How to Watch Swansea City v West Bromwich Albion: Gez Mulholland and Andy Johnson on WBA Radio and TV

Match date: 1 January 2026

How to Watch Swansea City v West Bromwich Albion: Gez Mulholland and Andy Johnson on WBA Radio and TV

On New Year's Day 2026, football fans across the UK are gearing up for an exciting English Championship clash between Swansea City and West Bromwich Albion at the Swansea.com Stadium, kicking off at 15:00 UK time. While major British broadcasters like ITV, BBC, Sky Sports, or TNT Sports are not covering this fixture live on television, dedicated Baggies supporters can tune into WBA Radio and WBA TV for top-notch coverage featuring the dynamic duo of main commentator Gez Mulholland and co-commentator Andy Johnson. These club-specific channels provide authentic, passionate commentary that brings fans closer to the action, especially for those unable to attend in person[4][5][6].

WBA Radio offers free audio streaming for eligible listeners, while WBA TV delivers a paid video stream (subject to geo-restrictions and purchase), both headlined by Mulholland's expert play-by-play and Johnson's insightful analysis from his playing days. This setup ensures West Brom fans worldwide get Baggies-biased coverage, complete with pre-match build-up and post-game reactions, making it the go-to option for this mid-season showdown[1][2][4].

The absence of free-to-air TV from the likes of ITV or BBC means club media takes centre stage, a common occurrence in the Championship where broadcast rights are fragmented. Sky Sports and TNT might prioritise bigger matches, but for Swansea v West Brom, WBA's own platforms shine, offering value-for-money access that rivals commercial streams. UK-based iFollow subscribers can listen via radio, while international fans often watch the video with commentary embedded for around £5 per match[1].

Meet the Commentators: Gez Mulholland and Andy Johnson

Leading the charge is Gez Mulholland, the voice of West Bromwich Albion for years, renowned for his encyclopedic knowledge of the club and engaging delivery. Mulholland hosts the official West Bromwich Albion podcast, 'The Lord's My Shep-pod', where he dives deep into conversations with past and present players alongside Andy Johnson. His role extends beyond matchdays; he's a staple on WBA TV and Radio, providing live commentary that captures the drama at The Hawthorns and away grounds alike[2][5][6].

Mulholland's career trajectory has seen him become synonymous with Baggies broadcasts. From calling promotions to cup runs, his commentary style blends enthusiasm with tactical nous, making him a fan favourite. His partnership with Johnson has elevated WBA's media output, turning routine games into must-listen events[3].

Joining him is Andy Johnson, a West Brom legend who transitioned seamlessly from midfield maestro to microphone maestro. Signed up in 2019 to bolster WBA Radio's team, Johnson first paired with Mulholland for the remaining 10 home games that season, starting against Norwich City. A promotion winner who featured in the club's first Premier League adventure, Johnson's credentials are impeccable – he walked the walk before talking the talk[1].

Johnson's playing career at West Brom spanned key eras, including triumphs under managers like Darren Moore, a former teammate. Now a popular co-commentator for both WBA Radio and TV, he offers unique insights, drawing from his two-time promotion-winning exploits. In 2024, WBA TV even documented 'A Day With AJ', shadowing him from his morning park walk with his dog to the commentary gantry, highlighting his pre-match rituals and passion for the club[3]. His analysis is peppered with personal anecdotes, like cup semi-finals and Wembley trips, adding authenticity that generic pundits can't match[1][3].

Together, Mulholland and Johnson form one of the Championship's most trusted commentary teams, frequently topping rankings on platforms like the Internet Commentator Database for WBA TV and Radio games[5]. Their chemistry, honed through podcasts and countless matches, promises razor-sharp breakdowns of Swansea's attacking flair versus West Brom's defensive solidity.

Match Preview: Swansea City v West Bromwich Albion

This New Year's Day encounter pits two promotion hopefuls against each other in the English Championship, the world's most competitive second tier. Swansea City, based at the Swansea.com Stadium, boast a squad blending Welsh talent with loanees, known for fluid possession play under their current management. Historically, they've challenged for playoffs, drawing big crowds to their south Wales home.

West Bromwich Albion, the Baggies, carry the weight of a proud legacy – multiple top-flight titles and a fanbase that packs The Hawthorns. Under recent stewardship, they've rebuilt post-relegation, with strengths in set-pieces and midfield grit. January fixtures like this are pivotal; a win could propel them towards automatic promotion spots[4].

Key battles include Swansea's pacey forwards testing West Brom's backline, where Johnson's expertise will shine in dissecting transitions. Expect Mulholland to hype any Baggies goals with his signature flair, while Johnson provides context from similar high-stakes games he's played in.

How to Access WBA Radio and WBA TV

Tuning in is straightforward for fans. WBA Radio streams live via the official West Bromwich Albion website or app, ideal for those on the move. It's the perfect companion for UK listeners blacked out from video streams[1][6].

For the full visual experience, WBA TV ($/geo/R) requires a match pass purchase, available on wba.co.uk. Geo-restrictions apply – UK viewers might get audio-only via iFollow, while overseas fans enjoy video with commentary. Check eligibility to avoid blackouts[1][4][5].

Both channels feature the Mulholland-Johnson duo, ensuring consistent quality. Pre-match, expect team news, predicted line-ups, and historical stats; post-match, player ratings and fan reactions.

Why WBA's Coverage Stands Out in the Championship

In an era of fragmented TV rights, club channels like WBA's fill vital gaps. Unlike Sky's polished but neutral feeds, WBA Radio and TV deliver unfiltered passion. Johnson’s transition from player to pundit mirrors trends at clubs like West Bromwich Albion official site, enhancing authenticity[1][3].

Mulholland's hosting prowess on the podcast showcases his versatility, interviewing icons and analysing form. This depth enriches matchdays, turning a 15:00 kick-off into an event[2].

Fans praise the duo's accessibility – Johnson's everyman charm and Mulholland's encyclopedic recall make complex tactics digestible. For British viewers missing BBC or ITV, this is Championship football at its grassroots best.

Broader Context: Championship Broadcast Landscape

The English Championship lacks the universal TV coverage of the Premier League, with rights split between Sky, EFL's own streams, and club media. Matches like Swansea v West Brom often go to iFollow or equivalents, empowering clubs financially[4].

West Brom's setup exemplifies this, with WBA TV ranking high in commentator databases thanks to consistent Mulholland-Johnson pairings[5]. Swansea fans might turn to their Swans TV, but for neutrals, it's a hidden gem.

Looking ahead, this fixture could influence the promotion race. West Brom's away form, bolstered by Johnson's motivational insights, might edge it. Tune in to hear the calls live.

Tips for the Perfect Viewing Experience

• Purchase your WBA TV pass early via the official site to beat rush.
• Use the WBA app for seamless radio streaming on mobiles.
• Follow live updates on West Brom's socials for real-time team news.
• Post-match, catch the podcast for deeper Johnson-Mulholland debriefs.

For more on the clubs, explore West Bromwich Albion on Wikipedia or EFL Championship details. This coverage isn't just commentary; it's a celebration of Baggies heritage.

Don't miss out – Gez Mulholland and Andy Johnson will bring every moment to life on WBA Radio and TV as West Brom chase glory at Swansea.