In this episode, Lee and Lars talk to Jackie Freeman a.k.a Jackie Grealish (and her husband Ray) about the challenges of playing football as you get older, getting your first England call up at the age of 61 and much more.

Jackie went viral recently on social media after the BBC featured her as the "oldest women's footballer in the UK". She returned to her playing days after a 35 year break, and is still going strong. A truly inspirational story for anyone reaching the later stages of their football career.

As always, we small talk about some other things going on in the football world, and drop a few hints about what's to come on the podcast. We would love to hear your comments on this week's episode.

Contact us at roversreportpodcast@gmail.com or on instagram @roverspodcast

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In this episode, Lee and Lars take a closer look at the growing instability of the coaching role in modern football.

With a wave of recent managerial changes in the Veikkausliiga, the conversation starts in Finland before widening out to the global game. Why are coaches being given so little time to build? How much authority do they really have these days? And what happens when football decisions are driven by business interests and short-term results?

The discussion explores the pressure coaches face at every level of the game, and how recruitment strategy, and leadership is often taken out of their hands. An honest, reflective chat about power, trust and what coaching has become in modern day football.

Contact us at roversreportpodcast@gmail.com or on instagram @roverspodcast

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In this episode of Rovers Report, Lee and Lars sit down with Ilmari Niskanen to talk through his football journey — from coming up through the junior system at KuPS to playing professionally in Germany, Scotland, and now England.

Ilmari reflects on his development at KuPS, his thoughts on the club’s recent championship win, and what it took to earn his move abroad. He shares honest insights into adapting to different football cultures, the demands of professional life in Germany and the UK, and how expectations changed when he arrived on the British Isles.

The conversation also focuses on life at Exeter City, where Ilmari has become a fan favourite for his attitude, work rate, and connection with supporters — as well as his thoughts ahead of the upcoming FA Cup fixture against Manchester City.

Above all, this episode is about inspiring young players. Ilmari speaks openly about work ethic, patience, setbacks, and the small habits that matter most when trying to build a career in football — on and off the pitch.

*Apologies for the audio in some sections of this episode - so if you have any difficulties, please use the transcript while you listen*

Contact us at roversreportpodcast@gmail.com

or on Instagram @roversreportpodcast

Enjoy the show.