Association football (Soccer) Books

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Book SynopsisThis is the story of the greatest achievement in the history of international football. After decades of failure, Spain won Euro 2008 and then the World Cup in 2010. At Euro 2012 they became the first team to win three consecutive tournament titles. This book has remarkable eyewitness accounts and new interviews with star players.

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Book SynopsisBallon d'Or winner. Champions League winner. Serie A winner. Captain of Ukraine at their first-ever World Cup. Andriy Shevchenko conquered the football world. His career featured some of the sport's greatest characters - from Valerij Lobanovsky, who shaped his early years at Dynamo Kyiv, to Carlo Ancelotti, Paolo Maldini, Andrea Pirlo and Kaka as part of a world-class Milan team. But Shevchenko's story transcends football. Growing up 150km from the Chernobyl disaster, witnessing the decline of the Soviet Union and its descent into lawlessness, the struggles of his beloved Ukraine to gain independence in 1991 - and then the agony of the Russian invasion of his homeland in 2022. This is a football and human story like no other.Trade Review"Highly recommended. Very entertaining, very interesting." - Gary Lineker "Shevchenko's book covers far more than football and is well worth a read." - Michael Cox, The Athletic

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Book SynopsisAn affectionate, insightful portrait of the club beloved by millions of fans around the world.

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Book SynopsisA must-read autobiography by the legendary Spurs player and manager.

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Book SynopsisHuddersfield Town Miscellany collects together all the vital information you never knew you needed to know about the Terriers. In these pages you will find irresistible anecdotes and the most mindblowing stats and facts. Heard the one about the striker who scored 223 goals in 268 appearances for the club? How about the centre-forward who netted 289 goals in just 40 games before joining Town? Do you know what has been the longest journey (by road) any Huddersfield Town team has had to make to play a Football League fixture? When Town were unbeaten at home in the FA Cup for 19 years? Or which Town player had a record 32 letters in his name? All these stories and hundreds more appear in a brilliantly researched collection of trivia - essential for any fan who holds the riches of blue-and-white history close to their heart.

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Book SynopsisGot, Not Got: The Lost World of Manchester City is an Aladdin's cave of memories and memorabilia, guaranteed to whisk you back to Maine Road's fondly remembered 'Golden Age' of mud and magic - as well as a City-mad childhood of miniature tabletop games and imaginary, comic-fuelled worlds. The book recalls a more innocent era of football, lingering longingly over relics from the good old days - Blues stickers and petrol freebies, league ladders, big-match programmes and much more - revisiting lost football culture, treasures and pleasures that are 100 per cent Manchester City. If you were a Junior Blue, one of the army of obsessive soccer kids at any time from when Joe Mercer's lads won the league to the early days of the Premier League, then this is the book to recall the mavericks - Marsh and Bell, Summerbee, Tueart and White - and the marvels of the Lost World of Football.

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Book SynopsisGot, Not Got: The Lost World of Derby County is an Aladdin's cave of memories and memorabilia, guaranteed to whisk you back to the Baseball Ground's fondly remembered 'Golden Age' of mud and magic - as well as a Rams-mad childhood of miniature tabletop games and imaginary, comic-fuelled worlds. The book recalls a more innocent era of football, lingering longingly over relics from the good old days - Rams stickers and petrol freebies, league ladders, big-match programmes and much more - revisiting lost football culture, treasures and pleasures that are 100 per cent Derby County. If you were a Junior Ram, one of the army of obsessive soccer kids at any time from when Cloughie's lads won the League to the early days of the Premier League, then this is the book to recall the mavericks - Mackay, Lee and Hector, George, Saunders and Gabbiadini - and the marvels of the Lost World of Football.

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Book SynopsisGot, Not Got: The Lost World of Liverpool is an Aladdin's cave of memories and memorabilia, guaranteed to whisk you back to Anfield's fondly remembered 'Golden Age' of mud and magic - as well as a Reds-mad childhood of miniature tabletop games and imaginary, comic-fuelled worlds. The book recalls a more innocent era of football, lingering longingly over relics from the good old days - Reds stickers and petrol freebies, league ladders, big-match programmes and much more - revisiting lost football culture, treasures and pleasures that are 100 per cent Liverpool. If you're a lifelong Liverpool fan, one of the army of obsessive soccer kids at any time from when Shanks won his first '60s silverware to the early days of the Premier League, then this is the book to recall the mavericks - Keegan, Dalglish and St John, Rush, Barnes and Souness - and the marvels of the Lost World of Football.

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the Sunday Times Football Book of the Year 2022 One of the Financial Times Top 5 Best Sports Books of the Year The 1970 World Cup is widely regarded as the greatest ever staged, with more goals per game than any World Cup since. But more than just the proliferation of goals was the quality of the overall football, as some of the finest teams ever to represent the likes of West Germany, Peru, Italy and England came together for a tilt at the world title. But at the heart of the tournament were Brazil; captained by Carlos Alberto and featuring legends like Pelé, Gérson, Jairzinho, Rivellino and Tostão, the 1970 Seleção are often cited as the greatest-ever World Cup team. Using brand new interviews alongside painstaking archival research, Andrew Downie charts each stage of the tournament, from the preparations to the final, telling a host of remarkable stories in the players’ own words. The result is an immediate, insightful and compelling narrative that paints a unique portrait of an extraordinary few weeks when football hit peaks it has seldom reached since. This is Mexico 1970. Welcome to the Greatest Show on Earth.Trade Review'An account of arguably the best football World Cup, told almost entirely in quotes from the men who played in it' * Financial Times, FT Best Books of the Year *'the voices in this charming book—each one an aging football star’s—are eloquent to a man' -- Tunku Varadarajan * The Wall Street Journal *'For any football nurd out there it is fascinating because you don’t only speak about the beautiful final between Brazil and Italy, you go for the first round matches too. It is a really, really interesting read…' * Monocle Daily *'Phenomenal – a terrific read' -- Grant Wahl

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Book SynopsisFor around twenty years, Nick Fisk believed that one day he would find a letter on his doormat from Cardiff City FC requesting his services on the football pitch. When he realised it was unlikely he was ever going to be offered the role of groundsman, he decided the next best thing would be to write about the club instead. A former member of the not especially notorious non-hooligan gang, The Sad Crew, Fisk has plenty of experience to draw from, in terms of going to football matches, and coming up with ridiculous chants that nobody ever joins in with. In The Blues Are Back in Town Nick charts the 2014/15 season, following the team and its fans, and trying to rediscover his passion for the recently relegated club, while at the same time, reflecting on the good old days. The blog he kept, The Fisk Report, gave an insight into not just what it's like to be a typical fan, but what supporting The Bluebirds is like through the eyes of a Fisk. It is a funny, enigmatic and personal book about the passion and belief of being a football fan.

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Book SynopsisFew can have had as interesting or varied a career as Martin Broughton - a very British businessman. And just when he thought he'd retired, in 2022 Martin found himself heading a bid for Chelsea FC. A fascinating inside story in itself, it provides a topical dimension to this engaging memoir. Martin recounts his start at the very bottom of the commercial ladder and his subsequent rise to some of the most prestigious and demanding boardrooms in the country. With an acute accountant's brain and a desire to see the world, he cut his teeth working overseas for BAT. With each promotion came a new challenge - often in a new country. Wherever he went he was never just an observer but always a participant. His description of being on the frontline against one of the City's bitterest takeover battles makes for a fascinating read. In 1993 Martin was appointed CEO of BAT - in succession to the charismatic Sir Pat Sheehy - and oversaw a period of great change and controversy in the tobacco industry. When, in turn, he retired after 11 years at the helm, it was a very different and even more successful company. Always one for a challenge, many new business opportunities presented themselves including - Chairmanship of British Airways and its merger into the International Airlines Group, Presidency of the Confederation of British Industry, involvement in F1 Grand Prix motor racing, and Chairmanship of Liverpool Football Club at a time when a shrewd and steady hand was needed to find an acceptable new owner for this iconic club - this was not without a vigorous legal battle. Such was the ultimate respect of the Liverpool supporters for him that the Kop sang with gusto "There's only one Martin Broughton." Not bad for a man who is a self-confessed lifelong Chelsea supporter. All through this very readable memoir run additional themes - his love of music, hence the book's title and the chapter headings, the importance of family and finally, in partnership with his wife - Jocelyn, an abiding passion for horse racing.Table of ContentsOverture 7 1. Que Sera, Sera 2. Leaving on a Jet Plane 3. Lady in Red 4. Greatest Day 5. Garota de Ipanema 6. London Calling 7. Phantom of the Opera 8. A Kind of Magic 9. Don't Stop Me Now 10. Time to Say Goodbye 11. Carmen 12. The Flower Duet 13. United We Stand 14. Camptown Races 15. Heart of Courage 16. Listen to me 17. You'll Never Walk Alone 18. Glory Days Extra Time Blue is the Colour

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Book SynopsisThey come out of the football stadium tunnel first, but all eyes are on the well-paid athletes behind them. No one pays the referee or the referee's assistants any attention - until they make a mistake. Then all hell breaks loose. They can't explain - or defend themselves against the crowd's abuse. Gavin Muge threads an entertaining personal football memoir together with his own attempts to scale the peak of the professional game as a match official. His football life has led to encounters with a cast of stars from Gary Lineker to Paul Gascoigne, Arsene Wenger and Roy Keane. He officiated at the infamous Riot of Upton Park in 2009 and has witnessed many examples of the darker side of the game. Gavin has also shared the excitement and the pain of the average football supporter and now has the experience to try to make sense of it all in My Life on the Line. See if you agree with him! And pit your knowledge against Gavin's with the book's Chapter Challenges and his Quiz.Table of ContentsIntroduction PART 1 A FOOTBALL SELF-PORTRAIT. Chapter 1: Hatters' Tea Party Me, Eric Morecambe and a Lifelong Commitment to Luton Town FC Chapter 2: Playing Peak Me, Gary Lineker and the Player of the Year Award Chapter 3: Pitch Battles Me, Millwall and the Way it was Then Chapter 4: Maturity Me, Gazza and Marriage PART 2 SIDELINE OR FRONT LINE? Chapter 5: Earning My Stripes Rungs on the Ladder Chapter 6: Match Day 'Arsene Wenger's having a party/Bring your vodka and your Charlie' Chapter 7: "Look at the Bizzies" The Riot of Upton Park, Part 1 Chapter 8: "If we leave, we won't be coming back" The Riot of Upton Park, Part 2 PART 3 WITHIN TOUCHING DISTANCE? Chapter 9: No Time to be Star Struck Me, Roy Keane, Paulo Di Canio & a Bollocking from Mark Noble Chapter 10: The Long and Winding Road Nearly There Chapter 11: The Best Party Reflections on a Career PART 4 THE UNOFFICIAL GUIDE TO LIFE AS A FOOTBALL OFFICIAL. Chapter 12: 1863 and All That The Laws of the Game and how we got them Chapter 13: So You Want to be a Referee's Assistant A Few Insights Chapter 14: We Need to Talk About VAR Cure-All or Confusion? PART 5 THE WIDER VIEW. Chapter 15: Match Officials in World Cup History The Hand of God, etc Chapter 16: Where are We Now and Where Are we Going? A Brighter Future with some changes to the Game Chapter 17: Match Fixing & the Power of Money Stuff Happens PART 6 EXTRA TIME. Chapter 18: Gavin's Football Quiz Answers at the Back Chapter 19: Fun Stuff Jokes, Quotes and Anecdotes Chapter 20: Poetry in Motion That Goal APPENDIX. Being a Match Official - The Details Links to YouTube Clips Bibliography Acknowledgements Author profiles

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Book SynopsisThis is the definitive, unique account of the disaster in which 96 men, women and children were killed, hundreds injured and thousands traumatised. It details the appalling treatment endured by the bereaved and survivors in the immediate aftermath, the inhumanity of the identification process and the vilification of fans in the national and international media.In 2012, Phil Scraton was primary author of the ground-breaking report published by the Hillsborough Independent Panel following its new research into thousands of documents disclosed by all agencies involved. Against a backdrop of almost three decades of persistent struggle by bereaved families and survivors, in this new edition he reflects on the Panel’s in-depth work, its revelatory findings and their unprecedented impact – an unreserved apology from the Prime Minister; new criminal investigations; the Independent Police Complaints Commission’s largest-ever inquiry; the quashing of 96 inquest verdicts; a review of all health and pathology policies. Paving the way for truth recovery and institutional accountability in other controversial cases, he details the process and considers the impact of the longest ever inquests, from the preliminary hearings to their comprehensive, devastating verdicts.Powerful, disturbing and harrowing, Hillsborough: The Truth exposes the institutional complacency that led to the unlawful killing of the 96, revealing how the interests of ordinary people are marginalised when those in authority sacrifice truth and accountability to protect their reputations.Trade ReviewThis book is dynamite. A brilliant achievement, a real page-turner. -- Jimmy McGovernThe full truth about Hillsborough would never have been known were it not for Phil Scraton’s meticulous efforts over many years – he has done a huge service not just to the Hillsborough families but to this country. -- Andy Burnham, MP

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Book Synopsis'The F2 are unbelievable - what they do is not possible!' - Pelé We're The F2 and this is our World of Football. Inside we give away the biggest secrets of the greatest footballers on the planet. Want tricks like Neymar? Or to hit free-kicks like Ronaldo? Or to dribble like Messi? We show you how.We've been travelling the world, meeting the biggest stars, like Gareth Bale, Ronaldinho, Mesut Özil, Pelé and Stevie G, and now we give you the lowdown on what they're really like, and how they got their edge.We'll also let you in on our journey from aspiring pros to YouTube superstars with over 10 million followers. Want to know how to become a social media star? That's inside too.There's a free app to download that will make these pages come to life with exclusive videos, tricks and games. So, what are you waiting for? Open, read, learn, download and get out on the pitch and practise. Love, peace and tekkers,Billy and Jez, aka The F2Enter the F2 World of Football competition!!Submit your pre-order confirmation for a chance to win a selection of amazing prizes, including having your book delivered to your door by Billy and Jez and featuring on their Vlog!Go to www.F2playlikeapro.co.uk for all the details.

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Book SynopsisThe ultimate football adventure story from the world's greatest football duo, The F2When the evil Galaxico aliens steal the game of football from planet Earth, it's up to Jez and Billy (and the help of their trusty time machines) to assemble the greatest team to have ever played the beautiful game in the hope of stealing it back! From the 1958 World Cup Final, to the year 3000, The F2 travel through time and call upon some of heroes of footballs past, present and future to help in their quest to reinstate the joys of playing the game. With cameos from Pele, Steven Gerrard, Cristiano Ronaldo (and his granddaughter from the future, Julia Ronaldo!), this is a wonderful football story of good vs evil!

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Book SynopsisTake your game to the next level with the new book from the world's biggest football YouTubers, the F2. We're the F2 and in our brand new book we're going to show you how to take your football skills to the next level. In these pages we turn the spotlight on the greatest players, the biggest teams, and most jaw-dropping moments from across the football world, and teach you the skills and the tekkers it takes to be the best!Want step-overs like Sánchez? Or a piledriver like Ibrahimovic? Or quick-feet likeMessi? We show you how. Our book is filled with tips and hacks, as well as the inside track on your favourite stars: Pogba, Suárez, Agu¨ero and the rest.There's even a free app that brings the book to life and shows you how toturbo-charge your tekkers! There's not a moment to lose - open, read, learn, download and get out on the pitch and practise.Love, peace and tekkers.Trade ReviewThe F2 are unbelievable, what they do is not possible! * Pele *

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Book SynopsisAfter the dog days of the last three decades, it seems as if the sleeping giant of White Hart Lane is stirring once more. With the management reigns of Christian Gross, Harry Redknapp and AVB now distant memories, the club is on the march once more under the leadership of Daniel Levy, looking forward to bringing back the glory days. With exciting young English talent, such as Eric Lamela, Deli Alli and Ryan Sessegnon, along with experienced internationals Christian Eriksen, Jan Vertonghen and Son Heung-min, and now under Jose Mourinho's unique management style, there is a belief that success is within their reach. Perhaps more than most, the club has had its share of ups and downs and more than its share of characters. This book is a collection of quotes from those who have passed through London N17 and some who are still there, soundbites that range from the inspired to the insane, from the profound to the surreal. From Danny Blanchflower, Jimmy Greaves, Paul Gascoigne and Sir Alan Sugar, to Daniel, Mauricio and Harry Kane, few clubs can boast so many people with so much to say for themselves. Tottenham Hotspur have a proud tradition and a very loyal support, and this book captures the flavour of both. Table of ContentsGlory, Glory, Tottenham Hotspur • Heroes of the Shirt • Beat your Neighbours • In the Boardroom • Gaffer Chatter • It's Great to be a Lilywhite • Magic Moments.

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Book SynopsisManchester City stormed to the clubs fourth Premier League title in 2019, the fourth championship in seven seasons, which is a far cry from the 44-year wait which ended in 2012! It is hard to believe that less than 20 years ago, City were in what is now League One. Their loyal fans spent so many years riding on the wildest roller-coaster in English football, with so many ups and downs that they hardly knew in which division they were competing, but things have changed and now City are among not only England's elite, but also Europe's. This incredible journey is recorded in this updated edition of The Little Book of Man City, a selection of the wit and wisdom of the great characters who have been associated with the club. From managers, such as Malcolm Allison, Kevin Keegan, Roberto Mancini and Pep Guardiola, via garrulous fans such as Radio 1's Mark and Lard and the Gallagher brothers to voluble players such as Francis Lee, Dennis Tueart, Rodney Marsh, Kun Aguero and Vincent Kompany, here are more than 170 funny and biting quotes for the avid fan of 'the only club in Manchester'. As their chaplain once said, 'Imagine where City would be if I hadn't been praying for them all these years.'Table of ContentsQuotes from more than 100 legendary characters who have made Manchester City one of the most interesting clubs in English football. From Francis Lee and Malcolm Allison, to Roberto Mancini, Pep Guardiola, Sergio Aguero and Vincent Kompany, together with the thoughts of famous fans, such as the Gallagher brothers, every aspect of the life of a Manchester City player or supporter is shown in true sky blue moon colour.

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Book SynopsisThe Little Book of Man United is a collection of words of wit and wisdom by and about Manchester United's players, managers and officials past and present. Since the arrival of the Premier League, no club in England can match the Red Devils' 13 titles, two UEFA Champions League victories, the FIFA World Club Cup, six triumphs in the FA Cup, three in the League Cup and 11 in the FA Charity/Community Shield – and there was plenty more glory in the club's first 115 years too. From Alan Hansen's falsely prophetic 'You'll never win anything with kids' to Eric Cantona's existentialist aphorism on the theme of seagulls, sardines and trawlers, the book contains more than 170 Red Devilish football quotes. Each quote is attributed to its source and, where appropriate, entries will be accompanied by explanatory asides and/or supporting statistics. Broken down into seven chapters, each one focuses on what makes being a supporter of Manchester United FC such a special experience. Table of ContentsThe United Way • Heroes of the Shirt • Gaffer Talk • Into Europe • Magic Moments • Fergie's Sayings • The Glory Days.

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Book SynopsisHoward Kendall: Notes on a Season provides a unique and rich insight into the legendary manager's historic season of 1984-85. Compiled from the matchday programme notes, Kendall takes us through a campaign that included a league double over Liverpool, an epic 5-0 v Manchester United and Cup Winners' Cup against Bayern Munich.

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Book SynopsisDavid Prentice is the Sport Editor of the Liverpool Echo, the city's famous newspaper. His fascinating book charts almost half-a-century of Everton Football Club's history - from a unique insider. It is a fan-fare and a news report. A travelogue and a social comment - and a poignant reflection of how football and journalism has changed forever.

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Book Synopsis‘It’s a funny old game.’ The world’s favourite sport has certainly given us its fair share of strange moments, and this absorbing collection gathers together the best of them, from more than a century of the beautiful game. From Blackburn Rovers’ one-man team to Wilfred Minter’s seven-goal haul in which he still ended up on the losing side, here are goals and gaffes galore drawn from all levels of the footballing world, whether high-profile internationals or the lowest tiers of domestic football. The stories in this book are bizarre, fascinating, hilarious, and, most importantly, true. This brand new edition, redesigned in splendid hardback for 2018, is the perfect gift for the soccer obsessive in your life. Word count: 45,000 words

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Book SynopsisFrom hilarious to heart-breaking, The 101 Club tells the tale of an epic journey from the club's darkest nights to one of its greatest occasions and beyond. Almost 40 years on, the legacy of these local heroes lives on - had it not been for their exhilarating exploits, Town's Premier League dreams would be unfulfilled. Manager Mick Buxton's misfits and castoffs joined forces to capture the hearts of a generation of Town fans - including current club owner Dean Hoyle. Scoring a club-record 101 goals, the Fourth Division title was dramatically clinched in the final moments of the 1979-80 season with a never-to-be forgotten win over Hartlepool in front of a jam-packed Cowshed. The 101 Club is a warts-and-all story of how Buxton changed the entire culture of a place that was more holiday camp than football club and includes: * Exclusive interviews with Town legends and forgotten heroes * Special reflections from Huddersfield MP Barry Sheerman * Interviews with so-called `Wags' * Fans' perspectives * The view from behind-the-scenes * Never-seen-before photographs * Absorbing match reports * Essential facts and figures Not only does The 101 Club re-live the highs and lows of football through the eyes of Buxton and his players, it also provides a rare insight into the lives of lower-league footballers and loved ones before Sky Sports money revolutionised the sport. It is essential reading for anyone who cares about Huddersfield and Huddersfield Town.

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Book Synopsis*Middlesbrough Memories - Scores of candid interviews illuminate Boro's proud history * Boro legends - From Lindy Delapenha and Graeme Souness to Juninho and Gareth Southgate, heroes reflect on their Boro days. * Bossing the game - Illustrious managers speak out on life in dugout * Captain Marvels - Inspirational skippers on leading from the front * The Road to Glory - The inside story of Boro's Carling Cup success * Small Town in Europe - the unforgettable march to Uefa Cup final * Heroic failure - detailed account of heartbreaking 1996-97 season * Back from the brink - the battle for survival in the mid-80s * Life behind the scenes - as told by unsung heroes. * Young guns - A celebration of the Academy's astonishing success * A club in transition - From Ayresome Park to the Riverside * Match for anyone - the stories behind Boro's biggest ever games * Unseen photographs from players, club and local media archives * Political and social landscape - Teesside's former mayor Ray Mallon on wider context as club prospers in face of economic recession.

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Book SynopsisIn two years, Wales went from Home International wooden spoon holders four times running to 1976 European Football Championship quarter-finalists. The book provides the background to qualification, accounts of all matches, examination of the fallout from the campaign's controversial ending, and a 'Where are they now?' section. 30 images.Trade ReviewTrailing Clouds of Glory - Welsh football’s forgotten heroes of 1976 is an attempt to shine some light on a little-known slice of Welsh football history from the mid 1970s. It details the two-year period during which Wales went from ending up with the wooden spoon in the Home International tournament for four years in a row to being 1976 European quarter-finalists, within an ace of reaching the semi-finals of the continent's top international competition. Many remain oblivious to the feat of manager Mike Smith's squad, and with the passing of time their achievement becomes more distant and forgotten. For a country that has achieved so little on the field of play, why is this particular group not more celebrated? Nick Burnell attempts to put that right, having researched the topic meticulously in press archives and player and coach biographies, as well as personally interviewing many of the key figures on the team and coaching staff. The book includes background on the period before qualification started in 1974, a blow-by-blow account of all the matches involved (detailed by contemporary newspaper write-ups and the author’s own interviews with key figures in the campaign) and examination of the fallout from its controversial ending. It also incorporates a 'Where are they now?' angle, giving further details on the players involved. The book runs more or less chronologically, focusing primarily on the eight core qualifying games, but is also conceived as a respectful overview of the 1970s in Welsh football generally, and a somewhat irreverent look at what was happening around the sport. This is a glimpse back into a less complicated era, before the onset of 24-hour saturation coverage and millionaire journeymen players, when footballers looked to the future by doing their coaching badges or searching for local pubs that needed new landlords. It's a reminder of the players and people in and around the scene who restored pride in the Welsh football jersey and gave the football public of Wales a reason to believe. Squad members: Terry Yorath John Toshack Leighton James Leighton Phillips John ‘Josh’ Mahoney Arfon Griffiths Brian Flynn Alan Curtis Carl Harris Dave Roberts Dave Smallman Dai Davies Derek Showers Gary Sprake Gil Reece Joey Jones John Phillips John Roberts Les Cartwright Malcolm (Mal) Page Mike England Phil Roberts Rod Thomas -- Publisher: Y LolfaIn December 1958, my late uncle took me to my first game at the Vetch Field, Swansea. The opponents were Sheffield Wednesday, and the match was won 4-0 by the Swans. Six months earlier the Welsh football team, having qualified, albeit by default, because of a complicated situation regarding the participation of Israel, participated in the 1958 World Cup finals, played in Sweden. Wales eventually lost in the quarter finals to a goal by some unknown Brazilian, a 17-year-old youngster called Pelé. I, and most of the general public, I suspect, were unaware of this tournament, as indeed were the railway porters and ticket collectors at Swansea railway station who greeted Mel Charles and some of the other players on their return from Stockholm, thinking they were returning from a holiday! These were the days before the wall-to-wall coverage of football on SKY Sports. When Wales qualified for the 2016 UEFA Euro tournament, reaching its semi-final, the press and television largely reported that this was the first time Wales had qualified for any major tournament since 1958. They had been agonisingly close several times, only to fall at the final hurdle, missing crucial penalties or losing out on goal difference or in play-offs. However, in 1976 Wales enjoyed some real success when they topped their qualifying Euro group and earned a two-legged play-off with host nation Yugoslavia for a place in the finals, having seen off Austria, Hungary and Luxembourg, and winning five qualifying matches in succession. The team, managed by Englishman Mike Smith has not, according to the author of this book, received the recognition it deserves, and the purpose of this book is to acknowledge the considerable achievement of this talented squad, who finally bowed out of the tournament after a niggly second-leg draw at Cardiff, having lost the first leg in Zagreb. At Cardiff, Wales missed a penalty, hit the post, and had two goals disallowed, and succumbed to a dubious penalty kick awarded by a somewhat controversial East German referee. Had VAR (the video assistant referee) been in operation at that time, the result might well have been very different. This book is meticulously researched and is very well-written. It takes us back to an era when the Football Association of Wales was not the efficient organisation it is today. This was also the era when League managers held more sway, and would constantly refuse to release players to play for their country. The introduction of the ‘international break’ has largely ended that practice. This was the period when the English FA refused to play our national anthem at Wembley, when hooliganism was rife, when our playing stadia were grim and attendances low, and when rugby reigned supreme in Wales. However, the contribution made by Mike Smith in laying the foundations of the current international set-up cannot be underestimated and was described by Dai Davies, the Welsh goalkeeper, as ‘revolutionary’. Under the guidance of this graduate PE teacher, the Welsh team that performed so well in 1974–76 in reaching the latter stages of a major tournament included a number of players who remain household names – players such as John Toshack, Terry Yorath, John Mahoney and the mercurial Leighton James. The achievement was even more remarkable when considered that England failed to qualify. As an innovator and excellent man-manager, Smith moulded his motley squad into a formidable team, which included for the first time a number of so-called Anglos, who had been drafted in because of a rule change allowing English-born players with a Welsh parent to be eligible to represent Wales. This gave the squad greater depth with the addition of personnel such as Ian Evans and Dave Roberts. The narrative also gives us a flavour of other events during this period so as to place all matches in their historical context. This aspect deals with such issues as broadcasting, fashion, politics and pop music, which adds an interesting and valuable dimension to the book. With Wales having qualified for the 2020 Euro tournament as runners-up in a group which included familiar opponents from 1976 such as Croatia (from the former Yugoslavia) and Hungary, there is a little feeling of déjà vu. This was no mean achievement which surely owes much to the foundations so carefully laid by Mike Smith. He and the 1976 team are all deserving of this volume which all Welsh football fans will enjoy, whilst looking forward to the exciting challenge of our next Euro finals in June 2020. -- Richard E. Huws @ www.gwales.comTable of ContentsForeword Author acknowledgements Introduction 1 Bowen nowhere 2 As straightforward and uncomplicated as his own name 3 The quiet revolution 4 Belt up, you baby! 5 See Budapest and Dai 6 Passport to success? 7 The team to beat 8 A day at the Racecourse 9 100 years and coasting 10 40-Second Street 11 Arsenal line up Smith 12 Ninian opinion 13 One team qualified and one team didn’t Notes Bibliography

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Book SynopsisRyan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's TV series about their shock buyout of Wrexham AFC has propelled the team to unimaginable new popularity. Lifelong fan Peter Read looks at his own obsessive support, the club's history, and developments over the first two seasons under the Hollywood stars.

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Book SynopsisAre you a Sunday League superstar? Do you still think you've got what it takes to make it to the top? In Football: Play Like A Pro we've got everything you need to play like your footballing heroes. Illuminating interviews with some of the game's biggest names - both past and present. Workout tutorials, nutritional advice and a look at the best gear and equipment available to you. Fascinating in-depth features on preseason training camps, the importance of a good night's sleep and the five-a-side league that aims to help players lose weight and get fit. Workouts for burning fat and building muscle - Clear instructions and images demonstrate the correct form and help you to target specific muscle groups and work on different in-game situations. We also bring you wonderfully illustrated guides to working out in the winter and on rainy days, while there's also loads of essential advice on everything from in-game psychology and fitness equipment to eating the right foods to fuel your body.

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Follow the Celtic journey through the club’s evolution from its beginnings via a formally constituted meeting in St. Mary’s church hall in East Rose Street, Calton, Glasgow, by Irish Marist Brother Walfrid on 6 November 1887 to the club that became the kings of Europe and the team that has never been relegated from the Scottish Premiership.

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the Sunday Times Football Book of the Year 2022 'A forensic insight into how our football academies operate. Every angle covered by a splendid author' - Daniel Taylor, The Athletic With unparalleled behind-the-scenes access to academies at all levels of English football, The Dream Factory: Inside the Make-or-Break World of Football’s Academies is a journey deep into the heart of youth football, revealing in gripping detail how home-grown Premier League stars such as Marcus Rashford and Trent Alexander-Arnold are created, and at what cost. The Dream Factory introduces a rich array of characters – players, coaches, directors – behind talent production lines at several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Liverpool and Manchester City, zooming in on the stories of Alexander-Arnold’s unique development, how Rashford’s sense of social responsibility was nurtured, and how Phil Foden has become a beacon to City’s young hopefuls.Trade Review'A forensic insight into how our football academies operate. Every angle covered by a splendid author' -- Daniel Taylor * The Athletic *'What a book: Ryan Baldi has the reader living the blood, sweat, tears, triumph and despair of chasing the ultimate dream of making it' -- Jamie Jackson * The Guardian *'An in-depth look at the youth game, in conversation with the people who know it best. Baldi has gone deeper than anyone before to understand what really goes on inside academies' -- Adam Bate * Sky Sports *'The Dream Factory goes beyond the glamour and gives a real insight into how football works. There are very few fairy tales. It is an important book for anyone who cares about the game and a must-read for any parent whose child dreams of being a star' -- Tony Evans * The Independent *'Ryan Baldi's The Dream Factory is an engrossing, gripping look into the underworld of academies. This book should be read by every coach, player, parent, and anyone who loves football and cares about the exploitation and capitalism rampant in these institutions. The next generation deserves better' -- Mirin Fader * The Ringer *'This is one of the most holistic books on academy football I've ever read. It is all here, the scenery, emotion and triumphs of our youth game, delivered in the craftsman fashion that Ryan Baldi is now rightly known for' -- Daniel Fieldsend, author of The European Game: The Secrets of European Football Success'Tells a story never told before in quite such forensic detail, full of glory and heartache. Exhaustive, comprehensive and detailed' -- John Nicholson, author of Can We Have Our Football Back?

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Book SynopsisAberdeen have competed on the European stage since season 1967/68 and have enjoyed some epic encounters along the way, culminating in the club’s greatest ever victory – beating Real Madrid 2–1 in the 1983 Cup Winner's Cup final. Ally Begg charts a path through Aberdeen's storied history in Europe, vividly brining to life the most interesting, exciting, and unforgettable games by interviewing players from Aberdeen and their rivals and augmenting them with his own richly rendered memories. Aberdeen European Nights takes the reader on a nostalgic romp around the continent, crossing beyond the Iron Curtain and building a fortress at home at Pittodrie. Humorous, quirky and insightful, it is the perfect book for Aberdeen fans, young and old.

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Book SynopsisIn February 2012, Rangers faced an uncertain future and fans feared for their club as a Scottish institution was plunged into crisis. Just months later, Rangers would start out on what those supporters christened 'The Journey' as they attempted to make their way back to the top of the game from the Third Division. The years that followed were amongst the most tumultuous and controversial in the club's illustrious history as financial results became as important and noteworthy as football ones. Through it all, Rangers supporters followed near and far. In May 2021, Rangers completed their journey as Steven Gerrard's side were crowned Premiership champions. Going for 55 tells the story of the campaign, giving insight and offering analysis into how Gerrard revolutionised the club and restored Rangers to their place at the top of Scottish football. With interviews from the money men who funded the rebuilding job, the staff and players that made the dream a reality and those in the press that saw history being made, this is a sporting tale like no other.

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Book SynopsisFrom is genesis as Newton Heath LYR Football Club founded in 1878 all the way to the global sporting and commercial superpower that it is today, this is the history of Manchester United Football Club as you have never seen it before. Lifelong Red Devils’ fan Neville Moir has distilled this extraordinary history into an amusing, fascinating and easy to read anthology. This entertaining volume is an instructive, if sometimes irreverent – but always affectionate – guide to some of the groundbreaking firsts, controversies, innovations, characters, achievements and disasters that have shaped one the greatest sporting institutions on the planet. Whether an expert or a novice, this compendium is perfect for all Man United fans, young and old, around the world.

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Book SynopsisThere are two kinds of people in this world. Those who insist that football is just a game, and those who know better. Take the April 1967 clash between England and Scotland. Wounded by their biggest rivals winning the World Cup just nine months earlier, Bobby Brown's Scots travelled to Wembley on the mother of all missions. Win and they would take a huge step towards qualifying for the 1968 European Championship, end England’s formidable 19-game unbeaten streak, and, best of all, put Sir Alf Ramsey’s men firmly back in their box. Lose? Well, that was just unthinkable. Meanwhile, off the pitch, the winds of change were billowing through Scotland. Nationalism, long confined to the margins of British politics, was starting to penetrate the mainstream, gaining both traction and influence. Was England’s World Cup victory a defining moment in the Scottish independence movement? Or did it consign Scotland to successive generations of myopic underachievement? Michael McEwan, author of The Ghosts of Cathkin Park, returns to 1967 to explore a crucial ninety minutes in the rebirth of a nation. Trade Review'Written with the quality and flair Wembley '67 deserves. Brilliantly captures Scotland's magical day' -- Michael Grant * The Times *'A meticulously researched, crisply-written work of elegant storytelling' -- Daniel Gray * Nutmeg *'Wonderful sports writing. A glorious retelling of an imperious age, when Scotland ruled the world, kind of' -- Tom English * BBC Sport *'The definitive account of when we were kings, told with a swagger and style that befits those Wembley heroes' -- Hugh MacDonald'Superbly and entertainingly researched - and so much more than just an account of a famous Scottish victory' -- Dougie Donnelly

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Book SynopsisA must-read biography of one of the greatest football managers of all time. Sir Alex Ferguson CBE, born 31 December 1941, is a former Scottish football player and was manager of Manchester United from 1986 to 2013. During his 26 years in charge of United, he won more trophies than any other manager in the history of football. Packed with nearly 80 entertaining and exclusive interviews from those who know Ferguson best – friends, colleagues, associates and those who worked with him at both Aberdeen and Manchester United share their unique insight into the innermost secrets of Ferguson’s fascinating life and hugely successful career.

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Book SynopsisLifelong Brentford FC fan Jonathan Burchill draws from contemporaneous resources to present a unique history of Brentford through season-by-season reviews of the events at Griffin Park.

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Book SynopsisSir Alex Ferguson is arguably Britain's greatest ever football manager. In the year that he celebrates his 80th birthday, this new book from experienced journalist and author John Richardson will offer an original insight into what makes the Scot tick, his unique way of operating and how his genius changed the footballing landscape.

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Book SynopsisMariner is Plymouth Argyle legend, an FA Cup and UEFA Cup winner with Ipswich Town, a scorer for England at the World Cup and a former Arsenal and Portsmouth striker. A true front man in every sense - talented, brave and fearless - but his toughest fight was yet to come when he was diagnosed with brain cancer in October 2020. This is his story.

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Book SynopsisA compelling, relevant and dramatic life story from the front line of the modern game. Paul Davis's story takes us on a journey through almost 50 years at the very top in football: a leading player's take on an extraordinary and memorable period in Arsenal's history, during which the club and football changed radically and forever around him. Davis won titles and cups with Arsenal but, to do so, had to battle against career-threatening injuries and to handle the frustrations and injustices of the worst kinds of club and dressing room politics. His subsequent experiences as a coach and as a coach-developer have been just as challenging, just as emotionally charged, and just as significant. It's a life story worth the telling, that's for sure. Arsenal And After - An Education offers more than just a fascinating football story. Paul's mum, Ruby, arrived in England from Jamaica in the late 1950s, as part of the Windrush generation. She brought up Paul and his sister, Sandra, on her own, on a council estate in Stockwell, South London. Much of the Davis family history was - and still is - a mystery to Paul, who never knew or knew anything about his father. He was already a senior player at Arsenal before he discovered he had siblings: the three children Ruby had left behind in Kingston when she'd struck out for a new life in England, thirty years before. As a teenager, Davis was often the only black player wearing Arsenal colours. As often as not, he'd be the only black player on the pitch. With that came challenges: racism in football and beyond in the early 1980s was undiluted and unapologetic. The fight for recognition - for opportunity and for change - has been part of the Davis story ever since. His own emotional experiences are the lens through which he now looks back on everything he's achieved as a player, as a coach and as an educator.

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Book SynopsisNEVER in the history of the game has one life brought both joy and tragedy in such huge measures. Duncan Edwards was the jewel in the crown of the Busby Babes, an all-time legend at just 21, who was denied the chance to achieve even greater footballing success by the Munich Air Disaster in 1958. This fascinating new biography, with support from friends and relatives, includes rare and unseen pictures and tells the story of the boy who left his home in Dudley to earn his Manchester United debut at the age of 16 – and made such an impression that he was an England international at 18. The most forensic account of this remarkable life and career includes new interviews, as well as contributions from icons of United and the wider English game – plus quotes from Edwards himself. He packed so much into a short career, collecting 18 caps, winning the First Division title twice, and helping Matt Busby’s team take their first steps in European football, but it was an all-round game that had no weakness that impressed most. Team-mate Bobby Charlton summed Edwards up best: “Sentiment can throw a man’s judgement out of perspective. Yet it is not the case with him. A few are great, and deserve respect. But Duncan Edwards was the greatest.” ‘Eternal’ is the complete story of an extraordinary footballer, whose influence on Manchester United and the success that followed can still be felt today.

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Book SynopsisManchester United enjoyed their greatest generation under Sir Alex Ferguson. The rulebook on domestic domination was rewritten as the club became the most successful in British football history. For the first time, one of Ferguson's closest aides lifts the lid on the inner workings at Carrington, as Rene Meulensteen, one of the game's greatest minds, shares all the stories and secrets that contributed and illuminated the most glittering managerial era in football history. Meulensteen's story begins in a provincial region of Holland; a student of the game, Rene explains how he fought through red tape and bureaucracy to establish himself as a coach with principles he firmly believed in, and how those visionary methods saw him land a remarkable position at the world's biggest club, overseeing the technical development of their most precious department - the youth system. Meulensteen talks about working with stars like Roy Keane, Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs, before he was called to work with the first team on a more permanent basis. There, he enjoyed notable contributions, transforming Cristiano Ronaldo into a goal monster and featuring heavily in the move that brought Robin van Persie to Old Trafford. From being Ferguson's right-hand man to going out on his own, Meulensteen explains his philosophy in an inspiring and accessible way. Moreover, this autobiography is a compelling and addictive love-letter to the fabric of everything Manchester United stands for. The exploration and explanation of United's style of play will thrill supporters and stun analysts, as one of the sport's greatest minds finally shares his fascinating journey in football.

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Book SynopsisIn a footballing career spanning 21 years, Tony Gale played over 720 games on almost every league pitch across the four divisions. He is one of only 16 players in the UK to have played over 300 games for two teams and one of a handful to be part of a Premier League winning side. As a pundit he's commentated on over 3,000 live games for the likes of Sky and Capital Gold, covering virtually every major football competition in his inimitable light hearted manner. Gale made his first team debut at Fulham Football Club at the ripe age of 16, before being made captain at 18. Playing alongside a golden era of greats, the anecdotes which Gale recounts while playing alongside George Best, Bobby Moore and Rodney Marsh are a nostalgic masterclass. Moving to West Ham for the next decade, the Pimlico born defender was part of the iconic 'Boys of 86' squad, which broke 17 records that year, 16 of which are still unbeaten. Exiting at his lowest point from West Ham in 1994, with two weeks to go before the new season, Gale was in effect homeless and jobless in footballing terms. That however all changed when he landed a place at Blackburn Rovers. Sir Kenny Dalglish recalled the decision to include 35-year-old Gale into the squad of 94/95. "His experience was a big help and the positive impact he made in the dressing room was excellent. He made his contribution to us winning the league, same as everybody on that team." Void of any media training, Gale's move into radio and television commentary in the late 90's was as natural as kicking a ball. In the words of Chris Kamara, "The one thing that stayed with Galey is that dressing room humour, which you all miss when you stop playing football. The one liners, the windups. Galey brought them from the dressing room and into real life."

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Book SynopsisThe History of the Women?s World Cup is a celebration of women?s soccer?s most prestigious tournament. In the UK, crowds and TV viewing figures are at record levels and top players have become household names. The Women?s World Cup 2023 in Australia and New Zealand will be the biggest, most eagerly anticipated and watched competition in it?s history. This book explains the growth of the women?s game and the origins of the Women?s World Cup. Illustrated with fabulous colour photographs, it tells the story of each tournament, highlighting key moments, great goals and providing an in- depth account of every final. It recalls the great teams and the legendary players who emerged, including Marta, Birgit Prinz, Megan Rapinoe and Lucy Bronze. The book also previews in detail the 2023 World Cup. It focuses on each of the venues and features the 32 competing teams, their groups and possible route to the final. It also picks out the potential stars of the finals, from Australia?s Sam Kerr and Belgium?s Tessa Wullaert to Germany?s Lea Schüller and England?s Ella Toone, in a comprehensive guide to the global showpiece of women?s football.

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Book SynopsisFULLY REVISED AND UPDATED 'The finest Fergie book of them all' – Tom English, BBC Sport When Sir Alex Ferguson retired at the end of the 2013 season he was the most successful football manager Britain had ever seen, having won twice as many trophies as his nearest rival. But that success had not come easily. Thirty-five years previously he had arrived at the rain-swept training ground at Aberdeen F.C. as the recently sacked manager of St Mirren. Already a divisive figure, this Alex Ferguson came with a reputation for trouble and a lot still to prove. Not for nothing, many thought he was a risky choice. Fergie Rises returns to a time when Ferguson was lucky to get Aberdeen, not the other way around. It's the story of an eight-year revolution that saw the Dons and their ambitious young manager knock the Old Firm off their perch, taste victory in Europe for the first time, and electrify Scottish football. When Ferguson finally left the club for Manchester United, in 1986, fans and rivals were unanimous in believing he had engineered one of the most astonishing upheavals in the game’s history. The author also examines the personal tragedies Ferguson overcame – the deaths of his father and his mentor Jock Stein – and the rivalries, setbacks and triumphs that shaped a sporting genius. 'A masterful retelling of how Ferguson was "made" at Aberdeen' – Alan Pattullo, The ScotsmanTrade Review‘It might be a familiar story – of course it is – but this book brings it alive with fresh interviews, rich in detail and anecdote. It is a brilliant read. A must for all Dandies' -- Graham Spiers * The Times *'The finest Fergie book of them all. It takes you to the heart of the magnificent absurdity of Aberdeen being kings of Europe' -- Tom English * BBC Sport *'The glut of books on Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United Revolution is exactly why this one is so interesting. A neat idea by an author whose account is superbly written' * The Scotsman 'Best Scottish sports reads' *'This is a book that takes the evidence from a series of witnesses to burgeoning genius. The testimonies are stunning, insightful, sometimes bitter, mostly awed and regularly funny' * The Herald *'Having interviewed many of those under Fergie’s Pittodrie stewardship, he brings much fresh insight into a period covered too briefly in his autobiography' * FourFourTwo *'The most fascinating part of Alex Ferguson’s career is his eight years taking Aberdeen from no-hopers to beating Real Madrid in a European Final. All the greatest stories have a beginning and this is it' * Shortlist *'An excellent new tome' -- Stephen McGowan * Scottish Daily Mail *'A masterful re-telling of how Ferguson was "made" at Aberdeen' -- Alan Pattullo * The Scotsman *'It is Grant's own passion that permeates and defines Fergie Rises and makes it the book that all of us would have loved to have written' -- David Innes * Aberdeen Voice *'Grant has painted a vivid tableau of a bygone age on a giant-sized canvas' -- Neil Drysdale * STV Aberdeen *'Such a fantastic book. A great story in itself as well as brilliant insight into Sir Alex and his then still evolving management style. Highly recommended' * Sports Book Reviews *

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Book SynopsisMatthew Jansen is an English former professional footballer who played as a striker and a manager. He started his career with hometown club Carlisle United, and also played for Crystal Palace, Blackburn Rovers and Bolton Wanderers as well as a loan spell with Coventry City.

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