Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper deep dive into the extraordinary story of Imre Hirschl, the Hungarian who took South American football by storm. In this first part of a two-part series we hear the story of Hirschl's early life, his emigration to South America, and his unexpected rise to coaching fame in Argentina. From starting as a salami salesman to becoming the mastermind behind Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata's success, Hirschl's tale is one of perseverance, innovation, and tactical genius. Tune in to discover the myths, challenges, and triumphs of this unlikely football legend who redefined the game during the early 20th century.

00:00 The Unlikely Beginnings of a Coaching Legend

03:46 The Hungarian Influence on South American Football

07:59 Unraveling the Myths and Realities

09:40 A Journey Through War and Immigration

16:29 The Butcher Turned Football Visionary

21:55 The Mystery of Hirschl's Football Career

24:38 Meeting Béla Guttman and the Next Chapter

26:21 Hirschl's Coaching Journey Begins

28:14 Tactical Innovations and Success

30:21 Challenges and Triumphs in Argentina

31:14 Early Coaching Stint in Brazil

32:42 Struggles and Determination

42:21 Hirschl's Coaching Philosophy

46:48 Building a Winning Team

49:32 Conclusion and Future Prospects

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In this second part on data in football, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue their exploration into how data analytics transformed modern football. This episode delves into Liverpool's remarkable journey using data and how it helped them to win the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020. We take a look at the story behind key figures like Ian Graham and Michael Edwards, exploring their early skepticism, the challenges they faced, and the groundbreaking decisions that followed. Discover how Liverpool's recruitment strategy evolved with data, featuring key transfers such as Sadio Mané, Mohamed Salah, and Andy Robertson. Discover the tensions and synergies between data-driven decisions and traditional football instincts that reshaped Liverpool and influenced their remarkable success under Jürgen Klopp.

00:44 The Role of Data in Football

02:00 Key Figures: Ian Graham and Michael Edwards

03:17 Michael Edwards' Journey

07:18 Early Skepticism and Challenges

12:39 Liverpool's Data Revolution

14:54 Transfer Market Strategies

18:35 Cultural Clashes and Successes

26:24 Ian Graham's Role in Liverpool's Data Revolution

27:42 The Transfer Committee's Struggles and Criticisms

30:23 Jurgen Klopp's Introduction to Data Analytics

35:49 The Impact of Data on Key Signings

42:12 The Evolution and Challenges of Data-Driven Decisions

44:43 The Future of Data in Football

51:47 Conclusion

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper are joined by journalist, broadcaster and author of 'Expected Goals: The story of how data conquered football and changed the game' Rory Smith. In today’s episode we explore the fascinating journey of data analytics in football. From the early days of Charles Reep and Valeriy Lobanovskyi's basic data collection to the revolutionary 1990s that saw a surge in clubs like Liverpool using a data-driven approach under Ian Graham and Michael Edwards to lead to Premier League success. We also look at how clubs like Bolton Wanderers under Sam Allardyce leveraged data to gain a competitive edge and and the cultural shift towards data in football management. Tune in to understand how data played a crucial role in some of the greatest footballing successes of the modern era.

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Rory Smith

00:42 The Evolution of Data in Football

01:29 The Role of Data Collectors

05:04 Prozone and Early Data Pioneers

11:17 The Culture War: Nerds vs. Scouts

12:17 Sam Allardyce: The Unlikely Data Advocate

23:32 Moneyball and Its Impact on Football

27:24 Decision Technology and Early Predictions

28:06 The Role of Data in Football Predictions

28:48 The Fink Tank Column and Its Impact

31:09 Spurs' Missed Opportunity with Data

32:56 Tottenham's Early Adoption of Data Analytics

41:11 Liverpool's Data-Driven Transformation

47:10 The Cultural Shift Towards Data in Football

58:44 The Importance of Communication in Data Utilisation

59:45 Conclusion 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In this second episode of a two-part special, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue their exploration of Lionel Messi's early years, focusing on his journey from 2005 to the cusp of greatness in 2008. This episode delves into pivotal moments such as Messi's breakthrough in Barcelona's first team, his dramatic red card on his Argentina debut, and his developing relationship with key figures like Ronaldinho. We take a look at Messi's significant impact in the Joan Gamper Trophy, his hat-trick against Real Madrid in the El Clásico, and his stunning solo goal against Getafe. The episode also sheds light on the internal struggles and political tensions within Argentina's national team during the 2006 World Cup, and the influence of Barcelona's management in shaping Messi's career path. Join us as explore the trials and triumphs that shaped Messi into one of football's greatest ever.

00:00 Introduction: Messi's Early Brilliance

00:40 Messi's Breakthrough in 2005

01:23 Homesickness

04:00 Argentina Debut: A Rocky Start

09:25 Barcelona's Dilemma

11:31 Rising Star: The Joan Gamper Trophy

13:52 Contract Negotiations and Transfer Rumors

17:34 Messi's Impact in La Liga and Champions League

25:29 Messi's Diet and Lifestyle Concerns

26:11 Injury Setback and Return to Training

27:26 Champions League Final Disappointment

31:22 World Cup 2006: Argentina's Journey

36:07 Quarter-Final Clash with Germany

42:25 Barcelona's Decline and Messi's Rise

46:57 Ronaldinho's Influence and Messi's Future

49:10 Conclusion and Future Prospects

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson delve into Lionel Messi's early years at Barcelona and his rise to stardom. They explore Messi's journey from his initial signing to the club in 2000 to the early recognition of his talent by notable figures like Ronaldinho. The episode highlights Messi's challenges, including his growth hormone treatment and cultural adjustments as a young Argentine in Spain. Key moments such as his interactions with future stars like Gerard Piqué, Cesc Fàbregas, as well as his significant contributions to Barcelona's youth and first teams, which are discussed in detail. This episode covers his early setbacks, first team debut, and eventual triumphs, culminating in his standout performance at the 2005 FIFA U20 World Cup. Join us as we uncover how Messi went from a promising youngster to an emerging superstar at Barcelona. 

00:00 Introduction to the episode

00:40 Messi's Signing and Initial Challenges

01:15 Settling in Barcelona: Cultural and Personal Struggles

05:51 Integration and Early Successes

20:40 Political Chaos and Youth Team Dynamics

23:33 Messi's Rising Star and International Attention

27:06 First Impressions and Early Training

27:39 Debut and Initial Reactions

29:37 Contract Negotiations and Adjustments

32:48 National Team Dilemmas

38:31 Integration into Barcelona's First Team

46:27 Under-20 World Cup and Rising Stardom

51:18 Conclusion and Looking Ahead

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of It Was What It Was, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper delve into the decline of Nottingham Forest following their European Cup victories. This final part of a four-part special looks at the financial turmoil, management struggles, and internal conflicts that marked the club's subsequent years. Join us as we discuss how the relationship between Brian Clough and Peter Taylor deteriorated, the club’s misjudged transfers, and the impact of Clough's growing dependence on alcohol. From the fallouts to the poignant departures, this episode covers the unraveling of a once-glorious team and the tragedy of a fractured partnership.

00:00 Financial Woes and Disappointment

00:50 The Decline Begins

02:32 Unraveling Behind the Scenes

04:18 Transfer Turmoil

09:24 Clough and Taylor's Strained Relationship

14:11 Financial Scandals and Internal Strife

18:05 The Breaking Point

29:03 Clough's Controversial Decisions

32:24 Financial Struggles and Player Transfers

37:18 Clough's Health and Alcohol Issues

45:02 The Breakup with Peter Taylor

48:20 Reflecting on Clough and Taylor's Legacy

51:29 Clough's Changing Management Style

53:43 The Greatest Achievement in European Football

55:28 Conclusion

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of It Was What It Was, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue the story of Brian Clough’s Nottingham Forest, following on from their European Cup victory in the last episode. This third part of a four-part special covers the 1979-80 season, looking at how Forest overcame obstacles both on and off the pitch to claim their second successive European Cup. Within the season there are some highs and lows, from overcoming unexpected challenges, and navigating crucial European fixtures to dealing with internal instability and controversial management methods. From high-profile transfers to unforgettable European nights, tune in to discover how this extraordinary team went on to write another chapter in their illustrious history.

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

01:03 Nottingham Forest's European Campaign Begins

01:28 Key Transfers and Management Decisions

07:47 Unexpected Challenges and Controversies

20:31 European Cup Quarter-Finals

28:52 The Importance of Team Camaraderie

30:19 Challenges and Strategies in European Matches

32:38 Player Management and Injuries

36:23 Prepping for the European Cup Final

42:49 The Final Match Against Hamburg

51:03 Post-Match Reflections and Legacy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of It Was What It Was, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue their deep dive into Brian Clough's transformative tenure at Nottingham Forest. This second part of a four-part special, captures the thrilling journey as Forest ventures into the European Cup, starting from their incredible 5-1 victory over AEK Athens and leading up to their historic final against Malmö. Expect to hear detailed anecdotes and insights revealing Clough's unique management style, key matches and significant strategic decisions, including the controversial but ultimately successful signing of Trevor Francis for a British record fee. Join us to explore how a team from the second division ascended to the pinnacle of European football.

00:28 Introduction to Nottingham Forest's European Journey

01:26 Forest's Rise to European Dominance

01:46 The Quest for the European Cup

03:36 Strategic Moves and Key Decisions

10:02 Facing Liverpool in the European Cup

12:42 The Tactical Genius of Clough and Taylor

26:17 The Aftermath and Moving Forward

26:38 Unbeaten Streak and Chairman Change

27:35 European Cup Drama: Forest vs. AEK Athens

28:19 Clough's Management Style and Larry Lloyd Incident

30:55 Training Anecdotes and Managerial Hypocrisy

37:39 Trevor Francis Joins Forest

40:51 League Cup Final and European Cup Quarter-Finals

42:25 Semi-Final Showdown Against Cologne

48:37 European Cup Final Against Malmö

55:27 Forest Crowned European Champions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper set the stage for Brian Clough’s remarkable journey to becoming manager of Nottingham Forest in this first part of a four-part-special. After his departure from Leeds, Clough takes on the challenge of revitalising a mid-table second division team into a team that dominates English and European football. Clough's reunion with assistant Peter Taylor plays a pivotal role as they sign key players like Peter Shilton and Kenny Burns. This episode looks at the early challenges faced, strategic player signings, and the pivotal moments that laid the groundwork for Nottingham Forest's incredible achievements. Join us as we set the stage for one of football's most astonishing success stories.

01:09 The Rise and Fall of Brian Clough

08:30 Clough's Early Struggles at Nottingham Forest

21:03 Clough's Confrontational Style

24:44 Building the Foundation for Success

27:07 The Clough-Taylor Partnership

27:39 Taylor's Reluctance and Reconciliation

28:52 Building a Winning Team

31:16 The Anglo-Scottish Cup Victory

33:37 Promotion to the Top Flight

34:43 Strengthening the Squad

36:33 Clough's England Manager Candidacy

42:11 A Defensive Strategy for Success

46:46 Winning the League and Beyond

52:15 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson delve into Manchester United’s 1985-86 season - a campaign filled with promise, passion, and ultimately, heartbreak.

A year that began with soaring hopes and a record-breaking unbeaten run, unravels in a whirlwind of injuries, off-field drama, and missed opportunities. We’ll explore the highs and lows of Ron Atkinson’s final full season in charge, from the electric atmosphere at Old Trafford to the heartbreak of falling short in the title race. Expect in-depth analysis of key matches, player performances, and the pivotal moments that defined the season as Rob and Jonathan relive the excitement, the agony, and the legacy of 1985-86.

00:29 – The 1985-86 Season: High Hopes and Early Promise

01:49 – Ron Atkinson’s Arrival and United’s Managerial History

04:38 – The Big Ron Era: Style, Successes, and Setbacks

08:41 – The Bryan Robson Factor: United’s Dependence

13:23 – Squad Building, Transfers, and Team Dynamics

17:13 – Cup Runs, League Frustrations, and Dressing Room Drama

24:50 – The State of English Football in the Mid-80s

25:59 – The 1985-86 Season Kicks Off

27:50 – United’s Record-Breaking Start

32:41 – The Winning Streak and Early League Dominance

39:13 – Injuries, Draws, and the Beginning of the Decline

43:34 – Mark Hughes’ Transfer Saga and Off-Field Turmoil

47:03 – The Drinking Culture and Its Impact

49:43 – The Collapse: Losing Form and the Title

54:56 – The End of the Atkinson Era

59:18 – The Arrival of Sir Alex Ferguson & Reflections

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast hosted by Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper. In this second episode of a two-part special, we delve into the pivotal moments that lifted the 50-year ban on women's football in England. From the formation of the Women’s Football Association, to looking at the birth of the Lionesses and their first official international match. This episode looks at the pioneering women and their allies who revived the game in the 1960s, building grassroots clubs, fighting for recognition to pave the way for women’s football today. Tune in to hear all about the history of the women’s game.

00:00 The End of the Ban

00:28 Picking Up the Pieces: Women’s Football After the Ban

00:53 The 1960s Revival: Grassroots and New Teams

03:10 The Impact of England’s 1966 World Cup Win

07:54 Building a Movement: Key Figures and Early Clubs

10:56 Struggles for Facilities and Recognition

12:50 International Influence

21:22 The Formation of the Women’s Football Association

24:32 The FA’s Changing Attitude and Official Recognition

27:20 The First Women’s FA Cup and International Competitions

29:40 Tensions: Unofficial vs. Official Tournaments

36:52 The Lost Lionesses: Mexico 1971 and Unrecognised Pioneers

40:26 The First Official Lionesses Game: Scotland vs. England, 1972

45:44 Media Coverage and Social Attitudes

47:44 Timeline: From the First Match to Modern Success

50:08 Reflections: The Legacy of the Pioneers

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to another episode of It Was What It Was with hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper as they delve into the history of The Lionesses and the true story behind the first ever women's Euros. This episode explores the struggles and triumphs of women's football, from the controversial FA ban in 1921, to England's historic victory in the 2025 Euros. Rob and Jonathan look into the pioneering efforts of teams like the Dick, Kerr Ladies and the Manchester Corinthians, looking at how women's football overcame a 50-year ban to shine on the world stage. Join us as we uncover the groundbreaking stories and resilient pioneers behind this incredible journey through a century of women's football history.

00:00 Introduction: Girls and Football

00:51 The Ban on Women's Football

01:37 The Struggle and Triumph of Women's Football

03:02 The Dick, Kerr Ladies and Their Legacy

04:22 The Impact of the FA Ban

07:00 International Tours and Recognition

12:59 Manchester Corinthians: A New Hope

18:34 Cultural Contrasts in Women's Football

20:48 The First Women's Euros: A Hidden History

22:10 The Rise and Fall of the International Ladies Football Association

26:21 Manchester Corinthians: Pioneers of Women's Football

32:21 Missed Opportunities and Reflections

38:44 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper welcome special guest Euan Flynn, author of 'When the Year Ends in One,' to discuss Tottenham Hotspur's momentous 1990-91 season. The episode delves into Paul Gascoigne's tearful departure due to a career-threatening injury during the FA Cup final and the financial turmoil facing the club, which saw a potential world-record transfer deal collapse. The podcast covers the epic highs and disastrous lows of that pivotal season, from Gascoigne's mesmerizing FA Cup run to the behind-the-scenes financial entanglements involving Irving Scholar and the club's eventual acquisition by Alan Sugar. Tune in for an in-depth look at how this season had ramifications far beyond the football pitch.

00:00 Gascoigne's Injury and Tottenham's Financial Crisis

00:37 Introduction to the Special Episode

01:41 The Pivotal 1990-91 Season

02:19 Tottenham's Financial Woes and Ownership Issues

04:03 The Year Ending in One: A Superstition Explained

05:21 Gascoigne's Meteoric Rise and Media Frenzy

08:02 The Illusion of a Title Challenge

10:18 Irving Scholar's Takeover and Financial Missteps

21:13 The Culture and Discipline at Tottenham

23:46 The FA Cup Run Begins

31:36 The Pressure on Young Athletes

32:28 The Semifinal at Wembley

34:00 Venables and the Mysterious Financier

40:34 The FA Cup Final Build-Up

47:23 The Dramatic FA Cup Final

54:36 The Aftermath and Legacy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast.

This week co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson delve into the life of OrestesCorbatta, a legendary Argentine footballer whose story combines brilliance and tragedy. Known for his dazzling dribbling skills and audacious playstyle, Corbatta played a crucial role in Argentina's 1957 Campeonato Sudamericano win. However, despite his football genius, Corbatta's life was marred by alcoholism and personal struggles.

The episode explores his rise from a rural town to becoming a national icon, his struggles with illiteracy, and the personal traumas that impacted his career. Draper and Wilson also discuss the broader significance of Corbatta's style in the context of Argentine football, drawing parallels to legends like Maradona and Messi.

Join us as we remember the poetic yet tragic life of Omar Orestes Corbatta, a player whose legacy continues to influence Argentine football today.

00:00 Introduction

01:31 The Significance of the 1957 Campeonato Sudamericano

04:39 The Evolution of Argentinian Football

09:34 The Five Simbas and Their Impact

16:08 The Role of Radio in Argentinian Football Culture

19:31 The Decline and Shift in Argentinian Football

23:42 The Duality of Argentinian Football: Beauty and Cynicism

26:15 The Tragic Figure of Coba

27:25 Early Life and Struggles

29:49 Rise to Fame and Personal Challenges

33:50 The Decline Begins

38:46 Final Years and Legacy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the Football History podcast hosted by Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper. In this second episode of a two-part special, we explore the life of Mohamed Salah - from winning his third PFA player of the year award, to the pressures and the complex political landscape he navigates in Egypt . We delve into Salah's impact in the UK, his challenging relationship with International football, from rural Egypt to the global stage, Mohamed Salah's journey is as thrilling as it is complex. Join us for an in-depth look at one of the most intriguing figures in modern football.

00:00 Introduction

00:44 Mohamed Salah's Political and Cultural Significance

03:01 The Complexities of Expressing Political Views

05:02 Historical Context: Egypt's Political Landscape

14:19 The Arab Spring and Its Aftermath

24:06 Mohamed Salah's Relationship with the Egyptian National Team

27:40 High Stakes in World Cup Play-offs

28:35 Egypt's Football Legacy and Recent Struggles

29:55 The 2018 World Cup Disappointment

31:56 Controversies and Criticisms

37:59 Political Pressures and Social Media

44:46 Salah's Impact in the UK

49:24 The Ballon d'Or and Future Prospects

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast.

Today, co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson are joined by Ed Aarons from The Guardian to discuss the incredible journey of Mohamed Salah. With the PFA Footballer of the Year awards tonight, Salah's early life and career beginnings are explored in depth. Ed shares his research from travels to Salah's hometown in Egypt, providing unique insights into the challenges Salah faced, including the long commute for training and the support from his family. The episode covers Salah’s initial struggles, his move to Basel, and his eventual breakout that caught the attention of major clubs. Join us to learn how Salah's dedication and hard work paved the way for his renowned career.

00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic: Mohamed Salah

00:38 Guest Introduction: Ed Aarons

00:54 Journey to Egypt: Tracing Salah's Roots

01:54 Experiences in Salah's Hometown

03:22 Salah's Early Life and Football Beginnings

12:39 Challenges and Dedication in Salah's Youth

18:40 Salah's Transition to Professional Football

21:29 Cultural and Personal Insights on Salah

22:11 Salah's Early Professional Struggles

23:53 The Turning Point: Mastering the Art of Finishing

25:09 Early Career Struggles and Breakthroughs

26:33 International Recognition and Olympic Success

30:10 The Tragic Event That Changed Everything

31:31 The Move to Basel: Trials and Triumphs

39:00 Challenges at Chelsea and the Path to Greatness

44:26 Liverpool's Perfect Fit: Salah's Rise to Stardom

46:25 National Team Challenges and Rivalries

49:57 Legacy and Comparisons: The Greatest African Player?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of It Was What It Was, hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson explore a crucial moment in Premier League history: José Mourinho's dramatic 2015/16 season at Chelsea. They discuss Mourinho's second sacking at Chelsea and the key incidents that led to his sacking just 6 months after winning the title, including the infamous Eva Carneiro incident and clashes with players like Eden Hazard, and a turbulent pre-season tour.

The episode examines how these factors contributed to a season of rapid decline, leading to Mourinho's sacking and raising questions about his methods in modern football.

00:00 Introduction

00:33 Reflecting on Jose Mourinho's 2015 Season

01:42 The Beginning of the End: Preseason Signs

06:01 The Eva Carneiro Incident

14:29 Preseason Tour Troubles

20:50 Early Season Struggles

26:07 The Impact of the Eva Carneiro Affair

27:54 Conclusion and Transition to Second Half

29:04 Chelsea's Struggles Begin

29:31 Tactical Changes and Player Issues

30:33 Transfer Market Woes

33:33 Leadership Void and Dressing Room Dynamics

37:43 Marino's Public Outbursts

45:57 The Final Straw: Leicester Defeat

48:21 Marino's Departure and Legacy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper are joined by guest  Jan Åge Fjørtoft to explore the groundbreaking transfer of Brazilian footabller Juninho to Middlesborough in 1995. The discussion explores the players’ previous career highlights, the unique challenges they faced adjusting to English football, and the cultural impact of Juninho's arrival on the Premier League. Special focus is given to the transformational role this transfer played in attracting world-class talent to mid-level English clubs.

Jan gives insightful stories and personal anecdotes surrounding how Juninho became a beloved figure at Middlesborough and his lasting legacy in English football history.

00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic

01:12 Early Career and Move to Rapid Vienna

02:32 Transition to English Football

04:49 Joining Middlesborough and Early Impressions

13:26 The Impact of Janio's Signing

16:51 Cultural Adjustments and Training Challenges

19:07 Middlesborough's Transformation and Community Connection

30:28 Cultural Insights from Middlesborough

31:02 Tactical Evolution in English Football

31:45 Adapting to English Football's Physicality

36:23 Weather and Training Challenges

40:25 The Impact of Foreign Signings

50:10 Middlesborough's Tumultuous Season

59:09 Legacy of Jan Nino and the Premier League

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast.

In Part Two of our series on Don Revie's Leeds United, co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson explore the origins of the 'Dirty Leeds' tag. This episode delves into the notorious 1964 match against Everton that cemented the club's aggressive reputation. It discusses the reactions from fans and media, the role of football associations, and Revie's responses.

Our conclusion also examines the cultural and tactical shifts in football during the 1960s and how Leeds' image became a point of controversy and unity for the team and its supporters.

Tune in to uncover the complexities behind one of football's most infamous labels.

Please remember to share, rate, review and comment to help It Was What It Was grow.

00:00 Introduction

01:36 The Dirty Leeds Tag

03:46 Don Revy's Management Style

27:43 Promotion and the Great Moral Panic

29:21 The Notorious Game against Everton at Goodison

30:37 Media and Public Perception

31:47 Football's Changing Landscape

33:04 The Birth of 'Dirty Leeds'

41:30 Revie's Reaction and Amplification

56:04 Conclusion and Legacy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast.

In this episode, co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson discuss the significant impact of Don Revie on Leeds United and English football. The episode covers Revie's early career, his transition into management, and his influence on Leeds United.

The narrative delves into the challenges Leeds faced before Revie's arrival, his innovative approaches, and the beginning of Leeds' transformation. This is the first part of a series exploring the legendary 'Dirty Leeds' era, their historical context, and whether they really were 'dirty' or just misunderstood.

Join us for Part Two on Friday.

00:00 Introduction

01:03 The Controversial Reputation of Leeds United

03:21 Historical Context of Leeds United

04:26 The West Stand Fire and Financial Crisis

06:42 Managerial Struggles and Relegation

17:33 Don Revie's Appointment and Early Life

26:08 Revie's Early Career and Influence of Smith

28:34 Revie's Superstitions and Misfortunes

35:37 Transition to Manchester City and the Revie Plan

41:17 Billy Bremner's influence

47:59 Revie's Managerial Beginnings at Leeds

49:41 Conclusion and Teaser for the Part Two

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.