jim Ervin, fighting for investment, and surviving relegation 🏟️ Future hopes for the Showgrounds 💬 Honest views on fans, funding, and the challenges of modern Irish League football ❤️ Doing it all for the love of the club, not a penny in return A must-watch for any Irish League supporter. One of our most detailed, honest and passionate conversations yet! | |||
| In conversation with Joe McDonnell | 16 Oct 2025 | 01:21:22 | |
From chasing the dream in England to the emotional crash of coming home, Joe McDonnell shares his powerful, honest, and emotional story. 🎧 Why didn’t he “make it”? 💬 “I wasn’t good enough — and I’m not ashamed to say it.” 🧠 The mental health struggles no one talks about ⚽ The pressure of being a young footballer 🏡 The return home, identity loss & finding purpose again This one is raw, real, and unmissable. | |||
| In conversation with John Garrett | 02 Oct 2025 | 01:20:26 | |
We’re throwing it back to the mid-70s with John Garrett – one of the youngest ever to debut for Linfield, and a Ballymena legend. From jumping fences to watch games at the Showgrounds as a kid… To captaining Northern Ireland under-18s… To going toe-to-toe with George Best, Johan Cruyff & Benfica under the lights… John’s career is packed with unforgettable stories, raw emotion, honesty, and laughs you won’t want to miss. ⚽️ Linfield debut at 16 🏆 20+ major trophies 💙 Playing for his boyhood club Ballymena 🇬🇧 Turning down Arsenal 🎯 The goal that silenced his hometown 😢 Career-ending injury at 30 🙌 Brotherhood, banter & legacy This one is storytelling at its finest. John Garrett – footballer, leader, character. 🎧 Live on all platforms 👉 Follow & subscribe so you don’t miss it! | |||
| In conversation with Marty McDevitt | 25 Sep 2025 | 01:19:19 | |
From GoPro to Goalposts – Marty McDevitt joins the pod! He’s gone viral for diving saves, dodgy mistakes, and pure authenticity. With over 350K followers across platforms, Marty is Northern Ireland’s grassroots goalkeeper turned social media sensation. We talk: 🧤 Playing amateur football with a passion 📱 Growing a huge online audience (even through the hate) 😂 Camera stares, crazy comments & goalkeeping blunders ⚽ The reality behind the GoPro 💬 Real talk on confidence, criticism & mental health 👊 And why he’s just getting started… An honest, funny, inspiring episode with someone who’s built it all from the ground up. 🎧 Available on all platforms – YouTube, Spotify, Apple, Amazon 👉 Follow @onthespotfootballpodcast for more! | |||
| In conversation with Niall Currie | 18 Sep 2025 | 01:40:12 | |
This week’s guest: Niall Currie – Irish League character, former keeper, and now Portadown gaffer with plenty to say! From boots out the window stories to managing on half a pitch, Niall opens up on: ⚽️ His wild journey from Bangor to Glenavon 🎯 Why he regrets not signing for Linfield 🧤 Memories as a young keeper in the Irish League 🚨 The harsh reality of part-time vs full-time football 🏗️ The funding frustrations at Portadown 🧠 Honest talk about pressure, mental health, and the grind of modern management 🔥 And of course – hair dye, flares, and Boom Boom Room nights out 😂 It’s raw, it’s real, it’s full of passion. One of our most honest conversations yet. | |||
| In conversation with Andrew Waterworth | 11 Sep 2025 | 01:38:34 | |
The full conversation with Andrew Waterworth is now streaming on all platforms! From goals and glory to the emotional moment he stepped away from the game, Andrew opens up about the highs, the pressure, and the decision to hang up his boots. A raw, honest, and inspiring episode you don’t want to miss. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music & YouTube. | |||