Football Manager #24: Free Labour
Summary
In this episode of The Square Ball, the hosts discuss their Leeds United squad's promotion to the National League and a chaotic pre-season strategy focused on financial gain. Michael reveals a plan to play 14 friendlies against lower-league teams to sell tickets, utilizing unpaid trialists for free labor. The squad is built around veterans like Jonathan Woodgate and Ian Hart, alongside accidental signings like John Parkin, while the hosts negotiate wages and manage a large pool of trialists.
Topics discussed
Intro, sponsors, and show setup
Team name anagram and sponsor details
FA Trophy loss and National League promotion
Pre-season plans and backup goalkeeper search
Signing Paul Rehupka and wage budget review
Negotiating contracts and youth prospects
Reviewing right-backs and trialists
Jonathan Woodgate signing and center-backs
Mickey Doyle trial and negotiation tactics
Midfield signings: Crespo and Joris Ursch
Wing options and Brandon Barker trial
Accidental signing of John Parkin
Striker negotiations and appearance fees
Squad update complete and early results
Commercial friendlies and formation setup
First friendly: Goals and fatigue issues
John Parkin's performance and match end
New trialists and Jimmy Kebby loan
Staff changes and pitch configuration
Striker search and veteran signings
Goalkeeper trials and lower league strategy
Central midfield depth and player news
Holiday mode and draw with Garth
Injury updates and new goalkeeper trial
Star-studded lineup and upcoming fixtures
Financial strategy and episode wrap-up
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