Alex Scott Hosts Final BBC Football Focus with Shay Given and Martin Keown - Where to Watch Today

Match date: 9 May 2026

Alex Scott Hosts Final BBC Football Focus with Shay Given and Martin Keown - Where to Watch Today

As the Premier League season hurtles towards its dramatic conclusion, BBC Sport delivers one of its most poignant broadcasts today with the latest edition of Football Focus. Hosted by the charismatic Alex Scott, this Saturday lunchtime staple airs on BBC One, HD, BBC Sport Online, and BBC iPlayer (geo-restricted to UK viewers) at 12:00 UK time. With the programme confirmed to bow out after this season's final show on 23rd May, fans are urged to tune in for what could be a memorable penultimate episode, featuring insights from goalkeeping legend Shay Given and defensive stalwart Martin Keown.

Football Focus, a cornerstone of British football coverage since 1970, has been the go-to pre-match magazine show for decades, dissecting the weekend's key fixtures with expert analysis and behind-the-scenes access. Its announcement to end after the current campaign – with the Premier League wrapping up on 24th May – marks the close of an era for BBC Sport. Yet, relief for viewers comes in the form of Alex Scott's continued involvement; the former England Lionesses star, born in 1984, will feature prominently in BBC's World Cup 2026 coverage. Scott's transition from professional footballer – where she earned 140 caps and won bronze at the 2012 Olympics – to broadcaster has been seamless. Her sharp presenting style, honed on shows like The One Show and Eurosport, brings energy and inclusivity to Football Focus, making complex tactics accessible to all.

Joining Scott today are two pundits whose careers embody Premier League grit. Shay Given, the Irish shot-stopper who amassed over 500 appearances for Newcastle United across 14 seasons, is renowned for his heroics in the 1999 FA Cup semi-final penalty shootout against Spurs. With 134 caps for Republic of Ireland and stints at Manchester City, Aston Villa, and Sunderland, Given's post-retirement analysis is gold dust. His calm demeanour and deep understanding of modern goalkeeping – from distribution to one-on-one battles – have made him a BBC regular, offering balanced views on title chasers and relegation scraps alike.

Complementing Given is Martin Keown, the epitome of Arsenal's indomitable defence during their golden 1990s and early 2000s era. A key player in three Premier League titles and four FA Cups, Keown's no-nonsense tackling and tactical nous earned him 43 England caps. Famous for his intense rivalry with Manchester United's Roy Keane, Keown's punditry career exploded post-retirement in 2004. His tenure on Match of the Day and now Football Focus is characterised by forensic breakdowns, often donning a waistcoat and delivering impassioned verdicts on defensive lapses or midfield mastery.

Today's episode promises comprehensive previews of the weekend's mouthwatering clashes, from top-of-the-table showdowns to survival six-pointers. With the relegation battle fiercer than ever and European spots up for grabs, expect Scott, Given, and Keown to dissect formations, player form, and injury updates. Given might spotlight Newcastle's latest goalkeeper conundrums, drawing from his Magpies legacy, while Keown could rally for Arsenal's title push reminiscent of his Invincibles days. As Football Focus nears its end, this trio's chemistry – blending Scott's fresh perspective with the veterans' wisdom – underscores why the show has captivated generations.

For those unable to catch it live, BBC iPlayer offers on-demand access post-broadcast, ensuring no fan misses out. This farewell season amplifies the stakes: Manchester City chasing history, Liverpool rebuilding, and underdogs dreaming big. BBC Sport's commitment to quality coverage remains, evolving beyond Football Focus into innovative formats. Tune in at noon on BBC One to witness football's heartbeat, dissected by icons. Whether you're a die-hard supporter or casual viewer, this is unmissable telly as the beautiful game reaches fever pitch.

In an era of fragmented streaming, BBC's free-to-air model keeps football for the masses. Reflecting on Alex Scott's journey from Poplar's pitches to national treasure status, or Given and Keown's battle scars turned broadcast brilliance, today's show salutes their legacies. Don't forget to follow BBC Sport online for live updates and reaction. With 700 words of pure anticipation, grab your cuppa – Premier League pandemonium awaits.

Article generated: 9 May 2026, 12:01 GMT