72+: The EFL Podcast
September 16, 2026 17:43
Broadcasters Aaron Paul, Jobi McAnuff and Luke Chambers front the latest 72+: The EFL Podcast, which rounds up recent developments across the English Football League. The episode covers Preston’s managerial change, Lincoln’s early-season form and a preview of Millwall’s meeting with West Ham, with Millwall defender Caleb Taylor appearing as a guest. It also examines Shrewsbury’s new American ownership and the reported involvement of Brad Friedel, and includes regular segments such as 72PLUS 72MINUS and a feature with Nathan Jones.
The show is available via the 72+ feed on BBC Sounds, where weekly episodes carry the same mix of EFL news, interviews and moments under discussion.
KEY CONTEXT
- Preston North End have dismissed Paul Heckingbottom as manager — this is a central talking point in the episode.
- Lincoln City’s encouraging start to the season has put them into playoff contention, prompting analysis of how far they might go.
- Millwall and West Ham are due to meet on Saturday for the first time since 2012; Millwall’s Caleb Taylor joins the pod to discuss the fixture.
- Shrewsbury Town have acquired American ownership, and BBC Shropshire’s Nick Southall outlines Brad Friedel’s role with the club.
- The episode also questions whether West Ham have improved under manager Nuno, among other topical discussions.
WHY IT MATTERS
Managerial changes, ownership shifts and in-form teams reshape the competitive landscape across the EFL. Preston’s quick move to part ways with Paul Heckingbottom will influence their short-term results and recruitment decisions. Lincoln’s ascent into playoff positions affects the Championship/League One dynamic and raises expectations among supporters. A rare meeting between Millwall and West Ham—plus the club-level perspectives offered by Caleb Taylor—adds local interest and tactical intrigue. Finally, American investment and figures such as Brad Friedel becoming involved at lower-league clubs have broader implications for governance and long-term planning at those clubs.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- How Preston respond on the pitch and whom the club appoints as Heckingbottom’s replacement.
- Whether Lincoln can maintain momentum and convert their strong start into a playoff push.
- The outcome and key narratives from the Millwall v West Ham fixture, and any takeaways from Caleb Taylor’s comments.
- Further clarification on the nature and impact of Shrewsbury’s American ownership and Brad Friedel’s involvement.
- Continued assessment of West Ham’s trajectory under Nuno, a topic the podcast raises for debate.
KEY FACTS
- Hosts: Aaron Paul, Jobi McAnuff and Luke Chambers.
- Preston have sacked manager Paul Heckingbottom.
- Lincoln are currently into the playoffs after a strong start to the season.
- Millwall face West Ham for the first time since 2012; Caleb Taylor appears on the episode.
- Shrewsbury Town have American owners and Brad Friedel is reported to be involved.
- The episode includes segments 72PLUS 72MINUS and an interview with Nathan Jones.