3 In The Middle Podcast

Nine men. Three goals. One unforgettable night at Brunton Park.

This episode was recorded before Carlisle United faced Harrogate Town but what followed was one of the most remarkable Carlisle performances in recent memory.

The Blues lost Miguel Azeez and Harvey Bunker to first-half red cards, yet somehow went on to win 3–0 through goals from Josh Williams, Callum Whelan and Ryan Galvin.

Chris Lumsdon and Mark “Skip” Boyd recorded from the West Silloth Motors box before kick-off, discussing Carlisle’s recent turnaround under Rob Elliot, the pressure of playing for the club and the arri...

Who should manage Carlisle United for the rest of the season: Rob Elliott, Mark Hughes or Paul Simpson?

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return after an unforgettable trip to Celtic Park, where they watched a thrilling match, met some familiar football faces and experienced the Glasgow hospitality.

The lads then discuss Carlisle United’s cup victory, Will Rafferty’s debut and the importance of winning promotion before the club risks losing its most promising academy players.

Attention turns to the controversy surrounding James McClean’s comments about therapy and asking for help...

Are Carlisle United suffering from a confidence crisis at Brunton Park?

Peter Murphy joins Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch as the lads analyse Carlisle’s frustrating draw with Kidderminster and the problems holding Rob Elliott’s side back at home.

They discuss Carlisle’s cautious passing, lack of attacking runs, Regan Linney’s late penalty miss and whether the players are becoming too concerned with taking the safe option. Murph explains how Kidderminster frustrated Carlisle and why changing the tempo is essential when an opposition team refuses to press.

The conversation...

Are Carlisle United finally turning their season around?

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return to discuss Carlisle’s two crucial away wins and the dramatic change in performances following the defeat at Woking.

The lads praise the commitment, physicality and defensive improvement shown against Fylde and Aldershot—but ask whether this is a genuine turning point for Rob Elliott’s team or simply a short-term reaction to mounting pressure.

They also debate the possible punishment facing Manchester City. Could City really be relegated, should their players lose their medals, and has the Pr...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for an explosive episode covering Carlisle United’s alarming form, the standard of Scottish football and whether supporters need to have played the game to understand it.

The lads react to another damaging Carlisle performance and ask whether the players are still fighting for Rob Elliot. They analyse the missed chances, defensive mistakes, lack of fitness and worrying number of players losing individual battles.

There’s also an honest discussion about Carlisle players posting on social media while the club struggles near the National League relegation zone. Sh...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for an explosive episode examining how Carlisle United have fallen into the worst league position in the club’s history.

The lads assess the Piatak family’s ownership, the decisions made behind the scenes and the lack of communication with supporters. Lummy also shares what he has been told by agents, former players, journalists and local businessmen including claims that Carlisle have become known within football as a “soft touch” for transfers and lucrative contracts.

Attention then turns to Rob Elliot. Does he deserve more time, or must Carl...

Jonny from BBC Radio Cumbria’s Carlisle Social joins Chris Lumsdon and Mark “Skip” Boyd for an episode packed with Carlisle United analysis, controversial football opinions and brilliant stories from their playing careers.

Skip recalls the unbelievable moment Premier League referee Mike Dean decided not to send him off because it was his “big day” and he was “a nobody.” The lads discuss their best and worst referees before putting Mike Dean firmly on Clown Watch.

Attention then turns to Carlisle United following the painful defeat against Boreham Wood. Are the performances showing signs of progress, or s...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for another episode packed with Scottish football criticism, Newcastle United debates, Carlisle analysis and plenty of chaos away from the pitch.

The lads react to a disastrous period for Scottish clubs in Europe, with Celtic and Rangers both suffering damaging defeats. Has the standard of Scottish football fallen and have Celtic’s European ambitions exposed the lack of depth in their squad?

They also discuss Anthony Gordon’s incredible start at Barcelona. Did anyone expect the former Everton and Newcastle winger to reach that level, and was choo...

Chris Lumsdon, Skip Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for another episode packed with Premier League predictions, Carlisle United analysis, football stories and plenty of nonsense.

The lads look back on their recent conversation with Peter “Murf” Murphy, correcting his Carlisle United appearance record to more than 470 games and discussing the versatility, intelligence and mental strength that made him such an important player.

They also review a recent visit to Brunton Park, praising the improvements made to Carlisle’s matchday experience, fan zone and hospitality facilities before analysing the team’s performance on the pitch.

Atte...

A Carlisle United legend joins us this week! 

Peter Murphy sits down with Chris Lumsdon and Dylan McGeouch to look back on an unforgettable career at Brunton Park.

After joining Carlisle United in 2001, Peter spent 12 years at the club, made more than 400 appearances and became the club’s record appearance holder for an outfield player.

He scored the winning goal that returned Carlisle to the Football League in 2005 and then delivered another historic winner against Brentford at Wembley in 2011.

The lads discuss Peter’s journey from Blackburn Rovers to Brunton Park, Carli...

The lads are back after a big day out in Newcastle and there are plenty of stories to tell! 🍻⚽

This week, Chris Lumsdon, Skip Boyd and Dylan McGeouch discuss Newcastle United selling their best players and Carlisle United’s disappointing opening-day defeat.

They also reveal what careers they might have pursued if they hadn’t become professional footballers before Skip’s sweaty armpits become an unexpected talking point!

Plus, all your favourite weekly features return:

- What’s the Crack?
- Guess Who
- Viewers’ Questions
- Plenty of football non...

A huge thank you to Lloyd Kia Carlisle for sponsoring this episode of the 3 In The Middle Podcast! 🚗⚽

Discover the latest Kia models and offers here:
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Former professional footballers Chris Lumsdon and Skip Boyd are joined by current player Dylan McGeouch and special guest Colin McMenamin for another episode packed with brilliant football stories, honest opinions and plenty of nonsense.

Colin reveals what Joe Hart was really like behind the scenes... was he a nutter, a genius, or a bit of both? The lads also share stories about...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for another episode packed with Carlisle United predictions, controversial managerial decisions and honest insight into life as a professional footballer.

After watching Carlisle’s latest performance, the lads analyse Rob Elliot’s aggressive pressing style, the club’s summer recruitment and the strength of the squad heading into the new season. One prediction stands out above all: Carlisle United won’t simply challenge for promotion—they could win the National League by a considerable margin.

They also discuss the prospect of Jordan Henderson joining Chelsea and whether his ex...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for an episode dominated by England’s painful World Cup exit, Harry Kane’s future and a tribute to the legendary Kevin Keegan.

The lads discuss the tactical decisions that cost England a place in the World Cup final. Did the manager become too defensive after taking the lead, and why were England’s most dangerous counterattacking players left on the bench?

They also question whether England will ever receive a better opportunity to win the World Cup and debate whether the same manager should remain in charge...

Chris Lumsdon and Mark “Skip” Boyd are joined once again by former Carlisle United kitman and Burnley team driver Andy “Bus Head” Horn for an episode packed with football debates, behind-the-scenes stories and plenty of nonsense.

The lads discuss England’s chances of overcoming Lionel Messi and winning the World Cup, Jude Bellingham’s fiery mentality and the controversial decision to leave Phil Foden and Cole Palmer out of the squad.

Attention then turns to Newcastle United as they debate the possible departures of Bruno Guimarães and other leading players, the extraordinary money now being spent o...

This week World Cup fever continues to grow as the lads review the epic battle of England v Mexico at the Azteca, a stadium that Dylan has played in and he gives us first hand experience of how that altitude really affects you. 

Plenty of other talking points from the tournament including Bellingham, the Trump saga and of course the infamous Harry Kane post match interview which runs the risk of being his World Cup legacy. 

As always, plenty of other stuff discussed from the strength of hotel beer on holiday, away game pre match ho...

This week the lads continue with their World Cup coverage and rank recent England greats and Scotland's efforts as Lummy's England shirt looks like going into the last 32 unwashed.

Stories include former Sunderland player Asamoah Gyan and his Music Man inspiring the Mackem's to a 5-1 defeat against the Toon, an ex pro getting papped in only his club issued shoes after a night out and find out which host was Mr February in a topless club calendar. 

Also includes a review of Carlisle's latest signings and the one they think has a bit about h...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for another episode packed with World Cup debates, dressing-room stories and more unbelievable tales from their playing careers.

The lads revisit football’s biggest argument following another Lionel Messi masterclass: is there really still a debate between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo? They compare Messi’s natural genius with Ronaldo’s relentless dedication before selecting the England team they believe can win the World Cup.

They also debate whether expanding the tournament to 48 teams has damaged its quality, discuss Scotland’s encouraging start and ask how many Scottish pla...

After a recent run of guest episodes the lads are back together as a three and straight back to what they do best.

Expect stories around which England player slept in the overhead luggage compartment on the flight after a Euro 96 game, World Cup preview and find out which ex Newcastle United player Skip still can't find anything positive to say about and his reasons which include an earring and a pint of P*ss.

Throw in a few reader's stories about anonymous ex players antics and 'the great curry debate' and you've got an...

Former Carlisle United and Norwich City striker Grant Holt joins Chris Lumsdon and Mark “Skip” Boyd to discuss a defining summer at Brunton Park.

The lads assess Carlisle’s failure to win promotion, the departure of Mark Hughes and whether the manager or the players should carry the greatest responsibility for another season in the National League.

Attention then turns to Rob Elliott. After transforming Gateshead’s fortunes, can he establish a clear identity at Carlisle and finally get this talented squad promoted? Grant explains why there can be no more talk of long-term projects and why...

In this episode the lads sit down with former Norwich City captain and Premier League striker Grant Holt to explore one of football's most inspiring journeys.

Grant reflects on his unconventional path through non-league football, balancing work and ambition, overcoming setbacks, and proving that determination can outweigh talent alone.

From early mornings and factory shifts to packed stadiums and Premier League goals, Grant shares the lessons he learned over a career that saw him play across all five of England's professional leagues and come close to an England call up. 

Find o...

Carlisle United legend Neil “Dolly” Dalton returns with more unbelievable stories from his career as a football physio.

Dolly recalls the chaotic final months of Roddy Collins’ time at Carlisle, including the boxing ring he attempted to build at the training ground—and how certain players found themselves sparring with the manager when he wanted them out of the club.

He explains how Paul Simpson transformed Carlisle United, rebuilt the dressing room and led the club back into the Football League. There are also stories about Karl Hawley, Michael Bridges and the players who helped revive t...

Sponsored by Warwick Road Bed Centre.

Carlisle United’s legendary former physio Neil “Dolly” Dalton joins the lads for more incredible stories from over 1,200 matches in professional football.

Dolly reveals how he went from apprentice footballer to becoming Carlisle’s head physio at just 22, recalls the unforgettable Jimmy Glass goal that saved the club and explains what really happened when Vinnie Jones pulled on a shirt for Carlisle.

There are also brilliant stories involving Nigel Pearson’s secret “Bright Eyes,” Roddy Collins’ midweek drinking sessions, chaotic trips to Dublin and the reality of helping injured...

Former Carlisle United midfielder Graeme Anthony joins Chris Lumsdon, Skip Boyd and Dylan McGeouch for an episode packed with old-school football stories, honest opinions and an important tribute to Tony Hopper.

Graeme looks back on leaving home at 15 to join Sheffield United, cleaning the boots of Premier League players and sharing a dressing room with stars including Vinnie Jones and Brian Deane.

He reveals what reserve-team football was really like, recalls a brilliant prank involving Dwight Yorke and discusses working under legendary managers such as Dave Bassett and Howard Kendall.

The lads also...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for an episode dominated by Carlisle United’s devastating play-off defeat, the future of Mark Hughes and the major decisions now facing the club.

The lads explain why Carlisle failed to take advantage of a huge Brunton Park crowd and allowed Boreham Wood to control the match. They question the team’s tactics, fitness and lack of attacking intent before giving their honest verdict on whether Mark Hughes should remain as manager.

They also assess the Carlisle ownership, recruitment and retained list. The owners have transformed the club...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for another episode packed with Carlisle United play-off predictions, Premier League debates and brilliant stories from their playing careers.

The lads look ahead to Carlisle’s huge potential showdown with Robbie Savage and Forest Green. Savage has been talking about facing Carlisle for months—but could his comments create the perfect atmosphere at Brunton Park?

They also discuss Liam Rosenior’s difficult spell at Chelsea and whether a reported £4 million payoff makes the criticism easier to accept. Will he rebuild his reputation, or has his time at Stamford...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch reveal the brutal reality of football’s “bomb squads” the groups of unwanted players frozen out by managers and forced to train separately from the first team.

Dylan opens up about spending 18 difficult months banished to Gretna’s youth team after being signed by the club’s owner against the manager’s wishes. He explains how the isolation affected his football, confidence and life away from the pitch before finally confronting the manager and negotiating his release.

The lads also share stories involving Michael Bridges, Allan Johnston, Paddy Kenny, Bil...

This episode is sponsored by BL Removals, helping people and businesses with moves across Carlisle and beyond. What’s the Crack? is sponsored by Warwick Road Bed Centre.

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for another episode packed with controversial football opinions, career decisions and unbelievable stories from inside the game.

Skip reacts to a photograph of him confronting a referee that went viral following a Carlisle City match. He explains what actually happened, why the referee’s behaviour angered the dugout and how close he came to being sent off during another...

This episode is supported by Flexi Rental, a Cumbria-based vehicle leasing partner helping SMEs and growing businesses.

Former Carlisle United kitman and coach driver Andy “Bus Head” Horn joins Chris Lumsdon, Skip Boyd and Dylan McGeouch for an episode packed with dressing-room pranks, away-day disasters and brilliant stories from behind the scenes at a professional football club.

Bus Head reveals how he became Carlisle’s kitman under Roddy Collins and recalls his first encounter with former owner Michael Knighton. He explains what the job was really like when one person was responsible for the kits, equipm...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for another episode packed with Premier League debates, Carlisle United analysis and brilliant stories from their playing careers.

The lads react to reports that Mohamed Salah could leave Liverpool and debate whether the time is right for him to move on. They also discuss Trent Alexander-Arnold’s England situation, Casemiro’s future and the decisions facing some of football’s biggest names.

Attention then turns to Tottenham as the club enters another period of uncertainty. Who should take charge, and could an experienced managerial partnership transform their seas...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for another episode packed with Carlisle United memories, unbelievable Sunderland stories and heated Premier League debates.

The lads look back on Carlisle’s remarkable six-goal victory before sharing their experiences of playing for and working with Paul Simpson.

Dylan reveals how a short conversation with Simo convinced him to join Carlisle, while Lummy explains why he continued defending the manager during a difficult League One campaign. Skip also remembers playing alongside Simo during Carlisle’s attempted great escape.

Lummy then continues the story of his Sund...

Dylan McGeouch reveals what really happened during his final months at Carlisle United and why he found himself separated from the first team after Mark Hughes arrived.

Dylan explains how a serious hamstring injury required surgery, why problems during his rehabilitation delayed his return and the frustrating conversations that followed. He also reveals how he arrived expecting to train with the first team, only to be told he would be working alone—and why one honest conversation could have handled the situation completely differently.

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan also examine Carlisle’s defeat a...

This episode is sponsored by Lloyd Kia Carlisle, the bestselling vehicle brand in the area and a European Dealer of the Year. What’s the Crack? is sponsored by Warwick Road Bed Centre.

Chris Lumsdon, Skip Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for another episode packed with football debates, honest career stories and plenty of dressing-room nonsense.

Dylan continues the story of his career at Celtic, revealing what it was like sharing a dressing room with Scott Brown, Fraser Forster and other major names. He explains why going out on loan transformed his career and why he...

This episode is sponsored by Male Skin Studio, a male-focused skin specialist offering advanced medical-grade treatments. What’s the Crack? is sponsored by Warwick Road Bed Centre.

Chris Lumsdon, Skip Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for an episode packed with encounters against football legends, Premier League debates and more brilliant stories from their playing careers.

Dylan recalls facing a full-strength Real Madrid team featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos, Kaká, Xabi Alonso, Karim Benzema and Ángel Di María. He reveals what it felt like to see Ronaldo standing opposite him in the tunnel—and how he and...

This episode is sponsored by Safety Comes First, a family-run Carlisle business delivering NVQs, street works training and a range of in-house courses.

Chris Lumsdon, Skip Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for an episode packed with old-school football stories, title-race predictions and honest conversations about the players who never fulfilled their potential.

Chris explains why he rejected Newcastle United to join Sunderland, recalls going on trial at Arsenal alongside Michael Owen and reveals what life was really like as a young apprentice trying to break into Premier League football.

The lads share stories...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for another episode packed with Carlisle United analysis, academy stories and honest reflections on their football careers.

The lads assess Carlisle’s victories over Scunthorpe and Forest Green, asking whether the team has finally discovered the playing identity needed to challenge for promotion. They praise David Ajiboye’s growing confidence and brilliant individual goal, while debating whether the current squad sometimes gives its opponents too much respect.

Skip looks back on receiving a seven-year offer from Carlisle at just 14 before choosing Newcastle United. He reveals how interest...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch return for another episode packed with honest Carlisle United analysis, dressing-room secrets and stories from their playing careers.

The lads dissect Carlisle’s disappointing defeat against Rochdale and question whether the team’s negative approach has damaged their promotion hopes. With York and Rochdale looking stronger, can Carlisle still compete in the play-offs and is finishing outside the top three acceptable?

They also discuss what footballers really know about their teammates’ wages. Does resentment grow when highly paid signings aren’t performing, and what happens inside a dressing roo...

Chris Lumsdon, Mark “Skip” Boyd and Dylan McGeouch launch 3 In The Middle with an episode packed with Carlisle United analysis, dressing-room stories and honest opinions from across football.

The lads review Carlisle’s victory over Altrincham and debate whether the performance was convincing enough to trouble the National League’s strongest teams.

They also celebrate Charlie Wyke’s emotional return following 16 difficult months filled with injuries and setbacks. Dylan explains what Charlie endured during his recovery, the influence he has inside the dressing room and why simply pulling on a Carlisle shirt again represents such an achieve...

Welcome to the 3 In The Middle Podcast 🎙️

Hosted by ex pros Chris Lumsdon and Mark 'Skip' Boyd alongside current player Dylan McGeouch, this is proper football chat, no filters, no scripts, just honest opinions.

From Carlisle United talk to football nonsense, behind-the-scenes stories, big debates and the occasional guests too.

If you love real football conversations, strong opinions and a bit of chaos along the way you’re in the right place.

Follow @3inthemiddle8 on Instagram or email us at T...