Robin van Persie

UTD Podcast: Our favourite episodes so far

Friday 09 October 2020 10:09

Can you believe it’s almost a year since the very first episode of UTD Podcast?

In that time, hosts Sam Homewood, Helen Evans and David May have spoken to some of the most celebrated players in the history of this famous club, from older names such as Alex Stepney and Norman Whiteside, through stalwarts of Sir Alex Ferguson’s great sides (Denis Irwin and Patrice Evra, for example) to current first-teamers, like Juan Mata and Paul Pogba. We've even covered Ole Gunnar Solskjaer himself!

We’ve been privy to previously unheard tales on numerous topics, not just about life at Old Trafford but also, well, life in general – mental health, equality and overcoming adversity are all common themes that run like a thread through our series.

If you’ve not yet listened – don’t worry. To celebrate the 50th episode of the podcast – a ‘best bits’ special which you can listen to now – our writers have selected their favourite shows so far…

UTD Podcast: Our top picks

 Collection

Not sure where to start in our podcast archive? Try these clips on for size...

ERIC CANTONA

‘The King’ is well known for his extrovert character, philosophical views and beguiling personality, so it’s no surprise his podcast appearance ranks as one the most intriguing episodes to date. Eric spoke about a range of topics, everything from being a leader for the ‘Class of ’92’ and the infamous ‘seagulls’ speech, to the meaning of life, his alternative views on nationality and there’s even an offhand reference to ‘making love’! It’s not just the stories, it’s the manner in which Eric tells them, with an aura of elegance that simply captivates an audience. A must-listen for all Reds! (Michael Plant, ManUtd.com)

LOU MACARI

There have been so many entertaining episodes of UTD Podcast, but my favourite was undoubtedly Lou Macari's. Why? Because it was just like the man himself: warm and thoughtful, with a cheeky sense of humour. Not that there wasn't sadness: Lou lost his son in 1999, and it's heartbreaking hearing him talk about dealing with that pain. But there’s also funny football stories – Pat Crerand hijacking Macari's move to Liverpool – and inspiring insight into the work Lou does with the homeless. The episode was like spending a rewarding hour with a good friend. And in this challenging period of self-isolating and social distancing, there's few greater treats than that. (Joe Ganley, ManUtd.com)

UTD Podcast: Lou's tear-jerking tale Video

UTD Podcast: Lou's tear-jerking tale

It's Lou Macari's birthday, so here's a reminder why every United fan loves him...

PAUL POGBA

I always feel Paul Pogba is a little enigmatic as he's not necessarily one to regularly speak in the media so it made for interesting listening when he did his UTD Podcast. His stories of growing up in France, arguing with his brothers over their favourite clubs and moving to Manchester told more of the story behind one of the most famous players on the planet. I've always found him engaging and fun company whenever our paths have crossed at the Aon Training Complex so it's good to see that side of him come out. (Adam Marshall, Contributing Editor)

PAUL SCHOLES AND MARCUS RASHFORD

One of my favourite episodes is the one where Paul Scholes and Marcus Rashford make their five-a-side teams and discuss their favourite goals. I remember listening to this when I was jogging up Mount Fløyen back home in Bergen in Norway in the summer, thinking who I would have chosen for my five-a-side team. I like making my own teams of favourite players in general so listening to them doing the same was enjoyable. Being the same age as Marcus, he had the luxury to pick from players that both of us watched in our younger days which brought a nostalgic element to the podcast as well. If you haven’t, make sure you listen to it - it’s a good one! (Lars Magnus Igland Røys, ManUtd.com)

Rashford x Scholes: Our best team-mates Video

Rashford x Scholes: Our best team-mates

Marcus and Paul share stories about some of the best players they've shared a pitch with...

ROBIN VAN PERSIE

If you’ve seen any of Robin’s punditry since he retired last year, you’ll be familiar with his forthright views and insightful analysis of the game. But even when the Dutchman is invited on to a studio panel, you only get minutes with him – we had the fortune to speak to our former Golden Boot winner for an hour-and-a-half! From talking about the psychology of taking a penalty kick to revealing more about his relationship with Louis van Gaal, van Persie’s episode enjoyably flies by – just like that 2012/13 season, when he fired us to the title. (Sam Carney, ManUtd.com)

You can find every previous episode of UTD Podcast here.

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