Walk On: The Athletic FC's Liverpool show

Points dropped, more Salah questions & how to get more from Isak

·42 min·4 clips

Liverpool's draw with Sunderland adds to a pile of problems, leaving the hosts searching for answers that aren't on this planet.

The episode opens with host Tony Evans expressing frustration over Liverpool's ongoing struggles, setting a critical tone. The panel immediately dissects the 1-1 draw with Sunderland at Anfield, noting the team's slow, predictable passing and lack of urgency. James Pearce points out that Liverpool have already dropped more points at home this season than in the entire previous title-winning campaign, underscoring the loss of Anfield's fear factor. Andy Jones criticizes the team's one-paced nature and poor pressing. The discussion shifts to Mo Salah, who was benched for the second consecutive Premier League game, a first in his Liverpool career. The hosts reference an Athletic article detailing Salah's halved non-penalty goals and expected goals this season, questioning his defensive contribution. A listener email asks if Liverpool should sell Salah in January for £65 million, prompting James Pearce to argue against a sale, citing respect for his legacy and the broader team dysfunction. The conversation turns to summer recruitment, with the panel agreeing the squad lacks balance despite a £450 million spend. They focus on striker Darwin Núñez, noting he had only 14 touches against Sunderland and seems disconnected from the team's play. The hosts identify central defense and a pacey winger as priority areas for the January transfer window. Looking ahead to the Leeds away game, they express concern about Liverpool's ability to handle a hostile Elland Road atmosphere. Tony Evans concludes with a monologue on the Hillsborough report, which found 12 police officers would have faced gross misconduct but none will be charged due to retirement. He advocates for a 'Hillsborough Law' to impose a duty of candour on public officials, linking it to broader scandals like Grenfell and the tainted blood inquiry.

As heard by us

A Sunderland draw leads into a grounded Liverpool debate on low blocks, attacking shape, and Salah's place.

Liverpool's frustrating draw with Sunderland frames a focused discussion of an attack running into familiar resistance. The panel is strongest on the details: Valerian Vert's goal being taken away, the lack of burst around the box, one-twos that never quite open the door, and…

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You want the Sunderland draw unpacked, the Salah January question tested, and Isak's supply line put under the lamp.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Walk On: The Athletic FC's Liverpool show