John had to travel from Turin to Zurich for the World Cup qualifying draw and then to the UK for a planned commentary on Nottingham Forest vs. Aston Villa. However, he got stranded in Amsterdam and had to stay overnight, delaying his return.
Their taxi was pulled over by the police on the way to the airport, and the driver left them in the car while he went to speak with the police. They later faced a series of flight cancellations, resulting in a 27-hour journey home.
John referenced Tuchel's previous interview where he didn't wear a tie but had a new suit. This time, Tuchel wore a wool suit for warmth, which John mentioned to lighten the mood before the interview.
Pep Guardiola had already refused an interview with Sky Television and was not interested in speaking to the media. Despite being approached by John, he gave a very brief and monosyllabic response.
Games are selected two weeks in advance for the first half of the season, but this changes to 10 days and then 7 days notice for the second half. The selection is based on where the story is expected to be, often focusing on matches with high drama or significant narratives.
They have a natural chemistry and warmth in their interactions, and they often get to cover exciting matches together. Clinton is known for his enthusiasm and positivity, making their partnership engaging and enjoyable.
Steve says it can be easier on the radio than on TV because the commentators, like Mike Costello or John Rawlin, have great voices and can describe the action vividly. They often sit very close to the ring, allowing them to see and hear every detail of the fight.
Shane McGuigan, during Anthony Joshua's fight, accurately predicted that Joshua would get knocked out if he threw a certain right uppercut. His prediction came true moments later, showcasing precise and insightful commentary.
Ian mentioned Lamine Yamal's goal in the semi-finals of the Euros, where he became the youngest ever goal scorer in the history of the European Championships. The goal was a left-footed curler into the net.
Ali highlighted Jordan Shaqiri's goal for Switzerland against Scotland, a stunning shot from 35 yards that no goalkeeper could have stopped. Shaqiri also scored in six consecutive major tournaments with that goal.
John Murray returns with Ian Dennis and Ali Bruce-Ball to lift the lid on life as a commentator. From being pulled over by police in Moscow to talking tailoring with Thomas Tuchel, they reveal the stories they don’t normally get to hear. Plus, Steve Bunce drops in from Riyadh ahead of #UsykFury2 to talk boxing commentary. And Clash of the Commentators takes on an Asian feel.
01:20 Interviewing Thomas Tuchel 02:55 27-hour journey back from Moscow 08:10 Don’t speak to Pep on the golf course 11:10 How are commentary games chosen? 13:55 Commentating with Clinton Morrison 18:10 Steve Bunce talks boxing commentary 28:25 Best goal scored by a European player this year? 33:30 Clash of the Commentators goes Asian 38:05 Looking ahead to the weekend’s fixtures 42:00 The Great Glossary of Football Commentary
BBC Sounds / 5 Live Premier League commentaries this weekend: Sat 21 Dec, 1500: West Ham v Brighton on 5 Live Sat 21 Dec, 1730: Crystal Palace v Arsenal on 5 Live Sun 22 Dec, 1400: Everton v Chelsea on 5 Live Sun 22 Dec, 1400: Man Utd v Bournemouth on 5 Sports Extra Sun 22 Dec, 1400: Fulham v Southampton on BBC Sport website Sun 22 Dec, 1400: Leicester v Wolves on BBC Sport website Sun 22 Dec, 1630: Tottenham v Liverpool on 5 Live