Up Front

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Welcome to Up Front brought to you by William Hill. On this channel you will find hard-hitting, sporting content that cuts through the nonsense and gets to the heart of the story. Whether that’s in ‘Up Front with Simon Jordan’ our podcast series that sees the broadcaster and former Premier League club owner sit down with interesting characters from the world of sport and beyond. Or ‘Three Up Front’, our new show hosted by Simon Jordan, Graeme Souness and Troy Deeney that tackles the biggest talking points in world football through the eyes of a player, a manager and an owner. Be sure to subscribe for weekly content and remember, 18+ please gamble responsibly. read less

Our Editor's Take

The Up Front with Simon Jordan podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with sporting legends. Simon is a serial entrepreneur with a passion for football (called soccer in the US). He made history as the youngest owner of an English Football League club when he bought Crystal Palace FC at the age of 32. His father had always supported Crystal Palace, so Simon became a fan at a young age. Four years later, he made history again as the youngest owner of a Premier League football club.

Through his experience with Crystal Palace, Simon became a recognizable personality in football. Over the years, he has shared his honest opinions on radio and TV and written a newspaper column for the Daily Mail. This podcast is his way of directing the conversation and asking essential questions. Simon encourages Up Front with Simon Jordan listeners to expect the unexpected. He promises rare insights into different sports and total honesty throughout.

One episode discusses the idea that "Society would not accept a black Simon Jordan." Simon interviews former player, manager, and now respected pundit John Barnes. Together they discuss the lack of representation within England's football leagues. Why aren't there more black managers? John talks about how former manager Graham Taylor spoke out about racism and how this affected him. The high-energy interview starts with John sharing his story and how he got into the sport. It's only a short time before they enjoy a passionate debate about racial inequality in football.

Former goalie David James joins another episode. He discusses his career and how goalkeeping has changed over the years. David also talks about the criticism he received and how the media changed the narrative. Other podcast guests include boxing champion Carl Froch and darts icon James Wade.

Up Front with Simon Jordan features conversations and debates with insightful sports personalities. Simon is fearless in having honest discussions and debating challenging topics. It's a fun podcast for sports fans who want to hear more from the players behind the games. New episodes premiere weekly.

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Nigel Benn | "I have never said one derogatory thing about your son!"💥

Nigel Benn | "I have never said one derogatory thing about your son!"💥

This episode contains issues that some people might find distressing. If you need support or advice on any of the matters raised within the programme, please visit: https://www.samaritans.org/Our guest on the latest episode of Up Front is the Dark Destroyer - Nigel Benn. A fan favourite throughout his career, Nigel was a two-weight world champion who was involved in some of the most memorable fights in British boxing history.After taking up the sport while serving in the army, Nigel soon established a reputation as a fearsome puncher. He won the WBO middleweight title in 1990 and the WBC super-middleweight belt in 1992 and is best remembered for his contests against Chris Eubank and Gerald McClellan, the latter of which was sadly to have tragic consequences.Following his retirement, Nigel struggled with addictions that took him to the brink of taking his own life. He talks candidly about that period and how he turned things around, the fights against Eubank and McClellan and the current boxing scene. He also discusses his son Conor: his potential fight with Chris Eubank Jr and the recent lifting of his provisional doping ban by the National Anti-Doping Panel. Nigel and Simon have strongly disagreed on that subject and, for the first time, they sit down to hear what the other has to say. This is one not to be missed.Subscribe for future episodes and head to http://www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan for full video episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.

Episodes

Nigel Benn | "I have never said one derogatory thing about your son!"💥

Nigel Benn | "I have never said one derogatory thing about your son!"💥

This episode contains issues that some people might find distressing. If you need support or advice on any of the matters raised within the programme, please visit: https://www.samaritans.org/Our guest on the latest episode of Up Front is the Dark Destroyer - Nigel Benn. A fan favourite throughout his career, Nigel was a two-weight world champion who was involved in some of the most memorable fights in British boxing history.After taking up the sport while serving in the army, Nigel soon established a reputation as a fearsome puncher. He won the WBO middleweight title in 1990 and the WBC super-middleweight belt in 1992 and is best remembered for his contests against Chris Eubank and Gerald McClellan, the latter of which was sadly to have tragic consequences.Following his retirement, Nigel struggled with addictions that took him to the brink of taking his own life. He talks candidly about that period and how he turned things around, the fights against Eubank and McClellan and the current boxing scene. He also discusses his son Conor: his potential fight with Chris Eubank Jr and the recent lifting of his provisional doping ban by the National Anti-Doping Panel. Nigel and Simon have strongly disagreed on that subject and, for the first time, they sit down to hear what the other has to say. This is one not to be missed.Subscribe for future episodes and head to http://www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan for full video episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.

Fact from Fiction - Footballing Tropes Under The Microscope | Three Up Front

Fact from Fiction - Footballing Tropes Under The Microscope | Three Up Front

In this episode of Three Up Front, with special guest Henry Winter, the panel are set the task of challenging football’s conventional wisdom.For example, are football agents really the scourge of the modern game, or actually useful allies? Is Russell Martin’s ‘philosophy’ at Southampton destined only for the Championship? Contrary to popular belief, does the Chelsea board actually know what it is doing? And despite the top ten teams in the Premier League being managed by foreign coaches, are British coaches STILL just as good as they are?Simon, Troy, Graeme and Henry examine all that and more as they put common footballing theories under the microscope.18+ please gamble responsibly

Ten Hag Out & Amorim In? | Three Up Front

Ten Hag Out & Amorim In? | Three Up Front

It’s been a busy week at Old Trafford. Erik Ten Hag has finally gone, and Sporting’s Ruben Amorim looks set to replace him as Manchester United manager.In this episode, we find out why the 39-year-old might just be the person to get things right at Old Trafford after a number of false dawns. But how exactly will he get things moving at a club that has stalled for so long?Troy returns alongside Henry Winter to discuss these key issues and more, including why new owners INEOS cut ties with their manager just 115 days after awarding him a new contract. Of course, they delve deep into the other key factors behind Ten Hag’s downfall, including the failure to instil a clear playing style, his terrible and expensive recruitment, and even his weak media persona. Henry argues that while Ten Hag undoubtedly had his weaknesses, he was also let down by the Glazers.And with Amorim’s arrival imminent, we explore what he’ll bring to United and what it will take for him to deliver consistent success, from changing infrastructure to developing an identity. So, is Amorim the right man to lead United forward? Does his experience in Portugal set him up for success in the Premier League? Find out here, in the latest episode of Three Up Front.18+ please gamble responsibly

Liverpool to make Arsenal statement, Tuchel media coverage and Howe under pressure? | Three Up Front

Liverpool to make Arsenal statement, Tuchel media coverage and Howe under pressure? | Three Up Front

Football writer Henry Winter joins Simon Jordan and Graeme Souness to discuss Liverpool, Arsenal, Newcastle and the media’s reaction to Thomas’s Tuchel’s appointment as England head coach.They debate whether Liverpool are the real deal this season: Henry reveals what the players are saying about Arne Slot but Graeme has reservations about their title credentials. They also discuss the upcoming game against Arsenal and why it could be a defining fixture for Mikel Arteta’s side this season and whether their indiscipline is going to ruin their own Premier League bid.Following Thomas Tuchel’s appointment, they discuss the press reaction to his arrival, what success will look like for him and whether we will now learn if the players are good enough to win the World Cup.There’s also a chat on Newcastle’s recent form and whether they’re heading for a tough season. Henry says why he thinks there have been some difficulties behind the scenes, Graeme explains what makes the club such a challenge to manage and Simon wonders whether the honeymoon following Mike Ashley’s departure is over.After Inter Miami’s addition into the FIFA Club World Cup, how seriously should we take this competition and could we really see players boycott it?Subscribe for future episodes.18+ please gamble responsibly.

How to resurrect Man Utd, why so Spursy, ‘lucky’ Wenger and Pogba returns | Three Up Front

How to resurrect Man Utd, why so Spursy, ‘lucky’ Wenger and Pogba returns | Three Up Front

Should Manchester United copy Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City to get back to the top? Why are Tottenham so flimsy? Would you take Paul Pogba at your club now and was Arsene Wenger a lucky manager?Those are the topics on this week’s Three Up Front with Simon Jordan, Graeme Souness and Troy Deeney.With Man Utd’s executives meeting this week and possibly deciding on Erik Ten Hag’s future, Simon gives his insight on what might be going through their minds while Graeme wonders if there’s enough football knowledge at the club.Tottenham’s latest capitulation leads them to ask why that has been the case for so long and Troy reveals whether players think they are a soft touch. Also, would James Maddison get into any of the top three and does Ange Postecoglu need to liven up a bit in his post match interviews?Graeme gets an opportunity to discuss one of his favourite subjects - Paul Pogba - as they debate whether they would sign him after his doping ban was reduced. Also in Graeme’s line of fire is, of all people, Arsene Wenger: was he a great manager or just very lucky?And with top players complaining about the increasing number of matches they’re being asked to play, Troy explains why he would vote not to strike.Subscribe for future episodes18+ please gamble responsibly

Simon Jordan GRILLS Troy Deeney over THAT viral video + more football myths! | Three Up Front

Simon Jordan GRILLS Troy Deeney over THAT viral video + more football myths! | Three Up Front

This week Troy Deeney is BACK...And Simon doesn’t waste time grilling him about his viral video about the speed bumps at Watford’s training ground!In this week’s episode Simon Jordan, Graeme Souness and Troy Deeney break down some of your footballing myths and reveal if they’re actually true or just football hearsay, such as does the new manager bounce really exist and has Pep Guardiola ruined football? Elsewhere, Graeme reveals whether he agrees that Newcastle fans are the best in the UK. All that and more on the latest episode of Three Up Front.Subscribe for future episodes18+ please gamble responsibly

Did Arsenal admit Man City are the better side and can Ten Hag handle big players? | Three Up Front

Did Arsenal admit Man City are the better side and can Ten Hag handle big players? | Three Up Front

It's only two up front on the show this week as Simon Jordan and Graeme Souness tackle some of the big questions around the Premier League:Did Arsenal show an inferiority complex against Manchester City? Was Erik Ten Hag wrong to bring up Marcus Rashford's lifestyle and is Julen Lopetegui's position under threat at West Ham?Graeme and Simon debate Arsenal's approach after they went down to 10 men at Manchester City. Did Arteta's approach show their fear of City or was it the best way to go? Graeme argues they were too negative and explains why he thinks City won't care that they haven't beaten Arsenal in their last 3 league meetings. They also discuss Trossard's red card and whether players should take some of the blame for bending the rules.Please note that his episode was recorded before the news about Rodri's injury became public.With just one win in his first 5 games, how much pressure is on West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui? Simon gives his verdict on how long he might have and explains the thought process of a chairman when the team is getting bad results.Finally, Simon and Graeme look ahead to Manchester United v Tottenham this weekend and discuss whether managers should bring up a player's lifestyle in the press after Erik Ten Hag's recent comments about Marcus Rashford. This leads to a debate over whether Ten Hag can handle big stars, but is it also maybe the last chance saloon for Rashford at United?Subscribe for future episodes. 18 + please gamble responsibly.

David Haye | If you give it the big’un and you flop, you’re gonna get stick 💥

David Haye | If you give it the big’un and you flop, you’re gonna get stick 💥

In this episode, we are joined by two-weight world champion David Haye. He’s one of only three men - with Evander Holyfield and Oleksandr Usyk - to have won world titles at both cruiserweight and heavyweight.After becoming the first Brit to reach a world amateur final, David turned pro and quickly became known for punching power, as illustrated when he stopped both Jean-Marc Mormeck and Enzo Maccarinelli to become the unified cruiserweight world champion. He then moved up to heavyweight where, despite conceding 7 stone in weight, he beat the giant 7ft-plus Russian Nikolay Valuev to become the WBA champion. Eventually, he faced Wladimir Klitschko in a unification bout but he was soundly beaten and his post-fight excuse of a broken little toe severely damaged his standing among fight fans. Thereafter, came controversy and frustration: a much-publicised brawl with Derek Chisora in Germany led to a contest between the pair where David was victorious. But, a highly anticipated fight with Tyson Fury fell through as David suffered injuries that would keep him out of the ring for a long time. He eventually returned and fought Tony Bellew twice before retiring following his defeat in their rematch.Despite his success, David has been a sometimes divisive figure with the boxing public. Here, he tackles everything: becoming a two-weight world champion, his defeats to Klitschko and Bellew, why he made some of his controversial statements, and he gives his thoughts on Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk. He also explains why Saudi Arabia’s takeover is good for boxing and tantalisingly, he reveals whether his career may not yet be over.Subscribe for future episodes and head to http://www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan for full video episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.

NLD is a MUST-WIN for both teams and have English clubs underachieved in the UCL? | Three Up Front

NLD is a MUST-WIN for both teams and have English clubs underachieved in the UCL? | Three Up Front

The Champions League is back and looking very different this season. But will it be more entertaining?Simon, Graeme and Troy discuss the new format and question whether English teams have been really punching their weight until now.Graeme explains why Arsenal must win the North London derby. Simon asks whether fans are too loyal to homegrown talent that simply isn't good enough for the first team and Troy suggests that Arsenal's left wing slot is up for grabs, and that Raheem Sterling is the man to take it.All this and more on this week’s Three Up Front!Subscribe for future episodes.18+ please gamble responsibly

Ten Hag’s January deadline, Spain next for TAA? & Rangers need cash

Ten Hag’s January deadline, Spain next for TAA? & Rangers need cash

What are Man Utd now? Is Trent Alexander-Arnold off to Real Madrid? And how can Rangers catch up with Celtic?Simon Jordan, Graeme Souness and Troy Deeney clash on these and more questions in the latest Three Up Front.Manchester United's capitulation to Liverpool sees them discuss why they still have no system of play after two years under Erik Ten Hag and how long he may have left at the club. They also debate whether Marcus Rashford still deserves his place in the United XI, how Virgil van Dijk displayed true leadership and if Arne Slot is slowly phasing out Trent Alexander-Arnold at Anfield...Elsewhere, Troy gives his viewpoint on his old gaffer Sean Dyche's situation at Everton, how he thinks he's dealing with it and why he believes the players need a meeting behind closed doors as they once again prop up the rest of the Premier League. Graeme gives his verdict on his former club's Rangers' defeat to Celtic and they deliberate on whether Lee Carsley can bring something new to the England team and if the job may be his to lose already.Subscribe for future episodes.18+ please gamble responsibly

"Football looks like a burden for Rashford" - YOUR questions answered 🗣️ | Three Up Front

"Football looks like a burden for Rashford" - YOUR questions answered 🗣️ | Three Up Front

Simon Jordan, Graeme Souness and Troy Deeney are answering your questions on the latest Three Up Front.Does Marcus Rashford look like football is a burden for him? Is Rodri really the new Graeme Souness? Who is the best player outside the big six in the Premier League?They discuss which Premier League players are the most overhyped, what football might look like in 2044 and Graeme says how he really got on with Gary Neville, Roy Keane and Jamie Carragher at Sky.Simon reveals which club he came close to buying after Crystal Palace and why he may have changed his opinion on Liverpool's Mo Salah, Graeme names the England star he thinks is one of the worst culprits for diving and Troy explains which Manchester United and Arsenal players need to prove their worth in 2024/25.Subscribe for future episodes.18+ please gamble responsibly

Sterling’s NONSENSE statement, Toney vs Solanke & a new era in Liverpool | Three Up Front

Sterling’s NONSENSE statement, Toney vs Solanke & a new era in Liverpool | Three Up Front

Was Raheem Sterling out of order? Have Tottenham signed the wrong striker? And how impressive were Arne Slot's Liverpool? Simon, Graeme and Troy give their opinions on the big talking points from the opening weekend of the Premier League.They discuss the soap opera around Chelsea and whose at fault, what it means for Sterling's career and the new manager Enzo Maresca, as well as debating Chelsea's extremely unconventional business model...From one soap opera to another: Ivan Toney’s future. He was left out of Brentford’s win over Palace amid speculation of a move to Saudi Arabia. The trio debate his next move and whether Tottenham should’ve signed him over Dominic Solanke.As Liverpool enter a new era under Arne Slot, Graeme shares his perspective on his former club, while Simon raises some concerns about Slot and Liverpool’s recent transfer activity.All this and more in the first episode of the new Premier League season.Subscribe for future episodes.18+ please gamble responsibly.

Jaap Stam | “We were always fighting at Man Utd - You don’t need to be friends to win”

Jaap Stam | “We were always fighting at Man Utd - You don’t need to be friends to win”

On today’s episode we are joined by one of the most dominant defenders in Premier League history.Jaap Stam spent three seasons at Manchester United, lifting the Premier League title every year. In 1999 he would add the FA Cup and the Champions League to his trophy cabinet as he helped United to historic treble.His infamous autobiography led to an explosive Ferguson fall out, which saw Jaap leave for Italy. First at Lazio and then onto AC Milan where he would be involved in another iconic Champions League moment, the miracle in Istanbul.Now a manager with experience in England, the Netherlands and the USA, Jaap joins the show to give us the inside scoop on his rocky relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson, the controversy around his failed drugs test as well as his thoughts on the Dutchmen currently plying their trade in the Premier League.Subscribe for future episodes.18+ please gamble responsibly.

David Moyes | "I’ve been the manager - I couldn’t tell you what the West Ham Way is”

David Moyes | "I’ve been the manager - I couldn’t tell you what the West Ham Way is”

On today’s episode, we are joined by a respected and constant figure in English football management. David Moyes sits third in the number of games managed in the Premier League, behind only fellow Scotsman Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger. Having begun his managerial career at the age of 34 at Preston North End, Moyes has risen through the football pyramid and become synonymous with stability and success, notably at Everton and West Ham.Moyes sits down with Simon to discuss his longevity in the game and the successes he achieved with Preston, Everton, and more recently, West Ham. He also talks candidly about his challenges, particularly his difficult period at Manchester United. Moyes shares his insights on following in the gargantuan footsteps of Sir Alex Ferguson and the key factors that led to his downfall.Additionally, Moyes discusses how he had to reinvented himself after leaving Old Trafford, reflecting on his time at Sunderland and Real Sociedad whilst addressing the opinions about his “negative” style of play. Join Simon for this insightful conversation with David Moyes.Subscribe for future episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.

“Bellingham will be England captain at the next World Cup” | Three Up Front

“Bellingham will be England captain at the next World Cup” | Three Up Front

Graeme Souness and Troy Deeney were captains throughout the majority of their careers and Simon once sat in the ultimate leadership position, as owner of Crystal Palace FC. Societal changes, money and player power have created a very different footballing landscape, one that many people feel produces fewer leaders than ever.In this week’s episode our panel sat down to discuss leadership in modern football, analysing the traits that the best captains and managers exhibit whilst looking at England’s footballing future as we head into the post-Southgate era.Subscribe for future episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.

England fall at the last hurdle… Again | Three Up Front

England fall at the last hurdle… Again | Three Up Front

DISCLAIMER: This episode was recorded just prior to Gareth Southgate stepping down as England manager.On this week’s episode Troy, Simon and Graeme reflect on EURO 2024 and give their thoughts on an England team that fell at the last hurdle once again, losing to Spain in Berlin.The guys review their pre-tournament predictions and each give their thoughts on the reasons behind England’s inability to get their hands on major silverware.Whether it’s Southgate’s negative attitude, Rice’s inability to pass forward or Kane’s lack of fitness, no stone is left unturned as they try to determine where England go from here…Subscribe for future episodes.18+ please gamble responsibly.

Jermain Defoe | "If you play that badly for England you HAVE to accept the criticism!"

Jermain Defoe | "If you play that badly for England you HAVE to accept the criticism!"

On today’s episode, we are joined by one of the most clinical finishers to ever grace the Premier League.Tottenham favourite Jermain Defoe is one of the top 10 goal scorers in Premier League history and has represented England 57 times, featuring and scoring in major tournaments, before crowning his illustrious career by helping Rangers to bring the Scottish title back to Ibrox for the first time in a decade.Jermain sits down with Simon to talk about his England career and give his honest opinion on the current England squad, focusing on their performances at the Euros and the criticism they’ve faced. He also opens up about his special relationship with young Sunderland fan Bradley Lowery before discussing his future in the game.Despite his illustrious career and his experience as a coach in the Tottenham academy, Jermain has struggled to enter the world of management, experiencing resistance and rejection along the way. He joins the show to discuss his future prospects and the difficult journey black former players experience when swapping the pitch for the dugout.Join Simon for this insightful conversation with Jermain Defoe.Subscribe for future episodes.18+ please gamble responsibly.

Theo Walcott | "Arteta locked us in the dressing room, it was like he was the manager”

Theo Walcott | "Arteta locked us in the dressing room, it was like he was the manager”

On today’s episode, we are joined by a former Arsenal favourite who is 1 of only 8 players to score over 100 goals for the club. Theo Walcott shot to fame at 16 when he signed for Arsenal in 2006, and his profile soared further when he was called up for England for the 2006 World Cup six months later. Upon his signing, he was widely tipped for greatness with comparisons to Thierry Henry. To go along with the goals, Theo won multiple FA Cups during his time in North London, whether that number is 2 or 3 is a point of debate in this very conversation.Theo joins Simon in Frankfurt, Germany to discuss his career, from his rapid rise in professional football to his time at Arsenal and England. He shares what it was like to play under Arsene Wenger in a transitional period in the club's history. Theo also provides insights on Mikel Arteta, highlighting the traits he saw in him as a player that have contributed to his success as a manager, while also touching on the current England squad and their chances at EURO 2024.Subscribe for future episodes.18+ please gamble responsibly.

"England’s midfield is in a Scholes, Gerrard, Lampard time warp” | Three Up Front in Frankfurt 🇩🇪

"England’s midfield is in a Scholes, Gerrard, Lampard time warp” | Three Up Front in Frankfurt 🇩🇪

On the final leg of Three Up Front’s trip around Germany, Simon, Graeme and Troy discuss the malaise around England’s performances, suggest playing Jude Bellingham deeper is the way for Gareth Southgate to improve his side and analyse the post season review that Manchester United undertook before confirming Erik Ten Hag would stay on as manager.There’s a story involving Troy, Graeme and a German donut man and Simon ponders the question as to how Sir Jim Ratcliffe can get his club to ‘be like Real Madrid’ after his latest comments about Manchester United.Subscribe for future episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.

"Alexander-Arnold is not the answer to England’s midfield problems" | Three Up Front in Germany 🇩🇪

"Alexander-Arnold is not the answer to England’s midfield problems" | Three Up Front in Germany 🇩🇪

Football fever is sweeping across Germany as Euro 2024 gets into full swing. England kicked off their campaign with a 1-0 win over Serbia, thanks to a Jude Bellingham header. It’s a familiar story: a bright start, lost control, and a nervy finish. Nonetheless, Southgate has led the boys to a win. However, with key figures like Foden struggling to impose themselves on the game, has it left us with more questions than answers?The Tartan Army descended on Germany in their thousands, full of expectation ahead of their group opener against the host nation. But Scotland’s 5-1 thrashing in Munich has threatened to dampen their excitement and an early exit. What went so wrong for Steve Clarke’s men?Simon, Graeme, and Troy discuss all this and more from Germany in the latest episode of Three Up Front.Subscribe for future episodes.18+ please gamble responsibly