Women’s football continues to grow in popularity worldwide, and with this rise comes the need for more in-depth coverage and discussion surrounding the sport. Enter Crossways, a newly launched podcast hosted by iconic figures in football, Ian Wright and Steph Houghton.
Produced by The Ringer in partnership with Spotify, Crossways is set to become a go-to resource for fans of the Women’s Super League (WSL) and women’s football in general.
Crossways is not just another sports podcast. It promises to dive deep into all aspects of women’s football, offering insights and stories from both the professional and grassroots levels.
Who Are the Hosts?
The dynamic duo of Ian Wright and Steph Houghton brings a wealth of experience and passion to the show. Ian Wright is a household name in football, having had an illustrious career as a player and now as a respected pundit. Wright has long been a vocal advocate for the women’s game, constantly pushing for more recognition and respect for women athletes.
Ian Wright, Arsenal legend, said:
“I’m really excited for Crossways and that I get to do this with Steph, who I love and respect.
“She’s had such an incredible career at the very top level. She’s seen and experienced some of the most important stages in women’s football, so when we bumped into each other after her retirement, we got talking and instantly knew that we wanted to do something together. So I’m glad that the day has arrived. It’s going to be a big season with the next Women’s Euros in the summer – and there’s loads to play for in the Barclays WSL.”
Steph Houghton, on the other hand, is a trailblazer in women’s football. The former England captain has been at the forefront of the WSL’s rise and remains one of the sport’s most influential figures. Her first-hand experience in the professional game adds a unique layer of insight to the podcast.
Steph Houghton, former England captain, said:
“We both love football and with the women’s game we come at it from totally different perspectives, which is what makes Crossways unique. I’m really happy to be doing this show alongside Ian. His playing career speaks for itself, but he’s also been one of the most consistent voices around women’s football.
“It’s another new start for me. Now in my post-playing career, this is an an exciting opportunity to have real in-depth football conversations and connect with the wider women’s football community.”
The podcast launched on 20 September, perfectly timed ahead of the Women’s Super League season opener. With the growing anticipation for the upcoming season, Crossways provides fans with the perfect opportunity to engage more deeply with the sport. Each episode will be available on Spotify, YouTube, and all other major podcast platforms, ensuring accessibility for football fans everywhere.
Women’s Football on the Rise
The growth of women’s football, both on and off the field, has been phenomenal. Leagues like the WSL are now attracting more fans, sponsors, and media attention than ever before. This rise is partly fueled by prominent figures like Ian Wright and Steph Houghton, who are using their platforms to spotlight the women’s game.
Podcasts like Crossways represent a new era for women’s football, where media coverage and fan engagement are no longer afterthoughts but essential elements of the sport's growth. As the women’s game continues to carve out its space in the global football landscape, media initiatives like this will play a key role in ensuring that its success is sustained and celebrated.
Tune in to the first episode today, available on Spotify, YouTube, and all podcast platforms, and stay ahead of the game as the WSL season kicks off.
