The Blue Frontier - American Everton Analysis
A balanced, passionate, and analytical view of Everton Football Club, on and off the pitch. Brought to you by James Boyman, Ryan Williams, and Shan Khan. The Blue Frontier podcast is an independent, fan-produced show and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Everton Football Club.
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The Summer of Squad Decisions
05/14/2025
The Summer of Squad Decisions
With the arrival of a new CEO and signs of movement on the transfer committee, The full Blue Frontier crew returns to assess a crucial summer for Everton. The episode opens with the official news that Goodison Park will become the permanent home of Everton Women, a move that carries both emotional and financial weight. From there, Ryan walks through the club’s PSR outlook and explains why Everton may actually be in a better financial position than many fans assume. The main event is a full squad audit, focusing first on players out of contract this summer like Calvert-Lewin, Gana, and Doucouré, before shifting to decisions around one-year players including Garner, Mykolenko, and Tarkowski. Along the way, the group discusses listener poll results, the Beto vs. DCL debate, Jesper Lindstrøm’s uncertain role, and whether it’s finally time for a reset at fullback. Socials, Discord, and all platforms:
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FULHAM POST-MATCH: Second Half Surprise Surge
05/10/2025
FULHAM POST-MATCH: Second Half Surprise Surge
James and Ryan are here to deliver a lively breakdown of Everton’s stunning 1-3 comeback against Fulham at Craven Cottage, turning a shaky first half into a triumphant Thames-side affair. The hosts dissect an uncharacteristic Toffees performance: their first away win from a 1-0 deficit in over two years. Vitali Mykolenko, Michael Keane, and Beto stole the show, with Keane’s towering header and Beto’s slick finish overpowering Marco Silva’s Fulham, despite Alex Iwobi’s early threat. The duo dives into David Moyes’ tactical tweaks, game-changing subs, and Charly Alcaraz’s dazzling display, fueling "debate" over his transfer option. They also tackle Doucouré’s wage controversy and Beto’s transfer rumors. The episode is packed with fan reactions, lineup analysis, and a peek at the Premier League table, and is a must-listen for Evertonians and football fans alike. Join the fun on Discord and follow for more Everton FC updates, match highlights, and analysis! LINKS: https://linktr.ee/thebluefrontier
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IPSWICH TOWN POST-MATCH: Goodison’s Last 3PM Letdown
05/03/2025
IPSWICH TOWN POST-MATCH: Goodison’s Last 3PM Letdown
Unfortunately, Everton again drop points after having a 2-0 lead against a surprisingly stout Ipswich side at the 2nd to last league match, and final 3pm kickoff at Goodison. Ryan and James bring you all the details: from the fantastic display in the stands courtesy of the 1878s, to the bangers scored by both sides, and beyond. James and Ryan along with help from a ton of listener comments get into the performances and the narratives. Per usual, the duo try and break down what they believe are many overactions on social media, especially about the ideas comparing Moyes to Dyche, and finish up with a quick preview of the upcoming Fulham match. Shoutout to Shan Khan who was absent today due to being on the premises to witness the match in person. Safe travels! LINKS: https://linktr.ee/thebluefrontier
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RECRUITMENT MODELS, PART 2: Brighton & Hove Albion
04/30/2025
RECRUITMENT MODELS, PART 2: Brighton & Hove Albion
In this compelling episode of The Blue Frontier, hosts James Boyman, Ryan, and Shan embark on a deep dive into Brighton and Hove Albion’s renowned recruitment strategy, widely regarded as the Premier League’s gold standard, to uncover lessons for Everton’s anticipated summer overhaul under the Friedkin Group. Sparked by Angus Kinnear’s claim that Brighton adopted a conservative approach upon promotion, the trio meticulously traces the Seagulls’ journey from Championship contenders to Europa League qualifiers. They analyze Tony Bloom’s data-driven vision, Dan Ashworth’s youth development expertise, and pivotal signings like Moises Caicedo, Alexis MacAllister, and Pervis Estupinan, highlighting Brighton’s knack for balancing young talents with strategic veteran free transfers. With a keen eye on Everton’s future, the hosts explore how a strong club identity, transparency, and high-ROI recruitment can navigate personnel changes and challenges to build a competitive squad. This episode is a must-listen for Evertonians, Premier League fans, and tactical enthusiasts eager to understand what it takes to rise in the top flight. Follow, share, and subscribe for more Everton insights and Premier League deep dives! LINKS:
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CHELSEA POST-MATCH: Can't Bridge the Billion Pound Gap
04/26/2025
CHELSEA POST-MATCH: Can't Bridge the Billion Pound Gap
Unfortunately, Everton could not sell a hotel or it’s women’s team to fund talent to overcome the tactical and performance challenges at Stamford Bridge, as the Toffees fell 1-0 to Champion's League-aspiring Chelsea. Despite a 30-match winless streak at the Bridge and a daunting billion-dollar net spend gap, the Toffees showed fight, with tactical shifts and a couple of standout moments keeping the contest close. The trio dives into Nicolas Jackson’s decisive goal, Jordan Pickford’s clutch saves, and the promising debut of the Jared Branthwaite-Jake O’Brien center-back pairing. They tackle the tactical mismatch, Nathan Patterson’s tough day against Madueke, and Charly Alcaraz’s lively second-half cameo, while questioning the malaise around a predictably tough fixture. They then reflect on Everton’s brutal April, debate goal responsibility (it’s not what you think!), and look ahead to a lighter final four matches, including a preview of Ipswich at Goodison—where you might spot Shan on Merseyside! As always, thanks to the loyal listeners for their contributions! LINKS:
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MAN CITY POST-MATCH: X (Twitter) Spaces Roundtable
04/22/2025
MAN CITY POST-MATCH: X (Twitter) Spaces Roundtable
A belated posting of the X (formerly Twitter) Spaces hosted by Shan & Ryan following Everton's 0-2 defeat at Goodison Park to Man City. Accompanied by a number of guests, the guys discuss a number of different topics: Impact of injuries on Everton's strategy, Future prospects for player development and potential transfers Challenges and opportunities facing the team in the summer transfer window. The performance of strikers, particularly focusing on DCL's future. Disappointment in current performances Contract negotiations The emotional significance of the farewell to Goodison Park. The need for strategic signings to enhance the squad and reflect on memorable moments at the historic stadium. Huge thanks to all who contributed! PRODUCER'S NOTE: Apologies for the delay in getting this up, and for the inconsistent recording schedule over the last few weeks. We have had busy schedules between ToffeeFest, the holiday, etc. But expect to be back strong to finish the season and ahead of a big summer. Thanks as always for your support! LINKS: https://linktr.ee/thebluefrontier
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TOFFEE-FEST RECAP: Celebrating Doucoure's Winner in San Diego
04/14/2025
TOFFEE-FEST RECAP: Celebrating Doucoure's Winner in San Diego
In this episode, James and Shan reflect on their experience at Toffee Fest 2025 in San Diego, discussing the vibrant atmosphere, the weekend's activities, and of course, Everton's dramatic 1-0 victory vs Nottingham Forest. This episode represents a slight departure from the Blue Frontier's normal post-match episodes, with a more relaxed look at the game with a focus on the experience of a last-minute victory surrounded by fellow Blues. The guys highlight the team's growing confidence and strategic approach under manager David Moyes, the community engagement at Toffee Fest, reflections on Everton's rich history, and the excitement surrounding upcoming matches. Producer's Note: Thanks for indulging us on a different format this weekend, we expected to be able to record more content, but the San Diego & NA Toffees put forward a weekend full of activities! Many thanks to all who helped organize, to Matt Clevy for being a legendarily tall chauffeur and awesome person, to Darren Stuart and David France for being excellent guest speakers, the San Diego Loyal for hosting us at their tailgate, and all the amazing Toffees we had the pleasure of meeting! We'll be back to regularly scheduled programming soon enough. LINKS:
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ARSENAL POST-MATCH: Return of the Ndiaye
04/05/2025
ARSENAL POST-MATCH: Return of the Ndiaye
Maybe it wasn’t the prettiest affair, but The Blue Frontier delivers a lively episode brimming with banter and sharp analysis. Hosts James, Shan, and Ryan kick things off with an exciting breakdown of the upcoming Toffee Fest 2025 in San Diego, where James and Shan will be on hand to join Everton ambassador Graham Stewart and over 170 North American supporters for a packed weekend of festivities. The full trio then dives into Everton’s gritty 1-1 draw against Arsenal at Goodison Park—a cagey, tactical match that lacked sustained quality but in which the Toffees showcased resilience. Iliman Ndiaye’s cool-headed penalty canceled out Leandro Trossard’s opener, while Jordan Pickford’s heroics kept the home side in contention. The hosts unpack lineup changes, spotlighting players like Nathan Patterson and Tim Iroegbunam stepping up (or not), Ndiaye and Dwight McNeil making their return from injury, and veterans like Idrissa Gueye excelling while others fade. With humor and insight, they also analyze what this point against a rotated Arsenal side could mean—can Everton build on it against top-tier foes? Looking ahead, they prep listeners for a battle of similar styles against Nottingham Forest, armed with data and tactical takeaways. As always, listener comments weave through the episode—thanks for your amazing support! Casual fans and die-hard Blues will love this front-row seat to the action. Follow, share, and subscribe for more Everton insights! BLUE FRONTIER LINKS: TOFFEE FEST 2025 REGISTRATION:
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LIVERPOOL POST-MATCH: Depressing Anfield Derby (Again)
04/03/2025
LIVERPOOL POST-MATCH: Depressing Anfield Derby (Again)
After a long wait for another post-match, the Blue Frontier is back after Everton’s gritty 1-0 loss to Liverpool in the 246th Merseyside Derby. The trio is fired up and ready to go through what was a somewhat lackluster (albeit competitive) loss at Anfield. In this episode, they break down all the tactics and matchups, as well as discuss the more memorable moments such as from Vitaliy Mykolenko’s masterclass against Mo Salah, to Beto’s near-miss heroics, and James Tarkowski’s thunderous tackle sparking red-card debates. Tactical insights shine as they analyze Everton’s defensive resilience, Liverpool’s attacking edge, and the frustrating VAR calls that left Toffee fans fuming. James, Shan, and Ryan also give their take on some of other individual performances and what’s next for the Toffees as they enter into a difficult April calendar. The guys thank you all again for your listener comments via the discord and social media. LINKS:
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FOOTBALL RECRUITMENT MODELS, PART 1: Newcastle United
03/30/2025
FOOTBALL RECRUITMENT MODELS, PART 1: Newcastle United
The Blue Frontier begins their first of a multi-part series, looking at different Premier League clubs' transfer strategies, and assessing what Everton can learn from different approaches to team building as the Toffees prepare for a massive rebuild this summer. The first team in the series, having just won their first trophy in 70 years, is Newcastle United. NUFC have spent big, but in doing so built a very good squad which is consistently contending for European football since the Saudi Arabian investment in October 2021. James, Shan, and Ryan walk through the evolution of the current Newcastle side from the hiring of Eddie Howe in November that year to the most recent move for Paul Mitchell, including the latter's vocal criticism of the past recruitment strategies. Once fully recapped, the guys look at their prognosis going forward. This episode goes DEEP into every window since the takeover, walking through the various structures, the influence of Dan Ashworth and Nick Hammond (who was at Leeds and is linked to Everton), Darren Eales, etc. If you enjoyed the episode, or have any feedback reach out and let us know! And please be sure to leave us a rating/review on your podcast platform of choice. LINKS: Production: James Boyman
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EVERTON EXECUTIVE SHAKEUP: Kinnear Deep Dive & Lessons From Leeds
03/20/2025
EVERTON EXECUTIVE SHAKEUP: Kinnear Deep Dive & Lessons From Leeds
Everton’s new era under The Friedkin Group is starting to take shape, and The Blue Frontier crew is here to break it all down. In this episode, James, Ryan, and Shan take a deep dive into the appointment of Angus Kinnear as CEO-in-waiting. What does his tenure at Leeds United tell us about his vision for Everton? With a strong background in commercial growth and a different approach to football operations, Kinnear’s arrival raises major questions about the club’s recruitment strategy, its evolving structure, and the long-term sustainability of this model. The team analyzes his past decisions, his views on PSR, and the delay in his start date—plus, how his leadership could shape Everton’s future alongside David Moyes. They also examine the financial realities of modern football, the role of a director of football, and the risks and rewards of moving away from existing recruitment structures. With insights from The Square Ball and Paddy Boyland (thanks to both for the fantastic source material), this is an in-depth look at the biggest off-pitch story at Everton right now. Is this the bold move Everton needs, or are the Toffees taking a massive gamble? 🎧 Follow, share, and subscribe for more in-depth Everton analysis! LINKS: The Square Ball Youtube channel (to watch the Kinnear interviews):
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WEST HAM POST-MATCH: Moyes Derby Draw Destiny
03/15/2025
WEST HAM POST-MATCH: Moyes Derby Draw Destiny
The full crew is reunited on this episode of The Blue Frontier to dig into Everton's 1-1 draw at home to West Ham, extending their unbeaten run to 9 matches. Ryan, James and Shan dig into the phases of the game, from a stalemate of a first half, to WHU gaining traction to start the 2nd, to Moyes' successful triple sub that put Jake O'Brien in position to thump home the equalizer, the second time in three games he’s rescued a point for the Toffees. Moyes faced his previous club for the first time since leaving West Ham, and the pod brings you all the details of the fantastic Everton goal, as well as all the analysis in what was a very tactical match. From strange West Ham team construction and the key matchups to the data insights that highlight the difference in the results. The guys then discuss potential lineups going forward and what this Everton team might look like in the next match for what could be a difficult April schedule for Everton. 📢 Join the conversation! Follow us on socials (links below) and leave us a rating/review if you enjoyed the episode. RSVP TO TOFFEEFEST: https://toffeelink.com/toffeefest2025/ POD LINKS:
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WOLVES POST-MATCH: Unbeaten But Underwhelmed
03/09/2025
WOLVES POST-MATCH: Unbeaten But Underwhelmed
Everton escaped their trip to Molineux with a 1-1 draw against Wolves, bringing their unbeaten run to 8 games in the league, something David Moyes has not achieved as a manager since his OG spell leading the Blues. James and Shan are here to dissect the (admittedly) less-than-thrilling match which saw both goals scored within a 7 minute spell in the first half. They of course have to mention the absence of Cunha, as it wasn't mentioned enough elsewhere in the media. But they also dig into all the other major moments, including Moyes' different approach to the substitutions, Andre nearly headbutting Stuart Attwell, and much more. Our listener input and comments really shine in this episode as the guys continue to come to terms with secure Premier League safety with 10 matches still to play. LINKS:
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THE MOYES EFFECT: Everton’s Turnaround by the Numbers, Stadium/Boardroom Volatility, and the Frontier Feedback Loop
03/07/2025
THE MOYES EFFECT: Everton’s Turnaround by the Numbers, Stadium/Boardroom Volatility, and the Frontier Feedback Loop
David Moyes's return has brought a good feeling back to Everton fans worldwide, and the numbers help tell the story we all know: Everton are thriving under his leadership. In this episode of The Blue Frontier, James and Shan take a deep dive into the data, breaking down how Moyes' tactical approach compares to Sean Dyche’s tenure. (05:54) From shifts in defensive structure to improvements in attacking play, we analyze key stats and standout performances from players like Jake O’Brien, Beto, and James Garner. But wait, there's more than just performance analysis—Everton’s boardroom has been nearly as eventful. The guys discuss major executive shakeups, stadium financing updates, and what Abdoulaye Doucouré’s contract situation signals for the club’s future. (23:58) With so much uncertainty, they try to walk the thin line between speculation & reality. Finally, we turn the spotlight to YOU, our listeners. (44:08) We answer your questions—who should Everton target in the transfer market? What’s the best matchday experience at Goodison? And, of course, the truly important debates: favorite vegetables, ideal first opponent at Bramley-Moore Dock, Everton as an animal, and more! Be sure to leave a review, follow, share, and subscribe for the latest in-depth Everton analysis and fan-driven discussion from across the pond. LINKS:
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BRENTFORD POST-MATCH: Better Do Beto to Beat the Bees
02/27/2025
BRENTFORD POST-MATCH: Better Do Beto to Beat the Bees
Everton’s unbeaten run continues! The Toffees extend their streak to seven matches after a hard-fought 1-1 draw at Brentford’s G-Tech Community Stadium. It was a chaotic affair that Evertonians might feel hard done to not take all three points from. In this episode of The Blue Frontier, James, Ryan, and Shan break down all the key moments—from Beto’s big chances to Jake O’Brien’s impactful goal and Mark Flecken’s unreal goalkeeping display. The trio dive into the tactical nuances and key matchups, analyzing Brentford’s effective set pieces, Everton’s missed opportunities, and what this result means heading into a crucial stretch of the season. And, as always, the conversation wouldn’t be complete without listener input! The hosts dig into a ton of comments from the loyal Blue Frontier listeners, before wrapping up with a preview of Everton’s next match against Wolves. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and follow us on socials for more Everton coverage and analysis! LINKS:
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MAN UNITED POST-MATCH: PGMOL United Against EFC
02/22/2025
MAN UNITED POST-MATCH: PGMOL United Against EFC
Everton and Manchester United played out a dramatic 2-2 draw at Goodison Park, but the biggest talking point wasn’t the goals, it was the disastrous refereeing. In this episode of The Blue Frontier, James, Ryan, and Shan break down Everton’s blistering start, where Beto and Doucouré fired the Toffees into an early 2-0 lead, only for controversial officiating and set-piece struggles to hand United a way back into the match. The trio dive into the tactics, the key performances, and, of course, the game-changing VAR decisions that left Evertonians in fury. They also take a wider look at the PGMOL’s ongoing struggles with officiating and VAR implementation in the Premier League. Follow, rate, and subscribe for more Everton analysis! LINKS:
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CRYSTAL PALACE POST-MATCH: Another Wing Clipped
02/17/2025
CRYSTAL PALACE POST-MATCH: Another Wing Clipped
Three matches in a week? No problem for Everton—or The Blue Frontier! James, Shan, and Ryan are back in full force to break down the Toffees’ gritty 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, completing their first league double over the Eagles since 2004-05. It wasn’t just about football, though—this episode somehow covers religion, childbirth, bird species, refrigerators, halal, and more. From Beto’s relentless hold-up play to Charly Alcaraz’s dream debut, the hosts dissect standout performances, Moyes' tactical adjustments, and how Everton overcame fatigue to pull off a massive win. They also highlight the electric away support, Spirit of the Blues ringing through London, and the growing momentum heading into the clash against a flailing Manchester United. Also on the agenda: Anthony Taylor’s officiating masterclass?! The unsung heroes: Pickford, Young & Lindstrøm Everton vs. Birds FC—coincidence or fate? Queen Eleanor & the power of newborn luck Toffee Fest 2025: San Diego bound! (SIGN UP HERE: Tap in, share with fellow Toffees, and let’s keep the momentum rolling! 🔗 Follow us on socials:
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MERSEYSIDE DERBY POST-MATCH: Tarkowski Time, Blue Bedlam
02/13/2025
MERSEYSIDE DERBY POST-MATCH: Tarkowski Time, Blue Bedlam
The Blue Frontier is back following the incredibly dramatic finish of the 120th, and final Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park. James Tarkowski stepped up in the final minute of stoppage time to thump home a deserved equalizer when all hope was nearly lost. James and Ryan analyze the significant moments, including all 4 goals, missed opportunities, and the overall dynamics of the game, with an emphasis on what an emotional rollercoaster of a match it was. Michael Oliver draws criticism for his inconsistent calls, Beto earns praise for his work rate and goal, while Abdoulaye Doucouré, JB, and Gana also played their part in the monumental result. They spend a great deal of time basking in the glory of the final minutes, getting in lots of comments from listeners on socials, and reflecting on how remarkable and welcome the Toffee's turn in form has been, not to mention how special the Everton fanbase is. Special mention of the hilarious head loss by the reds across the park ;) SUBLIME. UP THE TOFFEES! LINKS:
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BOURNEMOUTH FA CUP POST-MATCH: Goodison’s FA Cup Goodbye
02/08/2025
BOURNEMOUTH FA CUP POST-MATCH: Goodison’s FA Cup Goodbye
While Everton’s resurgence under David Moyes has been encouraging, reality finally hit as the Toffees bowed out of the FA Cup with a 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth in Goodison Park’s final cup match. But was this result inevitable, or did Everton beat themselves? James, Shan, and Ryan break it all down in what was truly a tale of two halves—highlighting what went wrong early, the adjustments that sparked a second-half revival, and why there’s still plenty to be optimistic about moving forward. 🔹 What went wrong for Tarkowski? 🔹 How did Charly Alcaraz’s debut change the game? 🔹 Everton’s second-half resurgence—sign of progress? 🔹 Can the Toffees bounce back against Liverpool? We also dive into Bournemouth’s well-executed game plan, the impact of injuries, and the tactical implications for the upcoming Merseyside Derby. Plus, as always, we bring in some fantastic listener quotes from the Discord community. Join the debate in our Discord, follow us on socials, and don’t forget to rate and review The Blue Frontier! LINKS:
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LEICESTER CITY POST-MATCH: Foxes Tamed, Toffees Triumphant
02/01/2025
LEICESTER CITY POST-MATCH: Foxes Tamed, Toffees Triumphant
The Toffees make it three straight wins with a dominant 4-0 thrashing of Leicester City, and The Blue Frontier crew is here on the pod's 1 month anniversary to soak it all in. James, Shan, and Ryan break down Everton’s best performance of the season, from Doucoure’s lightning-fast opener just 10 seconds in, to Beto’s long-awaited breakout and a cherry-on-top goal from Ndiaye. They dive into the tactical improvements under Moyes, the shift away from Dyche-ball, and the sheer joy of watching Everton actually dominate a match. But it’s not just about the football—this one had it all: VAR confusion, Leicester’s defensive chaos, Wout Faes’ permanent state of blame-shifting, and some truly bizarre time-wasting antics (why were they changing shoes at 3-0 down?). Plus, listener reactions fuel the banter, from celebrating Beto’s redemption arc to laughing at Leicester’s meltdown. The guys wrap the show with a discussion of the media confusion around Everton's (apparently) imminent signing of Carlos AlcaRAZ on loan (w/ obligation) from Brazillian giants Flamengo. They also discuss the player's career so far, how he fits into the squad, and why his signing ticks a lot of important boxes from a recruitment standpoint. LINKS:
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BRIGHTON POST-MATCH: Ruffled Feathers
01/25/2025
BRIGHTON POST-MATCH: Ruffled Feathers
The Toffees get their wings on the South Coast with a gritty 1-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion. Back-to-back wins have Everton soaring 7 points clear of the relegation zone and just 5 points off 11th. James, Shan, and Ryan are your Frontiersmen to guide you through all the drama from a match that wasn’t pretty, but packed with storylines. The trio dissects key player performances, tactical adjustments, and the resilience Everton showed under pressure. They dive into the chaos of injuries, VAR controversy, and the bizarre penalty incident that turned the game. But this episode isn’t just about stats and tactics—expect plenty of commentary on bird law, royal rumbles, referee antics, and more offbeat topics that somehow felt perfectly fitting for such a strange match. Listener insights fuel the discussion as always, and the boys thank you for your contributions to the Blue Frontier. Onwards and upwards! LINKS:
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SPURS POST-MATCH: Net Gains at Goodison
01/19/2025
SPURS POST-MATCH: Net Gains at Goodison
In a wild afternoon at Goodison, Everton score three first-half goals to secure a much-needed victory over a depleted Spurs side. A similarly depleted Blue Frontier crew dive deep into this (pleasantly) uncharacteristic Toffees performance, debating whether it was Everton brilliance or Spurs ineptitude. James and Ryan break down the key moments, essential stats, and standout performances that defined the match, while sharing listener comments that capture the joy only an Everton win can bring. Up the Toffees! LINKS:
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ASTON VILLA POST-MATCH: Warm and Fuzzy
01/16/2025
ASTON VILLA POST-MATCH: Warm and Fuzzy
Everton’s new frontier under David Moyes began with a frustrating 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa at Goodison Park, and The Blue Frontier is here to break it all down. James, Shan, and Ryan explore Moyes’ early tactical changes, the persistent issues in attack, and the defensive lapses that cost Everton the match. They also dive into key moments, including controversial VAR decisions and standout performances, while questioning whether Moyes has the time and squad to implement his vision. Listener contributions from Discord and social media fuel the discussion, adding humor and insight to an honest look at Everton’s performance and next steps. Thank you for tuning in and being part of the conversation. LINKS:
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MOYES ROUND 2: Impact on EFC Recruitment, Tactics, and Survival
01/11/2025
MOYES ROUND 2: Impact on EFC Recruitment, Tactics, and Survival
The news keeps coming and the The Blue Frontier keeps podding! James, Ryan and Shan are back with a jam-packed episode dissecting the massive news that David Moyes has replaced Sean Dyche as Everton’s manager on a 2 ½ year deal. The guys give their initial reactions to the appointment, explore Moyes’ history with relegation battles, and dive into his tactical approach and transfer strategies. With their signature deep-dive style, the American blues break down his most recent stint at West Ham, examining his recruitment successes, failures, and experience working with a Technical Director. The trio also tackles listener questions, evaluating Moyes’ fit at Everton, the implications of his contract, and how his arrival impacts the club’s January recruitment strategy. They analyze the gaps in the current squad, revisit their team assessment, and discuss how Moyes might use existing personnel to shape Everton’s tactics and formations. Wrapping up, the hosts weigh the challenges and opportunities of this pivotal managerial shift, offering a balanced look at what Moyes’ return could mean for Everton’s future. Be sure to leave a rating and review if you enjoyed the episode! LINKS (Socials, Discord, Youtube): https://linktr.ee/thebluefrontier
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DYCHE SACKED: Goodison Night of New Beginnings & Nepotism
01/10/2025
DYCHE SACKED: Goodison Night of New Beginnings & Nepotism
A special two part episode for you all today, with the major news that Sean Dyche has been relieved of his managerial duties breaking just a few hours before Everton were set to kick off against Peterborough United in the third round of the FA Cup. Part 1: An X Space steered by the 3 hosts with some guest contributors. A reaction to the Dyche news and rumors circulating that David Moyes is likely to be named has his replacement. Thanks to Nick Weinstein, NorCalToffee, Mitch, and Lee W for joining us for an interesting discussion. We hope you'll enjoy! Part 2 (44:34): No chance The Blue Frontier could skip a post-match episode, even in a relatively turgid display in an FA Cup win over a League One side. Hopefully it’s not the last FA Cup match under the lights at Goodison, but it if was, it was significant for a lot of reasons. From Sir Alex’s beloved son, to young players that actually got to see the pitch, this match had it’s moments, but not all of which occurred on the actual playing surface. James, Shan, and Ryan get into all the back stories, from Baines/Coleman on the sideilne, to a change in formation, and to speculation about Broja’s injury and the potential impact to the side. Thanks to our amazing listeners as well for providing tons of material to help drive the show. LINKS: Production: James Boyman
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LESSONS FROM ROMA: Everton's January Market Options
01/07/2025
LESSONS FROM ROMA: Everton's January Market Options
Continuing the Blue Frontier's productive first week of content, we follow up our comprehensive team assessment with a new episode focused on Everton's strategy for the January transfer window. Topics include PSR Challenges: Understanding the financial constraints Everton faces. Roma's Transfer Insights: Evaluating Roma's transfer history to inform EFC's strategy. We then transition into: Transfer Rumors: Silly season is off to a slow start, but the guys assess the feasibility and impact of a few rumored outgoing and incoming players Sean Dyche's Role: Analyzing how the manager's tactics influence transfer decisions. Also, a reminder for the North American Toffees - there are still opportunities to join them at Goodison Park for the match against Manchester United in February. Reach out to the group at for details and to reserve your spot. Please leave us a rating and review on your platform of choice, and follow us on socials at
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BOURNEMOUTH POST-MATCH: Lethargy at the Vitality
01/04/2025
BOURNEMOUTH POST-MATCH: Lethargy at the Vitality
It’s been a flurry of activity from the BLUE FRONTIER this week with a 3rd episode in almost as many days, but unfortunately Everton were not as productive losing 1-0 in a lopsided affair vs. Bournemouth. James, Shan, and Ryan get into all the details especially the tactical battle between Andoni Iraola and Sean Dyche as well as the one-sided nature of the underlying performance. The trio saw many illustrations of the Team Assessment on full display as Everton once again failed to score and really create a decent chance over 90+ minutes. The crew then gives their assessment on Sean Dyche and Everton going forward. This is The Blue Frontier’s first post-match episode and hopefully you’ll see the infusion of our listener commentary, but we also encourage any feedback as we continue to evolve the format. PRODUCER'S NOTE: I edited this really quickly out of necessity, if you notice any audio issues please reach out and apologies for the lack of attention to detail LINKS:
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JANUARY TEAM ASSESSMENT & NEEDS: Can We Smell a Solution?
01/03/2025
JANUARY TEAM ASSESSMENT & NEEDS: Can We Smell a Solution?
While The Blue Frontier may be new, the Team Assessment monster episode is not. Regardless, the triumvirate take a deep dive into the team and individual performance numbers, cross reference them with the eye test, and come up with the root cause issues that are driving the lack of success in the first team. While some of the individual performances should be no surprise, other metrics provided some pretty interesting insight into aspects of the team’s underperformance that might have been going unnoticed. And per usual, James, Shan, and Ryan arrive at conclusions on Everton’s biggest needs going into the transfer window as well as a bit of a referendum on Sean Dyche himself. Thank you all for listening! LINKS: Production: James Boyman
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WELCOME TO THE BLUE FRONTIER: Friedkin Group Takeover, Stadium Latest, & Thelwell/Dyche Futures
01/02/2025
WELCOME TO THE BLUE FRONTIER: Friedkin Group Takeover, Stadium Latest, & Thelwell/Dyche Futures
Welcome everyone to the newest Everton podcast, "The Blue Frontier". James Boyman and Ryan Williams are back in the pod game and joined by a new third co-host, Shan Khan (otherwise known as the Chief of the Optimism Train). In the inaugural episode, the hosts discuss the transition from the American Toffee Podcast to their new venture. They express gratitude for community support and outline their plans for the podcast, including discussions on the Friedkin Group's takeover of Everton, stadium developments, and the management structure moving forward. Producer's note: Thank you again for all of your support during this transition. We are thrilled to be back in your ears! PLEASE help the new show feed reach as many folks as possible by leaving us a rating or review and sharing the links on social media! LINKS: New discord: TBF Twitter/X: TBF Instagram: TBF Facebook: thebluefrontier 00:00 Transitioning from the American Toffee Podcast 09:33 Logo and Branding Discussion 14:17 New Era: The Friedkin Group Takeover 23:11 Commercial Strategy and Brand Enhancement 28:46 Patience vs. Decisiveness in Management 32:33 Stadium Development and Naming Rights 47:42 Evaluating Managers: Sean Dyche and Kevin Thelwell 01:01:18 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement
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