Sports teams and clubs Books

Book SynopsisTHE MOST COMPREHENSIVE BIOGRAPHY OF ARSENE WENGER EVER PUBLISHED, NOW FULLY REVISED AND UPDATED TO THE END OF HIS ARSENAL CAREER. When Arsene Wenger arrived at Arsenal in 1996, he was little known to fans at the club and many doubted he could bring back the glory days of George Graham. But soon he was transforming the way the team played, melding the famous English defensive spine of Tony Adams, Martin Keown, Lee Dixon, Nigel Winterburn and David Seaman with a hugely creative foreign attacking spirit, epitomised by Dennis Bergkamp, Thierry Henry and Robert Pires, that could both outplay and outmuscle their rivals. At the same time, he introduced new ideas on diet, exercise, training and tactics, which many players believe extended their careers. Having won numerous trophies, and led the Invincibles to an unprecedented unbeaten league season in 2003-04, Wenger then had to help the Gunners through the next stage of their development when they moved from Highbury to the Emirates Stadium, a move that was followed by a nine-year trophy drought. Despite the financial constraints he faced, he still managed to keep the club playing in the Champions League year after year while remaining true to his philosophy of how the game should be played. Some began to question whether he had been left behind, despite picking up back-to-back FA Cups in 2014 and 2015, and in the end in April 2018 he decided the time was right to step away.  Now, in this updated edition of John Cross's acclaimed biography, the author provides a compelling account of the man and his methods across 22 years in charge. He assesses the scale of Wenger's achievements and whether the criticism he faced towards the end was justified. Arsene Wenger builds into the most complete portrait of the Frenchman yet written. 

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE SPORTS BOOK AWARDS 2024 CRICKET BOOK OF THE YEARSHORTLISTED FOR THE CRICKET SOCIETY AND MCC BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD 2024 ''The gripping story of England's transformation from prissy blockers to double world champions''The Times''A must-read for any cricket lover''Nasser Hussain, Former England captain and Sky Sports commentatorThe inside story of how England became the first men's team to hold both of cricket's World Cups simultaneously, from the players and key people involved.When England lifted the T20 World Cup in November 2022, they became the first ever men's team to be One-Day International and Twenty20 world champions simultaneously. In English sport, triumphs aren't just rare they also tend to be followed by a collapse. England's white-ball cricket side was different: a team that followed scaling the summit by doing so again. They became, as Australia's captain

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year''Magnificent ... the pinacle of rugby writing'' Owen Slot, The TimesThe 1997 British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa is one of the most iconic in rugby history. Written off at home and abroad, Martin Johnson''s men were given no hope of success against the world champion Springboks in their own backyard. But a combination of brilliant coaching, astute selections and outstanding players laid the foundations for the touring side''s outstanding attacking mindset and brutal stonewall defence.On the other side was a team expected to stamp their authority on the tourists and confirm their place as the best side on the planet. But with political, racial and economic scandals swirling around the Springbok camp, plus a rookie coach parachuted into office just before the tour began, the hosts were under huge pressure.In a Test series that will go down in legend as one of the most compelling of all time, the sides could barely be separated. This is the inside story from both camps as they battle for supremacy, lifting the lid like never before as a huge cast of characters look back on those extraordinary weeks and the impact it had on their lives and careers thereafter. Hilarious, insightful and spine-chilling, Tom English and Peter Burns provide the perfect read for all Lions fans.

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Book Synopsis*****Shortlisted for International Autobiography of the Year in the Telegraph Sports Book Awards 2021'This account is often poetic and sometimes haunting.' - FourFourTwoTriple European Footballer of the Year. Once World Footballer of the Year. European Champion two UEFA Super Cups, European Champion with the Dutch National Team in 1988 and numerous national championships with both Ajax and AC Milan. Marco van Basten is known as one of the greatest footballers of all time, but his personal life has always remained somewhat of a mystery, until now.Basta is the raw, honest, but above all gripping autobiography of Marco van Basten.It's the unfiltered story of his rise to fame, from being under the wing of Cruyff and experiencing life as an Ajax player to being propelled into the spotlight following Euros '88 - and scoring the greatest goal ever to win a major final - and playing for AC Milan at the peak of Italian football's popularity.But despite countless successes, Marco van Basten experienced many low points, including losing a childhood friend, battling with pain after his numerous fluffed operations, and ultimately coming to terms with life after playing football.Basta is his story.

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Book SynopsisWith the world turning rightwards and democracy looking at its most precarious since the 1930s, the emergence of a global network of left-wing, anti-fascist and anti-racist football fans has been one of the few shining lights in dark times. Some support clubs that are globally renowned, including the great St Pauli - more famous for the quality of its politics and its merchandise than its football. Others, no less committed, follow virtual minnows, like Red Star Paris and Bohemians Prague. But they still have proud histories, deep convictions and something to say. The left often fails to connect. How can these clubs inform and inspire? How can their example help collectivist, internationalist and inclusive principles defeat the seductive slogans and symbols of the growing nationalist and nativist movements across the planet? The Roaring Red Front explores theses questions while examining the history and current struggles of these special clubs - and why it all matters.

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Book SynopsisOne of the most iconic sporting competitions in existence, The Champions League is synonymous not only with showcasing some of the greatest ever players and games in world football, but also with producing some of the greatest shirts to have ever graced the game. The football shirt itself has developed from a show of support to being an everyday fashion item, with different styles and patterns getting all football fans excited about the variety their club has showcased over the years. Classic football kits have a way of reminding fans of memorable moments, seasons and trophies that form their chosen club’s rich history and footballing identity.

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Book SynopsisScheisse! recounts the extraordinary story of Union Berlin, the German Bundesliga's most spirited football club, interwoven with a witty history of contemporary Berlin.Trade Review'Fascinating' Daily Mail'A wonderful journey into the heart of a very unique club' Raphael Honigstein'The history and culture of a special football club deserve a special kind of chronicling – and Holden has executed it to perfection' Patrick Barclay'An engrossing portrait' Philip Oltermann'For the first time, Scheisse is a good thing! A captivating read on one of the most unique clubs in world football' Archie Rhind-Tutt'A beautifully crafted set of stories that reveal a personal history of one of Germany’s most special clubs and cities' Jonathan Harding'Holden superbly captures the myth, history and spirit that make Union so very special and beloved' Andreas Michaelis'A fascinating tale that is expertly told' Adam Bate'A must-read for any football romantic, regardless of where you're from and what team you support' Cristian Nyari

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Book SynopsisFulham FC is the oldest professional club in London and an established Premiership side. This book offers a look at the club''s history until 1970, including the time they played in the First Division, and players such as England captain Johnny Haynes, Bobby Robson and World Cup winner George Cohen.

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Book Synopsis''Football history at its best'' SCOTLAND ON SUNDAY''Hugely moving... a very good book indeed'' FOUR FOUR TWO''Kuper is an original, sophisticated and adventurous writer. The story he has to tell... is fascinating and pressing'' SUNDAY TIMESIn FOOTBALL AGAINST THE ENEMY Simon Kuper crossed the globe in search of the links between football, politics and culture. In AJAX, THE DUTCH, THE WAR he skilfully pieces together an alternative account of World War II. He looks at the lives of the footballers who played for the Dutch club, the officials and the ordinary fans during this tumultuous period and challenges the accepted notion of the War in occupied Europe. With almost 80 per cent of Amsterdam''s Jewish Corner wiped out during the war, the long-held belief that, by and large, half the Dutch population had some kind of link to the Resistance has, of late, come into question. Kuper explores this issue and looks deeper into the role Trade ReviewAt last, the long-awaited follow-up from the author of the classic FOOTBALL AGAINST THE ENEMY... hugely moving... a very good book indeed * FOUR FOUR TWO *An intriguing social history, full of quirky observations and anecdotes, written with winning geniality... Kuper has produced a beguiling book, not only for aficionados of the beautiful game or connoisseurs of Jewish history, but for anyone curious about our not-so-distant past * FINANCIAL TIMES *Passionate and moving * GUARDIAN *Football history at its best * SCOTLAND ON SUNDAY *His writing combines scholarly graft, a feel for political complexity, and quiet but powerful wit * INDEPENDENT *Kuper is an original, sophisticated and adventurous writer. The story he has to tell... is fascinating and pressing * SUNDAY TIMES *

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Book SynopsisThe Sunday Times Bestseller and Number 1 Sport Book of 2016'A tale that's truly inspirational' The SunAn ordinary lad from Sheffield, Jamie Vardy has become known as an against-the-odds footballing hero the world over. Yet a few years ago, things couldn’t have been any more different. Rejected as a teenager by his boyhood club, Jamie thought his chance was gone. But from playing pub football and earning £30 a week at Stocksbridge Park Steels, while still working in a factory, his off-the-cuff performances saw him rise.Jamie had a wild and turbulent youth, but football became his saving grace and, once he filled his boots with goals at FC Halifax Town and Fleetwood Town, he moved to Leicester City. After the miracle of surviving relegation, the team of unlikely outsiders bonded together to achieve the unthinkable: Jamie set the record as the first player to score in 11 consecutive Premier League matches and Leicester beat odds of 5000-1 to become champions.Jamie has now been nominated for the Ballon d’Or, firmly establishing himself as one of England’s leading goal scoring footballers. Not forgetting his roots, however, he has set up the V9 Academy in a bid to find the next big talent from non-league football. Defying all expectations, this is the story of the boy from nowhere who reached the top in his own unflinching, honest words.Trade ReviewJamie Vardy’s searingly honest warts and all account of his rise from football’s lowest foothills to the Premier League summit has been the talk of football. -- Sean Hamilton * The Sun *

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Book SynopsisRecord Breakers: The Inside Story of Notts County's Momentous 1997/98 Title Triumph delves into the inner sanctum of a basement-league dressing room in the 90s, as its inhabitants attempt to write themselves into the history books. Led by future England boss Sam Allardyce, taking some of his first managerial steps, Record Breakers is the inspirational tale of how the world's oldest Football League club fought back from a plunge down the divisions, falling attendances and financial strife to become the first side in post-war English football to win a title in March. The momentous feat is relived by the players themselves, lending a unique insight into their record run. It's packed with characters and anecdotes, and augmented with memories of supporters who lived through this season of tumbling records. From training ground punch-ups to transfer tales and unforgettable celebrations, Record Breakers is a remarkable winners' story in what now seems a bygone era.

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Book Synopsis** AS SEEN ON BBC FOOTBALL FOCUS AND BT SPORT **** 'Excellent and thoroughly enjoyable' Sunday Sport **** 'Informative and eye-opening . . . an inspirational and motivational book' footballbookreviews.com **'ONE MAN AND HIS QUEST TO SEE A GAME IN EVERY UEFA NATION IN ONE SEASON' Paul Doyle, GuardianIn June 2017, Matt said farewell to his job, surrendered his Fulham FC season ticket and set off for Georgia, the first stop on his mission. He would end his adventure eleven months later in Montenegro, having conquered the continent and captured the imagination of its sporting media.His epic journey would pose its challenges. Yet no amount of airport confusion in Iceland, unusual betting activity in Latvia, spectator bans in Albania or ropey breakfast buffets in Moldova would make Matt miss a matchday. And then there were the games themselves: showcasing the full spectrum of footballing theatre, from the truly sublime to the utterly ridiculous.This is the story of one fan on a once-in-a-lifetime experience: travelling to Europe's unseen corners, talking with its unsung supporters, and tracing the beautiful game across the breadth of our brilliant, bizarre continent.Trade ReviewExcellent and thoroughly enjoyable. - Sunday SportInformative and eye-opening . . . an inspirational and motivational book.

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Book SynopsisThis Collectors Edition Illustrated Book provides an insight into the most successful period for one of the most famous football clubs in the world. Liverpool Football Club is the team that dominated English and European Football throughout the 1980’s. The book charts the highlights of the ten year period from the excitement of winning 2 European Cups, 7 League Trophies, 2 FA Cups and 4 League Cups to the devastation of the Heysel and Hillsborough disasters. The significant matches, career player retrospectives, a special focus on Bob Paisley, Joe Fagan, Kenny Dalglish, Ian Rush and Graeme Souness, the managers and the greatest players who guided the club and in depth statistical information. This Collectors Edition looks at all the magic moments of this extraordinary period in this great clubs history.

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Book Synopsis***THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER 'A heroic outsider - a pleasure to read.' - The Guardian'A fulsome evocation of football before the Premier League.' - The i'Such a good storyteller...joyous.' - Financial Times'Honest, raw, revealing and very funny. How to live a life and career to the full. Insightful book about the most successful outsider inside football ever...' - Henry Winter, Chief Football Writer, The Times'Pat is a wonderful one-off...and this is the story of why that is.' - John Murray, Chief Sports Correspondent, BBC Radio 5 Live'Unusually vibrant and elegant with heroic doses of humour, insight and self-effacement, this is an absolute must-read for the football connoisseur.' - Omid Djalili 'The biggest influence of my professional career both on and off the pitch.' - Graeme Le Saux'I grew up captivated by Pat Nevin the player. As a man he taught me even more about the beauty of the game. One of football's great mavericks, and Chelsea's greatest players. And he can spin a mean tune too.' - Sam Matterface 'I used to walk miles to see Pat Nevin play football and I'd do the same now to read his thoughts. Always challenging, always entertaining.' - Lord Sebastian Coe'A refreshingly honest and thought-provoking autobiography. As deftly delivered as some of Pat's ball skills in his 1980's heyday.' - ToffeeWeb Pat Nevin never wanted to be a professional footballer.His future was clear, he'd become a teacher like his brothers. There was only one problem with this - Pat was far too good to avoid attention. Raised in Glasgow's East End, Pat loved the game, playing for hours and obsessively following Celtic. But as he grew up, he also loved Joy Division, wearing his Indie 'gloom boom' coat and going on marches - hardly typical footballer behaviour!Placed firmly in the 80s and 90s, before the advent of the Premier League, and often with racism and violence present, Pat Nevin writes with honesty, insight and wry humour. We are transported vividly to Chelsea and Everton, and colourfully diverted by John Peel, Morrissey and nights out at the Hacienda.The Accidental Footballer is a different kind of football memoir. Capturing all the joys of professional football as well as its contradictions and conflicts, it's about being defined by your actions, not your job, and is the perfect reminder of how life can throw you the most extraordinary surprises, when you least expect it.

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Book SynopsisPutting on a Show is the story of Chesterfield FC's remarkable 2023/24 promotion season. Written by the Derbyshire Times' Spireites writer Liam Norcliffe, this is a detailed account of Chesterfield's record-breaking return to the EFL after six seasons in non-league which saw them almost relegated to regional football and close to going bust.

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Book SynopsisFootball is a simple game; 22 men chase a ball for 90 minutes and at the end, the Germans always win' Gary Lineker Packed with exclusive interviews with key protagonists, Raphael Honigstein's book lifts the lid on the secrets of German football's success.13th July 2014, World Cup Final, the last ten minutes of extra time. Germany forward Mario Götze, receiving a floated pass from his international teammate André Schürrle, jumps slightly to meet the ball and cushion it with his chest. Landing on his left foot, he takes a step with his right, swivels, and in one fluid motion, without the ball touching the ground, volleys it past the onrushing Argentine goalkeeper into the far corner of the net. The goal wins Germany the World Cup for the first time in almost twenty-five years. In Das Reboot, journalist and television pundit Raphael Honigstein charts the return of German football - how did German football transform itself from its efTrade ReviewFantastic ... Honigstein's detail is superb -- Aidan Smith * Scotland on Sunday *Fantastic ... Honigstein's detail is superb -- Aidan Smith * Scotland on Sunday *Honigstein charts how fussball became the hippest version of the game * Shortlist *Honigstein tells the story with panache and exactly the same kind of eye for detail he's writing about -- Chris Maume * Independent *An excellent chronicle -- John Mcauley * The National *

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Book SynopsisGo behind the scenes with the Calgary Flames at the NHL draft A singular, transcendent talent can change the fortunes of a hockey team instantly. Each year, NHL teams approach the draft with this knowledge, hoping that luck will be on their side and that their extensive scouting and analysis will pay off.In On the Clock: Calgary Flames, Ryan Pike explores the fascinating, rollercoaster history of the Flames at the draft, including tales of legends like Al MacInnis and Gary Suter, plus newer faces like Andrew Mangiapane. Readers will go behind the scenes with top decision-makers as they evaluate, deliberate, and ultimately make the picks they hope will tip the fate of their franchise toward success.From seemingly surefire first-rounders to surprising late selections and the ones that got away, this is a must-read for Calgary faithful and hockey fans eager for a glimpse at how teams are built.

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Book SynopsisThe Celtic v Rangers clash in Glasgow is one of football's major events, attracting a huge TV audience worldwide. Author David Potter revels in the joy that a victory over the old rivals brings to the Celtic support, reliving some of the club's greatest ever derby-day triumphs from the 1890s right up to date. Here is an expert selection of 50 such legendary occasions, rich in detail and atmosphere, and all the topic of fervent discussion over the years. We hear of Jimmy Quinn's hat-trick in 1904, the astonishing Scottish Cup semi-final of 1925, the 7-1 Scottish League Cup Final of 1957, the 4-0 thrashing in the 1969 Scottish Cup Final, the 6-2 'Demolition Derby' of 2000, plus many landmark games of a more recent vintage. Celtic's greatest players - Henrik Larsson, Jimmy McGrory, Patsy Gallacher, Charlie Tully, Jimmy Johnstone, Billy McNeill and Scott Brown - appear frequently in these pages, as do many others who all played their part in what is traditionally the greatest party of them all, when Celtic beat Rangers!

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Book SynopsisLiverpool Matches of My Life provides a unique perspective on 50 iconic Liverpool games spanning the author's lifetime, from 1960 to date. It takes the reader on a journey through 60 years of this famous club, from its Second Division days to the recent victory in the FIFA Club World Cup and many trophy-winning successes in between. Beginning with a brief history of the club up to 1959, the author relives 50 crucial games that brought Liverpool to the pinnacle of club football by 2019. All the chosen matches meant a great deal to the club, its fans and the author. Along the way there are many firsts, record victories, trophies and games that have gone down in Anfield folklore. As well as covering iconic matches, the book provides brief profiles of key players and tells the story of the intervening years, with all the highs and lows that Liverpool experienced in search of that elusive Premier League title. Are Liverpool the greatest English team of the last 60 years? Judge for yourself as you read the story of this wonderful club.

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Book SynopsisLeeds United Minute By Minute takes you on a fantastic journey through the Whites' matchday history. Relive all the breathtaking goals, heroic penalty saves, sending offs and other memorable moments in this unique by-the-clock guide. From United's early years and successes to the days of domestic dominance in the late 1960s and early 70s, the book covers everything from the Don Revie and David O'Leary eras through to the days of Howard Wilkinson and Marcelo Bielsa. Revisit United's most spectacular modern feats and learn things you didn't know about the club's proud history. From goals scored in the opening seconds to those last-gasp extra-time winners that have thrilled generations of fans at Elland Road and around the world, Leeds United Minute By Minute is packed with memorable moments. From Clarke to Lorimer and from Viduka to Becchio - all the club legends are here, with thrilling memories from kick-off to the final whistle.

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Book SynopsisJimmy Armfield was one of the great figures of English football - captain of the national team before Bobby Moore, member of the 1966 World Cup-winning squad, one-club man with Blackpool. Gentleman Jim went on to enjoy a wonderfully rich life and career as a manager with Leeds United, before becoming a broadcaster of warmth and insight, then consultant with the Football Association and the Professional Footballers' Association. In Pantomime Hero, award-winning football writer and author Ian Ridley tells the remarkable tale of when Armfield took over at Leeds after Brian Clough's ill-fated 44 days and came up with a novel and unique idea to restore the morale of a club in turmoil. Around that amazing tale, Ridley also describes a friendship forged through the bonds of cancer with a giant of a man who was already long established as a national footballing treasure at the time of his death in January 2018. This is the first book in the innovative Football Shorts series.Trade Review"These wonderful 160 pages are a real tribute to Armfield and Ridley has produced a book that has genuine warm borne out of their friendship and Ridley's admiration for Armfield's talent as player, manager and broadcaster." * Football Book Reviews *"A wonderful book. Reading it, I could see Jimmy's smile and hear his voice. The final chapter made me cry." -- Mike Ingham * Former BBC Radio 5live Chief Football Correspondent and colleague of Jimmy Armfield's *"Journalist and author Ridley provides us with some charming, nostalgic and heart-warming stories about Jimmy Armfield, the former Blackpool and England full-back who became an acclaimed broadcaster... Armfield's beacon values of respect and decency will ever endure. This book is a fitting tribute to a wonderful man." -- Ian Aspinall * Late Tackle *

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Book SynopsisThis book contains as full a statistical record as archival data permits for games played by the England Women's National team from their first official match played against Scotland in 1972 to the final match played in 2022.

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Book SynopsisMid-Atlantic, 10 April 1954: The Queen Elizabeth's crew commit to the deep a coffin containing the remains of Liverpool Football Club, relegated that day to the Second Division. Istanbul, 25 May 2005: Liverpool's heroes hold aloft the Champions League trophy, after the greatest final ever. Between those pivotal dates, the Reds touched glittering heights and plumbed the darkest depths. But what about the fans who followed the club every step along the turbulent way? On this journey of a lifetime, Neil Dunkin relies on the cast of characters including Shankly, Paisley, Dalglish, Benitez, Pele and even Ursula Andress...and the action swings from Liverpool to Rome, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, the High Andes, even the top of one of Istanbul's tallest minarets. Subject high acclaim, this title was shortlisted in the Best New Writer category at the 2009 British Sports Book Awards.Trade ReviewAn amazing book - Redlady21 on Liverpool Daily Post football forum. Dunkin talks with great passion about the beautiful game in a language football fans will appreciate. This is not a book solely for Liverpool supporters; anyone who worries that clubs have become highly prized assets should read it and realise that is not an inevitable state of affairs - The Birmingham Post. A fascinating relationship between travel and sport exists only in the heart of the true fan. There is a real sense of this unique perspective in Dunkin's passionate ode to Liverpool FC, which culminates in the "sublime" Champions League victory in 2005. The ups and downs in the club's and the city's history and heritage are cleverly and lovingly charted in the year that Liverpool is the European City of Culture. Football lovers will lap this up but Dunkin's passion and fine line in anecdotes make the book worthy of a much wider readership - Michelle Stanistreet, Daily Express. All I can say is get this book if you see it - Once you start reading it you'll be transported back to a time when life was harsh but so much fun and you'll be brought through good times, bad times sad times right up until the final whistle in Istanbul. The book is superb - Red All Over.Table of ContentsDepths Of DespairThe Messiah From Glenbuck18 Steps To HeavenHeartbeat Of A CityThe Scouse SixtiesSound That Rocked The World1966 And All ThatThat Scarf Is Somebody's Life28,000 HeadsPaisley, The Champion ManagerA Threesome In Rio: Pele, Ursula Andress And MeTarnished SilverBetter Than The BraziliansDeath In The AfternoonTwilight Of The GodsEagles Over The AztecaBack To The Boot RoomSpaced Out And Star StruckThe French Kopite Comes HomeOur Incredible TrebleCotopaxi 2 Kopites 0 (Match Abandoned)Liverpool Will Not Leave MeFrom Austria To EternityImmortality In Istanbul

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Book SynopsisThe Little Book of Arsenal is a hotshot collection of words of wit and wisdom by and about the managers, players and officials who have passed through the marble halls of Highbury. From Herbert Chapman to the appointment of Freddie Ljungberg as caretaker manager, via the likes of Bertie Mee, George Graham and Arsene Wenger, from one Double to another, and from Ted Drake to Charlie George, Frank McLintock, Liam Brady, Tony Adams, Dennis Bergkamp. Thierry Henry, Jack Wilshere, Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Ozil and Nicolas Pepe, here are more than 170 hot-shot quotations for the avid Gooner. Enjoy the humour and poignancy as The Little Book of Arsenal takes you through the highs and lows of the club''s fortunes on the pitch and savour some great moments. As England Rugby International and broadcaster Stuart Barnes says: ''I did not have a choice, but I am so glad I was born an Arsenal supporter.''

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Book SynopsisTHE FIRST AND ONLY AUTOBIOGRAPHY FROM REAL MADRID GALÁCTICO AND WORLD CUP SUPERSTAR LUKA MODRIC.''Enthralling.'' Oliver Holt, Mail on SundayAwesome' Match Magazine''Solemn, soulful and occasionally romantic' Alyson Rudd, The Times''an illuminating insight into the career of one of the greatest players in the modern game'' Late TackleOn a level with the great midfield players of the last 20 years.' - Sir Alex Ferguson, CBEFor the first time, Real Madrid galáctico and Croatian legend Luka Modric tells the story of his journey from a childhood in his war-torn homeland to becoming a serial UEFA Champions League winner and one of the most celebrated footballers in the world. Regarded as one of the great midfield players of the last 20 years, Luka reveals the difficulties of growing up during the Croatian War of Independence and his beginnings as a footballer.The FIFA World Cup finalist sets the record straight regarding key moments at DinTrade ReviewEnthralling -- Oliver Holt * Mail on Sunday *Awesome * Match *Solemn, soulful and occasionally romantic. -- Alyson Rudd * The Times *A wonderfully talented midfield player who in my opinion is on a level with the great midfield players of the last 20 years. -- Sir Alex FergusonWe played together at Tottenham and Real and I have always considered him a great player and a great guy… When you read his story you will understand how you can succeed in life despite all the difficulties and prejudices towards you. -- Gareth BaleLuka's life and football story is incredible. In this book the readers will be able to see for themselves how much hard work and sacrifice stands behind his fantastic success. Emotions are the baseline of this story. -- MarceloPlaying alongside Luka, I realized very early on what kind of football genius he is. In this book I found out about the difficult path that my great friend had to tread in order to reach the top. Only the strongest of characters can do that. -- Karim BenzemaPlaying with Luka is incredibly fun and I enjoy it. His book recounts how many difficult obstacles he had to go through to become the best in the world. It's an instructive and inspiring story. -- Toni KroosLuka is a wonderful player, talented and responsible. He is a great man as well, always putting the team first. This book makes it perfectly clear how he managed to become the best in the world by staying the same humble guy through and through. -- Raphaël Varane...an illuminating insight into the career of one of the greatest players in the modern game. * Late Tackle *Table of ContentsForeword by Sir Alex Ferguson CBE Foreword by Zvonimir Boban Chapter One Chapter Two Grandpa Luka Exile The School Bell Chapter Three Staying in Zadar My Favourite Coach The Hajduk Disappointment Back to the Ball Chapter Four In the Big City Football Academy The First Loan – Zrinjski The Second Loan – Inter Zaprešic And Love Came Calling That's It The Return of the Champion Chapter Five Ups and Downs at Dinamo The Blazing Renaissance The European Siren Song Chapter Six UEFA Euro 2008 – the Euphoria and Drama Licking Wounds A New Life in London To Catch a Break Fears for Vanja My First Champions League Stormy Seas and Marital Port Chapter Seven Another Summer of Unease The Real Deal Limited Game Time The Turning Point Mother Courage The Uncompromising Mourinho Ciao, Carlo! La Décima The World Cup in Brazil A Season of Injuries El Grande Falling in France Chapter Eight Gloomy Days You Need to Fall Before You Can Fly The Race for the Treble Chapter Nine Preparations for Russia Nigeria Argentina Iceland Denmark Russia England The Final Chapter Ten And the Awards Go To... ...One More Thing Acknowledgements Author Biographies Index

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Book SynopsisFor three extraordinary seasons at Bayern Munich, Martin Perarnau was given total access around the German super club – to its players, its backroom staff, its board members and, above all, to its manager, Pep Guardiola. In the follow-up to his critically acclaimed account of Guardiola’s first full season at Bayern, Pep Confidential, Perarnau now lifts the lid on the Catalan’s whole tenure in Bavaria. Pep Guardiola: The Evolution takes the reader on a journey through three action packed seasons as Bayern smashed domestic records yet struggled to emulate that dominance in Europe, analysing Guardiola’s management style through key moments on and off the field. Perarnau reveals how Guardiola improved as a manager at Bayern despite failing to land the ultimate prize in European football, examines his decision to leave Germany to take up the challenge at Manchester City and how his managerial style will continue to evolve in the Premier League. This is more than the story of three seasons with one of the biggest clubs in the game. It is a portrait and analysis of a manager and the footballing philosophies that have beguiled the world.Trade Review'Perarnau's fascinating follow-up to Pep Confidential, his acclaimed inside portrait of Guardiola's first season at Bayern … [and shows] football's most successful manager is a Swiss Army Knife coach' * Sunday Times *'A hugely informative read' * FourFourTwo Magazine *'Unrivalled access' * The Observer *'Amazing' * Independent *'Perarau's inside access is extraordinary' -- Graham Hunter'Brilliant' -- Jamie Carragher

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Book Synopsis'Access inside the changing room and behind the scenes that any journalist or writer would kill for - Perarnau's insights are astonishing' - Graham Hunter 'Write about everything you see. Be as critical as you like' - Pep Guardiola to Marti Perarnau, summer 2013 Marti Perarnau was given total access to Bayern Munich during season 2013-14. This book represents the first time in the modern era that a writer has got this close to one of the elite teams of world football. At the invitation of Pep Guardiola, he shadowed the Catalan, his staff and his superstar players during training and on matchdays. Bayern smashed domestic records on their way to the double, but were humiliated by Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final. Perarnau was with them every step of the way. Perarnau is with Guardiola as he is courted by the world's greatest clubs during his sabbatical in New York. We hear Guardiola explain in detail the radical tactical moves which transform Bayern's season and reprogramme the players who will win the World Cup with Germany.Perarnau talks exclusively and in fascinating detail with players such as Arjen Robben, Manuel Neuer, Philipp Lahm, Thiago Alcantara and Bastian Schweinsteiger. Pep Confidential is much more than the story of a season - it is also a lasting portrait of one of the greatest coaches in sport. Trade Review 'Extraordinary' -- Hugh MacDonald * Herald *'enthralling stuff' * Irish Examiner *'One of the most influential sports books to be written in years' * Scotland Now *'One of the most influential sports books to be written in years' * Scotland Now *'a fine insight into the strains of management . . . one for the students of the game' * Observer *'This book should be compulsory reading for potential employers and opponents alike' * Independent on Sunday *

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Book SynopsisHow much do you really know about Spurs? Put your knowledge to the test with this bumper book of brainteaser quizzes and fascinating facts, beautifully illustrated by one of the world's leading sports artists. It's packed with trivia on all the great Lilywhites sides and players - from goal-getter Greaves to goal-king Kane, from the pioneering double winners of the 1960s to the Champions League finalists of 2019 - providing hours of highly dippable fun and entertainment. Who scored five goals in one game for England, three of them in just over three minutes, a record that stood for 62 years as the fastest hat-trick in international history? In which 1981 movie did Ossie Ardiles appear alongside Sylvester Stallone? Whose gold medal at the 2018 Asian Games earned him exemption from military service? What was the title of the 1987 single by Glenn Hoddle and Chris Waddle that reached number 12 in the UK charts? Which striker is nicknamed 'Coco'? Trivquiz Tottenham Hotspur holds the answers to all these questions and hundreds more.

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Book SynopsisThe untold story of the most contested fixture in world footballA must read.' Henry Winter''Superb.'' Daniel TaylorLiverpool and Manchester. Two gloriously independent-minded, eclectic, culturally vibrant places. Yet the inhabitants dislike each other with a passion that is visceral. It is a divide that spans generations, across class, gender and ethnicity. And it has grown over the years, largely driven by one thing: football.The dark, malignant loathing shared by the followers of Liverpool and Manchester United has seeped into every aspect of life in the two cities. Football is not a barometer of disdain, as it is in places like Glasgow or Istanbul or Moscow. In northwest England, it is the engine of animosity.How did it come to this? Why did things turn so nasty? And what does it say about the two cities in which the clubs are based?Written by a Scouser and a Manc in a rare collaboration, Red on Red addresses the divide by talking to those involved in ten seminal football matches. ITrade Review‘A great insight into this ancient rivalry, the rants, duels, the reasons… A must read.’ Henry Winter, The Times 'Superb – if you have been brought up on the greatest rivalry in football, you will love this book.'Daniel Taylor, The Athletic ‘Fascinating…a must-read not just for the fans of both of these great clubs but anyone with a passion for football.’John Cross, The Daily Mirror 'White and McNulty’s writing is so astonishingly powerful and vivid. It brings back so many memories – of famous battles on the pitch, and on the streets outside. They capture it all – the noise, the tension, even the smell. The glory and the fear. This isn’t just football history, it’s football literature.' Michael Crick, author of The Boss: The Many Sides of Alex Ferguson ‘Phil McNulty and Jim White have delved into the most ferocious of rivalries. Two clubs. Two winners. The animosity for each other was a natural spin-off from their geographical closeness. As a player, you couldn’t show weakness. The way it should be. Red v Red.’ Jim Beglin, Liverpool and Republic Of Ireland defender Praise for Jim White’s Manchester United: A Biography… ‘A wonderfully entertaining history.’ Sunday Telegraph ‘Championship sportswriting.’ The Guardian ‘Engaging.’ The Independent ‘When historians 1,000 years from now try to fathom the cult of Manchester United Football Club, White will be a good place to start.' Financial Times Praise for Jim White’s You'll Win Nothing With Kids: Fathers, Sons and Football… ‘The Fever Pitch of the junior league.’ Sunday Times ‘A fizzingly funny, sad, thoughtful book.’ Sunday Telegraph ‘Touching, involving and really quite enthralling.’ Daily Telegraph ‘A pleasure to read.’ The Independent

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Book SynopsisSimon Lister is a cricket writer and senior BBC news producer. His first book, Supercat the authorised biography of Clive Lloyd was short-listed for the British Sports Book of the Year award. It was, said the Guardian, beautifully written'. He has been a contributor to the Wisden Cricketers' Almanack and has covered the county game for the Sunday Telegraph. For ten years, his magazine column, Eyewitness, appeared in The Wisden Cricketer and its successor The Cricketer.Trade ReviewI doubt there will be a better book written about this period in West Indies cricket history -- Clive LloydOutstanding... Lister's book works magnificently not just because he tells a great story with unfussy clarity and journalistic rigour but because - like the best sports books - it is not content to stick to sport. -- Richard Whitehead * The Times *A perceptive and comprehensive account that more than cricket knows -- Gideon HaighCalm and fair, but with pace and bounce, the story of the most feared team cricket has ever seen -- Matthew EngelAs near definitive as you could want...expert and knowledgeable -- Danny Kelly * Observer *

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Book SynopsisThe story of Leeds United from 1980 to 2000 when the club crashed and burned and then rose from the ashes to become the last First Division champions, before approaching the Millennium full of expectations for their dynamic young team.Trade Review'This is an absorbing tale of Leeds’ helter-skelter existence over a couple of eventful decades.' -- Sports Journalists Association, October 2023

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Book Synopsis50th anniversary edition of the story of the team that caused the last, great FA Cup upset...''Times have changed but this book is an engrossing reminder for all fans'' INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY''An essential piece of British football history for fans of any club. Brilliantly researched and written with an undisguised passion'' Guy Mowbray, BBC''s Match of the DayToday, it seems inconceivable that a team from the lower reaches of the Championship could beat the likes of Chelsea or Manchester United in the FA Cup Final. Yet, on 5 May 1973 that is exactly what happened. Six months earlier, Bob Stokoe took on an ailing Sunderland team, struggling at the bottom of the second division. But the long road to Wembley sees them beating Arsenal and Manchester City to reach the final, where they face Don Revie''s mighty Leeds United in a game few expect them to win. Yet what lies ninety minutes ahead is the greatest FA Cup Final shock of all time. Sunderland''Trade ReviewTimes have changed but this book is an engrossing reminder for all fans, not just Mackems, of the way it was * INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY *An essential piece of British football history for fans of any club. Brilliantly researched and written with an undisguised passion -- Guy Mowbray * BBC'S MATCH OF THE DAY *The angel is in the detail of such a loving work; you really get to know the players who beat Leeds United at Wembley -- Patrick Barclay * THE TIMES *Through sport, quite ordinary folk can attain heroic status. Lance Hardy's entertaining book shows how it happens * THE JOURNAL *Evoking the atmosphere of a vanished footballing age, this is a fascinating account of a true David and Goliath sporting encounter * SOUTH WALES ARGUS *If you like a fairytale, a story of an underdog or just a great football book, then make sure you pick up this brilliant account * InBedWithMaradona.com *It is, without exaggeration, probably the finest football book that I have ever had the pleasure of reading -- Dan Williams * ROKERREPORT.COM *I very much warmed to a familiar story, given added depth by amusing material, genuine feeling and honest appraisal * WHEN SATURDAY COMES *As essential piece of British football history for fans of any club. Brillaintly researched and written with an undisguised passion. -- Guy Mowbray * BBC's MATCH OF THE DAY *The angel is in the detail of such a loving work; you really get to know the players who beat Leeds United at Wembley. -- Patrick Barclay * TIMES *Times have changed but this book is an engrossing reminder for all fans, not just Mackems, of the way it was. -- Simon Redfern * INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY *Through sport, quite ordinary folk can attain heroic status. Lance Hardy's entertaining book shows how it happens. * THE JOURNAL *Evoking the atmosphere of a vanished footballing age, this is a fascinating account of a true David and Goliath sporting encounter. * SOUTH WALES ARGUS *If you like a fairytale, a story of an underdog or just a great football book, then make sure you pick up this brilliant account. * IN BED WITH MARADONA.COM *It is, without exaggeration, probably the finest football book that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. -- Dan Williams * ROKERREPORT.COM *

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Book SynopsisThe definitive account of Leicester City''s astonishing rise from relegation certainties to Premier League title winners: the greatest achievement in the modern football era.King Power Stadium, countdown to kick off. Out on the pitch a lone brass player sounds the haunting Post Horn Gallop, for 80 years the home players'' entrance tune. Spines tingle. Air is gulped into opposition lungs. Game time, time to begin the chase. Burning fox eyes peer down from between the decks of one of the stands. On the stadium''s outside wall a royal blue LCD display says #Fearless.Welcome to Leicester City. They were always a club with a difference but in 2015-16 they created a story that in modern football stands unique. Who could believe it: from relegation certainties to champions of England? It was when, on behalf of every small club, dreams were hunted at the King Power, a season where the impossible became merely quarry.5,000-1 shots when the campaign started, Lei

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Book SynopsisFully updated to contain Sir Ian McGeechan''s reflections on the 2017 Lions tour to New Zealand. 2017 saw the latest contest between the British Lions and New Zealand - the ultimate rugby clash between the northern and southern hemisphere. Ian McGeechan is the ''Ultimate Lion'', and no one could have done more than McGeechan to promote the magic of the Lions. McGeechan played for the Lions in their unbeaten 1974 tour of South Africa, and again in the 1977 tour of New Zealand. Subsequently he has been the head coach on four Lions tours. In this unique and fascinating book which celebrates the immensity of rugby at the top level, Ian McGeechan uses his own coaching notes to provide his special insight and background into what it means to be a Lion. By looking at various themes such as selection, how to create the right environment and how to build the players into what he describes as ''Test-match animals'' the reader learns how some of the most successf

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Book SynopsisFrom Pascal Gross's fantastic brace at Old Trafford and an unbelievable 5-2 victory over Leicester City, to a 6-0 demolition of Wolves, the 2022-23 campaign is quite possibly Brighton's best ever season. After a fantastic start to the Premier League campaign, Graham Potter left the Seagulls to join Chelsea leaving fans concerned. Enter Roberto De Zerbi. De Zerbi's first win came in a 4-1 thrashing of . . . that's right, Chelsea! Anyone who was at the AMEX that day will never forgot the incredible atmosphere produced by the Brighton faithful. Fast forward a few months and the Seagulls were walking out at Wembley for an FA Cup semi-final. A month later, Brighton had qualified for Europe for the first time in their 122-year history. Tony Noble, a lifelong Brighton fan and season ticket holder, has written The Seagulls Greatest Ever Season, a match-by match account of this amazing campaign. Written with passion, honesty and humour, Tony recalls Alexis Mac Allister's stellar performances during a year in which he became a World champion; Lewis Dunk's inspirational on-pitch leadership; Kauro Mitoma's wizardry down the left-hand side; the emergence of exciting young talent Evan Ferguson, and much more. The Seagulls Greatest Ever Season allows the reader to relive the games, the goals and the glory in what was - the greatest ever season.

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Book SynopsisIf your club wants to attract and retain the best coaches, enthusiastic volunteers and committed team members and raise its game, the C+L+U=B Framework is your path to success.

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Book Synopsis'Genius ... Squires' creativity shines through in this collection - there's simply no one better at what he does.' - Best Football Books of 2019, FourFourTwo***Half-and-half scarves? VARs? England winning penalty shoot-outs?Modern football can be baffling. But if you're contemplating throwing it all in for the simpler pleasures of quantum mechanics, don't despair just yet: help is at hand.In Goalless Draws, David Squires unpicks the modern game with an unmissable selection of his Guardian football cartoons from 2014 to the 2018 World Cup. From the ever-dizzying managerial roundabout to the absurdities of the transfer window, and from the annual tradition of poppygate to the 'stable genius' of José Mourinho, the result is a riotous reminder of all the pitfalls of the modern game, as well as everything that keeps us coming back for more.

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Book SynopsisLiverpool FC: Minute by Minute takes you on a fantastic journey through the Reds' matchday history. Relive all the breathtaking goals, heroic penalty saves, sending offs and other memorable moments in this unique by-the-clock guide. From the Reds' early successes to the glory years of domestic and European dominance, the book covers everything from the Bill Shankly era to the heavy-metal swashbuckling football of Jurgen Klopp's thrilling side. Revisit Liverpool's most spectacular modern feats and learn things you didn't know about the club's glorious past. From goals scored in the opening seconds to those last-gasp extra-time winners that have thrilled generations of fans at Anfield and around the world, Liverpool FC: Minute by Minute is packed with memorable moments. From Keegan to Salah, from Neal to Robertson, from European and Champions League finals to bruising Merseyside derbies, battles with the Manchester giants and incredible goals - the book is filled with thrilling memories from kick-off through to the final whistle.

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Book SynopsisEven the Defeats is the story of how painful moments in Sir Alex Ferguson's early reign inspired him to lead Manchester United to some of their greatest successes. A heavy 5-1 loss at Manchester City in Ferguson's early tenure led pundits and supporters to question the Scot's position, but by the season's end he was holding aloft his first trophy at the club -- the FA Cup. This trend continued when an end-of-season collapse handed Leeds United the league title in the spring of 1992, only to galvanise United to their first championship in 26 years the very next year. From struggles in Europe to winning the treble, from losing the title on goal difference to their city rivals to winning the Premier League in Ferguson's final season in charge - rising from the depths of despair to achieve glory, and using failure to fuel success, was arguably Sir Alex's greatest strength. John Silk brings you the inside story of what made Ferguson tick, with views from players, coaches and other members of staff from the great Scot's reign.

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Book SynopsisChampions Under Lockdown is the third book in the Red Odyssey series. It tells the story of an extraordinary season from the perspective of the terraces. After their epic 2018/19 season, in 2019/20 Jurgen Klopp would target Liverpool's first league title in 30 years. During this unforgettable season his side would smash all records. They claimed the UEFA Super Cup and then the Club World Cup before sailing to a 25-point lead at the top of the Premier League. Fans who thought they had seen it all witnessed arguably the greatest Reds side in history sweep all before them. They were declared champions-elect, but the fates decreed there would be a final barrier to Liverpool claiming their prize. In the midst of a global virus pandemic and with the country on lockdown, voices called for the season to be declared null and void, threatening to wipe the achievements of this incredible team from history. But Jurgen and his men rose again to claim their holy grail. This is the unique story of the champions under lockdown.

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Book SynopsisWhen the final whistle was blown at Upton Park on 10 May 2016, it was more than a football match that had ended. West Ham United's victory over Manchester United was the club's spectacular swansong after 112 years at its spiritual home. The Boleyn's Farewell: West Ham's Final Game at Upton Park delves into one of the club's most historic nights, with insight from players, fans and others who were there. Everything from the atmosphere before the game, Winston Reid's winner and the digitised Bobby Moore switching off the stadium lights, the build-up and aftermath of the game, as well as the on-pitch action are recounted and celebrated within these pages. This was an evening that would come to define a generation and is unforgettable for many West Ham supporters. While the Boleyn Ground no longer stands, memories of the stadium and the Hammers' glorious farewell performance will endure. The Boleyn's Farewell is the definitive account of one of the most significant matches in West Ham's long history.

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Book SynopsisAs modern football legends, the Class of 92 need no introduction. Class of 92: Out of Their League, however, opens a dramatic new chapter in the story of former Manchester United greats Gary and Phil Neville, Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs and Nicky Butt, as they take on a new role in each of their lives: owners of semi-professional club Salford City FC. An enthralling, in-depth account of Salford's first two years under new ownership, Class of 92: Out of Their League combines first-hand accounts from Gary, Phil, Paul, Ryan and Nicky as they try to turn round the club's fortunes, along with a wider story of tremendous athletic and human drama. Featuring colourful characters like managers Anthony Johnson and Bernard Morley, star players, club chairman Karen Baird, lifelong fans, and more, this is a story told with real authenticity and grit. Accompanying the second series of the hugely popular BBC series, Class of 92: Out of Their League is both a testament to the best of modern football and a brilliant reminder, in an era when fans are threatening walkouts over rising ticket prices, of what football is really all about.Trade ReviewA must-read for Salfordians -- Salford Star * Salford Star *An intriguing book that does attempt to lose the hype surrounding the club to give an insight into both the Class of 92 and the plight of the players who find themselves in non-league football. -- Salford Star * Salford Star *

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Book SynopsisThe complete, official history of the England football team as you've never seen it before! England: The Official History is a fascinating account of the world's oldest and most iconic national football team.• Includes England's fantastic performance at EURO 2020. • A great gift for any England fan. • Features more than 250 exceptional photographs of England icons past and present including Alf Ramsey, Bobby Charlton, Gary Lineker, Hope Powell, David Beckham, Steph Houghton and Harry Kane. • The complete story of the England men's and women's teams – from 1872 right up to the present day. • Written by award-winning journalist and author Daniel Storey in association with the FA and filled with incredible stories spanning 150 years of England football.The book charts the highs (and lows) of the England national teams and the men and women who've worn the Three Lions with pride. Each chapter delves into a specific era, covering key figures, famous and infamous matches, and the evolution of football over the course of more than a century and a half.This is the definitive visual history of English Football.Table of ContentsForeword • The dawn of a team (1870s-1890s) • Olympic success (1900s-1910s) • Intra-war years (1920s-1930s) • The full-time era (1940s) • Chastening defeats (1950s) • The march to greatness (1960s) • World Cup 1966 • The fallow years (1970s) • The re-rise of the women's game (1970s) • So near and yet so far (1982-1990) • The impossible job (1990-1994) • Reagan's time (1980s) • Golden generations (1996-2006) • Unfulfilled potential (2006-2016) • Hope springs eternal (1998-2013) • A brighter future (2016-2020) • Appendix: Lions & Lionesses. Plus features on key England figures including Alf Ramsey, Bobby Moore, Hope Powell, David Beckham, Wayne Rooney and more.

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Book SynopsisPlease Don't Take Me Home is the emotional tale of Italian immigrant Simone Abitante's 20-year love affair with Fulham Football Club. After leaving his native country, Simone falls in love with London and its oldest club, embarking on a personal mission to spread the word and get Fulham recognised beyond Britain by as many people as possible. Following the Cottagers through the most successful spell in their modern history, Simone takes his nephews to Craven Cottage where - together with new friends and Whites addicts Jeff, Mark and Ben - they experience unforgettable wins, exhilarating highs and devastating lows, amid rivers of beer, true friendship and an unquenchable passion for the beautiful game. Even after leaving London for Mallorca, Simone keeps following his beloved Fulham, with that famous white jersey serving as a second skin. Played out against a backdrop of heartbreaks, departures and life-changing decisions, Please Don't Take Me Home is a footballing story every fan can relate to.

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Book SynopsisThe quintessential book for Newcastle United fans everywhere, Sky Sports presenter Pete Graves tells the inside story of the Magpies today, using exclusive interviews with Eddie Howe and other club legends.Welcome to Newcastle United, the most exciting football club in the world right now.Since joining the team in 2021, Eddie Howe has been determined to transform Newcastle United from a perennial underachiever into one of the biggest teams in not just the Premier League, but Europe as well. With the players, fans and decision-makers finally all working together, and with the pain of the past behind them, the Magpies are ready for a new era to begin...Telling the story of Newcastle through some of its most competitive moments, including Kevin Keegan and Bobby Robson's stewardships, as well as touching on some of its trickier times, television presenter and diehard fan Pete Graves recaps the team's history and goes inside the club to show what is so exciting about this team today.Featuring interviews with key figures past and present, including Eddie Howe himself, Graves builds a picture of what's happening with Newcastle, both on and off the pitch, as they climb the league and set their sights on silverware.With extensive research and unparalleled access, Here to Compete is the incredible story of a team reborn and the man who is on course to build an empire.

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Book SynopsisWhen the first edition of The Glory Game was published in 1972, it was instantly hailed as the most insightful book about the life of a football club ever published. Hunter Davies was, and still is, the only author ever to be allowed into the inner sanctum of a top-level football team (Tottenham Hotspur) and his pen spared nothing and no one. 'His accuracy is sufficiently uncanny to be embarrassing,' wrote Bob Wilson in the New Statesman. 'Brilliant, vicious, unmerciful,' wrote The Sun. Davies spent a whole season with the team, training with them, visiting the players' homes and witnessing the dressing-room confrontations. In the modern era of painstaking media management and tight security, no sportswriter will ever again be granted such unprecedented access. While some features of the game have changed beyond all recognition - notably the all-consuming role that money now plays - inside every club the dramas and tensions revealed by Davies remain, making the book a timeless classic and securing its position as one of the best books about football ever written.Trade ReviewStill the definitive football text . . . this book is indispensable * FourFourTwo *The Glory Game engages the mind while revealing the soul of the beautiful game * The Herald *Brilliant, anthropological account of life with Tottenham in 1973, before there were press officers and brand managers -- David Goldblatt, author of the World Football Yearbook

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