Gordon admits 'surprise' at substitution as Five Live team gear up for England's Spain clash
Commentators back in the studio for weekly catch-up
John Murray, Ian Dennis and Ali Bruce-Ball reconvened for the latest edition of The Commentators' View on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily, and there was no shortage of tales from the road. Ali got richly rewarded on his trip to Bournemouth, Ian was recognised as a famous footballer, and John went walkabout in Nottingham in an episode packed with awkward interviews and commentary folklore.
'Surprised' Gordon opens up ahead of Spain blockbuster
The episode also featured an interview with Anthony Gordon ahead of England's UEFA Nations League meeting with Spain. The winger admitted he was 'surprised' to be subbed, a candid admission that set the scene for what promises to be a blockbuster international week.
Glossary of greats and Clash of the Commentators
The trio also dug into their Great Glossary of Football Commentary, celebrating everything from the Cruyff Turn and the Panenka to 'parking the bus', the Olimpico, the Rabona and the ever-reliable 'fox in the box'. Meanwhile, the ever-competitive Clash of the Commentators continues, with the question on everyone's lips: who will surge ahead?
Elsewhere in the show, the team touched on Herr Chapman getting tipped off, whether Ali gets his cake and eats it, John Southall going full Basil Fawlty, awkward interviews, and the Unintended Pub Name of the Week.
5 Live commentary schedule
Radio 5 Live listeners have a feast of football to look forward to, with England v Spain the centrepiece of the weekend. The full schedule:
- Thu 19:45 - Portugal v Wales
- Sat 19:45 - England v Spain
- Sun 16:30 - Chelsea v Arsenal (Women's Super League)
- Tue 19:45 - Czech Republic v England
- Thu 19:45 - Wales v Norway
Listeners can send in their messages and voicenotes on WhatsApp to 08000 289 369, or email TCV@bbc.co.uk.