Comics front new podcast

Josh Widdicombe and Dara O Briain are to host a new podcast about one of the strangest chapters in Premier League history.

In November 1996, Senegalese footballer Ali Dia convinced Southampton manaher Graeme Souness that he was the cousin of FIFA World Player of the Year George Weah, securing a contract with the club.

But he played only one match, substituted after 53 minutes. Teammate Matt Le Tissier said: ‘He ran around the pitch like Bambi on ice; it was very embarrassing to watch.’

Dia made No1 in a list of the sport’s worst players by The Times, but he has insisted: ‘I have been portrayed as a con man and a poor player, but I am neither and intend to prove people wrong.’ He never did.

Widdicombe and O Briain’s new podcast – 53 Minutes – explores whether he is  guilty of a hoax, a hustle, or simply of being the recipient of a lucky break over six episodes.

And they even tracked down the man himself for the show, which will be released by Global next Tuesday.

Widdicombe said: ’It is an honour to be asked to host this podcast on the greatest mystery of the greatest decade in the history of football.

‘Like any football fan with their priorities right I see the story of Ali Dia as the sacred text of the sport and so I hope we can do it justice. Also, what a joy to be working with Dara and not have him ask me for some unlikely things you’d see in an action film.’

O Briain added: ‘I jumped at the chance to finally get the truth about the legend that is Ali Dia, even though that might involve asking Graham Souness a question and getting a hard stare back.’

Here’s a trailer:

Published: 12 Mar 2024