Boardman and Reid Reflect on Chiesa, Chants and Slot’s Early Impact | OneFootball

Chiesa Song, Slot’s Reds and the Rebirth of Liverpool’s Identity

In the latest Scouser Tommies episode for Anfield Index, Jim Boardman and Jay Reid offer a sharp yet humorous review of Liverpool’s start to the new season. With Arne Slot at the helm and Federico Chiesa now well into his second season at Anfield, the podcast covers not just results but the rhythm of a club rediscovering its voice, quite literally, through song.

Chiesa Song: A Viral Hit Fuelled by Genuine Support

Federico Chiesa joined Liverpool in 2024, but the Italian winger continues to spark conversation, not for his form this time, but for the song Liverpool fans have adopted in his name. The chant has become a regular part of the matchday atmosphere, prompting Jim Boardman to reflect on its lyrics and wider meaning.

“I’m not saying you can’t say what you feel. I just think, you know, sometimes you’ve got to be careful how you say things,” Jim said. His concern wasn’t about singing the song, but ensuring fans consider its wording. He added, “I hope no one puts pressure on him to do that. I hope if he does say that, it’s because he’s made that decision himself.”

Despite a few murmurs of criticism, both hosts agreed that unless Chiesa himself objects, the chant will continue to ring out.

No Clean Sheets but Plenty of Promise

Under Arne Slot, Liverpool’s football has been free-flowing and fearless, even if it has lacked a little defensive precision. Jay Reid cut to the point: “No clean sheets yet if you’ve been negative.” But he wasn’t complaining. “If I come out of a stadium and we’ve won 4-2, that’s a good result for me because I’ve seen four goals scored by us.”

Jim echoed that enthusiasm, remarking, “If you win the league by winning 4-2 every game, so be it. Who wants to not win the league?”

There’s no suggestion from either that Liverpool are the finished article, but there is confidence in the squad’s direction. Jay hinted that there could still be additions to come, remarking, “Still maybe some signings to be had…”

Handballs, VAR and Familiar Everton Narratives

No Scouser Tommies episode would be complete without a word on Everton. Jim highlighted inconsistent officiating in both Liverpool and Everton’s games, saying, “Even Dermot Gallagher agrees that that was a handball.” His frustration lay with VAR not reviewing all angles, especially “where he reached for it.”

Jay recounted the Blues’ own controversy, where a player appeared to admit on the pitch. With sarcasm to match his scouse humour, Jay added, “Still the same old Everton, isn’t it?”

As Jim put it, “Football is back… Everton will find a way to make excuses for losing games.” It was said with a grin, but the rivalry’s sting remains.

Slot’s Reds Build on Chiesa Spark

While the Chiesa song may have dominated some headlines, both Jim and Jay steered the conversation back to the pitch, where Liverpool’s start under Slot has been energetic and encouraging. Jay said, “This side looks good… where it’ll take us, we don’t know.” Jim simply signed off the episode saying, “Let’s enjoy this season.”

From Federico Chiesa’s enduring popularity to the attacking flair already visible this season, it’s clear that Liverpool fans have plenty to sing about, and not just in the stands.