Pitch Publishing

Book SynopsisAs Marcelo Bielsa's interpreter, Salim Lamrani was his right-hand man throughout his first season in charge of Leeds United. As a privileged witness to that remarkable 2018/19 campaign, Lamrani tells the inside story of how the club came within a hair's breadth of returning to the Premier League before winning promotion in the very next season to end a 16-year exile. Lamrani lays bare the secrets behind Bielsa's methods, starting with the demands he makes in an intense pre-season, through to the Argentinian tactician's unwavering loyalty to a highly effective style of play - a style based on possession, collective coverage, rapid transitions, changes of tempo and constant attack. For him, beauty is non-negotiable. Thanks to Bielsa, the players of Leeds United were the actors in an unforgettable epic, which made an indelible mark on millions of supporters. Taking us match by match through Bielsa's first year in English football, Lamrani weaves a fascinating narrative and paints an intimate portrait of a unique football genius.

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Book SynopsisBlood, Brawn, Brains and Broken Noses explores the evolution of pugilism, better known as boxing, from its origins in Ancient Greece and Rome to the present day. In England, pugilism became a popular form of entertainment, leading to a golden age, which the book covers in detail along with the careers of five champion pugilists. But the sport hit a major hitch when bare-knuckle pugilism clashed with Victorian morals, and it was superseded by gloved boxing. Afterwards, bare-knuckle boxing went underground and was practised clandestinely and seen only by a select few. The book examines the thoughts of ancient philosophers to explain why pugilism became part of British culture. Nineteenth-century philosophies such as Social Darwinism, Muscular Christianity and Rational Recreation are also explored along with how Rational Recreation influences boxing today. What are the sociological factors that motivate people to take up boxing? And how can the sport prevent societal ills? Blood, Brawn, Brains and Broken Noses holds the answers.

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Book SynopsisA Nation Again is the chaotic tale of the Scotland men's team's return to a major tournament after more than 20 years in the wilderness. Ten major tournaments had come and gone for Scotland since they reached France '98, but the birth of UEFA's Nations League offered a new route to glory. In early 2018, after a long search for Gordon Strachan's replacement, Alex McLeish became manager for a second time. But despite successfully navigating the Nations League group stage, it wasn't plain sailing, and his tenure ended after a shocking defeat at the start of Euro 2020 qualifying. With a play-off semi-final on the horizon, the Scottish FA turned to Steve Clarke, who took on the challenge of inspiring a team rooted in failure, creating a band-of-brothers mentality and figuring out how to organise this incredibly talented group of players. From a couple of the lowest lows came the highest high. With exclusive memories of those who were part of the journey, this is the story of how Scotland finally became a nation again.Trade Review"A fascinating insight into a complex journey that took Scotland out of the wilderness, by those who witnessed it first hand." * Famous Tartan Army Magazine *

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Book SynopsisUnsung offers an illuminating insight behind the scenes of professional sport, looking beyond the headlines and behind the athletes to introduce and celebrate sport's unheralded heroes. A sporting anthology of the unheard, the unsaid and the unusual, Unsung shines a rare spotlight on the integral men and women in the shadows, interwoven into the fabric of sport. Find out how F1 mechanics fine-tune the finest margin in sport. Meet the trigger-happy athletics starters who can break as many dreams as they make. Hear from the cycling moto pilots whose job it is to keep up, but keep out of the way. And learn how snowmaking scientists go to war with Mother Nature at every Winter Olympics. While its biggest stars and household names enjoy the glory, tucked away amidst sport's small print and voiceless under its fanfare is a band of unsung heroes rarely acknowledged, let alone championed. These are their stories, told over 12 standalone chapters. Unsung introduces the sports stars you don't know, telling the stories you can't miss.

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Book SynopsisIn 1960, at the start of a tumultuous decade that saw major global change, the Intercontinental Cup was born. For the first time, this ambitious annual cup crowned a world club champion, pitting the kings of the two great footballing continents - Europe and South America - against each other. In an era before money ruined the global balance of football, neither dominated. From the Estadio Centenario and the Maracana, to Old Trafford and the San Siro, the most iconic stadia in world football hosted Intercontinental Cup games. The star players of their respective generations participated - from Puskas and Di Stefano in the inaugural 1960 edition, to legends such as Pele, Ronaldo, Zico and van Basten. When Two Worlds Collide charts the Intercontinental Cup's colourful 44-year history, from its trailblazing inception to 2004 when the last ball was kicked in Yokohama. The controversial clashes of the late 1960s, the cup's decline in the 70s and the pivotal 1980 rebirth in Japan are all covered.

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Book SynopsisKits are cultural touchstones that tell us more about our club, ourselves and the beautiful game's custodians than we often realise. The colours, crests, designs and prices show what makes the game - and us - tick. Kit and Caboodle searches out the stories that our shirts tell us about our support and the society we accept or try to rebel against. The book alternates short, shirt stories with a deeper dive into themes of ethics, philanthropy and dumb decision making. We listen to MP Tracey Crouch as she tells us about her Fan Led Review and how shirts show the progress being made to a more equitable football ecosystem. Shirts also illustrate the rise and mutation of gambling from pools to NFTs and cryptocurrencies, attitudes to the LGBTQ+ community, how clubs like St Pauli are determined to be driven by their values and why Messi's transfer to PSG Qatar can never be financed by shirt sales. Unlike anything else we wear, our club shirts envelop us in the history of our team and give us a hint of the future.

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Book SynopsisCity of Stars: The Controversial Story of Paris Saint-Germain is a detailed history of Europe's youngest super club, from their time as a small Parisian side in French football's Second Division to a global powerhouse that epitomises modern football. After many highs and lows and two major takeovers in the 1990s and 2010s, PSG have been catapulted to the forefront of world football thanks to Qatari billions and look set to remain a major force for years to come. But a deep dive into their history shows a club of tradition, loyal fans and remarkable players that preceded the Qatari era. However, controversy seems to follow the club in one guise or another, whether it be violence from Ultras, business dealings from their owners or even being a title challenger affected by a match-fixing scandal. Paris Saint-Germain's history is rich, vibrant, polarising but never dull.

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Book SynopsisIn 1973-74, Britain was in meltdown. The Arab-Israeli War had sent energy prices soaring. Petrol was scarce. Offices were limited to a temperature of 17C and power cuts were frequent. A three-day working week came in as inflation took hold and miners and other workers went on strike. The northern mill town of Rochdale suffered more than most. Its cotton industry was on shut-down in the face of cheap imports, and the football team was a mirror image of the town - tired, defeated, clinging to life. The Rochdale team of 1973-74 are considered the worst to play in the Football League. They finished bottom of the third division, winning just twice in 46 league matches. They closed the season with a 22-game winless run and played one home match in front of the lowest-ever post-war crowd. That season 32 players played for the team, many of them drafted in from amateur or Sunday league clubs. The Longest Winter is as much a piece of forensic social history as it is a sports book. It evokes the smells, textures and moods of the early 1970s.

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Book SynopsisPower & Glory is a visual homage to the NFL, which takes us on a hard-hitting journey from the pre-Super Bowl era to the present day. Using stunning images, it's a celebration of a uniquely American sporting culture, featuring the greatest stars, teams, games and stadiums. From Terry Bradshaw to Tom Brady, Jim Brown to Joe Montana, from the Green Bay Packers who won the first ever Super Bowl to Aaron Rodgers winning the Super Bowl for Green Bay decades later, it covers all 32 teams that have competed in the NFL. Whether the photos are from the era of muddy pitches or modern-day indoor arenas, Power & Glory projects a physicality and toughness that defines the NFL's players. From the harshness of playing the game in freezing and wet conditions to the glamour and pageantry of the Super Bowl, this eye-catching photographic collection showcases the game in all its glory. Alongside these beautiful and breathtaking images are stats, records and write-ups on the teams that bring the NFL's rich history to life.

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Book SynopsisWhen Diego Simeone entered the gates of Atletico Madrid for the third time in his career, he was the club's 17th coach in 15 years. Once a key player with the Rojiblancos, he had helped them lift the title in 1995/96. That heady moment was now a distant memory, as the side had scarcely won any silverware in the last 15 years. A mid-table team at best, having faced relegation, the red side of Madrid had fallen from the top step of Spanish football, with their fans wondering when they might once more celebrate a long run of success at the foot of the Neptune Fountain - a centrepiece for Atleti celebrations. Made in Argentina, Mastered in Madrid: How Diego Simeone Awakened a Sleeping Giant explores the tactics of the charismatic 'El Cholo', who has turned heads with his side's gritty, dogged style of play and built a team that embodies its people and culture. Discover how Simeone has turned things around for Atletico Madrid and helped write a major chapter in the club's illustrious history.

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Book SynopsisThe Special Relationship: The History of American Football in the United Kingdom charts the arrival and development of gridiron football on this side of the Atlantic. This comprehensive account presents the story across three key sections, outlining how and why the sport became so popular in Britain - from the first match at Crystal Palace back in 1910 to the birth of the incredibly popular International Series, which has become a permanent fixture in the NFL regular season. It covers every match played in London from 2007 to 2021, with anecdotes intertwined throughout to bring the deeper NFL history, its greatest players and franchises to life. The book also tells the unique tales of the British players who have played in the NFL, with each player providing special insight into their journey from Britain to the National Football League. The Special Relationship is the captivating story of how the sport arrived on the doorstep of America's great allies - and survived to become the ever-growing presence it is today.

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Book SynopsisWhat happens when a football club ups sticks and leaves its traditional home for pastures new? What replaces the terraces, stands and floodlights that tower above old town centres and terraced streets? How does football relate to the new landscapes that the clubs head to? What happens when football leaves home? When the Circus Leaves Town: What Happens When Football Leaves Home explores the impact of the ruptures created when clubs and supporters wave goodbye to their homes. It examines disruption to matchday routines, erasure of geographic memories and the difficulties in repairing these, and considers whether such moves have been for better or worse. Writer Dave Proudlove walks the streets of towns and cities across the country visiting housing estates, retail parks and shiny new stadiums. He talks to those involved with the relocation of football clubs - club officials, developers, politicians, fans - to understand the reasons behind the upheaval, and to bring us the full story of what happens when football leaves home.Trade Review"A book I recently read and loved is... When the Circus Leaves Town by David Proudlove, a travelogue about the closure of traditional football grounds in England and Wales. Underneath the ostensible subject it's a wonderfully intricate and humane history of the last 30 years of so of British civic life, which puts to shame a thousand journalistic commentaries on the "Red Wall", "Brexit Britain", etc." -- Alex Niven * The Independent *

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Book SynopsisBlood on the Crossbar: The Dictatorship's World Cup is the story of the most controversial football World Cup of all time. When Argentina both hosted and won the World Cup in 1978, just two years after the coup d'etat that ousted Isabel Per n, it was against the backdrop of a brutal military dictatorship in the country. Under the leadership of General Jorge Videla, up to 30,000 citizens, categorised as subversives, 'disappeared'. Dogged by allegations of bribery, coercion and football's first failed drugs test, this is the story of Argentina's maiden World Cup triumph and the controversy that simmered behind it. This isn't exclusively a tale of footballers and generals, and the risks they took to succeed. It's a story of the people: Argentinean exiles, Parisian students, brave journalists, the marching mothers of Plaza de Mayo and their missing children - and Dutch stand-up comedians leading international boycotts from thousands of miles away.

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Book SynopsisLeeds United Memorabilia is a captivating photographic history of artefacts and paraphernalia connected with the famous club and its 100-plus-year history.Leeds United did not create football collectibles and souvenirs but they were one of the main drivers of the industry, especially in the 1960s and 70s when Don Revie rejuvenated the club and put them on the map of world club football. Together with well-known collector and historian Neil Barker, author Robert Endeacott brings the artefacts to life with fascinating information and entertaining anecdotes.Filled with eye-catching photos of rare collectibles, the book features contributions and interviews from major collectors like Chris Miller, David Kirkby, Ben Hunt, Pete Hopton, Mark Whelan and David Gaertner. There''s also a foreword by renowned sports artist and raconteur Paul ''The Beaver'' Trevillion, who is an integral part of the history of Leeds United memorabilia.Leeds fans of all a

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Book SynopsisThe Great Uncrowned: Football's Most Celebrated Losers is the story of football's ultimate bridesmaids, those clubs that were good enough to win the major prizes but, for various reasons, didn't. In an age when victory is all too often viewed as the be all and end all, this book celebrates the teams that were beaten by bad luck, limited resources or an outstanding set of players. From early 20th-century runners-up from Lancashire and Wales to flamboyant teams from Europe and South America, near-misses can be found anywhere in the world. Some have been forgotten, pushed aside by the elitist nature of modern football. Others have passed into history and are rarely revisited. As well as reviving the exploits of great players and impressive teams, The Great Uncrowned also provides context around the development and social position of each side and asks if football needs a structure that provides more winners and fewer losers.

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Book SynopsisFootball brings joy to people across the world, and it evokes memories and nostalgia about past glories and events. When a football club folds, these memories and nostalgic moments are often all that is left. Forgotten Football Clubs uncovers the stories of clubs that have vanished, revealing their history, their successes and their ultimate failures. Some of the clubs were founded in the 19th century and lived for more than 100 years, while others only lasted a few years, but each one has an interesting backstory. Author Philip O'Rourke interviewed fans and experts from the teams' respective countries to find out why they disappeared and how it happened. Along the way, he analyses their results, what honours they won and casts a spotlight on their key players, managers and any controversies. The book unearths a diverse range of tales, transporting us from Asia to South America and from Europe to Africa. With such an eclectic mix, these are stories for football fans young and old.Trade Review"A huge amount of research has gone into the book… For anyone wanting to delve into the history of all manner of lesser-known 'forgotten' clubs from across the world, this is a good starting point that should pique their interest." * On Magazine *

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Book SynopsisFor more than 50 years the Formula Ford Festival has been the proving ground for ambitious racing drivers looking to make their mark. The Brands Hatch meeting was where the likes of Johnny Herbert, Damon Hill and Jenson Button first made their names, while both Michael Schumacher and Nigel Mansell never made it out of their heats. Now a club meeting, in its heyday the Festival was one of the UK's biggest motor sport events, drawing tens of thousands of spectators, and enjoying more than a decade of prime coverage on the BBC's Grandstand. From humble beginnings at a cold Snetterton, the move to Brands Hatch, the peak of the 1980s followed by a gentle decline, this book tells the story of the Festival. Drawing on exclusive contributions from some of the event's legends and prestigious alumni, it covers all the on-track action together with off-track intrigue and controversies.

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Book SynopsisAnatomy of a Genius is a tactical breakdown of Lionel Messi's playing career at FC Barcelona. Despite spending his whole career with the club, the Argentine genius had to adapt and improve his game to become the foundation of Barca's modern success. This book explores his journey - from emerging as a talented prodigy to becoming the best player on the planet - through an enthralling narrative, in-depth tactics and key statistics. A great deal has been written already about the famous boy from Rosario, as his story has been told time and again by journalists and renowned authors. Anatomy of a Genius digs deeper to uncover things we don't already know, delving into stats and tactics to reveal the how and why behind one of the world's greatest athletes and his phenomenal career.

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Book SynopsisSixtythree, Sixtyfour takes an enthralling, in-depth look at one of the greatest transformations in football, as Don Revie moulded a Leeds United side teetering on the brink of relegation to Division Three into one of the most feared teams in Europe. Revie had arrived at Leeds in November 1958, on the back of an illustrious playing career with Leicester City, Hull City, Manchester City and Sunderland. In March 1961, he was appointed player-manager at Leeds before quickly taking over the reins as full-time gaffer. He fashioned a team of experience and untested teenagers that quickly developed into a force to be reckoned with. Sixtythree, Sixtyfour uncovers the truth behind the 'Dirty Leeds' tag that has prevailed for almost 60 years. Gleaned from the private collections of photos, telegrams and scrapbooks of players, and the testimonies of Leeds and opposition fans, Gary Edwards presents an amazing account of one man's vision to turn a failing side into the club's greatest-ever team.

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Book SynopsisThe Life of Total Football tells the story of the origins, history and inspiration behind one of the purest and arguably most-entertaining styles of football in the history of the game.Total Football was the style of play made famous by both Johan Cruyff''s Ajax and the great Dutch international side of 1970s in which he starred... but its story starts a long way before then.The origins of Total Football lie in Scotland in the early 1900s as football was taking its first pioneering steps as a Great British export. Initially finessed in Europe, and in particular Hungary and Austria, as the popularity of football spread; before the style emerged and evolved in South America as the game took hold across the globe.With so many admirers throughout the history of the game, The Life of Total Football explains how it captured the hearts and minds of its most dedicated followers, its many iterations and incarnations, and ju

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Book SynopsisGot That Lovin’ Feelin’ is the enthralling story of Nottingham Forest’s emotional return to the Premier League under Steve Cooper in 2022. It charts the promotions, relegations, financial problems and missed opportunities that made Forest’s journey back to the big time such a compelling one. Cooper’s side’s thrilling and unexpected promotion campaign put an end to 23 years outside the top flight. In those lean times, Forest frequently became a byword for decline on the pitch and madness in the boardroom. The book features opinions and insights from those who worked on the pitch, in the dugout and in the corridors of power. It also tells the story of Forest’s first season back in the big time, through the eyes of fans, players and pundits – all the while exploring what it means to be connected to this grand, historic and pioneering club. From Frank Clark’s European dreamers to Cooper’s play-off winners, this is Forest’s roller-coaster ride of a story. Trade Review"Warren Turner's bright red book tells of the Forest journey from Frank Clark to Steve Cooper in order to secure top-flight football again after an absence of 23 years. There's background, backstories and key match reports as viewed 'through the eyes of fans, players and pundits'. In fact, there's a great picture of No.9 Taiwo Awoniyi scoring 'the winner against Arsenal to ensure another Premier League season for Nottingham Forest'. Pictures can speak volumes as do the words - a great, informative book!" -- Mark Watkins * Dare Radio *

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Book SynopsisWimbledon Football Club was founded in 1889, and from then until now it has had a history like no other in football. From being the only team to have won both the FA Cup and FA Amateur Cup, to having the club controversially snatched away from its fans, only for them to reform the club, and for AFC Wimbledon to rise again through the leagues and re-establish itself as a Football League side. Vinny Jones, John Fashanu and Dennis Wise ... the Crazy Gang of the 1980s was an intimidating team that used its physicality to overcome opponents, but it could play as well, under the leadership of Dave 'Harry' Bassett. When you dig deeper you realise there was more to this side than the sensationalist headlines. In AFC Wimbledon On This Day, you'll find facts and figures, famous games, managers and players who have made an indelible mark on the club's legacy. Even under the current guise of AFC Wimbledon, the team continues to write new chapters in its illustrious history.

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Book SynopsisA Season on the Med: Riviera Football in Italy and France (With a Trip to Athens for Stan) is a story of football where the sun always shines - with a difference. In the wake of Brexit, writer Alex Wade decamped to Menton, the last town on the Cote d'Azur. During a swim between France and Italy, he realised two things. An array of great football clubs - from Nice, Marseille and Monaco to Genoa, Sampdoria and Spezia - were on his doorstep on the French and Italian Rivieras. Plus his hero, Queens Park Rangers' talisman Stan Bowles, once played on the Med. Wade embarked on a journey of discovery to experience Riviera football over the 2021/22 season, with two questions in mind. Is football on the Med more laid-back, languid and amiable than elsewhere? And could he make it to Athens in a tribute to Bowles? Eloquently written with a blend of reportage, travelogue and memoir, A Season on the Med ends in Brumano, Italy, as Wade captures the spirit of Riviera football and confronts the meaning of heroism.Trade Review"Part travelogue, part memoir... an insight into the way football is played and watched in countries and leagues that we in Britain do not always pay much attention to... told in an engaging and charming style. It’s not too hard to imagine that you are being regaled over a chilled bottle (or three) of rosé, the Med sparkling in the low evening sun in the background." * Times Literary Supplement *

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Book SynopsisSuccess in elite football demands both mental and physical excellence. Players must make decisions at lightning speed, and execute those decisions with perfect technique, combined with an ultra-clear understanding of where others - their team-mates and their opponents - are at all times. In The Futsal Way, world-renowned futsal coach Sergio Gargelli and veteran writer Paul Challen make the case that today's elite football clubs require futsal coaches on their staff to take their teams to the next level - as many have already done. With photos, diagrams and clear explanations, they demonstrate how top-level coaches can use futsal to produce exceptional players in the 11-a-side game - as seen in the amazing technical ability of many Brazilian and Spanish players who grew up playing futsal. With a foreword by Euro 2020-winning manager Roberto Mancini, this book is a must for any team or coach looking to keep pace with modern training techniques and tactical developments. It combines in-depth instruction with real-life examples.

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Book SynopsisSixty Years of the World Cup is a personal, nostalgic, fun and frank reflection on the author's six-decade association with football's biggest showpiece. Brian Barwick journeyed just five miles to his first World Cup match during the iconic 1966 tournament held in England, but later travelled the globe witnessing first-hand some of football's greatest and most controversial moments. As a major national TV sport producer and executive, he was also responsible for how the tournament was broadcast to tens of millions of viewers on the BBC and ITV. A stint as CEO of the FA brought him the unique experience of being personally associated with the triumphs and tribulations of trying to win the World Cup. During his 60-year relationship with football's greatest prize, he witnessed many of the tournament's most famous matches, most gifted players and coaches, and iconic and controversial moments, meeting colourful personalities, making programmes that broke TV audience records and even helping an operatic aria to become a worldwide smash-hit!Trade Review"Sixty Years of the World Cup is Barwick’s story of his journey through that time and is packed with fascinating tales from a man who got closer to the action than most of us will ever get the chance to experience... If you have an interest in Global Football but also want to read some great personal anecdotes on the game at the very top level, Sixty Years of the World Cup is definitely the book for you." * Read the League *

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Book SynopsisPower Players: Football in Propaganda, War and Revolution takes a fascinating look at the ugly side of the beautiful game. Football is increasingly becoming an instrument of political power. Dictators in the Middle East brutally bring players into line and present themselves in the stands as fathers of the people. In Syria, stadiums were used as military bases and internment camps. But football is often also directed against the state. In Yugoslavia, Ukraine and the Arab world, 'ultras' and hooligans have fought on the front line in revolutions, and gone to war. Award-winning journalist Ronny Blaschke brings these battles to life, having researched them across four continents. He traces how power in football is shifting as club investors from China, Russia and the Gulf States secure economic influence in Europe for their governments. Blaschke explores the interplay between politics, history, religion and football to shine a light on a subject poorly understood and seldom discussed.

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Book SynopsisJimmy Greaves: The One and Only is the sensational and official biography of arguably the greatest British goalscorer of all time, authorised by Jimmy's widow, Irene, and told by his friend of 64 years, Norman Giller. This brutally honest 'warts 'n' all' account covers the many highs and lows of Jimmy's extraordinary triple career as great footballer, master TV raconteur and then stage comedian, interrupted by six years of alcoholism. Jimmy and Irene lost their four-month-old son to pneumonia when they were barely out of their teens, and Norman examines how this tragedy set the tone for Jimmy's life. A parade of legends - Sir Geoff Hurst, Sir Bobby Charlton, Denis Law and Harry Redknapp among them - give personal glimpses of Greaves, and Norman, who delivered the eulogy at Jimmy's funeral, reveals stories of him that will surprise and shock his army of admirers. How did missing the 1966 World Cup Final really affect him? Was he ever drunk on the pitch? Who were his favourite players, and what did he consider his greatest goal?

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Book SynopsisEverybody Round My House for a Parmo! is the story of the most successful era in Middlesbrough FC's history, as told by those who experienced it. From Marinelli to Mendieta and Vidmar to Viduka, this 'small town in Europe' went from relegation fodder to cup-winners on the cusp of European glory in the space of just three short seasons, between 2003 and 2006. But while results on the pitch were memorable, they mean nothing without the backstory of how such heights were reached. Told with the help of players, club staff and local media at the heart of the journey, this is the inside story of how Steve McClaren transformed the Teessiders' fortunes while encountering more than a few hiccups along the way - including a failed drug test and even a manager getting hit by an angry fan's season ticket! It's one of modern football's greatest fairy tales, but even the greatest successes come with their fair share of struggles.

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Book SynopsisQatar 2022 is an insider's view of the country's ambitious plans for the FIFA 2022 World Cup, and the journey that led them to become the first World Cup hosts in the Arab world. From desert tribes to pearl divers, to being custodians of the third-largest gas reserve in the world, there are many fascinating facets to this great nation. The book reveals how an influx of wealth transformed the country's aspirations to become a global powerhouse. To achieve recognition and regional dominance, Qatar strategically made sport its prime focus before delivering the seemingly impossible and winning the World Cup bid in 2010. There were many stumbling blocks along the way, but Qatar refused to quit. With the eyes of the world turning to Qatar for World Cup 2022, the nation realises this event will be pivotal to how the world perceives it. Knowing Qatar's ability to host events with panache, prepare to be blown away!

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Book SynopsisWhen UK Sport removed funding for women's BMX, Bethany Shriever's dream of Olympic glory seemed shattered. Throw in the impact of a broken leg sustained in childhood, plus an untimely arm injury weeks before the final Olympic qualification event, and few would have thought the 22-year-old would be on the plane to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, let alone the podium. And with the uncertainty caused by a global pandemic, the external pressures on Beth were intense and pervasive. However, the BMX racer from Essex is made of stern stuff and, perhaps just as importantly, so are the team around her. From her deeply involved family, to her dedicated coaching team, to her friends within the BMX community, Beth's story recognises the team behind an athlete. This compelling tale of triumph over adversity reveals how the power of belief overcame the obstacles that threatened to derail Bethany's dreams of becoming the best ever female BMX racer.

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Book SynopsisRovers Till I Die is the fascinating story of Blackburn's most famous personality, Bob Crompton, a man of humble birth who achieved soaring success in and out of football. Born the son of a beer seller in a town where work was hard and wages poor, Crompton broke the shackles of his working-class roots. He became a legendary captain of England and Blackburn Rovers, whom he led to two First Division championships. The first footballer to own a motor car, he later manufactured them. After a plumbing patent made him a rich man Crompton diversified into various businesses, generating a personal wealth that led to him being co-opted to the Rovers' board. He later served as coach and manager, masterminding an FA Cup Final victory and promotion. Yet he remained misunderstood, his character shaped by personal tragedy and a target for those connected with the club who envied his success. Rovers Till I Die is the definitive story of a Blackburn legend who achieved his aspirations and more.

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Book SynopsisGlory in Union is a pictorial celebration of the Rugby World Cup, taking us on a thrilling journey from the inaugural tournament in 1987 to the present day. Using stunning stock images, it brings you the greatest and most iconic stars to have ever played the game, including Jonah Lomu, David Campese, Jonny Wilkinson, Sebastian Chabel, Zinzan Brooke, Michael Jones, Brian O'Driscoll, Richie McCaw, Francois Pienaar and many more. This beautifully illustrated book covers the great matches, the turning points, the controversy, the heroes, the villains and the iconic moments that have made the World Cup the most prestigious tournament in rugby. Glory in Union is an essential piece of World Cup nostalgia for every rugby fan.

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Book SynopsisSpice Up Your Life: Liverpool, the Nineties and Roy Evans is the fascinating story of arguably the most significant decade in the long history of Liverpool FC. After the Reds' most dominant and successful decade in the 1980s, the early 90s saw a rapid decline in the club's fortunes under the stewardship of Liverpool icon Graeme Souness, who was sacked in January 1994. Spice Up Your Life charts the gradual renaissance at Anfield under Souness's replacement and long-term boot-room member Roy Evans, the much-adored 3-5-2 formation, the infamous 'Spice Boys' moniker and the revitalisation of a football club that looked to be in freefall. The book explores the emergence of many of Anfield's youngest and brightest stars - from Steve McManaman to Jamie Redknapp, Robbie Fowler to Michael Owen - and credits Evans, as the last Liverpool manager from the legendary boot room, for bringing the Merseyside club back to prominence and ready to retake its perch at the top of English football.Trade Review"Spice Up Your Life recalls in a vivid, fascinating and insightful text the challenges faced by Liverpool in the 1990s and the revitalisation of a football club that looked to be in freefall." * Love Wirral *

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Book SynopsisThe Roger Federer Effect tells the story of the world's most famous tennis player in a fresh, innovative way - through the eyes of his friends, rivals, coaches, fans and many others who have been drawn to him as he blazed a trail and transcended the sport. In a glorious career spanning more than two decades, Federer won 20 Grand Slam titles - including eight at Wimbledon - and more than 100 tournaments worldwide, taking the game to a new level and becoming the most popular player the sport has ever seen. As he enters retirement, more than 40 personalities from inside and outside tennis reveal the special place Federer holds in their lives. Through exclusive interviews, they explain the Roger Federer phenomenon. As much as his deeds are important, it is also the intimate details that really make a person who they are. The Roger Federer Effect reveals them in fascinating and often previously untold anecdotes.

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Book SynopsisCrossing the Park: The Men Who Dared to Play for Both Liverpool and Everton casts a spotlight on the players who have turned out for both clubs. Despite less than a mile separating the two teams, only 34 men have worn the colours of both and it's been more than 20 years since a direct transfer between the sides. Why have so few players crossed the park? What is the legacy of those who did? From Liverpool's 'Team of Macs' adorned in blue and white, three men had already played at Anfield but for its previous tenants - Everton. Since then, there has been more than 130 years of transfers and each player has a unique story to tell. The ever-changing face of the clubs' rivalry and friendship can be assessed by looking at the Anfield and Goodison careers of each man. In Conor Coady, we've seen perhaps the final player to cross the park as Everton look for a new home away from L4. The story of this unique rivalry is told through exclusive interviews with the men who dared to cross the divide.Trade ReviewA truly excellent portrayal of those who have been brave and indeed talented enough to have represented two of the most illustrious football clubs in the world, filled with in-depth details, wit and the beautiful game at the forefront. Despite our differences - often down to nothing more than our parents' allegiances - there can be no denying the shared history between the powerhouses of the English game and albeit often a fractious rivalry, our families, friends and lives remain intertwined and with that, so do many of our favourite footballing stories. Often referred to as the ‘friendly derby’ in years gone by, harrowing events such as the Hillsborough disaster have undoubtedly united the two clubs at the most pivotal of times, and its that unison, coupled with the in-view proximity that makes the passage from Liverpool to Everton or vice-versa all the more fascinating. This book offers a wonderful insight into the history and the journey of those who have been brave enough to cross Stanley Park to represent the ‘enemy’ in blue or red. From the first Scouser John Whitehead to do the short trip across the park, to a flamboyantly haired Mozambique-born Abel Xavier, this is a must-read for those wanting to discover more about what is a rivalry steeped in history and the players who have experienced both football clubs from within. * Redmen TV *Crossing the Park is a fascinating and comprehensive look at the men who have dared to play for both Everton and Liverpool. The book delightfully recounts the pithy stories of the good, the bad, and the ugly who have donned both blue and red, while also documenting the changes around the clubs and city. In addition to the stories of the players, the book also covers the history of both clubs, the changing rivalry between the teams, and the politics that have often been involved in the transfers. Crossing the Park is both absorbing and well researched. It is a must-read for any fan of either team and provides valuable insights into the fascinating history of both Everton and Liverpool. -- Owen Thomas * Kop On! Liverpool FC podcast *"Crossing The Park is a fantastic read for both Blues and Reds, detailing the history of those who dared to represent both sides of the city. As a fan of one of the two clubs, you will love this book. It brings vastly researched and brilliantly written tales of footballing people from Andrew Hannah to Conor Coady, Rafa Benitez and even Evertonian-turned-Liverpudlian Jamie Carragher. Even if you are a neutral, there will be something in this book for you. The intriguing backstories of these individuals will have you reading for hours, fascinated by the rivalry between the clubs that so few decided to cross, especially with the fantastic writing taking you through the journey. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable read and some interesting facts and figures, even including a “Legend” rating and “Traitor” rating for each player at both clubs as you go further through the years, brings an extremely interesting and entertaining look at the rivalry and those 34 men. A great book that is well worth sitting down with!" -- Rhys Jones * Everton Blue Army *"Anyone familiar with Peter Kenny Jones’ prior book entry in football discourse will be intrinsically aware of the writer’s ability to expertly craft a story from vast swathes of history. Broadening the focus away from one player in the form of legendary Red Billy Liddell, Jones takes on the shared history of Liverpool and Everton – and a whopping 34 players in the process. If that wasn’t enough, the author added the challenge of dissecting the two clubs’ complex rivalry and love/hate relationship to his plate in a 300-page waltz through the history books. With a topic where it appears quite simple to get bogged down in the small details and miss the bigger picture, Jones has succeeded in marrying the two components in a book that both respects history and invites the reader to be introspective about where they stand in the divide between Anfield and Goodison Park." -- Farrell Keeling * Empire of the Kop *"A brilliant read for Evertonians and Liverpudlians alike. From Andrew Hannah to Conor Coady, every player who ‘crossed the park’ is detailed in enthralling, informative and entertaining fashion. Peter’s dedication and commitment to chasing down the best possible stories for each individual only makes this book better from the outset and Rafa Benitez’s part to play alone is worth the purchase. I highly recommend Crossing The Park for anyone who wants to delve deeper into the history of the unique relationship between two of the biggest clubs in English football" -- Chris Coughlin * BBC Radio Merseyside *"I was interested in this book. Not just because of what I could find out about those who’ve played for both Merseyside clubs but to remind myself in a few cases of just how the mood of the city changed towards those who dared. Peter [has] researched [the book] meticulously... he covers everyone and covers the stories behind them. I won’t go into too much more detail but some of the stories about how players played for both sides, even though some moved elsewhere first, such as David Johnson and Steve McMahon." -- John Pearman * Red All Over The Land *"Crossing The Park is very neatly scribed by Peter Kenny Jones, who knows how to write interestingly on ‘The Men Who Dared To Play For Both’... Crossing The Park is a history lesson, ferrying readers’ minds across the Mersey; at the conclusion of Jones’s book one feels one has learned many new facts and figures, so... result!" -- Mark Watkins * Dare Radio *"Jones's writing style is engaging and accessible, and he has a knack for bringing each player's story to life with vivid detail and insightful analysis." * The Football Library *"This book is not only a comprehensive history of the individuals to have graced both clubs, but a window into the past of both and a fantastic insight into their histories. The knowledge Peter has on the individuals and their lives is astounding and the detail he goes into on each, while still keeping it concise and readable, is intricate... I would strongly recommend this book to Evertonians interested in exploring the Club’s history in terms of those who have been bold, or crazy, enough to cross Stanley Park. I would strongly recommend this book." -- Tom Clarke * The Toffee Blues *"Crossing the Park is an enjoyable look at those few individuals who have played or managed both of Liverpool's major teams. The profiles are short, sharp and interesting and together paint the picture of how rarely the park has been crossed but how fraught with risk it can be for those who attempt it. The profiles are short, sharp and interesting." -- Brendan Crowley * Sports Book Reviews *"Peter Jones builds on this friendly rivalry and brings 'history alive' with painstaking research of each player alongside exclusive interviews with many." * Love Wirral Magazine *

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Book SynopsisAll-India and Down Under is the dramatic story of two cricket tours undertaken in the aftermath of the Second World War. For seven years the war had put the careers of England’s cricketers on hold. Then, in 1946, England played three Tests against ‘All-India’. However, it proved to be the last such tour: by mid-1947, Indian partition had cut the country in two, a process that was violent and bloody. While the tourists were in England, struggling in a cold, wet summer, their own country was in turmoil. As that tour drew to a close in September, the MCC sent a party of war-weary cricketers to Australia to play the first Ashes series since 1938. The English were ill-prepared, some scarcely out of uniform, while others carried the physical and mental scars of the war years. For the aging captain, Walter Hammond, it would prove a tour too far. The book follows the cricketing drama of both tours amid the political uncertainty of the time, with a Labour government struggling to disentangle Britain from its Empire.Trade Review"The book is so well written and, whilst All-India and Down Under: Peace, Partition and the Game of Cricket is Knott’s first on cricket, let us hope there are more to come." -- Martin Chandler * CricketWeb.net *

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Book SynopsisBob Phillips takes us on an exhilarating journey across the formative years of marathon running - from 1896 through to the Olympic marathons of the 1950s that revolutionised the event. Through a compelling blend of personal memoirs, anecdotes, runner biographies, torrid tales and extraordinary facts and figures, the book shines a light on Britain's role in the development of marathon running and how its courageous competitors have invariably captured the public imagination. Learn about the brilliant generational talents who have cemented the event at the pinnacle of popular athletics, from the days when naive amateurs ran for tin medals towards the era of highly trained professionals. 26 Miles 385 Yards is a must-have book for every marathon enthusiast.Trade Review"This book is a fascinating read and a great addition to the history of athletics." * Athletics International *"One for marathon aficionados, this tome covers a lot of ground – some 26 miles 385 yards to be exact." * Pitch Magazine *

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Book SynopsisWhat makes the number-ten jersey so special? It's merely material and thread - the number only used for administrative purposes. Yet the number ten represents much more than football. Those wearing it carry the weight of expectation for club and country. Andy Bollen forensically examines the world's greatest players - from Puskás to Pelé, Maradona and Messi - and asks, what makes them tick? How did they reach legendary status? He explores how their will to win at all costs comes from their desire to overcome adversity - escape poverty, rejection or horrendous injury. Bollen scrutinises the illustrious players who wore the number-ten shirt, discussing the lives, careers and mindsets of the classic playmakers. Theirs is a unique mentality, a twisted logic and drive. Part brilliance, part elegant brutality, they are required to deliver an artistry, genius and creativity. Their play is elevated to a work of art, then, with great devilment, they are capable of wilfully slashing and destroying it.Trade Review"There are those who will argue that the truly inspired are the beneficiaries of what is called 'God-given talent' suggesting that some kind of alchemy has been passed on to sacred individuals as they await their entrance to the mortal realm. Bollen points out that there is not just one secret ingredient found in the petri dish that has produced some of the best footballers of all time but there are many similarities with work ethic, adversity, determination and mental strength chief among them." -- James Morgan * Glasgow Herald *

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Book SynopsisBarcelona-Real Madrid. Celtic-Rangers. Boca Juniors-River Plate. Stoke City-Port Vale? Few neutrals recognise the Potteries derby between the two Stoke-on-Trent teams as a fierce rivalry. The reason? The teams rarely meet in league clashes. The rivalry is strikingly divisive, even within the ST postcode area. But this derby is so much more meaningful than it is given credit for. In fact, it could be England's most underrated derby. Good rivalries require history, territorial conflict, exciting incidents and passionate fans in fierce defiance of those that profess local supremacy. The Potteries derby has all that and then some. Matches date back to the late 1800s, but the clubs have mostly been kept apart in the English football pyramid. When they have met - in the cup, promotion battles, relegation dogfights or just to claim bragging rights - this derby has delivered unforgettable moments. El Ceramico explores the history of the Potteries derby, with first-hand accounts telling the story of a rivalry like no other.

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Book SynopsisLeague One Leeds is the story of Leeds United's three seasons spent in the third tier of English football. An illustrious club who had never fallen so low, their journey through League One would become the most chaotic period in Leeds's history and the drama started before a ball was kicked. An unprecedented 15-point deduction that plunged the Whites from promotion favourites to relegation fodder set the tone, as the club's fortunes undulated wildly over the course of three bizarre seasons. Record-breaking winning runs, long barren spells, FA Cup defeats at Histon and Hereford, victory at Old Trafford - this is a football story that twists and turns all the way through to a hair-raising finale. The book is written through the eyes of the author and features exclusive insight from Simon Grayson, Jermaine Beckford, Jonny Howson, Bradley Johnson, David Prutton, Casper Ankergren and Luciano Becchio, whose first-hand experiences are interwoven with his own. The result: a riveting account of a fascinating period in Leeds United's history.Trade Review"Rocco is as good as it gets as regards bottling the emotions of what it is like to be a football fan. He expounds the essence of the Elland Road vibe and his skills as a writer are aplenty. This book highlights the wonders and warts of a club." * World of Words *"League One Leeds takes us through those strange, three League One seasons which epitomised the passion and loyalty of Leeds fans." -- Gary Edwards * Leeds United author *"What a read!" -- Jermaine Beckford * Former Leeds United striker *

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Book SynopsisFinal Third: The Last Word on our Football Heroes serves up another batch of funny, absurd and jaw-dropping tales discovered within more than 300 footballer autobiographies. Author John Smith has pored over the memoirs of the great and the good - as well as the not so good - so you don't have to. You're welcome. Final Third paints an intimate picture of our favourite football figures, using their own stories to show what makes them tick, what unites and divides them and exactly what they are prepared to share with us. They've seen things you wouldn't believe! The eye-opening stories include a defender deliberately driving a golf ball into Jimmy Hill's house, a goalkeeper confronted by a witch doctor in his penalty area, one football legend asking another to scale a church tower to stop the bells ringing, a manager who was like catnip to the wives of his directors and the England captain who drifted down the Thames. It all adds up to a fun third volume of the definitive digest of the autobiographies of our football heroes.

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Book Synopsis1923: Life in Football 100 Years Ago takes a deep dive into the matches, personalities and events that lit up the game a century ago. Based on exhaustive archival research, it’s also a social history that reveals how fans and footballers lived their day to day lives and how they were affected by the year’s happenings. What they ate, drank and how they spent their leisure time. How players trained and what they earned. Who the top clubs and players were and what type of tactics they used. What kit and boots they wore and how they prepared and travelled to games, often alongside the fans. The book explores why mining communities produced so many of the year’s top footballers, and how an amateur playing army captain made an unlikely debut for the full England side. From the infamous White Horse Cup Final and the shocking murder of footballer Tommy Ball, to the painful legacy of World War One on the game and the emergence of top professional football in Europe, it’s a unique look at a memorable year in football and beyond.

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Book SynopsisInside Diego is an intimate portrait of the greatest footballer of all time, from the person in football who knew him best. As Diego Maradona's personal trainer, Fernando Signorini spent more than a decade at the superstar's side, witnessing a dizzying array of highs and lows, from helping Diego recuperate from a broken ankle in 1983 to his dramatic exit from the 1994 World Cup after a failed drugs test. Signorini offers a unique perspective on the troubled legend, giving us the lowdown not only on Diego's evolution as an athlete, but on Diego the human being, a far cry from the character we saw on TV screens. He brings us the inside track on Maradona's preparation for three World Cups: Mexico 86, Italia 90 and USA 94. We also get an insider view on his battles with fame, drugs and extramarital paternity, plus his time in charge of the Argentine national team. Brimming with incredible stories and anecdotes, Inside Diego is an intensely personal rollercoaster account of a flawed football genius.

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Book SynopsisEl Más Grande is the story of Argentina's biggest and most successful football club, River Plate. From their humble origins in the southern districts of Buenos Aires, River grew into one of the largest clubs in South America, earning the nickname 'The Millionaires' as they established themselves at the iconic Monumental Stadium. Over the years, River have propelled some of the greatest talents on the continent to fame, whilst enchanting generations of fans with their stylish play. The book journeys back to the 'máquina' team of the 1940s, arguably the most attractive club side of the pre-television era, with its fabled frontline of Moreno, Loustau, Pedernera, Labruna and Muñoz. It takes us through the great sides of the 1950s, 70s and 90s right up to the all-conquering reign of present coach Marcelo Gallardo. Along the way, we discover the great players who have worn the distinctive white shirt with the red sash - from Bernabé Ferreyra, Alfredo Di Stéfano and Enzo Francescoli to Manchester City's new signing Julián Álvarez.Trade Review"Mark Orton has deftly written a most interesting book, based on his travels to, and love of, South America – specifically football and River Plate, Argentina’s biggest club… this is a great, informative read." -- Mark Watkins * Dare Radio *

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Book SynopsisThe revealing autobiography of former footballer Emile Heskey. From humble beginnings, Emile became one of Leicester's favourite sons, as part of Martin O'Neill's swashbuckling misfits. In five years he won promotion, four top-ten Premier League finishes and two League Cups. England called, as did Gerard Houllier and an £11 million move to Liverpool, enabling Emile to form a memorable partnership with Michael Owen for both club and country. Then came the trophies - six of them, including the FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Cup. Heskey's England career saw him play in two European Championships and two World Cups as part of the Golden Generation, earning 62 caps and scoring seven times - including the final goal in the 5-1 demolition of Germany. He went on to play for Birmingham City, Wigan Athletic, Aston Villa, Newcastle Jets and Bolton Wanderers, notably donating £100,000 to save Leicester City from extinction. Even Heskey Scored is the story of a largely unsung player, loved by his team-mates, who overcame fierce criticism to live the dream.

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Book SynopsisFrom the 'team of the century' to relegation, from Feyenoord to Field Mill, from trophies under the iconic Bill Nicholson to relegation under former Zambia coach Keith Burkinshaw - all in a little over three years. The 1970s weren't kind to Spurs. Nicholson's exit, the loss of legendary players and the club's eventual relegation all took place during a defining decade for British sport, painted against a backdrop of dramatic change for society at large. Social and economic malaise both informed and fed off a blooming culture of football hooliganism. The defining images of the decade were violent ones, both on and off the terraces. This book explores Tottenham's place in that unfolding drama, the club's own Götterdämmerung. But, as in Wagner's Ring, there was also a renaissance. The sun rose again as that same maligned Burkinshaw built an exciting team around the young Glenn Hoddle and World Cup-winning duo Ossie Ardiles and Ricky Villa. By the end of the decade, Tottenham had been reborn and were ready for more glory, glory days.Trade Review“In Glory, Glory, Gone: The Story of Tottenham Hotspur’s Regression, Relegation and Rebirth in the 1970s, Rooke bravely dives straight into one of Tottenham’s most painful periods in its long history — painful not just because of the poor football and on-pitch results but because it shone an even brighter light on the era that had just passed, one which had established Spurs as one of the greatest clubs in England.…a fascinating read. The real comfort in Glory, Glory, Gone is that despite a decade of frustration, happy times and glory did come again to Spurs, eventually. Something for all of us living in the future to remember.” * Cartilage Free Captain *

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Book SynopsisToday, high-profile derby games trigger a febrile atmosphere and the odd brawl. But Derby Shrovetide Football was truly wild. One mob pitted its wits and muscle against the other. Players broke down walls, dived into freezing rivers and crawled through sewers. Thousands of fans filled the streets and civilised behaviour was suspended. But why did this game achieve national notoriety and then disappear in 1846? The Derby Game charts the century-long struggle to kill a tradition and the fanatical resistance of players and supporters. It is a fascinating tale of mobs and magistrates, bobbies and brickbats, dragoons and defiance. The book then explores the rise of the local derby, as football fever grips the UK. It covers the early clashes of local rivals in the Victorian football hotspots, tracing the roots of some time-honoured rivalries and separating the friendly derbies from the hostile. Discover how the derby became part of a global language as Britain exported football to the world.

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Book SynopsisMucky Boots is the warts-and-all story of Kevin McCabe''s two decades as Sheffield United''s owner-chairman. McCabe grew up yards from Bramall Lane, where he watched Sheffield United FC and Yorkshire County Cricket Club play. He left school aged 16 and worked on a building site, where a few words of encouragement set him on a path to creating a billion-pound global property empire. McCabe''s Sheffield United takeover was driven by his quest to beat local rivals, Sheffield Wednesday, and establish the Blades in the Premier League. Along the way, he took on the football establishment. With his hopes floundering in the midst of a rancorous dispute with then co-owner Prince Abdullah, a chance encounter led to McCabe''s appointment of Chris Wilder as Blades manager in 2016. In an ironic twist, as the Blades headed back to the Premier League, McCabe and Wilder unwittingly contributed to each other''s downfall and departure from the club they adored.

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