Comedian Ray Bradshaw and former Celtic striker Cillian Sheridan are launching a new club-neutral live football experience in Glasgow.
In Good Company: The Football Edition will debut at SWG3 on Sunday 1 November, bringing Neil Lennon, Aiden McGeady and James McFadden together for 90 minutes on the state, culture and future of the Scottish game.
Created as an alternative to the traditional fan event, the night will tackle the bigger questions around youth development, coaching, management, the changing domestic landscape and where Scottish football goes next.
The concept is the brainchild of Sheridan, who retired from professional football two months ago and is now making his first move into live events. Since retiring, he has also become a regular pundit and guest on Clyde 1 Superscoreboard.
Sheridan commented, “I wanted to create the kind of night I’d actually want to go to. There are loads of great dinners and fan events out there, but I felt there was room for something more relaxed, accessible and thoughtful. Something that was more universally about the game; rather than specific clubs.
He added, talking about the debut panel, “Neil, Aiden and James have seen the game from so many angles, from international football to coaching and management. The aim is to get into the bigger issues – really , under the hood of Scottish football - and give people something they maybe haven’t heard or considered before.
“You don’t need to be a superfan either. If you’re interested in sport, culture or simply hearing smart people talk about something they know inside out, there should be something in it for you.”
The event is deliberately club-neutral, with club colours left at home, and is intended to bring together supporters from across the game as well as those who might not consider themselves traditional fans.
Sheridan added, “This first panel has a couple of strong Celtic connections- yes, but that isn’t what In Good Company is about. Future editions will feature people from different clubs, generations and every part of the industry, from players and managers to coaches and emerging talent.
“We want the panels to properly reflect the game. The idea is that you can come with your dad, your partner, your mate or someone who barely watches football, have a drink, eat a pie and hopefully leave with a new perspective.”
Sheridan’s long-time friend, comedian Ray Bradshaw, will host the evening. Bradshaw commented, “Cillian spent years playing football and apparently his first idea after retiring was to make everyone talk about it for another 90 minutes. Thankfully, he’s picked three people with plenty to say.
“It should be smart, funny and relaxed, without feeling like the usual football night. And if it all gets too serious, there are pies at half-time.”
The format takes its cue from the game itself, with 90 minutes split into two halves, a 20-minute interval and a live audience Q&A to finish. Steak pies are included in the ticket price, with music and a full bar completing the evening at SWG3.
Buy tickets for the event here.