72+: The EFL Podcast

What the report says

BBC Sport Football’s 72+: The EFL Podcast looks at the opening weekend of the 2026-27 EFL season, with hosts Aaron Paul and Jobi McAnuff joined by Bolton manager Steven Schumacher and Luton boss Jack Wilshere. The episode focuses on early talking points across the Championship and wider league action, including Bolton’s winning start after returning to the division and the challenge of competing with better-funded rivals.

The discussion also covers several standout and controversial moments from the first round of fixtures. Among them are Will Lankshear’s strong debut for Middlesbrough, Southampton’s first match after the Spygate fallout, and a disputed handball incident in West Brom’s win over Norwich that prompted debate over whether the Championship should use VAR. The podcast uses these games to assess how the league may evolve this season and what issues could shape the promotion race and relegation battle.

Wilshere’s interview adds a managerial perspective after Luton came from 3-1 behind to beat Reading in their opener. He reflects on his first pre-season in charge of a senior side, offering context on the transition from player to first-team manager. The episode is framed as an early-season roundup that brings together results, tactical questions and off-field context around the EFL’s main storylines.