A.I. In Football cover art

A.I. In Football

A.I. In Football

By: Tom Butterfield & David Bromley
Listen for free

About this listen

AI in Football: Recruitment Decisions, Done Properly is a practical podcast about how football clubs make better recruitment decisions in an AI world — without the hype. We don’t chase novelty tools. We focus on the thinking and structure that makes any tool useful: clear role briefs, behaviours over labels, constraints and trade-offs, repeatable shortlisting, and decision review that actually improves the process. Each episode gives you something you can use: - Role Definition Templates (behaviour-based, not position labels) - Question sets that lead to better shortlists - Meeting Structures that stop recruitment becoming a persuasion contest - Simple Ways to Stress-Test Decisions (“what would make this wrong?”) - How AI Fits Safely: drafting, checking, standardising outputs — never replacing judgement If you work in recruitment, scouting, analysis, coaching, or you’re aiming to, this show is for you. Clarity First. Tools Second.Copyright 2026 Tom Butterfield & David Bromley Football (Soccer)
Episodes
  • Bonus Episode 2 - Replacing Heung-Min Son - Ranking The Best Fit Replacements (Xavi Simons Ranked Number 33!)
    Feb 19 2026

    Join the Free Kickstart Challenge

    Summary

    In this episode of the AI in Football podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley delve into the recruitment process for Tottenham Hotspur, focusing on the use of data analytics and AI in player selection.

    They discuss personal updates, the importance of a structured recruitment process, and the various stages involved in identifying and evaluating potential players.

    The conversation highlights the significance of data import, player rankings, video scouting, and the due diligence required before finalizing selections. The hosts reflect on the efficiency of the process and the need for continuous improvement in recruitment strategies.

    Takeaways

    1. The recruitment process is structured into multiple stages.
    2. Data analytics plays a crucial role in player selection.
    3. Pre-mortem analysis helps identify potential pitfalls in recruitment.
    4. Video scouting provides valuable insights into player performance.
    5. The target matrix is essential for tracking potential signings.
    6. Due diligence is necessary before finalizing player selections.
    7. Efficiency in scouting can lead to better recruitment outcomes.
    8. AI analysis can enhance the evaluation of player metrics.
    9. Continuous improvement is vital in recruitment strategies.
    10. Understanding the club's playing style is key to successful signings.

    Useful Links

    Join the Free Kickstart Challenge

    Support The Show - Buy David and Tom a bag of peanut M&M's.

    Instagram

    Youtube Channel

    Show More Show Less
    40 mins
  • Bonus Episode: What Type of Player Should Replace Son Heung-Min at Spurs?
    Feb 13 2026

    YouTube Episode

    Join the Free Kickstart Challenge

    Summary

    In this episode of the AI and Football podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley delve into the intricacies of football recruitment, particularly focusing on Tottenham Hotspur's challenges in replacing key players.

    They explore the role of AI in streamlining recruitment processes, defining objectives, and identifying player attributes that align with team strategies.

    The conversation emphasises the importance of data analysis, setting constraints, and establishing key performance indicators to evaluate potential recruits effectively.

    The hosts also discuss the significance of behavioural role definitions and the necessity of filtering players based on specific criteria to ensure a successful recruitment strategy.

    Takeaways

    1. AI can significantly enhance recruitment processes in football.
    2. Defining clear objectives is crucial for effective player replacement.
    3. Understanding player attributes helps in making informed recruitment decisions.
    4. Constraints and priorities guide the recruitment strategy.
    5. Behavioural role definitions clarify what is expected from players.
    6. Key performance indicators are essential for evaluating player effectiveness.
    7. Data analysis provides insights into player performance metrics.
    8. Filtering players based on specific criteria narrows down options.
    9. Collaboration and feedback are vital in refining recruitment strategies.
    10. The recruitment process is a continuous work in progress.

    Useful Links

    Join the Free Kickstart Challenge

    Support The Show - Buy David and Tom a bag of peanut M&M's.

    Instagram

    Youtube Channel

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Ep46: Identity → Game Model — Turning Words Into 'Behaviours by Phase'.
    Feb 6 2026

    Join the Free Kickstart Challenge

    Summary

    In this episode of the AI in Football podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley delve into the significance of defining a game model in football recruitment. They discuss how a clear identity can streamline recruitment decisions, emphasizing the importance of observable player behaviors and the integration of AI in enhancing scouting processes. The conversation covers the various phases of a game, the implications for recruitment, and the necessity of proof behaviors to measure team performance effectively. The episode concludes with a look ahead to future discussions on formations and role archetypes.

    Takeaways

    1. Recruitment decisions should align with a club's identity.
    2. Defining a game model helps clarify recruitment needs.
    3. Observable behaviors are essential for effective coaching.
    4. Simplicity in defining player roles aids understanding.
    5. Proof behaviors provide measurable standards for performance.
    6. AI can enhance the recruitment process by standardizing evaluations.
    7. Clarity in communication between coaches and scouts is crucial.
    8. Identifying specific behaviours aids in player scouting.
    9. Game phases must be understood for effective strategy implementation.
    10. A concise game model fosters better team cohesion.

    Useful Links

    Join the Free Kickstart Challenge

    Support The Show - Buy David and Tom a bag of peanut M&M's.

    Instagram

    Youtube Channel

    Show More Show Less
    30 mins
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.