I've spent over 20 years inside the betting industry. I'll guide you to avoid the hype, ignore the noise, and steer clear of the common pitfalls that catch out everyday punters.
Interview February 2026
What now for Arne Slot and Liverpool after that shock loss to Bournemouth?
I think they've got to regroup. They've got a game in Europe in the week and hopefully they can get the right result and finish in the top eight. They don’t need to have to play a play-off game.
I think watching Liverpool, it's quite strange. Their inconsistency is becoming a little bit of a worry. They went to Marseille and looked very good. They’ve played ever so well in the Champions League.
But in the Premier League it's just been a wee bit too up and down for the champions. It's been a tough season for the players and the manager. I think it just shows you how difficult it is to integrate five big, major signings. All the guys that came in had big price tags and it's been difficult for Arne to get them into the side.
I think there's signs of the players starting to find a bit of form but they now find themselves so far adrift from Arsenal at the top and they also have to be very wary of the Champions League slots. They can't fall away from them either.
Liverpool need stability ⚖️
If enough players can get back to fitness, do Liverpool still have a shot at the Champions League thanks to their European pedigree?
I tend to agree with that because it's a club who knows that they've got an affinity with the Champions League and the old European Cup. I think the fans have got an expectation.
Whenever it's a European night, whatever form the team's in, whether it be in domestic cups or in the league, as soon as it comes to a Champions League night, something happens.
Liverpool all of a sudden fancy themselves to beat anybody, especially under the lights at Anfield. Anfield is pretty special on a European night and teams come and they're aware of that as well. Their history in Europe does go before them.
Anfield nights matter 🌙
What did you make of Salah against Bournemouth in his first Premier League start for Liverpool since 22nd November?
After the season he had last year, when Mo was particularly outstanding, and right through his entire time at Liverpool, his goal scoring, his stats, his assists, everything, all his numbers are outstanding.
He's a top player but he'd be the first guy to say that he's not had a great season. He's suffered a little bit of inconsistency as well.
I also think the loss of Trent Alexander-Arnold has been a big thing for Mo as well because the combination they had on that right-hand side has disappeared.
That's not to say that Connor Bradley or Frimpong can't service Mo Salah but that takes time because Trent and Mo had a special relationship. They knew each other's game so well.
I know there's been a lot of talk about Mo maybe going to Saudi Arabia but I still think he's got too much to offer. He's still got enough to be a big performer and a big player for Liverpool.
Salah still delivers 🇪🇬
It’s been said that Liverpool were ordinary last season and it was only Salah’s extraordinary individual season that set them apart. Are we now seeing the true level of Liverpool without having a Salah in such brilliant form to lift them?
Arne Slot came in and took over from an iconic figure and chose to keep the same group of players. I don't think it was an ordinary year winning a league.
What I would agree with is that in tight moments Salah came up with the answers. He’s a moments player and a big game player.
He was outstanding last year but the goalkeeper was good, Van Dijk was good, and the midfield three were outstanding. As much as Mo grabbed the headlines, they were a solid team together.
More than one man 🧩
What does the downturn this season say about Slot given the record-breaking backing he’s had?
For me, he's still got a lot of credit in the bank. When you win the league at your first go, it's pretty special.
There were subtle changes in style and then the big incoming of signings. I thought all five were top players but it’s been tough for them coming in.
The one that surprised me is Ekitike. He’s been the pick of the signings. He exudes personality and character and his work rate has been fantastic.
Slot still trusted ⏳
Can Ekitike be the difference maker for Liverpool to secure Champions League football this season much like how Salah made the difference to win the title last season?
He absolutely can. Against Frankfurt he was outstanding. Unplayable.
If Liverpool are going to progress and get through into the knockout stages, he's going to play a big part because Isak is not going to be involved.
Ekitike the key 🔑
How much longer does Van Dijk have at the top level given the mistakes he’s been making this season?
Virgil van Dijk is a proper captain and leader. He'll be the first to admit errors.
The back line has changed a lot but he’s still top drawer. It's hard to name many better centre-backs across Europe.
He's going to be key along with Alisson and the midfield if Liverpool are going to progress.
Still top class 🛡️
How high do you think Manchester United can finish under Carrick from what we’ve seen?
Watching the last two games, it’s the first time in a long while they’ve looked like a Manchester United team.
I saw players running hard, working hard and competing. Losing the ball and instantly recovering it.
That’s what Manchester United teams always did. You knew you were in a game because of the physical demands.
United identity back 🔴
What’s your Premier League top six prediction?
I think Man City are going to come again.
City, Arsenal, Villa third. Liverpool fourth. Chelsea fifth. Manchester United sixth.
McAllister’s top six 📊
Given the sort of football Carrick had his Middlesbrough side playing, should he have more to offer United than Solskjaer ever did to make them something other than just a counter-attacking team?
Manchester United have tried a lot of managers and a lot of styles. They've gone down the path of big, charismatic managers and then the so-called super coaches.
What Michael Carrick has is that he shared a changing room with players who were Manchester United through and through. He knows what it takes and what the fans want.
He’s also got the qualifications and knowledge of managing and coaching. His experience at Middlesbrough comes into play and he’s familiar with the surroundings, the expectations and the opponents coming to Old Trafford.
Carrick gets United 🧠
Do Liverpool have anything to fear from a Manchester United side that keeps Carrick on as permanent manager going into next season?
At no stage are Liverpool ever feeling any fear about what Manchester United are doing. It's not that sort of relationship.
They're big rivals and it's always game on. There's no love lost between those clubs.
Rivalry never sleeps 🔥
Roy Keane has said that United shouldn’t give Carrick the job even if he won every single one of United’s remaining games. What do you make of that?
If he gets United into the Champions League that’s a massive plus. To then look elsewhere would be tough.
They’ve tried big names and super coaches. Maybe going with one of their own could work.
It’s hard to call because United have gone round the block on who the managers are.
Results matter 🎯
If Michael Carrick succeeds at United this season, should Liverpool take a look at Steven Gerrard to come in after Arne Slot?
Steven has said that if Liverpool ever need him, he would take any job anywhere within the club.
But Arne Slot still has too much credit in the bank. He needs time and Liverpool need to get into the Champions League.
Slot still trusted ⏳
If United pass up the chance to keep Carrick on, could he be the perfect manager for Celtic next season if Martin O’Neill steps back again?
Celtic are an iconic club with huge expectations.
Managers like Carrick or Gerrard have the credentials to handle that pressure because it’s similar to elite clubs in England.
Built for pressure 🍀
How high is Dominik Szoboszlai’s ceiling as a player? Are the games at right-back taking away from his potential as a midfielder?
He’s a fantastic number eight. He covers ground, shoots from distance and works incredibly hard.
He’s been Liverpool’s most consistent player this season and he’s on course for something special if he keeps improving.
Szoboszlai ceiling 🔝
Spurs are in talks to sign Andy Robertson. Do you think that would be a good move for him?
I still think he’s got enough to stay at Liverpool.
His experience is invaluable, especially in the Champions League, and he can still compete.
Experience counts 🧠
Does Andy Robertson have the right sort of character to become a manager once he retires?
I see Andy as a student of the game.
He communicates well on the pitch and clearly loves football. He’ll stay in the game.
Future manager? 🎓
Curtis Jones is still in and out of the Liverpool team, what does he need to do to be a long-term option?
It’s about consistency.
When he gets a chance he has to build on it and make it impossible to drop him.
He’s inventive, hungry and capable of scoring and creating goals.
Consistency key 🔑
Does Lionel Messi have the style of play to keep going into his 40s?
Messi’s never relied on pace. It’s always been movement, touch and intelligence.
As long as he’s fit and enjoying it, he can keep going.
Timeless Messi 🐐
Can Farke take Leeds to a trophy like Glasner did with Palace?
For Leeds, staying in the Premier League is the priority.
Once they consolidate, then they can look at cups and progression.
One step at a time 🏗️
How good would it be to see Coventry City back in the Premier League?
It would be brilliant.
They’re a proud, one-club city that’s been through tough times. To see them back would be special.
Coventry dream 💙
What’s your Premier League top six prediction?
I think Man City will come again.
City, Arsenal, Villa third, Liverpool fourth, Chelsea fifth and Manchester United sixth.
Final top six call 📊
February 2025 Interview
- Leeds will win the Championship this season
- A change of scenery might be good for Patrick Bamford
- Not a great deal of change is needed at Liverpool
- Trent Alexander-Arnold could leave Liverpool at the end of the season,
- Bigger and better teams than Villa in the Champions League
Speaking exclusively to OLBG.com, British football legend Gary McAllister says he’s been impressed with Leeds United and thinks they’ll win the Championship this season, but a change of scenery might be good for Patrick Bamford.
The former Liverpool midfielder says, ‘not a great deal of change is needed at Liverpool’, but if a player does become available that can make Liverpool better, they should be chasing that player.
He says, Unai Emery has done a fantastic job since arriving at Villa and that whilst Villa are dangerous at Villa Park, he’d still tip Liverpool to win 1-0 and Mohamed Salah to score in tonights match up (Wednesday 19th).
He goes on to say, if one of the three (Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah) might leave Liverpool, ‘you'd probably point towards Trent being the one’.
The former Aston Villa Assistant Manager says Villa have good players but there's ‘bigger and better opponents’ than Villa left in the Champions League.
Match betting odds of games discussed in the interview
These odds from betting sites will be removed once the games have kicked off
Full Interview
Q: Liverpool are currently 13/2 to win the league, League Cup and Champions League treble. Which of those do you think they’ll win?
Liverpool are focusing on taking each game one at a time without getting distracted by talks of doubles or trebles despite their successful season across multiple competitions.
GM: “I've spent quite a bit of time over at Anfield this season and amongst everybody that supports the club I don't think many people are talking about doubles or trebles.
“It's a very humble club, and I know that having played there, my feeling is they are listening to the manager and listening to the players speak after the game.
“Every game seems to be massive, but when they speak after it, they're not looking too far ahead.
“I don't think anybody's talked about doubles or trebles, I know it's an old cliche, but they are taking each game as it comes.
“I felt that it was a surprising loss maybe 10 days ago when Liverpool played Plymouth.
“They came in for a little bit of criticism about Arne Slot and the team that he picked, but I felt Arne picked a team capable of beating a team at the bottom of the Championship, so barring that, the season's been outstanding.
“The semi-final success against Spurs makes for a great final against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup.
“Liverpool are flying in the league, even at the weekend where they didn't feel as if they'd played as well as they could’ve, they just did enough to beat Wolves.
“In the Champions League, they're flying, they've really blasted their way right through that campaign and sat beautifully at the top of that league and are just waiting for the draw.
“Liverpool are just basically listening to the captain, the senior players and the manager, they are taking each game as it comes”.
Q: What are your thoughts on the Trent Alexander-Arnold situation and what would your reaction be if he left on a free transfer?
Trent Alexander-Arnold is a standout player whose contract status, along with Virgil van Dijk and Mo Salah, doesn't appear to be affecting their performance this season, though Trent might be the most likely to leave.
GM: “First and foremost, I'm a massive fan of Trent Alexander-Arnold, he's a fantastic player.
“There's not many players capable of hitting the passes that Trent's capable of.
“In the games this season, he's hit some wonderful passes and had some wonderful assists.
“There's obviously the big three, the captain Virgil van Dijk, Mo Salah (who's been amazing) and Trent Alexander-Arnold who are all out of contract.
“The club have been dealing with it and we've no idea what's happening behind the scenes.
“If you were saying that one of the three or two of the three might leave, you'd probably point towards Trent being the one.
“Conor Bradley's a very talented young right back, so the club are well covered in that position.
“I don't see the three players that are out of contract at the end of the season affecting the season.
“On a few occasions, they might have been distracted, but in general my feeling is that all three players have been outstanding for the club this season”.
Q: Of those three players (Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah), which player would be the toughest to replace if they left?
GM: “Replacing any of those three would be very difficult.
“The goals of Mo Salah and the consistency of the captain Virgil van Dijk this season has been outstanding.
“I think it would be difficult to replace any of the three”.
Q: Where do you think Liverpool need to strengthen in the summer? Are there any players in particular you would be looking at?
Liverpool should pursue any available player who can enhance their squad, particularly focusing on adding depth in the center-back position, midfield goal scoring, and overall firepower.
GM: “Liverpool should always be in the market when anybody that can make them better becomes available.
“That goes for every department of the team. In the back line, into the middle of the park and at the front, if somebody becomes available who can make them better, Liverpool should be in there chasing after that player.
“You only need to look at what's happened at the start of this season - the players Jurgen Klopp left Arne Slot, he didn't rush to bring anybody in, in fact, he's only brought in a couple of players.
“There's not a great deal of change needed, but if a player does become available that can make Liverpool better, they should be chasing that player.
“Personally, I think they've been a wee bit short because of injury in the centre-back area.
“Like all clubs in elite football that play at the very top of the Champions League and their own domestic leagues, they need quality players, two quality players in each position.
“If they can add firepower, somebody to help Mo Salah's goal scoring; more goals coming from the midfield is another place they could look to strengthen and right across the back line.
“Anybody who becomes available that can make Liverpool better they should be looking at”.
Q: Are there any young players that particularly impressed you over the last year or so that you would like Liverpool to snap up?
GM: “The thing is, for the elite clubs who produce young players, you can't go around saying that Liverpool should go after the best young player at Arsenal.
“If a player becomes available, the elite clubs are very keen to keep the best players at their own club, it's to try and predict those young players that are available.
“Maybe in the lower leagues they could look, but again, Liverpool’s recruitment over the last three, four years or even longer has been fairly impressive”.
Q: Liverpool play Aston Villa on Wednesday night (19th) - what are your thoughts and score predictions for the game?
Unai Emery has significantly improved Aston Villa with key player additions, but Liverpool, with Mo Salah in top form, are capable of securing a victory at Villa Park.
GM: “I think Unai Emery's done a fantastic job since arriving.
“Obviously, I was at Villa with Stephen and he's just got a wee bit unlucky at times, but Unai Emery's done really well and I think he brought in Marco Asensio and Marcus Rashford from Manchester United to give him a sort of new lease of life, so to speak.
“Villa are dangerous and at Villa Park, they're very good, going forward they’re very exciting.
“They've got a lot of talented players, (I know that because I've worked with them personally), so I think it's a tough game going to Villa Park.
“Liverpool going there, I think the thing for me is Mo Salah's in some serious form, assisting and scoring.
“My feeling is Liverpool are capable of going there and keeping Marcus Rashford, Ollie Watkins and Marco Asensio or whoever plays up the pitch quiet.
“You've got Youri Tielemans and John McGinn coming from the middle of the park and Morgan Rogers as well.
“Villa are very capable and I like watching them, I've got to say, but I think Liverpool, with Virgil van Dijk at the back and Alisson in good form again, I think Liverpool are capable of keeping a clean sheet and Mo Salah to score.
“Would be a good bet for me, so a 1-0, Salah”.
Q: Liverpool face Man City on Sunday afternoon (23rd) - what are your thoughts and score predictions for the game?
Liverpool face a challenging schedule, and despite Manchester City's recent form and new signings, both teams' attacking strengths suggest a high-scoring draw.
GM: “I've got to say that this is a real tough run of games for Liverpool at the moment, they’ve got Aston Villa and then Man City and then they've got Newcastle, so there's some real tough games.
“I've been really impressed with Omar Marmoush, who Man City have signed, he looks fresh off a hat-trick at the weekend against Newcastle.
“He looks very exciting and he'll add goals to Erling Haaland.
“I think everybody's sort of, not necessarily criticising Haaland, but saying he's not been the same player this season, but he's still scored 19, 20 goals.
“Liverpool have to keep them quiet, Phil Foden is starting to get back to the form that he showed last season.
“I think there'll be goals in that game.
“I can see Manchester City scoring because after a tough little period they looked nice and fresh at the weekend and with the new signings that they've made it’s given them a little lift so I think I can see both teams scoring.
“I think there'll be goals in that game, with all the forward-thinking players that are on the pitch, it can only be goals.
“I'm going to go for a 2-2 draw. I think that could be a really exciting game”.
Q: Coventry City have been flying in the Championship under Frank Lampard - can they make the playoffs and get promoted?
Frank Lampard has Coventry playing well, and while the playoffs are unpredictable, there's decent value in their 14/1 odds to secure promotion.
GM: “Frank has started really well. I think they were in a decent position when he got there and I was really surprised to see Mark Robins go.
“Coventry do tend to finish the season well, they come with late runs to get themselves up into the playoffs.
“I think at the top of the league, it's looking as if the top two are pulling away and then it's a bit of a bun fight for the next four slots.
“I've got a soft spot for Coventry City obviously, they were very good, a smashing family club.
“Frank has got them playing but I thought they played some good stuff under Mark Robins as well.
“My feeling is they think Coventry will just jump into the playoff slots”.
Q: They (Coventry City) are best priced 14/1 to go up on OLBG.com - would you back that?
GM: “14/1 to go up through the playoffs, it's going to be tough.
“The playoffs are very difficult to predict, but being biased, looking at the clubs at the top of the league, another one of my old clubs, it would be nice if Leeds went up. I know Sheffield United are sitting in second, Burnley are going really well and West Brom are a good side.
“However, it would be nice to see Coventry go up, 14/1 is decent odds, good value there”.
Q: How highly do you rate Frank Lampard? If he takes Coventry into the playoffs and up - is he in with a shout of being the best mid-season managerial appointment ever?
Despite past challenges, Frank Lampard's perseverance and passion for football are evident in his positive impact at a supportive club, potentially leading to a successful turnaround.
GM: “Frank’s had his ups and downs and he's persevered and he's kept at it and it's nice to see somebody, an ex-player, a very high profile, wonderful player, who quite simply must love the game doing well.
“He's had his knock at tough times in some of his managerial slots, but very keen to rub himself, dust himself down and get back involved.
“I tip my hat to Frank for keeping going.
“He's at a good club with good people, so it would be a fantastic turnaround.
“I think there's been some decent work done by the club and the previous manager and Frank went in and just gave it a nice little bit of a lift and hopefully that can push them up”.
Q: Coventry City face Preston North End on Saturday (22nd) - what are your thoughts and score predictions for the game?
GM: “Well I'm always a bit biased here, I've not watched a great deal of Preston, I know their form has been a wee bit better recently, but I'd fancy Coventry City to win. Coventry to win 1-0, that'll do me”.
Q: Leeds are also flying this season - will they get automatic promotion?
Leeds United, with their strong squad depth and Daniel Farke's tactical decisions, seem poised to be league champions, likely going up alongside Sheffield United.
GM: “Yes, I think they will.
“I've been impressed with Leeds United this season.
“I think the squad's pretty deep and I think that's a big advantage, even last night when they've got Joe Rothwell on the bench, Wilfried Gnonto on the bench, Largie Ramazani on the bench and Pascal Struijk coming on, I think Daniel Farke has got that ability to change things in games that are really tight.
“The game was really tight and they were looking as if they were going to go away with no points, but just a couple of fantastic decisions to put Pascal Struijk and Joe Rothwell on and they were involved.
“Both of them were involved in both goals, assisting and scoring.
“I think Leeds are strong and at Elland Road, I don't know if you've seen any of the game last night, the place erupted when they got themselves in front, it was proper chaos, which was good to see.
“My feeling is Leeds will be champions, I think they've got enough, I think they're the best team in the league.
“I'm not underestimating what Chris Wilder is doing over at Bramall Lane at Sheffield United.
“My feeling is those two will go up. I think the top two are starting to pull away a little bit, but my feeling is Leeds United will be favourites to be champions, but again, next Monday night, it's at Bramall Lane.
“That's going to be a cracker. A battle of the top two”.
Q: Leeds are 1/5 on with bookmakers on OLBG.com to win the league - would you back that?
“Well, I think for me, it's not great value, but it's still a safe bet you'd be maybe buying some money there”.
Q: Who will go up with Leeds - you're going to say Sheffield United?
GM: “Yes, I think Chris Wilder has got a fantastic record in that division.
“He's an expert at getting teams in, especially Sheffield United as well.
“Yes, my feeling is Chris has got enough knowledge to get Sheffield United up.
“So again, I don't know what the prices are for Sheffield United, but my feeling is the top two are destined to go up”.
Q: Patrick Bamford hasn’t started a game all season or scored a goal - does he still have a future at the club?
Patrick Bamford struggles with injuries but has scoring potential, and Leeds may need to strengthen their attack to compete effectively in the Premier League.
GM: “He's had a real horrible run of injury problems at his time at Elland Road, but whenever he gets a run of games, he is very capable of scoring.
“It might even be good for Patrick to make a little change of scenery as well.
“It's been really tough for him. I would say he's well respected and the fans really like him because they know if he gets a consistent run of just staying away from injury, he's capable of scoring.
“Daniel James is coming in with goals, Joel Piroe has got some goals, so there are goal scorers in the Leeds United team, but I think come the point where Leeds know that they're looking as if they might get up into the top league, that's an area where the jump in the levels goes, it's a big jump to go from scoring in the Championship, to be scoring in the Premier League.
“So that's an area where Leeds will need to be strengthening”.
Q: Leeds made a big profit on player sales in the summer and didn’t spend any money in January - which players should they target in the summer if they do go up?
Finding a proven goal scorer is challenging in football, but Leeds United's appeal as a big club with strong support could attract the right talent.
GM: “When it comes to goal scorers, even the teams in the Champions League, and right across world football, there's a scarcity of players who can score regularly. Teams are always on the hunt for someone who is a proven goal scorer at the top level.
“It's a difficult market that, to pull somebody out, I'm sure the recruitment team at Elland Road will be scouring the whole world to find somebody and come up with a name.
“It's a tough prospect to try and find a goalscorer, especially when you're a team that's just coming up.
“Anybody that knows the size of Leeds United, there's a big lure there, It's a big city club, one city club.
“I spent a wonderful six years at Leeds, It's a great club, so anybody that comes in they'll get the full backing of a great support”.
Q: Leeds United have a local derby against Sheffield United on Monday (24th) - what are your thoughts and score predictions for the game?
GM: “If you were cynical, you would look at that game and if you said to both managers prior to the game, would you take a draw? They wouldn’t own up to saying it, but they probably would. So a draw would be suitable for both clubs just to pull another point away from the rest.
“My feeling is, I played in that game and there's no love lost even though both clubs are going really well.
“Bramall Lane, like Elland Road, is slightly smaller in numbers but it's a place that rocks, especially when Leeds United come to town.
“So the atmosphere will be brilliant inside Bramall Lane but I think Leeds can go there and win.
“My loyalties go with the club that I captained and I fancy Leeds to go there and score.
“My feeling is they'll keep a clean sheet, they'll allow Sheffield United the ball and catch them on the break, on the turnover. I think Leeds can win that 2-0”.
Q: How far can Aston Villa go in the Champions League?
Aston Villa, under Unai Emery, might progress in the Champions League with luck, but truly competing at such an elite level will require time and building a deeper squad, making a 40/1 bet more of a fan's hopeful wager than a sure thing.
GM: ”Well, they've done amazing to get there, it will be tough, but I think they can get through the next one and then it's the luck of the draw.
“It's tough, but Villa are capable.
“They've got good players, they've got players that have played in Europe, but going deep into the tournament there's some bigger and better opponents I'm afraid”.
Q: Aston Villa are best priced 40/1 to win the Champion League on OLBG.com - is there any value in that?
“If you're a Villa fan it might be worth a little splash but I think Unai Emery has been brought in to make Villa competitive.
“It's a club that has won the European Cup so they do have history, but I think it's a big club in the second biggest city.
“The owners and the manager are very keen to make Aston Villa a competitive team in the elite event.
“It can't be done overnight, it can't be done in a couple of seasons, it needs time to build a squad to really compete at elite level and the Champions League is the biggest tournament in the world”.
Q: What did you say to Alex Ferguson that saw him ignore you for 20 years?
GM: “I was in Lee Chapman's living room and I was unaware that Alex Ferguson could hear me, but Alex was saying that Leeds hadn’t won the league and that Manchester United had won the league, so it was just a fun response of saying, ‘as gracious as ever in defeat’, which I didn't realise that Alex could hear me.
“Moving on from that, he was very supportive of myself when I went through a little tough time, with family problems.
“When I see him now, it's well gone, it's in the past that one, but it was the fact that he was saying that Leeds hadn't won the league, but we had won it!”
Q: What are your memories of the 5-4 victory over Alaves in the UEFA Cup final in 2001?
In a dramatic match determined by a golden goal, Liverpool let Alaves gain momentum despite an early lead, ultimately winning amid a thrilling atmosphere and some confusion over the sudden-death rule.
GM: “It was a unique game in the fact that it was decided with a golden goal.
“We started very fast, we got ourselves in front, we did a man and I felt we could go on and really win 3,4,5-0, but subconsciously, maybe we just sat and didn’t protect our lead.
“That allowed Alaves to gain a little bit of momentum to get back to 2-1, but then we went 3-1 and then it was just a game of basketball then, both sets of fans Westfalenstadion in Dortmund were absolutely buzzing, Alaves fans were amazing, Liverpool fans were amazing and it was uncanny that it got to extra time.
“It was a game that I felt we should have won comfortably but we just allowed Alaves to get a wee bit of momentum, but to finish with a golden goal, the thing that I do remember about that was when it flipped in of the defender off a free kick.
“If you ever see the game back, there's four or five of our players who were going back to the centre circle, they had no idea that the game was finished and it was decided on a golden goal”.
Q: What are your memories of Leeds’ title win in 1992?
After being promoted, Leeds United capitalized on strong momentum and a solid team, eventually winning the league, aided by key signings and experienced leadership, culminating in a memorable victory parade.
GM: “Well the thing is, I'd signed for the club the previous season and they'd just got up from the old second division, so it was really good effort to finish, I think we finished fourth in the league that year.
“I felt with that momentum that the second season in from getting up from the old second division that Leeds could definitely push for the title.
“We had the form of Gordon Strachan and the goal scorer of Lee Chapman aided with Rod Wallace and then laterally in that season, Eric Cantona came in the January window to help boost us as well, but we had a really strong backline.
“The goalkeeper was outstanding, he had won leagues before with Arsenal.
“The two centre-halves, Chris Fairclough and Chris Whyte were outstanding.
“Mel Sterland and Tony Dorigo, then came across the middle of the park, I played in the midfield, which was probably one of the best I'd played alongside.
“Gordon Strachan, David Batty (God bless him) and Gary Speed, so it was a real strong side.
“An experienced side with some fantastic youth products in David Batty and Gary Speed and then with the help of the fans, we just gathered momentum, the manager was very calm throughout the entire campaign. Even when we had some poor results, which they did happen, even in the running, he was very calm.
“He says, listen, all we can do is go again, very similar to Arne Slot, the way Arne Slot is dealing with stuff at Liverpool at the moment.
“Let's just take care of the next game, let's see what happens if we win because Manchester United had a strong lead. So we just kept winning and put the pressure on Manchester United and we did win the league.
“It was fantastic to see I think there might have been 300,000 people on the streets of Leeds when we did the bus parade, it was a special memory”.
Q: How good was Eric Cantona back then? Were you gutted when he moved to Man Utd?
Eric Cantona's transfer from Leeds to Manchester United was contentious given the rivalry, but his time at Leeds highlighted his talent, which was a key period leading up to his role in the French squad for Euro '92.
GM: "Well, when you make that move there's no love lost between Leeds and Manchester United, I think most people know that.
“So to make that move, it doesn't go down well with the support of Elland Road, but in his period at the club, you could see instantly he was special.
“I remember, I think he'd been on trial at Sheffield Wednesday, a couple of days before he signed for Leeds United, with Trevor Francis the manager of Sheffield Wednesday at the time.
“I don't think he could make the decision on Eric because I think that there had been a big drop of snow and they couldn't train outside so the couple of sessions that he had at Wednesday were indoor, but Howard Wilkinson took a chance.
“I don't think he was taking a big chance, Cantona was a big name in France and I think Michel Platini wanted him to get games prior to the Euros in 92’.
“I think the fact that Howard gave him the games got Eric into this Platini squad for the Euros in Sweden, so as much as he did fantastically with that little period from January through to May, it wasn't great to see him going over to the big rivals of Leeds, Man Utd, where he did pretty well”.
Q: What was your favourite international tournament you played in for Scotland?
Participating in major tournaments like Italia '90 and Euro '96 was a fantastic experience, despite the memorable low of missing a penalty against England, with Euro '96 being particularly remarkable for the Scottish fans' support and competitive matches.
GM: “I went to Italia 90’ but didn't get on the pitch, but to go there and just witness a major tournament was brilliant. I enjoyed the whole camaraderie of the preparation of going to a major tournament.
“Then up to Sweden, there were only eight teams in the Euros in 92’. We were in a group with Holland, Germany and Russia.
“So again, that was a fantastic experience. We played against two very good teams in Germany and Holland, but the surprise that Euros was the fact that Denmark won it.
“They hadn't even qualified, they got there because of the troubles in Yugoslavia. So that was an amazing tournament.
“The one that's a horrendous memory for me is obviously missing a penalty against England at Wembley, but Euro 96’ was a fantastic tournament.
“The Scotland fans, we had two games at Villa Park and obviously played England at Wembley.
“The two games at Villa Park were fantastic. To see the Scottish fans come down in their thousands and we just got pipped right at the very end.
“My feeling is, and I never really watched the Scotland vs England game back even from all those years ago, but during Covid, I did watch it back and I was really surprised how much we were on top against England.
“I can safely say if I scored the penalty against England, we would go on to win the game because we were that period in the game where we battered in England, I felt, having watched it back for the first time in many years.
“Again, not an excuse but Uri Geller is still talking about how he was flying above Wembley and he caused the ball to move. I've got to say the ball did move, hence me smashing the penalty down the middle, David Seaman makes a save, the ball breaks to Gazza and Gazza then scores a wonderful goal and England win the game.
“As much as it's one of the worst memories of my career, missing a penalty against the old enemy at Wembley, the whole experience of Euro 96’ was brilliant.
“Again, we were based in Stratford, and the whole build up to the tournament, we went to the USA to build, to prepare, came back to Stratford to get tuned in for the three games, but the three games were brilliant, against Holland, Switzerland and England. It was a great tournament”.
Q: What was your favourite goal that you ever scored in your career?
A memorable goal for Liverpool against Everton in the 2001 Merseyside derby from nearly 50 yards out remains significant, often replayed, and contributed to Liverpool's Champions League qualification, creating a lasting memory of Goodison Park.
GM: “I scored a good goal against Glasgow Rangers in the old European Cup for Leeds United, a volley from the edge of the box.
“However, the goal that gets shown every year is my goal for Liverpool against Everton in 2001.
“Purely because the Merseyside derby is played every year and obviously I went to the last one the other night at Goodison Park, and that was a special game as well.
“Probably felt like a win that did for Everton, scoring, James Tarkowski scoring with the last kick of the game.
“The goal that I managed to score from quite a way out against Everton at Goodison went a long way for the club, for Liverpool qualifying for the Champions League that season so the goal from 40 yards is the one. In fact, I think it was closer to 50 yards in all honesty!
“So that one against Everton in the last minute of the last kick of the game at Goodison you know and now that Everton are moving to the new stadium. It's a good memory to have of the old Goodison”.
Q: What trophy win meant the most to you in your career?
While winning a league title reflects consistency over a season, the FA Cup holds a special place for its history and nostalgia, making it the most cherished trophy despite other memorable achievements like the UEFA Cup.
GM: “Well that's the thing, winning a league is the barometer for any player to win a league.
“A league championship tells you the story of a consistency level through 38 games.
“So winning a league always supersedes cups, but for nostalgia, my feeling, the medal that I treasure most is the FA Cup.
“As much as the UEFA Cup was a memorable night for me personally, involved in a few of the goals and got man of the match, and it was not so much winning man of the match but being presented the trophy from Johan Cruyff who was one of my all-time heroes; but winning the FA Cup was so special because of the history and the nostalgia of the world's oldest trophy.
“It was played at the Millennium Stadium rather than Wembley, but to win that little FA badge is the one that I cherish the most”.
Q: Who was the best manager you ever played under and why?
Having learned from various managers throughout his career, GM holds both Howard Wilkinson and Gérard Houllier in high regard, valuing their unique contributions to his professional journey and success.
GM: “You know what, having been involved in management, managed and being an assistant and getting to know how really difficult and how dedicated you have to be and how many hours you have to put in - I've got to say there's not one manager I didn't cherry pick a little bit of something from.
“Howard Wilkinson was impeccable in his preparation, then I played under Gordon Strachan, my first manager at Motherwell was David Hay and then I had Tommy McLean and Jock Wallace at Motherwell, so three sort of legends of the Scottish game.
“Gérard Houllier took an almighty risk and a punt on signing myself at 35, so I owe Gérard Houllier for that. I'm so grateful for it, he gave me a chance to go to such a great club.
“I was fortunate enough to win a treble with Gérard Houllier at Liverpool, but again, Liverpool, they gauge their success on winning the league.
“So winning the league under Howard Wilkinson at Leeds, I suppose that's the one, but it would be a toss up between Gerrard and Howard.
“In fact, it would be very difficult to separate the period, and both of them are outstanding”.
Q: Who was the best player you ever managed?
Among the many talented players GM has worked with, Steven Davis stands out for his leadership, professionalism, and pivotal role in Glasgow Rangers' efforts to stop Celtic's dominance.
GM: “The best player I ever managed, when I managed at Leeds United there was a youngster who was catching the eye of loads of people in and around the club. There was a young Fabian Delph
“I worked with some really outstanding players at Glasgow Rangers when I was up there with Stephen Gerrard. I really enjoyed that.
“Obviously when we went to Villa, there were some outstanding players at Villa. during that whole period of being involved in management and being an assistant, I think the one that jumps out is Steven Davis at Glasgow Rangers who was fantastic and just the way he held himself and the way he worked and the way he prepared for games, he was outstanding.
“Steven Davis, he was such a leader when we needed somebody, the club had gone through a tough time at Rangers trying to stop Celtic and he was one of the big reasons and he was really pivotal up at Rangers, so, definitely Steven Davis”.
Q: Who was the hardest player you played with?
Despite Vinnie Jones' tough-guy image, David Batty was the hardest player, known for his unassuming tenacity, technical skill, and ability to anticipate and win possessions on the field.
GM: “You'd be surprised, there are some players that I played alongside, Vinnie Jones for a short period and everybody knows and sees Vinnie as this big hard man and since he's moved to Hollywood he's always depicted as a big sort of gangster type fella. He's a big softy really, he's a very caring and conscientious fella. He's a great guy.
“One tough player who never shirked anything and was always in the face of opponents; I played with a guy called Ally Mauchlen at Motherwell and at Leicester City.
“But the hardest player by quite a distance was David Batty, he was tough, he was unassuming, he was win at all costs, he was an outstanding player, technically brilliant, very good, great skills, great passing range. His strength was destroying, he anticipated tackles and anticipated winning the ball, nicking and stealing the ball, so, Batty was the toughest”.
Q: Which English ground had the best atmosphere you played at?
GM: “The stadiums that I enjoyed playing at were the old-fashioned ones, I really enjoyed playing at Villa Park.
“I played there (Villa Park) in the Euros, which was immense, I played there with the Scotland fans.
“I used to really enjoy playing at the old Highbury, with the fans very close to the pitch as well, the pitch was always quite a fast pitch, so the game was always pretty electric, but I would have to say Villa Park was my favourite ground”.
Q: Which European ground had the best atmosphere you played at?
While I appreciated playing in iconic stadiums like Barcelona's Camp Nou, the Stadio Olimpico in Rome stands out as a special venue due to its history and atmosphere during domestic Italian games.
GM: “I played in some good grounds, I played in the Olympic Stadium in Moscow once and there was thousands at the game, it was strange in the fact that most of the crowd was the army.
“The stadium I really enjoyed playing in was Stadio Olimpico in Italy.
“I could picture the stadium because of watching Lazio play Roma in the domestic games in Rome, but to play in Rome in the Olympic Stadium, the Stadio Olimpico, was pretty special.
“We played in Barcelona, but it was very strange, during the European run with Leeds United.
“Stuttgart played too many foreigners, they had too many foreigners on the pitch at the same time, so we had to go to a third game which was played in the Nou Camp, but there was nobody there, as the game was at a neutral stadium.
“It was amazing, having to go up onto the ground and there's a little chapel in the tunnel.
“The Nou Camp was outstanding but it was strange the fact that nobody was there, so I'd have to go for Stadio Olimpico in Rome”.
