Every Monday is Mad Monday on 7mate, hosted by former AFL rivals Xavier Ellis and Michael Barlow

The AFL’s biggest stories, hardest hits and controversial calls feature in Seven’s new prime time footy show, Mad Monday, which premiered last night on 7mate and 7plus.

Mad Monday hosts, former footy rivals and good mates, Xavier Ellis and Michael Barlow, bring high-level footy IQ and humour to your new go-to show for fearless commentary and shrewd analysis from inside the four walls.

They are joined each week by the most opinionated man to ever blow a whistle, Dean Margetts, who weighs in on contentious umpiring decisions.

Rounding out the Mad Monday team is midfielder Hamish Brayshaw who takes a sledgehammer to matches with his unique perspective on the weekend’s hits and misses.

Premiership player and Triple M Breakfast host, Xavier Ellis, said: “Mad Monday is like Mum’s minestrone – a bit of everything for everyone.

“I’ve known Mick for a very long time and have been leading him away from temptation for decades. But in all seriousness, I enjoy Mick’s views and insights into the great game.”

Former Fremantle player, Michael Barlow, said: “Contrary to how we interact at times, Xav and I are great friends, just a couple of battlers trying our best. Now the time has come to look into the weekly roller coaster of footy, informatively but always with a brief to have fun.”

Mad Monday Executive Producer, Natalie Bonjolo, said: “Expect the unexpected, we have no plans on reining things in. The format is exciting, fast, fun and will look a little different to your usual footy chat show.

“We’re throwing together a couple of mates, who are former footy rivals, with an umpire who reminds them he’s been in more games than both of them combined. There’s going to be some fireworks!”

Mad Monday is produced by The West Australian newspaper for the Seven Network.

West Australian Newspapers Editor in Chief, Anthony De Ceglie said: “Mad Monday is just the latest extension of the company’s efforts to turbo-charge its video and audience offerings.

“Latest figures show The West Australian boasts 4.4 million readers digitally every month.

“A massive part of the story of our online growth is a major investment in video and audio products – from award-winning documentary series to sports podcasts and now Mad Monday.”

Mad Monday every Monday 7.00pm on 7mate and 7plus