The Lab (Tottenham Hotspur Podcast) - podcast cover

The Lab (Tottenham Hotspur Podcast)

The Fighting Cockthefightingcock.co.uk
Brought to you by the lads at The Fighting Cock, The Lab is a Football podcast that encourages in depth conversation on subject matter that ranges from tactics, to transfer deals, how injuries are treated, to an agent's role, to content creators, to coaches, and much more. Essentially The Lab is a podcast that talks about everything around the pitch, not just just what happens on it.
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Episodes

S3E03 | Transfer Politics: Spurs, Forest & the Power Struggle

On today’s show, we’re digging into the story that’s dominated Spurs Twitter this week. Tottenham believed they had met the £60 million release clause for Morgan Gibbs-White, only for Nottingham Forest and their owner, Evangelos Marianakis, to block the move. Was the clause actually triggered? Did Forest act in bad faith? And where does this leave Spurs, a club trying to make serious moves in the market, when even clear contractual agreements seem to be up for interpretation? To help make sense ...

Jul 30, 202538 min

S3E02 | The South Stand Revolution: THFC Flags and the Future of Atmosphere

In this episode of The Lab , Sam Wilson from THFC Flags shares how a grassroots fan movement helped transform the atmosphere at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. From AJ Tracey-funded TIFOs to unforgettable European nights like Frankfurt and Bodo/Glimt, we explore the logistics, club collaboration, and impact on players. Sam also talks about working with Return of the Shelf and Spurs Song Sheet , the challenges of sustainability, and the ambition to unify the South Stand. If you've ever wondered how fa...

Jul 29, 202557 min

S3E01 | Wages, Debt, and Daniel Levy

In this episode of The Lab , we’re joined by Anatole Pang, a Tottenham Hotspur supporter with a professional background in investment banking, private equity, and financial analysis. Anatole brings an investor’s perspective to the world of football finance, cutting through the noise to examine how clubs, especially Spurs, really operate behind the scenes. Together, we unpack five commonly held beliefs about Tottenham’s financial position: that the club is rich, spends big, has a restrictive wage...

Jul 24, 20251 hr 4 min

S2E51 | Bridging the Gap: Spurs, the Trust & a New Era

On this episode of The Lab, Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust members Michael Green (Chair) and Steve Cavalier (Board Member and Fan Advisory Board representative) join to discuss the growing relationship between the club and its fans. They share insights from their recent meeting with new CEO Vinai Venkatesham, explain how the Fan Advisory Board operates, and discuss key issues including ticket pricing, atmosphere initiatives like Return of the Shelf, and supporter influence. They also explor...

Jul 17, 20251 hr 2 min

S2E50 | Thomas Frank’s Tottenham: Shape-Shifting & Set Pieces

In this episode of The Lab , Ben Bowman returns to dig into how Thomas Frank could shape Tottenham Hotspur tactically. From the possibility of a back three to a more fluid 4-2-3-1, we unpack what Spurs’ summer transfer links reveal about Frank’s likely setup. We explore why players like Van de Ven, Romero, Destiny Udogie, Brennan Johnson, and Solanke could all flourish under Frank’s pragmatism. We also discuss Brentford’s elite set-piece approach, the marginal gains Frank obsessively pursues, an...

Jul 11, 202553 min

S2E49 | Mohammed Kudus: Tottenham's Next Game-Changer?

In this episode of The Lab , Ben Bowman joins us to break down Tottenham’s pursuit of Mohammed Kudus. We explore what makes Kudus such a unique talent: his one-on-one ability, explosiveness, versatility, and how he compares to Kulusevski. We discuss how Kudus could slot into Thomas Frank’s system, and why he might be the perfect fit for a transitional, fluid attack. We also react to West Ham fans’ frustration, examine the potential £60–85m price tag, and touch on Spurs’ broader recruitment strat...

Jul 08, 202544 min

S2E48 | Behind the Curtain at Spurs: Ownership, Power & PSR

Football finance analyst and Spurs supporter Ben White joins The Lab to unpack the structure behind the scenes at Tottenham Hotspur. With clarity and depth, he explains how a small group of decision-makers run a global football club, breaking down the Lewis family's role, Daniel Levy’s evolving influence, the arrival of CEO Vino Venkatesham, and the financial mechanisms like PSR and structured payments. From misperceptions around cash flow to how Spurs compare with Chelsea and Brighton, this is ...

Jul 03, 20251 hr 10 min

S2E47 | Inside Spurs with Alasdair Gold

In this episode of The Lab, we're joined by Alasdair Gold , Spurs correspondent for Football.London and one of the most trusted voices in the Tottenham community. We take a deep dive into the current state of the club, the transition from Ange Postecoglou to Thomas Frank, and what the future might hold under a new approach. Alasdair shares insights on transfer strategy, Daniel Levy’s influence, behind-the-scenes dynamics, and the challenges of covering Spurs as both a journalist and a fan. It’s ...

Jul 01, 202550 min

S2E46 | Inside the Failed Qatari Bid for Tottenham

This episode of The Lab explores the behind-the-scenes story of a potential Qatari takeover of Tottenham Hotspur. Habibullah Khan, who has links to people close to the process, shares what he’s heard about how discussions progressed. The Qataris were reportedly keen on acquiring full ownership of the club and investing in the local area as part of a long-term UK strategy. Talks with Joe Lewis’s side seemed to move forward, but negotiations appeared to stall when Daniel Levy became more involved....

Jun 30, 202552 min

S2E45 | Why We Could Win The League Under Daniel Levy

Tottenham finally lifted a trophy under Ange Postecoglou, only to sack him 16 days later. In this episode of The Lab, we’re joined by Raj to break down Daniel Levy’s bold decision, the arrival of Thomas Frank, and what it all means for Spurs going forward. Can Levy really deliver on his claim that Tottenham can win the Premier League? Or is this another false dawn? We dig into whether the club’s long-term vision has any real foundation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/...

Jun 25, 20251 hr 2 min

S2E44 | Why Spurs Chose Frank, And What Comes Next

Thomas Frank is now Tottenham’s head coach, bringing an end to a long-running story that has had a big impact on both Spurs and Brentford. In this episode, we’re joined by Mike Johnston from the Ealing Road podcast to talk about what Frank will bring to Spurs beyond just tactics. We discuss his focus on building culture, developing young players, and the importance of his backroom staff. We also look at how his flexible style compares to Ange Postecoglou’s approach, and what this all means for B...

Jun 16, 202555 min

S2E43 | When The Year Ends In One

In this episode, we're joined by football writer Ewan Flynn to talk about his new book, When the Year Ends in One: How Tottenham Hotspur's 1991 FA Cup Win Saved the Club and Transformed English Football . We look back at that dramatic season — from Gazza’s unforgettable moments to the chaos in the Spurs boardroom, Robert Maxwell’s attempted takeover, and how winning the FA Cup kept the club afloat. Ewan also explains why the 1991 FA Cup run wasn’t just big for Spurs, but a turning point in Engli...

Jun 13, 20251 hr 9 min

S2E42 | Europa, Heartbreak, and Hope: The Ange Era in Full

In this episode, we welcome for the third time on The Lab, journalist and author Vince Rugari to reflect on the end of Ange Postecoglou’s time at Tottenham. We talk about the highs, the heartbreak, and the chaos of Ange’s two seasons in charge, including the unforgettable Europa League win and the collapse in the league. It’s a heartfelt goodbye to a unique manager who inspired loyalty, debate, and plenty of drama. If you loved Ange, this one’s for you. If not, maybe skip it. Learn more about yo...

Jun 10, 202556 min

S2E41 | What Happens If Thomas Frank Does Join?

In this episode of The Lab, we're joined by lifelong Brentford fan and photographer Adam Rosenbaum to talk about Thomas Frank: his rise, his coaching style, and why he’s such a special manager. We discuss Brentford’s journey from the Championship to the Premier League, how Frank built a strong team culture, and what might happen if he ends up at Spurs. Adam shares stories from Griffin Park, thoughts on Matthew Benham’s data-driven model, and what makes Frank different from other managers, and cr...

Jun 05, 202541 min

S2E40 | The Hero Or The Clown

In this episode of The Lab , we welcome Dan Kilpatrick, former Chief Football Correspondent at the Evening Standard and now newly of The Athletic , for a candid conversation about his career move and a dramatic week in the world of Tottenham Hotspur. As Spurs celebrate a historic Europa League triumph, Dan reflects on his final articles for the Standard, and one piece that drew a sharp public rebuke from manager Ange Postecoglou. We explore the fine line journalists walk when balancing honest cr...

May 28, 202545 min

S2E39 | "Why I'm Levy In"

Raj, a lifelong Spurs fan and season ticket holder, joins The Lab podcast to defend Daniel Levy’s Spurs tenure with a data-led but emotional perspective. They cover long-term progress, missteps like Mourinho and Conte, financial constraints, and fan frustration. Raj argues Levy’s cautious strategy has kept Spurs competitive and ethical amid football’s murky ownership landscape. They also explore Ange Postecoglou’s future, poor club communications, and ticket pricing myths. A thoughtful, passiona...

May 06, 20251 hr 1 min

S2E38 | The Secret World Of Football Comms

On today’s episode of The Lab , I’m joined by Ian Taylor, a seasoned communications expert who’s held senior roles at Queens Park Rangers and West Ham United. We dive into the realities of football communications — from dealing with leaks and managing crises to working with managers, players, and fans. Ian shares his insights on how clubs handle breaking scandals, why fan-led media is changing the landscape, and what it’s really like behind the scenes when chaos hits. Whether you’re inside the g...

Apr 30, 202553 min

S2E37 | Luca Williams-Barnett & the New Breed at Spurs

Tottenham’s academy has produced talent for generations, but is it still delivering? In this episode of The Lab , we’re joined by John from Lilywhite Rose to dissect the current state of Spurs’ youth setup. We cover recent successes, the rise and stall of Mikey Moore, Jamie Donley’s first-team prospects, and the impact of big-name arrivals like Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray. Has the club lost faith in its own pipeline? And what about exciting prospects like Luca Williams-Barnett? With deep insi...

Apr 23, 202554 min

S2E36 | The Inevitability Of It All

In this episode of The Lab , we’re joined by Dan Kilpatrick, Chief Football Correspondent at The Standard , for an in-depth discussion on the current state of Tottenham Hotspur. We explore the pressures facing Ange Postecoglou, the growing scrutiny on Daniel Levy, and the wider structural issues impacting the club’s direction. Dan shares his perspective on covering Spurs through a turbulent season, the challenges of press room dynamics, and the implications of potential change behind the scenes....

Apr 16, 202543 min

S2E35 | Football Fandom: Why We Follow Tottenham

In this episode, I’m joined by journalist and author David Hillier , whose brilliant Men’s Health article explores the emotional chaos of football fandom – something every Tottenham fan knows all too well. We get into why we follow this club, what it costs us, and why walking away – even when it might be good for us – is never an option. From childhood loyalty to group chats and post-match meltdowns, this is a conversation about identity, obsession, community and belonging. Why Spurs? Why any te...

Apr 10, 202549 min

S2E34 | How Tottenham Win The Europa League

We sit down with Andy Brassell to figure out how Tottenham win the Europa League despite having the worst season in decades. Andy Brassell is a European football expert, broadcaster, and writer known for his insightful analysis across BBC, talkSPORT, and The Guardian. Fluent in multiple languages, he brings deep knowledge of continental football, offering sharp commentary on tactics, culture, and players, with a particular passion for Portuguese, French, and German leagues. Learn more about your...

Apr 08, 202547 min

S2E33 | The Price Of Tottenham ft Kieran Maguire

Kieran Maguire is the go-to voice when it comes to football finance — whether it’s untangling FFP, breaking down club accounts, or explaining how teams like Chelsea can keep spending without (apparently) breaking the rules. He’s a lecturer in football finance at the University of Liverpool, co-host of the Price of Football podcast, and author of the book by the same name. If you’ve ever seen a financial headline in football and thought, “What does that actually mean ?”, chances are Kieran’s alre...

Apr 01, 202544 min

S2E32 | Change For Tottenham: What Next

Apologies for the clipping on Billie's audio Change for Tottenham's first protest was a success, garnering attention from media outlets across the globe. What follows next is important. Billie explains... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 28, 202544 min

S2E31 | What Is Levy's Next Move?

Will Ange Postecoglou last the season? Is Pochettino being lined up? And what does Daniel Levy do to protect his position? Chief Football Correspondent for the Standard, Dan Kilpatrick, is back on The Lab. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 19, 202544 min

S2E30 | Why Qatari Investors Have Tottenham In Their Sights

Is Tottenham Hotspur on the verge of a Qatari takeover? Reports suggest that Qatari investors are eyeing a stake in the club, raising big questions about what this could mean for Spurs' future. But why Tottenham? What makes the club an attractive investment compared to other Premier League teams? And how does this potential deal fit into Qatar’s wider strategy of expanding its influence in global sports? In this episode, we’ll explore the motivations behind Middle Eastern investment in football,...

Mar 01, 202548 min

S2E29 | How Does A Qatari Takeover Change Tottenham?

What does a Qatari owned Tottenham look like? Do they buy the debt owed by the club? Does Daniel Levy remain at the at Spurs? How much money will be available for transfers? We discuss all with Ben White - a financial consultant who regularly takes a deep dive into the club's books. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 21, 202546 min

S2E28 | Will Daniel Levy Listen?

The Standard's chief football correspondent Dan Kilpatrick joins The Lab once again. In this episode we look back at the protests from the weekend, ponder their impact, guess Levy's next move, and look forward to a more settled Tottenham Hotspur squad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 18, 202546 min

S2E27 | Change For Tottenham

On this episode of The Lab we welcome some of the people behind Change For Tottenham - a movement aimed to promote a change in the running of the Club going forward. What does that mean in reality, and how are they going to achieve it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 14, 202550 min

S2E26 | Mason Melia - Tottenham's Bright Young Thing

Tottenham Hotspur have secured the signing of highly-rated Irish youngster Mason Melia, one of the brightest talents to emerge from the League of Ireland. At just 16, the St Patrick’s Athletic forward has already made history as the club’s youngest-ever senior goal scorer, attracting attention from top European clubs before Spurs won the race for his signature. In this episode, I’m joined by Irish sports journalist David Sneyd to discuss what makes Melia such an exciting prospect, his rapid rise...

Feb 12, 202533 min

S2E25 | Everything You Need To Know About Mathys Tel

We sit down with Finlay from @Counterpressers to discuss everything good about Mathys Tel, as well as some of the stuff he needs to work on. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 04, 202533 min
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